Highly Anticipated Movie Sequels Premiering in 2025

Sequels have long held a unique place in cinematic storytelling. They bring back beloved characters, create thrilling worlds, and usually raise the stakes. In 2025, movie fans will be delighted. Big and small studios are set to release some of the most anticipated sequels in years.

This year’s sequels for 2025 include action-packed thrillers, fun family animations, and much-anticipated franchise films. You can enjoy the magic in theatres or at home with streaming premieres. The film calendar is full of exciting upcoming releases. In this guide, we highlight the biggest sequels coming in 2025. We also look at why each one is worth waiting for.

Action and Sci-Fi: Returning Heroes and Expanding Universes

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (Part Two)

Release Date: May 2025

Format: Theatrical Release

Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in what is expected to be the final chapter of the Mission: Impossible saga. Following the dramatic cliffhanger from Part One, the second half promises high-stakes espionage, globe-trotting stunts, and the series’ trademark adrenaline-fuelled pacing. With Christopher McQuarrie once again directing, fans can expect a spectacular farewell to one of cinema’s most iconic action franchises.

Avatar 3: The Seed Bearer

Release Date: December 2025

Format: Theatrical Release and Likely Streaming Premiere (Disney+)

James Cameron’s Avatar series continues its decade-spanning storytelling with the third instalment. Set to delve deeper into the oceans and spiritual lore of Pandora, The Seed Bearer aims to push technical boundaries once again. With returning cast members like Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña, this sequel will expand the Na’vi mythos while introducing new characters and conflicts.

Comic Book Worlds and Superhero Sagas

Spider-Man 4 (MCU)

Release Date: TBA 2025

Format: Theatrical Release

While plot details remain tightly under wraps, the fourth entry in Tom Holland’s Spider-Man series is among the most hotly anticipated upcoming releases. The conclusion of No Way Home left Peter Parker at a dramatic crossroads, and fans are eager to see what direction the character will take next. Speculation suggests a darker tone and potentially new alliances within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Deadpool 3

Release Date: Mid-2025

Format: Theatrical and Streaming Premiere (Disney+ after theatrical run)

Ryan Reynolds reprises his role as the wisecracking mercenary in a film that officially integrates Deadpool into the MCU. Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine is also set to return, raising excitement to fever pitch. Expect genre-defying humour, chaotic action sequences, and a heavy dose of fan service.

Animation: Sequels for All Ages

Zootopia 2

Release Date: November 2025

Format: Theatrical Release and Disney+ Streaming Premiere

Disney revisits the vibrant, species-diverse metropolis of Zootopia with a sequel expected to follow Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde on another adventure. While the plot remains largely unknown, the film is expected to maintain its clever social commentary and rich world-building, appealing to both children and adults.

The Bad Guys 2

Release Date: August 2025

Format: Theatrical Release and Later Streaming Premiere

DreamWorks’ charming criminal ensemble returns in The Bad Guys 2. Following the first film’s mix of stylish animation and witty dialogue, the sequel introduces a new group of adversaries, adding complexity to the team’s reformation arc. This light-hearted caper is likely to be a hit with families and animation fans alike.

Thriller and Drama: High Stakes and Emotional Payoff

The Accountant 2

Release Date: TBA 2025

Format: Theatrical and VOD

Ben Affleck reprises his role as Christian Wolff in this follow-up to the 2016 thriller. Plot details are scarce, but the sequel is expected to further explore the character’s dual identity as a forensic accountant and vigilante. The first film’s blend of action and psychological depth set a strong precedent for this continuation.

Nobody 2

Release Date: August 2025

Format: Theatrical Release and Later Streaming Premiere

Bob Odenkirk’s unexpected transformation into an action star gets a second outing. Nobody 2 promises more bone-crunching fight sequences and deeper insight into Hutch Mansell’s mysterious past. With director Timo Tjahjanto on board, expect a grittier and more stylised sequel.

Comedy and Reboots: Familiar Faces, New Twists

The Naked Gun (Reboot)

Release Date: Summer 2025

Format: Streaming Premiere (Paramount+)

Liam Neeson takes the baton from Leslie Nielsen in a reboot of the slapstick classic. Playing Frank Drebin Jr., Neeson leads a cast that includes comedy veterans and newcomers. Akiva Schaffer directs and Seth MacFarlane produces this reboot. It mixes nostalgic humour with modern absurdity.

Horror and Suspense: Revisiting Nightmares

Final Destination: Bloodlines

Release Date: May 2025

Format: Theatrical and Streaming Premiere

Bloodlines is a prequel to the popular horror series. It looks into how the creepy chain-reaction deaths began. New characters and inventive set pieces promise to reinvigorate the franchise. For long-time fans, the return of the franchise’s original creators adds a level of credibility to this fresh chapter.

28 Years Later

Release Date: TBA 2025

Format: Theatrical Release

The long-anticipated sequel to 28 Weeks Later continues the apocalyptic saga of rage-infected Britain. Fans of the gritty, high-intensity series have waited over a decade for this third entry. Plot details and casting are still to be confirmed. Expectations are high for a return to the franchise’s grounded horror and emotional realism.

Musical and Fantasy Worlds

Wicked: Part Two

Release Date: November 2025

Format: Theatrical and Streaming (Peacock, post-release)

After the success of Wicked: Part One, the final chapter of the Broadway show wraps up the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda. Wicked: Part Two features Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in lead roles, with Jon M. Chu directing. It promises a grand and emotional finale.

Streaming Premieres: Big Stories, Small Screens

Predator: Killer of Killers

Release Date: June 2025

Format: Streaming Premiere (Hulu)

This animated anthology dives into the Predator franchise. It explores battles between Predators and warriors across history. The film features different timelines, like feudal Japan and World War II. It draws in long-time fans and also welcomes newcomers.

2025 Is the Year of the Sequel

In 2025, movie sequels will bring thrilling moments. From grand space adventures to deep character stories, there’s much to look forward to. Studios are growing favourite franchises. This means audiences can look forward to stories that expand and enrich their beloved narratives.

This year’s new releases offer something for everyone. You can enjoy them at the cinema or add them to your streaming watchlist. Sequels might not always be original, but in 2025, they promise ambition, quality, and lots of fun.

Act now: Save the date, check your streaming subscriptions, and prepare to dive back into your favourite stories. They come with fresh twists, higher stakes, and a cinematic feel.