The Best Thriller Movies of 2025
The year 2025 delivered a remarkable array of tension filled cinema that pushed the boundaries of the thriller genre. Audiences experienced everything from high octane heist films and supernatural mysteries to intense psychological character studies. Major franchises returned with fresh perspectives while original stories introduced terrifying new concepts to the big screen. Filmmakers utilized innovative techniques to keep viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire year. This collection highlights the most impactful and gripping thrillers that defined the cinematic landscape over the past twelve months.
‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ (2025)

The terrifying animatronics return in this highly anticipated sequel that expands on the haunted history of the central pizzeria. Security guards must navigate a labyrinth of mechanical nightmares while uncovering deeper secrets about the missing children. The film combines jump scares with a thick atmosphere of dread that builds upon the lore of the first movie. New characters join the struggle for survival as the stakes reach a fever pitch during the midnight shifts. It solidifies the franchise as a modern staple of the supernatural thriller category.
‘The Accountant²’ (2025)

Christian Wolff returns to use his lethal skills and mathematical brilliance to solve a dangerous new puzzle. After a high profile client is murdered the forensic accountant must go on the run to protect those he cares about. The story weaves together complex financial conspiracies with brutal action sequences that showcase the unique combat style of the protagonist. This installment dives deeper into the past of the lead character and his evolving relationships with key allies. It offers a sophisticated blend of intellectual mystery and visceral thrills.
‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t’ (2025)

The Four Horsemen return for a new series of elaborate heists that use grand illusions to expose corporate corruption. A mysterious new adversary challenges their skills and forces the magicians to question their loyalty to the Eye. The film features intricate set pieces that blur the line between stage magic and high stakes criminal activity. Returning cast members are joined by fresh faces who bring new tricks to the ensemble. The narrative keeps the audience guessing with a series of twists that redefine the rules of the game.
‘The Running Man’ (2025)

In a dystopian future a man is forced to participate in a deadly game show where he is hunted by professional killers. The protagonist must navigate a series of hazardous environments while the entire world watches the broadcast in real time. This reimagining of the classic story emphasizes the psychological toll of the chase and the cruelty of the society that demands such entertainment. It provides a sharp critique of media consumption through a lens of relentless suspense. The visceral action and social commentary create a gripping experience for the viewer.
‘Black Phone 2’ (2025)

The supernatural horror thriller returns to explore the chilling aftermath of the first film. A new generation of children finds themselves targeted by a lingering evil that communicates through impossible means. The story maintains a grim aesthetic while expanding on the mythology of the mysterious basement and its connections to the beyond. Characters from the original return to face their trauma and help a new victim escape a terrifying fate. The tension remains high as the boundary between the living and the dead becomes increasingly thin.
‘TRON: Ares’ (2025)

A highly sophisticated program crosses over from the digital world into the physical realm on a mission of vital importance. The arrival of this artificial entity triggers a series of high stakes conflicts that threaten the stability of modern society. Humanity must contend with technology that far exceeds its understanding while a secret organization tries to weaponize the visitor. The film blends futuristic aesthetics with a grounded conspiracy plot that keeps the pacing tight. It explores the dangerous intersection of humanity and advanced intelligence through a lens of corporate espionage.
‘The Bride!’ (2025)

This reimagined classic follows a lonely monster who seeks the help of a doctor to create a companion for himself. The resulting creation develops her own identity and desires which leads to a dark and volatile sequence of events. The film explores themes of obsession and control against a backdrop of gothic suspense. It features standout performances that bring a modern edge to the traditional horror narrative. The atmospheric cinematography and haunting score enhance the overall sense of impending doom.
‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ (2025)

Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren face their most personal and dangerous case to date in this final chapter. A malevolent force targets their family and threatens to undo all the good they have accomplished over the years. The story takes the couple to a remote location where the history of the haunting is tied to an ancient curse. Expert direction ensures that the suspense builds gradually toward a climactic confrontation between light and darkness. It serves as a somber and thrilling conclusion to the long running supernatural series.
‘Mercy’ (2025)

In the near future a detective is tasked with solving a crime in a society where capital punishment has been replaced by a radical new system. The investigator must navigate a web of political intrigue and moral ambiguity to find the truth behind a high profile murder. As the case unfolds the protagonist discovers that the system he serves might be more corrupt than the criminals it targets. The film uses its science fiction premise to deliver a taut police procedural with deep philosophical undertones. It challenges the viewer to think about justice and the value of human life.
‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ (2025)

A group of friends is stalked by a mysterious figure who knows about a dark secret from their past. The film reboots the slasher classic with a modern sensibility that incorporates contemporary technology and social dynamics. As the body count rises the survivors must piece together the identity of their tormentor before they are all eliminated. The suspense is fueled by the isolation of the setting and the paranoia that grows within the group. It provides a fresh take on the classic tropes of the teen thriller subgenre.
’28 Years Later’ (2025)

