32 Movies We Can’t Wait to See in 2025

2025 has kicked off, and it’s already giving us chills. The looming specter of potential political turmoil is casting a gloomy pall over the New Year, reminiscent of another tyrant from history, the ominous Nosferatu. If this year’s films don’t measure up to the real-life terror, it won’t be for lack of effort. A cursory glance at the release schedule reveals a horror buffet, brimming with vampires, werewolves, spirits, extraterrestrials, zombies, witches, and not one but two adaptations of Frankenstein set to grace our screens over the following 12 months. It seems like Halloween has come early in 2025 – it’s become a constant theme throughout the year.

Apart from fear, there’s a sense of anticipation hanging in the air, especially for movie enthusiasts. In the coming months, there are plenty of reasons to feel a glimmer of hope. Beyond the haunting displays of terror, both real and fictional, there’s excitement brewing about returning to the cinemas. The sequel to “Parasite”! The comeback of Superman! An epic IMAX film from Paul Thomas Anderson! The reunion of Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan! Two new projects from Steven Soderbergh! More “Avatar”, more “Tron”, more “Mission: Impossible”! All scheduled for 2025. Isn’t it about time we had something to look forward to?

In focusing mainly on films with confirmed, albeit tentative release dates, we’ve given more attention to Hollywood productions that typically secure their release slots well in advance. As of now, many of the most exciting films for 2025 haven’t locked down a specific month or holiday yet. To get a broader idea of what 2025 might offer, check out the bottom of the preview where you’ll find the most awaited movies of the year that could potentially release this year. These films may serve as an escape from tough times or perhaps even help us grapple with our worries about the current state of affairs. Yes, there seems to be something ominous approaching. But then again, there’s also the upcoming film titled “Wicked”.

January

Wolf Man

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=kAw4PH2IQgo

Instead of requiring a Dark Universe, an unsuccessful effort to create an Avengers-style franchise for Universal Monsters led to the creation of a standalone thriller in 2020: Elizabeth Moss’s chilling film “The Invisible Man,” which transformed the transparent antagonist into a contemporary tech-savvy stalker. Leigh Whannell, the writer and director of that movie, is back with another classic monster update – Christopher Abbott portrays a family man who develops an unsettling furriness after a full moon encounter at his childhood home in the upcoming film “Poor Things.” The special effects team reportedly studied various werewolf landmarks to perfect the design of the werewolf, but it’s Whannell’s hints about troubling films such as “Amour” and “The Fly” that have us eager for “Wolf Man.” (In theaters January 17.)

Presence

In a new departure for filmmaker Steven Soderbergh, known for Ocean’s Eleven, is diving into the horror genre for the first time. Collaborating once again with screenwriter David Koepp, who penned his gripping techno-thriller Kimi, Soderbergh presents a chilling haunted house tale but from an unexpected angle – that of the haunter! The entire film is narrated from a supernatural first-person point of view. Presence, which premiered at Sundance last year and was praised as one of Soderbergh’s best works in years by Vulture’s correspondent, hits theaters soon. However, fans won’t have to wait long as his next project, the Koepp-scripted spy thriller Black Bag, is set to release just two months later in March (opening in theaters on January 24).

Also premiering in January

➼ The Condemned (now showing in theaters)
➼ The Final Republican (now showing in theaters)
➼ The Creature Among Us (now showing in theaters)
➼ Den of Thieves 2: Panther (hitting theaters on January 10)
➼ Diane Warren: Unyielding (hitting theaters on January 10)
➼ Some Days Like These (now showing in theaters from January 17)
➼ Back to Action (streaming on Netflix from January 17)
➼ Alarm (now showing in theaters and available on VOD from January 17)
➼ Keeping a Watchful Eye (now showing in theaters from January 17)
➼ Still Here (now showing in theaters from January 17)
➼ Flight Risk (now showing in theaters from January 24)
➼ Inheritance (now showing in theaters from January 24)
➼ The Colors Within Us (now showing in theaters from January 24)
➼ Grafted (streaming on Shudder from January 24)
➼ Brave the Night (now showing in theaters from January 24)
➼ Scream on a Boat (now showing in theaters from January 24)
➼ You’re Formal Invited (streaming on Prime Video from January 30)
➼ Companion (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ Man’s Best Friend (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ Love Me Again (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ Valiant One (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ My Soul, My Son (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ Like Father, Like Son (now showing in theaters from January 31)
➼ My Own Marcello (now showing in theaters from January 31)

