In this article, I have compiled a very short list of independent films coming out later this year with a variety of genres, targeted audiences, and star power. For those who are unfamiliar with the difference between independent films and Hollywood studio films, independent films are basically everything besides Hollywood. There is actually no official criteria that makes an independent film what it is, but as far as this list goes, an independent film is one which did not go through a Hollywood studio or its divisions for both production and distribution. Presented in order by release date, here are my top six independent films coming out later this year.

1. "American Animals"

Release Date: June 1

"American Animals," the comedic docudrama, follows four 20-something boys who attempt a heist, believing themselves to be in a movie. Director Bart Layton makes his "narrative" directorial debut (having made only documentaries prior) with this true crime story. "American Horror Story" fans will recognize Evan Peters familiar face.

2. "Hereditary"

Release Date: June 8

This is a new horror movie from my new favorite production/distribution company, A24 (they have done other films such as "Ex Machina," "Moonlight," "Lady Bird," and many others you may recognize). This movie looks genuinely terrifying, and I am so excited. Even the trailer is incredibly well done and satisfying. It's like a music video nightmare. This is the first A24 film on this list, but it's certainly not the last.

3. "Izzy Gets The F*ck Across Town"

Re-release Date: June 22

She's a hot mess having a breakdown, and so am I. This is a dramedy starring Mackenzie Davis who was in that one "Black Mirror" episode that's actually happy, San Junipero. You know, the lesbian one. It also stars everyone's favorite dead people-seeing boy all grown up, Haley Joel Osment. This originally got a release last June, but I didn't see it then nor did anyone else that wasn't at the LA film festival, so that really doesn't matter.

4. "Eighth Grade"

Release Date: June 22nd

They're baaaack. And the 'them' in question is A24. I told you it was going to be on this list again. This movie is the directorial debut for comedian Bo Burnham, who also wrote the screenplay. I expect it to be excruciatingly real, hilarious, and #deep. I've been counting the days since it's Sundance premiere.

5. "Sorry To Bother You"

Release Date: July 6

Boots Riley, you may know this name from the "Superbad" soundtrack or "The Losers." This movie is his writing and directorial debut and it looks badass. With a cast featuring Lakeith Stanfield, Tessa Thompson, Armie Hammer, Terry Crews, and Patton Oswalt. The trailer looks humorous and vibrant as well as not shying away from its important political themes. I'm excited to see if it's done as well as I hope it is.

6. "Anna and the Apocalypse"

Re-Release Date: December 7

It's one of those high school dramedy zombie musicals from the UK! You know the ones. I imagine this movie will be like the twin sister of "Deathgasm" (available to stream on Netflix). Need I say more? Join Anna as she sings and fights her way to Christmas over the holiday as this film from last year gets a well-deserved re-release!