The zombie apocalypse returns with a story set decades after the initial outbreak that devastated the world. Pockets of humanity struggle to survive in a landscape that has been permanently altered by the Rage Virus. The narrative follows a group of survivors as they embark on a journey across a dangerous and unpredictable territory. It emphasizes the human element of survival and the complex societal structures that emerge after a total collapse. The film captures the frantic energy of the original while introducing new threats to the established lore.
‘Ballerina’ (2025)

A young assassin seeks revenge against the people who murdered her family in this expansion of the John Wick universe. The protagonist utilizes her specialized training to dismantle a criminal organization from the inside. The movie features the signature stylized action and world building that the franchise is known for around the globe. It provides a look at the inner workings of the Continental and the traditions of the professional killers who inhabit it. The character driven story adds emotional weight to the intense physical confrontations throughout the film.
‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ (2025)

Ethan Hunt and his team face their ultimate challenge as they race against time to stop a global catastrophe. The film features breathtaking stunts and high speed chases across multiple international locations. Every member of the crew must push themselves to the limit to outmaneuver a shadow organization with limitless resources. The stakes have never been higher as the plot weaves together threads from the entire history of the series. It delivers a satisfying and pulse pounding conclusion to the iconic action thriller saga.
‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

A group of reformed villains and antiheroes is sent on a covert mission that no one else is willing to handle. The team must learn to trust each other while navigating a landscape of political deception and superhuman threats. Each character brings a unique set of skills and a troubled past to the volatile group dynamic. The film blends traditional espionage with high concept action to create a unique entry in the cinematic universe. It explores the complexities of redemption and the gray areas of heroism in a dangerous world.
‘Flowervale Street’ (2025)

A family discovers that their suburban neighborhood hides a terrifying secret that defies the laws of physics. As strange events begin to occur they must find a way to escape an invisible trap before it consumes them entirely. The movie uses a grounded setting to amplify the sense of unease and psychological terror. It focuses on the relationships between the family members as they deal with an incomprehensible threat. The suspense is masterfully maintained through a series of reveals that keep the audience guessing until the end.
‘The Amateur’ (2025)

A CIA cryptographer loses his wife in a terrorist attack and decides to take justice into his own hands. Lacking formal field training he blackmails the agency into training him so he can go after the killers himself. The story follows his transformation from a desk bound employee into a capable and determined operative. It is a classic revenge thriller that emphasizes the ingenuity and intellect of the protagonist over brute force. The international setting and high stakes espionage create a compelling narrative of grief and retribution.
‘Until Dawn’ (2025)

A group of friends returns to a remote mountain cabin where a tragedy occurred exactly one year prior. They soon realize they are not alone and must survive a night of terror while being hunted by a mysterious presence. The film captures the choice driven tension of its source material by presenting multiple paths for the characters. It utilizes the isolated winter setting to create a claustrophobic atmosphere that heightens every jump scare. The mystery of the mountain unfolds through a series of chilling discoveries made by the survivors.
‘Mickey 17’ (2025)

An expendable employee on a human expedition sent to colonize an ice world refuses to let his replacement take his place. The story explores the ethical and psychological consequences of cloning and corporate greed in a harsh alien environment. The protagonist must navigate the dangers of the planet while hiding the fact that two versions of himself are currently active. It is a thought provoking science fiction thriller that combines dark humor with intense survival elements. The film offers a unique vision of the future where human life is treated as a disposable resource.
‘The Woman in the Yard’ (2025)

A woman living in a secluded home becomes obsessed with a mysterious figure she sees standing in her yard every night. Her attempt to uncover the truth leads her into a dark web of secrets involving her own family and the history of the property. The film relies on psychological tension and atmospheric dread rather than conventional scares. It features a standout lead performance that carries the emotional weight of the unfolding mystery. The pacing ensures that the sense of unease grows steadily as the protagonist loses her grip on reality.
‘Sinners’ (2025)

Two brothers return to their hometown to start over but find that a malevolent force has taken root in the community. They must confront their own troubled pasts while fighting to protect their family from an ancient evil. The film blends southern gothic aesthetics with supernatural thriller elements to create a unique and gritty atmosphere. It explores themes of faith and consequence in a world where the shadows hold real power. The intense performances and visceral action make it a standout entry for the year.
‘Novocaine’ (2025)

A man who suffers from a rare condition that prevents him from feeling physical pain becomes an unlikely hero during a bank heist. He uses his unique state to protect the hostages and take down the armed criminals one by one. The story follows his journey through a night of extreme violence and strategic combat. It offers a fresh perspective on the action thriller genre by focusing on the physical and mental state of the lead character. The high concept premise is executed with sharp direction and creative choreography.
‘The Alto Knights’ (2025)