February

Captain America: Brave New World

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=1pHDWnXmK7Y

As a movie critic, I must confess that I have always found the Captain America series to be one of Marvel’s most fulfilling tales within their expansive universe of superheroes. With Steve Rogers passing on his mantle and shield, does this winning streak continue for our new Cap, Sam Wilson? The first of this year’s three MCU blockbusters, set to hit theaters on February 14th, finds Anthony Mackie’s newly appointed Captain embroiled in another intricate conspiracy, this time unfolding against the political landscape of Washington D.C., our nation’s capital. Rumors of extensive reshoots may cast a shadow, but here’s hoping for a film that unleashes Harrison Ford in his most primal form – an enraged colossus. His classic Hulk-like grouchiness should provide plenty of amusement during the upcoming press tour.

Paddington in Peru

In a time of darkness, the beloved computer-generated bear with a heart of gold and an endless love for marmalade is back, spreading kindness. This time, directed by Dougal Wilson instead of Paul King, the third escapade of Michael Bond’s adorable storybook creation promises to bring lighthearted charm. However, it may disappoint some viewers as it appears to send Paddington back to his original home in the Peruvian jungle – a wish that might resonate with certain anti-immigrant groups. For those who loved Paddington 2, there’s some skepticism about this third installment from critic David Ehrlich. (Opens in theaters on February 14.)

The Monkey

As a fan and collaborator with the director behind “Longlegs”, the writer of “The Shining,” and the producer of the “Conjuring” series, I’m excited to share an intriguing reason for you to clear out that old box of stuffed animals in your attic. If the chilling pedigree doesn’t give you goosebumps, then you might be next – just like the unfortunate victims of The Monkey, a vintage toy that claims a new life every time its haunted cymbals clash together. Stephen King’s original short story is one of his most terrifying creations. With Oz Perkins at the helm, audiences may find themselves as white-knuckled and petrified as Nicolas Cage was in Perkins’ last horror movie production (In theaters February 21).

Also premiering in February

➼ Somewhat Expecting (on Netflix February 5)

➼ Starry-Eyed (in theaters February 7)

➼ Love Causes Pain (in theaters February 7)

➼ Bring Down These Walls (in theaters February 7)

➼ From Led Zeppelin to Stardom (in theaters February 7)

➼ No Other Home (in theaters February 7)

t Neapolitan Mermaid (in theaters February 7)

➼ Bridget Jones: Obsessed with Love (on Peacock February 13)

➼ Verona’s Romeo and Juliet: A New Adaptation (in theaters February 14)

➼ Universal Tongue (in theaters February 14)

➼ The Grand Canyon (on Apple TV+ February 14)

➼ The Indestructible Boy (in theaters February 21)

➼ The Haunted Ones (in theaters February 21)

➼ Cleaning Up (in theaters February 21)

➼ The Gaze (in theaters February 21)

➼ The Day the Earth Exploded: A Looney Tunes Movie (in theaters February 28)

➼ The Legend of Ochi (in theaters February 28)

➼ Last Respirations (in theaters February 28)

➼ My Late Friend Zoe (in theaters February 28)

➼ Lost in the Wilderness (in theaters February 28)

March

Mickey 17

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=osYpGSz_0i4

2024 seems poised to be the year of multiple roles, as Michael B. Jordan prepares to juggle two characters in “Sinners” and Elle Fanning is set to portray twins in a fresh “Predator” sequel. However, before that double act takes center stage, Robert Pattinson will don the challenging mantle of clashing clones in Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming sci-fi dark comedy. Known for his inventive storytelling and following the success of the global phenomenon “Parasite,” this film is an adaptation of an Edward Ashton novel, with class struggle potentially serving as a significant theme. The film has been shuffled around the release calendar and delayed in postproduction by Warner Bros., which seems odd given its potential. Yet, it’s not surprising that David Zaslav, one of Hollywood’s least visionary executives, would view such a significant cinematic event as a potential box-office risk. (In theaters March 7).

