I can’t start the year without sharing a list of what movies I look forward to most.
Last year there were quite a few surprises and I hope that I will be surprised with more amazing films this year and that my top 10 most anticipated movies won’t disappoint me. All I can do is keep my fingers crossed. Anyway, here are my top 10 most anticipated movies of the year:
10. Happy Gilmore 2
I’m a Sandman apologist and this beloved Adam Sandler comedy is getting a sequel after nearly three decades. I am a fan of the original and rewatched it last year, and it still holds up. The Sandman returns with a few awesome actors already cast and I know we’ll once again get a few cool cameos. Unfortunately this is another straight to Netflix release.
9. Michael
This biopic about Michael Jackson promises to delve deep into the superstarts rise, showcasing the iconic moments. MJ was one of the greatest if not the greatest entertainers of all-time, he’s definitely one of my all-time favourite artists. So I can’t wait to finally see the life of the King of Pop. Jaafar Jackson will star as Michael.
8. Karate Kid: Legend
The legacy of “The Karate Kid” continues with this new installment, set to introduce fresh faces while paying homage to the franchise’s roots. I’m just happy to see both Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan back. Hopefully this will tie in with the last few episodes of Cobra Kai.
7. Thunderbolts*
Marvel’s answer to the anti-hero ensemble trend, “Thunderbolts” brings together a team of complex characters. This might turn out to be a darker comedy with the introduction of Sentry. And I can’t wait for the fresh dynamics and thrilling action sequences to keep us fans on the edge of our seats.
6. Fantastic Four: First Steps
Marvel Studios is finally rebooting the iconic superhero family, and anticipation is through the roof. I might not have been all in on the cast, but I’m still excited to see Marvel’s first family. As the Fantastic Four make their MCU debut, this film promises to set the tone for their integration into the larger Marvel universe.
5. Captain America: Brave New World
Sam Wilson takes the mantle in this highly anticipated installment, navigating the challenges of leading as Captain America. And with Harrison Ford now as President Ross aka Red Hulk, there’s no guessing where this film can go. Hopefully it won’t be as bad as that fourth Thor movie, which shall not be named.
4. Wicked: For Good
Wicked was one of the biggest surprises for me in 2024. I love musicals, but for some reason I didn’t think I’d like Wicked until I watched it. The second part of the adaptation of the beloved musical “Wicked” dives deeper into the friendship and conflicts between Glinda and Elphaba. Fan are eagerly waiting for these witches, and I’m one of those fans.
3. Mickey 17
Bong Joon-ho’s sci-fi adaptation of Edward Ashton’s novel promises a thought-provoking and visually stunning film. With Robert Pattinson in the lead, “Mickey 17” could redefine the boundaries of existential storytelling in cinema. Bong Joon-ho is a phenomenal filmmaker and I watched the trailer and it got me really excited.
2. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Ethan Hunt’s story reaches its thrilling conclusion in the final chapter of this action-packed series. Known for jaw-dropping stunts and relentless pacing, “The Final Reckoning” is set to be a cinematic event of epic proportions. What will Tom Cruise do next? I guess we’ll have to wait and see how crazy he can get.
1. Superman
James Gunn’s “Superman” is at the top of my list. Not only does it bring back the Man of Steel back to his roots, but it’s the start of whole new franchise. The film promises to explore Superman’s ideals, humanity, and hope in a way that resonates with modern audiences. It’s the perfect way to usher in a new era for DC films. And that trailer definitely promised something special.
Honourable Mentions
While these films didn’t make my top 10, I’m still excited to watch them.
Predator: Badlands: A gritty return to the “Predator” franchise.
Lilo & Stitch: A live-action reimagining of the beloved Disney classic.
Avatar: Fire and Ash: James Cameron’s latest dive into Pandora.
Zootopia 2: A sequel to the charming and socially relevant animated hit.
Final Destination: Bloodlines: A fresh spin on the horror franchise.
Jurassic World: Rebirth: Dinosaurs and Scarlett Johansson, what’s there not to love?
With such an exciting lineup, 2025 promises to be a banner year for cinema. What movies are you most looking forward to?
