Top 15 Most Anticipated Horror Sequels of 2025
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VOICE OVER: Rebecca Brayton
WRITTEN BY: Nick Spake
Get ready for a spine-chilling journey through the most anticipated horror sequels of 2025! From franchise revivals to unexpected follow-ups, we're diving into the most exciting horror movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat and terrify you like never before! Our countdown includes exciting sequels like "28 Years Later," "M3GAN 2.0," "The Conjuring: Last Rites," and many more thrilling horror experiences that promise to bring fresh scares and continue beloved franchises! What is your most anticipated horror sequel of 2025? Share in the comments.
Top 15 Most Anticipated Horror Sequels of 2025
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at horror movie sequels currently slated to come out in 2025. Prequels, spinoffs - virtually anything part of an ongoing franchise - are fair game. Release dates are subject to change.
“Thread: An Insidious Tale” (2025)
The “Insidious” series has inspired sequels, prequels, and interquels (or in-between-quels as we like to call them). “Thread” marks the franchise’s first spinoff, moving the focus away from the Lambert family. While we wouldn’t be surprised if Lin Shaye made another appearance as Elise Rainier[a], the only cast members who have been confirmed thus far are Mandy Moore and Kumail Nanjiani. The plot centers on a couple who attempt to undo their daughter’s death with a time-travel spell. Unsurprisingly, their actions have unforeseen consequences. While James Wan remains a producer, “Thread” will mark the feature directorial debut of Jeremy Slater, who has developed shows like “The Umbrella Academy,” “Moon Knight,” and “The Exorcist.” We’re ready to dive even further into the “Insidious” lore come August.
“Fear Street: Prom Queen” (2025)
Most trilogies are spread out over a few years. Meanwhile, the first three “Fear Street” films were all released in July 2021. Continuing the series was a no-brainer for Netflix. Although a fourth film set in the 1950s was considered, the team ultimately settled on an adaptation of R. L. Stine’s “The Prom Queen,” taking place in 1988. The story revolves around the popular girls at Shadyside High competing for the crown. When an unlikely candidate throws their hat into the ring, others are mysteriously taken out of the equation one by one. Director/co-writer Matt Palmer previously made the 2018 Netflix psychological thriller “Calibre.” With 50 other books in the main “Fear Street” series, “Prom Queen” may be the first of many direct adaptations.
“I Know What You Did Last Summer” Sequel (2025)
Since “Scream” recently made a comeback, it only makes sense that Hollywood would resurrect the other ‘90s film that breathed new life into the slasher genre. Where the first “I Know What You Did Last Summer” was a sleeper hit, the franchise struck a low point with the straight-to-video “I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer.” There were talks of rebooting the franchise with Mike Flanagan attached. That project was scrapped in favor of this legacy sequel, which brings back Jennifer Love Hewitt as Julie James and Freddie Prinze Jr. as Ray Bronson. Joining them is a cast of up-and-comers and director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson[b] of “Do Revenge.” With a July 18, 2025 release date, it’ll surely be another summer to remember.
“Predator: Badlands” (2025)
The “Predator” franchise has struggled to recapture the thrills of the 1987 classic. With 2022’s “Prey,” director Dan Trachtenberg delivered easily the best “Predator” movie since the original. Where his previous film took us to the past, Trachtenberg will explore the future in “Predator: Badlands.” Elle Fanning stars in this standalone story about sisters who find themselves on an alien planet. Of course, the Predator is also present, but Trachtenberg has teased a different side of the creature, promising something emotional and badass. In addition to “Badlands” releasing on November 7, 2025, it’s been reported that Trachtenberg has another “Predator” movie coming out this year. Whether it’s a sequel to “Prey” or something entirely different, the franchise seems to be in good hands.
“Thanksgiving 2” (2025)
Over a decade after “Grindhouse,” Eli Roth finally turned his “Thanksgiving” trailer into a feature film. The same month that film hit theaters, Roth announced that a sequel was already being developed for a 2025 release. It’s expected to arrive just in time for Turkey Day with Addison Rae reprising her role as Gabby. Roth is in the director’s chair again, co-writing the script with Jeff Rendell[c]. Looking ahead, Roth has expressed interest in expanding the franchise beyond Thanksgiving, putting a deadly spin on other holidays as well. For now, though, Roth is focused on trying to outdo himself with this sequel. Whoever is behind the John Carver mask this time, we won’t say no to a second course.
