Nowadays, online streaming services such as Netflix or Prime Video are what people typically turn to disconnect from reality. Simply press a button, and a gallery of shows and movies, old and new, is at your disposal. Nonetheless, certain releases still tend to drag me off my couch and to my local movie theater, enticing me so much that I cannot wait a month to view it at home. This summer, especially, Hollywood has been busy, with multiple releases making me want to plan summer trips to the theater with my family and friends. Below, The Panther ranks the most anticipated movies for summer 2025, in no particular order.
“Materialists”
Chris Evans, Pedro Pascal and Dakota Johnson hit the big screen in this romantic comedy about a New York matchmaker who gets caught up in a love triangle of her own. Based on the trailer, this movie will serve as the perfect heartache and yearning that all hopeless romantics dream of. Whether the female lead ends up with Evans’ character, a past lover who still envisions a future with her, or with Pascal’s, a wealthy man who appears to be the best match, the film seems to be perfect for summer romance. The only concern is that it is created by A24 and Celine Song, meaning the film is likely to have a plot twist or ending that leaves me more void than filled with joy. Regardless, this is one film I will definitely be watching once it hits theaters on June 13.
“How to Train Your Dragon”
A childhood animation classic will be brought to life on June 13, led by Mason Thames and Nico Parker. A story many teenagers and young adults have held close to their hearts for years, expectations for this live-action film are high. With the recent opening of the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk land at Universal’s Epic Universe, more people are becoming acquainted with the story and its fictional world. Fans and newcomers alike expect to be immersed in the world through the film, as they have been through the theme park and original animation films. The lovable characters, highly regarded soundtrack and the parallels seen between the animation and the live-action in the trailer make this film a must-watch for everyone.
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps”
The newest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe brings back a story fans have loved since its comic book days. “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” will tell the challenging adventures of a group of superheroes who gained their powers following a space mission. This film is set in the 1960s and features an all-star cast including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. It is expected to include everything ranging from action to romance, as well as a futuristic feel that is meant to credit the original Fantastic Four universe that had been lacking in previous reboots of the story. Everything released regarding this installment reflects consideration and dedication to upholding the original story presented in the comic books. Whether you are a MCU fanatic or not, this film seems like a promising way to spend a summer afternoon with your family once it airs on July 25.
“Jurassic World Rebirth”
Like “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which releases July 2, will help ensure the action/science fiction genre is thoroughly represented throughout the summer. As the sequel to “Jurassic World Dominion,” this movie will cover what occurs five years after the previous film. With leading actors Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey, people from across multiple fan bases are likely to go see this film. Despite this, the graphics and plot line revealed in the trailer offer a thrilling, action-packed film that will both impress long-time Jurassic Park fans and those who are only just now being introduced to this fandom. Nothing beats summer vacation like battling dinosaurs on a deserted island, and for that, “Jurassic World Rebirth” will be a summer 2025 classic.
“F1”
Last, but surely not least, is “F1” starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris. This action-packed sports film will deliver a break from the other movies being released during the summer, and comes out on June 27. Featuring real Formula 1 racers such as Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the film will provide an authentic look into the world of professional car racing. Following the fictional Formula 1 racer Sonny Hayes and his return to the tracks years after a near-fatal accident, this film sets the tone for a story filled with redemption, rivalry and fierce competition. As the actual Formula 1 world and its racers continuously gain more popularity and fame in society, this movie is the perfect way to get people further invested in the sport.
Regardless of what your summer consists of, consider breaking away for a few hours here and there to immerse yourself in some of The Panther’s most anticipated films for summer 2025. After all, nothing quite replaces the feeling of sitting down with popcorn and an icee as the theater lights dim and a movie begins.
