As 2025 unfolds, Hollywood has already delivered a cinematic rollercoaster of blockbusters, indie gems, and genre-defining surprises. With the year only a quarter through, audiences and critics alike are buzzing about the films that have hit theaters and streaming platforms, alongside the heavy hitters still to come. From superhero epics to chilling horror tales, here’s our roundup of the 10 best Hollywood movies of 2025 so far—based on critical acclaim, audience reactions, and industry anticipation.
1. Captain America: Brave New World
Kicking off the year with a bang, Captain America: Brave New World (released February 14, 2025) has redefined the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase Five. Starring Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, the new Cap, this action-packed thriller blends political intrigue with jaw-dropping set pieces. Critics have praised its bold narrative and Mackie’s commanding performance, making it the most anticipated film of the year according to Fandango’s 9,000 surveyed users. It’s already a box office titan and a fan favorite. The 10 Best Hollywood Movies of 2025
2. The Monkey
Based on Stephen King’s short story, The Monkey (released February 21, 2025) has emerged as an early horror standout. Directed by an up-and-coming visionary, this tale of cursed toys and familial trauma has unsettled audiences with its eerie atmosphere and standout performances. While some X posts rank it among the year’s disappointments, its chilling visuals and slow-burn tension have earned it a cult following and critical nods.
3. Holland
Nicole Kidman’s latest thriller, Holland (premiered March 9, 2025, at SXSW), has set the tone for prestige cinema in 2025. Playing a seemingly perfect Midwestern teacher uncovering her husband’s dark secrets, Kidman delivers a performance that’s already generating Oscar buzz. Paired with Matthew Macfadyen and Gael García Bernal, this Prime Video release balances suspense and emotional depth, proving Kidman’s unstoppable streak continues.
4. Den of Thieves 2: Pantera
Gerard Butler returns in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera (released January 10, 2025), a sequel that’s outmuscling its predecessor. Despite Butler’s real-life injury during filming, this heist thriller has won over action fans with its gritty realism and high-octane chases. Streaming on Netflix since early March, it’s climbing the charts and splitting opinions—some call it a top-tier sequel, while others rank it lower on 2025’s action list.
5. Drop
Blumhouse’s Drop (premiered March 10, 2025, at SXSW, theatrical release in April) is a popcorn horror hit that’s already making waves. Starring Meghann Fahy as a single mom facing a nightmarish date, this Christopher Landon-directed flick mixes suspense with dark humor. Critics have lauded its pulpy thrills, positioning it as a sleeper hit poised to dominate the spring box office.
6. Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning
Tom Cruise’s presumed final outing as Ethan Hunt, Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning (slated for May 23, 2025), is already generating feverish excitement. Early test screenings have leaked whispers of mind-blowing stunts and a fitting end to the franchise. Ranking second on Fandango’s most anticipated list, it’s poised to be a summer juggernaut—expect it to climb this ranking by year’s end.
7. Jurassic World Rebirth
Set for a July 2, 2025, release, Jurassic World Rebirth has fans roaring with anticipation. Promising a fresh take on the dino-filled franchise with a new cast and eco-thriller vibes, it’s third on Fandango’s hype list. While it hasn’t hit theaters yet, its trailers and behind-the-scenes buzz suggest it could be one of 2025’s defining blockbusters.
8. Ballerina
The John Wick universe expands with Ballerina (June 6, 2025), starring Ana de Armas as a deadly assassin. Early footage promises balletic violence and a gripping revenge tale, landing it fourth on Fandango’s most anticipated films. Action aficionados are counting the days, and it’s expected to carve its own legacy in the Wick saga.
9. Good Boy
A horror film told entirely from a dog’s perspective, Good Boy (premiered March 8, 2025, at SXSW) is 2025’s most inventive scare-fest so far. This SXSW darling has critics raving about its unique POV and ghostly chills. It’s a bold experiment that’s paying off, cementing its spot as an early standout.
10. The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Marvel’s first family arrives with The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 25, 2025), rounding out our list with sky-high expectations. Fifth on Fandango’s anticipation rankings, this reboot promises cosmic adventure and a stellar cast. While still months away, its buzz as a potential MCU game-changer makes it a must-watch contender.
honorable Mentions
- Smile 2 (streaming on Amazon Prime since March 4): A horror sequel that’s spooking audiences anew.
- A Complete Unknown (released earlier in 2025): Timothée Chalamet’s Bob Dylan biopic, already an Oscars 2025 Best Picture nominee at 80% on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Wicked Part Two (November 2025): The sequel to 2024’s musical smash, seventh on Fandango’s list and poised for glory.
What’s Next?
With Cannes Film Festival contenders like Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest and Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible finale on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for Hollywood. Stay tuned as we update this list with more releases and surprises—because in Tinseltown, the best is often yet to come.
