Awards season is creeping up, and if you’re not prepared, you might miss out on the biggest conversations. With the Golden Globes kicking off the festivities on January 5, 2025, and the Oscars closing them out on March 2, 2025, there’s no time to waste. From epic sequels to intimate dramas, these 19 movies are already generating serious buzz. Grab your popcorn and take notes — these are the films you’ll need to watch to stay in the loop!
1. A Complete Unknown
Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of Bob Dylan in this biopic chronicling Dylan’s electrifying transition from folk hero to rock legend. Directed by James Mangold (Ford v Ferrari), this film blends iconic music with a poignant look at one of the most transformative eras in pop culture.
2. Gladiator 2
Ridley Scott returns to the arena with a sequel starring Paul Mescal as Lucius, son of Connie Nielsen’s Lucilla, alongside Denzel Washington and Barry Keoghan. With Scott promising an epic continuation of Gladiator’s legacy, this is one you’ll want to experience on the biggest screen possible.
3. The Substance
In this haunting sci-fi thriller by Coralie Fargeat (Revenge), Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley take viewers on a surreal journey into transformation and identity. With eerie visuals and a compelling narrative, it’s already stirring up talk of Best Actress and Best Director nominations.
4. Challengers
Zendaya leads this romantic sports drama as a tennis player caught in a love triangle with Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this steamy tale of ambition and betrayal promises equal parts tension on and off the court.
5. The Piano Lesson
Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington bring raw emotion to August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play about family legacy and a long-contested heirloom piano. Expect powerful performances and deep cultural themes to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
6. The Room Next Door
This psychological thriller has been shrouded in mystery, but insiders are calling it a sleeper hit. With a chilling atmosphere and unexpected twists, it’s poised to be a standout in the genre and a possible contender for Original Screenplay awards. Also Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton just eat down in any role they play!
7. Anora
This indie gem follows a young immigrant family’s journey as they navigate love and loss in a foreign land. Beautifully shot and emotionally stirring, it’s a breakout hit for its lead actor and a likely candidate for Independent Spirit Awards recognition.
8. Blitz
Steve McQueen captures the resilience and heartbreak of Londoners during the WWII Blitz in this sweeping historical epic. With stunning performances and an emotional score, it’s shaping up to be both a critical and audience favorite this season.
9. The Brutalist
Joel Edgerton stars in this art-house drama about an architect struggling to create his vision in post-WWII Europe. Shot in striking black and white, this film delivers a story as bold as its cinematography, offering deep commentary on ambition and loss.
10. Conclave
Ralph Fiennes anchors this Vatican-set thriller about a secretive papal election rife with political intrigue. With its tight script and powerhouse performances, this could easily become a dark horse in the Best Picture race.
11. Dune: Part Two
Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Florence Pugh lead Denis Villeneuve’s highly anticipated follow-up to Dune. With grander battles, deeper alliances, and stunning visuals, this epic is a front-runner for technical and acting awards alike.
12. Emilia Pérez
Karla Sofia Gascón shines in this genre-defying musical comedy about love, identity, and transformation. Jacques Audiard’s colorful storytelling and heartfelt performances make this one of the season’s most refreshing offerings.
13. Nickel Boys
Colson Whitehead’s powerful novel comes to life in this timely and poignant adaptation about two boys navigating a brutal reform school. The film explores themes of systemic racism, resilience, and hope, making it a strong contender for Best Adapted Screenplay.
14. Sing Sing
Coleman Domingo stars in this deeply moving story of prison inmates staging a play to reclaim their humanity. With its powerful ensemble cast and emotional depth, it’s already being hailed as a triumph of storytelling.
15. Wicked
The beloved Broadway musical finally hits the big screen, with Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Under Jon M. Chu’s direction, this vibrant reimagining promises dazzling visuals and earworm-worthy tunes.
16. A Real Pain
Jesse Eisenberg directs and stars in this poignant dramedy set in Poland, exploring grief, identity, and cultural roots. With sharp wit and emotional depth, it’s a film that blends heart and humor seamlessly.
17. Maria
Angelina Jolie transforms into legendary opera singer Maria Callas in this intimate portrait of fame, artistry, and sacrifice. Directed by Pablo Larraín (Spencer), this biopic is already generating major Oscar buzz for Jolie’s performance.
18. His Three Daughters
Carrie Coon leads this heartfelt drama about three sisters grappling with loss and reconciliation. With its nuanced storytelling and deeply relatable characters, it’s sure to be a standout in this year’s awards race.
19. NightBitch
Amy Adams delivers a career-defining performance as a suburban mom who believes she’s turning into a dog. This genre-blending dark comedy from A24 offers a biting look at motherhood and identity, earning raves for its daring storytelling.
Which of these films are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this list with your movie-loving friends!