“They Follow” (2025)
Few horror movies have stuck with us over the past decade like “It Follows,” which is appropriate given the subject matter. Although David Robert Mitchell’s film felt perfectly self-contained, we’ve always been curious about revisiting this universe. Mitchell and star Maika Monroe[d] are coming back for this long-awaited sequel, fittingly titled “They Follow.” Shooting is set to commence sometime this year with the film expected to be released by year’s end. Distribution is being handled by Neon, which has a reputation for surreal, ambitious horror. While little is known about the plot, Monroe says she’s “obsessed” with the script. She’s also promised to speak with Mitchell about including the shell phone. Speaking of which, it’s 2025 and still no shell phones? Get on that, Apple!
“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” (2025)
Based on the widely popular video game series, “Five Nights at Freddy’s” brought the jump scares to the theaters in 2023, breaking records for Blumhouse. While there might’ve been a divide between critics and audiences, the film’s solid cast and first-rate practical effects laid the groundwork for a promising film franchise. “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” is coming out on December 5, 2025, making us wonder if the sequel might have a Christmas theme. In any case, expect to receive a Toy Freddy in your stalking. All of the key figures are expected to return, including Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Not much else has been announced about the sequel, but we’ll be keeping our eyes on the monitors for updates.
“V/H/S/8” (2025)
As far as the found footage movies go, “V/H/S” has never reached cultural phenomenon status like “The Blair Witch Project” and “Paranormal Activity.” Yet, it’s arguably proven more enduring than those franchises, inspiring several sequels and multiple spinoffs in just over a decade. At New York Comic Con in 2024, Shudder announced the eighth mainline film, simply titled “V/H/S/8.” Like the past few “V/H/S” movies, this sequel will be another streaming exclusive. Outside of its 2025 release, the plot and talent involved have yet to be unveiled. We can say one thing for sure, however. “V/H/S” isn’t going out of style anytime soon.
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” (2025)
It would mark the end of an era, and what an incredible era it has been. Since its debut in 2013, “The Conjuring” Universe has become the highest-grossing horror franchise in history, spawning eight films and counting. The upcoming ninth installment, “The Conjuring: Last Rites” will conclude the main series, although several spin-offs and their sequels are still in development. While plot details remain under wraps, the film will see the return of Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren, tackling yet another chilling case of paranormal activity. Directed by Michael Chaves and co-written by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, who both worked on 2021’s “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,” this finale seems to be in capable hands.
“Final Destination: Bloodlines” (2025)
It’s been over a decade since the last “Final Destination” hit theaters, so naturally, anticipation for the return of the franchise is through the roof. The sixth installment, “Final Destination: Bloodlines” brings back the unseen yet relentless antagonist, Death itself, but with a twist that promises to shake up the usual formula. This time, the story centers around a young woman whose grandmother cheated Death decades earlier, leaving her and her family in the path of its inevitable wrath. It is set to feature a fresh cast of characters, while welcoming back series veteran Tony Todd in his iconic role as William Bludworth. As always, we look forward to seeing just how creatively this movie will, well, kill it.
“Talk 2 Me” (2025)
One of the most original horror films that hit screens in 2022 was the low-budget Australian gem “Talk to Me.” Despite being made for under $5 million, the film earned rave reviews for its impressive practical effects, stellar performances and genuinely terrifying scares. By the end of its theatrical run, it had grossed over 20 times its budget, a success that practically guaranteed a sequel. Scheduled for release sometime in 2025, the follow-up, “Talk 2 Me,” will once again be directed by twin filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, with a screenplay by Danny and Bill Hinzman, the writers behind the first film. By all indications, this will be another project that will give moviegoers a lot to talk about.
“M3GAN 2.0” (2025)
With the rise of artificial intelligence and humanoid robots, it was only a matter of time before horror filmmakers jumped in with their own twisted take. 2022’s “M3GAN” brought our worst fears to life, introducing an AI robot that gains self-awareness and becomes a deadly machine. If you thought the murderous, viral dancing Android was done for, think again, “M3GAN 2.0” is coming in 2025 with an upgraded version. The sequel will once again be written by Akela Cooper and directed by Gerard Johnstone, with Allison Williams and Violet McGraw reprising their roles. While plot details are scant, producer James Wan has expressed confidence in the story’s direction. Here’s hoping the new update is just as terrifying, if not more!
