Best Rising Stars and Breakthrough Performances of 2025

2025 was a fantastic year for movies, marked by exciting new actors and surprising performances from established stars. We saw the rise of potential icons in everything from big-budget superhero films to smaller, independent movies. These actors, whether taking on leading roles in popular franchises or shining in original stories, brought a unique energy and emotional honesty to the screen, capturing the hearts of audiences and reshaping the Hollywood landscape. This collection celebrates those standout moments and the stars who emerged throughout the year.

David Corenswet – ‘Superman’ (2025)

David Corenswet is the new Superman in the upcoming reboot directed by James Gunn. He plays both the kind, everyday Clark Kent and the powerful Superman, emphasizing themes of hope and strong beliefs. This is a huge step for Corenswet, who previously appeared in smaller roles on TV and in independent films, and now takes on a world-famous superhero role. Early reactions have been positive, with fans impressed by his physical appearance and the emotional connection he brings to the character for a new audience.

Ben Wang – ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ (2025)

Ben Wang plays Li Fong in the latest installment of this popular martial arts series, connecting the original stories with the newer films. He won the lead role – competing against many other actors – and appears alongside martial arts icons Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. Wang portrays a relatable and vulnerable teenager who is both learning self-defense and trying to figure out who he is. His experience in musical theater and his ability to speak Mandarin bring a special realism to his performance.

Mason Thames – ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)

Mason Thames shines as Hiccup, the quirky and creative hero, in the new live-action version of the classic animated film. He perfectly embodies the character’s funny moments and genuine emotions, showing how Hiccup transforms his Viking village. Despite acting alongside a lot of computer-generated dragons, Thames is captivating on screen, proving he’s a talented young actor with the potential to lead big-budget films.

Nico Parker – ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)

Nico Parker shines as Astrid in the live-action dragon-riding movie. She expertly portrays the character’s strength and determination, while also showing a thoughtful and caring side as she guides Hiccup. Building on her experience in high-quality TV shows, Parker confidently takes on the challenge of a large-scale fantasy film. Her strong connection with the other actors and commitment to Astrid’s tough spirit make her performance particularly memorable.

Chase Infiniti – ‘One Battle After Another’ (2025)

Chase Infiniti is receiving widespread praise for her performance in Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film, a large-scale drama. Playing the daughter of Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, she impressively holds her own alongside experienced actors. Infiniti effortlessly handles both emotionally challenging scenes and action-packed moments, quickly establishing herself as one of the year’s most promising new talents thanks to this standout debut.

Sophie Thatcher – ‘Companion’ (2025)

Sophie Thatcher gives a chilling performance in this new psychological thriller, from the team behind the horror film ‘Barbarian’. She plays a woman caught in a strange and risky experiment that pushes her to her mental and emotional limits. Thatcher expertly portrays both intense fear and determined resistance as the story unfolds with unexpected twists. This role proves she can powerfully lead a movie with nuance and skill.

Damson Idris – ‘F1’ (2025)

In this fast-paced racing drama, Damson Idris plays a new driver guided by a seasoned pro, Brad Pitt. Idris convincingly portrays the physical demands of being a top-level athlete, handling the intense speed and pressure with skill. He expertly acted within the tight confines of actual racing cars while also delivering a captivating character journey. This role is a major step for Idris into large-scale blockbuster films.

Maia Kealoha – ‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2025)

Newcomer Maia Kealoha stars as Lilo in the live-action version of the beloved Disney film. Discovered in Hawaii through an open casting call, she brings an authentic island feel to the role. Kealoha beautifully portrays Lilo’s playful spirit and strong devotion, even while acting alongside a computer-generated Stitch. Her natural talent and charisma make her the heart of this fun, family movie.

Sydney Agudong – ‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2025)

Sydney Elizebeth Agudong plays Nani in the live-action film, and beautifully captures the challenges of a young woman raising her sister on her own. She delivers a natural and believable performance that keeps the story grounded, even with the added excitement of an alien invasion. Agudong skillfully portrays Nani’s struggle to be both a parent and a sister, and this role is a significant step forward in her career, especially as part of a major Disney movie.

