Top-Rated New Films and Must-See TV Shows to Watch in 2025

As 2025 unfolds, the entertainment world is gearing up for a spectacular year of top-rated new films and TV shows, blending superhero epics, long-awaited sequels, and innovative originals. From movies out in theaters to streaming platforms, this year’s lineup promises something for everyone, with star-studded casts, visionary directors, and stories that push boundaries. This guide highlights the most anticipated top-rated new films and shows of 2025, based on fan buzz, industry trends, and critical anticipation.

Why 2025 Is a Landmark Year for Entertainment

The global box office is projected to rebound in 2025, with a 15% increase over 2024, per a Variety report, fueled by a packed slate of top-rated new films, blockbusters, and streaming hits. Posts on X reflect massive fan excitement for titles like Captain America: Brave New World and Wicked: For Good, signaling strong audience demand. From James Gunn’s DC reboot to Apple TV series and Netflix’s bold originals, 2025 blends nostalgia, innovation, and diversity. Here are the top 10 top rated new films and shows to watch.

Top 5 Most Anticipated Movies of 2025

1. Superman (July 11, 2025)
Director: James Gunn
Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult
Why It’s a Must-Watch: James Gunn’s Superman kicks off the rebooted DC Universe, portraying Clark Kent as a beacon of kindness in a cynical world. Featuring Krypto the Superdog and heroes like Hawkgirl, this entry among the top-rated new films promises heart, action, and a fresh take on the iconic hero. IMDb’s MOVIEmeter ranks it among the year’s most anticipated movies out in theaters.
How to Watch: In theaters or IMAX for maximum impact.
Pro Tip: Follow @JamesGunn on X for behind-the-scenes updates and trailer drops.

2. Captain America: Brave New World (February 14, 2025)
Director: Julius Onah
Cast: Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Giancarlo Esposito
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Topping Fandango’s 2025 anticipation survey, this Marvel entry in the top-rated new films list sees Sam Wilson (Mackie) as Captain America facing Red Hulk (Ford). Its political intrigue and action-packed trailer have fans buzzing on X. Expect a bold new chapter in the MCU’s Phase Five.
How to Watch: Hits movies out in theaters on Valentine’s Day; book tickets early via Fandango.
Pro Tip: Rewatch The Falcon and the Winter Soldier on Disney+ for context.

3. Wicked: For Good (November 26, 2025)
Director: Jon M. Chu
Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey
Why It’s a Must-Watch: The second half of the Wicked adaptation, covering Act Two of the Broadway musical, concludes Elphaba and Glinda’s journey. As one of the most anticipated top-rated new films, after Part One’s $1 billion global gross in 2024, fans are eager for this magical finale.
How to Watch: In theaters for its stunning visuals and musical numbers.
Pro Tip: Brush up on the Broadway soundtrack to catch every lyric.

4. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (May 23, 2025)
Director: Christopher McQuarrie
Cast: Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Tom Cruise’s final outing as Ethan Hunt promises jaw-dropping stunts and a climactic end to the franchise. One of the most action-packed movies out in theaters, it’s a fan favorite for thrill seekers and consistently appears in top rated new films discussions.
How to Watch: Experience it in IMAX for Cruise’s signature spectacle.
Pro Tip: Catch up on the series on Paramount+ for the full arc.

5. Avatar: Fire and Ash (December 19, 2025)
Director: James Cameron
Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Among the most visually stunning top-rated new films, the third Avatar installment introduces the fire Na’vi and explores Pandora’s darker themes. Cameron’s D23 2024 concept art reveal sparked buzz, and its pre-Christmas release will dominate movies out in theaters.
How to Watch: In 3D theaters for an immersive experience.
Pro Tip: Follow @officialavatar on X for concept art and updates.

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Top 5 Most Anticipated TV and Streaming Shows of 2025

1. The Bear: Season 4 (Summer 2025, FX/Hulu)
Why It’s a Must-Watch: The Emmy-winning television show returns with Carmy and the team navigating restaurant chaos. Consistently recommended alongside the best Apple TV series, this show delivers sharp drama.
How to Watch: Stream on Hulu or watch live on FX.
Pro Tip: Binge previous seasons on Hulu.

2. The White Lotus: Season 3 (February 2025, HBO/Max)
Why It’s a Must-Watch: A unique television show that mixes satire and intrigue, The White Lotus sets its latest season in Thailand. Along with other top-rated new films, it’s dominating pop culture lists.
How to Watch: Stream on Max or HBO.
Pro Tip: Follow @HBO on X for updates.

3. The Last of Us: Season 2 (Spring 2025, HBO/Max)
Why It’s a Must-Watch: This acclaimed television show deepens its emotional journey. It remains a standout next to the top Apple TV series and movies out in theaters alike.
How to Watch: Stream or watch weekly on HBO.
Pro Tip: Replay the game for a deeper experience.

4. Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld (May 4, 2025, Disney+)
Why It’s a Must-Watch: A new animated television show exploring gritty characters like Asajj Ventress and Cad Bane. Star Wars fans and lovers of the ghost TV show genre will find this one appealing.
How to Watch: On Disney+ starting May 4th.
Pro Tip: Prep by watching Tales of the Jedi.

5. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Summer 2025, Netflix)
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Part of Netflix’s Apple TV series lineup in spirit, this whodunit joins the ranks of clever television show writing with its twisty storytelling.
How to Watch: Stream exclusively on Netflix.
Pro Tip: Rewatch Glass Onion for context.

Why These Movies and Shows Are Unmissable

The 2025 lineup reflects a dynamic entertainment landscape. Top rated new films like Superman and Wicked headline movies out in theaters, while Apple TV series like The Bear offer binge-worthy content. Diversity shines across stories like the chosen movie, and fans of classic series will see references across content including once upon a time tv series and ghost TV show narratives. Per a 2025 Nielsen report, 70% of viewers plan to mix movies out in theaters with streaming, especially shows like the chosen movie and other television show releases.

Conclusion

The most anticipated top-rated new films and shows of 2025 promise a thrilling mix of action, drama, and innovation. From movies out in theaters to must-see Apple TV series, the entertainment landscape is full of excitement. Fans of the chosen movie, fans of ghost TV show stories, or those revisiting the charm of Once Upon a Time TV series will all find something to love. Whether you're catching a television show or rewatching a classic, this year’s lineup delivers.

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