As summer comes to a close, students at OH have had plenty of new movie and music to keep them entertained. From blockbusters sequels and psychological thrillers to highly anticipated albums, the summer of ’26 has offered a wide range of entertainment.
Cinema Blockbusters
The summer movie season has been especially busy. Table Magazine described 2026 as a “blockbuster summer,” highlighting major theatrical releases such as Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” and Marvel’s “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”
Table Magazine also noted, “This year’s films are well balanced between original content, sequels and a new generation of horror directors coming into their own.”
For some students, the biggest appeal has been the action. OH junior Cameron Moore, an OH junior, saw “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” in theaters with friends. The movie continues Peter Parker’s story following the events of “Spider-Man: No Way Home.”
“I think it was the best one,” Moore said when comparing the movie with previous Spider-Man films.
While Marvel brought audiences to theaters, the hit psychological thriller “Obsession” offered viewers a very different experience. The film centers on a young man who wishes for his crush to fall in love with him, only to discover that his wish has disturbing consequences.
OH freshman Felicia Thomas said the movie stood out because of how unsettling it was.
“It was horrific… I couldn’t sleep after,” Thomas said.
“Obsession” received a 7.8 out of 10 according to IMDB for its unique and unsettling plot.
Music Madness
Movies were not the only major form of entertainment this summer. Music fans also received new albums from several popular artist.
Steve Lacy released his third studio album, Oh yeah?, on Jul. 17. The 10 track album combining elements of alternative, pop, and R&B, made an impact on listeners all around this summer.
Olivia Rodrigo also released her third studio album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love, on Jun. 12. The album includes several major hit songs, one being ‘the cure’, which stood out to Thomas.
“The cure was one that really stood out to me,” Thomas said. She added that Rodrigo’s music “has really impacted society.”
Overall, students had mixed opinions about this summer’s entertainment. Thomas said some releases were impressive while others felt like they were “trying too hard.” S
till, she believes the amount of new media shows that creators are stull continuation to experiment with new ideas.
With major movies filling theaters and new music dominating streaming services, summer ’26 has certainly given students something to watch listen to and discuss and they return to school.
Hello!!! My name is Jia Nair, and I am a sophomore at Oswego High School. It is my first year on the staff 42Fifty. At OHS, I am involved in BIONIC, Youth and Government, Girl Scouts, and Business Professionals of America. I also serve as the president of The Rightfully Project. You can contact me by emailing 42Fifty@sd308.org and putting my name in the subject line. We welcome comments on our articles and feedback on our publication.
