Summary

• The star-studded casts of upcoming movies like Megalopolis and Thunderbolts promise unforgettable performances and box office success.
• Directorial vision and intriguing plotlines, coupled with exceptional talent like Adam Driver and Florence Pugh, fuel anticipation for these films.
• From iconic roles to new directions for franchises, the casts of projects like 28 Years Later are poised to deliver thrilling cinematic experiences.

While many factors contribute to the success of a new movie upon its release, there are a few upcoming flicks that are set to be hits because of their perfect casting. From star-studded ensembles to talented actors taking on iconic roles, these films have assembled casts that promise to captivate audiences and bring compelling stories to life. Whether it’s the combination of Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn in Paul Thomas Anderson’s untitled project, or the casting of Ralph Fiennes, Jodie Comer, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson in the long-awaited sequel 28 Years Later, these movies are sure to deliver unforgettable performances.

The anticipation surrounding these projects is fueled not only by the star power of the cast, but also by the intriguing plotlines and visionary direction promised by the filmmakers. Other notable examples include the diverse cast of Thunderbolts, featuring Sebastian Stan, Florence Pugh, and David Harbour, and the star-studded Megalopolis, boasting names like Adam Driver, Aubrey Plaza, and Laurence Fishburne. With such exceptional talent on board, these upcoming films are poised to make a significant impact at the box office and leave a lasting impression on cinema.

10 Megalopolis

Release Date: September 2024

With an all-star ensemble cast featuring some of Hollywood’s most talented actors, Megalopolis is bound for success even before its September 2024 release. Academy Award-nominated actor Adam Driver, currently known for his iconic role in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, brings his undeniable star power to the project. The always charming Aubrey Plaza will bring not only perfectly timed comedy, but dramatic versatility as seen in her roles on Parks & Recreation and her recent turn in The White Lotus. Additionally, Game of Thrones fan favorite Nathalie Emmanuel will add both depth and international appeal to the cast.

Laurence Fishburne, a veteran actor with an impressive resume including the John Wick series and the Matrix franchise, promises to add an edge to the movie. Jason Schwartzman, a frequent collaborator with acclaimed director Wes Anderson, offers a unique and quirky presence. Finally, Giancarlo Esposito, known for his captivating performances in Breaking Bad and The Boys, rounds out this exceptional cast with his undeniable talent. Despite some release problems surrounding Megalopolis, the combined star power of these industry heavyweights virtually guarantees it will be a must-see film.

9 Gladiator 2

Release Date: November 22, 2024

The star-studded ensemble of Gladiator 2 continues to grow, with each new addition further solidifying the film’s potential for box office success. Paul Mescal, fresh off his Oscar nomination for his heartfelt performance in Aftersun, takes on the lead role of Lucius, the nephew of the villainous Commodus from the original film. Gladiator 2’s supporting cast features Denzel Washington, a two-time Academy Award winner known for Training Day and Fences, brings his undeniable talent to the project. Joseph Quinn, who captivated audiences with his breakout role in Stranger Things, showcases his range in this epic historical drama.

Reprising her role from the first Gladiator film is Connie Nielsen, offering a sense of continuity and depth to the sequel. Pedro Pascal, a versatile actor who has made a name for himself in projects like Game of Thrones and The Mandalorian, adds another layer of star power to the already impressive cast. Finally, Fred Hechinger, who stepped in to replace Barry Keoghan, has already proven his acting chops in projects like The White Lotus and Fear Street.

8 Nosferatu

Release Date: December 25, 2024

The combination of Robert Eggers’ directorial vision and the exceptional cast he has assembled for his reimagining of the black and white classic horror movie Nosferatu sets the stage for a potentially groundbreaking film. Bill Skarsgård, who terrified audiences with his portrayal of Pennywise in the IT films, takes on the role of Count Orlock, bringing a fresh and unsettling perspective to the iconic vampire. Lily-Rose Depp, known for her captivating performances in The King and Voyagers, plays Ellen Hutter, the troubled young woman entangled in a complex relationship with the enigmatic Count.

This exciting upcoming movie reboot also stars Nicholas Hoult, a versatile actor with an impressive resume including roles in Mad Max: Fury Road and The Menu, who will add intrigue to the ensemble. Willem Dafoe, a master of intense and memorable characters in films like The Lighthouse and Poor Things, brings his undeniable screen presence to the project. The movie will also star Aaron Taylor-Johnson, acclaimed for his roles in Kick-Ass and Nocturnal Animals, further elevating the cast.

7 Mickey 17

Release Date: January 31, 2025

Parasite’s Bong Joon-ho brings the highly anticipated sci-fi film Mickey 17 to theaters with an impressive cast, led by the talented Robert Pattinson. Proving his acting chops with his acclaimed performance in The Batman, Pattinson takes on the complex role of an “expendable” clone tasked with colonizing an ice planet. Steven Yeun, known for his powerful performances in films like Minari and the series Beef, will add some much needed depth to an undoubtedly powerful character. A powerful story is almost always promised when Toni Collette is the star, who captivated audiences with her intense portrayal in Hereditary.

Additionally, Mark Ruffalo, an Academy Award nominee for his roles in Spotlight and The Kids Are All Right, contributes his considerable talent to the ensemble. Naomi Ackie, who impressively portrayed Whitney Houston in the biopic I Wanna Dance with Somebody, rounds out this exceptional cast. With such a diverse and accomplished group of actors, Mickey 17 will for sure be a hit, as each cast member brings their unique skills and experiences to the project.