The Woman in the Yard

Outside of directing Liam Neeson in various transport systems, Spanish-American director Jaume Collet-Serra is known for creating B-movie style horror films such as “The Shallows” and the suspenseful thriller “Orphan”. Not much information has been released about his upcoming Blumhouse project, but it’s confirmed that he will work with Danielle Deadwyler again (who played a memorable role in Collet-Serra’s recent movie, “Carry-On”). The story revolves around a family being tormented by a woman in black who makes threatening gestures from their front yard. With Collet-Serra at the helm and Pawel Pogorzelski handling cinematography, audiences can expect intense suspense. (Releasing in theaters on March 28.)

Also premiering in March

1. Night of the Zoopocalypse – The Great Guinea Fowl Uprising (in theaters March 7)
2. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl – Transforming into a Guinea Fowl (in theaters March 7)
3. Black Bag – The Mysterious Black Satchel (in theaters March 14)
4. Novocaine – Pain Relief (in theaters March 14)
5. Opus – Masterpiece (in theaters March 14)
6. The Electric State – E-State Chronicles (on Netflix March 14)
7. Snow White – The Charming Snow Maiden (in theaters March 21)
8. Alto Knights – Skyward Warriors (in theaters March 21)
9. Ash – Charcoal Remains (in theaters March 21)
10. The Friend – My Best Pal (in theaters March 21)
11. Magazine Dreams – Magical Periodicals (in theaters March 21)
12. Grand Tour – Worldwide Journey (in theaters March 28)
13. A Working Man – Blue-Collar Hero (in theaters March 28)

April

Sinners

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=bKGxHflevuk

Nearly every collaboration between Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler brings new life to a popular Hollywood series. Now, these talented duo are swapping Wakanda and the boxing arena for an innovative concept: a Depression-era vampire tale centered around twin brothers (portrayed by Jordan), who return to their Southern roots, uncovering something dark and dangerous in the process. The specifics of the plot are being kept secret; it’s uncertain whether Jordan’s characters are the vampires themselves or if they’re battling them with fangs, guns, and grit. Regardless, the intriguing preview carries the powerful and visually captivating tone that we’ve grown accustomed to from this dynamic movie-making team. (Set to hit theaters on April 18.)

The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection

In simpler terms, the article is stating that Mel Gibson, a controversial Hollywood actor and director, who has faced backlash for his inappropriate comments, has another movie coming out this month called “Flight Risk” starring Mark Wahlberg. However, what’s more intriguing is the rumored sequel to his 2004 hit, “The Passion of the Christ,” titled “Resurrection.” It’s uncertain when this film will be released or if it’s already in production. Given Gibson’s controversial reputation, people are curious about how he might portray the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Some speculate that it could resemble a revenge thriller featuring Jesus as the protagonist. (Set to release on April 18th.)

