From 'Moana' to 'Leviticus,' here are summer movie breakouts you need to know

From 'Moana' to 'Leviticus,' here are summer movie breakouts you need to know

From 'Moana' to 'Leviticus,' here are summer movie breakouts you need to know

2026-05-03 21:14:20

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Summer Movie Breakouts 7 Talented Individuals to Watch

As the summer season approaches, it's essential to keep an eye out for the 
next generation of talented individuals making waves in the film industry. 
From the wunderkind filmmaker behind Moana to the Australian heartthrob who
who stole the show at Sundance, we've got you covered with our list of summ
summer movie breakouts.

1. Catherine Lagaʻaia - 'Moana'

At just 20 years old, Catherine Lagaʻaia has already made a name for hersel
herself in the industry. As one of eight children and an Australian native,
native, she grew up surrounded by acting. Her father played Captain Typhoon
Typhoon in the Star Wars prequels, while her siblings are also involved in 
theater. Two of her sisters even auditioned for Moana alongside her. Lagaʻa
Lagaʻaia is acutely aware of the big expectations surrounding the live-acti
live-action film (out July 10) and has them for herself too.

2. Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen - 'Leviticus'

In this Sundance hit, teenage boys Ryan (Stacy Clausen, 21) and Naim (Joe B
Bird, 19) are drawn to each other in their backwater Australian community. 
As the film delves into themes of growing up queer, fear, and love, it's cl
clear that these young actors have a bright future ahead.

3. Kara Young and Mallori Johnson - 'Is God Is'

Aleshea Harris chose these two talented actresses to anchor the big-screen 
adaptation of her Obie-winning play Is God Is. The story centers on twin si
sisters searching for their abusive father, who burned and scarred them as 
babies. As Racine (Kara Young) and Anaia (Mallori Johnson), they bring a dy
dynamic energy to the film.

4. Kane Parsons - 'Backrooms'

At just 20 years old, Kane Parsons was signed to direct his first feature f
film based on his viral YouTube series Backrooms. The concept inspired by a
an internet creepypasta takes audiences on a journey of unnerving and psych
psychological horror.

5. The Bachelors - '72 Hours'

This new Netflix comedy features SNL cast members Kam Patterson, 27, and Be
Ben Marshall, 30, playing Gen Z guys on a bachelor trip. With Marcello Hern
Hernández, groom-to-be Mason Gooding, and middle-aged ad exec Kevin Hart ac
accidentally added to the group chat, this film promises non-stop laughter.
laughter.

6. The New Assistants in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'

Call them the new Emilys! Simone Ashley (31), of Bridgerton fame, plays Mir
Miranda Priestly's first assistant Amari, who screenwriter Aline Brosh McKe
McKenna didn't want to be Emily 2.0. Caleb Hearon (31) is Miranda's second 
assistant Charlie, stuck at his desk all day but loving every minute of it.
it.

7. Helen J Shen - 'Maybe Happy Ending'

After breaking out on stage in Maybe Happy Ending, Helen J Shen (26) makes 
her big-screen debut as Andy's assistant Jin. With a fresh take on the char
character and plenty of wit, Shen brings a youthful energy to the role.

These summer movie breakouts are sure to captivate audiences with their uni
unique perspectives, captivating performances, and unforgettable stories.


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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.

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