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The 'Saturday Night Live' 50th anniversary special line-up includes Robert De Niro and Sabrina Carpenter. Here's how each guest is linked to the show.

A composite image showing a picture of Kim Kardashian, Robert De Niro, and Sabrina Carpenter.
Kim Kardashian, Robert De Niro, and Sabrina Carpenter are three of the many stars set to appear on the "Saturday Night Live" 50th anniversary show.

Aeon / GC Images / Dave Benett / Getty Images for Netflix / Axelle / Bauer-Griffin / FilmMagic

  • "Saturday Night Live" will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a three-hour special on February 16.
  • Sabrina Carpenter, Robert De Niro, Adam Sandler, and Kim Kardashian are among those set to appear.
  • Here's how each guest is linked to the show.

The three-hour-long, 50th-anniversary special of "Saturday Night Live" is shaping up to be a major event, featuring returning castmembers and former guest hosts like Adam Sandler and Robert De Niro.

NBC has been gearing up for the anniversary by releasing multiple documentaries about the show's history and organizing a livestream concert on February 14, featuring acts including Lady Gaga, Post Malone, and the Backstreet Boys.

The special will be the centerpiece of the celebration, airing on NBC and Peacock on February 16 from 8 to 11 p.m. E.T.

NBC has announced the guest stars for the episode, but didn't say what they will do.

Here's what to know about the guests and their history with "SNL."

Adam Driver
A still from "Saturday Night Live!" showing Julia Stiles clapping in a red formal outfit, Adam Driver wearing a denim shirt and jeans and raising both his arms up and Olivia Rodrigo wearing a black turtleneck crop top and skirt clapping in front of a crowd.
Adam Driver last appeared on "Saturday Night Live" in December 2023.

NBC / Will Heath / NBC via Getty Images

Adam Driver has hosted the show four times, and was nominated for an Emmy in 2020 for his guest appearance that year.

In 2016, Driver parodied Kylo Ren, his "Star Wars" villain, in a sketch where he pretended to be a maintenance worker to find out what his underlings thought of him.

Ayo Edebiri
Ayo Edibiri wearing a white dress and holding a Dune popcorn bucket at a winter formal party.
Ayo Edebiri hosted "Saturday Night Live" for the first time last year.

NBC / Lauren Clements / NBC via Getty Images

Ayo Edebiri hosted "SNL" for the first time in February 2024, with Jennifer Lopez as the musical guest.

The actor joked about her role in "The Bear," and one of her sketches poked fun at the "Dune" popcorn bucket.

Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny wearing shades, a black blazer and matching trousers on the "Saturday Night Live!" main stage in front of a band.
Bad Bunny pulled double duty as host and musical guest during his last appearance on "Saturday Night Live" in 2023.

Will Heath / NBC

Bad Bunny was a musical guest on the show in February 2021. Two years later, in October 2023, he hosted and was its musical guest.

Dave Chappelle
A still from "Saturday Night Live!" showing Donnell Rawlings wearing a curly black wig and sparkly tuxedo, Dave Chapelle holding a mic and wearing a formal outfit with a big fur coat on top, and GloRilla wearing a green minidress.
Dave Chappelle hosted an episode of "Saturday Night Live!" in January.

Leanne Diaz / NBC

Standup comedian Dave Chappelle has hosted "SNL" four times in just under a decade, and has won two Emmys for two separate appearances on the show.

Chappelle is known for his controversial monologues. During an episode he hosted in January, he joked about Sean "Diddy" Combs, the Los Angeles fires, and President Donald Trump's reelection.

John Mulaney
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Chappell Roan in a extravagant outfit next to John Mulaney and Ego Nwodim in more normal formal outfits.
John Mulaney hosted an episode of "Saturday Night Live" this season.

NBC / Rosalind O'Connor / NBC via Getty Images

John Mulaney started off as a writer on "SNL," working on the show from 2008 to 2013. Since his departure, he's hosted multiple times and was nominated for an Emmy for an appearance in 2019.

In 2022, Mulaney was inducted into the show's Five-Timers Club, a tradition where a host's fifth appearance is marked by them receiving a special jacket and being in a dedicated sketch.

Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian in a bright pink one-sie jumpsuit clasping her hands on the main stage of "Saturday Night Live!" in front of the band.
Kim Kardashian hosted "Saturday Night Live" in 2021.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Kim Kardashian hosted the show in October 2021. Between 2009 and 2021, cast members have also impersonated her 15 times.

Steve Martin and Martin Short
A still of "Saturday Night live" showing Martin Short as a puppet being held by Steve Martin.
Martin Short and Steve Martin have hosted "Saturday Night Live" separately and as a duo.

NBC / Rosalind O'Connor / NBC via Getty Images

In December 2022, Steve Martin and Martin Short, the "Only Murders in The Building" costars and long-term friends, hosted the show together for the first time. But they've both appeared on the show solo too.

Short was briefly an "SNL" cast member from 1984 to 1985, and he has hosted it five times since then, including this season's Christmas episode in December 2024.

Martin has hosted the show 17 times, the second-highest in the show's history.

Miley Cyrus
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Miley Cyrus wearing glasses and a grey space jumpsuit in a messy spaceship.
Miley Cyrus has hosted and been a musical guest on "Saturday Night Live" multiple times.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Miley Cyrus hosted the show three times in 2011, 2013, and 2015 — as well as performing as the musical guest in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021.

The "SNL" cast has also impersonated her nine times between 2010 and 2024.

Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney standing behind a piano, wearing a formal outfit and clasping his hands together.
Paul McCartney has been a musical guest on "Saturday Night Live!"

Chris Haston / NBC / NBCU Photo Bank

The former Beatle Paul McCartney has been the musical guest on "SNL" four times: in 1980, 1993, 2010, and 2012.

Paul Simon
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Paul Simon singing into a microphone with his arms stretched out while wearing a blue blazer and matching blue trousers.
Paul Simon has been a musical guest and host on "Satuday Night Live"

Dana Edelson / NBC / NBCU Photo Bank

Paul Simon, of Simon and Garfunkel fame, has hosted the show four times: in 1975, 1976, 1986, and 1987. He's also been the musical guest on 13 different episodes.

Pedro Pascal
Pedro Pascal wearing a purple shirt and black trousers on the main stage of "Saturday Night Live!" in front of a band.
Pedro Pascal made his "Saturday Night Live" debut in 2023.

NBC / Will Heath / NBC via Getty Images

Pedro Pascal's first appearance on "SNL" as the host in February 2023 won him an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series.

Pascal also made a cameo appearance later that year during Bad Bunny's episode, where he reprised his role as a cast member's overprotective mom.

Peyton Manning
A still of the "Weekend Update" segment of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Peyton Manning and Colin just sitting behind a desk in formal outfits.
Peyton Manning first hosted "Saturday Night Live" almost 20 years ago.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Peyton Manning, a former NFL quarterback, has hosted "SNL" once, in 2007. In 2022, Manning returned to appear on the "Weekend Update" segment to talk about his love for Netflix's "Emily in Paris."

Quinta Brunson
Quinta Brunson wearing an oversized black blazer and matching flare trousers on the main stage of "Saturday night Live!" in front of the band.
Quinta Brunson has hosted "Saturday night Live" once.

NBC / Will Heath / NBC via Getty Images

In April 2023, two years after creating and starring in "Abbott Elementary," Quinta Brunson made her hosting debut on "SNL." The anniversary special will be her second appearance on the show.

