As the summer of 2025 approaches, moviegoers can look forward to a diverse lineup of films hitting theaters and streaming platforms. Here is a glimpse at the top 10 most anticipated releases:
- Superman
James Gunn, the director of “The Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy, introduces David Corenswet as the Man of Steel. Aiming to revitalize the DC Universe with a blend of action and emotional depth, Gunn confronts Superman’s Kryptonian heritage and human upbringing. Superman will be released in theaters on July 11.
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Marvel’s first family makes their Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) return, promising a mix of science fiction and superhero adventure and beginning “Phase 6” of the MCU. Showcasing Pedro Pascal as Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Human Torch, and Ebon Moss- Bachrach as Thing, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” will be released on July 25 and is already one of the most anticipated films of the year.
- I Know What You Did Last Summer
The chilling legacy continues with “I Know What You Did Last Summer”, the newest installment of the Slasher Franchise. The film, directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, revives the classic formula of guilt, secrets, and a relentless killer, with a fresh cast and a darker, more psychological tone. Starring Madelyn Cline as Danica, Jennifer Love Hewitt as Julie James, and Nicholas Chavez in a role that hasn’t yet been revealed. The movie is set to be released on July 18.
- Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in what is expected to be his final mission in the eighth movie in the franchise. Delivering the high-octane action sequences the series is known for, “Final Reckoning” will start where “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” left off, with Eathan’s team dead racing to destroy the rogue A.I. named “The Entity.” “Mission Impossible” will be released on May 23.
- Jurassic World Rebirth
Directed by Gareth Edwards, this installment features Scarlett Johansson as Zora Bennett and Mahershala Ali as Duncan Kincaid, two stars who will be navigating a world where dinosaurs roam once more. In this movie, Zora Bennett, the main character, returns to the original Jurassic Park and makes a shocking discovery that has been hidden for years. This film is set to release in theaters July 2. This new movie is set five years after the previous movie, “Jurassic World: Dominion.”
- The Conjuring: Last Rites
“Last Rites” is set to be released on Sep. 5, marking the fourth installment of the “Conjuring” series. The film features Patrick Wilson and Vera Famiga who will be reprising their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren as they take on their most terrifying case: a demonic possession rooted in religious betrayal. Previous movies in the “Conjuring” franchise grossed over $200 million, setting a high bar for “Last Rites”
- Lilo & Stitch
Director Dean Fleischer brings the beloved story of a Hawaiian girl and her alien friend to a new generation.This fan favorite film is sure to be viewed under a critical lens as an addition to the list of Disney’s recent live-action failures. Reprising his role as the voice of Stitch, Chris Sanders will be accompanied by the up-and-coming child actress Maia Keoloah as Lilo. The film will be released to theaters on May 23.
- Materialists
The new romantic comedy directed by Celine Song is set to hit theaters on July 13 and will explore the complexities of love, identity, and modern relationships. The film stars Dakota Johnson, a young New York City matchmaker, torn between her perfect match, played by Pedro Pascal, and her imperfect ex, played by Chris Evans.
- How to Train Your Dragon: Live Action
Directed by Dean DeBlois and starring Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, Gerarad Butler as Stoick, and Julian Dennison as Fishlegs, this live-action remake will look to recreate the magic from the original film. The budget has been estimated at over $50 million, just going off of the pre-production costs alone. The movie is set to be released on June 13.
- The Phoenician Scheme
Directed by Academy Award winner Wes Anderson, “The Phoenician Scheme” is already expected to receive numerous nominations and awards, potentially breaking records in its categories. The film stars Mia Threapleton as Soeur Liesl, Scarlett Johansson as La Cousine, Benicio del Toro as Zsa-zsa Korda, Tom Hanks as Leland, and Michael Cera as Bjorn Lund. The movie focuses on a wealthy businessman, Zsa-Zsa, appointing his only daughter, Soeur, the heir of their estate, making them the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists, and determined assassins. This movie will have a partial release on May 30 and a full release on June 6.
With a mix of sequels, reboots, and original stories, Summer 2025 promises an exciting season for movie enthusiasts. Keep an eye on these dates to see the best this summer has to offer!
