Not all films are designed for the largest of screens, but that doesn’t deter film studios from securing as many IMAX screens as possible for their top releases. The true measure of an excellent IMAX film isn’t just about the number of screens, it’s about whether the film can leverage the larger screen size to its advantage, transforming it from an average film to an extraordinary visual experience.
Looking forward to the remaining months of this year, there are seven films set to release in 2025 that we’re eager to experience in IMAX. Three of these are slated for a July release, typically a month reserved for big blockbusters. However, our top pick is scheduled for the end of 2025. Given the director’s past successes, we anticipate it being the standout IMAX movie of the year.
7. Wicked: For Good
Release date: November 21
The Wicked adaptation was always expected to be a hit, but its worldwide box-office success of $717.9 million surpassed all expectations. This prequel to the Wizard of Oz Broadway captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and the story of the future Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo), and her unlikely friendship with Glinda Upland (Ariana Grande).
Knowing what director Jon M. Chu’s Wicked: For Good brings to the table, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most anticipated IMAX releases of 2025. If the first film is any indication, we can expect the sequel to reach new heights.
6. The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Release date: July 25
Out of the three Marvel Studios films releasing in 2025, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is the most exciting, despite the lack of a trailer. The film promises a unique take on the Marvel Universe, with a retro-futuristic 1960s setting and the introduction of the Fantastic Four’s adversary, Galactus (Ralph Ineson). The casting of Julia Garner as a female Silver Surfer has sparked debate among fans, but we’re excited to see her on the big screen.
5. Jurassic World Rebirth
Release date: July 2
Gareth Edwards, the director of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, is set to direct the newest addition to the Jurassic World franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth. With a stellar cast including Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, Jonathan Bailey, and Rupert Friend, the film promises to be an exciting adventure.
4. Sinners
Release date: April 18
Coming as a surprise entry on this list, Sinners is a period horror film, shot using IMAX cameras by none other than Ryan Coogler, the director of Marvel’s Black Panther series. The film features Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, who find themselves pitted against vampires.
3. Superman
Release date: July 11
James Gunn, the director of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, is revered for his ability to blend spectacle with touching emotional narratives, which is exactly what Superman needs. The film marks a fresh start for the DC movies, with a new Superman played by David Corenswet, a new Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), and a world teeming with superheroes from the get-go.
2. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Release date: May 23
The partnership of writer-director Christopher McQuarrie and Tom Cruise has revolutionized the Mission: Impossible series into must-see action spectacles. Cruise’s dedication to performing his own daring stunts is one of the reasons these films are such a visual treat on the big screen.
1. Avatar: Fire and Ash
Release date: December 19
You didn’t forget about James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash, did you? This third film in the Avatar series is eagerly anticipated, especially considering the stunning visuals Cameron and his special effects team have brought to the screen in the past. Cameron’s effective use of 3D effects without resorting to gimmicks sets him apart from other filmmakers, making this film one we can’t wait to see.
