Nowadays, it is more common than ever for majorHollywood IPs and franchises to be rebooted.Audiences have loved seeing their favorite characters and stories be given a new life on the big screen once again. Of course, many of these reboots take their source material in an exciting new direction. After all, it would be rather boring to just see the same exact film over and over again, with hardly any changes from the original.
With that being said, however, not every reboot has wound up being a success. Some of these modern adaptations of older stories fail to reinvigorate their audiences, and wind up being rather disappointing, both critically and commercially. Somemovies had such iconic performances that a reboot is out of the question. Nevertheless,there are plenty of reboots on the horizonthat already have fans on the edge of their seats. Though it may be unknown what directions these films will take with the stories that inspired them, it is certain that people will flock to the theaters to see a new interpretation of these beloved films.
Nosferatu
Cast
Nosferatu is a remake of the 1922 silent film of the same name from director F. W. Murnau. Robert Eggers is crafting his own version of the story for the reboot as writer and director, with Bill Skarsgård stepping into the shoes of Count Orlok. Nosferatu tells the tale of a young woman who falls victim to a vampire utterly infatuated with her.
In 1922, one of the very first horror movies ever made was released. Directed by F.W. Murnau, that historic film was entitledNosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, starring Max Schreck as Count Orlok, a terrifying vampire. Now,over a century later, this silent German horror film is getting a dark, modern reboot.
This upcoming film,with the title shortened toNosferatu, is directed by Robert Eggers, known for his haunting work on films likeThe WitchandThe Lighthouse. This reimagining of the iconic expressionist film is sure to attract horror lovers and fans of classic cinema alike.
Why Nosferatu Was Banned & Almost Disappeared Completely (& Why Robert Eggers' Remake Is Happening Now)
While 2024’s Nosferatu is one of the most anticipated horror films of the year, the original movie did not receive the same sort of reception.
Based on the trailers that have been released, it appears that Eggers has remained dedicated to preserving the gothic style of the original film, something that will certainly setNosferatuapart from other horror movies being released around the same time. Witha star-studded cast led by Bill Skarsgård, Nicholas Hoult, and Lily-Rose Depp,Nosferatuis sure to be a major cinematic event to wrap up the year.
Lilo & Stitch
Lilo & Stitch is a live-action remake of the 2002 animated sci-fi adventure comedy directed by Dean Fleischer Camp.
In recent years, Disney has certainly been no stranger to rebooting the studio’s former projects. Now, although there are many of these reboots currently on the way, one in particular that has fans excited isthe live-action remake ofLilo & Stitch. Originally released in 2002,Lilo & Stitchtells the touching story ofthe unlikely bond that forms between a young Hawaiian girl named Lilo and the destructive blue alien she adopts as a pet.
Now, the story is set to be retold in a live-action format, with a release date planned for May 2025. The upcoming adaptation ofLilo & Stitchwill be directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, who recently gained acclaim for his work on the stop-motion mockumentary,Marcel the Shell with Shoes On.
Althoughthe new cast will feature some big names, such as Zach Galifianakis, Hannah Waddingham, and Billy Magnussen, what has fans most excited is the returning performances of multiple original cast members. This includes Chris Sanders reprising his role as the voice of Stitch, eliminating any fears of the character’s recognizable voice being changed.
8Frankenstein
Coming in 2025
Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel,Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus(typically shortened toFrankenstein), is not only one of the first stories to ever blend science fiction and horror, but it is perhaps the most notable example of this twisted blend of genres.
The classic story follows Victor Frankenstein, an ambitious young scientist who unleashes an unspeakable horror when he successfully manages to give life to his own creation. AlthoughFrankensteinhas already been adapted to the screen many times in a vast array of formats, this particular upcoming adaptation has viewers especially excited.
Frankenstein
Frankenstein follows Dr. Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant yet self-absorbed scientist, as he creates a living creature through a groundbreaking experiment. This act triggers a series of events that culminate in the downfall of both the creator and his tragic creation. This 2025 adaptation explores themes of ambition and consequence.
