Top 11 Must-See Movies in Theaters for February 2023 - Latest Updates

Directed by Damien Chazelle, BABYLON is set in 1920s Los Angeles and stars Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, and Diego Calva, with a supporting cast including Jovan Adepo, Li Jun Li, and Jean Smart. This epic tale explores ambition and excess, chronicling the rise and fall of several characters amidst the decadent, uncontrollable era of early Hollywood.

In this three-hour Hollywood epic, Chazelle (La La Land, Whiplash) paints a decadent picture of late 1920s Tinseltown, not wasting any time before setting the stage for what's to come. Before the title even appears on the screen, an opening sequence introduces a drug and sex addict in a mansion surrounded by desert, setting up the main characters: Manny Torres (Diego Calva), an aspiring Hollywood dreamer; Nellie LaRoy (Margot Robbie), a rising star with big ambitions; and Jack Conrad (Brad Pitt), a silent film superstar.

From there, Babylon takes viewers on a loud, chaotic ride through the final days of the silent film era, spanning from 1926 to the early 1930s. The film focuses on the tumultuous transition of Hollywood as the talkies take over. But is Los Angeles truly as corrupt and decadent as Babylon portrays?

Release Date: 03/02/2023

Director: Damien Chazelle

Cast: Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Diego Calva, Jean Smart, Jovan Adepo, Li Jun Li

Genre: Comedy, History, Drama

Duration: 188 minutes 37 seconds

A lightning strike causes Captain Brodie's flight to crash on an island controlled by insurgents. What seemed like a mere accident quickly turns into a nightmare as Brodie is forced to team up with a ruthless killer to save the lives of the entire crew.

The story follows Captain Brodie's unstable flight, which crashes onto a remote island. What initially seems like a disaster soon escalates into a fight for survival when Brodie must cooperate with a dangerous criminal to rescue the crew.

The action-packed film Plane Down: Into the Abyss premiered in theaters on 03/02/2023.

Release Date: 03/02/2023

Cast: Gerard Butler, Mike Colter

Director: Jean-François Richet

Genre: Action

Producer: Di Bonaventura Pictures

"First Love Melody" follows the story of two young college students who live in different time periods: Kim Yong, who is from 1999, and Mo-nee, who is from 2022. Both unexpectedly discover an old radio. During the total lunar eclipses in 1999 and 2022, the couple mysteriously communicates across time through the radio, sharing their stories of love and friendship.

The film stars a talented new generation of actors, including Yeo Jin Goo, Cho Yi Hyun, Kim Hye Yoon, Na In Woo, and Bae In Hyuk, and quickly became a major box office hit in South Korea, setting records for the romantic film genre. This film has been a significant hit, particularly with younger audiences, marking a milestone for Korean cinema.

"Ditto" tells the story of two students from Korea University: one in 1999 and one in 2022. Kim Yong, a 1995 mechanical engineering student, and Kim Mu Nee, a 2021 literature student, make an unexpected connection through an old HAM radio. As they develop a deep bond, they share their feelings about love and friendship. But as secrets from the 20-year gap between them are revealed, they are forced to confront emotions they’ve never experienced before.

Directed by Seo Eun Young, known for her work in romantic films like "Overman" (2015), "Ditto" features a strong cast including Kim Jung Hyun and Chae Soo Jin, and the promising young talent of the cast helped make the film one to watch from its first announcements.

Director: Eun-young Seo

Cast: Yi-Hyun Cho, Kim Hye-yoon, Yeo Jin-gu, and more...

Genre: Thriller, Romance

Release Date: 10/02/2023

In the anime "To All the Girls I've Loved Before", Takasaki Koyomi, who lives with his mother after his parents' divorce, is a shy and introverted teenager who struggles to make friends. One day, his classmate Kazune Takigawa approaches him and claims she comes from the 85th parallel world, where they are a couple. This revelation leaves Koyomi confused and curious about whether his alternate self in that world is more confident and charismatic than the one he knows in this reality.

The film, titled "To Every You I’ve Loved Before" in English, explores the concept of parallel worlds. It shares its release date with its counterpart story, which follows the same theme. The original novels, "Boku ga Aishita Subete no Kimi e" and "Kimi o Aishita Hitori no Boku e" by Yomoji Otono, were also released on the same day, June 23, 2016. The movie will hit theaters in Vietnam on February 10, 2023, promising a delightful experience for couples.

The plot revolves around Koyomi Takasaki, a teenager adjusting to his new life after his parents' divorce. Living with his mother, he struggles to connect with others in his new school. But one day, Kazune Takigawa, a classmate, tells him she’s from the 85th parallel world, where they are in a relationship. How will this discovery affect their bond?

Release Date: 10/02/2023

Director: Jun Matsumoto

Cast: Ai Hashimoto, Hio Miyazawa, and more...

Genre: Animation, Mythology, Romance

Duration: 102 minutes

Over a decade ago, Hollywood was rocked by the debut of a group of daring, seductive male dancers in Magic Mike. The low-budget film, directed by Steven Soderbergh with just $7 million, grossed over $160 million and received critical acclaim.

