Sci-fi enthusiasts, take note—2025 is going to be a massive year for the franchise. If you’re a fan of space exploration, time loops, AI conundrums, or mutant dinosaurs, there’s something in the works for every type of science fiction fan. From highly anticipated sequels to radical new tales, these are the 12 sci-fi movies everyone’s buzzing about as we head into the new year.
1. Elio
Pixar ventures back into science fiction with Elio, a movie that promises emotion, humor, and an awful lot of intergalactic imagination. Elio Solis, aged 11, accidentally gets Earth chosen to represent the planet in a galactic council known as the Communiverse. Elio sets out on an adventure filled with discovery and emotion, trying to prove mankind’s value. With voice talent such as Yonas Kibreab, America Ferrera, Jameela Jamil, and Adrian Molina’s first time directing solo, this may be Pixar’s next big sci-fi emotional adventure.
2. Jurassic World: Rebirth
The dinosaurs return. Five years on from the Dominion events, this latest installment introduces a new cast featuring Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey. The story involves a scientific team seeking to harvest DNA from three gigantic prehistoric creatures for use in medical research—a notion that, of course, doesn’t end well. Rebirth is bringing more dino action with a bit of a different twist on the franchise blueprint.
3. Superman
James Gunn launches a new chapter for the DC Universe with Superman. David Corenswet dons the cape as a younger Clark Kent struggling to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage and human life. Rachel Brosnahan becomes Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult becomes a reimagined Lex Luthor. It’s a reboot that aims to balance heart, heroism, and world-building.
4. The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Marvel at last brings back one of its most legendary teams. Taking place in a retro-futuristic 1960s, First Steps unites Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach to battle Galactus and the Silver Surfer. With Matt Shakman at the helm, hopes are for a more cosmic, stylized version of the Fantastic Four.
5. Mercy
Chris Pratt stars in this sci-fi thriller with a mystery twist as a detective falsely accused of a crime in a world that isn’t quite on the same playing field. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, Mercy has few plot details but plenty of intrigue, with Rebecca Ferguson and Annabelle Wallis joining the cast. This one is flying under the radar but could be one of 2025’s biggest surprise hits.
6. Tron: Ares
Jared Leto plays Ares, a computer program released into the real world in Tron: Ares, which follows in the footsteps of Tron: Legacy without following the same path. The film adds Greta Lee, Gillian Anderson, and Evan Peters to the roster, with the return of Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn. The movie delves into what occurs when artificial intelligence ventures off the grid and enters the human world.
7. Predator: Badlands
After the critical success of Prey, Dan Trachtenberg comes back to the world of Predator with a new spin. The Predator is the main character this time around. Elle Fanning headlines the cast, but story details are still largely unknown. What has been revealed is that this movie will explore deeper into the Predator’s point of view, giving the legendary alien hunter a more emotional feel.
8. Bugonia
Once again, director Yorgos Lanthimos collaborates with Emma Stone in Bugonia, a dark sci-fi comedy remake of the South Korean cult classic Save the Green Planet!. Two conspiracy theorists kidnap a corporate executive whom they think is an alien planning to devastate Earth. And also starring alongside Jesse Plemons and Alicia Silverstone, anticipate a blend of absurdity, social critique, and unnerving tension.
9. The Running Man
Edgar Wright helms a contemporary retelling of The Running Man, based on Stephen King’s dystopian novel. Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards, a man who is compelled to participate in a fatal on-air contest where the only reward is life. Supporting him are Josh Brolin, Katy M. O’Brian, and Lee Pace in a remake that promises to be a quick-witted, socially conscious refresh of the 1987 cult favorite.
10. Avatar: Fire and Ash
James Cameron returns to Pandora with the third installment of his gigantic sci-fi epic. Fire and Ash brings us the fiery new Na’vi people, the Ash People, and further continues the adventures of Jake Sully and Neytiri. Plot is still largely in the shadows, but with Cameron’s track record of pushing the boundaries of visual effects and immersive storytelling, this is likely to be another big-screen spectacle.
11. City Rush 4
The indie sci-fi action series City Rush continues in full swing with its fourth installment. Special agent Ace battles a gangster overlord, a runaway virus, and android assassins this time around. With Eric Roberts returning to play himself, the movie still mixes gritty action with pulpy future cool. It’s streaming its way to release, keeping the series in front of its expanding audience.
12. Mickey 17, The Electric State, and More
Aside from the blockbusters, 2025 is introducing several new sci-fi narratives based on highly regarded novels and graphic novels. Mickey 17 and The Electric State are only two of the movies exploring intricate worlds and character-focused plots. With Chris Pratt, Aaron Paul, and Scarlett Johansson set to star, these smaller-budgeted productions may provide some of the year’s most innovative and intellectually stimulating science fiction.
Whether you’re all about world-ending stakes, philosophical questions, or just love a good spaceship battle, 2025’s sci-fi lineup has something worth watching. It’s a big year for bold ideas, big visuals, and fresh takes on the future—and the future looks thrilling.