This next reboot, which will arrive on Netflix in 2025, is being directed by none other than horror icon Guillermo del Toro, who is also writing and producing the film. Confirmed members of the cast include Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz. The stellar cast and del Toro’s vast horror expertise have made expectations very high fordel Toro’s new retelling ofFrankenstein.
7The Little Shop of Halloween Horrors
Release Date Unknown
While very little is known about the project in terms of specifics, fans are already excited about the upcoming reboot of theLittle Shop of Horrorsfranchise.The originalLittle Shop of Horrorsfilm was a 1960 horror comedydirected by Roger Corman. Since then, the story has been adapted into an off-Broadway musical (which was recently given a revival), as well as a hilarious movie version of the musical.
Now, even though details have not yet been revealed, fans of the campy horror comedy are eager to finally see the beloved story be brought back to life for real.
Across all the different versions, the story follows a struggling botanist who finds ethically questionable success when he raises a plant that feeds on human blood. The upcoming reboot, titledLittle Shop of Halloween Horrors, will be directed by Joe Dante, best known for his work on the 1984 film,Gremlins.
A remake of the movie musical had originally been planned for the early 2020s, but was ultimately canceled. Now, even though details have not yet been revealed,fans of the campy horror comedy are eager to finally see the beloved story be brought back to lifefor real.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Fantastic 4: First Steps features Marvel’s First Family navigating their dual roles as superheroes and family members in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world. They defend Earth from a formidable space god, Galactus, and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer, testing their familial bonds and heroic resolve.
In recent years, Disney has surely sought to make the most out of its ownership of Marvel Entertainment. However, one key part of the superhero universe that has yet to be given a new life recently is the Fantastic Four. Following the massive failure of the most recent film to feature this iconic team of heroes, fans have been eager to see the beloved characters finally get the proper cinematic treatment they deserve.
Coming to theaters in July 2025,The Fantastic Four: First Stepscould be the rebound storyaudiences have been waiting for. One source of hype surrounding the upcoming film has certainly been the reveal of its cast. In this new version,the heroic team will be played by Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.
Other major stars like John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Paul Walter Hauser have also been attached to the project. In addition, it has been revealed that the film will be set in a 1960s-inspired alternate version of Earth, which will surely offer a unique twist to the story. Matt Shakman, known for his inventive work onWandaVision, is set to direct.
From the World of John Wick: Ballerina
Ballerina follows Eve Macarro during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, as she undergoes rigorous training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma. The film expands on the John Wick universe, charting Eve’s initiation into the clandestine world of professional assassins.
TheJohn Wickfranchise has been one of the most prominent action movie series of the 21st century. Starring Keanu Reeves as the titular role, the films follow a retired hitman who reluctantly returns to his criminal lifestyle after he is shaken by a tragedy in his personal life. Although the fourthJohn Wickfilm was released in 2023, the franchise is already being rebooted with a new twist.
Coming in June 2025,From the World of John Wick: Ballerinawill shift the focus off of the legendary assassin, and onto Eve Macarro, a dancer who begins training to kill.Ballerinawill occur in the same universe asJohn Wick(with Reeves even returning to reprise his role), but it will surely take the story in a whole new direction.
Ana de Armas will play the film’s protagonist, with Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, and Lance Reddick also playing important roles. While more specific details of the story are still yet to be discovered, audiences know they can expect plenty of the high-energy action they crave, especially with Len Wiseman directing.
Superman
Superman (2025): Superman follows the dual life of Clark Kent, a journalist in Metropolis, as he endeavors to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. Set against a backdrop of personal discovery, the film explores his journey of identity as he navigates his existence in a complex world.
In 2022, it was revealed that James Gunn would be taking over DC Studios, leaving superhero lovers eager to see what new ideas he would bring to the universe’s beloved characters and stories. Gunn immediately came out swinging, revealing that he would be writing and directing a reboot featuringone of the most iconic heroes of all time: Superman.
The cape-wearing superhero has been appearing on-screen for many decades, but Gunn’s unique style promises to present Superman in a way he has never been seen before. Simply titledSuperman, this new portrayal of the legendary hero will be released in July 2025.
