Things We’re Excited for in 2023 – Part I

Welcome to 2023! As always, we enter the new year looking to expect the unexpected, but it doesn’t hurt to also find excitement in anticipation. After all, we’ve been putting up with being hit with a ton of unpredictability as of late, sometimes it’s nice to know we’ll get something familiar and sure. To celebrate all of the incredible art coming out this year, here is the annual Teenplicity Team “Things We’re Excited for in the New Year” list filled with music, books, video games, television, movies, and more expected to drop in 2023.

Our music, books, and video games list comes tomorrow, but for today enjoy our television and movie picks.

Note: These lists are ordered by scheduled release date given at the time of the post being made and are not completed lists (for in case we get some Beyoncé drops from someone, who knows…). Some dates may be subject to change.

2023 in Television

That ‘90s Show, Season 1 (Netflix)

A spinoff of the wildly successful ‘That ‘70s Show’, this series takes place in the summer of 1995 and follows Leia Forman as she makes friends in Point Place while visiting her grandparents, Red and Kitty Forman. That 90s Show is set to premiere on Netflix on January 19th.

“That ’70s Show is actually one of my top three favorite sitcoms. I’ve rewatched the show countless times and I’ve even watched the forgettable That ’80s Show attempt that was understandably erased from the face of the earth essentially (sorry to Glenn Howerton). So, I was very much intrigued and also worried about what another reboot could bring to the series’ legacy–which…I mean there’s a lot of diciness to the legacy anyway let’s be real. From its final season which I pretend didn’t happen to countless cast controversies. Still, I have no choice but to give this show a chance with open arms because for all I know maybe they learned how to properly reboot the show this time and also…I would just love to have another sitcom that I can laugh at and enjoy. And who knows, maybe this show erases a lot of what season 8 took from me. (It’s not gonna erase the biggest thing because it would require they bring back a certain cast member who definitely should not be around women and children but maybe they can fix the other things, that one is understandable.)” – Brie

“As research for my upcoming interview with Leia Forman herself, Callie Haverda, I have watched the first three episodes of the series. My review for that will have to wait until the embargo lifts but, I will say this: give me all the 90s references. I was born summer of 1995 which makes me feel incredibly old while watching this show but I’m also curious to see what I remember from growing up in the ‘90s with older siblings, and what little gadgets, shows, or terms we used are included throughout the series.” – Mary

American Auto, Season 2 (NBC)

From the creator of Superstore, at the headquarters of a major American automotive company in Detroit, a floundering group of executives try to rediscover the company identity amid a rapidly changing industry. Season 2 of American Auto is set to premiere on NBC on January 24th.

“American Auto was almost like a pleasant surprise when I tuned in at the start of 2022 to watch it. It’s such a fun ensemble and has such an endearing level of chaos to it. X Mayo as Dori is especially a standout for me, literally, everything she says makes me cry laughing. But especially the episode where the characters have to film a car commercial and throughout the entire production shoot they keep making last-minute changes in fear that the commercial isn’t progressive enough but they also don’t want it to come across as pandering or too progressive was genuinely just 22 minutes of me laughing nonstop.” – Brie

YOU, Season 4 (Netflix)

Now in London pretending to be Professor Jonathan Moore, Joe attempts to blend into academia under this new identity, but we know it never goes according to plan. Season 4 of YOU is set to drop the first part of the season on February 9th and the second part March 9th on Netflix.

“Joe Goldberg, you raggedy bitch. Forgive me for cursing but Joe Goldberg, you will never see the pearly gates. Here’s hoping that our girl Love Quinn somehow survived that murder and returns to terrorize that man in the name of women’s wrongs. That’s it, those are my thoughts mostly because I don’t remember much from season 3 and I’m not sure what to expect in season 4 but I do know I’m Love Quinn hive over here. Women’s wrongs matter, they just matter.” – Brie

Bel-Air, Season 2 (Peacock)

A reimagining of the 90’s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Bel-Air is a more dramatic and serious look at the premise of the original series, taking place in a modern-day version of the California city. Season 2 of Bel-Air premieres on Peacock on February 23rd.

