As more and more film releases get pushed back due to COVID-19 protocols, the movie theater and film industry are falling off the charts. Many movies that were supposed to be released in late fall and winter of 2020 have been moved to a time in 2021. 

With this year’s vaccine being mandated, hopefully these films can be released in theaters on the exact date mentioned without them being altered. With that being said, here is a list of movies that countless fans across the world are waiting to see. 

“Respect” 

Originally scheduled to release Dec. 25, 2020, “Respect” stars Jennifer Hudson as the Grammy award winning queen of soul, Aretha Franklin. Directed by Liesl Tommy, this movie follows the life of Franklin and her many accomplishments within her career. It is set to be released in theatres Aug. 13.

“Candyman”

A direct sequel to the 1992 film, “Candyman,” written by “Get Out” screenwriter Jordan Peele, was originally scheduled to release June 12, 2020. This hook wielding killer returns to the city of Chicago and does what he does best; insight fear and engulf them in it. Starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Teyonah Parris, many fans are awaiting this gut-wrenching horror film. It is set to be released in theaters Aug. 27. 

“Black Widow”

As many fans cried during the climax of “Avengers: Endgame” when Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson), aka Black Widow, sacrificed herself for the soul stone, Marvel studios announced a very shocking solo movie arc for Romanoff. Set after “Captain America: Civil War,” Natasha must figure out how to deal with her past life. Being the first movie in “Phase Four” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), many fans are anxiously waiting for its release. It is set to hit theaters May 7. 

“Malcolm & Marie”

With a small budget and strict COVID-19 restrictions, “Malcolm & Marie” is set to stream on Netflix Jan. 29. Directed and written by Sam Levinson, the movie expounds upon the depths of love and what it actually means to be “in love.” Starring Emmy-winning actress Zendaya and Golden Globe nominee John David Washington, this film is another one set to be released soon.

“Judas and the Black Messiah”

Telling the story of the Black Panther Party movement in Chicago, Ill., “Get Out” star, Daniel Kaluuya, stars as Fred Hampton, the chairman of the Black Panther Party in the late 1960s. With many other accoladed actors and actresses listed on the cast such as Lakeith Stanfield and Ashton Sanders, this movie will be one for the awards and nominations. Directed by Shaka King, this movie is set to hit theaters and HBO Max Feb. 12.