Also premiering in April

1. I’m thrilled to share that the Minecraft film will grace the big screen on April 4!

2. The Amateur is set to premiere in theaters on April 11, and I can hardly wait!

3. Don’t miss Drop hitting theaters on April 11 – it promises to be a fantastic watch!

4. Sneaks will be in theaters on April 18, and I’ve heard great things about it!

5. The Wedding Banquet is coming to theaters on April 18, and I can’t wait to experience it!

6. Get ready for The Accountant 2, hitting theaters on April 25 – it’s going to be a sequel not to miss!

7. Until Dawn will premiere in theaters on April 25, and I’m counting down the days until I can see it!

May

A Big Bold Beautiful Journey

After achieving success with one of the greatest films ever made (“Barbie”), what would be the next move for Margot Robbie? Two years later, she takes on a leading role in a film being referred to as a romantic fantasy about two individuals linked by an extraordinary adventure. Although details are scarce, if Margot’s involvement doesn’t pique your interest, this intriguing movie also teams her up with Colin Farrell. Furthermore, it has been directed by Kogonada, a talented former video essayist who created “Columbus” and the science fiction drama “After Yang,” featuring Colin Farrell. Like Margot’s previous character (Barbie with a soul), we are left wondering what this film will bring. (Release date: May 9).

Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=NOhDyUmT9z0

In the wake of the slightly underperforming and rebranded finale of “Dead Reckoning – Part One”, Tom Cruise’s relentless character Ethan Hunt is back to thwart an apocalyptic self-governing algorithm. Contrary to its ominous new title, “The Final Reckoning” is not expected to be the last “Mission: Impossible”. Thankfully so, as this espionage series continues to deliver nearly unmatched blockbuster excitement, even three decades into its run. This eighth installment promises yet another opportunity to witness Cruise pushing his aging-yet-ageless body to the limit with a fresh dose of death-defying stunts – a spectacle as thrilling as his iconic grin, which never loses its appeal. (In theaters May 23.)

The Life of Chuck

Fear not, timid souls: Despite being based on a Stephen King novella, this metaphysical festival darling hails from a softer, more curious aspect of the author’s renowned creativity; it’s closer to The Green Mile than The Shining. Starring Tom Hiddleston, this reality-bending triptych explores themes ranging from the end of the universe to the delight of dancing freely. Written and directed by Mike Flanagan, who previously adapted another seemingly unfilmable King story after Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, the film was awarded the prestigious Audience Award at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Only those who can stomach fortune-cookie wisdom and Nick Offerman voice-over narration are encouraged to watch. (In theaters May 30.)

Also premiering in May

➼ Thunderbolts* (hitting theaters on May 2)

➼ Golden (opening in theaters on May 9)

➼ The Clown in the Cornfield (premiering in theaters on May 9)

➼ Final Destination: Bloodlines (arriving in theaters on May 16)

➼ Rush Tomorrow (in theaters on May 16)

➼ Lilo & Stitch (coming to theaters on May 23)

➼ The Karate Kid: Legends (debuting in theaters on May 30)

June

Elio

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=8ocanbiSyV4

Although Pixar’s golden era may have passed, the studio that nurtured Woody and Buzz still occasionally produces remarkable films. Their latest production is an exciting prospect, telling the story of a young boy who accidentally rockets into space, encounters a league of planets resembling a Federation, and assumes the role of Earth’s official ambassador. This film boasts some creative minds behind it, having worked on recent Pixar favorites like “Coco” and “Turning Red.” With Disney potentially taking time to release another original movie, this fresh adventure for Elio, though modest, could stand out more prominently before the next Toy Story sequel, and amidst a year filled with live-action adaptations of classic animated movies (set to hit theaters on June 13).

28 Years Later

After spending over two decades in development limbo, the long-dormant “28 Days Later” franchise will be resurrected, with director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland teaming up once more for a follow-up to their groundbreaking digital video zombie film. Cillian Murphy reprises his role from the first installment, but the rest of the cast appears to be fresh faces in the post-apocalyptic England landscape, including Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. (Opens in theaters on June 20.)

F1

As a cinephile, I find myself swapping the thrill of soaring through the skies in a fighter jet for the adrenaline rush of speeding around a race track with the upcoming movie, Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski at the helm. This time, the seat of the aging legend is filled by none other than Tom Cruise’s former screen partner and co-star from Interview with the Vampire, Brad Pitt, who portrays a seasoned F1 driver stepping out of retirement to mentor a promising newcomer (Damson Idris). Will the world of Formula One racing be able to match the box office success of Top Gun: Maverick, or will Pitt’s charisma and Kosinski’s skill for capturing high-speed metal machines in action, along with a talented crew including Claudio Miranda and Hans Zimmer, be enough to draw crowds? (Hitting theaters June 27.)