“Initially, I was a bit hesitant about this reboot. For starters, the show has an entirely different cast from the original which was a very solid, practically perfect ensemble. But also, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, an essentially perfect sitcom being made in a show where the pitch was, “But what if it were a drama?” of course it’d seem questionable if it could work. But dear reader, I’m here to tell you it does. Partially because it does what most reboots tend to do and that looks at their mistakes and things that don’t hold up anymore and correct them as best they can. Fresh Prince was a pretty perfect sitcom, yes, but it was also a little wishy-washy in how it talked about class sometimes, on this show we get critiques and people calling out Uncle Phil that Black wealth is not Black excellence—a thing the original could allude to but was scared to say. I think this cast is also stellar in honoring their initial characters and the actors that played them while also making their own spin. Plus, I mean, I want Coco Jones in everything so, that’s a bonus.” – Brie

DC’s Titans, Season 4 Part 2 (HBO Max)

The fourth season of the DC Comics series kicked off in late 2022, introducing Mother Mayhem and her child, Sebastian aka Brother Blood. The mid-season finale left fans on the edge of their seat in anticipation of the remaining episodes. Part 2 of season 4 of DC’s Titans currently does not have a return date but is anticipated for early 2023 on HBO Max.

“This season of Titans has been admittedly stronger than their past few seasons which I’m thankful for and at the same time, I miss Kom so much that I need them to be building this plot so they’re on Tamaran so we can see her again. Besides that, we’re getting closer and closer to DickKory and I’ll finally be able to say that I won twice on this show: once with Kom and Connor and again with the OG’s Kory and Dick. Although this season I’m also losing a bit, like this emo!Connor era where it makes me realize Lex Luthor kinda boring idk and losing one of my absolute loves: Jinx…oh trust me Mother Mayhem and Sebastian gon pay for that one. But both sorry to and congrats to Rachel who is definitely about to fight tf outta her brother and momma. Like she gon win it but oh boy surely at the cost of some very expensive therapy.” – Brie

“There is so much to say about this season and I will get to as much as I can think of but first I must say one thing – DickKory. We are literally on the edge of DickKory after they were shelved for two seasons because of ridiculous nonsense. But we are finally getting more of their interactions and the little ways that Dick Grayson is so far gone for Kor’i. The man is down so bad and he’s so obvious. He’s also an idiot because the mid-season finale gave us Kor’i confronting Dick about them both having a vision that includes their (potential) future daughter (Mar’i). I am just so eager for the two of them to cut through the lack of communication and talk things out and finally get together. They understand each other in a way the others don’t and they really complement the other in addition to working well with the other. DickKory aside, I am still mad about the death in the mid-season finale and am curious to see how that’s handled, I really want to know what’s up with Gar and the tree, Rachel’s going to break my heart when they inevitably face Sebastian again, and I’m mad at Connor so we won’t talk about that. Is season four back yet?!” – Mary

Blindspotting, Season 2 (Starz)

Set six months after the events of the film, the series follows Ashley after Miles, her boyfriend and father of their son, is suddenly incarcerated, forcing her to move in with Miles’ mother. Blindspotting currently does not have a premiere date for season 2.

“If you’re like me, you eagerly awaited season 2 of this amazing show to air this year and was given absolutely nothing. It’s fine though, it’s fine, because at least we know the season is coming. Blindspotting immediately became one of my favorite shows the moment I watched the premiere and with every episode, my love for it grew stronger. It’s not only incredibly beautiful and such a homegrown love letter to Oakland, but it’s also very funny and poignant. It bends what a dramedy series can be adding spoken word, rhythm, music, movement, and topics like incarceration taken seriously but honestly. Jasmine Cephas Jones and Benjamin Earl Turner especially deliver performances that honestly, if the show didn’t air on a network that tends to get shut out from the award circuit would’ve definitely been awarded or at least nominated. Anyway, until the new season comes, I hope everyone tunes in to season one so we can hopefully get a season 3.” – Brie

Ahsoka, Season 1 (Disney+)

The live-action series will follow beloved Star Wars character Ahsoka in her adventures, set around the same time as The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett. Ahsoka currently does not have a premiere date set.

