From mesmerizing horror debuts to reimagined classics, the 2025 cinematic slate is set to deliver a feast for every type of moviegoer. Visionary directors, returning franchises, and inventive reboots all promise audiences a year of stunning visuals, gripping performances, and compelling narratives. Whether rekindling childhood nostalgia or offering bold new twists on beloved characters, these upcoming releases span the full spectrum of genres—ranging from spine-tingling thrillers to cheerful family adventures. Below is an expanded preview of the most anticipated movies coming soon in 2025, each one poised to leave a lasting impression on the silver screen.
JANUARY
Presence (January 17)
Steven Soderbergh has built a reputation for tackling numerous genres, including heist films and medical thrillers. However, Presence is his first complete dive into horror. This movie presents a haunted-house story told from the ghost’s point of view, featuring Lucy Liu and Julia Fox as two individuals who relocate to a house without realizing it already has an unseen occupant. Soderbergh’s distinct style usually involves tight editing and clever storytelling devices. Here, he adds supernatural tension and the growing psychological anxiety that comes with ghosts refusing to rest. Viewers can expect his characteristic suspenseful pacing as he navigates a new, chilling creative space.
Wolf Man (January 17)
Releasing on the same date, Leigh Whannell (director of The Invisible Man (2020 film)) resurrects the classic Universal monster mythos with Wolf Man. Christopher Abbott plays a rural husband who becomes infected by a mysterious creature, while Julia Garner and Matilda Firth round out the isolated family desperately trying to handle his increasingly alarming changes. The film pays homage to the 1941 original, mixing modern horror techniques with traditional creature-feature elements. Whannell emphasizes practical effects, atmospheric tension, and personal drama, making this a film likely to appeal to fans of both retro horror and contemporary thrills.
FEBRUARY
Captain America: Brave New World (February 14)
Anthony Mackie steps into the iconic red, white, and blue suit for the first major Captain America film set after Steve Rogers’s departure. Directed by Julius Onah, this entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe sees Sam Wilson grapple with global upheaval and a variety of looming threats. Harrison Ford portrays the U.S. President, who hides his identity as the Red Hulk. Liv Tyler reprises her role as Betty Ross, while Rosa Salazar debuts as Diamondback. With its emphasis on action, political intrigue, and moral complexity, the film hopes to reinvigorate Marvel’s more grounded storylines.
Paddington in Peru (February 14)
Lovable bear Paddington journeys from his home in England to the Peruvian Amazon. He aims to uncover details about Aunt Lucy’s early life at a retirement home for older bears. Ben Whishaw returns as the voice of the warmhearted, marmalade-obsessed hero, while Emily Mortimer and Hugh Bonneville reprise their roles as the Browns. New faces like Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas join the adventure, contributing to yet another uplifting family film that champions kindness, exploration, and compassion.
MARCH
Mickey 17 (March 7)
Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho, who won an Oscar for Parasite (2019 film), offers a sci-fi narrative starring Robert Pattinson as Mickey, a “disposable” member of a crew colonizing the frozen planet Niflheim. Whenever someone dies on a mission, a new clone is activated, retaining the prior individual’s memories. Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette join the cast, hinting at a potent mix of drama, existential reflection, and interstellar suspense. Bong’s penchant for social commentary and wry humor suggests Mickey 17 will combine personal storytelling with larger questions about humanity’s place in the universe.
Snow White (March 21)
Disney revisits its first animated classic with a new live-action Snow White. Rachel Zegler stars as the gentle princess, and Gal Gadot appears as the wicked Queen. Marc Webb directs, working from a script by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson, which pledges to honor the 1937 film while making necessary modern tweaks. The production will merge classic tunes with original numbers, ensuring both nostalgia and novelty for a broad audience.
APRIL
A Minecraft Movie (April 4)
Director Jared Hess, celebrated for his offbeat comedy Napoleon Dynamite, helms this adaptation of the worldwide gaming phenomenon Minecraft. The storyline employs a mix of animation and live action, centering on Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, and Jack Black, who are drawn into a blocky landscape teeming with creepers and hidden dangers. They must construct elaborate forts, fend off threats, and figure out whether to return to the real world or continue exploring a place where creativity has virtually no limits.
