With just a few days left until the new year, it might be the perfect time to look ahead to see what's in store for us. For moviegoers, it's an opportunity to explore what lies on the horizon. While 2024 was marked by a wave of strange and unconventional films like The Substance, Longlegs, Megalopolis, and Joker 2, among others, 2025 seems to be shaping up to feature a more traditional lineup, including franchise sequels, comic book tentpoles, and star-driven projects. Are we perhaps moving into a year where familiarity dominates, with films largely aiming to resonate with a broader, more universal audience? Perhaps. So, let’s take a moment to review the previews that have already been released as we anticipate the major films set to light up the new year.
To kick off the year, January—a month often filled with Oscar contenders expanding into wider releases—will also feature several promising breakouts. While these may not be big-budget franchise installments, January will offer a variety of low-to-medium budget films aiming to make a strong impact.
JANUARY 2025
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
(Jan 3. on Netflix)
Aardman Studios is bringing Wallace and Gromit back in their first feature-length adventure in nearly two decades! The beloved duo, known for their quirky inventions and hilarious escapades, returns with their signature stop-motion charm and humor that has captivated audiences for generations.
This new Wallace & Gromit feature, debuting on Netflix, promises to be a delight for both longtime fans and newcomers, packed with inventive storytelling, laugh-out-loud moments, and the heartwarming friendship that made the pair iconic. With Aardman at the helm, expectations are sky-high for another unforgettable adventure!
Den of Thieves 2: Pantera
(Jan 10 in theaters)
A decade ago, Gerard Butler became a household name as King Leonidas in the sword-and-sandal epic 300. While many expected him to continue down the path of playing heroic warriors defying the odds, Butler has instead carved out a career in a niche that feels like a throwback to 90s action thrillers. In this new sequel to the cult dirty cops vs. thieves thriller Den of Thieves, Gerard Butler reprises his role as L.A. detective Nick "Big Nick" O’Brien, a rogue cop infamous for bending the rules to take down the criminals he’s after.
This time, Big Nick finds himself out of a job but determined as ever, traveling to Europe on a personal mission to dismantle one of the world’s most dangerous diamond-stealing syndicates. Disguised as a thief, Nick teams up with an old associate (played by O’Shea Jackson Jr.) to infiltrate the high-stakes criminal ring. Along the way, he becomes seduced by the allure of the criminal lifestyle, forcing him to grapple with his own morals and question whether he can—or even wants to—stay within the bounds of the law.
Unstoppable
(Jan 16 on Amazon Prime)
Sure, this is a new movie starring Jennifer Lopez and produced by Ben Affleck through his newly formed production company, Artists Equity, co-founded with Matt Damon. While much of the buzz has revolved around Lopez and Affleck’s recent breakup (making promotions somewhat awkward), both have handled the situation professionally, acknowledging each other’s contributions to the project.
The real story, however, lies in Jharrel Jerome’s powerful performance as one-legged college wrestler Anthony Robles. Based on Robles' memoir, the film chronicles his inspirational journey to becoming one of the top university wrestlers in the nation. Against all odds, Robles finds himself competing in the championships, fueled by the unwavering support of his mother, Judy, played by Jennifer Lopez.
The film has received mostly positive reviews during its festival run and marks the directorial debut of veteran film editor William Goldenberg, who won an Oscar for his work on Ben Affleck’s CIA thriller Argo. As a poignant celebration of overcoming adversity, the film promises to leave audiences moved and uplifted—assuming the chatter about J-Lo and Ben’s divorce can take a backseat, even for a moment.
Wolf Man
(Jan. 17 in theaters)
Horror filmmaker Leigh Whannell has proven his knack for breathing new life into old Universal monster classics, turning The Invisible Man into a modern hit with the backing of horror powerhouse Blumhouse. By updating the story with a contemporary twist, Whannell showed there’s still a hungry audience for these classic horror tales—provided they’re given a fresh, modern sensibility.
Now, Whannell is teaming up with Blumhouse again to tackle another Universal monster icon: Wolf Man. Drawing inspiration from the '80s horror films he grew up with, particularly John Carpenter’s The Thing, Whannell envisions a retelling that focuses on the horror of transformation—a chilling metaphor for losing control, akin to a disease or a devasting virus. The isolation of the COVID lockdown may have subtly influenced this new take, but at its core, Whannell assures, it’s an intimate story about a family grappling with fear and uncertainty as they confront the monstrous changes in a loved one.
Back in Action
(Jan. 17 on Netflix)
Cameron Diaz makes her long-awaited return to the big screen after a decade-long hiatus, reuniting with her Annie co-star Jamie Foxx in this Netflix original. The pair star as a married couple with children whose seemingly ordinary suburban lives are upended when their past as retired undercover CIA agents comes to light. Forced back into the dangerous world of espionage, they must juggle high-stakes missions while protecting their family.