“I am the outlier amongst many of my friends in which I think Ahoska dying and staying dead in her duel with Darth Vader in Star Wars Rebels would’ve been the right choice for a multitude of reasons. I absolutely love the character, I’ve loved her story over the years, and it was so great seeing her in the final season of The Clone Wars in 2021. That said, I feel like the character is not allowed to die because she’s Dave Filoni’s baby and it hurts not only the character but Star Wars as a whole. People expect her and other beloved characters to make cameos in every other show and their story no longer serves them but fans. I think fan involvement and passion is great, and I think sometimes fans do have a better idea of what should/shouldn’t be happening, but at the same time, there needs to be a limit and there’s only so much you can listen to their voices. All of that being said, the reason why I am looking forward to this show isn’t even for Ahsoka herself but for the Ghost crew. This, in all honesty, should have been a Star Wars Rebels spinoff series. Ahsoka could’ve made cameos or been a supporting character in that, but this should have 100% been about the Ghost crew. That’s who I’m tuning in for, that’s the story I’m interested in, and I honestly am worried that it won’t be done justice. Which is wild for me to say before for a while, I trust Dave Filoni with practically everything Star Wars creatively. Now I’m second-guessing that a bit as I see the live-action shows become more focused on shoe-horned cameos that actual storytelling. Anyway, my excitement lies with the Ghost crew and the rumored return of Hayden Christensen as Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker (though him interacting with Ahsoka would hold no weight and cheapen their duel in Rebels in my opinion). But I guess this is kind of like Whose Line Is It Anyway? where everything is made up and the points don’t matter!” – Mary

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, Season 4 (Disney+)

Now back at school, some of the East High Wildcats prepare for their Senior year while putting on High School Musical 3: Senior Year as their class production and welcoming the original cast to film High School Musical 4. Season 4 of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series currently does not have a set premiere date.

“Ah my comfort show. When Disney (Plus) first said they were making a High School Musical series that took on the mockumentary format, had humor similar to Glee, and both honored High School Musical while doing its own thing with its very talented original cast, as an HSMCU truther for life, I was sold. This last season I especially loved (not just because I’ve been Team Rina since season one…but I have been and Rinas, we won!!!!!) because it was such a great turning point for so many characters and it also brought us some strong new ones in Jet and Maddox. Taking the time to separate these characters from the pressures of school and put them in a summer camp setting where they could discover themselves there without the expectations they normally experienced gave us the chance to not only see these characters learn more about themselves but also how they want to grow to be and I can’t wait to see those versions of themselves in the new season. I also can’t wait to see Rina do “Can I Have This Dance?”, Frankie and Kourtney do “I Want It All”, Gina take on “Walk Away” (underrated btw!!!!), and Joshua do “Scream” (I know many want Matt doing Scream and I offer the compromise of it being a duet but I just really think it’s made for Joshua, I’m sorry). And of course excited to see our OG wildcats back on the premises.” – Brie

Lessons in Chemistry, Season 1 (Apple TV+)

Pregnant, alone, and fired from her job, Elizabeth’s dreams of being a scientist are put on hold. A single mother, she takes a job as a TV host for a cooking show and proceeds to teach the nation more than just recipes. Lessons in Chemistry currently does not have a set premiere date.

 “Honestly, do I need to say anything other than Brie Larson??? I am so excited to see her act in this, and for it to be a TV show, so there’ll be plenty of content!!! I haven’t read the book the series is based on but I am hoping to prior to the show’s release. Still, the concept seems interesting and I’m intrigued into how everything will play out. Also, it has a mini Kong: Skull Island reunion as the show brings Brie Larson back with her film’s co-star Thomas Mann. This show is already ticking so many boxes for me!” – Mary

Tiana, Season 1 (Disney+)

According to Deadline, the series will follow Tiana as she sets off for a grand adventure as the newly crowned Princess of Maldonia, but a calling to her New Orleans past isn’t far behind. Tiana currently does not have a set premiere date.

