Table of Contents
As the year concludes, a diverse selection of blockbuster films is now available for streaming, enabling audiences to enjoy cinematic experiences from home. Notably, Disney’s animated reboot of Lilo & Stitch has generated significant revenue, surpassing $1 billion globally. Additionally, Warner Bros.’ A Minecraft Movie has garnered attention with an impressive $958 million at the box office and is now accessible on both HBO Max and Prime Video. Furthermore, the animated sensation from China, Ne Zha 2, leads the year’s box office with an extraordinary $2.1 billion, establishing itself as the highest-grossing film of the year.
These blockbuster successes are accompanied by other significant films, including Zootopia 2 and Avatar: Fire and Ash, which remain in theaters and will not be available on platforms like Disney+ until the following year. A closer examination of this year’s cinematic landscape reveals that the most popular films have earned their place among viewers’ streaming options.
Critically acclaimed films available for home viewing
In addition to box office hits, audiences can also access critically acclaimed films that have made a strong impact this year. Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another has been recognized as the best film of 2025 by Variety and is currently streaming on HBO Max. Other Oscar contenders include Bugonia on Peacock, Sorry Baby on HBO Max, Frankenstein on Netflix, and Sinners on HBO Max, all available for immediate viewing.
Noteworthy films that captivated audiences
Among those acclaimed for their storytelling, 28 Years Later, directed by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, ranks as the fifth best film of 2025. Critic Peter Debruge commended its emotional depth, emphasizing its exploration of a post-pandemic world that resonates with recent experiences of COVID-19. The film serves as a platform for shared catharsis through its compelling narrative.
In the thriller genre, Steven Soderbergh’s Black Bag emerges as a gripping espionage tale, featuring a standout performance by Michael Fassbender as a spy entangled in deceit. Described as a captivating romantic thriller, the film maintains viewers’ suspense throughout.
Horror and suspense take center stage
This year has also introduced a variety of horror films that have left audiences on edge. Bring Her Back, directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, has received praise for its unsettling atmosphere and chilling performances, particularly by Sally Hawkins, who plays a menacing foster mother. This film pushes the limits of horror by exploring the psychological complexities of domestic trauma.
Innovative narratives in genre films
Another notable horror film, Dangerous Animals, features Jai Courtney as a shark-obsessed serial killer in a high-octane thriller that gained acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival. Its engaging narrative keeps viewers questioning the sanity of its premise.
On a lighter note, Friendship, a black comedy from A24, has resonated with indie film enthusiasts, grossing $16 million domestically. The film follows a socially awkward husband whose fixation on a charismatic neighbor leads to unexpected consequences, exploring themes of friendship and jealousy.
Major blockbusters making waves in 2025
In the realm of blockbusters, Brad Pitt’s racing film F1 has emerged as a significant success, grossing $631 million globally, marking a notable achievement in Pitt’s career. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the film chronicles the journey of a retired driver who mentors a rookie.
Meanwhile, the superhero genre continues to flourish with Fantastic Four: First Steps, earning $521 million worldwide and revitalizing Marvel’s critical standing. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, this film promises exciting adventures for fans. Additionally, Final Destination Bloodlines, a return to the horror genre, has made headlines with $285 million at the box office, reviving the franchise with its chilling narrative.
These blockbuster successes are accompanied by other significant films, including Zootopia 2 and Avatar: Fire and Ash, which remain in theaters and will not be available on platforms like Disney+ until the following year. A closer examination of this year’s cinematic landscape reveals that the most popular films have earned their place among viewers’ streaming options.0