Eva Victor – ‘Sorry, Baby’ (2025)

Eva Victor wrote, and stars in, this touching independent film, which gained popularity after being shown at several film festivals. The movie centers around a graduate student navigating the difficult consequences of a major life event while trying to live a normal life. Victor gives a remarkable performance, blending humor and heartbreak as they examine themes of trauma and self-discovery. The film truly showcases their talent as both a writer and a compelling actor.

Miles Caton – ‘Sinners’ (2025)

Miles Caton delivers a striking performance in his first film role, appearing in Ryan Coogler’s suspenseful thriller. He plays an important supporting character in the story of two brothers who return to their hometown and encounter a frightening, age-old evil. Caton adds a genuine and lively presence to the cast, alongside Michael B. Jordan, and critics have praised his mature portrayal of the intense, frightening moments in the film.

Jacobi Jupe – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Jacobi Jupe gives a powerfully moving and delicate performance in this adaptation of a beloved novel. He plays William Shakespeare’s son during a turbulent time for his family and the world around them. Jupe brilliantly portrays the character’s childhood innocence and vulnerability, leaving a lasting impression throughout the film. This role marks him as a truly exciting new talent in serious, high-quality filmmaking.

Odessa A’Zion – ‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Odessa A’Zion shines in the Safdie brothers’ new film, a vibrant story set in the world of professional ping pong during the mid-1900s. She plays a woman competing in a tough, male-dominated scene with incredible energy, charm, and a clever sense of humor. A’Zion’s performance is full of life and perfectly fits the film’s quick tempo, showcasing her range as an actress after previously taking on more serious roles. This stylish period piece allows her to demonstrate a completely different side of her talent.

Nadia Melliti – ‘The Little Sister’ (2025)

Nadia Melliti is receiving praise for her role as Fatima in this French film, which explores themes of identity and family. Despite being a newcomer to acting, she gives a remarkably subtle and honest performance as a young woman grappling with her beliefs and who she truly is. The story unfolds over a Parisian summer as she navigates self-discovery and tough decisions. Melliti’s powerful and authentic acting has quickly made her a rising star on the international scene.

Ryan Bader – ‘The Smashing Machine’ (2025)

Ryan Bader, known for his career as a mixed martial arts fighter, has moved into acting and delivers a strong performance in a new film about fighter Mark Kerr. He plays a key friend and rival to the main character, sharing scenes with Dwayne Johnson where he brings both emotional depth and believable physicality. Bader’s character acts as the film’s moral center, powerfully showing the physical and emotional cost of being a fighter.

Grace Edwards – ‘Jay Kelly’ (2025)

Grace Edwards appears alongside George Clooney in Noah Baumbach’s newest film. She plays the daughter of a well-known personality, bringing a lively and rebellious energy to their family’s story. Edwards delivers a strong performance, matching her famous co-stars with a realistic portrayal of a teenager’s struggles and desires. This role establishes her as a promising new face in smart, character-focused comedies.

Sandeep Pradeep – ‘Eko’ (2025)

Sandeep Pradeep leads the cast of this Malayalam thriller, which dives into the worlds of technology, surveillance, and how much privacy we really have. He plays a young man whose life takes a dangerous turn when he finds a strange problem with his devices, leading him into a larger conspiracy. Pradeep’s powerful and captivating performance has been praised as a standout moment in modern South Indian film.

Kalyani Priyadarshan – ‘Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra’ (2025)

Kalyani Priyadarshan stars in a fresh superhero movie that blends local legends with the energy of modern city life. She portrays a secretive woman who must unlock her hidden abilities to dismantle a criminal organization in Bengaluru. Priyadarshan’s performance is both physically impressive and skillfully combines classic action sequences with elements of mythology. The film’s popularity has established her as the lead for an exciting new series of movies.

Shira Haas – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Shira Haas is now part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing a character named Ruth who adds depth to the superhero world. Ruth has a hidden history and special powers that force the main hero to see things differently. Known for her powerful performances in smaller TV projects, Haas brings that same intensity and emotional depth to this big-budget film, adding a realistic and captivating human side to the intense political story.

