Best Rising Stars and Breakthrough Performances of 2025

The cinematic landscape of 2025 has been defined by a remarkable wave of fresh talent and transformative turns from established stars. Audiences witnessed the birth of new icons in massive superhero reboots and intimate indie dramas alike. From highly anticipated franchise leads to surprising breakout roles in original stories, these performers have reshaped Hollywood with their unique charisma and emotional depth. This collection highlights the most significant breakthrough moments and rising stars that captured the public imagination throughout the year.

David Corenswet – ‘Superman’ (2025)

David Corenswet takes on the mantle of the Man of Steel in the highly anticipated franchise reboot directed by James Gunn. The actor portrays both the optimistic Clark Kent and his powerful Kryptonian alter ego with a focus on hope and core values. This leading role marks a massive shift for Corenswet as he transitions from supporting parts in television and independent film to a global blockbuster icon. Fans have praised the physical transformation and the emotional depth he brings to this iconic character for a new generation.

Ben Wang – ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ (2025)

Ben Wang stars as Li Fong in this new chapter of the martial arts franchise that bridges the original series with the modern films. He beat out thousands of applicants to secure the lead role alongside legends Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. Wang brings a grounded vulnerability to the character of a teenager struggling to find his place while learning disciplined combat. His background in musical theater and fluency in Mandarin add a unique layer of authenticity to the performance.

Mason Thames – ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)

Mason Thames portrays the awkward and inventive Hiccup in the live-action reimagining of the beloved animated classic. The young actor captures the physical comedy and sincere heart required for a character who changes the fate of his Viking village. Thames demonstrates a strong screen presence while working in a heavily CGI environment filled with legendary dragons. This performance cements his status as a rising leading man capable of carrying major studio tentpoles.

Nico Parker – ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)

Nico Parker steps into the role of the fierce and determined Astrid in the live-action adaptation of the dragon-riding adventure. She delivers a performance that balances athletic prowess with a quiet emotional intelligence as she mentors Hiccup. Parker builds on her previous success in prestige television to prove she can handle the scale of a massive fantasy production. Her chemistry with her co-stars and dedication to the character’s signature grit make her a standout in the film.

Chase Infiniti – ‘One Battle After Another’ (2025)

Chase Infiniti delivers a stunning breakout performance in the sprawling ensemble drama directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. She plays a pivotal role as the daughter of a character portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and holds her own against industry veterans. The film showcases her ability to navigate complex emotional beats and intense action sequences with natural ease. Infiniti has quickly become one of the most talked about newcomers of the year due to this high-profile debut.

Sophie Thatcher – ‘Companion’ (2025)

Sophie Thatcher stars in the psychological thriller from the creators of the modern horror hit ‘Barbarian’ and delivers a haunting lead performance. She plays a woman trapped in an increasingly bizarre and dangerous social experiment that tests her sanity and survival instincts. Thatcher uses her expressive range to convey deep terror and calculated defiance as the plot takes multiple dark turns. Her work in this genre piece confirms her ability to lead a film with intensity and precision.

Damson Idris – ‘F1’ (2025)

Damson Idris stars as a rookie driver mentored by a veteran racer played by Brad Pitt in this high-octane sports drama. He brings a convincing physicality to the role of a professional athlete operating at the highest levels of speed and pressure. Idris successfully navigates the technical challenges of filming inside real racing cars while maintaining a compelling character arc. This performance marks a significant transition into the blockbuster sphere for the talented actor.

Maia Kealoha – ‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2025)

Maia Kealoha makes her professional film debut as the spirited and misunderstood Lilo in the live-action remake of the Disney favorite. The young actress was discovered through an open casting call in Hawaii and brings genuine local charm to the iconic role. She captures the whimsical imagination and fierce loyalty of the character while interacting with a digital Stitch. Her natural screen presence provides the emotional anchor for the family-friendly adventure.