Directed by Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses), this action-comedy promises humor, heart, and plenty of thrills. Notably, the production faced challenges during filming, including Foxx's much-publicized medical crisis and hospitalization that temporarily halted the shoot for several months. Despite the setbacks, fans are eager to see if this long-awaited collaboration delivers on its potential.
One of Them Days
(Jan. 17 in theaters)
Finding humor in life’s misfortunes isn’t groundbreaking, but tapping into a struggle so many face today might make this new buddy comedy a sleeper hit. Keke Palmer and singer SZA star as roommates in a desperate race against the clock to scrape together enough cash for rent at the end of the month. The lengths they go to make ends meet might leave audiences laughing through tears—or tearing up from how painfully relatable it all feels. The question is, will viewers embrace the relatability and feel seen, or will they gravitate toward some lighter, escapist fare?
Presence
(Jan. 24 in theaters)
Imagine a haunted house thriller where a family is terrorized by a malicious spirit—sounds pretty standard, right? Not this time. Here’s the thing: the entire story is told from the perspective of an unseen ghost.
Always one to push cinematic boundaries, filmmaker Steven Soderbergh steps into the horror genre with a ghost story unlike any other. Known for experimenting with unconventional methods—like shooting his 2018 thriller Unsane entirely on an iPhone 7 Plus—Soderbergh takes on a new challenge. This time, the film is shot entirely in wide angles, with no close-ups, offering the eerie perspective of the ghost observing a family who has just moved into its home.
The cast includes Lucy Liu, Julia Fox, Chris Sullivan, and Callina Liang, but the real star of the film is the spirit itself, looming over the story in a way only Soderbergh could bring to life.
Flight Risk
(Jan. 24 in theaters)
Mel Gibson’s name has long been associated with controversy, but whatever your opinion of the Mad Max actor as a public figure, his behind-the-scenes career as a filmmaker has been undeniably impressive. His films, including the Oscar-winning Braveheart and the harrowing war drama Hacksaw Ridge, have cemented his reputation as a director with a knack for gripping storytelling.
Interestingly, when asked recently about his favorite American filmmaker, RRR director S. S. Rajamouli didn’t hesitate—he named Mel Gibson. After nearly nine years away from directing, Gibson is finally returning with a new thriller, his first since 2016’s Hacksaw Ridge. The film stars Mark Wahlberg as the pilot of a small cargo plane transporting an FBI informant under tight security. Here’s the twist: Wahlberg’s character is secretly a professional hitman, and the entire flight is a setup for an execution. What he doesn’t anticipate, however, is the resilience of the U.S. Marshal onboard. Michelle Dockery stars as the sharp and resourceful federal officer, determined to protect her informant long enough to secure his testimony for a high-stakes trial.
The script, written by Jared Rosenberg, was featured on the 2020 Black List—a prestigious ranking of Hollywood’s most-liked unproduced screenplays. Known for his maximalist style, it will be fascinating to see how Gibson adapts his sensibilities to this tense, character-driven chamber piece.
Inheritance
(Jan. 24 in theaters)
British actress Phoebe Dynevor became a household name with her breakout performance in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton. Since then, she’s been working to solidify her film career, starring in 2023’s much-discussed workplace thriller Fair Play, which Netflix acquired to significant buzz. Dynevor was also in the running for the role of Lois Lane in James Gunn’s new Superman movie, a part that ultimately went to Rachel Brosnahan.
Now, Dynevor takes on another leading role in a new thriller from Neil Burger, the director behind Limitless and The Illusionist. Shot entirely on an iPhone to heighten its sense of urgency, the film follows Dynevor as a young woman thrust into a high-stakes world of espionage. After her father reveals he’s been a government spy for years and then mysteriously vanishes, her character embarks on a global search to uncover the truth. Pursued by Interpol and caught in a web of deception, she must navigate a world where trust is a rare commodity, and everyone seems to have something to hide. This high-octane thriller promises twists, tension, and a showcase for Dynevor’s rising star power.
You're Cordially Invited
(Jan. 30 on Amazon Prime Video)
When we think of Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon, it’s easy to picture them as America’s sweethearts. But in this new wedding comedy, they’re anything but sweet. Playing two strangers, they find themselves hilariously at odds after a mix-up leads to both booking the same dream wedding venue on the same day.
Directed and written by Nicholas Stoller (Neighbors, The Five-Year Engagement), the film pits Ferrell and Witherspoon against each other as they clash over who gets to throw the perfect wedding for their loved ones. What ensues is a battle of wills filled with escalating pranks, bitter jealousy, and plenty of chaos as both refuse to back down.
With comedies on the decline recently, this laugh-out-loud romp could be just what audiences need to start the new year on a high note. And let’s be honest—we could all use a good laugh right about now.