Geraldine Viswanathan – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Geraldine Viswanathan shines in the superhero movie, bringing both humor and genuine emotion to the team of flawed heroes. She handles the big action scenes effortlessly and provides a welcome bit of levity and heart. Known for her work in independent films, Viswanathan seamlessly transitions to this large-scale blockbuster, delivering a particularly memorable performance among a cast of already-famous actors.

Lewis Pullman – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Lewis Pullman joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a compelling role, playing a character struggling with great power and difficult choices. He brings a captivating mix of vulnerability and intrigue to the film, leaving viewers uncertain about his intentions. Building on his experience in action movies, Pullman delivers a performance that is both powerful and emotionally moving, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s exciting new leading actors.

Cooper Hoffman – ‘The Long Walk’ (2025)

Cooper Hoffman stars in a new film based on Stephen King’s novel about a brutal walking competition set in a bleak future. He plays a young man driven to his breaking point, both physically and emotionally, as he fights for a prize that could change his life. Hoffman gives a powerful and exhausting performance, showing both the desperation and the hope of his character. This role builds on his impressive first film and demonstrates his ability to lead a challenging and intense story.

SZA – ‘One of Them Days’ (2025)

SZA is making her acting debut in a new comedy produced by Issa Rae. She stars as a woman whose day is filled with funny, but escalatingly chaotic, situations. Critics are highlighting her natural comedic timing and the great connection she has with co-star Keke Palmer. This role suggests SZA could have a bright future in acting.

Yonas Kibreab – ‘Elio’ (2025)

I was completely captivated by Yonas Kibreab’s performance as the main character! He really is the heart of this Pixar film, bringing such genuine wonder and emotion to the role of this unlikely kid who ends up representing Earth. Honestly, his performance is what makes you really feel connected to the story and its message about being brave and finding where you belong. He’s a true star and carries the whole movie with so much charisma and a really impressive vocal range – I can’t wait to see what he does next!

Emma Myers – ‘A Minecraft Movie’ (2025)

I have to say, Emma Myers really shines in this live-action take on the hugely popular game. She brings a wonderful sense of adventure to the blocky, familiar world, playing a young explorer who’s not only trying to survive, but also help her friends get back where they belong. What I especially appreciated was how she grounded the whole fantastical setting – you can tell she’s comfortable with this kind of storytelling and brings a very relatable, human quality to the role. It’s a performance that I think will appeal to both die-hard fans of the game and people completely new to it.

Mia Tomlinson – ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ (2025)

In the newest film of the popular horror series, Mia Tomlinson shines as a woman haunted by terrifying events and in need of the Warrens’ expertise. Tomlinson gives a powerful performance, showing both the physical and emotional strain of being tormented by the supernatural. Critics are praising her work for revitalizing the franchise with a fresh perspective.

Isabela Merced – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Isabela Merced shines as Hawkgirl in the reimagined superhero world, bringing a strong and self-reliant energy to the character. She delivers a dynamic, action-packed performance, demonstrating her skills alongside impressive visual effects. Merced also delves into the emotional life of a hero grappling with her history and adapting to today’s challenges. This role is a significant breakthrough for her, solidifying her place as a key figure in the franchise.

Nicholas Hoult – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Nicholas Hoult brilliantly plays Lex Luthor, portraying him as a highly intelligent and subtly threatening figure. He updates the classic villain for today’s viewers, focusing on the power of big business and a deep, unsettling obsession with ideas. This is a fresh take on the character, proving Hoult’s skill at becoming convincingly complex villains, and many consider it one of the best villainous performances ever seen in the genre.

Teyana Taylor – ‘One Battle After Another’ (2025)

Teyana Taylor gives a strong and realistic performance in this historical drama, which is set during a time of significant social upheaval. She plays a woman determined to protect her family and community, showcasing both strength and grace. Taylor is proving herself as a truly captivating and emotional actress, following up on her previous work in independent films. Her scenes are among the most moving and memorable parts of the movie.

