2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for cinema, with Hollywood and international filmmakers pushing creative boundaries and offering audiences innovative storytelling experiences. We've curated a list of ten films already generating significant buzz – a diverse selection spanning large-scale blockbusters and thought-provoking auteur cinema guaranteed to captivate even the most discerning moviegoers.
Table of Contents
- In the Grey
- Mickey 17
- Zootopia 2
- Better Man
- September 5
- The Monkey
- Black Bag
- Ballerina
- 28 Years Later
- Wolf Man
In the Grey
Guy Ritchie, the maestro of stylish crime capers, returns with a new action thriller. He plunges viewers into a world of daring heists and high-stakes operations, following a team of specialists who recover stolen funds using unorthodox (and illegal) methods. While plot details remain shrouded in secrecy, expect Ritchie's signature witty dialogue, sharp visuals, and the intense action sequences his fans adore.
Why it's worth waiting for: Guy Ritchie's unique approach to crime narratives remains unparalleled. Even with familiar stylistic elements, his films consistently deliver. "In the Grey" promises a fresh take on heist themes, infused with dynamic characters and humor.
Mickey 17
This film follows Mickey, a clone dispatched on a perilous colonization mission to the icy planet Niflheim. Tasked with the most dangerous assignments, Mickey's consciousness is transferred to a new body after each death. However, during his 17th iteration, he begins questioning the absurdity of his existence, prompting him to explore the possibility of a life beyond endless cycles of death and rebirth.
Why it's worth waiting for: "Mickey 17" blends science fiction, dark humor, and philosophical musings on identity. Robert Pattinson's portrayal of multiple iterations of the same character, coupled with Mark Ruffalo's eccentric antagonist and a meticulously crafted visual world, makes this one of 2025's most compelling premieres.
Zootopia 2
The eagerly awaited sequel to Disney's hit film returns to the vibrant metropolis populated by anthropomorphic animals. Officer Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde embark on a clandestine undercover mission to investigate a mysterious reptilian threat looming over the city. Expect even more action-packed sequences, new locations within Zootopia, and the insightful social commentary that endeared the first film to audiences worldwide.
Why it's worth waiting for: The original "Zootopia" resonated not only for its humor and spectacle but also for its timely message about tolerance and prejudice. The sequel promises to explore these themes further, deepening character relationships and introducing equally charismatic new characters.
Better Man
This musical chronicles the life and career of iconic British musician Robbie Williams, charting his journey from boy band member to global superstar, encompassing both triumphs and tribulations. The film's unique twist lies in its portrayal of Robbie as a chimpanzee, brought to life through performance capture, adding a distinctive layer to the narrative.
Why it's worth waiting for: "Better Man" offers an unconventional approach to the biographical genre, uniquely blending music and performance capture. It's not just a celebrity story; it's a poignant exploration of the inner life of an individual who, despite fame, grapples with relatable personal struggles.
September 5
This historical drama recounts the harrowing events of the 1972 Munich Olympic hostage crisis through the perspective of the ABC Sports news team covering the event live. The film masterfully interweaves dramatization with archival footage, providing a profound understanding of the era's atmosphere.
Why it's worth waiting for: "September 5" offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in 20th-century history. It not only depicts the horrors of the hostage crisis but also highlights the media's role during such critical events, where news transcends mere information to become an integral part of a global tragedy.
The Monkey
Based on Stephen King's 1980 short story, this sci-fi comedy-adventure follows twin brothers, Hal and Bill, who unearth an antique wind-up toy monkey while exploring their father's attic. This seemingly ordinary toy, passed down through generations, triggers a series of tragic events, including the deaths of loved ones and friends.
Why it's worth waiting for: The film blends horror and comedy, focusing on parent-child relationships. The intriguing premise of a toy capable of both joy and death promises a mystical atmosphere and unexpected plot twists.
Black Bag
A tightly wound spy thriller, "Black Bag" shrouds its plot in secrecy, promising a suspenseful and intriguing 148-minute runtime. The film delves into the world of espionage, where every action has unforeseen consequences. Characters navigate a treacherous landscape of secrets and manipulation, adding an element of mystique and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Why it's worth waiting for: Director Steven Soderbergh's mastery of tense, stylish thrillers, combined with screenwriter David Koepp's expertise, promises an intellectually stimulating and engaging film. Expect sharp twists, unexpected choices, and complex characters.
Ballerina
The first spin-off in the John Wick universe centers on Eve Macaro, a ballerina-assassin seeking revenge. Set between the third and fourth John Wick films, Eve's quest for vengeance plunges her into a world of clandestine operations and brutal killings, leading to intense confrontations with her enemies.
Why it's worth waiting for: "Ballerina" is a must-see for John Wick fans, expanding the universe with thrilling new storylines. The franchise's signature intensity and dynamism will appeal to action enthusiasts and those following the overarching narrative, particularly with the appearance of iconic characters.
28 Years Later
This sequel to the iconic "28 Days Later" and "28 Weeks Later" transports viewers to a post-apocalyptic world decades after the original events. A group of survivors embarks on a crucial mission to the mainland, encountering new dangers and horrifying discoveries in a world transformed by both old and new threats.
Why it's worth waiting for: "28 Years Later" not only continues a beloved franchise but also explores a world profoundly altered over time. Post-apocalyptic horror consistently captivates audiences, and this film promises a heart-pounding atmosphere of fear and despair.
Wolf Man
This reboot of the classic werewolf tale focuses on a man grappling with the monstrous side of his nature. The film explores the psychological aspects of his transformation and the internal conflict he endures. While plot details remain undisclosed, expect an exploration of the hero's internal struggle and his relationship with the beast within.
Why it's worth waiting for: This isn't just another horror film; it delves into the hero's internal struggle, promising a captivating blend of psychological horror and mystical elements.
2025 promises a diverse and exciting slate of films, encompassing biographical musicals, intense thrillers, and science fiction adventures. Anticipated sequels to beloved franchises and fresh interpretations of classic stories are poised to become major cinematic events.