Sinners (April 18)
Ryan Coogler, recognized for directing Creed and Black Panther, delves into darker territory with Sinners. Michael B. Jordan takes on dual roles as twin brothers who come back to their hometown, hoping for a fresh start. Hailee Steinfeld and Wunmi Mosaku costar, playing characters who soon find themselves caught in an ominous conflict linked to local secrets. The film’s grim tone represents a departure for Coogler, who blends personal drama, horror elements, and psychological suspense.
MAY
Thunderbolts (May 2)
Marvel introduces the Thunderbolts, a group of morally ambiguous characters or antiheroes, directed by Jake Schreier. The eclectic team includes Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, David Harbour as Red Guardian, and Wyatt Russell as U.S. Agent. All these figures unite under government orders, though each one carries unresolved issues from their pasts. The screenplay combines comedic friction, large-scale action sequences, and a focus on unconventional heroes tackling threats that standard Avengers might avoid.
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (May 23)
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for a mission centered on preventing a malevolent artificial intelligence from undermining global stability. Despite “Final” appearing in the title, series devotees suspect the saga could continue. Familiar faces—Rebecca Ferguson, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, and Hayley Atwell—feature prominently, alongside newcomers like Holt McCallany and Hannah Waddingham. Elaborate stunts, innovative gadgets, and intense chases remain the franchise’s hallmarks, and this installment looks set to preserve that tradition.
Lilo & Stitch (May 23)
Dean Fleischer Camp, credited with Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, tackles a live-action version of Disney’s 2002 tale about an alien “dog” and his Hawaiian friend. Maia Kealoha debuts as Lilo, a spirited girl longing for connection. Chris Sanders is rumored to reprise his voice as Stitch, while Billy Magnussen and Zach Galifianakis embody alien forces who want to recapture the mischievous experiment. Expect the same humor and heartfelt exploration of family that defined the original, updated for modern audiences.
Karate Kid: Legends (May 30)
Merging the legacy of The Karate Kid and its 2010 reimagining, Karate Kid: Legends features Ralph Macchio returning as Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan reprising Mr. Han. They collaborate to mentor a young student, played by Ben Wang, though their teaching styles frequently clash. Director Jonathan Entwistle infuses the narrative with present-day concerns while maintaining the franchise’s philosophical approach to martial arts, discipline, and personal growth.
JUNE
Ballerina (June 6)
Ana de Armas steps into the John Wick universe, starring as an assassin shaped by the exacting traditions of the Ruska Roma. Keanu Reeves reprises his role as John Wick in a cameo, while Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, and Norman Reedus expand the network of professional killers and affiliates. Viewers can expect impressively choreographed fight scenes, sleek visuals, and the neon-infused style that has come to characterize the John Wick series.
Elio (June 13)
Pixar’s latest feature Elio focuses on an 11-year-old boy who, through an accident, is designated Earth’s ambassador at an alien council. Adrian Molina (screenwriter for Coco) codirects with Domee Shi (Bao and Turning Red). The cast includes Yonas Kibreab, Jameela Jamil, and Zoe Saldaña, and the film aims to blend Pixar’s signature emotional resonance with cosmic whimsy. This intergalactic adventure should appeal to anyone who loves imaginative animation and richly developed characters.
How to Train Your Dragon (June 13)
Fifteen years after the original animation soared into theaters, DreamWorks’ beloved property transitions to live action. Dean DeBlois, who oversaw the animated trilogy, assumes production and writing duties. Mason Thomas stars as Hiccup, a curious Viking who forges an unlikely alliance with Toothless, a rare Night Fury. The film retains the themes of friendship, acceptance, and unity between humans and dragons, promising the same grand scale and heart that endeared the animated series to viewers worldwide.