David Corinswet is set to step into the role of Clark Kent/Superman, with Rachel Brosnahan appearing opposite him as Lois Lane. Nicholas Hoult, Nathan Fillion, and Anthony Carrigan are among the other actors set to appear in the film. Even though Superman has been in countless motion pictures over the years, expectations are very high for this new reimagining of the character and his story.
How to Train Your Dragon
How to Train Your Dragon, released in 2025, depicts the story of Hiccup, a young Viking who defies tradition on the isle of Berk by befriending Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their friendship uncovers the true nature of dragons, challenging entrenched Viking perceptions and societal norms.
Disney isn’t the only company putting a live-action spin on their classic animated films. In June 2025, DreamWorks will be releasing its much-anticipated reboot of its popular 2010 feature,How to Train Your Dragon.The film follows a young Viking named Hiccup who forms an unlikely bond with a dragon named Toothless, calling into question whether dragons are really as dangerous as the Vikings had been believing.
Dean DeBlois, the co-director and co-writer of the original film, is returning to direct the upcoming reboot. Another element that will remain consistent from the original film is Gerard Butler, reprising his role as Hiccup’s father, Stoick the Vast.
Which Disney live-action remake is your favorite?
Disney has remade several of its classic animated features in live-action, and plenty more are on the way (whether you like it or not). While some are certainly better than others, a select few are very entertaining and look visually stunning in live-action. A few of my favorites include 2017’s Beauty and the Beast and 2019’s The Lion King, and I have big hopes for Lilo & Stitch coming in 2025.
Mason Thames will play Hiccup, with Nico Parker, Nick Frost, and Julian Dennison also among the main cast. The film will arrive around the same time that aHow to Train Your Dragon-themed land will be opening at Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park. Needless to say, 2025 will be a very exciting year for fans of the popular fantasy film.
Moana
In Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Moana,” a young Polynesian girl embarks on a daring voyage to save her people, seeking the demigod Maui’s help to restore the heart of Te Fiti.
The 2016 animated feature,Moana, is one of the most successful films of the last decade for Disney Animation. This is well-evidenced by the fact that the film not only has a 2024 sequel, but a live-action reboot scheduled for 2026. While the 2024 sequel will feature a new adventure for the film’s beloved characters, the upcoming reboot is intended to strictly be a recreation of the original story.
While the 2024 sequel will feature a new adventure for the film’s beloved characters, the upcoming reboot is intended to strictly be a recreation of the original story.
Moanafollows a brave explorer who sets off on an adventure with a demigod named Maui in an attempt to save her island and its people. The live-action reboot ofMoanawill be directed by Thomas Kail. Although it is his narrative feature debut, Kail is no stranger to directing major projects.
He is best known for his Tony-winning work on Broadway, where he directed bothIn the HeightsandHamilton, two mega-hits from Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also did the music forMoana.Dwayne Johnson is set to reprise his role as Maui, with newcomer Catherine Laga’aia stepping into the titular role. If it is able to live up to the original film,Moanawill be a major success.
Wolf Man
Wolf Man, released on August 09, 2025, follows Blake and his wife Charlotte as they visit his secluded childhood home in rural Oregon. After a mysterious animal attack, they become trapped inside, and Charlotte is forced to confront Blake’s disturbing transformation amidst growing tension and fear.
The stars seem to be aligning when it comes to the upcoming 2025 horror film,Wolf Man. Practically every element that has been revealed about the film thus far appears to be promising. The film isa remake of the classic horror film,The Wolf Man, one of the most iconic additions to the genre during the 1940s.
Jason Blum and Ryan Gosling are attached to the film as producers, with Leigh Whannell stepping in to direct. Whannell is a modern powerhouse in the world of horror, known for his work on films likeSaw,Insidious, andThe Invisible Man.Whannell’s modern reboot ofWolf Manwill follow a family of three who move into a farmhouse they inherit after the mysterious disappearance of a relative.
The Wolf Man(1941) has a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Matters quickly go awry for the trio when one of them is scratched by a werewolf, slowly transforming him into a hideous, violent creature.Wolf Manappears to give horror lovers what they crave; a terrifying, modern spin on an iconic monster. IfWolf Manmanages to live up to the hype, it will put 2025 off to a great start in the world of cinema.