Companion
(Jan. 31 in theaters)
Some love stories, like The Notebook, are heartfelt and deeply moving. This film, however, leans heavily into the "agonizing" part to deliver a dark and twisted take on romance. In this new romantic thriller from the producers of the hit horror movie Barbarian, Jack Quaid (The Boys) and Sophie Thatcher (Yellowjackets) star as a couple trapped in a toxic relationship that spirals from emotionally destructive to downright deadly—literally.
The story centers on a young man who refuses to let go of the one he loves, quite literally, as he cuffs her to a chair in a desperate bid to keep her close. Written and directed by Drew Hancock, making his feature debut after a writing career in television comedy (Suburgatory, My Dead Ex, Blue Mountain State), the film promises to balance shocking twists with biting tension and even a dash of dark humor. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions—and a few white-knuckle moments—in this unconventional and sinister love story.
February is set to start off the cinematic year with a bang, as the first MCU film of 2025 graces the big screen in this month. Featuring genres of action, comedy, superhero spectacle, and even a touch of horror, these releases sets the tone for what could be a genre-blending year in film.
If February’s lineup is any indication, the month might serve as a preview of the variety and ambition audiences can expect throughout 2025. Whichever movie rises to the top could offer an early hint at the themes, trends, and audience preferences that will shape the rest of the year.
FEBRUARY 2025
Love Hurts
(Feb. 7 in theaters)
Few actors deserve the career resurgence that Ke Huy Quan is enjoying right now. After winning an Oscar for his incredible supporting role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, Quan has cemented himself as one of Hollywood’s most inspiring comeback stories.
In the 1980s, he was a beloved child star, memorable as Short Round in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Data in The Goonies. However, like many child stars of his era, his career eventually stalled, forcing him to leave acting years ago. But his triumphant return to the spotlight, capped by an Oscar win, has rewritten his story.
Now, at 53, Ke Huy Quan takes on his first leading role in a new action-comedy. He stars as a retired professional assassin who has left his violent past behind to become a real estate agent. But when his estranged, crime-lord brother resurfaces, he’s pulled back into a life of chaos, forced to confront old enemies and right past wrongs.
Just a few years ago, it might have seemed impossible for Quan to headline a major studio action comedy. But with his Oscar win and undeniable talent, it’s clear that for Ke Huy Quan, the sky’s the limit.
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy
(Feb. 13 on Peacock)
When Bridget Jones's Diary hit theaters back in 2001, there was plenty of chatter about whether Renée Zellweger was the right choice to play the book publicity assistant at the heart of Helen Fielding’s beloved novel. Critics questioned casting an American actress to portray the quintessentially British Bridget Jones, and some argued that Zellweger was too slim for a character described as a typical working-class woman of a certain size. But all doubts were silenced when the film premiered, with Zellweger not only nailing Bridget’s charm and relatability but also delivering an impeccable British accent. Her performance turned the role into one of her most iconic and cemented the Bridget Jones series as a cultural phenomenon.
Fast forward to 2025, and Zellweger is set to reprise her role in a new sequel, marking the fourth installment of the franchise. This time, Bridget is navigating the complexities of dating again after the loss of her true love. Adding to the chaos, she’s now a single mother to a young child, which makes finding love even more complicated.
The new film will premiere on Peacock in the U.S. but will debut in theaters across the UK in February, where the character remains a national treasure. It’s a fresh chapter for Bridget that promises to bring the laughs, heart, and charm fans have come to expect.
Captain America: Brave New World
(Feb. 14 in theaters)
Has the MCU done enough to reclaim its place in the hearts of fans? Following the massive success of Deadpool & Wolverine last summer, it might seem like Marvel is back on top. But judging by certain corners of the internet, the franchise still has some work to do to fully restore its glory days.
The next test comes with this highly anticipated MCU film featuring Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson completing his journey from Falcon to the new Captain America. While Mackie’s portrayal is a big draw, the film has another major selling point: Harrison Ford’s debut as Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, now the newly elected President of the United States. Ross’s administration is pushing a hardline anti-terrorism agenda that directly clashes with Sam Wilson’s ideals, setting the stage for a high-stakes ideological showdown.
Well, if this premise sounds a bit familiar, fans have one major reason to stay excited: the introduction of the Red Hulk! With Ross’s transformation into the formidable and unpredictable Red Hulk, the film promises to bring explosive action and a fresh dynamic to the MCU. This movie could be the make-or-break moment for Marvel’s efforts to recapture fan enthusiasm. If they pull it off, it just might signal the start of a new era for the franchise.
Paddington in Peru
(Feb. 14 in theaters)
There are two kinds of people in this world: those who believe the Paddington films are the greatest children’s movies ever made and those who—somehow—haven’t seen one yet. Guilty as charged! Count us among the uninitiated. Yet, it feels like not a week goes by without hearing someone rave about how heartwarming, beautifully crafted, and downright brilliant these films are. The Paddington fanbase is real, and their enthusiasm is contagious.