Robert De Niro
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Alec Baldwin dressed as Donald Trump and Robert De Niro dressed as Robert Mueller.
Robert De Niro has made multiple appearances on "Saturday Night Live" impersonating Robert Mueller, the former director of the FBI, for political sketches.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Robert De Niro has hosted "SNL" three times but has made several more cameos since his first appearance in 1992.

In 2019, De Niro was nominated for an Emmy for playing special counsel Robert Mueller on the show.

Sabrina Carpenter
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Sabrina Carpenter wearing a red minidress, sitting in front of a fake bar.
Sabrina Carpenter first appeared on "Saturday Night Live" last year as the musical guest.

NBC/Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Sabrina Carpenter, a Grammy winner and rising pop star, made her first appearance on "SNL" as a musical guest in May 2024, where she performed her songs "Espresso," "Feather," and "Nonsense."

Carpenter and her song "Espresso" have been referenced in other sketches, including the viral "Bridesmaid Speech" sketch from Ariana Grande's October 2024 episode.

Scarlett Johansson
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Scarlett Johansson in a fake lab while wearing scientist costume and holding a dog with a metal helmet on its head.
Scarlett Johansson, who is married to "Saturday Night Live" cast member Colin Jost, has appeared on the show multiple times.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Scarlett Johansson is married to Colin Jost, who is a resident news anchor on the show's Weekend Update segment.

The actor has hosted the series six times, and has made multiple cameos.

Johansson's last appearance was during this season's Christmas episode in December 2024.

Tom Hanks
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Tom Hanks sitting on a couch in front of a Christmas-decorated room, while wearing a robe that has a badge that says "5"
Tom Hanks made a cameo in the Christmas episode of "Saturday Night Live" in 2024.

NBC / Will Heath / NBC via Getty Images

Tom Hanks has hosted the series ten times. In 2017, he was nominated for an Emmy for his guest appearance.

Hank's last hosted when "SNL" ran a virtual version of the show in April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Woody Harrelson
A still of "Saturday Night Live!" showing Woody Harrelson in a denim shirt and jeans looking down at an animated box.
Woody Harrelson last hosted "Saturday Night Live" in 2023.

NBC / Caro Scarimbolo / NBC via Getty Images

Woody Harrelson has hosted "SNL" five times. During Harrelson's fifth hosting appearance in February 2023, he didn't get the typical Five-Timers Club induction sketch, but he did receive the robe.

Laraine Newman, Chevy Chase, Garrett Morris, and Jane Curtin
A giant heart with holes in it with Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Michael O'Donoghue, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman and Garrett Morris sticking their heads out.
(Back, left to right) Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Michael O'Donoghue, (Middle, left to right) Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman, (front) Garrett Morris in a sketch in 1975.

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Laraine Newman, Chevy Chase, Garrett Morris, and Jane Curtin were part of the first cast of "Saturday Night Live" when it premiered in 1975, as depicted in 2024's biopic "Saturday Night."

Chase, who anchored the first version of the show's Weekend Update, was on "SNL" for two seasons, winning two Emmys and being nominated for two more. He returned to host the show eight times, and made surprise appearances.

The other three stayed on until 1980, earning an Emmy nomination as a cast in 1979 for Outstanding Comedy-Variety or Music Program.

Eddie Murphy
Eddie Murphy wearing a blue suit on the main stage of "Saturday Night Live."
Eddie Murphy on the 40th anniversary special of "Saturday Night Live."

NBC / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Eddie Murphy was part of the season six cast in 1980, stepping in after the original cast, most of the writers, and the original creator, Lorne Michaels, left the show.

Murphy was nominated for three Emmys while on the show, but didn't win one until 2020, for hosting. He has hosted the show three times.

Adam Sandler and Chris Rock
A still of Chris Rock and Adam Sandler in casual outfits and holding mics on the main stage of "Saturday Night Live."
Chris Rock and Adam Sandler have cameoed while the other hosted "Saturday Night Live" in recent years.

Will Heath / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Season 16, which began in 1990, was the first season to feature Adam Sandler and Chris Rock.

Sandler received three Emmy nominations while on the cast but one more nod when he hosted the show for the first and only time in 2019.

Rock has hosted SNL four times since leaving the cast in 1993.

Molly Shannon and Will Ferrell
A still of "Saturday Night Live" showing Will Ferrell holding a dog and Molly Shannon wearing a black wig and pink nightdress.
Will Ferrell and Molly Shannon joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1995.

Mary Ellen Matthews / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Molly Shannon and Will Ferrell both joined the show in its 20th season in 1995, and stayed for seven seasons.

Both stars received Emmy nominations while on the show. Shannon has hosted the show twice since leaving, while Ferrell has hosted five times.

Tracy Morgan and Jimmy Fallon
A still of "Saturday Night Live" showing a younger Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan and Jimmy Fallon.
Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, and Jimmy Fallon on "Saturday Night Live."

Dana Edelson / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Season 22, which began in 1996, introduced Tracy Morgan and Jimmy Fallon as "SNL" cast members.

Fallon lasted seven seasons, spending the last three co-anchoring the show's Weekend Update segment. He has since hosted the show three times, winning Emmys for his appearance in 2012 and 2014.

Morgan stayed on for six seasons, returned to host twice, and was nominated for the guest actor Emmy in 2016.

Tina Fey and Maya Rudolph
A still of "Saturday Night Live" showing Tina Fey and Maya Rudolph in black outfits on the main stage.
Tina Fey and Maya Rudolph in an episode of "Saturday Night Live" in 2011.

Dana Edelson / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Image

Tina Fey originally joined SNL as a writer in 1997, but three years later, she joined the season 26 cast at the same time as Maya Rudolph.

Fey co-anchored the show's Weekend Update for the six years she was a cast member, during which time she won one out of four Emmy nominations. Fey was also nominated for an Emmy after hosting the show six times since 2008, and won the guest actor award in 2009 and 2016.

Rudolph, best known on "SNL" for her impersonations of Beyoncé, stayed on the cast for nine years. She has been nominated for four Emmys for her three guest host appearances and her appearance in 2020 as Kamala Harris. She won the guest actor award in 2020 and 2021.

Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers
A still of "Saturday Night Live" Weekend Update segment showing Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers in formal outfits.
Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers on the Weekend Update.

Dana Edelson / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers joined the show in 2001, with Meyers lasting 13 seasons to become the third longest-running cast member of all time.

Poehler stayed for eight seasons, co-anchored the Weekend Update from 2004-2005, and was nominated for two Emmys during her tenure. Since leaving, Poehler has hosted the series twice and won an Emmy as a guest actor when she co-hosted the show with Fey in 2016.

Meyers anchored the show's Weekend Update from 2006 to 2014, was a writer for the series, and nominated for 11 Emmys for his contribution to the show, winning once. He has hosted "SNL" once.

Fred Armisen and Will Forte
A still of "Saturday Night Live" Weekend Update showing Will Forte and Fred Armisen in suits.
Will Forte and Fred Armisen on "Saturday Night Live" in 2003.

Mary Ellen Matthews / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Fred Armisen and Will Forte joined the cast in season 28, which premiered in 2002.

Forte stayed on for eight seasons, returning to host in 2022.

Armisen was a cast member for 11 seasons. He hosted in 2016 and received an Emmy nomination for outstanding writing alongside the episode's writers.

Andy Samberg, Kristen Wiig, and Jason Sudeikis
A still of "Saturday Night Live" showing Kristen Wiig, Jason Sudeikis, Andy Samberg and Bill Hader in formal outfits at a bar.
Kristen Wiig, Jason Sudeikis, and Andy Samberg on "Saturday Night Live" in 2012.

Dana Edelson / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Andy Samberg, Kristen Wiig, and Jason Sudeikis joined "SNL" in season 31, which debuted in 2005.