“The Black Phone 2” (2025)
2021’s “The Black Phone” was an unexpected box-office success. The horror film follows a young boy abducted by a serial killer, who uses a phone in his basement to communicate with the ghosts of the killer’s past victims and plot his escape. Although it seemed like a one-and-done story, the film’s commercial success led producers to greenlight a sequel, which will arrive just in time for Halloween 2025. It’s unclear what direction the plot will go, but director Scott Derrickson has teased that Joe Hill, Stephen King’s son and the author of the short story the film was based on, pitched a terrific idea for the sequel. Given the Kings’ reputation for crafting compelling horror, we can expect something truly unforgettable.
“Saw XI” (2025)
Before the release of its tenth installment in 2023, the “Saw” franchise had begun to lose its edge, with many of the preceding films receiving largely negative reviews. However, “Saw X” was widely praised as a return to form, with some even ranking it higher than the first film. Following its success, a sequel was quickly announced, set for release in September 2025. Not much is known about the plot for now, but Tobin Bell will reprise his role as Jigsaw, and Kevin Greutert, the director of “Saw X,” will also be returning. Will this new installment continue the storyline of the tenth film, or follow up on the lukewarm 2021 entry “Spiral”? We’ll just have to wait and see.
“28 Years Later” (2025)
In 2002, a then-unknown Cillian Murphy starred in “28 Days Later” as a bicycle courier who wakes from a coma to find a world ravaged by a virus that turns people into killers. The film became an unexpected hit, and is widely credited with reviving the zombie genre. Now, over two decades later, Murphy is returning to the franchise in the aptly titled sequel, “28 Years Later.” Even more, the installment will also feature the return of director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland. The film is set to deliver a dystopian summer experience when it hits theatres in June 2025. Fortunately, fans won’t have to wait long for more, as a follow-up, helmed by “Candyman” director Nia DaCosta, is already in development.
Which horror movie sequel are you dying to see in 2025? Let us know in the comments.
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at horror movie sequels currently slated to come out in 2025. Prequels, spinoffs - virtually anything part of an ongoing franchise - are fair game. Release dates are subject to change.
“Thread: An Insidious Tale” (2025)
The “Insidious” series has inspired sequels, prequels, and interquels (or in-between-quels as we like to call them). “Thread” marks the franchise’s first spinoff, moving the focus away from the Lambert family. While we wouldn’t be surprised if Lin Shaye made another appearance as Elise Rainier[a], the only cast members who have been confirmed thus far are Mandy Moore and Kumail Nanjiani. The plot centers on a couple who attempt to undo their daughter’s death with a time-travel spell. Unsurprisingly, their actions have unforeseen consequences. While James Wan remains a producer, “Thread” will mark the feature directorial debut of Jeremy Slater, who has developed shows like “The Umbrella Academy,” “Moon Knight,” and “The Exorcist.” We’re ready to dive even further into the “Insidious” lore come August.
“Fear Street: Prom Queen” (2025)
Most trilogies are spread out over a few years. Meanwhile, the first three “Fear Street” films were all released in July 2021. Continuing the series was a no-brainer for Netflix. Although a fourth film set in the 1950s was considered, the team ultimately settled on an adaptation of R. L. Stine’s “The Prom Queen,” taking place in 1988. The story revolves around the popular girls at Shadyside High competing for the crown. When an unlikely candidate throws their hat into the ring, others are mysteriously taken out of the equation one by one. Director/co-writer Matt Palmer previously made the 2018 Netflix psychological thriller “Calibre.” With 50 other books in the main “Fear Street” series, “Prom Queen” may be the first of many direct adaptations.