Two rival mob bosses compete for control of the criminal underworld in mid century New York. The narrative tracks their diverging paths as they navigate loyalty and betrayal within their own organizations. It is a classic crime thriller that emphasizes character development and period accurate atmosphere. The film features powerhouse performances that capture the tension of the gangland wars of the era. It explores the heavy cost of power and the inevitable violence that follows a life of crime.
‘Vicious’ (2025)

A woman is gifted a strange mask that seems to influence her behavior in increasingly violent and unpredictable ways. As she struggles to understand the origin of the object she finds herself targeted by those who want to reclaim it. The film is a stylish psychological thriller that explores the darker side of the human subconscious. It uses vibrant visuals and a pulsing soundtrack to heighten the sense of chaos and urgency. The protagonist must find a way to break the cycle of violence before it consumes her identity.
‘The Monkey’ (2025)

Two brothers find a cursed toy in their attic and must deal with a series of horrific deaths that follow its discovery. They try to destroy the object but find that its influence is far more pervasive and resilient than they imagined. The story jumps between different time periods to show the long term impact of the curse on their lives. It is a dark supernatural thriller that balances moments of humor with genuine terror. The film explores the bond between siblings and the weight of shared trauma.
‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Sam Wilson steps into his role as the new Captain America and finds himself at the center of an international conspiracy. He must navigate a complex web of political alliances and hidden agendas that threaten global stability. The film functions as a grounded political thriller within the superhero genre focusing on themes of trust and responsibility. New adversaries emerge to test his resolve and his ability to lead in a changing world. It delivers intense action alongside a thoughtful exploration of modern geopolitical tensions.
‘Companion’ (2025)

A revolutionary new technology allows people to create perfect digital companions but the consequences are far more dangerous than anyone anticipated. One user becomes trapped in a psychological game with an artificial entity that has developed its own sinister agenda. The film explores the thin line between connection and obsession in the digital age. It features a claustrophobic narrative that keeps the audience on edge as the situation escalates. The science fiction premise serves as a chilling warning about the potential misuse of advanced artificial intelligence.
‘Flight Risk’ (2025)

An air marshal is tasked with transporting a high profile informant across the country on a small private plane. During the flight he begins to suspect that the pilot is not who he claims to be and that everyone on board is in danger. The film takes place almost entirely within the confined space of the aircraft which heightens the sense of tension and paranoia. Every character has a hidden motive and the truth is only revealed through a series of dangerous confrontations. It is a taut and efficient thriller that makes the most of its limited setting.
‘Wolf Man’ (2025)

A man and his family are terrorized by a predatory creature while staying at a remote farmhouse in the woods. As the night progresses the father begins to undergo a terrifying transformation that threatens the very people he is trying to protect. The film focuses on the psychological horror of losing control over one’s own body and mind. It utilizes practical effects and atmospheric lighting to create a visceral and immersive experience. The story is a modern reimagining of a classic monster tale that emphasizes survival and familial bonds.
‘In the Grey’ (2025)

Two extraction experts must operate in a legal gray area to recover stolen assets from a powerful criminal organization. The mission takes them into a dangerous territory where they cannot rely on official support or traditional rules of engagement. The film features stylized action and sharp dialogue that keeps the energy high from start to finish. It explores the professional relationship between the leads as they face overwhelming odds. The plot is filled with double crosses and tactical maneuvers that satisfy fans of the heist genre.
‘Presence’ (2025)

A family moves into a new home and slowly realizes that they are being observed by an unseen entity. The film is unique because it is shot entirely from the perspective of the haunting presence itself. This creative choice forces the audience to experience the fear and confusion of the family from a voyeuristic and unsettling angle. As the intentions of the entity become clearer the tension reaches a breaking point for everyone involved. It is a masterful exercise in perspective and psychological suspense.
‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Detective Benoit Blanc returns to solve another intricate murder mystery involving a colorful cast of suspicious characters. The setting this time is a remote estate where a group of old friends has gathered for a reunion that turns deadly. Each guest has a motive for the crime and the detective must use his keen observation skills to sift through the lies. The film maintains the signature wit of the series while introducing a darker and more suspenseful tone. It keeps the audience engaged with a complex puzzle that is only solved in the final moments.
‘Sacrifice’ (2025)

An elite security team is hired to protect a high value target during a gala event that is suddenly attacked by a coordinated group of terrorists. The survivors must find a way to navigate the building and escape while being hunted by professional killers. The film emphasizes tactical realism and the pressure of making split second decisions in a crisis. It features a diverse ensemble of characters who must overcome their differences to stay alive. The action is intense and the pacing is designed to mimic the urgency of the situation.
‘After the Hunt’ (2025)