Samberg and Wiig stayed for seven seasons, and Sudeikis for nine. Each made several cameo appearances after leaving.

Wiig has hosted five times, been nominated for four Emmys as a cast member, and nominated as a host an additional four times.

Samberg and Sudeikis have each hosted the show once. Samberg has been nominated six times for comedy songs he cowrote for the show, winning once for "Dick In A Box."

Kate McKinnon and Pete Davidson
A still of "Saturday Night Live" showing Chloe Fineman dressed as Britney Spears, Pete Davidson dressed as Matt Gaetz, and Kate McKinnon dressed as Pepé Le Pew on a talk show.
Pete Davidson and Kate McKinnon left "Saturday Night Live" in 2022.

Will Heath / NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Pete Davidson and Kate McKinnon left SNL in 2022, and they have each returned to host the show once since leaving.

During her 11 seasons on the show, McKinnon was a standout cast member, gaining nine nominations in a row as best supporting actress in a comedy series. She won the award in 2016 and 2017.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Here are 38 movie sequels and spinoffs coming to theaters and on streamers in 2025

A composite of stills showing Tom Cruise in "Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning," Cynthia Erivo with green skin in "Wicked," and an Na'vi alien in "Avatar: The Way of the Water."
"Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning" and the sequels to "Wicked" and "Avatar: The Way of the Water" are among the blockbusters coming in 2025.

Paramount Pictures / Universal Pictures / 20th Century Studios

  • Almost 40 sequel and spin-off movies are set to be released this year.
  • "Mission Impossible," "Wicked," and "Jurassic Park" are getting sequels in 2025.
  • Here are the release dates, casts, and other important details of the upcoming sequels.

From "Mission Impossible - The Final Reckoning" to "Wicked: For Good," some of the most anticipated movies of 2025 are sequels.

Last year, "Wicked" was the only non-sequel in the top 10 highest-grossing movies.

So far this year, three sequels have been released in theaters and on streamers including the Oscar nominee "Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl."

Here's what to know about the 38 other sequels and spin-offs coming out in 2025.

"Dog Man"
A still from "Dog Man" showing an animated dog in a cop outfit.
"Dog Man" premieres January 31.

Universal Pictures / DreamWorks Animation

Release date: January 31, in theaters

"Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie," based on Dave Pilkey's "Captain Underpants" books, grossed $125 million on a $38 million budget. It was followed by a four-season Netflix series based on the same characters.

"Dog Man" is the second film in the franchise. It's a story in a story set in a book written by the "Captain Underpants" protagonists George and Harold.

In the new film, Dog Man is a mute, crime-fighting, dog-human hybrid cop. Pete Davidson voices Petey, Dog Man's nemesis, and Ricky Gervais, Lil Rel Howery, and Isla Fisher also voice characters in the movie.

"Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy"
A still from "Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy" featuring Renée Zellweger and Leo Woodall sitting together on chairs. Renée Zellweger is resting her head on Leo Woodall's shoulder.
Renée Zellweger has a new love interest, played by Leo Woodall, in "Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy."

Universal Pictures / Jay Maidment / Universal Pictures

Release date: February 13, on Peacock

The "Bridget Jones" movie franchise, based on Helen Fielding's best-selling novels, has made $811 million at the box office worldwide.

But the fourth film, based on Fielding's third novel "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy," will premiere exclusively on Peacock in the US rather than in theaters. Internationally, it will be in theaters.

"Mad About the Boy" is set years after Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) dies, leaving Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) to raise their two children while juggling a writing career and dating again.

The film's original stars Zellweger and Hugh Grant return alongside two new actors: Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall, who play Bridget's new love interests.

"Captain America: Brave New World"
Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Captain America in "Captain America: Brave New World." He's dressed in the Captain America suit and red glasses and holding a shield with a star at the center.
Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Captain America in "Captain America: Brave New World."

Eli Adé/Marvel Studios

Release date: February 14, in theaters

"Captain America: Brave New World" is the first Marvel movie to be released in 2025. It follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he unravels a shady conspiracy against President Ross (Harrison Ford).

It's the fourth "Captain America" movie, but the first where Mackie's hero carries the iconic shield, after Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) passed on the Captain America mantle at the end of "Avengers: Endgame."

The "Captain America" franchise has earned Marvel Studios over $2 billion in ticket sales. But "superhero fatigue" and a lack of hype could lead to a muted debut for the fourth movie.

"Paddington in Peru"
Paddington in red cap and blue coat
Paddington heads back to the homeland in "Paddington in Peru."

Sony

Release date: February 14, in theaters

For lovable bear's third adventure, he journeys back to his homeland to find his Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton), who goes missing from the Home for Retired Bears.

The first two "Paddington" movies are widely regarded as some of the best British movies made in recent years: The first film holds a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while its 2017 sequel is rated 99%.

"The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie"
Daffy Duck and Brendan Fraser in a still from "Looney Tunes: Back in Action."
Daffy Duck and Brendan Fraser in "Looney Tunes: Back in Action."

Warner Bros.

Release date: February 28, in theaters

Warner Bros.' Looney Tunes movies have a patchy record. "Space Jam" was a hit, grossing $230 million on a $80 million budget, but 2021's "Space Jam: A New Legacy" barely earned back its $150 million budget, and 2003's "Looney Tunes: Back in Action" didn't turn a profit.

With Warner Bros. making the controversial move to shelve "Coyote vs. Acme" as a tax write-off in 2023, "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie" must prove the franchise is still relevant.

It's the first-ever fully animated "Looney Tunes" feature film, following Porky Pig and Daffy Duck as they team up to save the world from alien invaders.

Both characters will be voiced by Eric Bauza, who has won two Daytime Emmys for playing Looney Tunes characters.

"Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip"
Eva Longoria in a white top smiling and waving
Eva Longoria stars in "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip."

James Devaney/GC Images/Getty

Release date: March 28, on Disney+

"Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip" premieres exclusively on Disney+ and is the sequel to 2014's "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day."

The first film, based on a novel of the same name, starred Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner, but the sequel has recast the lead family.

Jesse Garcia, Thom Nemer, Eva Longoria, Paulina Chavez, and Rose Portillo star as the Garcia family, who are on a trip to explore their Mexican roots, which goes wrong due to a curse.

"The Accountant 2"
A man with short dark hair is laying on the ground aiming a sniper rifle. He's wearing a brown jacket and protective headphone. There is other equipment including a tripod on the ground on his right.
Ben Affleck in "The Accountant."

Warner Bros. Pictures

Release date: April 25, in theaters

In the original 2016 film, Ben Affleck played Christian Wolff, who both fixes fraudulent accounts for criminal organizations and is highly skilled martial artist and marksman.

In "The Accountant 2," Wolff is forced to work with his estranged brother, Braxton (Jon Bernthal).

The first film grossed $155 million against its $44 million budget, so "The Accountant 2" has the potential to be another surprise hit.

"Thunderbolts*"
A still of "Thunderbolts*" showing people in superhero suits looking up at the sky.
Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Wyatt Russell as John Walker, and David Harbour as Red Guardian in "Thunderbolts*."

Marvel Studios

Release date: May 2, in theaters

After "Captain America: Brave New World" comes a new Marvel superhero team, the Thunderbolts.

In the comics, the team is made up of villains masquerading as heroes and is comparable to "The Suicide Squad." However, the team in "Thunderbolts*" comprises assassins and mercenaries who are forced to collaborate after being sent a mission that turns out to be a dangerous trap.