So, it’s no surprise that a third Paddington movie is on the way. This time, everyone’s favorite marmalade-loving bear is heading back to his roots in Peru for a family reunion that quickly turns into an exciting jungle adventure. With all the charm, whimsy, and heartfelt moments fans have come to expect, this sequel promises to deliver another delightful outing for audiences of all ages. By now, the filmmakers clearly know their audience, and if history is any indication, they’re likely to hit it out of the park again. Maybe it’s finally time to join the Paddington hive and see what all the fuss is about.
The Monkey
(Feb. 21 in theaters)
2024 was a standout year for horror filmmaker Oz Perkins. His serial killer thriller Longlegs not only hit all the terrifying notes of Silence of the Lambs, but it also featured one of Nicolas Cage’s most unhinged performances to date—and that’s saying something. The film became a cultural phenomenon and one of the year’s biggest horror hits. Now, the question is: can Perkins strike gold again?
From the looks of his next project, the odds are in his favor. Perkins is adapting Stephen King’s classic short story The Monkey, a chilling tale about a cursed toy monkey that brings death and destruction to anyone unlucky enough to possess it. Theo James stars as a man desperate to avoid becoming the monkey’s next victim. To make things even more exciting, James Wan, the mastermind behind The Conjuring universe, is on board as an executive producer.
With three horror heavyweights—Perkins, King, and Wan—collaborating, this film is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the genre. And for anyone still holding on to a creepy toy monkey, here’s yet another reason to toss it out.
The Gorge
(Feb. 14 on Apple TV+)
The internet is full of wild conspiracy theories, but one persistent rumor stands out: the so-called Gates of Hell—a massive crater somewhere on Earth unleashing demonic horrors into the world. But what if it were real? That’s the chilling premise of Scott Derrickson’s latest supernatural thriller. Known for horror classics like The Black Phone, Sinister, and The Exorcism of Emily Rose, as well as the MCU blockbuster Doctor Strange, Derrickson brings his knack for blending horror and action to this pulse-pounding new film project.
Set in the remote European wilderness, this new thriller follows two snipers—played by Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy—stationed in towering outposts on opposite sides of a hellish rift. Tasked with shooting down the monstrous entities emerging from the abyss, these soldiers serve rival governments that strictly forbid any communication between them. Despite their orders, the two begin to form a fragile bond, realizing they may have to work together to survive—and to contain the relentless horrors escaping the Gates of Hell. Sounds cool, right. So, why is this intense, genre-bending film heading straight to streaming on Apple TV+? Perhaps it’s a strategic play in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape—or a sign of Apple doubling down on high-concept originals.
Cleaner
(Feb. 21 in theaters)
This new British action thriller takes inspiration from classics like Die Hard, placing a reluctant hero at the center of a dangerous situation beyond their control. This time, it’s Daisy Ridley, known for her role as Rey in the recent Star Wars films, starring as a lone window cleaner working atop a towering skyscraper during a high-profile corporate gala that’s taken over by terrorists. Clive Owen steps into the role of the suave yet ruthless leader of the operation, holding a room full of hostages. Ridley’s character, with a military background, channels her inner John McClane as she battles armed mercenaries in a desperate bid to stop the terrorists from blowing up the building.
Directed by action veteran Martin Campbell (Casino Royale, GoldenEye, The Mask of Zorro), this film tests Ridley’s heroic spirit —she’s proven she can handle a lightsaber, but how will she fare without one?
Old Man
(Feb. 21 in select theaters and on digital)
Two-time Oscar winner Christoph Waltz flexes his comedic muscles in this new action-comedy, stepping into the role of a grizzled, over-the-hill hitman who begrudgingly agrees to train a cocky yet naturally talented Gen Z assassin. Cooper Hoffman plays the young hitman-in-training whose enthusiasm and knack for pushing everyone’s buttons—especially his mentor’s—set the stage for plenty of hilarious tension.
Directed by action veteran Simon West (Con Air, The Expendables 2) and co-starring Lucy Liu, this film promises to deliver a lighthearted throwback to the days when action movies embraced humor alongside high-octane thrills.
Last Breath
(Feb. 28 in theaters)
The scariest stories to bring to life on film are often those rooted in true events, especially when set in one of the most terrifying places on Earth: the Abyss.
Woody Harrelson, Simu Liu, Finn Cole, Cliff Curtis, and Djimon Hounsou star in this gripping underwater thriller inspired by a documentary that recounts a real-life, harrowing deep-sea accident. The story follows a diver who is accidentally severed from his safety cord and drifts away from his team, becoming trapped 330 feet underwater without heat, light, and with his air supply dwindling. Harrelson takes the lead in a high-stakes rescue mission, where the greatest challenge is locating the diver in absolute darkness.