“I Know What You Did Last Summer” Sequel (2025)
Since “Scream” recently made a comeback, it only makes sense that Hollywood would resurrect the other ‘90s film that breathed new life into the slasher genre. Where the first “I Know What You Did Last Summer” was a sleeper hit, the franchise struck a low point with the straight-to-video “I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer.” There were talks of rebooting the franchise with Mike Flanagan attached. That project was scrapped in favor of this legacy sequel, which brings back Jennifer Love Hewitt as Julie James and Freddie Prinze Jr. as Ray Bronson. Joining them is a cast of up-and-comers and director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson[b] of “Do Revenge.” With a July 18, 2025 release date, it’ll surely be another summer to remember.
“Predator: Badlands” (2025)
The “Predator” franchise has struggled to recapture the thrills of the 1987 classic. With 2022’s “Prey,” director Dan Trachtenberg delivered easily the best “Predator” movie since the original. Where his previous film took us to the past, Trachtenberg will explore the future in “Predator: Badlands.” Elle Fanning stars in this standalone story about sisters who find themselves on an alien planet. Of course, the Predator is also present, but Trachtenberg has teased a different side of the creature, promising something emotional and badass. In addition to “Badlands” releasing on November 7, 2025, it’s been reported that Trachtenberg has another “Predator” movie coming out this year. Whether it’s a sequel to “Prey” or something entirely different, the franchise seems to be in good hands.
“Thanksgiving 2” (2025)
Over a decade after “Grindhouse,” Eli Roth finally turned his “Thanksgiving” trailer into a feature film. The same month that film hit theaters, Roth announced that a sequel was already being developed for a 2025 release. It’s expected to arrive just in time for Turkey Day with Addison Rae reprising her role as Gabby. Roth is in the director’s chair again, co-writing the script with Jeff Rendell[c]. Looking ahead, Roth has expressed interest in expanding the franchise beyond Thanksgiving, putting a deadly spin on other holidays as well. For now, though, Roth is focused on trying to outdo himself with this sequel. Whoever is behind the John Carver mask this time, we won’t say no to a second course.
“They Follow” (2025)
Few horror movies have stuck with us over the past decade like “It Follows,” which is appropriate given the subject matter. Although David Robert Mitchell’s film felt perfectly self-contained, we’ve always been curious about revisiting this universe. Mitchell and star Maika Monroe[d] are coming back for this long-awaited sequel, fittingly titled “They Follow.” Shooting is set to commence sometime this year with the film expected to be released by year’s end. Distribution is being handled by Neon, which has a reputation for surreal, ambitious horror. While little is known about the plot, Monroe says she’s “obsessed” with the script. She’s also promised to speak with Mitchell about including the shell phone. Speaking of which, it’s 2025 and still no shell phones? Get on that, Apple!
“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” (2025)
Based on the widely popular video game series, “Five Nights at Freddy’s” brought the jump scares to the theaters in 2023, breaking records for Blumhouse. While there might’ve been a divide between critics and audiences, the film’s solid cast and first-rate practical effects laid the groundwork for a promising film franchise. “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” is coming out on December 5, 2025, making us wonder if the sequel might have a Christmas theme. In any case, expect to receive a Toy Freddy in your stalking. All of the key figures are expected to return, including Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Not much else has been announced about the sequel, but we’ll be keeping our eyes on the monitors for updates.
“V/H/S/8” (2025)
As far as the found footage movies go, “V/H/S” has never reached cultural phenomenon status like “The Blair Witch Project” and “Paranormal Activity.” Yet, it’s arguably proven more enduring than those franchises, inspiring several sequels and multiple spinoffs in just over a decade. At New York Comic Con in 2024, Shudder announced the eighth mainline film, simply titled “V/H/S/8.” Like the past few “V/H/S” movies, this sequel will be another streaming exclusive. Outside of its 2025 release, the plot and talent involved have yet to be unveiled. We can say one thing for sure, however. “V/H/S” isn’t going out of style anytime soon.
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” (2025)
It would mark the end of an era, and what an incredible era it has been. Since its debut in 2013, “The Conjuring” Universe has become the highest-grossing horror franchise in history, spawning eight films and counting. The upcoming ninth installment, “The Conjuring: Last Rites” will conclude the main series, although several spin-offs and their sequels are still in development. While plot details remain under wraps, the film will see the return of Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren, tackling yet another chilling case of paranormal activity. Directed by Michael Chaves and co-written by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, who both worked on 2021’s “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,” this finale seems to be in capable hands.