Also premiering in June

1. “John Wick: Ballerina” is set to premiere in theaters on June 6.
2. “How to Train Your Dragon” will be released in theaters on June 13.
3. The sequel to “M3gan”, titled “M3gan 2.0”, is scheduled for release in theaters on June 27.

July

Superman

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=uhUht6vAsMY

In a fresh take, James Gunn, formerly of Marvel, introduces a new DC universe in his film titled “Man of Steel” starring David Corenswet as Superman. Unlike previous portrayals by Henry Cavill, this version seems less brooding and more light-hearted. The cast includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and a CGI super dog named Krypto. This reboot appears to be moving away from the dark tone of the Snyderverse and leaning towards the optimistic vibe reminiscent of the Christopher Reeve Superman films. The familiar John Williams score used in promotions hints at a revival of the inspiring spirit these classic movies evoked. Fans of the heroic Superman will be pleased to know that Gunn has drawn inspiration from Grant Morrison’s lively “All-Star Superman” comic series for this movie, which is set to hit theaters on July 11.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Will the fourth attempt be successful for the Fantastic Four? Marvel’s original family has had a challenging and rocky journey, only now joining the MCU after three unsuccessful cinematic adaptations of the team. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach from “The Bear” have courageously taken on the task of reviving these poorly translated superheroes for a new audience. However, there may be a glimmer of hope! The movie directed by Matt Shakman, who also directed WandaVision, features a retro-futuristic setting – hinted at in some appealingly 1960s-inspired marketing artwork – which could bring a fun, nostalgic charm to this rather dreary cinematic universe. And even if nothing else is impressive, First Steps will boast an unforgettable villain: the planet-devouring cosmic deity Galactus. (Releasing in theaters on July 25).

Also premiering in July

➼ “Jurassic World: Reborn” (releasing on July 2)

➼ “The Smurfs Film” (hitting theatres on July 18)

➼ “I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie” (opening in theatres on July 18)

August

The Naked Gun

In this modern twist, the zany antics of Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker are revitalized! Liam Neeson steps into the shoes of Frank Drebin Jr., a character rumored to be the offspring of Leslie Nielsen’s bumbling detective from the brief-lived show Police Squad! and its subsequent films. On paper, this casting seems brilliant – it offers Neeson an opportunity to mock his own action hero image, while potentially resurrecting Nielsen’s invaluable deadpan humor amidst escalating absurdity. It’s also a bonus that their names are similar, adding another layer of humor. Here’s hoping the creative team, consisting of one third of the Lonely Island and the creator of Family Guy, focuses on the witty, joke-a-minute style of ZAZ, rather than the weak parody humor seen in movies like Scary Movie, Date Movie, and others. (Coming to theaters August 1.)

The Battle of Baktan Cross

Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming movie is creating a lot of buzz, especially since it carries a staggering $140 million budget – the highest he has ever received for one of his films. There’s speculation that this film could be an adaptation of “Vineland” by Thomas Pynchon, following Anderson’s adaptation of “Inherent Vice,” another work by Pynchon. While details are scarce, we do know that the movie will feature Imax-worthy action scenes and boasts a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, Sean Penn, and Alana Haim, who recently worked with Anderson in “Licorice Pizza.” However, keep in mind that the title and release date might change before reaching theaters, as is common with Anderson’s projects, and there are rumors suggesting a possible delay to 2026. (Originally scheduled for a theater release on August 8.)

