Upcoming Movies and Series to Watch This Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, there’s a wide array of movies and series set to entertain audiences in 2025. From heartwarming family films to high-stakes thrillers, this list covers what’s coming to theaters and streaming platforms throughout the year.
Romantic Comedies and Dramas
“Eternity”
Set for release on November 26, this high-concept romantic comedy directed by David Freyne explores the afterlife and the choices one makes about their eternal future. Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen, and Callum Turner star in this unique take on love and loss.
“Jingle Bell Heist”
This Christmas-themed comedy, also released on November 26, combines crime, romance, and humor. Olivia Holt and Connor Swindells play thieves who find themselves competing over the same target, leading to potential romantic developments.
“Zootopia 2”
The sequel to the 2016 hit “Zootopia” arrives on November 26. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman reprise their roles as Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, while Ke Huy Quan joins as a new character. The film promises to continue the adventures of the city’s animal inhabitants.
Family-Friendly Films
“The Thing With Feathers”
This British drama, released on November 28, stars Benedict Cumberbatch as a father raising two boys after his wife’s death. The film explores grief through the presence of a mysterious crow that haunts the household.
“Hamnet”
Chloé Zhao directs this historical drama, which tells the story of William Shakespeare’s son Hamnet and how his death influenced the creation of “Hamlet.” Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley portray the Bard and his wife.
“Merrily We Roll Along”
On December 5, this live-action adaptation of the Stephen Sondheim musical is set to debut. Richard Linklater directs, and the film features Jonathan Groff and Daniel Radcliffe in key roles.
Thrillers and Horror
“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2”
This horror sequel, released on December 5, follows the original game’s premise of surviving animatronic attacks. The cast includes returning actors and newcomers such as Mckenna Grace and Skeet Ulrich.
“Dust Bunny”
Bryan Fuller makes his feature-film debut with this horror thriller, starring Mads Mikkelsen as a hitman helping a girl kill a monster under her bed. Sigourney Weaver plays a supporting role.
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”
Released on December 12, this third entry in Rian Johnson’s mystery series features Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc. The film includes an ensemble cast and continues the tradition of clever whodunits.
Blockbusters and Sequels
“Avatar: Fire and Ash”
James Cameron’s long-awaited sequel to “Avatar” is set for release on December 19. It continues the story of Jake Sully and Neytiri as they face new challenges with the Ash Na’vi people and Colonel Miles Quaritch.
“Greenland 2: Migration”
This post-apocalyptic sequel, released on January 9, sees Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin return as the Garrity family. They must embark on a dangerous journey across Europe to find a new home.
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”
Nia DaCosta takes the reins for this follow-up to the 2024 film “28 Years Later.” The story centers around Jack O’Connell as a cult leader, with Ralph Fiennes reprising his role from the previous film.
Other Notable Releases
“The Housemaid”
Paul Feig directs this psychological thriller, starring Sydney Sweeney as a housemaid who uncovers dark secrets about her employer. The film is based on a novel by Freida McFadden.
“Goodbye June”
Kate Winslet makes her directorial debut with this holiday drama, which explores family dynamics as a matriarch’s health declines. The film features Helen Mirren and Toni Collette.
“Anaconda”
A reboot of the 1997 horror franchise, this comedy stars Paul Rudd and Jack Black as friends who venture into the Amazon rainforest. The film is directed by Tom Gormican.
“Marty Supreme”
Josh Safdie directs this sports dramedy inspired by the story of Marty Reisman, a table tennis player from the mid-1900s. Timothée Chalamet stars in the lead role.
“Song Sung Blue”
Craig Brewer directs this biopic musical based on a documentary about a Neil Diamond tribute band. Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson portray the band’s husband-and-wife duo.
These upcoming releases promise to keep audiences entertained throughout the year, offering something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for heartwarming stories, thrilling adventures, or mind-bending mysteries, there’s something for everyone in the world of cinema.