Sydney Agudong – ‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2025)

Sydney Elizebeth Agudong portrays Nani in the live-action adaptation and explores the heavy responsibilities of a young woman raising her sister alone. She brings a grounded and realistic energy to the film that balances the supernatural elements of the alien invasion. Agudong navigates the difficult balance of being both a parental figure and a struggling sibling with great sensitivity. This role serves as a major breakthrough for the actress in a high-profile Disney production.

Eva Victor – ‘Sorry, Baby’ (2025)

Eva Victor writes and stars in this poignant indie drama that became a breakout hit after its successful festival run. They play a graduate student dealing with the complex aftermath of a life-changing event while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. Victor delivers a performance that is both devastatingly funny and deeply moving as they explore themes of trauma and identity. The film highlights their unique voice as both a storyteller and a powerful leading actor.

Miles Caton – ‘Sinners’ (2025)

Miles Caton makes a memorable film debut in the supernatural thriller directed by Ryan Coogler. He plays a key supporting role in the story of twin brothers returning to their hometown only to face a terrifying ancient evil. Caton brings a fresh and authentic energy to the ensemble cast that includes Michael B. Jordan. His performance has been noted for its maturity and the way he handles the high-stakes tension of the horror genre.

Jacobi Jupe – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Jacobi Jupe delivers a devastating and ethereal performance as the titular character in the adaptation of the acclaimed novel. He portrays the young son of William Shakespeare during a period of intense familial struggle and historical change. Jupe captures the innocence and fragility of childhood in a way that haunts the rest of the narrative. This breakout role establishes him as one of the most promising young actors working in prestige cinema today.

Odessa A’Zion – ‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Odessa A’Zion stars in the Safdie brothers production about the world of professional ping pong in the mid-twentieth century. She brings an irrepressible charisma and sharp wit to her role as a woman navigating a competitive and male-dominated environment. Her performance is characterized by a high-energy delivery and a unique physical presence that matches the film’s fast pace. A’Zion proves her versatility by moving from gritty roles into this stylish and fast-talking period piece.

Nadia Melliti – ‘The Little Sister’ (2025)

Nadia Melliti earned critical acclaim and festival honors for her lead role as Fatima in this French drama about identity and family. As a first-time actor she delivers a nuanced performance of a young woman reconciling her faith with her personal truth. The film follows her journey through a Parisian summer filled with self-discovery and difficult choices. Melliti’s quiet intensity and raw honesty have made her one of the most celebrated international breakouts of the year.

Ryan Bader – ‘The Smashing Machine’ (2025)

Ryan Bader makes a successful transition from the world of professional mixed martial arts into dramatic acting. He plays a close confidant and competitor to the lead character in the biographical drama about fighter Mark Kerr. Bader brings a surprising sensitivity and authentic physicality to his scenes with star Dwayne Johnson. His performance serves as the emotional conscience of the film and highlights the toll of the sport on its participants.

Grace Edwards – ‘Jay Kelly’ (2025)

Grace Edwards stars opposite George Clooney in the latest project from director Noah Baumbach. She plays the free-spirited daughter of a famous figure and brings a refreshing defiance to the family dynamic. Edwards holds her own against her legendary co-stars by grounding her performance in a relatable sense of teenage rebellion and longing. This role marks her arrival as a significant new talent in the world of sophisticated character-driven comedy.

Sandeep Pradeep – ‘Eko’ (2025)

Sandeep Pradeep stars in the Malayalam thriller that explores themes of technological surveillance and personal privacy. He plays a young man who becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy after discovering a mysterious glitch in his devices. Pradeep brings an intense and focused energy to the role that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. His work in the film has been hailed as a major breakthrough in contemporary South Indian cinema.

Kalyani Priyadarshan – ‘Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra’ (2025)

Kalyani Priyadarshan leads this innovative superhero film rooted in local folklore and modern urban life. She plays a mysterious woman who must reveal her true powers to stop an illegal syndicate operating in Bengaluru. Priyadarshan delivers a physically demanding performance that balances traditional action with mythological storytelling. The success of the film has turned her into the face of a new and ambitious cinematic franchise.

