Captain America: Brave New World
Release Date: February 14
Director: Julius Onah
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Danny Ramirez
Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) officially takes on the mantle of Captain America in the new film titled “Captain America: Brave New World.” The storyline revolves around Sam facing off against the new Secretary of State, Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford), amid a national crisis. With global threats looming, Sam must find the strength to prevent disaster.
This film marks a significant turning point as the role of Captain America transitions from Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) to Sam Wilson. It also serves as a major comeback for Marvel Studios after a period of silence in 2024.
Thunderbolts*
Release Date: May 2
Director: Jake Schreier
Starring: Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour
“Thunderbolts*” introduces a new team of anti-heroes, funded by the government to carry out missions that the typical superheroes would not intervene in. This group brings together characters from previous MCU films, including Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and Red Guardian (David Harbour).
The film will also highlight the manipulative strategies of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) as she recruits these super-powered individuals for her own agenda. This is the first of two films focusing on the MCU’s team in 2025.
Superman
Release Date: July 11
Director: James Gunn
Starring: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan
James Gunn will unveil a new version of “Superman,” which is set to kick off a completely new era for the DC Universe (DCU). This film will focus on Superman’s journey of reconciling his Kryptonian heritage with the upbringing he received on Earth. In a world that rewards success and punishes failure, Superman must prove that these values still hold significance.
This project is a crucial step for James Gunn and Peter Safran as they reshape the DCU, creating interconnected narratives across the films and franchises.
Fantastic Four: First Steps
Release Date: July 25
Director: Matt Shakman
Starring: Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn
For the first time, the “Fantastic Four” officially enters the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The film introduces iconic characters: Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn).
“Fantastic Four: First Steps” will be set against the backdrop of the 1960s, providing a new perspective on the MCU’s expansive universe. This film will also serve as the starting point for Phase 6, leading up to major events like “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty” (2026) and “Avengers: Secret Wars” (2027).
Other Upcoming Superhero Films
In addition to the major titles confirmed, 2025 also has other noteworthy superhero projects in the pipeline:
“Spider-Woman” and “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse” from Sony Pictures Animation.
“Blade,” initially slated for release on November 7, 2025, has been delayed and replaced by “Predator: Badlands” from 20th Century Studios.
Despite the shifting schedules of some films, fans can look forward to future projects such as “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” and “Avengers: Doomsday” in 2026. Additionally, “The Batman Part II” by Matt Reeves will have to wait until 2027.
2025 promises to be a vibrant year, with a strong resurgence of superhero films from both Marvel and DC. With a rich tapestry of storytelling and new characters being introduced, audiences are sure to experience compelling narratives and emotional journeys on the big screen. This year is certainly one not to be missed for any superhero film enthusiast.
