New Movie Releases This Weekend: 'F1,' 'My Mom Jayne,' and More

As summer draws to a close, a fresh lineup of movies is set to captivate audiences in theaters and on streaming platforms this weekend. The releases include the highly anticipated 'F1: The Movie,' featuring acclaimed actor Brad Pitt, along with 'M3GAN 2.0,' a sequel that ventures into new territory for the popular AI horror franchise. For viewers preferring to stay home, Mariska Hargitay's heartfelt documentary 'My Mom Jayne' and the animated 'The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie' are now available on HBO Max.

This weekend's highlights revolve around four notable films:

1. **F1: The Movie** *Release Date*: June 26, 2025 This film stands out as a cinematic tribute to the adrenaline-fueled world of Formula One racing. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for 'Top Gun: Maverick,' the movie showcases Pitt alongside rising star Damson Idris. The production harnessed the thrills of real racing by incorporating IMAX technology and filming during an actual F1 season. Critics have praised the film for its thrilling race sequences, though some note that its narrative falters under the weight of clichés and a lengthy runtime. According to Stephanie Zacharek, film critic for *Time*, 'F1 is a perfect Brad Pitt vehicle,' highlighting the synergy between the actor and the exhilarating premise (Zacharek, 2025). Conversely, William Bibbiani from *The Wrap* critiqued it as 'limp' and lacking emotional depth, suggesting that the film's pacing suffers when not focused on the races (Bibbiani, 2025).

2. **M3GAN 2.0** *Release Date*: June 26, 2025 The sequel to the original film reimagines the character of M3GAN, an AI doll that becomes a reluctant protector. This installment shifts from horror to a campy adventure, with critics divided on its effectiveness. Kristy Puchko from *Mashable* describes it as a 'horrendous mishmash' that loses the original's charm (Puchko, 2025). On the other hand, Robbie Collins from *The Telegraph* found it 'uproarious,' enjoying the film's embrace of silliness (Collins, 2025).

3. **My Mom Jayne** *Release Date*: June 26, 2025 In an intimate documentary, Mariska Hargitay explores the life of her mother, the late actress Jayne Mansfield. This project reveals personal insights and familial complexities, as Hargitay candidly addresses the myths surrounding her mother’s legacy. Pete Hammond of *Deadline* observes that 'this film is less standard showbiz bio and more Mariska’s effort to uncover the past' (Hammond, 2025).

4. **The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie** *Release Date*: June 26, 2025 This animated feature marks a significant moment for Looney Tunes with its all-animated format, breaking from the tradition of integrating live-action elements. Critics have lauded its nostalgic charm and modern sensibilities. David Ehrlich from *Indiewire* states that the film 'puts a modern spin on a classic formula,' appealing to both children and adults (Ehrlich, 2025).

For those interested in renting or buying, **Pavements**, a meta-documentary about the indie band Pavement, is also available. This film offers a clever mix of biographical storytelling and self-reflection, resonating particularly well with long-time fans.

As the film industry continues to adapt to changing viewer preferences, this weekend's releases illustrate a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and personal storytelling. Each film offers a unique perspective, ensuring that there is something for everyone at the cinema or streaming from home this weekend.