The best films at the cinema this August

China's international film blackout is just about over, so now the Mainland gets to see all the summer blockbusters the rest of the world has already seen, judged, and found... okay. Whether you're after toe-tapping ABBA numbers in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again or Tom Cruise risking his life for our entertainment and money in Mission: Impossible - Fallout, there's sure to be a flick for everyone.

Shoplifters

Image: AOI Promotion

A winner at this year's Cannes Film Festival, Shoplifters follows an impoverished family of five living happily in Tokyo despite needing petty theft to get by. One day, they take in a teenage girl from the street who puts all their choices under scrutiny.

On general release Fri 3.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again

Image: Legendary Entertainment

This sequel to 2008's Mamma Mia! is a nostalgia trip to the '70s, filled with ABBA hits, cheesy dance numbers and simple, happy thoughts. Critics recommend you keep your brain off and enjoy an otherwise pleasing spectacle.

On general release Fri 3.

The Meg

Image: Apelles Entertainment

We know what you're thinking – not another shark movie. Expert sea diver Jonas Taylor (Jason Statham) is on a path of redemption after he has a second chance at taking down the 70-foot long shark that cost him his crew, career and marriage.

On general release Fri 10.

Ant-Man and the Wasp

Image: Marvel Studios

The tiniest Marvel hero may turn out to be the mightiest – or at least that's what is implied by his absence in Avengers: Infinity War. For now, Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) rocks dad life and pines for another adventure. His wish comes true in the form of Hope van Dyne, the Wasp (Evangeline Lily), as they battle against a new enemy.

On general release Fri 24.

Mission: Impossible - Fallout

Image: Bad Robot

Actor Tom Cruise and Director Christopher McQuarrie are back with another Mission Impossible. This time, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team find themselves wanted by assassins and in a race against time. Be prepared for more death-defying stunts and Cruise jumping out of planes.

On general release Thu 30.

Sicario 2: Day of the Soldado

Image: Sony Pictures Entertainment

'Soldado' means 'soldier' but few of the drug-war combatants in this Sicario sequel will be in uniform. Bristling with menace, jaw-clenching tension and heavy weaponry, it should be one thriller to remember. Chinese cinema sites have this film listed for an August release, however, no specific day has been announced.

General release tba.

To check out what's in cinemas now, hit 'Read more'.

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