Photo: Speed Demon scene
The year isn’t even over yet, and we just can’t wait to have these movies arrive. Making fans develop high interest in upcoming movies is one thing that Hollywood doesn’t fail at, and this time around, we’ve got some titles that are actually worth it. From biopics like “Michael” to horror film’s like “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” and superhero movies like “Superman” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” there is a lot to see. This list has got some of the most anticipated movies that will keep you glued to your screens in 2025.
1. Michael
Biopics are always great movie pieces, and the more exciting thing about “Michael” is that this is no regular biographical film. It is a chronicle of the life and times of the legendary King of Pop, Michael J. Jackson. Directed by popular award-winning director, Antoine Fuqua, the $155 million movie is set to be released on April 18, 2025. Apart from the compelling storyline that the plot promises, “Michael” is packed with some great thespians like Colman Domingo, Nia Long, and Joseph David Jones, among others. In fact, the titular character of ‘Michael Jackson’ will be played by his nephew, Jaafar Jackson who is also a rising entertainer.
2. Superman
With decades of showing heroic action on the screens, the ‘Superman’ character is undoubtedly one of the most beloved in the superheroes world. In 2025, DC Universe is coming to the big screens with the “Superman” film. With Clark Kent bringing his action as the titular character as always, the movie’s cast also includes Rachel Brosnahan, Isabela Merced and Edi Gathegi, among others. Even better is the fact that multiple award-winning director, James Gunn has got his expert skills on this project, and you can trust that it will be nothing short of a blast when it arrives on July 11, 2025.
3. Jurassic World Rebirth
Any production from the Jurassic Park film series always promises to be interesting and full of action. Set to be the newest addition into the already famous franchise. “Jurassic World Rebirth” is coming with force on July 2, 2025. It’s no secret that the film is one of the most anticipated for the coming year. Also, another reason for this is the existing fan love for the franchise which has made more than $6 billion in box mofffice earnings. Seeing top American acts like Scarlett Johansson take the reins for a top secret operation is no doubt enthralling! Directed by Gareth Edwards, this upcoming adventure film also brings in Bridgerton star, Jonathan Bailey, among a host of other skilled actors.
4. The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Walt Disney joins Marvel Studios to bring out this promising installation to add to the long list of productions in the The Fantastic Four film series. Although the last one that was released in 2015 performed below expectation with a little over $160,000,000, the franchise has actually made over $803 million in total. Finally set to be released on July 25, 2025, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is directed by Matt Shakman. The movie’s title might depict some sort of new narrative, but you’re definitely in for something more unique as the production team is bringing a new story to your screens. Expect to see in action actors like Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn and Vanessa Kirby, among others.
5. The Conjuring: Last Rites
Finally, viewers will get to the peak of “The Conjuring” film series, as a fourth installment is set to hit the screens on September 5, 2025. Horror is highly loved in Hollywood, and it’s safe to regard this as one of the greatest franchises in the genre, with a box office collection of over $2 billion. This was against a budget of $208 million. This is no doubt going to be a watch for next summer as the series which began in 2013 will be releasing this as its final film. Directed by Michael Chavez, this finale will feature actors like Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, and Shannon Kook, among others.
6. Mortal Kombat 2
Simon McQuoid’s “Mortal Kombat 2” arrives on October 24, 2025, and we can’t wait. A second installation to the Mortal Kombat franchise, this movie has been in development for about two years. This came after the first film was released in 2021 and made over $84 million in earnings. Also, the production team has brought in a brilliant addition to the existing cast from the first film. So, fans can expect to see new actors like Desmond Chiam, Karl Urban and Adeline Rudolph showing up on the screens.
7. Now You See Me 3
Eight years after the preceding film was released, Bobby Cohen and Kurtzman have finally come out with long-planned “Now You See Me 3.” A super thrilling heist production, this movie is directed by Ruben Fleischer and your favorite actors from the 686 million-dollar film series will be coming back in November 2025! Apart from its star studded cast, the movie’s engrossing plot is another element that makes it highly anticipated. We trust George Richmond to bring the cinematographic magic in as always!
