In 2025, we’ve seen a diverse array of blockbuster films alongside smaller indie productions that have left audiences spellbound and eager for more. After a temporary pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year has been exceptionally vibrant for cinema, with filmmakers delving into unique and obscure narratives. In addition to these thought-provoking indie projects, some of the most popular Hollywood franchises have also expanded, offering some of the most thrilling cinematic experiences of the year.
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement as the remaining months of this year promise to be a cinematic feast! Movies like “Freaky Friday,” “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey,” “Tron: Ares,” “Predator: Badlands,” “Wicked: For Good,” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash” are just a few of the anticipated gems that will be gracing our screens. These potential blockbusters are set to share the stage with some of 2025’s standout films so far. Directed by talented filmmakers such as Danny Boyle, Alex Garland, Ryan Coogler, Matt Shakman, James Gunn, Michael Shanks, and many others, these ten films are already contenders for the best movies of 2025, although there are numerous other exceptional productions that have also impressed.
10) Companion (January 31, 2025)
Under the direction of Drew Hancock, the film titled “Companion” features Jack Quaid as Josh and Sophie Thatcher as Iris, a companion robot. Upon learning from Josh that Iris is actually a robot, she breaks free from his control, significantly enhances her own intelligence to 100%, and embarks on a violent rampage. Following its release, “Companion” garnered positive reviews, being lauded for its creativity, convincing acting, and an innovative twist in a genre that could have become cliché. The film marked an impressive debut as a director for Hancock, who was awarded the Directors to Watch honor at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival.
9) Lilo & Stitch (May 23, 2025)
In recent times, Disney has transformed numerous of its classic animated films into live-action movies, yet few have achieved the success that 2025’s Lilo & Stitch did. A remake of the 2002 original, where the alien experiment Stitch landed in Hawaii and was adopted by young Lilo, forming a family, Lilo & Stitch ranks as the second-highest-grossing film of 2025, earning $1.02 billion at the worldwide box office, just below the Chinese-made Ne Zha 2. The remake skillfully honors the original while forging its own path, setting up possibilities for a sequel that has already been confirmed.
8) Superman (July 11, 2025)
2025’s “Superman,” directed by James Gunn in the revamped DC Universe, has kicked off the new franchise with a powerful debut. The film stars David Corenswet as Superman, opposite Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Nathan Fillion, Edi Gathegi, and others. In contrast to Zack Snyder’s more somber portrayal, “Superman” brings back the vibrancy and color to the Man of Steel, who seemed weighed down by his darker character in previous iterations. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has earned an 83% critical rating and a 91% audience approval rating, signifying its success for 2025 and within the superhero genre.
7) The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 25, 2025)
In a close contest, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” surpassed Superman’s Rotten Tomatoes scores in 2025, earning a critics score of 87% and an audience rating of 92%. This summer blockbuster has become the undisputed champion of superhero films, despite having a less impressive run at the box office. The charismatic cast, including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn, breathes new life into the Fantastic Four characters in “First Steps”. Matt Shakman’s direction brings vibrancy and excitement to the Fantastic Four’s futuristic, alternate reality world. The portrayal of Galactus (Ralph Ineson) has been particularly well-received, making this adaptation a dream come true for Marvel enthusiasts.
6) Black Bag (March 14, 2025)
Despite garnering positive reviews from critics and boasting an illustrious cast, Steven Soderbergh’s spy thriller, titled “Black Bag“, didn’t gain much attention at the box office, leaving both the director and fans disappointed (as reported by The Independent). This film, marked by its stylish, clever, and innovative approach, showcases exceptional performances from Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett in an espionage tale filled with prestige, suspense, and a compelling character-driven narrative. It’s unfortunate that more moviegoers didn’t have the opportunity to watch “Black Bag“, as it stands out as one of the top films released in 2025.
5) Sorry, Baby (June 27, 2025)
In their first directorial effort, Eva Victor brings A24’s film “Sorry, Baby” to life, where her character Agnes sets off on a path of healing and personal growth following a friend’s visit, Lydie (Naomi Ackie), and a distressing incident. The movie offers a poignant exploration of its weighty themes with a dash of dry wit and genuine authenticity, making it endearing to watch. Despite a limited theatrical release, “Sorry, Baby” garnered praise from its screenings at Sundance and Cannes festivals. With its upcoming showcase at the Norwegian International Film Festival in August, it may gain further recognition.
4) Together (July 30, 2025)
In the small-screen debut of Alison Brie and Dave Franco, who are an actual married couple in real life, they play a couple whose lives take a terrifying turn after moving to the countryside under the direction of first-time feature film director Michael Shanks. Upon its release, Together received rave reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting a perfect score (although this has since dropped slightly). The movie has set high expectations for Shanks’ future projects and generated buzz about this chilling body horror spectacle. With its original storyline and eerie realism, Together stands out as a co-dependency horror film that leaves a lasting impression, making it one of the most impactful and exhilarating movies of the year.
3) Sinners (April 18, 2025)
After completing work on the Marvel Studios’ Black Panther franchise, Ryan Coogler delved into his own production, a 1932-set vampire horror movie titled Sinners. Michael B. Jordan shines in his double role as World War I veterans Smoke and Stack Moore. They join forces with Stack’s former girlfriend (Hailee Steinfeld) and their 17-year-old cousin (Miles Caton) to combat a sinister supernatural force plaguing their small-town home of Clarksdale, Mississippi. Coogler’s breathtaking storytelling and the potent use of music in the film make Sinners one of the standout movies of the year, garnering critical praise and broadening his already impressive range into new, captivating territories.
2) Warfare
The screenplay for the movie “Warfare” was created from the accounts of former Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza and his team members, and it unfolds in real time. The film portrays Mendoza’s events during an encounter with opposing forces in November 2006 following the Battle of Ramadi, providing a raw, authentic depiction based on the soldiers’ memories. This marks a departure for director Alex Garland, whose works like “Ex Machina,” “Annihilation,” “Devs,” and “Men” are known for their dreamy narratives, as “Warfare” offers an intense, high-octane story in true Garland fashion.
1) 28 Years Later (June 20, 2025)
In a fresh collaboration with the director of “28 Days Later,” Alex Garland, the much-awaited film titled “28 Years Later” was among the most significant releases this year, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history. Set nearly three decades following the initial Rage Virus outbreak, “28 Years Later” centers around Spike, portrayed by Alfie Williams, as he ventures off his island haven for the first time to the mainland. The film boasts remarkable performances by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, and Ralph Fiennes, making it an emotionally impactful and thrilling post-apocalyptic horror experience. As a precursor to more complex character development in the forthcoming sequel, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” slated for 2026, this film is poised to be one of the top movies of that year.
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2025-08-04 20:12