“Final Destination: Bloodlines” (2025)
It’s been over a decade since the last “Final Destination” hit theaters, so naturally, anticipation for the return of the franchise is through the roof. The sixth installment, “Final Destination: Bloodlines” brings back the unseen yet relentless antagonist, Death itself, but with a twist that promises to shake up the usual formula. This time, the story centers around a young woman whose grandmother cheated Death decades earlier, leaving her and her family in the path of its inevitable wrath. It is set to feature a fresh cast of characters, while welcoming back series veteran Tony Todd in his iconic role as William Bludworth. As always, we look forward to seeing just how creatively this movie will, well, kill it.
“Talk 2 Me” (2025)
One of the most original horror films that hit screens in 2022 was the low-budget Australian gem “Talk to Me.” Despite being made for under $5 million, the film earned rave reviews for its impressive practical effects, stellar performances and genuinely terrifying scares. By the end of its theatrical run, it had grossed over 20 times its budget, a success that practically guaranteed a sequel. Scheduled for release sometime in 2025, the follow-up, “Talk 2 Me,” will once again be directed by twin filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, with a screenplay by Danny and Bill Hinzman, the writers behind the first film. By all indications, this will be another project that will give moviegoers a lot to talk about.
“M3GAN 2.0” (2025)
With the rise of artificial intelligence and humanoid robots, it was only a matter of time before horror filmmakers jumped in with their own twisted take. 2022’s “M3GAN” brought our worst fears to life, introducing an AI robot that gains self-awareness and becomes a deadly machine. If you thought the murderous, viral dancing Android was done for, think again, “M3GAN 2.0” is coming in 2025 with an upgraded version. The sequel will once again be written by Akela Cooper and directed by Gerard Johnstone, with Allison Williams and Violet McGraw reprising their roles. While plot details are scant, producer James Wan has expressed confidence in the story’s direction. Here’s hoping the new update is just as terrifying, if not more!
“The Black Phone 2” (2025)
2021’s “The Black Phone” was an unexpected box-office success. The horror film follows a young boy abducted by a serial killer, who uses a phone in his basement to communicate with the ghosts of the killer’s past victims and plot his escape. Although it seemed like a one-and-done story, the film’s commercial success led producers to greenlight a sequel, which will arrive just in time for Halloween 2025. It’s unclear what direction the plot will go, but director Scott Derrickson has teased that Joe Hill, Stephen King’s son and the author of the short story the film was based on, pitched a terrific idea for the sequel. Given the Kings’ reputation for crafting compelling horror, we can expect something truly unforgettable.
“Saw XI” (2025)
Before the release of its tenth installment in 2023, the “Saw” franchise had begun to lose its edge, with many of the preceding films receiving largely negative reviews. However, “Saw X” was widely praised as a return to form, with some even ranking it higher than the first film. Following its success, a sequel was quickly announced, set for release in September 2025. Not much is known about the plot for now, but Tobin Bell will reprise his role as Jigsaw, and Kevin Greutert, the director of “Saw X,” will also be returning. Will this new installment continue the storyline of the tenth film, or follow up on the lukewarm 2021 entry “Spiral”? We’ll just have to wait and see.
“28 Years Later” (2025)
In 2002, a then-unknown Cillian Murphy starred in “28 Days Later” as a bicycle courier who wakes from a coma to find a world ravaged by a virus that turns people into killers. The film became an unexpected hit, and is widely credited with reviving the zombie genre. Now, over two decades later, Murphy is returning to the franchise in the aptly titled sequel, “28 Years Later.” Even more, the installment will also feature the return of director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland. The film is set to deliver a dystopian summer experience when it hits theatres in June 2025. Fortunately, fans won’t have to wait long for more, as a follow-up, helmed by “Candyman” director Nia DaCosta, is already in development.
Which horror movie sequel are you dying to see in 2025? Let us know in the comments.
[a]https://youtu.be/E2gMacNOvkA?si=xRUKI-OOHS8URNen&t=8
[b]https://youtu.be/E3vaZPp3IvE?si=0k812gwJn6pSSSBV&t=3
[c]https://youtu.be/n5uAYjtjKos?si=suFhMTmzrMbttZHZ
[d]https://youtu.be/Nouovi6OJ7I?si=d_3fAwotpH0wCKrT&t=27
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