8. Avatar: Fire and Ash
With multiple films already existing in the Avatar franchise, “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is one of the most anticipated on this list. The work is being co-directed by the brilliant and three-time Oscars award winning filmmaker, James Cameron, and it’s easy to tell that it’s going to be worth it. In addition, the film’s release has been delayed for some time, and this has built great suspense among fans who are also expecting the arrival of more additions after the December 19, 2025 release.
9. Captain America: Brave New World
Fans of the ‘Captain America’ are in excitement as the newest addition to the film series will arrive in 2025. As the character, ‘Sam Wilson’ steps into his new role as Captain America, fans will get to watch the actor himself, Anthony Mackie bring all the action to the scenes as the titular character. Alongside him, Dami Ramirez, Israeli’s Shira Haas, and California’s Xosha Roquemore will be seen. With Nigerian director, Julius Onah on board, “Captain America: Brave New World” arrives on February 14, 2025.
10. Minecraft
Jared Hess’s “A Minecraft Movie” has been a long time coming! Ideated about a decade ago, and having been in production for years now, we are finally ready to sit back and watch what Mojang Studios has been cooking. Given Minecraft’s popularity among gamers, the anticipation level of this film adaptation is understandably high. To bring the characters to life, we’ll have the faces of a few actors including Emma Myers, Jack Black, Jason Momoa, and Danielle Brooks pop up on the screens. “A Minecraft Movie” will be released on April 4, 2025.
11. Thunderbolts
With a successful formula of team-based films, Marvel strikes again with “Thunderbolts,” leaving fans in anticipation. Directed by Jack Schrier and written by Eric Pearson, Lee Sung Jin, and Joanna Calo, “Thunderbolts” assembles a ragtag team of anti-heroes, including Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and Wyatt Russell. The film is slated for release on May 2, 2025.
12. Mission: Impossible
Under the direction of Christopher McQuarrie, each movie in the “Mission: Impossible” series has raised the bar for action thrillers. Fans are eager to see Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt push the boundaries of mind-blowing action sequences with an all-star cast, including Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, and Rebecca Ferguson. “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two” will hit theaters on May 23, 2025.
13. Blade
Marvel fans are buzzing about the return of “Blade,” directed by Yann Demange and written by Michael Green and Stacy Osei-Kuffour. The film, expected to release on November 7, 2025, marks Mahershala Ali’s debut as the iconic vampire hunter. With a focus on supernatural elements and horror, “Blade” is poised to be a game-changing addition to the Marvel roster, leaving fans eagerly waiting to see the new twist on this character.
14. Saw XI
Anticipation is high as the horror community looks forward to the gut-wrenching tension of “Saw XI.” Written by Josh Stolberg and Pete Goldfinger, and directed by Kevin Greutert, the film is set to reignite the chilling franchise. Fans also look forward to seeing returning cast members like Tobin Bell, Costas Mandylor, and Shawnee Smith. The release date has been set for September 26, 2025, promising yet another horror-filled experience.
15. Star Wars: A Droid Story
With “Star Wars: A Droid Story,” Lucasfilm Animation and Industrial Light & Magic are collaborating to deliver stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling. The iconic droid duo, Anthony Daniels starring as C-3PO and Ben Burtt providing the voice for R2-D2, are ready to launch fans into a beloved intergalactic universe of droids and rebels. The film is tentatively set to release in 2025, bringing new tales to the Star Wars saga.
16. Tron: Ares
Directed by Garth Davis, “Tron: Ares” is generating excitement for its long-awaited return to the digital universe. Written by Jesse Wigutow and directed by Joachim Rønning, this sequel stars Jared Leto and Greta Lee. Set to release on October 10, 2025, the film promises a deeper exploration of the virtual world first introduced in “Tron” and rebooted with “Tron: Legacy.”
17. Karate Kid
The iconic martial arts franchise returns with a new “Karate Kid” film slated for release on May 30, 2025. Fans are eager to see a reimagining of the classic pop culture touchstone. Directed by Jonathan Entwistle and written by Rob Lieber, the American martial arts drama stars iconic characters like Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio, Ben Wang, and Sadie Stanley.