“Anyone that knows me and has listened to me talk about career goals knows that I’ve been manifesting at least two things: an animated series about Princess and the Frog and a stage adaptation of Princess and the Frog. Quite literally my dream to work on either one or both. So imagine how I felt finding out I manifested us getting an animated series and unfortunately my name is nowhere near linked to the project. I’m still tuning in though because I’m so excited and I need everyone to finally give Tiana (and Naveen) all the things they deserve. Not only are they some of the best Disney characters, they’re also one of our best Prince and Princess couples and they bring me so much joy. I could go on and on for my excitement about this and how much Princess and the Frog means to me, but it’s basically all said in my 10-year anniversary post I wrote for Teenplicity a few years ago.” – Brie

“The Princess and the Frog is one of my absolute favorite Disney films. It is so beautifully designed and the cast is incredibly talented. Like Disney really got Anika Noni Rose and her jaw-dropping vocal talents to be Tiana. And now Anika Noni Rose will be back, and singing, too!, as Tiana in the long-form animated series. There really is not enough The Princess and the Frog content and I’m so happy to see Disney finally stepping up and delivering on it. Tiana is a wonderful princess and Naveen is one of the best Disney princes they’ve ever had (I’ve written an entire piece on this that one day I will share because it’s true!) and together, they make such a wonderful couple. He gets her to loosen up and enjoy life while she gets him to be serious and concentrated on his goals. They complement each other without becoming dependent on each other, which is so awesome. They deserve a happily ever after and I am so thrilled that we’ll be able to watch it too. Happily ever afters are not boring, especially with such an incredible couple like Tiana and Naveen, and I’m excited to see what else we will learn about them and about Tiana’s New Orleans roots that are reaching for her. Honestly, this is probably the series I’m most excited about of them all. I can’t wait.” – Mary

The Sex Lives of College Girls, Season 3 (HBO Max)

Now done with their first year at Essex, Leighton, Whitney, Bela, and Kimberly and in the midst of everything that happened in the second season, the girls’ future as friends comes into question as they go their own ways for summer break and then return for their second year. The Sex Lives of College Girls currently does not have a set date for Season 3.

“I didn’t grow up watching Sex in the City, but I tuned in every Thursday that there has been a new episode of The Sex Lives of College Girls feeling the way that I imagine folks who were invested in Sex in the City did. Whitney, Leighton, Bela, and Kimberly are truly some of my absolute trainwrecks and one of my favorite things about the show is that the side characters are also complete standouts like give Lila and Jocelyn their things immediately! The wrap-up for season 2 wasn’t exactly my favorite and I feel like a lot of it was rushed but I am glad they get another season because I would’ve been ready to throw hands if the show ended on that note. Also, a third season means another chance for Leighton x Whitney endgame which I’m sure Reneé and Alyah agree with me on.” – Brie

Bridgerton, Season 3 (Netflix)

The third season of the series follows the romance of third son Colin Bridgerton and childhood friend Penelope Featherington. Penelope, giving up on pining after Colin, participates in the marriage mart with great hope of finding a match, but she ends up taking Colin’s help to build her confidence and become an ideal partner. Colin’s plan may be working too well. Season 3 of Bridgerton currently does not have a set release date but is anticipated to release at the end of 2023.

“I have conflicting feelings about this season. Not only is the show skipping Benedict’s story for now (though I am assuming they’re setting that up this season to be followed through in season four or later), but they’re jumping right into the Colin and Penelope romance after the big mess that was created throughout season one and two. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind the coupling and they were cute in the few scenes we’ve gotten of them, especially in season two. But, with that said, I’m not thrilled. Season two really shifted focus off of the romance and gave far too much time to the Featherington family in general so I need a break from them. Especially since they robbed Kate & Anthony of much-needed and desired screen time. Secondly, the mess! Penelope and Eloise just had a big falling out where Eloise realized Penelope was Lady Whistledown. How can they move past the fact that Penelope potentially ruined Eloise in the eyes of society (though I can understand to an extent why she did it) and potentially ruined the Bridgerton family by extension, in addition to the scandal she created out of pettiness in season one instead of talking to Colin directly. I’m struggling to see how the show will bring Penelope through a redemption of sorts in order to make it okay for her and Colin to end up together by the end of the season. Really, my focus going into season three will be on the Bridgerton family in general. What I’m most excited for though is more Kanthony. Kate and Anthony’s chemistry and compatibility are unmatched, it’s absolutely insane. Simone Ashley and Jonathan Bailey are rockstars and every scene between them just sets the screen on fire from how good they are. I cannot wait!” – Mary

Hopeful Renewals:

  • Reboot, Season 2 (Hulu)
  • South Side, Season 4 (HBO Max)
  • Sort Of, Season 3 (HBO Max)

Honorable Mentions:

  • The Last of Us, Season 1 – January 15, 2023 (HBO)
  • The Mandalorian, Season 3 – March 1, 2023 (Disney+)
  • Daisy Jones & the Six, Season 1 – March 3, 2023 (Amazon Prime)
  • Ironheart, Season 1 – 2023 (Disney+)
  • Only Murders in the Building, Season 3 (Hulu)
  • Secret Invasion, Season 1 – 2023 (Disney+)
  • Gen V, Season 1 – 2023 (Amazon Prime)

2023 in Movies

M3GAN

When Gemma (Allison Williams) becomes the unexpected caretaker of her 8-year-old niece, she decides to give the girl an M3GAN prototype as a playmate and protector, a decision that leads to unimaginable consequences. M3GAN is set for a theatrical release January 6th.

“I feel like every year I add a horror movie/thriller/whatever to this list and then tell y’all that I’m not a fan of these kinds of movies, at least watching in public. And yet! Every year I see a trailer for one and I’m like ‘Yes, this is just camp enough that I could do it.’ I’m hilariously excited for this movie. I only need the movie to be as chaotic as the trailer promised us. Like that’s it. And technically, M3gan hasn’t done anything wrong in my book so far. Like she was created to protect that little girl and then folks seem to be playing in her face repeatedly wanting to keep that girl from feeling happy or safe. Personally, I think it’s giving feminist that she is so determined to protect girls. Name another homicidal doll that would have that much heart and dedication to the job. IDK just something to think about it. Also, miss girl has the choreography, she was giving face, she’s giving everything that needs to be given. Meanwhile, the aunt in the movie is the same actress that played Rose in Get Out so I simply have to believe she’s actually the villain, like how in Ex Machina, Ava is clearly the hero and Oscar Issac and Domhnall Gleeson are villains.” – Brie

Shotgun Wedding (Amazon Prime)

Darcy (Jennifer Lopez) and Tom (Josh Duhamel) gather their families for a destination wedding, but the ceremony gets put on hold when the entire wedding party gets taken hostage. Shotgun Wedding premieres on Amazon Prime January 27th.

“If you’re like me, the trailer for this movie popped up on your Twitter timeline and as every second of it passed by you thought, ‘there’s no way this can get MORE chaotic!’ And then it did. And you were like, ‘Okay, I’m sold. I’ll watch.’ I asked for more rom coms and more bonkers comedies to be put out in the world, I just didn’t realize someone would manage to combine the two in the most outrageous way. Also very glad to see JLO going back to her roots of doing rom com movies but this time it doesn’t seem like she’s playing a character that is vaguely supposed to be Italian instead of Latina. Nature is truly healing.” – Brie

Knock at the Cabin

M. Night Shyamalan’s newest horror-mystery follows a young girl and her parents as they are taken hostage while vacationing in a remote cabin in the woods. The strangers demand that they sacrifice one of their family members to prevent the apocalypse. However, they have no way of knowing if what they’re being told is true. Stars Jonathan Groff as Andrew, Ben Aldridge as Eric, Kristen Cui as Wen, Dave Bautista as Leonard, Rupert Grint as Redmond, Nikki Amuka-Bird as Adriene, and more. Knock At the Cabin is set to release February 3rd.

“Listen, I love these kinds of concepts. One of my favorite films (minus its ending) is 10 Cloverfield Lane because of a similar concept, where the main character has to choose between life and death based on the scary statements of a stranger. M. Night Shyamalan has an interesting filmography and I love the psychological aspects that play a large part in a number of his biggest hits. The internal psychological conflict within each of the characters as well as the external conflict within the family has me so hyped. My stomach turns in knots watching the trailer alone so I really can’t wait. Also, Dave Bautista shows up to your door and you’re going to act like you stand a chance against him and he won’t straight up Batista Bomb you out of this life? Nonsense.” – Mary

Creed III

Still dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) is thriving in his career and family life. When Damian (Jonathan Majors), a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy resurfaces after serving time in prison, he’s eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. Creed III is set for a theatrical release March 3rd.