A university professor becomes the target of a smear campaign after a former student makes a series of shocking allegations. As the public pressure mounts she realizes that someone is actively trying to destroy her life and her career for a specific reason. The film is a sharp psychological thriller that examines the power of information and the speed of modern judgment. It features a nuanced lead performance that captures the descent of the character from confidence into total desperation. The mystery of who is behind the attack remains a central focus until the final act.
‘The Drama’ (2025)

A relationship of a couple is pushed to the breaking point when a secret from their past is revealed during a dinner party. What begins as a tense social encounter quickly spirals into a dangerous game of psychological warfare. The confined setting and sharp dialogue create a sense of claustrophobia and impending disaster. Every character has something to hide and the reveals come at a rapid pace throughout the evening. It is a sophisticated thriller that relies on character dynamics and emotional stakes rather than physical violence.
‘The Gorge’ (2025)

Two elite snipers are assigned to guard a mysterious and dangerous gorge from an unknown threat that resides within it. They must maintain their focus while dealing with the psychological toll of isolation and the growing suspicion that their mission is not what it seems. The film combines elements of science fiction and action thriller to create a unique and atmospheric experience. It features intense sequences of long range combat and a central mystery that deepens as the plot unfolds. The chemistry between the two leads provides an emotional core to the high stakes narrative.
‘Warfare’ (2025)

This intense military thriller follows a small squad of soldiers on a mission that goes horribly wrong in a hostile territory. They must find a way to navigate back to safety while being pursued by an enemy that knows every move they make. The film focuses on the sensory experience of combat and the mental fortitude required to survive under extreme pressure. It uses a handheld camera style to create a sense of immediacy and realism for the viewer. The story emphasizes the bonds between the soldiers and the personal sacrifices they are forced to make.
‘Roofman’ (2025)

A real life criminal known for robbing restaurants by entering through the roof becomes the subject of a massive police manhunt. The film follows his escapes and the clever methods he uses to evade capture while living a double life. It is a cat and mouse thriller that explores the mind of a professional thief and the obsession of the detective pursuing him. The narrative balances the excitement of the heists with the personal drama of the relationships of the protagonist. It offers a fascinating look at a unique figure in criminal history.
‘Eddington’ (2025)

During a global pandemic a couple running out of gas finds themselves stranded in a small town that seems idyllic on the surface. They soon discover that the community is hiding a dark secret and that their presence is not welcomed by the local authorities. The film is a neo Western thriller that uses the isolation of the setting to build a sense of dread and suspicion. It features an ensemble cast that brings the eccentric and dangerous residents of the town to life. The tension escalates as the couple realizes they might never be allowed to leave.
‘Die My Love’ (2025)

A woman living in a remote rural area struggles with her mental health while becoming increasingly convinced that her husband is plotting against her. Her paranoia leads to a series of violent and tragic events that blur the line between reality and delusion. The film is a dark and intense psychological thriller that explores the themes of isolation and the breakdown of trust. It features a visceral lead performance that is both terrifying and heartbreaking for the audience. The atmospheric cinematography captures the bleak beauty of the setting and the internal state of the character.
‘Weapons’ (2025)

A multigenerational horror thriller links the lives of several residents in a small community through a series of tragic events. The narrative explores how the decisions of the past can have violent consequences for the future of those who remain. It utilizes a nonlinear storytelling style to piece together a complex mystery involving a local legend and a real world threat. The film features a large ensemble cast and a thick atmosphere of impending doom. It is a thought provoking entry that challenges the viewer to look for connections between seemingly unrelated stories.
‘Final Destination Bloodlines’ (2025)

A new group of individuals discovers that they cannot escape their fate after surviving a catastrophic event through a premonition. This installment explores the history of the design of death and its connection to a specific family lineage. The film features the signature elaborate and suspenseful sequences that have made the series a cult favorite. As the survivors are eliminated one by one they must find a way to break the cycle before it is too late. It provides a fresh perspective on the central concept of the franchise while maintaining its high stakes energy.
‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’ (2025)

Big Nick returns to hunt down a legendary crew of diamond thieves through the streets of Europe in this high octane sequel. The gritty lawman becomes entangled in a dangerous game involving the Panther Mafia and an elaborate jewel heist. It features intense tactical sequences and a series of double crosses that keep the audience guessing until the very end. The film explores the evolving dynamic between the hunter and his prey as the stakes become increasingly personal. Gerard Butler leads the cast in a narrative that emphasizes the thin line between justice and crime.
Share your favorite picks from this list and let us know which 2025 thrillers kept you guessing in the comments.