6 Minecraft

Release Date: April 4, 2025

The current trend of video game adaptations continues in full force with the upcoming Minecraft movie. While movies about popular video games tend to do well, Minecraft’s all-star cast promises to be a blockbuster hit. Jason Momoa, known for his charismatic performances in Aquaman and Game of Thrones, takes the lead role, bringing his undeniable star power to the project. Jack Black, a versatile actor known for other movies based on video games like Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and The Super Mario Bros. Movie will portray the iconic character Steve, adding his unique brand of humor and energy to the film.

The beloved White Lotus actress Jennifer Coolidge will bring her comedic timing to the ensemble, while Matt Berry, known for his standout roles in What We Do in the Shadows and Toast of London, adds his distinct voice and wit to the cast. Kate McKinnon from Saturday Night Live and Barbie contributes her improv skills and comedic presence. Additionally, Minecraft will star Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords, Emma Myers, from the hit series Wednesday, and Danielle Brooks, known for her powerful performances in Orange Is the New Black and The Color Purple, rounding out this impressive ensemble.

5 Thunderbolts

Release Date: May 5, 2025

A diverse range of talented actors from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been brought together for Thunderbolts, promising to deliver an action-packed and character-driven film. The incredibly talented Sebastian Stan, who plays Bucky Barnes in the Captain America films and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, will for sure bring intensity to the project. Florence Pugh, who captivated audiences with her performance as Yelena Belova in Black Widow, contributes her undeniable screen presence and comedic timing to the ensemble.

Wyatt Russell, fresh off his unsettling turn as John Walker in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, adds his unique brand of charisma to the mix. Hannah John-Kamen, who portrayed the enigmatic Ghost in Ant-Man and the Wasp, brings her subtle yet powerful acting skills to the table. David Harbour, known for his memorable roles in Stranger Things and Black Widow, infuses the film with his commanding presence as Red Guardian. Newcomers to the MCU, including Geraldine Viswanathan (Miracle Workers) and Lewis Pullman (Top Gun: Maverick), will inject fresh talent into this already impressive lineup.

4 Ballerina

Release Date: June 6, 2025

With Ana de Armas taking the lead role, Ballerina will be a thrilling addition to the John Wick universe. De Armas, who has proven her strong acting abilities in Knives Out and Blonde, brings her undeniable talent to the role of the titular ballerina, a skilled assassin seeking revenge for her parents’ murder. Returning is Anjelica Huston, who reprises her role as the Director. In addition, the late Lance Reddick, known for his roles in The Wire and John Wick, contributes his understated intensity as Charon.

The veteran actor Ian McShane brings his signature charm as Winston. Keanu Reeves, the face of the John Wick franchise, makes an appearance as the iconic assassin, further connecting Ballerina to the larger narrative. Newcomers to the series, including Gabriel Byrne, Norman Reedus, Catalina Sandino, David Castañeda, and Sharon Duncan-Brewster, each bring their unique talents to the ensemble, adding depth and complexity to the story.

3 Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Movie

Release Date: August 8, 2025

With Leonardo DiCaprio, one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation, leading the cast, Paul Thomas Anderson’s untitled project is set to be a cinematic tour de force. Sean Penn, an Academy Award winner known for his intense performances in films like Mystic River and Milk, brings his undeniable talent to the project. Regina Hall, one of comedy’s up-and-coming leading ladies, will add depth and versatility to the ensemble. Teyana Taylor, a multifaceted artist who recently impressed in A Thousand and One, contributes her unique presence to the film.

Wood Harris (Creed and The Wire), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), and Chase Infiniti, a newcomer destined to make a splash, round out this exceptional cast. With Anderson at the helm as both writer and director, known for crafting instant classics like Boogie Nights, There Will Be Blood, and Phantom Thread, this untitled project has the potential to be his most ambitious and commercially appealing film to date. While the plot remains under wraps, the combination of Anderson’s visionary direction and the cast’s collective acting chops sets the stage for a cinematic event.

2 The Bride!

Release Date: October 3, 2025

Written and directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Bride! assembles a cast of exceptional talent, setting the stage for a captivating and unconventional take on the Frankenstein mythos. Jessie Buckley, who has consistently delivered powerful performances in films like Men and The Lost Daughter, takes on the title role. Christian Bale, known for his transformative roles in The Dark Knight trilogy and American Psycho, will add some interesting nuance to the movie. Peter Sarsgaard, who recently appeared in The Batman and has a track record of compelling performances, contributes his impressive acting skills to the film.

The film will also star Annette Bening, a four-time Academy Award nominee with a career spanning decades, Penélope Cruz, an Oscar winner known for her roles in Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Parallel Mothers, and Julianne Hough, best known for her work on Dancing With the Stars and her roles in films like Footloose and Safe Haven. With Gyllenhaal’s proven directorial vision, The Bride! will be a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of the Frankenstein story.

1 28 Years Later

Release Date: TBA

The casting of Ralph Fiennes, Jodie Comer, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson in 28 Years Later, the long-awaited sequel to the horror classic 28 Days Later, signals a new direction for the franchise and promises a thrilling cinematic experience. Fiennes, an Oscar nominee with captivating performances in films like Schindler’s List and The Grand Budapest Hotel, brings his undeniable talent to the project. Comer, who rose to prominence with her Emmy-winning role in Killing Eve and has since impressed in films like Free Guy and The Last Duel, contributes her versatility and star power to the ensemble.

Taylor-Johnson, who has a strong working relationship with Sony Pictures through his roles in Bullet Train and the upcoming Kraven the Hunter, adds his charismatic presence and leading man qualities to the story. With director Danny Boyle at the helm, known for his visceral storytelling and distinctive style in films like Trainspotting and Slumdog Millionaire, the combination of this talented cast and Boyle’s visionary direction sets the stage for a compelling and intense addition to the franchise.