Intense, anxiety-inducing, and deeply unsettling, this film has all the hallmarks of a tragic drama that explores humanity’s vulnerability against the relentless forces of nature.
The Legend of Ochi
(Feb. 28 in theaters)
E.T. proves that everyone loves a heartfelt tale of a child and their unique bond with a mysterious creature. In this modern fantasy, the familiar E.T. formula gets a fresh, fantastical twist. Set in a quaint fictional village in an imaginary world, the story follows Yuri, a young girl who upholds her village’s tradition of scouring the forest to scare off mythical creatures known as the Ochi. However, Yuri’s life takes a dramatic turn when she befriends a baby Ochi and becomes its protector, defying the village’s strict rules.
Helena Zengel stars as Yuri, with Willem Dafoe portraying the stern village leader. Finn Wolfhard and Emily Watson co-star in this visually stunning fantasy, which marks the film debut of music video director Isaiah Saxon. Evoking the visual styles of early Spike Jonze and Michel Gondry films, this project could serve as an impressive calling card for Saxon. It might also turn out to be a surprise hit of 2025 — like we said, everyone loves a heartfelt tale of a child and their adorable pet monster.
My Dead Friend Zoe
(Feb. 28 in theaters)
When U.S. Army veteran Kyle Hausmann-Stokes transitioned to filmmaking, he aimed to create stories that authentically reflected the realities faced by veterans, sparking important conversations about their struggles. His acclaimed short film Merit x Zoe—about an Afghanistan veteran grappling with severe PTSD and having imagined conversations with the ghost of her fallen army friend—has now been expanded into a full-length feature film.
The film stars Sonequa Martin-Green as Merit, a soldier wrestling with the weight of her past, and Natalie Morales as Zoe, the ghostly companion who challenges and comforts her. Through a blend of dark humor and raw emotional honesty, the film explores the complexities of trauma, healing, and finding closure. With supporting roles by Oscar nominee Ed Harris and Oscar winner Morgan Freeman, the film promises a poignant and deeply human exploration of a soldier’s journey to move forward.
MARCH 2025
Sinners
(Mar. 7 in theaters)
Black Panther director Ryan Coogler steps away from Marvel to whip up an original horror tale set in the Jim Crow-era South. Reuniting with frequent collaborator Michael B. Jordan for their fifth project together, Coogler explores new territory in this chilling story. Jordan takes on dual roles as twin brothers who return to their hometown in the South for a promising business opportunity, only to find their former home shrouded in eerie tension. During a nighttime gathering, one brother becomes trapped in a large barn with other locals as a terrifying demonic force begins to close in. Is it the devil himself, or something even worse?
Coogler writes and directs, marking his debut in the horror genre. Well, if it’s anything like his work in the superhero genre, we’re definitely in for an exciting time at the movies!
The Electric State
(Mar. 14 on Netflix)
Imagine the '90s—but an alternate version, where humanity is locked in the aftermath of a devastating war with self-aware robots. Filmmaking duo Anthony and Joe Russo reunite with Netflix to explore a retro-futuristic vision of the decade, transforming it into a dystopia where robots have been outlawed following a failed uprising. Millie Bobby Brown, a Netflix favorite thanks to Stranger Things, Enola Holmes, and Damsel, stars as an orphaned teen searching for her long-lost brother. Along the way, she encounters a quirky robot mascot, a black-market smuggler (Chris Pratt), and his robot sidekick. Together, they venture into the forbidden zone—a desert wasteland where discarded robots survive in exile.
Inspired by the conceptual artwork of Swedish illustrator Simon Stalenhag, whose work also influenced the short-lived Amazon series Tales from the Loop, this Netflix project aims to combine '90s nostalgia with striking retro-robotic imagery. Whether it will succeed remains uncertain, though it’s worth noting that the Russos have struggled to replicate their Marvel-era success.
Black Bag
(Mar. 14 in theaters)
For a filmmaker who once claimed to have retired, Steven Soderbergh seems busier than ever. In his second film this year, Soderbergh teams up with Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett for a gripping espionage thriller with a fresh twist. Fassbender and Blanchett star as married spies, both masters of deception. When Fassbender’s character is assigned to uncover a mole within his department, he’s stunned to discover that his own wife is the prime suspect. The question is, how do you out-spy a spy—especially when she’s been trained to tell you exactly what you want to hear while keeping her true intentions hidden?
Novocaine
(Mar. 14 in theaters)
Jack Quaid, known for co-starring in Amazon's The Boys, stars as an ordinary guy who’s just fallen for the woman of his dreams. Sounds pretty familiar, right? But here’s the twist: Quaid plays a bank manager assistant whose workplace is hit by masked robbers. During their getaway, the thieves take his new girlfriend (Amber Midthunder from Prey) as a hostage. Determined to save her, Quaid’s character abandons the crime scene and embarks on a relentless mission to rescue the woman he loves. Oh, and there’s one more thing—he has a rare condition that makes him unable to feel pain, allowing him to endure brutal punishment and keep fighting. Well, you know what they say, love hurt.