This is the first movie featuring these characters as a group, but many have appeared as sidekicks and antagonists in previous Marvel films, including Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) and Red Guardian (David Harbour) from the "Black Widow" movie.

"Final Destination: Bloodlines"
A group of people sat on an airplane are all turned and staring at one man who is starting to stand up out of his seat. He has a shocked look on his face.
Devon Sawa as Alex Browning in "Final Destination."

New Line Cinema

Release date: May 16, in theaters

The "Final Destination" franchise is coming back to the big screen over a decade after the fifth movie was released in 2011. "Final Destination: Bloodlines" will be released on the 25th anniversary of the original film's release in 2000.

The plot is unclear, but if it follows the set-up of the previous films, a group of people who try to cheat death will wind up dying in grisly accidents.

Introducing the film to a new generation is a smart move for New Line Cinema, as the franchise has grossed $657 million at the box office.

"Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning"
Tom Cruise in a t-shirt
Tom Cruise in "Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning."

Paramount Pictures

Release date: May 23, in theaters

"Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning" is the second half of the story that started in 2023's "Dead Reckoning," about a dangerous AI program that threatens the world.

Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team at the Impossible Mission Force attempt to shut it down for good.

The franchise is known for Cruise's death-defying stunts, and he'll take on even more challenges in the sequel — like hanging from a biplane midair and a deep sea dive.

But it remains to be seen whether the star can top his previous adrenaline-fueled stunt, where he rode a motorbike off a mountain.

"Karate Kid: Legends"
A still of "Karate Kid: Legends" showing Jackie Chan, Ben Wang and Ralph Macchio.
Jackie Chan (L) and Ralph Macchio (R) return to the "Karate Kid" universe in "Legends," while Ben Wang (M) makes his debut.

Jonathan Wenk

Release date: May 30, in theaters

"Karate Kid" is one of the most famous and commercially successful martial arts franchises of all time. It's made up of two Oscar-nominated films, two sequels, a hit remake in 2010, and the spin-off Netflix series "Cobra Kai," which has been nominated for nine Emmys.

Variety reported in November 2024 that "Karate Kid: Legends" will take place three years after the "Cobra Kai" season finale, which premieres on February 13, 2025.

The film will star Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso — the original protagonist of the first three "Karate Kid" movies and a lead character in "Cobra Kai" — and Jackie Chan as Mr. Han, the mentor figure in the 2010 remake movie.

Daniel and Mr. Han will team up to teach a new karate prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang). The film also stars Ming-na Wen and Joshua Jackson.

"Ballerina"
Ana de Armas in a coat
Ana de Armas in "Ballerina."

Lionsgate

Release date: June 6, in theaters

"John Wick: Chapter 4" might have been billed as the final out of Keanu Reeves' assassin, but Lionsgate hasn't ended the franchise just yet.

The studio is clearly keen to keep the "John Wick" brand alive since the first four movies made over $1 billion in ticket sales.

Ana De Armas leads "Ballerina," a spin-off set between "John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum" and "Chapter 4." She plays one of the dancer-assassins of the Ruska-Roma organization, who takes revenge for her father's murder.

"28 Years Later"
A man and a boy running away from other people behind them in a woodland area. Behind them is a wall made out of stones. On the left, the man has long brown hair and a long brown beard. He's wearing a burgundy coat with a quiver of arrows strapped to his back. He's holding a bow. On the right, the young boy wears a black green coat and has a white quiver on his back with strap across his chest. He's also holding a bow.
Aaron Taylor Johnson and Alfie Williams in "28 Years Later."

Sony Pictures Releasing

Release date: June 20, in theaters

In 2002, director Danny Boyle delivered an exhilirating reimagining of the zombie apocalypse for the 21st century with "28 Days Later." Now, the infected are back.

"28 Years Later" follows a group of survivors on a small British island who venture onto the mainland, only to find that the virus still has the country in its grip.

The sequel, the start of a new trilogy and the third film in the franchise, will be released on June 20.

The next film, "28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple," has already been shot and is set for release in 2026.

"M3GAN 2.0"
A robot doll with long blond hair and pale blue eyes. She's wearing a blue coat.
M3GAN in "M3GAN 2.0."

Geoffrey Short/Universal Pictures

Release date: June 27, in theaters

2023's "M3GAN" was a win for Universal Pictures, grossing $180 million on a $12 million budget and spawning a new horror franchise.

The film also birthed a new cultural icon, M3GAN, a killer AI robot doll. Fans became obsessed with her after the first trailer was released, loving her stylish outfits, witty retorts, and even clips of her chilling, swaying dance moves went viral.

In the first film, Gemma (Alison Williams), a roboticist, builds M3GAN to help her bond with Cady (Violet McGraw), her 8-year-old niece whose parents died in a crash. But the doll turns violent and starts murdering people to protect Cady. The film ends with Gemma and Cady killing M3GAN.

The plot of the sequel is under wraps, but will star Williams and McGraw, along with newcomers Jemaine Clement, Ivanna Sakhno, Timm Sharp, and Aristotle Athari.

"Jurassic World: Rebirth"
A man and a woman stood in a field filled with tall plants. On the left, the man with short dark hair and a short dark beard is wearing silver glasses. He is wearing a brown checked shirt and a tan vest. The woman has blond hair tied back into a ponytail. She has a scarf around her neck and a gray backpack strap over her shoulder. The rest of her outfit is obscured by the tall plants.
Jonathan Bailey and Scarlett Johansson in "Jurassic World Rebirth."

Universal Pictures

Release date: July 2, in theaters

Since launching in 1993, the "Jurassic Park" franchise has grossed $6 billion at the box office, so it's not surprising Universal Pictures wants to keep the dinosaur chaos alive.

Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey will lead "Jurassic World: Rebirth," which will be released three years after the last "Jurassic World" film.

The film, directed by Gareth Edwards, follows Zora Bennett (Johansson), a covert operative tasked with retrieving genetic material from several dinosaurs as part of research for a life-saving drug.

Entertainment Weekly reported that the mission goes awry when Bennett's operation crosses paths with a family stranded on an island, and the group discovers a "sinister, shocking discovery that's been hidden from the world for decades."

Untitled sequel to "I Know What You Did Last Summer"
i know what you did last summer
Sarah Michelle Gellar, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Ryan Phillippe starred in the first "I Know What You Did Last Summer" movie.

Columbia Pictures

Release date: July 18, in theaters

The teen slasher movie "I Know What You Did Last Summer" made $125 million at the box office after it was released in 1997.

It saw a serial killer stalk a group of teens after they covered up a car crash, and was the breakout role for Sarah Michelle Gellar, Freddie Prince Jr., Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Ryan Phillippe.

But the sequels did not perform as well, and the Amazon Prime's 2021 spin-off TV series was canceled after one season.

For the 2025 revival, Hewitt and Prince Jr. reprise their roles, and up-and-coming actors Chase Sui Wonders, Madelyn Cline, Lola Tung, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, and Jonah Haur-King will also star.

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps"
Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Pedro Pascal, and Vanessa Kirby stand next to each other at San Diego Comic Con in July 2024.
"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" cast Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Pedro Pascal, and Vanessa Kirby will appear in "Avengers: Doomsday."

Gilbert Flores / Variety via Getty Images

Release date: July 25, in theaters

Marvel's First Family are making their debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," with Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as the Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as The Thing.

Plot details are under wraps, but the cast includes Ralph Ineson as the colossal cosmic villain, Galactus, and Julia Garner as his herald, the Silver Surfer.

The team's MCU debut is a big deal because Fox previously owned the franchise, so the Fantastic Four couldn't appear alongside the Avengers until now.