Shira Haas – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Shira Haas joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ruth in a role that brings a new level of complexity to the superhero genre. She portrays a character with a mysterious past and unique abilities that challenge the titular hero’s perspective. Haas brings her signature intensity and emotional range to the blockbuster stage following her success in independent television. Her presence in the film adds a grounded and compelling human element to the high-stakes political thriller.

Geraldine Viswanathan – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Geraldine Viswanathan makes her mark in the superhero ensemble as a character who brings humor and heart to a team of anti-heroes. She navigates the large-scale action sequences with ease while providing much-needed comedic relief and emotional grounding. Viswanathan continues to show her versatility by jumping from indie comedies into a major multi-million dollar franchise. Her performance is highlighted as a standout in a film filled with established characters and big personalities.

Lewis Pullman – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Lewis Pullman takes on a significant role in the Marvel universe as a character grappling with immense power and ethical dilemmas. He brings a sense of vulnerability and mystery to the ensemble that keeps the audience questioning his true motives. Pullman builds on his previous success in action films to deliver a performance that is both physically imposing and emotionally resonant. His work in the film cements his place as a rising star in the current generation of Hollywood leads.

Cooper Hoffman – ‘The Long Walk’ (2025)

Cooper Hoffman leads the adaptation of the Stephen King novel about a grueling and deadly walking contest in a dystopian future. He portrays a young man pushed to his absolute physical and mental limits as he competes for a life-changing prize. Hoffman delivers a grueling performance that requires immense stamina and a wide emotional range to convey desperation and hope. This role follows his earlier acclaimed debut and proves he is capable of carrying a dark and demanding narrative.

SZA – ‘One of Them Days’ (2025)

SZA makes a highly anticipated transition into acting with a leading role in the comedy produced by Issa Rae. She plays a woman dealing with a series of hilarious and increasingly stressful events over the course of a single day. Her performance is praised for its natural timing and the effortless chemistry she shares with co-star Keke Palmer. This breakthrough turn suggests a promising future for the musician in the world of scripted entertainment.

Yonas Kibreab – ‘Elio’ (2025)

Yonas Kibreab provides the voice and heart for the titular character in the Pixar adventure about an underdog boy who becomes an accidental ambassador for Earth. He brings a sincere and wide-eyed wonder to the role that makes the alien encounters feel personal and emotional. Kibreab’s performance is the driving force behind the film’s message of courage and belonging. The young actor proves he can lead a major animated feature with charisma and vocal range.

Emma Myers – ‘A Minecraft Movie’ (2025)

Emma Myers stars in the live-action adaptation of the global gaming phenomenon and brings a sense of adventure to the blocky world. She portrays a young explorer who must navigate the dangers of the Overworld while helping her companions find their way home. Myers uses her experience in genre storytelling to bring a relatable human element to the stylized environment. Her performance is a key part of the film’s appeal to both longtime fans and new audiences.

Mia Tomlinson – ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ (2025)

Mia Tomlinson makes a significant breakthrough in the latest installment of the long-running horror franchise. She plays a character caught at the center of a terrifying new haunting that requires the help of the Warren family. Tomlinson delivers a physically and emotionally taxing performance that emphasizes the psychological toll of supernatural occurrences. Her work in the film has been noted for bringing fresh energy to the established horror series.

Isabela Merced – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Isabela Merced portrays the winged hero Hawkgirl in the rebooted superhero universe and brings a fierce independence to the character. She delivers an action-heavy performance that showcases her training and ability to work within complex visual effects. Merced also explores the personal side of a hero trying to balance her past with the needs of a modern world. This role marks a major step up in her career and establishes her as a significant player in the new franchise.

Nicholas Hoult – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Nicholas Hoult takes on the iconic role of Lex Luthor and delivers a performance that emphasizes intellect and quiet menace. He reimagines the classic villain for a modern audience with a focus on corporate power and philosophical obsession. Hoult’s portrayal is a significant departure from previous versions and highlights his ability to disappear into complex antagonistic roles. This performance is widely considered one of the strongest villainous turns in the history of the genre.