The original creative team behind the first movie, which was praised by both critics and audiences, returns to create another cinematic spectacle. Channing Tatum reprises his role as Mike Lane, with Steven Soderbergh returning as director and Reid Carolin writing the script. Joining Tatum is Salma Hayek Pinault, known for her roles in House of Gucci and Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard.

After a failed business venture leaves Mike bankrupt, he accepts a gig as a bartender at a beach party in Florida. There, he meets a wealthy woman, shares a passionate night together, and receives an offer he cannot refuse. Mike heads to London, along with his talented young dancers, to prepare for one final spectacular show. But what’s the real secret behind the offer Mike accepted? And once he uncovers the truth, will he and his crew be able to pull off the show they’ve poured their hearts into?

The teaser for Magic Mike’s Last Dance hints at sizzling chemistry between Channing Tatum’s stripper and Salma Hayek Pinault in seductive dance routines. True to the spirit of Magic Mike, this final film promises a spectacular celebration of music, dance, and scorching hot male dancers. Even in his 40s, Channing Tatum still exudes charm, proving he’s one of Hollywood’s most desirable leading men.

Steven Soderbergh’s return to the director's chair is a highlight that makes Magic Mike’s Last Dance highly anticipated. From starting the franchise with a modest budget, he turned the 'Magic Mike' brand into a blazing cinematic phenomenon, captivating audiences with irresistible dancers. After the success of the first movie, Magic Mike returned for a sequel in 2015, directed by Gregory Jacobs with Soderbergh handling the artistic direction and editing. The film quickly became a sensation, with 96% of viewers being female during its opening days. The franchise's bold storytelling about seductive dancers has tapped into genuine emotions, making it a perfect film for women, and even for couples.

Romantic, steamy, and filled with emotion, Magic Mike’s Last Dance is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for 2023.

Release Date: 14/02/2023

Director: Steven Soderbergh

Cast: Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek

Genre: Musical, Romance

Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Alongside Hope's parents, they embark on an exploration of the Quantum Realm, where they encounter strange new creatures and dive deeper into the mysteries of this alternate dimension.

The Quantum Realm remains a place full of unanswered questions. Even though Scott Lang / Ant-Man (Paul Rudd) escaped from it in the first film, neither he nor the other characters truly understand how that was possible. However, this event gives Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Hope van Dyne / The Wasp (Evangeline Lilly) hope that they may be able to locate Janet van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer), who has been lost in the Quantum Realm for years.

As for the plot, Ant-Man and the Wasp may not be able to satisfy the pickiest viewers. The storyline and its pacing might not be thrilling enough, and the film lacks intense, edge-of-your-seat moments that require deep focus. However, the film finds balance through its humor, family dynamics, and the smooth flow of events, making it far from boring.

If you're expecting a groundbreaking twist, jaw-dropping moments, or an epic blockbuster, you might be disappointed. However, for Marvel fans who view these films simply as light-hearted entertainment to laugh and enjoy, the movie succeeds in delivering the right emotions without feeling long or tiresome, despite its nearly two-hour runtime.

Release Date: 17/02/2023

Director: Peyton Reed

Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Jonathan Majors

Genre: Action, Adventure

When We Are Twenty-Five follows Tuệ Lâm (Midu), a passionate young artist manager who is dedicated to her music group, The Air. However, an unexpected event derails her plans for the group, and Tuệ Lâm is sent to South Korea for work. After returning, she is determined to revive the first group she ever managed and give them the debut they deserve.

Strong-willed and determined, Tuệ Lâm refuses to give up. After gaining experience in South Korea, she returns and teams up with Hùng (Lê Dương Bảo Lâm) to gather The Air's members and fulfill her promise of a debut. Directed by Luk Vân, the film is meticulously crafted, with careful attention to script, casting, and production, ensuring the project is a labor of love.

When We Are Twenty-Five marks a shift in Luk Vân's filmmaking, moving away from romance-centered stories to focus on the spirit of entrepreneurship and the youthful drive to chase one's dreams. While there are still light romantic elements, the central theme of the film resonates with young viewers eager to pursue their passions and ambitions.

Release Date: 19/02/2023

Cast: Midu, Phú Thịnh, Lê Dương Bảo Lâm, Lãnh Thanh, Him Phạm, Hoàng, Otis Nhật Trường, Tạ Hoàng Long, NSƯT Hữu Châu, Tú Vi, Nam Thư...

Director: Luk Vân

Genre: Drama, Romance
Runtime: 100 minutes

From the creators of SEARCHING comes MISSING! The story begins with Grace (Nia Long) and her boyfriend Kevin Lin (Ken Leung) traveling to Colombia. After losing contact for a few days, her daughter Ali (Storm Reid) is shocked to realize that her mother has mysteriously vanished. Left with no other option, Ali attempts to log into her mother's accounts and social media profiles to search for clues. As she digs deeper, she uncovers dark secrets that Grace had been hiding all along. Ali is overwhelmed with questions. Who were Grace’s social contacts? What is Kevin's true identity? Could he be a criminal involved in her disappearance?