28 Years Later (June 20)
Danny Boyle and Alex Garland revisit the harrowing universe they established in 28 Days Later. Cillian Murphy reprises his role as Jim, who now must navigate a society still haunted by a raging infection that turns people into relentless aggressors. Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes join the fight for survival, offering a renewed focus on moral ambiguity, communal resilience, and the enduring threat of the lethal “rage virus.” This third installment intensifies the franchise’s eerie mix of near-apocalyptic horror and human-driven drama.
F1 (June 27)
Brad Pitt collaborates with the director of Top Gun: Maverick for a high-octane Formula One drama. Pitt portrays Sonny Hayes, a retired driver coaxed back onto the track to mentor a promising newcomer, played by Damson Idris. Real-life F1 teams and drivers appear, adding authenticity. The narrative investigates the allure of speed, the sacrifices demanded by elite competition, and the complicated mentor-mentee bond in a high-pressure environment.
M3GAN 2.0 (June 27)
The killer android M3GAN returns, dancing her way back to the big screen. Allison Williams and Violet McGraw revisit their roles from the first film, which introduced audiences to an AI doll designed for childcare but corrupted by its own evolving intelligence. Gerard Johnstone directs again, with Akela Cooper providing the script. The sequel plans to escalate both the comedic aspects and the eerie thrills, probing what happens when well-intentioned technology gains too much independence.
JULY
Jurassic World Rebirth (July 2)
Gareth Edwards—recognized for Rogue One and The Creator—takes on the iconic dinosaurs of the Jurassic franchise. Jurassic World Rebirth, set years after dinosaurs freely roamed the Earth, follows Jonathan Bailey, Scarlett Johansson, and Mahershala Ali as they embark on a covert expedition to secure valuable samples for medical purposes. Screenwriter David Koepp, best known for his work on Jurassic Park, reenters the fold. Audiences can expect colossal creatures, pulse-pounding chases, and expanded commentary on how humanity coexists with these prehistoric giants.
Superman (July 11)
James Gunn reimagines the Man of Steel, casting David Corenswet as Clark Kent in a film aiming to refresh the DC Universe. Rachel Brosnahan stars as the ever-determined Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult takes on the role of Lex Luthor. The story leans into Superman’s sense of hope, underscoring his struggle to align his Kryptonian legacy with human values. Gunn’s known skill for mixing humor, heart, and heroic action suggests a fresh tone for this beloved superhero.
The Smurfs Movie (July 18)
Rihanna composes original music and voices Smurfette in this animated musical update to the classic Smurfs. Chris Miller directs an ensemble that includes Nick Offerman, Natasha Lyonne, Daniel Levy, and Billie Lourd. The production modernizes the whimsical essence of the Smurfs while retaining their timeless sense of camaraderie and curiosity. Catchy songs, colorful escapades, and lighthearted morality are set to appeal to young viewers and nostalgic adults alike.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 25)
Marvel’s “First Family” officially joins the MCU under the guidance of director Matt Shakman. Vanessa Kirby plays Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn becomes Johnny Storm, Pedro Pascal steps in as Reed Richards, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach takes on Ben Grimm. Rumors indicate a 1960s setting, offering a retro flair that might differentiate this adaptation from previous attempts. Fans are anxious to see how the Fantastic Four fit into broader cosmic plots and the ever-expanding Marvel tapestry.
AUGUST
Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Film (August 8)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest project remains cloaked in secrecy, though speculation points to a narrative loosely drawn from a Thomas Pynchon novel. Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Alana Haim head the cast, with production reportedly taking place in Northern California. Anderson’s films frequently balance intricate dialogue with in-depth character exploration, so viewers anticipate a layered, visually captivating experience that challenges standard filmmaking tropes.
Freakier Friday (August 8)
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan reunite for a comedic sequel to Freaky Friday. Two decades after their initial body swap, they confront brand-new obstacles involving stepfamilies, in-laws, and unanticipated transformations. The storyline mixes familial bonding, funny misunderstandings, and personal growth, calling back to the 2003 film while adding a contemporary twist. Fans can look forward to heartfelt humor and callbacks that pay homage to the original.
