Kraven the Hunter Delayed, Karate Kid and They Listen Get New Dates

Sony Shuffles Release Dates

Sony Pictures announces changes to its upcoming film slate, pushing back the release of “Kraven the Hunter” to December 13, 2024, while “Karate Kid” and “They Listen” find new slots.

Sony Pictures’ highly anticipated “Kraven the Hunter” is getting a new release date, moving from its original August slot to December 13, 2024. The decision to delay the film aims to capitalize on the festive season, with plans for screenings in IMAX and premium large formats.

Taking over the initial August date is the psychological thriller “They Listen,” slated to hit theaters on August 30, 2024. The film, a collaboration between Columbia Pictures and Blumhouse, boasts a stellar cast including John Cho, Katherine Waterston, and Havana Rose Liu, among others. Directed by Chris Weitz, “They Listen” promises to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative.

Meanwhile, “Karate Kid” undergoes a schedule shift, moving to May 30, 2025. The move strategically places the release after the conclusion of the sixth season of the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai,” ensuring maximum impact for fans of the franchise.

With a Christmas release now in its sights, Sony positions “Kraven the Hunter” as an R-rated option for audiences seeking a darker cinematic experience. The film delves into the origin story of the Marvel villain, offering insight into his character before his infamous clashes with Spider-Man. Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, alongside a talented ensemble including Ariana DeBose and Russell Crowe, “Kraven the Hunter” is helmed by director J.C. Chandor, with a screenplay by Richard Wenk, Art Marcum, and Matt Holloway.

In addition to the reshuffling, Sony unveils updates for other projects in its pipeline. “Karate Kid” boasts a star-studded cast led by Ben Wang, with familiar faces like Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio returning to the franchise. Directed by Jonathan Entwistle, the film promises to honor the legacy of its predecessors while introducing new elements to captivate audiences.

Looking ahead, Legendary Entertainment’s “Animal Friends” is slated for release on August 15, 2025. The unique blend of live-action and animated characters, featuring talents like Ryan Reynolds and Jason Momoa, promises an unforgettable adventure. Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Peter Atencio, “Animal Friends” is set to redefine the road trip genre with its R-rated antics.

As Sony Pictures continues to refine its release calendar, audiences can anticipate an exciting lineup of films catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.