Spring and summer movies are coming: What will your family be watching?

These days, there is so much entertainment available on home screens and in movie theaters. Families might not be sure where they want to spend their time and their dollars.

As a founding member of the Pittsburgh Film Critics Association and the director of communications at the Lindsay Theater & Cultural Center in Sewickley, Josh Axelrod thinks a lot about movies. So as we look ahead to spring and summer movies, Kidsburgh sat down with Josh to ask all about what’s coming and what is remaining popular with kids.

Enjoy this conversation…

Kidsburgh: Spring is finally here and summer isn’t far behind. We’re excited to hear what new kid-friendly movies are coming soon. But first: We noticed that “KPop Demon Hunters” got plenty of love at the Oscars. Is that movie and its music still popular with kids and do you think that will continue?

Josh: “KPop Demon Hunters” hit Netflix in June 2025. As of March 20, it’s still in Netflix’s Top 10, and the song “Golden” is still near the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. The film just won two Oscars, a sequel is officially in development and Netflix is reportedly planning a Huntr/x world tour. It’s safe to say that “KPop Demon Hunters” still is very popular among kids and will remain that way for a while.

It’s worth noting that Sony Pictures Animation is on a creative roll with the Spider-Verse films, “The Mitchells vs. The Machines,” “KPop Demon Hunters” and this year’s “GOAT.” The studio has become a major player in the family-friendly animation space.

Kidsburgh: “Hoppers” came out in theaters on March 6 and so far it’s super-popular on Rotten Tomatoes. Any thoughts on it, for families who haven’t seen it yet?

Josh: I adored “Hoppers”! It’s Pixar’s funniest script… possibly ever. The film also showcases the studio’s unmatched ability to deliver levels of emotionality and thematic richness that both kids and adults can appreciate.

There’s a moment in “Hoppers” that made my entire theater gasp and then laugh for 30 seconds straight. When people describe something as “movie magic,” that’s what they’re talking about. You can experience that magic at The Lindsay through Thursday, March 26!

Kidsburgh: It’s almost time for the new Super Mario movie. What can you tell us about it?

Josh: I recently rewatched the first “Super Mario Bros. Movie” and was pleasantly surprised by how fun and heartfelt it remains three years later. The “Super Mario Galaxy Movie” will hopefully continue that trend—seemingly on a grander scale. I’ve been playing Mario games since the Nintendo 64’s heyday, so I’m excited to see Rosalina and Yoshi join the Mushroom Kingdom crew!

The “Super Mario Galaxy Movie” warps into The Lindsay on Wednesday, April 1. Tickets are on sale now, and families can also look forward to a Mario photo-op and sensory-friendly “Mario Galaxy” screening on Saturday, April 11, at 10 a.m.

Kidsburgh: What other movies are coming up soon that families might want to know about?

Josh: “Project Hail Mary” just landed at The Lindsay, and it’s a rollicking space romp that is my favorite 2026 film so far. It’s rated PG-13, and some parts could be a little scary for younger audiences. Teens and preteens should have a blast, while learning valuable lessons about friendship, science and the power of teamwork.

Families have a lot to be excited about at the movies over the next few months. The Lindsay will be the place this summer to watch “The Sheep Detectives” (May 8), “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” (May 22), “Toy Story 5” (June 19), “Minions & Monster” (July 1) and much more!

Kidsburgh: Watching a movie in an air-conditioned theater is an awesome summer experience. For kids who are new to visiting a movie theater or families who don’t go often, what advice would you have if they’ll be doing some movie theater visits this summer?

Josh: Movie theater etiquette really means being respectful to everyone around you. There are year-round courtesies, such as not crinkling candy wrappers during quiet scenes. During the summer, I would highly encourage moviegoers of all ages to keep flip-flops on their feet and practice good hygiene, particularly on sweaty days.

Otherwise, just have fun! Movie theaters allow families to escape into other worlds in a cool, comfortable environment. The Lindsay will be a top spot for families to make lasting memories together this summer!