For someone that doesn’t like sports, I do genuinely love a good sports movie. I watched the first Creed on a whim one day when I was bored and became obsessed, enough so that I was excited for the second one which I also enjoyed. A lot of it genuinely for me has to do with my appreciation and love for Ryan Coogler as a filmmaker so for this third installment to be Michael B. Jordan taking the reigns, I’m both interested in seeing his take and also feeling some sadness for him stepping back from directing, however, he’s still involved as both producer and co-writer so we know he’s still involved. This movie also adds Jonathan Majors to the cast which is not only a fantastic casting choice but progresses the agenda that all of us who watched Lovecraft Country has which is that we need to put that man in just about any and everything.” – Brie

Scream 6

This sequel to 2022’s wildly successful reboot of the Scream franchise brings the beloved cast of characters, old and new, out of Woodboro and to New York City. However, this new chapter in their lives quickly turns deadly. Stars Melissa Barrera as Sam Carpenter, Jenna Ortega as Tara Carpenter, Courtney Cox as Gale Weathers, Jasmin Savoy Brown as Mindy Meeks-Martin, Mason Gooding as Chad Meeks-Martin, Hayden Panettiere as Kirby Reed, and more. Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett direct. Scream 6 is set to release March 10th.

“I love the Scream franchise. Seriously, it’s so much fun and the original is a classic that truly is incredible. While Scream 5 did well in some parts, it seriously sacrificed a good script in others in order to shout-out the directors’ friend Rian Johnson and, essentially, beat a dead horse. It also didn’t do justice to its most iconic legacy character of Sidney Prescott. Still, the film was overall enjoyable and had moments that left me shocked. The sixth installment in the franchise will be missing some characters due to their long overdue calling card expiring while others simply were written out (will be missing you, Sidney Prescott!). Still, the cast of newcomers that are returning (including two TEENPLICITY feature stars, Jasmin Savoy Brown and Jenna Ortega) are strong and can hold up the story on their own without the need for legacy character inclusions. Of course, none of them are safe though and it will only be a matter of time before audiences see who makes it out alive. The aspect of this film that I’m most excited about is the return of Kirby Reed. Hayden Panettiere played the character in perfection in Scream 4 and, due to her contract supposedly not allowing her death to be shown on-screen, theories have lasted the test of time that Kirby survived the night’s events. The fifth film confirmed this theory with an easter egg in one shot. Kirby’s story and involvement can add a lot of new interesting and exciting things to the film, as well as further providing a bridge between the different generations of Scream fans. I cannot wait.” – Mary

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

A charming thief and his unlikely adventure companions embark on an epic quest to retrieve a long lost relic. When they run into conflict with the wrong group of people, their adventure goes dangerously awry. Starring Chris Pine as Edgin, Michelle Rodriguez as Holga, Regé-Jean Page as Xenk, Justice Smith as Simon, Sophia Lillis as Doric, Hugh Grant as Forge, and more. John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein direct. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is set to premiere March 31st.

“I know literally nothing about Dungeons & Dragons even after my Semiotics in Pop Culture professor in college made us spend an entire class period playing it for some kind of takeaway that I clearly did not get. However! I did see this trailer when I saw Wakanda Forever and thought it was funny so I’m sure I’ll enjoy this the same way I did Uncharted where because I have no concept or understanding of the game I was literally just vibing the whole time.” – Brie

“Do I know anything about actual Dungeons & Dragons gameplay other than it being/including roleplay? Not really. Do I know how faithful to the gameplay this film will be? No idea. I am still excited though. Chris Pine is such a fun actor to watch and I feel like he’s been doing a lot of dramatic and serious roles recently that we haven’t truly gotten to see Chris Pine enjoying himself on-screen. As I’m sure many other audience members will attest to, it’s enjoyable to watch an actor look like they’re having fun on-screen, and this film looks exactly that. I love action and adventure films, especially when they’re more light-hearted and not so dramatic or stressful, and this fits the bill it seems. I want films that bring joy, that are fun, and that don’t have an impending feeling of doom or a dreadfully dark color scheme. Again, this is delivering exactly what I want to me. The cast looks fantastic and the movie looks enjoyable and easy to follow along with, even for those of us without Dungeons & Dragons knowledge.” – Mary

The Little Mermaid

The 2023 film is a live-action retelling of the Disney classic in which a mermaid trades her beautiful voice in order to experience life on land. Starring Halle Bailey as Ariel alongside Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Javier Bardem as King Triton, Daveed Diggs as Sebastian, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, and more. Directed by Rob Marshall. The Little Mermaid is set for a theatrical release May 26th.