"The Naked Gun"
the naked gun
Leslie Nielsen was the original star of "The Naked Gun," but Liam Neeson will lead the 2025 movie.

Paramount Pictures

Release date: August 1, in theaters

The 1982 TV series "Police Squad!" was canceled after six episodes, so its creators took the premise and lead actor Leslie Nielsen, and created "The Naked Gun" film franchise.

The three movies were a spoof of police procedurals, focused on the adventures of Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen), a kind-hearted but dumb cop.

This time, Liam Neeson will star as Frank Drebin, though it hasn't been confirmed whether he plays the same character. Pamela Andersen, Paul Walter Hauser, and Kevin Durand will be Neeson's costars.

Akiva Schaffer, a member of the comedy music group Lonely Island, will direct the film.

"The Bad Guys 2"
A still from "The Bad Guys" showing an anthropomorphic animated wolf wearing a suit and smiling.
Sam Rockwell stars as Mr. Wolf in "The Bad Guys" and the new sequel.

DreamWorks Animation LLC

Release date: August 1, in theaters

2022's animated heist film "The Bad Guys," based on a children's book of the same name, was a moderate success for Universal and Dreamworks, grossing $250 million and gaining a Rotten Tomatoes critic score of 88%.

The first film is about a gang of reformed bank-robbing animals. In the upcoming sequel, a crew of female animals forces them do one last job.

Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Awkwafina, Anthony Ramos, and Craig Robinson reprise their roles as Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake., Ms. Tarantula, Mr. Piranha, and Mr. Shark, respectively. Natasha Lyonne, Danielle Brooks, and Maria Bakalova join the cast as the new crew.

"Freakier Friday"
Jamie Lee Curtis in a black suit side-hugging and Lindsay Lohan in a white and black dress.
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan attend D23 in August 2024 to promote "Freakier Friday."

Rodin Eckenroth / Getty Images for Disney

Release date: August 8, in theaters

There have been three versions of the mother-daughter body-swap movie "Freaky Friday."

Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan starred as mother and daughter Tess and Anna Coleman in the most popular version, which premiered in 2003 and grossed $160 million against a $20 million budget.

"Freakier Friday," the first sequel in the franchise stars Lohan, Curtis, and other cast members from the 2003 film and sees Anna as a mother, learning how to parent her daughter and soon-to-be stepdaughter.

Manny Jacinto and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan are also joining the franchise in the sequel.

"Nobody 2"
Bob Odenkirk in 2020.
Bob Odenkirk in 2020.

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

Release date: August 15, in theaters

The "Nobody" franchise is the family man's answer to "John Wick."

In the first film, Bob Odenkirk plays a former assassin who comes out of retirement to defend his home when a crime lord targets him and his family.

The film received positive reviews but was released in 2021, while Hollywood was recovering from the pandemic, and it made $57 million in ticket sales.

"Nobody 2" dives into the assassin and his wife's history, and will hopefully perform better.

"Thread: An Insidious Tale"
The Lipstick-Face Demon in "Insidious: The Red Door."
The Lipstick-Face Demon in "Insidious: The Red Door."

Warner Bros. Pictures

Release date: August 29, in theaters

James Wan's "Insidious" franchise is getting a new spinoff from "Moon Knight" head writer Jeremy Slater, starring Kumail Nanjiani and Mandy Moore.

Warner Bros. hasn't confirmed the synopsis for "Thread." But in May 2023, Deadline reported that it follows a couple, played by Nanjiani and Moore, who use magic to stop their daughter from dying but face deadly consequences. It's unclear how it will connect to the previous films.

The franchise explores what happens when people mess with alternate dimensions and demonic forces, so adding time travel to the mix will be interesting.

The "Insidious" movies have generated $730 million in ticket sales.

"The Conjuring: Last Rites"
the conjuring movie
Vera Farmiga in "The Conjuring."

New Line Cinema

Release date: September 5, in theaters

Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema have been terrifying audiences since 2013 with "The Conjuring" franchise, and it's all coming to an end with the ninth film, "The Conjuring: Last Rites."

Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga will reprise their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren, the real-life paranormal investigators who wrote various books about cases they investigated.

In September 2023, director Michael Chaves told Slash Film: "I know that there is a great finale being planned for 'Last Rites' and as to what or who's in it ... I don't want to give away any spoilers."

"Downton Abbey 3"
downton abbey movie focus features
Hugh Bonneville and Michelle Dockery in the first "Downton Abbey" movie.

Focus Features

Release date: September 12, in theaters

The British period drama "Downton Abbey" ended in 2015, but its creator, Julian Fellowes, has produce multiple sequel films.

The first "Downton Abbey" film in 2019 grossed $194 million, but the second, which was released in 2022 when theaters were recovering from the pandemic, made $92 million.

The plot is under wraps, but stars from previous films, such as Dominic West, Hugh Bonneville, and Michelle Dockery, will be reprising their roles. Paul Giamatti will also return as Harold Levinson, who was mentioned throughout the series but only appeared once during the "Downton Abbey" Christmas special in 2013.

"Saw XI"
Shawnee Smith as Amanda Young in "Saw" and Billy the Puppet.
Shawnee Smith as Amanda Young in "Saw" and Billy the Puppet.

Lionsgate Films

Release date: September 26, in theaters

The "Saw" franchise has been spilling blood and guts across the big screen for over 20 years, and Lionsgate is showing no signs of giving up the franchise, even though Jigsaw (Tobin Bell) has technically been dead since the end of "Saw III."

The franchise has produced 10 movies, including the spinoff Spiral, and has grossed $1.147 billion worldwide.

"Tron: Ares"
A man wearing black body armor facing away from the camera. The suit is detailed in red neon lines. There is a triangular design on his back. He is wearing a full faced helmet and is looking to the left. There is smoke surrounding him and a red neon industrial background that is blurry.
Jared Leto as Ares in "Tron: Ares."

Leah Gallo/Disney

Premiere date: October 10, in theaters

In 1982, Disney plunged audiences into the world of the video game in "Tron," which became a cult hit.

28 years later, Joseph Kosinski directed the sequel, "Tron: Legacy," which also garnered a cult following with its neon aesthetic and a pulse-pounding score from Daft Punk.

Now, a third film is heading to theaters. "Tron: Ares" will merge the real world with the Grid, although specific plot details are being kept under wraps.

Directed by Joachim Rønning, "Ares" stars Jared Leto, Evan Peters, Jeff Bridges, Cameron Monaghan, and Sarah Desjardins.

This time, it will feature a score from industrial rockers Nine Inch Nails. Band members Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross previously scored movies and TV shows, including "The Social Network," "Watchmen," and "Challengers."

"The Black Phone 2"
Ethan Hawke in a mask
Ethan Hawke in "The Black Phone."

Universal

Release date: October 17, in theaters

Scott Derrickson's "The Black Phone" was one of the surprise horror hits of 2021, grossing $161 million worldwide.

The film follows Finney (Mason Thames), who gets kidnapped by a serial killer called "the Grabber" (Ethan Hawke). While he's held captive in a basement, the ghosts of the Grabber's victims help him to escape.

It's unclear where the story will go in Derrickson's "The Black Phone 2," but both Thames and Hawke will reprise their roles.

"Mortal Kombat 2"
A hooded ninja dressed in gold and black armor. He has a gold facemask covering the entire lower half of his face. There is blue frost across part of the mask on the right. He is holding a sword above his head, and appears to be holding a chain that extends from his wrist.
Hiroyuki Sanada as Scorpion in "Mortal Kombat."

Warner Bros. Pictures

Release date: October 24, in theaters

In the last decade, numerous projects have proved video game adaptations can work if done correctly.

