The world of movies in 2025 is a mix of nostalgia, innovation, and creativity. Sequels and reboots are everywhere, but they’re not simply recycling old ideas. Many filmmakers are taking familiar stories and characters and giving them a fresh spin. This year represents a balance between honoring what made these stories beloved and finding new ways to make them resonate today. From superheroes like Superman and the Fantastic Four to animated classics like Lilo & Stitch, these films challenge the assumption that reboots lack originality. We're going to cover some of the sequels and reboots that are set to release this year.

Wolf Man

"Wolf Man," releasing this January, taps into raw, universal fears about the beast within all of us. Directed by horror genius Leigh Whannell, known for his unique perspective in films like The Invisible Man, the story centers on a family trapped in a farmhouse as the father undergoes a horrifying werewolf transformation. Starring Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner, the movie strips the classic 1941 story down to its emotional core. By focusing on human vulnerability and tension rather than standard jump scares, "Wolf Man" promises a gripping psychological horror that feels as much about personal struggles as it is about actual werewolves.

Disney’s Snow White

Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White hits theaters in March, bringing the iconic fairytale into modern times. Rachel Zegler leads as the beloved princess, and the script comes partly from Greta Gerwig, known for her sharp storytelling in movies like Little Women. There’s some criticism about the CGI-rendered dwarves, but the film holds potential thanks to its creators and cast. Marc Webb, the director behind The Amazing Spider-Man, has brought life to romantic, character-driven stories before, which makes this adaptation worth keeping an eye on.

The Wedding Banquet

The Wedding Banquet may not have the brand power of Disney or Marvel, but its story aims to connect on a deeper level. Created by director Andrew Ahn, the remake updates Ang Lee’s 1993 indie classic about a gay man’s struggle to appease his traditional parents. Bowen Yang, Kelly Marie Tran, and Lily Gladstone headline this touching, human story set for release in April. Rather than relying on flashy visuals or high-concept drama, this film emphasizes themes of family, culture, and identity in a way that feels both timeless and timely.

Lilo & Stitch

Fans of Lilo & Stitch are cautiously optimistic about May’s live-action remake. There’s always concern over how Disney adapts its animated classics, but the involvement of original creator Chris Sanders raises expectations. Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch, with Dean Fleischer Camp, the creative mind behind Marcel the Shell With Shoes On, stepping in as director. The quirky humor and heartfelt tone of the original story remain intact, with a talented young cast breathing life into Lilo and Nani. This movie is a chance to rediscover the magic of a story about love and belonging.

How to Train Your Dragon

DreamWorks is entering the live-action territory with How to Train Your Dragon. Slated for release in June, the film reintroduces audiences to Hiccup, Toothless, and the fantastical world of Berk. Mason Thames takes on the role of Hiccup, while experienced director Dean DeBlois guides the project, making sure it stays true to the adventurous spirit of the animated original. This adaptation aims to bring more realistic visuals to the screen without sacrificing the heartfelt connection that made the series a favorite.

Superman

James Gunn’s reboot of Superman, arriving in July, has fans anticipating a fresh take on the iconic hero. This isn’t the stoic, brooding Clark Kent of recent years. Instead, Gunn promises a more hopeful and classic portrayal of Superman, played by David Corenswet. The story sets Clark in a world where superheroes already exist, adding layers of complexity to his role as a symbol of optimism. Supported by Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, this movie represents a major shift in tone for the DC Universe.

The Fantastic Four

Marvel is bringing The Fantastic Four back to the big screen with First Steps, set in an alternate 1960s timeline. This version reimagines Marvel’s first family as both brilliant scientists and superheroes, blending retro charm with modern stakes. Directed by Matt Shakman of WandaVision fame, the film introduces Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the titular team. With the Silver Surfer signaling the arrival of Galactus, this is a story of both intergalactic peril and family dynamics, offering more than just the typical superhero fare.

Star Trek: Section 31

The Star Trek universe boldly expands with Star Trek: Section 31, an exclusive Paramount+ movie starring Michelle Yeoh. This film delves into an intriguing yet shadowy corner of the Star Trek timeline, set between the original William Shatner-led movies and the Next Generation series. Michelle Yeoh reprises her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou, a character known for her moral complexity and fierce determination. Fans will get to see her venture into the covert Section 31, a top-secret organization dealing with threats to the Federation that operate outside traditional boundaries. With its focus on espionage and Yeoh’s commanding presence, this spin-off promises to offer a grittier and more mysterious addition to the Star Trek franchise.

Captain America: Brave New World

Anthony Mackie steps up in Captain America: Brave New World, solidifying his role as Sam Wilson, the new Captain America. After taking on the iconic shield from Steve Rogers in Avengers: Endgame and Disney+'s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam now leads the charge in what is the 35th Marvel Cinematic Universe film. The story dives into a thrilling political conspiracy, with none other than Harrison Ford playing the U.S. President, who also doubles as the terrifying Red Hulk. This film brings high stakes and a refreshing take on the Captain America legacy while showcasing Sam’s unique leadership style and moral compass. Fans can expect heart-pounding action, sharp political commentary, and an expansion of the MCU’s ongoing storyline.

Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning

Ethan Hunt’s adventures come to a thrilling conclusion with Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning. This eighth and final entry in the iconic action franchise sees Tom Cruise return to his celebrated role, daring audiences to keep up with the series’ hallmark breathtaking stunts and intense plot twists. After the lukewarm reception of Dead Reckoning Part One, this film seeks to redeem and reinvigorate the franchise by delivering a satisfying send-off to Cruise’s Ethan Hunt. Promising high-octane sequences and emotional stakes, The Final Reckoning will give fans one last wild ride as Ethan and his team confront challenges that could change their world forever.

28 Years Later

Mark your calendars for June as director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 Years Later, the long-awaited third chapter in their genre-defining zombie franchise. Picking up nearly three decades after the outbreak that ravaged humanity in 28 Days Later, the film is about the long-term consequences of a pandemic-stressed world. It also sets the stage for a new trilogy, blending psychological drama with the teeth-clenching terror the series is known for. With Boyle back in the director’s seat and Garland’s sharp storytelling, this installment has all the makings of a thriller that breathes new life into the genre.

Jurassic World: Rebirth

The dinosaurs are back, and they’re ready for a fresh start. Jurassic World: Rebirth reboots the beloved franchise with a new vision directed by Gareth Edwards, known for his work on Rogue One. The movie aims to recapture the magic of the original Jurassic Park. The themes of this movie are coexistence and the consequences of humanity’s hubris. Rebirth introduces audiences to a world where dinosaurs and humans must adapt to one another in unprecedented ways. The promise of updated visuals and an imaginative approach to this prehistoric playground guarantees that Jurassic World: Rebirth will be a summer blockbuster to remember.