Nobody 2

After finishing “Better Call Saul,” fans can now look forward to seeing more of Bob Odenkirk in the return of his character Hutch Mansell from the movie “Nobody.” This 2021 film, a grittier take on the controversial “Death Wish” concept, was an enjoyable mix of brutality and fun, largely due to Odenkirk’s captivating portrayal and intense action sequences. There’s every indication that the sequel will deliver more of the same thrilling entertainment, possibly even surpassing the original in terms of guilty pleasure. This is because it also marks the first English-language project for Timo Tjahjanto, a renowned Indonesian director known for his violent and gripping action film “The Night Comes For Us.” (Opens in theaters on August 15.)

Also premiering in August

➼ The Sequel to “The Bad Guys” (hitting theaters on August 1)

➼ “Beneath the Storm” (opening in theaters on August 1)

➼ “A More Frightening Friday” (arriving in theaters on August 8)

➼ “Mercy” (in theaters from August 15)

September

The Conjuring: Last Rites

In a chilling neighborhood, an unusual occurrence has arisen. Who am I turning to in such circumstances? None other than Ed and Lorraine Warren! Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga will once again embody the intrepid paranormal investigators in the fourth installment of this questionable “fact-based” horror series, titled Last Rites. The previous film, The Devil Made Me Do It, seemed to falter compared to the first two, so let’s hope that director Michael Chaves can improve upon that and recapture the thrilling, jump-scare magic of James Wan’s original. Last Rites is rumored to be the final chapter in this Conjuring series—though if you believe that, then perhaps you might also believe the discredited tales spun by the real Warrens. (In theaters September 5.)

The Bride

Enthusiasts of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”, get ready! While Guillermo del Toro works diligently on a sumptuous Netflix adaptation titled “The Modern Prometheus”, Maggie Gyllenhaal, the actress turned director, has followed her film “The Lost Daughter” with a musical retelling of “Bride of Frankenstein”. Jessie Buckley assumes the role of the title character and Christian Bale takes on the Monster. The stellar cast also includes Penélope Cruz, Annette Bening, John Magaro, Gyllenhaal’s husband, Peter Sarsgaard, and her brother, Jake. With a budget reportedly reaching $100 million, this production is an ambitious endeavor. Notably, Jonny Greenwood is composing the music, which makes us eager to stand in line at the laboratory (opening in theaters on September 26).

Also premiering in September

1. “Downton Abbey 3” is set to hit theaters on September 12.

2. “Him” will be released in theaters on September 19.

3. “Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie” will premiere in theaters on September 26.

October

Roofman

It’s great to see Channing Tatum back on screen, especially after his brief appearance as a fictional master thief in Deadpool & Wolverine. Now, he takes on a more substantial role as Jeffrey Allen Manchester, a former Army Reserves soldier who, in the mid-2000s, pulled off a series of McDonald’s robberies by accessing them from the roof. If you’re not into true crime, Roofman also signifies the long-awaited comeback of Derek Cianfrance, the director behind The Place Beyond the Pines and Blue Valentine. He’s gathered an impressive ensemble cast for his first film in nine years, featuring Kirsten Dunst, LaKeith Stanfield, Peter Dinklage, Ben Mendelsohn, and Juno Temple. (In theaters October 3).

Tron: Ares

Tron: Legacy, released back in 2010, was one of Hollywood’s effective strategies to rekindle interest among contemporary viewers in an ’80s icon, so it came as a shock that another visit to Disney’s neon digital world took another 15 years – nearly double the gap between the original Tron and its sequel. Directed by Joachim Rønning (Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales), this long-awaited third installment welcomes Jeff Bridges back to the mainframe, alongside a fresh cast that includes Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Evan Peters, and Jodie Turner-Smith. Unfortunately, Daft Punk won’t be providing the music for this film. However, fans can look forward to Nine Inch Nails stepping up to fill their shoes. (Opens in theaters on October 10.)

