May’s MUST-SEE Movies: You Won’t Believe What’s Hitting UK Cinemas!

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Generally speaking, it’s usually during May that the summer movie season kicks off, and this year is no exception, as there’s an abundance of highly anticipated releases scheduled for the coming weeks.

The month has kicked off quite well with Thunderbolts, a highly praised Marvel movie, but it’s the upcoming installment of the Mission: Impossible series that seems to have movie enthusiasts buzzing, set to hit screens this coming Wednesday, 21st [day].

This week, I can hardly contain my excitement as another masterpiece from the inimitable Wes Anderson is about to grace our screens. Fresh off its glitzy debut at the Cannes Film Festival, “The Phoenician Scheme” promises yet another delightful dose of his signature quirky charm, landing in UK cinemas soon.

Currently, two movie series – Final Destination and Karate Kid – are releasing their latest installments after a while, along with Disney’s newest live-action production, and some captivating films starring actors like Nicolas Cage, Rosamund Pike, Jenna Ortega, and Carey Mulligan. Seems like there’s a lot to look forward to!

We’ve curated a list of fantastic movies worth watching this month, either watch the video or keep reading to discover our recommendations.

Best films released in the UK this month: May 2025

Thunderbolts*

Release date: Thursday 1st May in cinemas

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I must say that the most recent addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), centering around the enigmatic band of anti-heroes, has left me utterly spellbound. This fresh installment marks a significant comeback for the franchise, having been somewhat overshadowed by a series of less successful films, such as Captain America: Brave New World. The introduction of Lewis Pullman as Bob/The Sentry adds an exciting new dimension to the storyline.

The narrative unfolds after an unforeseen partnership is established among a motley crew, which includes Florence Pugh’s character Yelena Belova and Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes, setting up the subsequent phases in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and leading towards Avengers: Doomsday.

The Surfer

Release date: Friday 9th May in cinemas

In this spine-chilling psychological thriller directed by Lorcan Finnegan (Vivarium), Nicolas Cage plays a character who finds himself entangled in a growing dispute following a trip to the beach with his son, where he used to live as a child.

In addition, Julian McMahon is featured in this movie that made its debut in the Midnight Screenings segment at the 2020 Cannes Film Festival and has received numerous accolades from film critics.

Final Destination: Bloodlines

Release date: Wednesday 14th May in cinemas

In the sixth part of this prolonged horror franchise, you can expect additional instances of the series’ signature creative deaths, as well as the last on-screen portrayal of the late actor, Tony Todd.

The story once more centers on a gang of adolescents being brutally eliminated sequentially, with the focus this time shifting to a college student named Kaitlyn Santa Juana, who keeps having a chilling dream predicting her family’s downfall. In an attempt to avoid this grim fate, she decides to return home in search of someone who can halt it from happening.

Hurry Up Tomorrow

Release date: Friday 16th May in cinemas

This fascinating thriller is linked to Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye’s latest album with the same title, and features Jenna Ortega, Barry Keoghan, and Tesfaye in a fictionalized portrayal of himself. Trey Edward Shults (It Comes at Night) is responsible for its direction.

The brief summary hints at the depiction of Tesfaye, a troubled musician with sleepless nights, teetering on the edge of a mental collapse. This character is drawn into a profound journey exploring the meaning of existence by an enigmatic figure.

Hallow Road

Release date: Friday 16th May in cinemas

In this gripping thriller, Rosamund Pike takes the lead under the direction of Babak Anvari, who has previously worked on Under the Shadow and I Came By. Additionally, Matthew Rhys is part of the cast.

Pike and Rhys portray a worried couple who receive a troubling late-night phone call from their teenage daughter. She had unintentionally struck a pedestrian with her vehicle. As concerned parents, they rush to the location before anyone else discovers the incident scene.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Release date: Wednesday 21st May in cinemas

Based on all indications, from the movie title to the promotional efforts, it seems that the eighth installment of the franchise could mark Tom Cruise’s final appearance as IMF agent Ethan Hunt, so we should anticipate some incredibly risky stunts and action scenes in this movie.

The storyline will seamlessly carry over from “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning” in 2023, featuring Ethan Hunt and his team as they persist in their efforts to thwart Gabriel’s attempts to acquire an advanced artificial intelligence system called The Entity.

The Phoenician Scheme

Release date: Friday 23rd May in cinemas

In a fresh addition to his repertoire, filmmaker Wes Anderson delves into the world of spy-themed comedies, employing his distinctive, colorful, and eccentric approach.

As a devoted admirer, I’d put it like this: I find myself in the starring role as Zsa-zsa Korda, a prosperous entrepreneur, accompanied by my sister, Sister Leisl (portrayed by Mia Threapleton), as we venture into uncharted business territories. However, our journey isn’t smooth sailing, as cunning tycoons, ominous terrorists from foreign lands, and relentless assassins set their sights on us.

Lilo & Stitch

Release date: Friday 23rd May in cinemas

2002’s animated film has been transformed into a live-action production, making it the newest Disney title to receive such treatment. The director of “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On”, Dean Fleischer Camp, is now responsible for the cameras in this new adaptation.

In this storyline, you’ll find a common thread: A solitary young woman residing in Hawaii takes in a renegade extraterrestrial, unknowingly harboring one designed for devastation, all while evading alien pursuers who are tracking her down following his illicit breakout to Earth.

The Ballad of Wallis Island

Release date: Friday 30th May in cinemas

In this delightful comedy-drama, Tim Key and Tom Basden star as the main characters, a pair who penned the script. The story revolves around an unusual millionaire, portrayed by Key, who endeavors to bring back together his favorite folk duo for a private performance on his island.

In this movie, Carey Mulligan gives an outstanding performance portraying the ex-musical and romantic partner of Herb McGwyer, played by Basden. Meanwhile, Key provides side-splitting humor with his signature wit, resulting in a film that’s both heartwarmingly tender and uproariously funny.

The Salt Path

Release date: Friday 30th May in cinemas

In this real-life tale, the lead roles are played by Jason Isaacs and Gillian Anderson. The storyline is derived from Raynor Winn’s 2018 memoir, which chronicles a couple who embark on a year-long journey along the coast due to their encountering multiple hardships.

After being forced out of their farm and left homeless through an eviction, they encountered hardship alongside Moth (Isaacs) who was diagnosed with a seemingly fatal yet rare illness. However, they both found new life and vitality during their journey along England’s longest continuous trail.

Karate Kid: Legends

Release date: Friday 30th May in cinemas

As a dedicated cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that the latest installment in the Karate Kid saga, released after a decade, is here! This sixth movie, set three years post the TV spin-off Cobra Kai, introduces Ben Wang as our new protagonist.

As a film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the franchise I’m eagerly anticipating brings back Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio! The plot hints at an exciting journey where Li Fong (Wang) – a kung fu prodigy – learns from both Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso, mastering the art of merging kung fu with karate. This fusion promises an epic martial arts battle that’s sure to leave me in awe!

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2025-05-02 17:06