The past is never truly past in this week’s new movie premieres. From family history to franchise legacy, these five films explore how the events and relationships of yesterday powerfully shape the conflicts of today.
In Ballerina (Starz, today), the entire story is driven by the legacy of a violent past. The protagonist’s quest for vengeance is a direct result of her father’s murder, and her identity as an assassin was forged in a brutal training program rooted in tradition. She is a product of a history she cannot escape.
Karate Kid: Legends (Netflix, Saturday) is a celebration of legacy. The film is built on the foundation of the 40-year history of its franchise. The teachings of Mr. Miyagi and the life lessons of Mr. Han are passed down to a new generation, proving that the legacy of good mentorship is timeless.
The past haunts the protagonist of The Surfer (Hulu, today). His return to a beach from his youth is an attempt to reconnect with a happier time and pass on a legacy to his son. The conflict that erupts is a violent disruption of that legacy, forcing him to confront a harsh and brutal present.
The legacy of the first film looms large in M3GAN 2.0 (Peacock). Gemma must grapple with the consequences of her past creation, and M3GAN’s own history as a rogue killer complicates her new role as a hero. The film is about dealing with the dangerous legacy of one’s own innovations.
In All of You (Apple TV+, tomorrow), the story is shaped by the long legacy of the characters’ friendship. Their shared history, their inside jokes, and their unspoken feelings have all been built over years. This past is the foundation of their present conflict and their potential future.