“Listen, y’all knew we were gonna put this movie on our list. Like are you kidding me?! Halle Bailey as Ariel???????? Howard Ashman is in heaven proud and relieved of that casting choice I just know it. While I still think Ursula should’ve been played by either Tituss Burgess or Lizzo, I’ll still try to go into the movie with an open mind for Melissa McCarthy. My biggest hopes with this adaptation though is that it manages to both bring something new to the story to prove that it was needed and at the same time honors a movie/story that Howard was so passionate about and influenced so many people that relate to not only Howard but Ariel as well.” – Brie

“When I was growing up, there were two Disney movies I played on repeat constantly. The first was Mulan and the second was The Little Mermaid. While the former’s live-action take was disappointing, I have faith in this film. Halle Bailey has an incredible singing voice and has already dazzled audiences with just the short teaser trailer. Previous live-action adaptations, with the exception of 2014’s Maleficent and 2015’s Cinderella, have fallen short in breathing new life and fresh energy into beloved stories. The cast for this film seems absolutely stellar (also, I am hopeful for a more than just a cameo from Simone Ashley, rumored to be one of Ariel’s sisters) which is a huge bonus, and the vocal talents they possess will provide, if nothing else, an enjoyable soundtrack. I just hope that the film doesn’t fall into the bland category that some other adaptations have.” – Mary

Spider-man: Across the Spider-Verse

After reuniting with Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfield), Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man (Shamiek Moore) is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. However, when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders. He must soon redefine what it means to be a hero so he can save the people he loves most. Spider-man: Across the Spider-Verse is set for a theatrical release June 2nd.

“Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse I argue is quite literally one of the best comic book movies we’ve ever gotten. I know it won the Oscar for Best Animated Film the year it was eligible, but honestly, it deserved to be nominated for Best Picture considering Green Book took home that award that year. I’m so excited about this sequel and what it adds to the story. Particularly because considering so much of our movie and television industry is doing the best it can to devalue animation, this franchise is proving that there are some things animation can do that live action can’t in terms of storytelling. Live-action superhero movies heavily rely on CGI to tell their story and still, there are limits based solely on what is realistically possible to bring to life in a live setting. Animation gets so much more to play with, it can suspend reality in a way that live action could only wish. But also my excitement for this movie has to do with the absolutely stellar cast they’ve added. This time around, we have Issa Rae, Brian Tyree Henry, and Daniel Kaluuya joining Shamiek Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, and Jack Johnson. I’m extremely excited for performances to be delivered.” – Brie

Barbie

After being expelled from Barbieland for being a less-than-perfect-looking doll, Barbie (Margot Robbie) sets off for the human world to find true happiness. Barbie is set for a theatrical release July 21st.

“For the record, everything is coming up Issa Rae for 2023 and I love to see it! Incredibly deserved and a reminder that she is That Girl! Anyway, within the binary of you’re either a Barbie Girl or Oppenheimer Bro, I’m very much siding with Barbie. It just looks fun and iconic idk. I’m sure Greta Gerwig is plotting some kind of social commentary takeaway for us when we watch but for now, I’m just excited for the campiness and the pink and the fact that nearly everybody and they momma got a cameo in that movie apparently.” – Brie

The Marvels

Not much is known about the highly-anticipated sequel to 2019’s Captain Marvel film, but it is assumed that the film will pick up where Disney+’s Ms. Marvel left off: Kamala Khan and Carol Danvers suddenly switching places without explanation. The film stars Brie Larson as Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau, Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Zawe Ashton, and more. Nia DaCosta directs a script by Megan McDonnell. The Marvels is set for a theatrical release July 28th.