Jodie Comer – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Jodie Comer powerfully leads the new installment of this famous post-apocalyptic series, bringing a raw and relatable human side to the story. She plays a woman struggling to survive in a world devastated by a widespread infection and societal breakdown. Comer’s impressive acting skills show a character who is tough and resilient, but also deeply compassionate. Her performance beautifully connects this new series to the original movies.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Aaron Taylor-Johnson gives a powerful and physically demanding performance in this intense survival horror film, playing a man desperately fighting to protect his community. He brings a raw, determined energy to the role, grounding the film’s thrilling action scenes. Taylor-Johnson also skillfully portrays the emotional toll of living in a world filled with constant threat, solidifying his position as a leading action star capable of nuanced and complex acting.

Ralph Fiennes – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Ralph Fiennes gives a captivating and surprising performance in the latest horror film. He plays a doctor who’s adapted to life after the apocalypse, bringing a sense of calm and thoughtful curiosity to a world filled with chaos and violence. Fiennes portrays the character with subtle complexity, leaving the audience wondering about his mental state and ethics. Many consider his performance a brilliant example of how to create suspense through dialogue and his powerful on-screen presence.

Paul Mescal – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

I just saw this movie and Paul Mescal is incredible! He plays a reimagined William Shakespeare, and it’s so moving – it focuses on the pain he went through after losing his son, and how that loss inspired one of his most famous plays. It’s not a flashy performance, but Mescal really gets inside Shakespeare’s head, showing us how he struggled with his work while also dealing with such personal grief. Honestly, it’s another amazing role for him, and it really solidifies him as one of the best actors playing these thoughtful, sensitive characters right now.

Jessie Buckley – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Jessie Buckley delivers a captivating performance as Agnes in this film adaptation of a beloved novel. She portrays a woman deeply connected to nature who is grieving the loss of her child, bringing a haunting and untamed energy to the role. Buckley powerfully conveys the raw emotions and instinctive feelings of a mother, and her performance is a key reason the story connects with audiences today.

Stellan Skarsgård – ‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)

I just saw the new Joachim Trier film, and Stellan Skarsgård is absolutely captivating. He plays a man coming back into his family’s life after years away, and he brings such a nuanced performance – you really feel both his regret and his genuine warmth. It’s a deeply moving domestic drama, really digging into the complicated ways families deal with their past. Skarsgård is phenomenal; he can communicate a lifetime of history with just a glance. Honestly, it’s one of the most powerful performances I’ve seen all year.

Renate Reinsve – ‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)

As a huge film fan, I was thrilled to see Renate Reinsve working again with the director who really put her on the map. And she absolutely delivers! She plays an actress who’s navigating the ups and downs of her career, all while dealing with her complicated relationship with her long-lost father. What really struck me was how perfectly she embodies the anxieties and vulnerabilities of people her age – it feels so authentic and moving. Honestly, she’s quickly become one of my favorite actors working today; she’s just so talented and can handle any role.

Timothée Chalamet – ‘Marty Supreme’ (2025)

Timothée Chalamet shines in a lively and funny period film, playing a competitive ping pong player. He fully commits to the physical comedy of the role, showing a different side of his talent while still bringing his characteristic depth. Chalamet convincingly embodies the world of mid-20th-century sports with a performance that’s both visually appealing and delightfully determined. It’s a role that demonstrates his willingness to experiment with new genres and prove his range as an actor.

Jacob Elordi – ‘Frankenstein’ (2025)

Jacob Elordi stars as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s stunning gothic film. He uses his tall frame and dedicated physical acting to portray a monster that is both frightening and heartbreaking. Despite heavy prosthetics, Elordi delivers a moving performance, highlighting the character’s isolation and desire for purpose. This role is a significant change from his typical romantic leads and proves his talent as a serious dramatic actor.

Rose Byrne – ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ (2025)

Rose Byrne gives what many are calling the best performance of her career in this unusual and moving drama. She plays a woman dealing with a deeply personal struggle, balancing dark humor with genuine sadness. Byrne makes her character relatable and keeps viewers captivated with her distinctive comedic flair. The film provides a platform for her to demonstrate her acting range within a story that doesn’t follow typical conventions.