Teyana Taylor – ‘One Battle After Another’ (2025)

Teyana Taylor delivers a powerful and grounded performance in the period drama set against a backdrop of social change. She portrays a woman fighting for her family and community with a sense of resilience and dignity. Taylor continues to build on her reputation for raw and emotional acting after her previous successful turns in independent film. Her presence in the ensemble provides some of the most poignant moments in the entire production.

Jodie Comer – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Jodie Comer leads the revival of the groundbreaking post-apocalyptic franchise and brings a sense of desperate humanity to the wasteland. She plays a survivor navigating a world that has been transformed by a long-running infection and the collapse of society. Comer uses her incredible range to portray a character who is both hardened by the environment and capable of deep empathy. Her performance serves as the emotional bridge between the original films and this new trilogy.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Aaron Taylor-Johnson stars in the survival horror epic and delivers a physically intense performance as a man fighting for the future of his community. He brings a rugged and determined energy to the screen that anchors the film’s many high-stakes action sequences. Taylor-Johnson’s portrayal explores the psychological effects of living in a world defined by constant danger. This role confirms his status as a premier action lead who can also handle complex character work.

Ralph Fiennes – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Ralph Fiennes delivers a haunting and unexpected performance in the horror sequel as a doctor who has found a unique way to live in the apocalypse. He brings a sense of calm and intellectual curiosity to a world defined by chaos and violence. Fiennes portrays the character with a quiet complexity that makes the audience question his sanity and his morality. His work in the film is cited as a masterclass in building tension through dialogue and presence.

Paul Mescal – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Paul Mescal stars as a fictionalized version of William Shakespeare in the emotional drama about the death of his son and the creation of his most famous play. He portrays the artist as a man torn between his professional ambitions and his deep grief as a father. Mescal delivers a quiet and introspective performance that captures the internal life of a literary giant. This role adds another prestigious credit to his rapidly growing filmography of sensitive leading men.

Jessie Buckley – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Jessie Buckley plays Agnes in the adaptation of the celebrated novel and brings an ethereal and wild quality to the screen. She portrays a woman with a deep connection to the natural world who must navigate the profound loss of her child. Buckley’s performance is characterized by its raw emotional power and the subtle ways she conveys a mother’s intuition. Her work in the film is a central part of why the story resonates so deeply with modern audiences.

Stellan Skarsgård – ‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)

Stellan Skarsgård stars in the latest film from director Joachim Trier as a man returning to his family after a long absence. He brings a complex mix of regret and charm to the role of a father attempting to reconnect with his adult daughters. Skarsgård’s performance is a cornerstone of the domestic drama that explores the messy realities of family legacy. His ability to convey decades of history in a single look makes this one of the most resonant turns of the year.

Renate Reinsve – ‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)

Renate Reinsve reunites with the director who led her to international stardom and delivers another exceptional performance. She plays an actress dealing with her own career struggles while facing the return of her estranged father. Reinsve captures the modern anxiety and emotional vulnerability of her generation with precision and grace. Her work in the film highlights her status as one of the most exciting and versatile actors in contemporary international cinema.

Timothée Chalamet – ‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Timothée Chalamet delivers an energetic and transformative performance as a professional ping pong player in a fast-paced period comedy. He embraces a more physical and comedic style than in his previous dramatic roles while maintaining his signature intensity. Chalamet disappears into the competitive world of mid-century athletics with a performance that is both stylish and hilariously determined. This role proves he is willing to take creative risks and explore different genres as a leading man.

Jacob Elordi – ‘Frankenstein’ (2025)

Jacob Elordi takes on the monumental task of playing the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s gothic masterpiece. He uses his height and a specialized physical performance to create a version of the monster that is both terrifying and deeply tragic. Elordi works through extensive prosthetics to deliver a soulful performance that emphasizes the character’s loneliness and search for meaning. This role is a major departure from his heartthrob image and showcases his serious dramatic potential.

