2025 Holiday Movie Guide: What’s New in Theaters This Christmas
The holiday movie season is upon us. What films are destined to become blockbusters this season? Here is a look at some of the most anticipated movies heading to theaters just in time for the holidays.
Movies Already Out in Theaters
Wicked: For Good
Thanksgiving week is the official start of the holiday movie season, meaning that some of the biggest films have already made their theatrical debuts. The biggest movie release of the last few weeks is undoubtedly "Wicked: For Good." The finale of the two-part musical event stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande working together to save Oz. You will be left singing the musical numbers for weeks after experiencing this major cinematic event.
Hamnet
The fictionalized story that details the story of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" is the basis for the family drama "Hamnet." The story follows a man traveling to London to work in the theater industry while his wife stays back and takes care of their family in the country. A tragedy initially tears the couple apart until they find their way back to each other in the emotional tale.
Zootopia 2
Families have been flocking to theaters to check out the new "Zootopia 2" film. The animated sequel features the usual suspects of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde working as detectives investigating Gary De'Snake, a pit viper character attempting to clear his family's name. While the movie is geared toward children, it also features mature themes that adults will appreciate.
Ella McCray
"Ella McCray" was released on December 12 to much fanfare. The movie from Oscar-winning filmmaker James L. Brooks stars Emma Mackey, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Woody Harrelson in the dramady that centers on a young woman being thrust into the political spotlight when she is named governor of her home state of Rhode Island. The film's protagonist must balance the demands of her new leadership role with her personal life as a young woman finding her way in life.
Movies Coming Soon to Theaters
Avatar: Fire and Ash
The coming weeks will feature more movies hitting the big screen. Moviegoers are eagerly anticipating the December 19 release of James Cameron's third installment in the sci-fi franchise "Avatar." "Avatar: Fire and Ash" stars Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña battling a new enemy in Pandora. New biomes and new clans offer a new addition to the film while keeping the basic premise intact. Film critics recommend seeing this film in 3D for the best viewing experience.
The Housemaid
Also being released on December 19 is the psychological thriller "The Housemaid." Based on the best-selling Freida McFadden novel, Sydney Sweeney stars as a woman with a troubled past who accepts a job as a live-in housemaid for a wealthy couple, played by Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar. Shortly after accepting the job, Sweeney's character begins to discover that her new employers harbor dark secrets, exploring a world where perceived perfection is an illusion.
The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants
The best family movie coming out on December 19 is "The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants." SpongeBob and the gang are back together on the big screen for the franchise's fourth feature film. This installment follows SpongeBob's adventures deep in the ocean, going up against the ghost of the Flying Dutchman, an evil ghost pirate.
Marty Supreme
Looking ahead to Christmas Day, a number of new releases will give families plenty of options. Timothée Chalamet stars as Marty Reisman in the film "Marty Supreme." The sports dramedy set in the 1950s follows the life of a shoe salesman with a dream of becoming a world table tennis champion. Directed by Josh Safdie, the feel-good movie also features Odessa A’zion and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Song Sung Blue
Based on a true story, "Song Sung Blue" is a musical drama that follows the musical aspirations of a Vietnam vet played by Hugh Jackman. Kate Hudson plays another struggling musician who teams up with Jackman's character to form a Neil Diamond tribute band as they fall in love off stage.
Anaconda
Also coming to theaters on Christmas Day, the action comedy film "Anaconda" is a remake of the original 1997 film. Starring Paul Rudd and Jack Black, the reboot offers a fresh take as a group of childhood friends head to the jungle to try to remake their favorite horror flick from the 1990s. The four friends get more than they bargain for when a giant anaconda crashes the party, putting their lives in danger.
There is no shortage of great flicks to check out this holiday season. From family-friendly animated films to thrillers that will have you on the edge of your seat, Hollywood is offering up something for everyone in the weeks ahead.
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