5 minute read

The Film Scout

Most Anticipated Films of 2025

By John Houzer

Ah, yes, another year of yapping about movies—the most glorious, self-indulgent tradition I hold dear. Movies are my love language, my therapy, and (let’s be honest) my favorite excuse to avoid plans. It’s looking like 2025 will be a year where every trip to the theater feels like an event, and I for one am ready to devour every frame.

THE RUNNING MAN

I’ve always loved Edgar Wright’s work, so when I heard he was taking on The Running Man, I was all in. Wright, the genius behind Baby Driver and Shaun of the Dead, is reimagining this dystopian tale originally adapted from Stephen King’s novel. Starring Glen Powel, this version updates the story of a man fighting to survive in a deadly televised game show while skewering society’s obsession with reality TV.

Filmed on the gritty streets of Glasgow, the movie transforms the urban landscape into a futuristic nightmare. Wright’s dynamic visual style and knack for kinetic storytelling have me convinced this will be an exhilarating ride. The blend of action and satire is exactly what I’m hoping for, and I can’t wait to see it all unfold.

F1

As a huge fan of Top Gun: Maverick, I’m beyond excited for Joseph Kosinski’s F1. This high-octane film dives into the world of Formula 1 racing, with Brad Pitt as a seasoned driver making a dramatic return to the track and Damson Idris as his ambitious young teammate. What really blows my mind is that the filmmakers shot parts of this movie during real Grand Prix events. Kosinski’s ability to balance heart-pounding action with genuine character drama has me convinced this will be a winner. Racing fans and movie lovers alike are in for something special.

SUPERMAN

James Gunn directing a Superman movie? Sign me up. Gunn’s work on Guardians of the Galaxy has shown he knows how to bring humor, heart, and epic stakes to the superhero genre. David Corenswet stars as Superman, and Rachel Brosnahan is stepping into the role of Lois Lane.

Let’s be real, though—the true star of this movie is Krypto, Superman’s dog. He’s ridiculously cute and looks like he’ll steal every scene. Honestly, if you’re not excited about seeing Krypto, are you even human? I’m happy to see Gunn’s fresh take on the Man of Steel. It’s about time we got a Superman story that leans into optimism and hope rather than brooding darkness. Gunn has even consulted comic book historians to ensure this movie honors Superman’s legacy while resonating with today’s audiences. I’m optimistic this could redefine what it means to be a hero on the big screen.

MAGAZINE DREAMS

Jonathan Majors delivers what many are already calling a career-defining performance in Magazine Dreams. Directed by Elijah Bynum, this character study follows Killian Maddox, an amateur bodybuilder whose relentless pursuit of perfection takes a dark and emotional toll.

This film has been through a rollercoaster of a journey. While Magazine Dreams debuted to critical acclaim at Sundance, the release was overshadowed by allegations of domestic abuse against Majors in 2023. The legal battle and public fallout delayed the film’s release and cast a shadow over its reception.

I’m genuinely happy the film is finally making it to theaters. This wasn’t just a tough period for Majors, it was a trying time for the entire crew who poured their hearts into this project. Despite everything, the film’s raw power and Majors’ intense performance have prevailed. I think Majors has the talent to come back stronger, and this film proves just how electrifying he can be.

Magazine Dreams is about much more than its surrounding drama, it’s a gut-wrenching exploration of ambition, isolation, and humanity. It’s the kind of movie that sparks conversation, and I can’t wait to see the impact it has.

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – The Final Reckoning

I’m not ready to say goodbye to Ethan Hunt, but if anyone knows how to go out with a bang, it’s Tom Cruise. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning marks the end of the beloved franchise, and I’m already bracing myself for the tumult of emotions. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, this film promises to be the most ambitious and heartfelt MI chapter yet.

Of course, Cruise is doing his own jaw-dropping stunts, this time hanging off a moving biplane during takeoff. Who else does that? The film’s globe-trotting locations, from Norwegian fjords to bustling cityscapes, guarantee stunning visuals. What I’m most excited about, though, is how this movie will tie together the intricate plotting and emotional stakes which have made this series so iconic. It’s the end of an era.

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