Oscars 2025 Watchlist: 10 Movies with Award-Winning Potential

1. Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his unique and Oscar-worthy films, is set to release his next project following the success of “Poor Things.” This upcoming film, shrouded in mystery, is an anthology of three contemporary fable-like stories. The trailer offers glimpses of its darkly comic tone, featuring Emma Stone careening into a motel parking lot and Margaret Qualley delivering a slap to Jesse Plemons. With Lanthimos’ track record and the star-studded cast, including Oscar winners like Stone, the film is already generating significant buzz and could be a contender in the upcoming awards season.

Release Date: June 21 (US)

2. Moana 2

Following the immense success of Disney’s “Moana,” both a live-action remake and an animated sequel are in the works. With the sequel set for release in November, it aims to capture the attention of Academy voters, potentially landing nominations for Best Animated Feature. While Disney hasn’t had recent success in this category, “Moana 2” could turn the tide with its beloved characters and captivating storytelling.

Release Date: November 27

3. Gladiator 2

Ridley Scott’s return to the Colosseum with the sequel to his 2000 Best Picture winner, “Gladiator,” is highly anticipated. With an impressive cast led by Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal, along with returning stars Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi, the film promises to reignite the epic tale of ancient Rome. Despite Scott’s recent mixed reception with historical films, “Gladiator 2” could be his chance to claim an elusive Oscar.

Release Date: November 22

4. Queer

Luca Guadagnino, known for his award-winning film “Call Me By Your Name,” is set to adapt William S. Burroughs’ novel “Queer.” Starring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey, the film follows an American’s journey from New Orleans to Mexico City in the 1950s. With Guadagnino’s reputation for poignant storytelling and Craig’s departure from iconic roles like James Bond, “Queer” could be a contender in the Best Actor category.

Release Date: To be confirmed

5. Nosferatu

Robert Eggers, acclaimed for his unsettling films like “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse,” takes on the classic tale of “Nosferatu.” With Bill Skarsgård in the titular role and a stellar supporting cast, including Lily-Rose Depp and Nicholas Hoult, Eggers aims to deliver a chilling Gothic horror experience. Scheduled for release during the holiday season, “Nosferatu” could offer a dark alternative for awards consideration.

Release Date: December 25

6. Blitz

Steve McQueen’s “Blitz” explores working-class life in wartime London during World War Two. With a cast featuring Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, and Stephen Graham, the film delves into the resilience of individuals amidst the chaos of war. McQueen’s past success with historical dramas and the timely themes of survival make “Blitz” a potential contender for Best Picture.

Release Date: To be confirmed

7. The Piano Lesson

Denzel Washington’s adaptation of August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” continues his mission to bring all ten plays of the American Century Cycle to the screen. With a talented cast led by John David Washington and Samuel L. Jackson, the film explores themes of race, heritage, and family against the backdrop of 1936 Pittsburgh. Washington’s previous success with “Fences” positions “The Piano Lesson” as a strong awards contender.

Release Date: To be confirmed

8. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

George Miller’s prequel to “Mad Max: Fury Road” explores the backstory of Imperator Furiosa, with Anya Taylor-Joy in the lead role. Known for its groundbreaking visuals and action sequences, the “Mad Max” series has the potential to dominate technical categories at the Oscars. With Miller at the helm once again, “Furiosa” promises to deliver another thrilling cinematic experience.

Release Date: May 22

9. Klara and the Sun

Based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, “Klara and the Sun” follows a robot named Klara and her bond with a sickly teenager. Directed by Taika Waititi and featuring a talented cast, including Jenna Ortega and Amy Adams, the film explores themes of humanity and empathy in an AI-driven world. With Waititi’s creative vision and Ishiguro’s poignant storytelling, “Klara and the Sun” could be a contender for multiple awards.

Release Date: To be confirmed

10. Joker: Folie à Deux

Todd Phillips’ sequel to “Joker” takes a musical approach, with Lady Gaga joining Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. Building on the success of the first film, which received critical acclaim and multiple Oscars, “Joker: Folie à Deux” aims to expand the character’s universe with a unique blend of drama and music. With Gaga’s star power and Phillips’ bold vision, the sequel could stand out in the awards season.

Release Date: To be confirmed