Disney's Snow White
(Mar. 21 in theaters)
Let’s be honest—this live-action Disney musical remake has been embroiled in controversy since its announcement. After numerous reshoots and debates over how to depict the Seven Dwarfs (eventually settling on hyper-realistic CGI characters after an abandoned attempt to cast actors of varying sizes), the buzz surrounding the project has been less than encouraging. Many had written it off as a disaster in the making.
However, with Wicked defying expectations and becoming a box office juggernaut, Disney now hopes to capitalize on the same audience’s enthusiasm for musical fantasies. The real question is: will viewers embrace Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, or is this a gamble destined to fall short?
Ash
(Mar. 21 in theaters)
Rapper and music producer Flying Lotus ventures into filmmaking with a new sci-fi horror project, supported by District 9 director Neill Blomkamp as executive producer. Eiza González (3 Body Problem) and Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad) star as space explorers stranded on a remote space station where the crew has been mysteriously slaughtered. González’s character must determine whether she can trust Paul’s character, who claims to be her rescuer. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there’s more to the situation than meets the eye. With its visually stunning and enigmatic premise, this film promises to be a mind-bending experience — true to Flying Lotus's signature style.
APRIL 2025
A Minecraft Movie
(Apr. 4 in theaters)
How do you adapt a wildly popular video game centered around using simple tools and materials to build your own blocky world? Easy—cast Jack Black and you’ve got a kid-friendly movie in the making. Add Jason Momoa, Aquaman himself, into the mix, and you’ve got even more star power.
Black, reuniting with Nacho Libre director Jared Hess, stars as Steve, the resourceful crafter who guides a group of misfits through a bizarre video game world. The group, including Momoa, Emma Myers, and Danielle Brooks, is transported to the Overworld via a mysterious portal. With video game adaptations currently dominating the box office, this film will put to the test just how eager audiences are for another big-screen adventure.
The Amateur
(Apr. 11 in theaters)
Since winning an Oscar for his electrifying portrayal of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, Rami Malek has faced challenges replicating that same level of success. However, this year, he might have landed the perfect project for himself. Malek, who also earned an Emmy for his role in Mr. Robot, returns to his hacker roots in a new revenge-driven action thriller.
Malek stars as a lowly CIA data analyst whose life is shattered when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack. Fueled by grief and a thirst for justice, his character goes rogue, using his expert hacking and surveillance skills to hunt down those responsible. While he may not have the physicality of Jason Bourne or John Wick, Malek’s character embodies a new kind of avenger—one who represents a generation deeply connected to technology and its power.
Mickey 17
(Apr. 18 in theaters)
In his first film since the Oscar-winning Parasite, Korean writer-director Bong Joon-ho returns with a darkly comic sci-fi fable exploring identity, personal worth, and survival in a dystopian system. If that sounds a bit lofty, remember: this is a black comedy starring Robert Pattinson—Batman himself—as multiple clones.
Pattinson plays Mickey Barnes, a low-level maintenance worker aboard a spaceship fleeing Earth. Mickey has agreed to become an "expendable," a disposable employee assigned the most dangerous tasks, knowing he’ll be regenerated each time he’s killed on the job. Now on his 17th iteration, Mickey discovers the existence of another Mickey clone aboard the ship—a serious violation punishable by one clone’s elimination. But the real question arises: who gets to live? Mickey 17, the other clone, or perhaps neither? Bong’s unique vision and sharp social commentary promise to make this a thought-provoking and darkly entertaining ride.
MAY 2025
Thunderbolts*
(May 2 in theaters)
Sure, a cold cynic might say that Marvel is just doing their own take on DC’s Suicide Squad, gathering their favorite supervillains for an ultimate team-up. But what's wrong with that? Especially when the cast includes this colorful crew of misfits: Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Red Guardian (David Harbour), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), Bob (Lewis Pullman), and Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus).
Directed by Jake Schreier and written by Lee Sung Jin, the makers behind the Emmy-winning Beef on Netflix, this new MCU entry might just have what it takes to be the breakout hit of the summer. Don’t count Marvel out just yet. Must wait a while and see if they’re just catching their second wind or if they’re on their last leg.
Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning
(May 23 in theaters)
You wouldn’t know it by looking at him, but Tom Cruise is 62 years old. To put that into context, that’s about the same age Ian McKellen was when he started playing Gandalf the Grey in The Lord of the Rings films. Which leads to the question: how much longer can Cruise keep doing his own stunts? How much longer can he continue performing death-defying acts, like jumping off a plane or flying a helicopter near a mountain cliff? Perhaps, that might be why this final Mission: Impossible installment, a direct sequel to 2023's Dead Reckoning, is shaping up to be his swan song as super-spy Ethan Hunt. It’s been nearly three decades since Cruise first took on the role, and we’re sure he and director Christopher McQuarrie have some adrenaline-pumping surprises in store to keep us on the edge of our seats. But here’s the thing: will this be the last time we see Cruise as Ethan Hunt, or is the biggest surprise that he plans to continue this franchise for as long as there’s still breath in him?
Lilo & Stitch
(May 23 in theaters)
Disney continues to dip into its vault of beloved IPs, reimagining, remaking, or rebooting classics. This time, the chosen one is their 2002 animated film Lilo & Stitch, the heartwarming tale about a Hawaiian girl named Lilo who befriends a blue, koala-like alien pet creature. The story has now been reimagined as a live-action remake, with Stitch staying true to his original cartoon design but now brought to life as a realistic CGI creature. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the Oscar-nominated stop-motion comedy Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, this new take on the classic promises to blend live-action with realistic CGI effects.
Karate Kid: Legends
(May 30 in theaters)
The Karate Kid franchise has entered its “legend phase,” where all the pieces come together—the 2010 quasi-remake, the original films, and the hit Cobra Kai spin-off series. Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel LaRusso, joined by Jackie Chan reprising his role as Mr. Han. Together, these two masters unite their expertise in Karate and Kung Fu to mentor a young fighting prodigy (Ben Wang) competing in a high-stakes tournament in Hong Kong. Is this a cynical cash grab or a genuine expansion of the Karate Kid universe? Perhaps, in Hollywood, the answer doesn’t really matter—as long as movie tickets are being sold.
JUNE 2025
From the World of John Wick: Ballerina
(Jun. 6 in theaters)
Ana de Armas steps into the spotlight as the potential new driving force behind the John Wick action franchise. She stars as Eve Macarro, a "ballerina" and highly trained assassin out for vengeance against a powerful mob boss who destroyed her family.
Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, the film promises familiar faces, including Keanu Reeves as John Wick (cue the cheers), Ian McShane as Winston Scott (the beloved Continental Hotel owner), and the late Lance Reddick as Charon, the ever-reliable concierge (moment of silence, please). Walking Dead star Norman Reedus swaps zombies for assassins as one of the main villains, while Gabriel Byrne takes on the role of the Chancellor, who unleashes an army of killers to stop the Ballerina.
Can Ana de Armas carry the franchise? With her undeniable talent and a killer presence, she just might prove to be the perfect fit.
Pixar's Elio
(Jun. 13 in theaters)
With all the recent chatter about UFO sightings and strange objects in the sky, what if aliens really are out there—and they accidentally beam up a human boy, mistaking him for one of Earth's leaders? That’s the premise of Pixar’s latest adventure.
Elio follows a UFO-obsessed kid whose dream of meeting extraterrestrials comes true in the most unexpected way. The twist? Elio suddenly finds himself representing the entire human race at an intergalactic council of aliens. What could possibly go wrong? With Pixar at the helm, expect a heartwarming mix of humor, wonder, and self-discovery with a dose of extraterrestrial hysteria.
How to Train Your Dragon
(Jun. 13 in theaters)
DreamWorks appears to be taking a page from Disney’s playbook, diving into its animated vault for a live-action adaptation. While this trend has sparked mixed reactions, it’s proved to be a lucrative strategy. Enter How to Train Your Dragon, one of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved and successful franchises, which kicked off in 2010 and spawned two sequels. Now, a live-action remake joins the lineup.
Here’s some good news: Gerard Butler, who voiced Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s Viking chieftain father, will play the live-action version of the character. Meanwhile, a new cast of young actors steps into the roles of Hiccup (Mason Thames) and his friends (Nico Parker, Julian Dennison).
The big question remains: how will Toothless translate to live-action? Strangely enough, the dragon stays true to his animated charm, with just a touch of added realism. Dean DeBlois, co-director of the animated trilogy, takes the reins for his live-action directorial debut.
28 Years Later
(Jun. 20 in theaters)
Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland revolutionized the zombie genre in 2002 with their groundbreaking horror thriller 28 Days Later. Little did they know, they’d help ignite a modern wave of zombie-centric pop culture, paving the way for hits like The Walking Dead, Shaun of the Dead, and World War Z. Now, two decades later, Boyle and Garland reunite to revisit the terrifying world they created, this time aiming to launch an ambitious new horror trilogy.
The first installment is set 28 years after the original outbreak, with zombies now more resilient and deadlier than ever. Humanity, struggling to survive, has established a fortified society, but invasive measures blur the line between survival and morality.
Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell—and possibly a cameo from Cillian Murphy—this long-awaited sequel is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated horror films of the year.
