Lights, Camera, Weekend! The Best Movies to See (May 16–18, 2025)

This weekend, May 16–18, 2025, theaters offer an exciting blend of fresh releases and enduring favorites that have captivated audiences over the past several weeks. Whether you’re in the mood for a pulse-pounding horror flick, a surreal indie journey, or heart-pounding drama, our comprehensive guide—backed by Rotten Tomatoes reviews and the latest word of mouth—is your ticket to choosing the best film for your weekend.

New Releases Hitting Theaters This Weekend

“Final Destination: Bloodlines” kicks off the weekend with a satisfying blend of nostalgia and innovative horror. With a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 92% among critics and 89% among audiences, this latest installment in the long-running franchise dazzles with its inventive death sequences and clever callbacks to earlier films. It’s a must-see for horror fans eager for both scares and style.

In “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” an offbeat psychological thriller, audiences are invited on a surreal journey of self-discovery. Although critics remain divided—reflected in a low critic score of 15%—the film’s experimental narrative and standout performances by Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan have earned it a solid 74% audience rating. If you appreciate films that challenge convention and spark conversation, this quirky ride is worth your time.

Mumbai’s “Sister Midnight” brings a refreshing twist to the dark comedy genre. Boasting a near-perfect 96% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics, the film follows a rebellious woman’s personal revolution. Its unique narrative and cultural depth have generated a significant buzz on social media, making it an essential pick for anyone who enjoys inventive storytelling with a bold cultural flair.

“The Old Woman with the Knife” offers a gripping blend of action and drama as an aging assassin mentors a young, reckless rookie amidst a deadly conspiracy. Garnering 93% from critics, this film impresses with its razor-sharp writing and dynamic exploration of aging, drawing praise from movie enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

“Bound” stands out as a powerful crime drama where a young woman fights to escape an abusive past and rebuild a shattered life in New York City. With an 87% Rotten Tomatoes score among critics, its raw honesty and vigorous performances shine through, sparking heartfelt discussions among audiences on social media about survival and empowerment.

“To Live and Die and Live” is a moving portrayal of struggle and redemption set against the gritty backdrop of Detroit. With 89% from critics, the film’s authentic depiction of personal battles, addiction, and hope resonates deeply with viewers, making it another noteworthy new release for this weekend.

Holdovers Worth Revisiting

For moviegoers who may have missed earlier releases or are in the mood for a familiar favorite, there are a couple of films still generating excitement after their initial release in recent weeks.

“Thunderbolts”—released on May 2, 2025—continues to attract audiences with its refreshing take on the antihero ensemble. Featuring a diverse cast from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this film, supported by a 72% critic rating and an 85% audience score, has captivated fans with its post-credits surprises and dynamic character interplay.

The indie dark comedy “Friendship,” which debuted on May 9 and is set to expand its release later this month, has already become a cult favorite. With a remarkable 91% from critics and 88% from audiences, its offbeat humor and cringe-inducing scenarios have made it a standout entry. Movie enthusiasts who enjoy films with a unique narrative voice should definitely consider revisiting this gem.

Coming Soon: Upcoming Films to Keep on Your Radar

Looking beyond this weekend, several exciting films are slated for release in late May and June 2025. These anticipated films promise a wide range of genres and creative visions that could dominate the box office in the coming weeks.

“Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” is set for release on May 23, 2025. Marking what is touted as Tom Cruise’s farewell to the high-octane franchise, this installment promises breathtaking stunts and the emotional depth that fans have come to expect from Ethan Hunt’s adventures.

Also debuting on May 23, the live-action adaptation “Lilo & Stitch” offers a heartwarming recreation of the beloved animated classic. With its promise of stunning visual storytelling and a tribute to the original’s charm, this film is poised to capture families and nostalgic audiences alike.

Director Wes Anderson’s “The Phoenician Scheme,” coming May 30, 2025, features an all-star cast including Benicio del Toro, Scarlett Johansson, and Tom Hanks. Its signature quirky style and intricately woven narrative are already turning heads, making it a film to watch for those who appreciate offbeat and artful cinema.

June 2025 brings more variety with “Ballerina” on June 6—a spin-off from the John Wick universe starring Ana de Armas—which expands the franchise’s mythos with fierce action sequences and emotional storytelling. On June 13, “How to Train Your Dragon” takes flight in a live-action rendition of the animated series, with early previews spotlighting its spectacular visuals and faithful homage to the original tale.

For fans of thrilling horror and zombie sagas, “28 Years Later” is set to debut on June 20, directed by Danny Boyle. This continuation of the zombie apocalypse series digs into the aftermath decades later, promising to deliver both scares and thoughtful commentary. Also on June 20, Pixar’s “Elio” offers an original animated adventure about a young boy chosen to represent Earth before an intergalactic council—adding another feather to Pixar’s storytelling cap.

Rounding out the summer lineup are “M3GAN 2.0” and “F1,” both scheduled for release on June 27. “M3GAN 2.0” picks up on the chilling legacy of its AI doll predecessor, amping up the horror and dark humor, while “F1,” directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, is set to provide high-speed thrills and emotional depth in the adrenaline-fueled world of Formula 1 racing.