2021's "Mortal Kombat" was moderately successful, grossing $84 million against a $55 million budget — which is an impressive feat since it was released in theaters and HBO Max simultaneously as a result of the pandemic.

The franchise revolves around a brutal, interdimensional tournament between fighters from Earth and a place called Outworld. It mainly follows Cole Young (Lewis Tan), an MMA fighter who gets pulled into the competition.

"Predator: Badlands"
A still from "Prey" showing a Predator alien.
Dan Trachtenberg, who directed "Prey," is making another "Predator: Badlands."

David Bukach / 20th Century Studios

Release date: November 7, in theaters

In 2022, 20th Century Studios released "Prey," a stand-alone "Predator" movie that follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a Comanche warrior who defends her tribe from one of the titular aliens.

The film's success spotlighted the audience's desire to see more singular stories in the franchise, and "Predator: Badlands" will do just that.

Empire Magazine reported the story is "a future-set tale taking place on an alien planet," with the alien hunter as the hero. It also features "A Complete Unknown" star Elle Fanning in multiple roles.

"Now You See Me 3"
Now You See Me 2 Lionsgate
Dave Franco, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Eisenberg, and Woody Harrelson in "Now You See Me 2."

Lionsgate

Release date: November 14, in theaters

It's a crime that the third film isn't titled "Now You 3 Me," but at least fans of the previous crime-thrillers will finally get a sequel after almost a decade.

It features all the cast members from the first two movies, and adds Rosamund Pike, Ariana Greenblatt, and Justice Smith in undisclosed roles.

"Wicked: For Good"
cynthia erivo and ariana grande as elphaba and glinda in wicked. erivo is painted green and wearing a black dress and hat, while grande has blonde hair and is wearing a pink dress
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in "Wicked."

Universal Pictures

Release date: November 21, in theaters

"Wicked," an adaptation of the biggest Broadway musical, was one of the most successful blockbusters of 2024. It broke multiple records, was the fifth highest-grossing movie of the year, made $717 million in ticket sales, and received 10 Oscar nominations.

The sequel "Wicked: For Good" was shot at the same time as the first film, so Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum are reprising their roles.

"Zootopia 2"
A cartoon fox and rabbit in Zootopia. The fox is wearing a shirt and tie, and the rabbit is in police uniform.
A still from "Zootopia"

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Release date: November 26, in theaters

"Zootopia," an animated buddy cop movie set in a world of anthropomorphic animals, was the fourth highest-grossing movie of 2016, earning over a billion dollars in ticket sales, and won the Oscar for best-animated film.

The sequel will bring back the lead characters — Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), a bunny cop with a heart of gold, and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), Judy's sly fox ally.

"Five Nights at Freddy's 2"
A still from "Five Nights at Freddy's" showing Josh Hutcherson and Piper Rubio hugging each other.
Josh Hutcherson and Piper Rubio are reprising their roles from "Five Nights at Freddy's" in the sequel.

Patti Perret / Universal Pictures

Release date: December, 5 in theaters

"Five Nights At Freddy's," a survival viral videogame series about ghost-possessed animatronics that began in 2014, received a horror movie adaptation in 2023.

It was a reasonable success for Universal, grossing $291 million, and now the franchise is continuing on the big screen.

Josh Hutcherson, Matthew Lillard, Piper Rubio, and Elizabeth Lail will reprise their roles in the sequel. The film will likely include the return of the scary animatronics and the serial killer William Afton (Lillard).

"The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants"
Spongebob squarepants
"Spongebob Squarepants" debuted in 1999, and is on its 15th season.

Viacom

Release date: December 19, in theaters

"Spongebob Squarepants" is one of Paramount's biggest children brands, running for 15 seasons over the last 26 years. There are also three theatrical movies and a Tony-winning Broadway show.

The last "Spongebob" movie flopped after it was released in 2020 during the pandemic, but the three films have grossed $471 million in total.

"The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants," the fourth film, will star Mark Hamill as the Flying Dutchman, a recurring pirate ghost from the series.

"Avatar: Fire and Ash"
Painting of "Avatar: Fire and Ash" shows aliens and alien ships on an alien planet.
Concept art for "Avatar: Fire and Ash."

20th Century Studios

Release date: December 19, in theaters

"Avatar" and "Avatar: The Way of the Water" are the first and third highest-grossing movies of all time, with total ticket sales of $5.2 billion, so it would be a surprise if the third film is not a box office hit.

It will star Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, and other actors from the previous two films, but the synopsis has not yet been revealed.

So far, the sci-fi series has centered on a planet called Pandora which humans are attempting to colonize, sparking a war with the Na'vi native aliens.

James Cameron told Empire in January that the new film will introduce audiences to two new Na'vi groups, wind traders and the Ash clan.

"Return of the Living Dead"
A black figure drags a Christmas tree through a snowy graveyard.
Tarman the zombie in the "Return of the Living Dead" teaser trailer.

WithAnO Productions/YouTube

Release date: December 25, in theaters

The "Return of the Living Dead" franchise features some of the grossest zombies to stumble across the big screen. In the plot, a chemical called Trioxin reanimates corpses in a graveyard, leading the zombies to rampage.

The 2025 sequel is called "Return of the Living Dead," which doesn't acknowledge that it will be the sixth movie in the franchise.

Director Steve Wolsh told Bloody Disgusting that it is set in 1985 and added: "Audiences can expect to be welcomed back into the dark humored, sexy, edgy, Trioxin fueled world horror fans first encountered in 1985."

"Happy Gilmore 2"
Adam Sandler in a blue suit
Adam Sandler.

Oliver Contreras/AFP/Getty

Release date: Unconfirmed

Since 2014, Adam Sandler has partnered with Netflix to produce multiple comedy movies that have been big hits, such as "Murder Mystery."

His next Netflix film is a sequel to the 1996 movie "Happy Gilmore," about a hockey player who competes in a golf tournament to win money to save his grandmother's house from the IRS.

Sandler will reprise his role as the lead character, Happy Gilmore. Julie Bowen and Christopher McDonald will also return.

Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican rapper and singer, will star in the movie as a newcomer to the franchise.

"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery"
A black and white photo of Daniel Craig in a suit.
Daniel Craig reprises his role as Benoit Blanc in "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery."

Rian Johnson

Release date: Fall 2025

Rian Johnson, the director and writer behind 2017's "Star Wars," went on to make his own show: the neo-noir mystery series "Knives Out."

The first film premiered in 2019, grossed $312 million, was nominated for an Oscar, and cemented Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) as an iconic character.

Netflix then swooped in, paying for exclusive rights to the next two films. Multiple outlets reported that Netflix paid over $400 million, but this has not been confirmed.

"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" is the third film in the series and the second exclusive to Netflix. Craig reprises his role as Blanc alongside Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Kerry Washington, Jeremy Renner, and more.

Read the original article on Business Insider

The new 'Superman' trailer gives a first look at David Corenswet's new Man of Steel. Here's who's in the cast.

An image showing a man flying in a blue and red superhero costume. It is mainly light blue with a red cape. On his chest is a red and yellow "S" symbol. He has red trunks on with a yellow belt.
David Corenswet on the poster for "Superman."

Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

  • The first trailer for James Gunn's "Superman" gives a first look at David Corenswet's hero.
  • It also introduces a handful of other heroes, villains, and monsters.
  • Here is the cast of the new DC movie and who they play.

It's been over a decade since audiences last saw a solo "Superman" movie in theaters, but director James Gunn has finally revealed the first trailer for his new DC reboot.