Wagner Moura – ‘The Secret Agent’ (2025)

Wagner Moura is back in a Brazilian thriller, this time set during the country’s military dictatorship. He plays a mysterious technology specialist who finds himself tangled in a dangerous spy game as he tries to keep his family safe. Moura delivers a powerfully subtle performance, capturing the pervasive fear and anxiety of the time. Critics around the world have lauded his nuanced portrayal and his ability to make sense of the film’s complicated political story.

Michael Cera – ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ (2025)

As a big Wes Anderson fan, I was thrilled to see Michael Cera in his newest film! He really brings something special to this incredibly stylish spy story. He plays a central character, and the movie follows him on a wild, international adventure alongside a fantastic group of quirky characters. Cera feels completely at home in Anderson’s precise and imaginative world, but what I loved most was how he managed to ground the whole thing with a genuine, emotional performance. It’s a reminder that he’s brilliant at making even the most over-the-top stories feel real and relatable.

Amanda Seyfried – ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ (2025)

Amanda Seyfried plays the founder of the Shakers in a historical film about the beginnings of the religious group. She gives a powerful and committed performance as a woman convinced she’s destined to transform the world. Seyfried brilliantly portrays both the captivating personality and the contentious nature of this historical figure, creating a performance that feels both realistic and inspired. The role gives her a chance to shed light on a fascinating and often overlooked chapter of American history.

Jeremy Allen White – ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere’ (2025)

As a huge Springsteen fan, I was really curious about the new film with Jeremy Allen White playing The Boss. And honestly, he nails it. He doesn’t just do an impression; he really gets into the headspace of Bruce during the making of ‘Nebraska,’ that raw, lonely time when he was figuring out his sound. You can feel that intensity he’s known for from his TV work, but it’s channeled into showing us this really vulnerable, darker side of the artist – the stuff that ultimately made that album, and his career, so special.

Pamela Anderson – ‘The Naked Gun’ (2025)

Pamela Anderson is back in a big way, starring in the latest installment of a classic comedy series. She shines alongside Liam Neeson, proving she’s a natural at physical comedy with a perfectly straight face. Critics and audiences are buzzing about her confident and hilarious performance, which many are calling a fantastic comeback and one of the funniest roles of the year.

Joseph Quinn – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Joseph Quinn perfectly embodies Johnny Storm, bringing a lively energy and genuine charisma to the role. He plays the Human Torch as a spirited and adventurous young man figuring out how to control his amazing abilities. Quinn’s performance really captures the sense of excitement and enjoyment that makes superhero movies so great. He also has fantastic chemistry with his fellow actors, giving the film a bright and youthful feel.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach gives a powerful and moving performance as Ben Grimm in the new Marvel series. He skillfully portrays the character’s inner struggle – the sadness and strength of a man changed into a rocky being while still holding onto his human side. Moss-Bachrach adds real emotional depth to the role, going beyond just the impressive special effects and makeup. Many comic book fans have praised his performance, saying he’s the heart of the team.

Vanessa Kirby – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Vanessa Kirby’s portrayal of Sue Storm is intelligent and subtly powerful, making her a natural leader for the team. She convincingly balances the challenges of being both a scientist and a superhero, bringing both authority and understanding to the role. Kirby’s background in serious dramatic acting helps make the film’s fantastical science fiction feel realistic and relatable. Her performance solidifies her position as a key player in this new phase of the franchise.

Toby Wallace – ‘Last Days’ (2025)

Toby Wallace gives a captivating and realistic performance in this gripping survival thriller, where a man desperately tries to reach a remote island. He convincingly shows the character’s declining health and growing obsession, fully committing to the role. The film largely depends on Wallace’s acting to highlight the man’s loneliness and the perils of his surroundings, solidifying his reputation as a bold actor who embraces difficult and demanding parts in independent films.

Please share your thoughts on these breakout performances in the comments.

2025-12-24 08:50