“This movie is going to have so many things that I love; Carol Danvers, Monica Rambeau, Kamala Khan, Samuel L. Jackson just getting to have fun with the girlies, Black women getting to direct…no one will be surprised by the ways in which I cut up come July because of this movie. Apparently, it’s more controversial than I thought to say that you found Captain Marvel good, but as far as origin movies in the MCU go, I genuinely think it’s one of their best. The most heartbreaking thing about it is that unfortunately, there’s no way Carol and Maria can be girlfriends/wives in it because we know that Maria passed away during the blip. Which, by the way, I don’t think we talk enough about how incredibly heartbreaking that is. It’s one of the most heartbreaking things Marvel has done. There’s no way that’s been easy for Monica to process and I hope we get a character that gets an equal opportunity to explore that trauma and see how she responds to carrying the world on her shoulder with that trauma on her back the same way we have characters like Wanda, Tony, and Shuri.” – Brie

“I am a Brie Larson stan first and a Captain Marvel fan second. Seriously though, I really enjoyed Captain Marvel and its use of “Just A Girl” by No Doubt in one of the fight scenes is still just… chef’s kiss. With that said – Marvel is finally giving us more Brie Larson!!!! It’s about time!!!! And on top of that, we’re being treated with her alongside Teyonah, Iman, and Samuel L. Jackson. All four of them portray such fun and interesting characters, and I am seriously looking forward to seeing how they all play off of each other. I am hopeful to see Carol mentoring Kamala, as well as addressing her relationship with Monica and why that has dissolved to nothing good. There are some aspects that I will turn the other way for until confirmation (like Carol apparently having a boyfriend that’s a Prince on another planet???? When she is clearly still mourning the recent loss of her wife, Maria) but nonetheless, I am pumped and ready. I saw Captain Marvel twice in theaters and loved how exciting and invigorating it was and cannot wait to experience The Marvels!” – Mary

Three Men and a Baby

A remake of the 1987 film of the same name where three bachelors suddenly find themselves having to care for a baby, left by one of their girlfriends. Zac Efron is currently attached to the film, with Maurice Marable set to direct the script by Will Reichel. There is no set date currently but Three Men and a Baby is anticipated to be released in 2023 on Disney+. 

“I absolutely forgot about this project until Mary put it on her list but I’m just here to say as soon as I saw Zac Efron on the list I immediately went ‘yes, perfect’ and I just know this is how we get back to doing comedies and then we move onto rom coms. We just went up by a thousand, folks!!!!” – Brie

“Three (assumedly) attractive men taking care of a baby? Sign me up. Could absolutely leave it at that if I wanted to. I love fictional dads, I love fictional pseudo-dads, and I love non-traditional families as well as found families. Literally, the Hallmark Christmas movie I was most excited for this year was Three Wise Men and a Baby. So this remake just ticks off all the boxes for me and like, I don’t even really need to know anything else about it. I’m putting my trust in the casting department to deliver and, on the chance they don’t, for the script to carry us through. If both fail, still be aware that I will be tuning in on day one, ready to rewatch. No shame whatsoever.” – Mary

Honorable Mentions:

  • House Party — January 13th
  • Shazam! Fury of the Gods –- March 17th
    “TEENPLICITY feature star Asher Angel returns in this superhero flick and who are we if not incredibly supportive? Excited to see how the character continues to be explored in this film and to see how much Asher’s talent has continued to grow as well!” – Mary
  • John Wick: Chapter 4 – March 24th
  • Polite Society – April 28th
  • Prom Pact – Expected Spring 2023 (Disney+)
  • Fast X – May 19th
    “Listen… I have still not caught up on all these films but all I need to know is that Brie Larson is in this and you’ve got me signing up already. None of this franchise makes sense anymore but I will be showing up for her!!!!” – Mary
  • Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny – June 30th
  • Meg 2: The Trench – August 4th
    “My birthday. Plus sharks. What more could I ask for?!” – Mary
  • Blue Beetle – August 18th
    “There is not much I expect from Warner Brothers in life, even less I trust them with. But I hope that this movie is well-crafted in a story that does the character justice. I also hope this film isn’t doomed to fail under current leadership nixing everything. Anyway, absolutely adored this character first through ‘Young Justice’ and I can only hope I will adore this one on screen too.”
  • Wonka – December 15th
  • The Color Purple – December 20th

Disclaimer: We do not own any of the pictures used for this post.

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Keep in touch with the Teenplicity Team on TwitterFacebookInstagram, and Tumblr! Or you can directly contact Mary Ayers on Twitter and Tumblr or Brie Garrett on Twitter and Tumblr!

24-year-old Chicagoan and Creative Writing/Television graduate that's always writing, reading, and watching something. Future creator of television and books, co-creator of this website. Follow my Twitter and Tumblr to learn more.

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