The film stars "Twisters" actor David Corenswet as the new version of the Man of Steel, as he takes over the role from Henry Cavill. The trailer starts with Superman crashing down in the snow before calling his dog, Krypto, for help.

It then introduces audiences to the new iteration of the DC Universe as Clark Kent balances his life as a young reporter at the Daily Planet and as a superhero. It puts some of the focus on his relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) a fellow reporter, as well as Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), a nefarious tech billionaire.

The action also sees Superman fighting a huge monster and a mysterious black-suited figure. Take a look below.

David Corenswet plays the new Superman, taking the mantle from Henry Cavill.
A composite image of two photos of the same man. On the left, he is dressed in a gray suit with a black tie, he's wearing glasses and has messy black hair. On the right he's dressed in a blue superhero outfit with a red cape. There is a symbol on his chest that is dirty from a fight. He has slicked back black hair and with a fringe curl. He also has a dirty face.
David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Superman.

Warner Bros Pictures/DC Studios

Corenswet is known for his roles in "Pearl," "The Politician" and "Look Both Ways." He also starred in 2024's "Twisters" alongside Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones. 

He told the "Manly Things (Sort Of)" podcast that he bulked up significantly for the role.

Corenswet said: "Getting to bulk up for 'Superman' was... I was looking for an excuse to really throw on some weight. I thought 210 was going to make me happy, but then I got up to 238... I wasn't 238 when we started shooting. 238 was my max." 

He added: "It didn't feel great... I did it so quickly that my body just hadn't adjusted to the extra weight... But that was at the peak of my bulk, and then I slowly lost weight before we started shooting. 

"I started shooting at about 228. I put on one of those sweatshirts, and I was like an XL or double XL, and I was like, 'I fill this out. This is amazing.' I didn't fit into any of my pants."

Rachel Brosnahan joins Corenswet as Lois Lane, Superman's love interest and colleague.
A woman with shoulder-length black hair in a white top and a black waistcoat. She's holding a newspaper and a white coffee mug.
Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane in "Superman."

Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane, a determined reporter at the Daily Planet and the love interest of Superman/Kent. 

The actor is known for her roles in "House of Cards" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," she reportedly beat actors like "Sex Education" star Emma Mackey, "Bridgerton" lead Phoebe Dynevor, and "Ready or Not" actor Samara Weaving to the role.

In February, Brosnahan told Variety what drew her to the role, saying: "I have always loved Lois Lane. She's smart, ambitious, and can be funny. She knows she's the smartest person in the room more often than not."

Nicholas Hoult is on villain duties as Lex Luthor.
A composite image of a man. On the left he's wearing an all brown suit and has brown hair. On the left, h's dressed in a black suit and a white shirt, he is completely bald and he's holding a silver gun.
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor in "Superman."

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images/Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

British star Nicholas Hoult originally auditioned to play Superman in the film, but Gunn decided to cast him as the hero's archnemesis, Lex Luthor, instead. 

Hoult told The Hollywood Reporter that he enjoyed working with Gunn on getting Luthor right.

He said: "I was like, 'Oh, this is exciting where he imagines this character being, and hopefully I can bring the energy that he wants to what he's written on the page.' Yeah, you do want him to be imposing and dangerous. That's something about that character. Whenever you're playing the villain, I suppose you want people to feel that they are dangerous."

Nathan Fillion plays Guy Gardner, one of the many Green Lantern superheroes in DC comics.
A composite image of the same man. On the left he is wearing a gray suit with a black shirt, he has long dark hair. On the right he has blond hair that his cut with a straight fringe. He's wearing a black leather jacket.
Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner in "Superman."

Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP/Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

Nathan Fillion voiced the Hal Jordan Green Lantern in several animated movies and starred in "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" and "The Suicide Squad."

In "Superman," he's playing Guy Gardner, a hot-headed member of the Green Lantern Corps.

Isabela Merced plays another superhero called Hawkgirl.
A composite image. On the left is a woman with tied back brown hair and a braided fringe. She's wearing a purple glittery outfit. On the right is a woman in a white and black leather outfit, with a gold and black helmet on. She is flying through the sky with wings that stem from her back, she is also carrying a large metal mace.
Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl in "Superman."

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images/Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

Isabela Merced is playing Hawkgirl, a hero with a complicated backstory involving reincarnation. She also appeared in the Sony Marvel movie "Madame Web" as another superhero, Anya Corazon, and had a very gross role in "Alien: Romulus."

Edi Gathegi plays Mr. Terrific, whose intelligence is said to rival Batman's.
A composite image of a Black man. On the right he's wearing a gray suit with a black shirt. On the right he's weaing a black and red leather jacket, there is a black mask across his face in a "T" shape.
Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific in "Superman."

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images/Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

Edi Gathegi is playing Mr. Terrific, a tech genius who uses his inventions to fight injustice. The actor has also played a superhero before — Darwin in "X-Men: First Class."

Anthony Carrigan plays another new DC hero named Metamorpho.
Anthony Carrigan plays another new DC hero called Metamorpho
Anthony Carrigan and his counterpart, Matamorpho.

John Shearer / Getty Images / DC Universe Infinite

Carrigan can briefly be seen as Metamorpho toward the end of the trailer — although he's easily mistaken for another character, Brainiac, due to the alien-like design of his face.

But it is definitely Metamorpho due to his purple crystal shoulder that can be seen on the right of the screen.

—Jorge (@djodjeee_) December 19, 2024

The character is typically a hero in the comics, but this ominous shot might suggest he has a villainous role to play in the film.

Carrigan is best known for his role in "Barry" but he has played two supervillains in DC shows "Gotham" and "The Flash."

Krypto the Superdog as himself.
A small white fluffy dog with a cape barking at a superhero in a red and blue outfit lying in the snow.
Krypto the Superdog in "Superman."

Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios

James Gunn previously told fans on Instagram that his version of the character was inspired by his rescue dog, Ozu.

He wrote: "Gosh, how difficult would life be if Ozu had superpowers?" - and thus Krypto came into the script & changed the shape of the story as Ozu was changing my life."

Read the original article on Business Insider

The 'Wicked' movie only covers part of the musical. Here's everything we know about the second film.

A still from "Wicked" showing Cynthia Erivo wearing green makeup and black witch clothing and Ariana Grande wearing a pink dress.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda in "Wicked."

Giles Keyte / Universal Pictures

  • The "Wicked" movie covers act one of the original musical's plot.
  • The film is part of a two-part franchise, with the sequel set for release on November 21, 2025.
  • Here's what we know about "Wicked: For Good," including the cast and potential plot.

The cinematic debut of "Wicked" is already as long as the Broadway original, but only covers half of the show's plot. A second movie is coming in November 2025 to complete the story.

The director of 'Wicked' and its sequel, Jon M. Chu, announced in April 2022 that the film adaptation would be split into two movies released in 2024 and 2025.

This remains true even as Universal is marketing the movie as "Wicked," instead of "Wicked Part One." Warner Bros., the studio behind the release, also used this tactic with box office hits "Dune" and "It."

"Wicked," the musical, is the second-highest-grossing Broadway show ever. The plot follows the origin story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, a character from "The Wizard of Oz."

The movie version stars Ariana Grande, Cynthia Eviro, and Michelle Yeoh. "Wicked" competed with another double-hitter, "Gladiator 2," for the top box office spot.

Although recent cinema adaptions of stage musicals like "Cats" and Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story" haven't had box-office success, "Wicked" is primed to join the billion-dollar club. Deadline predicted a $80 million plus opening, and higher first-day ticket pre-sales than "Inside Out 2," which brought in over $1 billion in ticket sales in 2024.