Rose Byrne – ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ (2025)

Rose Byrne stars in the unconventional drama and delivers a performance that has been hailed as the strongest of her career. She plays a woman navigating a complex personal crisis with a blend of dark humor and profound sadness. Byrne manages to find the humanity in a difficult character while keeping the audience engaged with her unique comic timing. The film allows her to showcase her full range in a story that refuses to follow traditional narrative rules.

Wagner Moura – ‘The Secret Agent’ (2025)

Wagner Moura returns to Brazilian cinema in a high-stakes thriller set during the historical period of the military dictatorship. He plays an enigmatic tech expert who gets caught in a web of espionage while trying to protect his family. Moura brings a slow-burn intensity to the role that highlights the constant fear and tension of the era. His performance has been praised internationally for its depth and the way he navigates the complex political plot.

Michael Cera – ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ (2025)

Michael Cera stars in the latest feature from director Wes Anderson and brings his unique sensibilities to a stylized spy adventure. He plays a key operative in a globe-trotting mission that involves a large ensemble of eccentric characters. Cera fits perfectly into the precise and whimsical world of the film while adding a layer of sincere emotion. His performance reminds audiences of his ability to anchor even the most fantastical stories with a relatable human core.

Amanda Seyfried – ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ (2025)

Amanda Seyfried portrays the founder of the Shakers in a historical drama that explores the origins of the religious movement. She delivers a rigorous and intense performance of a woman who believes she has a divine mission to change the world. Seyfried captures the charisma and the controversy of the historical figure with a performance that is both grounded and visionary. This role allows her to explore a complex and often misunderstood part of American history.

Jeremy Allen White – ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere’ (2025)

Jeremy Allen White takes on the challenge of playing Bruce Springsteen during the creation of his iconic ‘Nebraska’ album. He captures the grit and the creative isolation of the legendary musician without falling into simple imitation. White brings the same intensity he is known for in his television work to this high-profile biographical drama. His performance explores the dark and introspective period of the artist’s life that redefined his career.

Pamela Anderson – ‘The Naked Gun’ (2025)

Pamela Anderson makes a surprising and successful return to the big screen in the reboot of the legendary spoof franchise. She plays the female lead opposite Liam Neeson and demonstrates an excellent grasp of deadpan physical comedy. Anderson’s performance has been a major talking point for her ability to lean into the genre’s absurdity with confidence. Her role in the film has been cited as a successful career reinvention and a highlight of the year’s comedies.

Joseph Quinn – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Joseph Quinn brings the character of Johnny Storm to life with an infectious energy and a natural charm that lights up the screen. He portrays the Human Torch as a high-spirited and adventurous young man who must learn to handle his incredible new powers. Quinn’s performance captures the sense of wonder and fun that defines the best parts of the superhero genre. His chemistry with the rest of the team provides the film with its vibrant and youthful heart.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach delivers a soulful and physically demanding performance as Ben Grimm in the Marvel reboot. He explores the tragedy and the resilience of a man transformed into a rocky giant while trying to maintain his humanity. Moss-Bachrach brings a layer of depth to the character that goes beyond the impressive visual effects and prosthetics. His portrayal is the emotional backbone of the team and has been widely praised by fans of the comic series.

Vanessa Kirby – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Vanessa Kirby portrays Sue Storm and brings a sense of intelligence and quiet strength to the team’s leadership. She navigates the complex dynamics of being a scientist and a superhero with a performance that is both authoritative and empathetic. Kirby uses her experience in prestige drama to ground the high-concept science fiction elements in a believable human reality. Her work in the film establishes her as one of the most important figures in the new era of the franchise.

Toby Wallace – ‘Last Days’ (2025)

Toby Wallace delivers an intense and immersive performance in the survival thriller about a man attempting to reach a secluded island. He portrays the character’s physical deterioration and mental obsession with a terrifying level of commitment. The film relies heavily on his performance to convey the isolation and the dangers of the environment. Wallace confirms his status as a daring actor willing to take on extreme and challenging roles in independent cinema.

Please share your thoughts on these breakout performances in the comments.