With an abundance of highly-anticipated films, 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for movie lovers. From the return of beloved franchises and iconic characters to new stories from visionary directors, the year’s slate promises a little something for everyone. Here are the top 10 most anticipated movies of 2025.
1. Avatar: Fire and Ash
After the massive success of Avatar: The Way of Water, James Cameron takes us back to Pandora with the third installment of his epic saga. As the title suggests, this film is rumored to take the Sully family to a new, volcanic region of Pandora, introducing us to a new, fire-based Na’vi clan. Expect breathtaking visuals, a darker tone, and a story that continues to expand the world of Pandora in spectacular fashion.
2. The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Fantastic Four finally makes its highly-anticipated debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With a cast led by Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, this film is set to introduce a new generation to Marvel’s first family. Fans are eager to see how director Matt Shakman brings their origin story to life and integrates them into the larger MCU.
3. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Rian Johnson’s third installment in the Knives Out series is coming to Netflix, and it’s already shrouded in mystery. Daniel Craig returns as the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc, and he’s joined by an incredible ensemble cast including Cailee Spaeny and Glenn Close. With a new murder to solve and a fresh, intriguing title, this film promises to be another delightful whodunit.
4. Wicked: For Good
The long-awaited conclusion to the two-part film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, Wicked: For Good promises to be a spectacular finale. With Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this film will explore the consequences of their choices and delve deeper into the magical world of Oz. Fans are ready to see the epic conclusion to their story and hear their favorite songs on the big screen.
5. Superman
James Gunn’s Superman is set to kick off a new era for the DC Universe. With David Corenswet in the lead role and a script by Gunn himself, this film is one of the most talked-about superhero movies in years. It will focus on Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing, offering a fresh take on the iconic character.
6. The Smashing Machine
This highly-anticipated biopic stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film is expected to be a raw and emotional portrayal of Kerr’s struggles with addiction and his battle for redemption in the world of professional fighting. Johnson’s dramatic turn and Safdie’s gritty directing style have made this a must-see for film fans.
7. The Running Man
Edgar Wright’s remake of the classic Stephen King novel and ’80s action film is generating a lot of buzz. Starring Glen Powell, the film is set to take a fresh approach to the dystopian story of a man forced to participate in a televised manhunt. With Wright’s unique visual style and Powell’s charismatic presence, this film has the potential to be a sci-fi blockbuster with a sharp satirical edge.
8. A Big Bold Beautiful Journey
This film has a star-studded cast including Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, and it’s the third feature from director Kogonada. Described as a romantic fantasy, the film is expected to deliver a beautiful, character-driven story with a touch of magic. Kogonada’s previous work, including After Yang, has earned him a reputation for creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant films.
9. The Conjuring: Last Rites
The latest installment in the hugely successful horror franchise, The Conjuring: Last Rites promises to be the scariest one yet. With Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga returning as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, the film is set to bring a new chapter of terror to the big screen, drawing in fans of the entire Conjuring universe.
10. 28 Years Later
Danny Boyle returns to the zombie genre with a new film set nearly three decades after the original. This highly anticipated horror sequel promises to explore a world that has been living with the consequences of the outbreak for years. With Boyle’s signature gritty style and an intriguing premise, this film is sure to be one of the most talked-about horror releases of the year.