SEPTEMBER
The Bride (September 26)
Maggie Gyllenhaal directs a reinterpretation of Mary Shelley’s famous horror lore, setting it in 1930s Chicago. Christian Bale portrays Frankenstein’s monster, and Jessie Buckley appears as the bride. This locale and period bring a different aesthetic to the well-known narrative, and Gyllenhaal plans to examine themes like loneliness, identity, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in creating life. While preserving gothic overtones, the film updates and humanizes the story for modern audiences.
OCTOBER
Michael (October 3)
Antoine Fuqua tackles the life of Michael Jackson. Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, steps into the role of the King of Pop, adding a genuine familial link. Colman Domingo appears as Joe Jackson, and Miles Teller and other notable performers round out the cast. The biopic aims to probe Jackson’s meteoric rise in music, as well as the controversies that continue to dominate his legacy. Fuqua plans a nuanced portrayal, highlighting the pop icon’s artistry and the complexities that shaped his path.
Tron Ares (October 10)
More than a decade after Tron: Legacy, Disney revisits the digital grid in Tron Ares. Jared Leto stars as Ares, an unpredictable program threatening to cross into the real world. Evan Peters costars, and Jeff Bridges may return as Kevin Flynn. Expect neon environments, rumination on technology’s role in human life, and the signature futuristic aesthetics that turned Tron into a cult phenomenon.
The Black Phone 2 (October 17)
Ethan Hawke’s chilling performance as The Grabber in the original The Black Phone generated considerable acclaim. Now Blumhouse proceeds with a sequel, though plot specifics remain minimal. Director Scott Derrickson and writer C. Robert Cargill plan to enhance the oppressive fear and claustrophobic setting that defined the first movie. Hawke’s involvement is unconfirmed, but his portrayal left a significant mark, so the franchise may expand on that eerie world.
NOVEMBER
Predator: Badlands (November 7)
Dan Trachtenberg revisits the Predator saga after the success of 2022’s Prey. Rumors suggest Elle Fanning as the protagonist, though official details are scarce. The film might alter the Predator’s role, possibly even showing the extraterrestrial hunter in a more heroic light. Regardless, fans can count on high-stakes conflicts and the savage survival elements that define this long-running series.
Bugonia (November 7)
Yorgos Lanthimos, known for The Favourite and Poor Things, embarks on a sci-fi comedy with Bugonia. The plot follows Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons in a story about two men who, convinced their target is an alien bent on destroying Earth, kidnap a prominent CEO. Lanthimos’s trademark fusion of surreal humor and psychological complexity suggests an outlandish journey that playfully questions reality.
The Running Man (November 7)
Edgar Wright directs Glen Powell and Josh Brolin in a modern spin on Stephen King’s futuristic game show concept. While the 1987 Schwarzenegger adaptation is remembered for its campy action, Wright’s signature cinematic flair should introduce a fresh perspective, emphasizing dynamic pacing and clever satire. The central premise—a life-or-death contest for entertainment—remains, resonating with contemporary views on mass media and its effects on society.
Wicked: For Good (November 21)
Following the blockbuster success of part one, Jon M. Chu’s two-part adaptation of the Wicked musical returns with Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Wicked: For Good continues exploring Oz’s political turmoil, culminating in events that tie into The Wizard of Oz. Audiences can expect elaborate staging, memorable songs, and a deeper look into the fateful friendship at the story’s core.
Zootopia 2 (November 26)
Nine years after the animated hit, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde delve into another mystery in Zootopia’s sprawling metropolis. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman reprise their roles, joined by Ke Huy Quan, Shakira, and Fortune Feimster. The plot remains under wraps, but it likely blends comedic interludes, social commentary, and detective-style narratives, continuing the first film’s spirit of collaboration and exploration within a diverse urban setting.
DECEMBER
Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (December 5)
Emma Tammi directs a sequel to the original Five Nights at Freddy’s, which adapted the 2014 video game phenomenon. Josh Hutcherson’s Mike Schmidt returns, along with Elizabeth Lail and Matthew Lillard. The robotic mascots from Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza return, threatening the characters with even more frightening sequences. Fans can expect additional layers of backstory and an increased dose of horror as the story ventures further into the franchise’s mythos.