Good Fortune

In a turn of events, I, Aziz Ansari, recover from the halt of my first feature directorial venture, “Being Mortal,” following allegations against lead actor Bill Murray for inappropriate behavior on set. Now, I’m back with an innovative new comedy, where Keanu Reeves plays a guardian angel who loses his wings due to a misguided attempt to demonstrate that wealth doesn’t guarantee happiness. In the film, which I wrote and directed, my character encounters a series of problems that mysteriously vanish after swapping lives with my wealthy boss, portrayed by Seth Rogen. This appears to be a blend of “Trading Places” and “It’s a Wonderful Life,” offering a tantalizing mix of laughter from the mind behind “Master of None.” (Hitting theaters October 17.)

Also premiering in October

➼ Michael (releasing on October 3)

➼ Animal Friends (releasing on October 10)

➼ The Black Phone: Sequel (releasing on October 17)

➼ Mortal Kombat: Next Chapter (releasing on October 24)

November

Predator: Badlands

Last time director Dan Trachtenberg explored the Predator universe, he created an engaging prequel set in the 1700s featuring a Comanche hunter facing off against the advanced interstellar Predator. Now, Trachtenberg is pushing boundaries with Prey, a fresh take on the franchise: a Predator-centric movie! Some might wonder how this will resonate, but those craving human representation can look forward to Elle Fanning playing twin Earthling characters. (Opens in theaters November 7.)

The Running Man

On the same day that the latest Predator film premieres in cinemas, a fresh interpretation of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1987 vehicle is also on offer. While not a direct remake of the Arnold action flick, it is a new interpretation based on its original source material – the Stephen King novel about a futuristic game show where contestants battle for their survival. In this adaptation, heartthrob Glen Powell, best known from hit movies like Top Gun: Maverick and Twisters, takes on the role previously occupied by Schwarzenegger. However, the real attraction lies behind the camera – director Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz, Baby Driver), whose dynamic shooting style could bring an exciting twist to a movie about America’s fascination with violent and competitive reality TV. (In theaters November 7.)

Bugonia

Emma Stone and director Yorgos Lanthimos have formed a successful collaboration, with Lanthimos drawing impressive unconventionality from Stone on multiple occasions, such as in ‘Poor Things’, for which she won an Oscar. Their newest project is a remake of a South Korean comedy that revolves around a conspiracy theorist (Jesse Plemons, working again with Lanthimos and Stone after their collaboration in ‘Kinds of Kindness’ last year) who abducts a wealthy CEO (Stone) whom he believes is actually an alien disguised as a human. The outlandish plot should entice viewers, while the partnership between these two creative minds promises to be one of the most fulfilling since Martin Scorsese discovered Robert De Niro’s range. (In theaters on November 7.)

Wicked: For Good

As a movie enthusiast, let me share my thoughts on Jon M. Chu’s captivating spectacle, “Wicked”, the enchanting prequel to “The Wizard of Oz”. This musical masterpiece has resonated with audiences and critics alike, much like the conclusion of “Avengers: Endgame”. The anticipation for the climax of this two-part blockbuster is palpable, even among those with mixed feelings about this extended origin story. I can’t help but feel a sense of curiosity to unravel Elphaba’s (played brilliantly by Cynthia Erivo) tragic villain journey. However, it’s unfortunate that the show leans heavily on its musical numbers; there seems to be no “Popular” waiting in the wings for Chu’s upcoming finale. (Hitting theaters November 21.)

Also premiering in November

➼ Now You See Me 3 (in theaters November 14)
➼ Zootopia 2 (in theaters November 26)

December

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Approaching any announced release date for the next Avatar film should be taken with a pinch of salt, given its history. However, the phenomenal success of The Way of Water in 2022 has transformed the idea of an entire Avatar franchise from improbable to reality. Filmed alongside the second installment, Fire and Ash is set to continue the Sully family’s story, and given Cameron’s track record, it will likely push the boundaries of visual effects to new, unforeseen heights. Could Jim Cameron have finally cracked the code for convincing CGI fire? Only time will tell what marvels lie ahead when Fire and Ash hits theaters on December 19.

