January 2025 is officially here, and the month is lined up with a string of diverse releases in Hollywood. Some of them are action thrillers, while others are indies with innovative storylines. Some are backed by careful marketing, while others have already started buzzing positively due to early positive reviews (following limited releases in late 2024). Here is the curated list:
Better Man
Michael Gracey, the visionary director of The Greatest Showman, helms Better Man, a musical biopic about the life and career of British musician Robbie Williams. This innovative film reimagines Williams as a chimpanzee, brought to life through performance capture by Jonno Davies. Blending original music with Williams’ journey from a boy band sensation to a solo superstar, the film promises a fresh take on biographical storytelling. After a limited release on December 25, 2024, it is set to open wide on January 10, 2025.
Den of Thieves 2: Pantera
The 2018 heist thriller Den of Thieves gets a sequel with Gerard Butler returning as Detective Nick O’Brien. This time, O’Brien chases Donnie Wilson, played by O’Shea Jackson Jr., across international borders. The pursuit takes a surprising turn as the two team up for a daring heist. Directed by Christian Gudegast, the film combines gritty action with complex character dynamics, ensuring a thrilling cinematic experience. Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is set for release on January 10, 2025.
In The Grey
Guy Ritchie brings his signature action-packed storytelling to In The Grey. The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Henry Cavill, and Eiza Gonzalez as a trio seeking revenge after billions are stolen from them. With sharp dialogue, intense action sequences, and a stellar cast, the movie promises a thrilling experience. This marks another collaboration between Ritchie and Gyllenhaal after The Covenant, while Cavill has previously collaborated with Ritchie on films like The Man From U.N.C.L.E (2015) and The Ministry Of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024). In The Grey is scheduled for release on January 17, 2025.
September 5
Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, September 5 revisits the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis through the eyes of the ABC Sports news team covering the events live. Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro lead the cast in this historical drama, which blends dramatic recreations with archival footage. Praised for its poignant storytelling, the film premiered to strong reviews at the Venice Film Festival. It will release widely on January 17, 2025, following a limited run beginning December 13, 2024.
Wolf Man
Universal Pictures continues its classic monster reboot series with Wolf Man, directed by Leigh Whannell of The Invisible Man fame. Julia Garner and Christopher Abbott take on lead roles in this mysterious project, with details about the plot kept under wraps. Given Whannell’s knack for suspenseful storytelling, the film is expected to deliver a fresh and modern take on the iconic character. Wolf Man is slated for release on January 17, 2025.
Flight Risk
Mel Gibson directs Flight Risk, an action thriller set against the backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness. Michelle Dockery stars as a US Air Marshal transporting a high-value witness, played by Topher Grace. Tension soars when their pilot, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg, is revealed to be a hitman. The film combines Gibson’s directorial expertise with Wahlberg’s action prowess, promising a narrative that is pulse-pounding. Flight Risk is set to open wide on January 24, 2025.
Companion
Companion marks Drew Hancock’s directorial debut, described as “a new kind of love story.” While the plot remains shrouded in mystery, the eerie teaser hints at unsettling horrors. The cast includes Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, and Lukas Gage, with Zach Cregger, known for Barbarian, serving as a producer. With its intriguing premise and talented team, Companion is all set to captivate audiences when it releases on January 31, 2025.
