Here Are the Top 15 Most-Popular Movies on IMDb This Week, with the Damon-Affleck Action Thriller on Top

The cinematic landscape is currently defined by a mixture of highly anticipated sequels, star-studded literary adaptations, and original genre-bending stories. Audiences are showing significant interest in upcoming releases that promise to redefine established franchises while exploring new narrative territories. From dystopian thrillers to poignant historical dramas, the current selection reflects a diverse range of artistic visions from renowned directors. These films represent the most discussed and searched titles in the industry today, highlighting the projects that are shaping the future of global entertainment.

‘Bugonia’ (2025)

Emma Stone stars in this science fiction comedy directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, marking another collaboration between the award-winning pair. The narrative follows two conspiracy theorists who kidnap a high-powered CEO, convinced she is an alien intending to destroy Earth. This project is a reimagining of the South Korean cult classic ‘Save the Green Planet!’, blending dark humor with social satire. The film explores themes of paranoia and systemic distrust through a uniquely stylized lens. Jesse Plemons also features in the cast, reuniting with Stone and Lanthimos for this ambitious production.

‘The Running Man’ (2025)

Edgar Wright directs this new adaptation of the Stephen King novel, featuring Glen Powell in the lead role of Ben Richards. Set in a dystopian future, the plot centers on a deadly game show where a man must survive being hunted by professional killers to win a cash prize. The cast includes Michael Cera, Josh Brolin, and Lee Pace, bringing a wealth of talent to this high-octane thriller. This version aims to stay closer to the original source material’s grim tone compared to the 1987 cinematic interpretation. It provides a commentary on society’s obsession with violent televised entertainment and systemic inequality.

‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Benoit Blanc returns for a third installment in the popular whodunit franchise directed by Rian Johnson. Daniel Craig leads an expansive ensemble cast that includes Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Jeremy Renner, and Andrew Scott. The film follows the world-renowned detective as he investigates a complex murder mystery involving a group of high-profile suspects. This entry continues the series’ tradition of subverting classic mystery tropes while providing sharp social observations. It is scheduled to premiere on a major streaming service, bringing the intricate puzzle-solving format to a global audience.

‘Rental Family’ (2025)

Brendan Fraser stars as a struggling actor living in Tokyo who finds a new professional calling working for a “rental family” agency. He is hired to play various roles in the lives of strangers, serving as a stand-in for missing or estranged relatives. The film explores the unique cultural phenomenon of professional companions in Japan while examining themes of human connection and loneliness. Directed by Hikari, the story blends elements of drama and dry comedy to highlight the emotional labor involved in these performances. The supporting cast includes Akira Emoto and Takehiro Hira, adding depth to this character-driven narrative.

‘Sinners’ (2025)

Michael B. Jordan stars in this supernatural thriller directed by Ryan Coogler, marking the latest collaboration in their successful creative partnership. Set in the 1930s Jim Crow South, the story follows twin brothers who encounter a malevolent force while returning to their ancestral home. The film incorporates elements of Southern Gothic horror and traditional folklore to create an atmosphere of escalating dread. Delroy Lindo and Hailee Steinfeld are featured in the supporting ensemble, grounding the supernatural events in a specific historical context. It explores the intersection of historical trauma and genre-based storytelling.

’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Danny Boyle returns to the post-apocalyptic world he helped establish to direct this long-awaited sequel to the original survival thriller. The story picks up nearly three decades after the initial outbreak of the Rage Virus, exploring how survivors have rebuilt a semblance of society in the United Kingdom. Cillian Murphy reprises his role as Jim, leading a cast that includes Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. This film serves as the opening chapter of a planned new trilogy designed to expand the franchise’s lore. It focuses on the enduring struggle for humanity in a landscape still plagued by internal and external threats.

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

James Cameron continues his epic saga of Pandora with this third installment in the ‘Avatar’ film series. The story introduces the “Ash People,” a more volatile clan of Na’vi that represents a darker perspective on the planet’s inhabitants. Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña return as Jake Sully and Neytiri, who must protect their family from new and rising conflicts. The production utilizes cutting-edge motion-capture technology to explore previously unseen volcanic and aquatic environments. This film aims to deepen the complexity of the Na’vi culture while raising the stakes for the ongoing battle for Pandora’s future.

‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Based on the acclaimed novel by Maggie O’Farrell, this film provides a fictionalized account of the life of Agnes Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare. Jessie Buckley portrays Agnes as she grapples with the devastating loss of her young son, Hamnet, to the plague. Paul Mescal stars as the famous playwright who finds a way to channel his immense grief into his creative work. The drama examines the domestic tragedies and personal relationships that influenced some of the greatest literature in history. It offers a poignant exploration of maternal love and the resilience of the human spirit during the Elizabethan era.

‘The Bride!’ (2026)

Maggie Gyllenhaal directs this reimagining of the classic ‘Bride of Frankenstein’ story, setting the narrative in 1930s Chicago. Christian Bale stars as the lonely monster who enlists the help of a scientist to create a companion for himself. Jessie Buckley takes on the title role, portraying a reanimated woman who quickly develops her own agency and identity. The film blends gothic horror elements with period-specific aesthetics to modernize the iconic monster myth. It focuses on the protagonist’s journey toward self-discovery in a society that is fundamentally terrified of her existence.

‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Timothée Chalamet stars in this biographical drama inspired by the career of professional ping-pong player Marty Reisman. Directed by Josh Safdie, the film captures the competitive and eccentric world of table tennis during the mid-20th century. The cast features an eclectic mix of talent, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Fran Drescher, and Tyler the Creator. It explores the obsession and discipline of a champion athlete as he navigates fame within a niche sporting community. The production emphasizes a stylized visual approach to depict the intensity and personality of the historical subject.

‘People We Meet on Vacation’ (2026)

Tom Blyth and Emily Bader star in this adaptation of the best-selling romance novel by Emily Henry. The story follows two best friends with contrasting personalities who have shared a vacation every year for a decade. After a two-year silence following a falling out, they reunite for one final trip to address their complicated history and feelings. The film captures the beauty of various travel destinations while focusing on the emotional evolution of its central characters. It examines the nuances of long-term friendship and the transition into adult romantic relationships.

‘One Battle After Another’ (2025)

Leonardo DiCaprio leads this expansive historical drama directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, set against a complex socio-political backdrop. The narrative follows a protagonist navigating a series of personal and professional challenges in a rapidly changing world. Chase Infiniti makes her major film debut alongside an ensemble of veteran actors like Regina Hall and Sean Penn. The project is noted for its high production values and meticulous attention to period-accurate detail. It represents a significant cinematic event, combining character-driven storytelling with a large-scale visual presentation.

‘The Housemaid’ (2025)

Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried star in this psychological thriller directed by Paul Feig, based on the popular novel by Freida McFadden. The story follows a woman struggling to rebuild her life who takes a job as a live-in domestic worker for a wealthy couple. She soon finds herself embroiled in the family’s dark secrets and a dangerous web of psychological manipulation. The film uses a tense and atmospheric style to explore themes of class, jealousy, and the deceptive nature of social appearances. It builds suspense as the protagonist realizes her new position may have a lethal hidden cost.

’28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ (2026)

Directed by Nia DaCosta, this film serves as the second installment in the new trilogy following the events of ’28 Years Later’. The narrative continues to follow the survival efforts of characters played by Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and Erin Kellyman. It explores the evolving geopolitical landscape of a world devastated by the Rage Virus and the new factions that have emerged. The film intensifies the horror and action elements while focusing on the moral compromises required for persistence. It expands the franchise’s scope by focusing on the long-term consequences of a global biological catastrophe.

‘The Rip’ (2026)

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon reunite for this high-stakes crime thriller directed by Joe Carnahan. The plot revolves around a team of skilled operatives who become targets after a specialized mission is compromised by internal betrayal. The ensemble cast includes Scott Adkins, Teyana Taylor, and Steven Yeun, contributing to the film’s intense action sequences. The narrative emphasizes tactical realism and the complex dynamics of loyalty within the professional criminal underworld. It marks a notable collaboration between long-time creative partners in a gritty, character-focused action drama.

Tell us which of these upcoming releases you are most excited to see in the comments.