Marty Supreme

This movie isn’t about Martin Scorsese’s life. Instead, it features a fictionalized character named Marty Reisman, played by Timothée Chalamet in a film that’s somewhat like a biopic. Alongside him are Gwyneth Paltrow, Sandra Bernhard, and Tyler, the Creator. With a budget of $70 million (the highest ever for an A24 production), this film marks writer-director Josh Safdie’s first solo project after working with his brother, Benny. We’re eager to see if he can maintain the magic from Uncut Gems all by himself. (Opens in theaters on December 25.)

Also premiering in December

➼ Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (hitting cinemas on December 5)

➼ The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants (set to release in theaters on December 19)

➼ The Anaconda (premiering in theaters on December 25)

➼ The Maid (the film) (debuting in theaters on December 25)

➼ Sarah’s Oil (the movie) (slated for release in theaters on December 25)

More (undated) 2025 films to get excited about

Frankenstein

Over the course of his professional journey, Guillermo del Toro, known for breathing life into horror movie monsters, takes on the challenge of adapting Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking gothic sci-fi novel, “The Modern Prometheus,” better recognized as “Frankenstein“. Oscar Isaac, who previously portrayed a Frankenstein-esque character in “Ex Machina“, steps into the role of the arrogant doctor with a god complex. In the titular monster’s part, Jacob Elordi, standing tall at six feet and five inches, embodies the iconic role that Boris Karloff made famous in the 1930s. With numerous “Frankenstein” adaptations under our belt (and another one coming this year from Maggie Gyllenhaal titled “The Bride“) it’s challenging to imagine a director more fitting for this classic tale than the romantic maverick who brought us “The Shape of Water” and “Crimson Peak“. (Expected on Netflix in 2025.)

Also premiering next year

1. Post-Hunt (Luca Guadagnino)
2. Alpha (Julia Ducournau)
3. Architect (Victor Kossakovsky)
4. The Ballad of a Small Gambler (Edward Berger)
5. Recover Her (Danny and Michael Phillippou)
6. Stealing in the Shadows (Darren Aronofsky)
7. Death of a Mythical Creature (Alex Scharfman)
8. Farewell, My Love (Lynne Ramsay)
9. The Crisis (Kristoffer Borgli)
10. Eddington (Ari Aster)
11. Faces of Mortality (Daniel Goldhaber)
12. Family, Lover, Friend, Brother (Jim Jarmusch)
13. Companionship (Andrew DeYoung)
14. Growth (Armando Iannucci)
15. Happy Gilmore 2 (Kyle Newacheck)
16. Highest to Lowest (Spike Lee)
17. Hope (Na Hong-jin)
18. Don’t Be Angry! (Ethan Coen)
19. Horizon: An American Chronicle — Chapter 2 (Kevin Costner)
20. Boosters Lovers (Boots Riley)
21. I Desire Your Affection (Gregg Araki)
22. The Land of Dreams (Kyle Edward Ball)
23. Enchanted Farm (Amalia Ulman)
24. Marcel Pagnol’s Remarkable Life (Sylvain Chomet)
25. The Mastermind (Kelly Reichardt)
26. Materialists (Celine Song)
27. Mirror No. 3 (Christian Petzold)
28. Mother Mary (David Lowery)
29. No Other Option (Park Chan-wook)
30. The Old Guard 2 (Victoria Mahoney)
31. Sidewalks (Alex Ross Perry)
32. The Phoenician Conspiracy (Wes Anderson)
33. Play Dirty (Shane Black)
34. Resurrection (Bi Gan)
35. Rip (Joe Carnahan)
36. Splitsville (Michael Covino)
37. Sacrifice (Romain Gavras)
38. The Destructive Machine (Benny Safdie)
39. Sontag (Kirsten Johnson)
40. Untitled Noah Baumbach Film (Noah Baumbach)
41. Wake Up, Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Rian Johnson)
42. Warfare (Ray Mendoza, Alex Garland)
43. Young Mothers (Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne)

2025-01-06 17:56