18. How to Train Your Dragon
The “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy is beloved for its emotional depth, stunning animation, and powerful storytelling. Director Dean DeBlois leads the live-action adaptation with a star-studded cast including Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, and Julian Dennison. Set for release on June 13, 2025, the heartwarming story of a young Viking and his dragon is ready to captivate a new generation.
19. Wicked: Part Two
Fans can’t wait to see the spectacular finale to one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals. Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, “Wicked: Part Two” continues the spellbinding story of Elphaba and Glinda in the land of Oz. With Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande leading the cast, the film is set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025.
20. Sinners
“Sinners,” directed by Ryan Coogler, is one of the most talked-about psychological thrillers of 2025. The intriguing plot, combined with its powerhouse cast, makes this film highly anticipated by fans of gritty, intense drama and horror. Starring Michael B. Jordan and Jack O’Connell, the film explores the complexities of human nature and is expected to release on March 7, 2025.
21. Disney’s Snow White
Disney’s live-action adaptations of its animated classics have drawn significant attention, and “Snow White” is no exception. Directed by Marc Webb and featuring a talented cast led by Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, this reimagined version of the 1937 classic is set to expand its magic on March 21, 2025.
22. F1
Directed by Top Gun: Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski, “F1” is racing into theaters on June 27, 2025, with high anticipation. Starring Brad Pitt and produced by Apple, this film promises a thrilling blend of speed, drama, and behind-the-scenes intrigue from the world of Formula 1 racing.
23. Elio
Following the massive success of “Coco” and “Soul,” Pixar’s “Elio” is set to deliver another emotional adventure. Directed by Domee Shi and Madeline Sharafian, “Elio” is set for release on June 13, 2025, and will feature a unique story of an unlikely hero embarking on an intergalactic journey.
24. The Black Phone 2
“The Black Phone” surprised audiences with its supernatural horror and psychological tension, and the sequel “The Black Phone 2” is expected to build on that success. Directed by Scott Derrickson and written by Joe Hill, the film is slated for release on October 17, 2025, with Ethan Hawke reprising his chilling villain role.
25. Zootopia
“Zootopia 2” is making a highly anticipated comeback, with directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush returning to bring fans back to the bustling animal metropolis. Expected to release on November 26, 2025, the sequel will feature beloved characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, offering more witty, heartwarming adventures.
26. 28 Years Later
After the commercial success of the previous films, fans have been clamoring for the next installment, “28 Years Later.” Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, this film is expected to be a gripping, survival-driven story set to release on June 20, 2025. Starring Cillian Murphy, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Jack O’Connell, it’s sure to thrill audiences.
27. M3GAN 2.0
“M3GAN” became an instant hit for its eerie AI-driven horror and dark humor. The sequel, “M3GAN 2.0,” directed by Gerard Johnstone and written by Akela Cooper, will take the AI horror story to the next level. Set to release on June 27, 2025, it will see the return of Allison Williams and Violet McGraw, making it even more intriguing.
28. The Smurfs Movie
The “Smurfs” franchise has a long history of captivating audiences with its whimsical characters and family-friendly adventures. Directed by Chris Miller, this animated reboot is scheduled for release on July 18, 2025, and promises a fresh, fun-filled adventure for all ages with an exciting voice cast led by Rihanna and vibrant animation.
29. Wolfman
There’s heightened interest among fans in seeing how “Wolfman” modernizes the iconic werewolf tale. Directed by Leigh Whannell and starring Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner, the film is slated to release on January 17, 2025, and horror fans are eager to witness this contemporary spin on the classic story.
30. Ballerina
A spin-off from the successful John Wick universe, “Ballerina” is highly anticipated as it promises to deliver the action-packed scenes that made the original series a fan favorite. Directed by Len Wiseman and starring Ana de Armas and Gabriel Byrne, the action thriller is scheduled to release on June 6, 2025.