Marc Platt, who produced the "Wicked" movie and stage production, said he initially intended for the story to be a film but changed his mind after speaking to Stephen Schwartz, who composed the music and lyrics for the stage musical.

"I waited a very long time to make the movie," Platt said at the movie's London premiere where Business Insider was in attendance. Now, fans will have to wait even longer, until November 21, 2025, for the second part of "Wicked," titled "Wicked: For Good."

Both parts of 'Wicked' were filmed together

A still from "Wicked" showing Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh wearing green sparkly fantasy outfits.
Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible in "Wicked."

Giles Keyte / Universal Pictures

The cast, director, and crew have all shared reasons for splitting "Wicked" into two films.

Both Chu and Platt have said in interviews that they didn't want to cram or cut songs or characters to fit the story into one movie.

Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, told Entertainment Weekly in February that the split allowed more space to develop her character's friendship and rivalry with Glinda the Good Witch, played by Grande.

A fan newsletter, "The Schwartz Scene," reported that composer Schwartz said there had to be a break after "Defying Gravity," the final song in the musical's first act.

"We found it very difficult to get past 'Defying Gravity' without a break," he said. "That song is written specifically to bring a curtain down, and whatever scene to follow it without a break just seemed hugely anti-climactic."

In 2023, Schwartz told the now-defunct site, The Messenger, that the second part will include new original songs written for the film.

"The storytelling required it, and therefore they were created—the intention was that they were organic and not imposed on the movie," he said.

Both parts of "Wicked" were filmed simultaneously and all the stars from the first film will return in the sequel. This also makes it unlikely the sequel could be delayed by production issues and should arrive on schedule next November.

'Wicked: For Good' will likely cover the second act of the Broadway musical

A still from "Wicked" showing Cynthia Erivo in green makeup and a robe and Ariana Grande wearing a pink dress looking at a mirror.
Erivo and Grande will reprise their roles in part two.

Giles Keyte / Universal Pictures

Spoilers ahead for "Wicked," the Broadway musical and the film.

The sequel's title is named after the act two song "For Good," performed by Elphaba and Glinda.

The first movie adapts the first act of the Broadway musical, explaining how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch.

Though Elphaba grew up being bullied and mistreated for her green skin and magical powers, she is desperate to prove she can be good and become like everyone else.

She and her younger sister Nessarose end up at Shiz University, a magical school in the world of Oz, but Elphaba is forced to share a room with a self-absorbed student called Galinda.

The pair bicker and fight until they become friends. At the same time, both women fall for Prince Fiyero Tiggular, and Elphaba learns that someone is trying to cage Oz's animals and stop them from speaking.

Later in the film, Elphaba is invited to meet The Wizard of Oz, its ruler, and brings along Galinda, who now goes by Glinda.

They learn that the wizard is a con man and that he and Madame Morrible, a magic professor at Shiz, are behind the conspiracy against the talking animals.

They want to use Elphaba's powers to help their plot because she is Oz's chosen one, not the Wizard — she can read a special book of spells called the Grimmerie.

But Elphaba steals the book instead and leaves Emerald City, leaving behind Glinda, who still believes in the Wizard.

The second film will cover the second act, set a few years after the first. In this act, the story connects back to the plot of "The Wizard of Oz," which viewers might be more familiar with from the 1939 film.

Glinda and Madame Morrible are part of the Wizard's administration, and Fiyero is head of a hunting squad for Elphaba.

Nessarose has become a cruel governor of Munchkinland and earned the title of the Wicked Witch of the East.

Elphaba, now known as the Wicked Witch of the West, tries to do good for the animals and people of Oz, but her magic and actions continue to harm her loved ones.

When her sister is crushed and killed by Dorothy's house, she vows to become truly wicked. This establishes her character as the witch depicted in "The Wizard of Oz" book and film.

There are no new characters in Act Two, except Dorothy, who is normally not played by a character onstage. There has been no casting announcement to suggest Dorothy will have a larger role in the second film.

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'Glicked' is out and could be the new 'Barbenheimer.' The films would need to make over $2 billion to match it.

A composite image of a woman and a man. On the left, the woman has green skin and is wearing a black dress and a pointed black hat. She's looking up. On the right is a man with curly brown hair and a short brown beard. He's wearing sleeveless leather armor with an intricately designed circular emblem on his chest and a brown tunic underneath. He also has leather cuffs around his wrists. He's staring directly at the camera.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba in "Wicked," and Paul Mescal as Lucius in "Gladiator II."

Universal Pictures/Paramount Pictures

  • Universal released "Wicked" on the same day as Paramount's "Gladiator II."
  • The coincidental release date has seen the movies dubbed "Glicked" — an echo of "Barbenheimer."
  • They will have to make over $2 billion to compete with "Oppenheimer" plus "Barbie."

There's a new "Barbenheimer" in town, as two other highly anticipated blockbusters, "Wicked" and "Gladiator 2," have premiered on the same day.

Last year, the polar-opposite movies "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" were coincidentally released on July 21.

This created a cultural moment, dubbed "Barbenheimer," that breathed life into a struggling industry as cinemagoers approached the films as a double bill.

Despite worries about the clash, "Barbenheimer" was a huge success.

"Barbie" became Warner Bros.'s highest-grossing movie, and "Oppenheimer" set a record for the highest-grossing biopic. They made over $2 billion combined.

In July, Universal announced that "Wicked" would be released on November 22 instead of November 27, clashing with Paramount's "Gladiator 2."

The coincidental pairing was promptly dubbed "Glicked."

Wake up babe, new Barbenheimer just dropped https://t.co/pQQaPlflys

— Classical Studies Memes for Hellenistic Teens (@CSMFHT) July 1, 2024

Others complained that it seemed like an attempt to re-create the "Barbenheimer" phenomenon.

their impact… I fear it can never be replicated https://t.co/w8vhOkU6GY pic.twitter.com/Qt4TSCw0tU

— 1 Year of Barbenheimer?! 🩷🖤✨ (@thederpyhipster) July 1, 2024

Me @ everybody in the comments https://t.co/nmJiQn6N7D pic.twitter.com/sUjDBdnhfE

— Raven Brunner (@raventbrunner) July 2, 2024

Last year, some fans who noticed that "Saw X" and a "PAW Patrol" movie had the same release date tried to make "Saw Patrol" happen, but it didn't generate a similar buzz.

"Wicked" and "Gladiator II" will likely fare better.

"Gladiator II," directed by Ridley Scott ("Alien," "House of Gucci"), is a sequel to one of the biggest movies of the 2000s, so it already has a fan base.

It stars buzzy actors including Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, and Denzel Washington, which could carry it to success.

Meanwhile, "Wicked," directed by Jon M. Chu ("Crazy Rich Asians," "Step Up 2: The Streets"), is the first of a two-part movie adaptation of one of the most famous musicals. Variety reported last year that the musical had made over $5 billion globally since its premiere in 2003.

Non-Disney movie musicals have been a tougher sell in cinemas, but "Wicked" has picked up momentum thanks to the star power of Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, and Jonathan Bailey.

"Glicked" becoming a cultural moment like "Barbenheimer" would give Paramount, Universal, and movie theatres a welcome boost after a slow summer.

Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst for Comscore, told Business Insider via email that the success of "Barbenheimer" was a "first of its kind scenario" that will likely not be replicated. But he said this trend has likely raised awareness for "Wicked" and "Gladiator 2."

"The studios behind both films should embrace the social media conversation and excitement that this key pre-Thanksgiving multiplex match-up is generating in the movie marketplace," Dergarabedian said. "There's really no downside to something like this."

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