F1
(Jun. 27 in theaters)
Since winning an Oscar for his unforgettable turn as Manson Family-killing stuntman Cliff Booth in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Brad Pitt hasn't really been lighting up the screens lately. Well, that could all change with his new role as a veteran Formula One driver looking to make a comeback in the high-speed world of racing. Filmed during the actual Formula One World Championship, in collaboration with the FIA, this thrilling new racing drama features Pitt back in the driver’s seat, leading a top-notched cast that includes Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, and Javier Bardem.
With its adrenaline-pumping action and star power, this film could be this year's Top Gun: Maverick —meaning, a crowd-pleasing box-office juggernaut that resonates across generations. Directed by Top Gun: Maverick helmer Joseph Kosinski, the movie promises to be a sleek, adrenaline-fueled ride that could cement Pitt’s return to the spotlight.
JULY 2025
Superman
(Jul. 11 in theaters)
After years of hard work to establish a new DC Cinematic Universe, filmmaker James Gunn is finally set to unveil his Superman movie this summer. Serving as the first chapter of Gunn's reimagined slate of DC films, the movie introduces a world already populated with established superheroes.
David Corenswet takes on the iconic role of Clark Kent, a mild-mannered Daily Planet reporter who moonlights as the Man of Steel, with Rachel Brosnahan as the determined and sharp-witted Lois Lane. Nicholas Hoult steps into the shoes of the brilliant but sinister Lex Luthor.
The challenge for Gunn is to strike a balance between inventing a fresh and compelling Superman story while laying the foundation for a broader interconnected universe. If he succeeds, he could be celebrated as the savior of DC films. If not—well, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
AUGUST 2025
The Bad Guys 2
(Aug. 1 in theaters)
For a sequel to the hit animated movie about a group of reformed animal thieves using their criminal skills for good, the new film flips the script by introducing a fresh, new challenge. The lovable crew of the Bad Guys must now face off against a formidable all-female gang of criminals, the Bad Girls.
Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, and Awkwafina return to voice their characters in this new animated sequel. They're joined by a new voice cast that includes Danielle Brooks, Natasha Lyonne, Maria Bakalova, and Zazie Beetz.
DECEMBER 2025
The Anaconda
(Dec. 25 in theaters)
It’s the pairing of Jack Black and Paul Rudd! These two comedy powerhouses join forces for a hilarious boat adventure through the Amazonian rainforest, where they face an unexpected danger—a surprise attack by a legendary giant anaconda snake! Directed by Tom Gormican, the filmmaker behind The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, this action-comedy combines Black and Rudd's comedic chemistry with plenty of wild thrills. The film is set to debut in time for next Christmas.
COMING SOON
Warfare
(coming soon in theaters)
With Civil War (released earlier in 2024), acclaimed filmmaker Alex Garland examined the chilling prospect of a second Civil War in the United States. Now, Garland shifts focus, slightly, with this next film project, co-written and co-directed alongside Iraq War veteran Ray Mendoza.
This new feature delves deeply into the realities of modern urban combat, offering an unvarnished portrayal of what war truly looks and feels like. Collaborating once again with A24 Films and an ensemble of rising young talent, Garland and Mendoza create an intense cinematic experience that captures the chaos and brutality of battle, juxtaposed with the resilience and courage of soldiers on the frontlines.
Death of a Unicorn
(Coming Soon, Spring of 2025)
Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega team up in this delightfully bizarre dark horror comedy that’s as twisted as it is hilarious. They play a father and daughter who, during a routine road trip to visit Rudd’s billionaire boss (Richard E. Grant), accidentally run over a unicorn. Yes, a unicorn.
Things take an even stranger turn when Rudd’s boss, his privileged wife (Téa Leoni), and their entitled adult son (Will Poulter) discover the magical creature. Realizing the unicorn’s potential healing powers, the family sees dollar signs and goes to great lengths to exploit it. But just as greed takes over, the true star of the show emerges: Mama Unicorn. She’s furious, she’s powerful, and she’s about to unleash chaos like no one’s ever seen.
Packed with outrageous dark humor and gory thrills, this wacky horror comedy has all the makings of a cult classic.
Happy Gilmore 2
(Coming Soon on Netflix)
Adam Sandler is returning to his comedy roots with a long-awaited sequel to the '90s classic that solidified him as a Hollywood star—Happy Gilmore! Nearly 30 years later, Sandler’s beloved character, the temperamental hockey-player-turned-golfer, is back on the green. Now older, married, and with a few life lessons under his belt, Happy still has that fiery determination to prove he’s the best in the game.
This Netflix original promises to deliver the same rowdy energy, outrageous humor, and unforgettable moments that made the original a fan favorite. Whether it's on the fairway or in an all-out brawl, Happy Gilmore is ready to remind everyone why he’s still the king of golf!