Avatar: Fire and Ash (December 19)
James Cameron builds on his sprawling sci-fi franchise in Avatar: Fire and Ash. This chapter pivots from the oceanic vistas of The Way of Water to an environment shaped by volcanoes and molten terrain. Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, and Kate Winslet reprise their roles. Recurrent themes of colonial tension, ecological harmony, and global interconnectedness remain crucial, and Cameron’s dedication to groundbreaking visuals promises an immersive experience.
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants (December 19)
Bikini Bottom’s favorite fry cook battles the ghostly threat of the Flying Dutchman. Tom Kenny returns to voice SpongeBob, while Bill Fagerbakke once again plays Patrick. Mark Hamill breathes life into the Dutchman. Loyal fans can anticipate the brand’s signature humor—replete with playful wordplay, offbeat side adventures, and a central message of friendship. This installment intends to continue the show’s legacy of charming simplicity and off-the-wall comedy.
COMING SOON / RELEASE DATES TBA
The Thursday Murder Club
Based on Richard Osman’s bestselling mystery novel, this Netflix adaptation showcases a group of retirees using their wits to crack unsolved cases. Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley, Pierce Brosnan, and Celia Imrie bring their comedic timing and gravitas to the ensemble, directed and written by Chris Columbus. Supporting players include David Tennant, Jonathan Pryce, and Naomi Ackie. Expect witty banter, intriguing red herrings, and a cozy-yet-suspenseful tone that appeals to whodunit fans of all ages.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Rian Johnson continues his murder-mystery anthology with Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc. This third installment, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, features Cailee Spaeny, Kerry Washington, Josh Brolin, Andrew Scott, and a stacked ensemble. The name implies a potentially revived victim or cunning concealment of a body. Johnson’s trademark charm, sardonic dialogue, and labyrinthine puzzles remain intact, ensuring a cerebral and entertaining experience.
Frankenstein
Guillermo del Toro adapts Mary Shelley’s classic for Netflix, enlisting Oscar Isaac as Viktor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his ill-fated creation. Del Toro’s established reputation, evidenced by Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water, suggests a heartfelt take on a misunderstood “monster.” Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz also join the cast. This project’s devotion to layered characters, gothic atmosphere, and introspective themes positions it as a distinct reimagining.
The Woman in Cabin 10
Ruth Ware’s bestselling novel arrives on screen, starring Keira Knightley as Lo, a travel journalist convinced she witnessed someone pushed overboard on a lavish cruise. Hannah Waddingham, Kaya Scodelario, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw round out the cast under Simon Stone’s direction. The psychological thriller leans heavily on isolation and tension, as no one else believes Lo’s account. Its claustrophobic vibe and eerie mysteries recall classic locked-room setups.
RIP
Ben Affleck and Matt Damon team up under Joe Carnahan’s direction for a gritty Miami-based crime tale. Both actors play members of the city’s Tactical Narcotics Team, torn by bureaucratic slowdowns as they investigate the murder of their captain. Carnahan’s track record for combining raw action with moral complexity points to a story rife with suspense and moral crossroads. Affleck and Damon’s on-screen chemistry adds further depth, tapping into their real-life friendship.
Final Thoughts
From the family-friendly charm of Lilo & Stitch and How to Train Your Dragon to the creepy undertones of M3GAN 2.0 and The Black Phone 2, the most anticipated movies of 2025 slate spans multiple genres. Superhero enthusiasts can look forward to Marvel’s Thunderbolts and DC’s new Superman, while mystery buffs can immerse themselves in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery and The Thursday Murder Club. Visionary directors—such as Steven Soderbergh, Paul Thomas Anderson, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Guillermo del Toro—are also stretching their artistic muscles. Whether audiences prefer action-packed set pieces, otherworldly fantasies, musical spectacles, or suspense-filled mysteries, the most anticipated movies of 2025 promise a constant flow of memorable experiences. All release dates and details are subject to change.