The movie Missing, a psychological thriller from the United States, was released in February 2023, directed by Nick Johnson and Will Merrick, starring Storm Reid, Nia Long, Joaquim de Almeida, Tim Griffin, Daniel Henney, and Amy Landecker. This gripping mystery unfolds as Ali searches for her mother, revealing a web of secrets and lies that lead her to question everything she thought she knew about Grace and Kevin.

Release Date: 24/02/2023

Directors: Nick Johnson, Will Merrick

Cast: Storm Reid, Nia Long, Joaquim de Almeida, Tim Griffin, Daniel Henney, Amy Landecker

Genre: Thriller, Drama

Follow a charming thief and a band of amateur con artists as they pull off an epic heist to recover a lost artifact, but things take a dangerous turn when they accidentally cross paths with the wrong people. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves brings the fantasy world of the iconic role-playing game to life on the big screen with an adventure packed with action, humor, and unexpected twists.

This film is based on the renowned RPG game Dungeons & Dragons, a game that lets players immerse themselves in a fantasy world by taking on the roles of different characters and embarking on thrilling quests. The game has captured the imagination of over 20 million players in the U.S. alone, with the brand generating more than $1 billion in revenue. Unlike other RPG video games like Dark Souls or Diablo, this movie captures the essence of Dungeons & Dragons with its rich storytelling and captivating world-building.

The story follows a group of explorers who must band together to navigate dangerous dungeons and retrieve treasure. However, trust issues arise as they realize they don’t know if they can rely on their new companions during this life-or-death adventure. The film showcases the talents of a skilled cast, ensuring a high-quality performance throughout.

Chris Pine stars in the lead role, a well-known actor recognized for his roles in blockbuster films like Star Trek, Wonder Woman, The Finest Hours, and Unstoppable. His performances have consistently left a lasting impression on audiences.

Although Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a reboot of the 2000 film, which starred Jeremy Irons, Marlon Wayans, and Thora Birch, the original adaptation was poorly received by fans and critics. This new version offers a more refined approach with a fresh setting and higher production value.

Release Date: 03/02/2023

Directors: John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein

Cast: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Regé-Jean Page

Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure

Duration: 100 minutes

The story follows 11-year-old Carrie, who dreams of becoming a social media influencer—a goal all too familiar in today's world. Her dream seems to come true when she encounters an alien named Master, who possesses extraordinary powers. Fleeing from the evil space monster Specter, Master takes refuge on Earth by hiding in Carrie's beloved stuffed bear, Kola. With this transformation, Kola comes to life with incredible powers.

At first, Carrie is skeptical of Master’s choice to take over her toy without permission. The trailer reveals Carrie’s surprise when she discovers Kola can talk and move—who would expect a stuffed bear to come alive like that?

But as Carrie adjusts to the situation, she opens up to her new secret friend. Kola showcases impressive abilities, including flying, moving objects, incredible strength, and intelligence. With Kola’s help, Carrie’s videos quickly go viral, propelling her into the spotlight.

However, Specter won’t let Master escape so easily. One day, Specter discovers Kola and Carrie, and even with Kola’s superpowers, they can’t face Specter’s evil army alone. But there is something Kola, Carrie, and their friends possess that Specter doesn’t: the power of friendship. Thus begins their journey to stop Specter and save the day.

The film has all the makings of a favorite among young audiences. With Kola’s adorable design, the sci-fi alien elements brought by Master and Specter, and the vibrant world seen through Carrie’s rose-tinted view of life, the film is a visual delight. The stunning animation brings action-packed sequences and thrilling battles between the forces of good and evil.

Release Date: 03/02/2023

Directors: Oh Sung Yoon, Lee Chun Baek

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy

Duration: 79 minutes

The Knock at the Cabin follows the Wen family as they vacation in a secluded cabin deep in the woods. Suddenly, they are taken hostage by four armed strangers who demand that the family make an unimaginable choice to prevent the apocalypse. Cut off from the outside world and unable to call for help, the family must decide what they believe is right before it's too late.

Picking up from the initial trailer, this excerpt is filled with tension, a simmering atmosphere, and chilling fear as the small family is thrust into a high-stakes mission. The strangers reveal that they are not there to harm anyone but are simply messengers, tasked with delivering information to save the world—and their loved ones.

To convince the Wen family of the gravity of their mission, the strangers warn them: “With every ‘No’ you say, hundreds of thousands will die.”

Though hard to believe, natural disasters causing mass fatalities are being broadcast on television as the family struggles to escape without making a choice.

The final moments of the trailer leave viewers on edge, with the family—so deeply bonded—forced to endure an emotional battle, facing the terrifying decision of who will sacrifice themselves for the greater good. Time is running out. Every passing second brings more screams and tears as the family’s cherished memories flash before their eyes.

The film becomes even more haunting when Dave Bautista’s character raises an axe, seemingly preparing for execution. Will the family choose to save each other or the fate of humanity?

Release Date: 03/02/2023

Director: M. Night Shyamalan

Cast: Dave Bautista, Ben Aldridge, Rupert Grint, …

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Horror

Duration: 100 minutes