Paramount Pictures has recently announced significant changes to its movie release schedule for 2025, reflecting both strategic planning and a response to an increasingly competitive box office. Among the most noteworthy developments is the remake of the classic film The Running Man directed by Edgar Wright and featuring Glen Powell in the lead role. This highly anticipated film is now set to debut on November 21, 2025, just prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. Importantly, it will face stiff competition, going head-to-head with Wicked: Part Two and the highly awaited film from Angel Studios, along with another major Warner Bros. event movie.
This change signifies Paramount’s confidence in The Running Man’s potential to draw audiences in a crowded market. The timing of its release suggests that the studio believes the film can capture the attention of both casual moviegoers and more dedicated fans looking for quality entertainment during the holiday season.
In addition to the adjustments to The Running Man’s premiere, Paramount is maneuvering its other films to maximize their chances during the awards season. The upcoming film, which previously had a scheduled release date of November 27, is now targeting a limited release on November 29, followed by a wider opening on December 13. This strategic move allows for optimal positioning within the event-heavy holiday window, which is crucial for films vying for accolades. The title, directed by Tim Fehlbaum and featuring a notable cast including Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro, depicts the tumultuous events surrounding the 1972 Munich Olympics.
Such a subject matter could resonate well with audiences and critics alike, potentially earning it a prestigious position during awards season, especially as it has already made its mark at international film festivals like Venice and Telluride.
Paramount’s slate also includes a fresh horror project, Vicious, which has moved up its release date to February 28, 2025. Initially pushed to August, this film is ready for the big screen and features a strong cast led by Dakota Fanning. The film’s logline hints at a nightmarish descent into chaos sparked by a mysterious late-night visitor. This decision to debut Vicious earlier than planned demonstrates Paramount’s eagerness to tap into the horror genre’s growing appeal, especially within the early months of the year when such films often thrive.
The studio is not holding back in introducing animation into its repertoire as well. Recently, its animated Smurfs musical was rescheduled for a summer 2025 release, indicating a pivot to family-friendly content during peak vacation periods. With a star-studded voice cast, including Rihanna and James Corden, this film aims to capture the hearts of younger audiences and families alike during the summer holiday.
Amidst the flurry of adjustments, it is evident that Paramount Pictures is positioning itself thoughtfully in an increasingly crowded market. From the strategic release dates of big titles to their careful planning for awards season hits and audience engagement, the studio’s newly refined calendar demonstrates a calculated approach that seeks to balance commercial viability with artistic ambition. With the film industry constantly evolving, Paramount’s proactive strategy could serve as a blueprint for other studios aiming to navigate the complex landscape of modern cinema.