In this article
Dylan Cole
4/16/2025*3 min read
Below is a selection of highly anticipated films expected to hit DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in 2025, based on studio announcements and release trends:
Action Blockbusters
"Avatar 3" (Disney): Following the success of its predecessors, the third installment of the Avatar series is slated for a late 2025 release. The Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray editions will include behind-the-scenes footage, visual effects breakdowns, and Dolby Atmos audio.
"Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning" (Paramount Pictures): The next chapter in Tom Cruise’s action-packed franchise. The 4K Blu-ray will feature HDR10+ and DTS:X audio for a theater-like experience.
Animated and Family Films
"Zootopia 2" (Disney): This eagerly awaited animated sequel will be available on Blu-ray with bonus features like behind-the-scenes clips and new songs, making it a perfect pick for families.
"The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2" (Universal Pictures): The follow-up to the hit animated film, expected to release on Blu-ray and 4K with vibrant visuals and immersive sound.
Restored Classics
"The Godfather Trilogy" (Paramount Pictures): Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic trilogy will be re-released on 4K Blu-ray with a newly restored version, including interviews with the director and cast.
"Blade Runner" (Warner Bros.): The Final Cut of this sci-fi masterpiece will be reissued with enhanced visuals and Dolby Atmos audio.
Horror and Thriller
"Smile 2" (Paramount Pictures): Building on the success of the first film, this horror sequel’s Blu-ray will include deleted scenes and director commentary.
"M3GAN 2.0" (Universal Pictures): The AI-themed horror hit continues, with the 4K Blu-ray offering interactive bonus features.
Trends in DVD-Blu-ray Releases for 2025
Rise of 4K Ultra HD
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray is becoming the gold standard, thanks to its superior detail and High Dynamic Range (HDR) support. Upcoming titles like Avatar 3 and Mission: Impossible will leverage this technology to deliver stunningly realistic visuals.
Collector’s Edition Releases
Limited Collector’s Edition sets are increasingly popular among enthusiasts. These often include art books, posters, or character models. For example, the Collector’s Edition of The Godfather Trilogy is expected to feature a book detailing the filmmaking process.
Restored Film Resurgence
Companies like Criterion and Arrow Video are revitalizing classic films, from Akira Kurosawa’s masterpieces to 1980s horror. These restorations enhance image quality and include extras like director and critic commentaries.
Benefits of Buying DVDs and Blu-rays
Despite the dominance of streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+, DVDs and Blu-rays offer unique advantages:
Superior Image and Sound Quality: Blu-rays deliver unmatched visuals and audio compared to streaming, with uncompressed formats like Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD Master Audio.
Permanent Ownership: Unlike streaming services that may remove content, physical discs ensure lifelong access.
Bonus Content: Blu-rays often include exclusive features like behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and commentaries, enriching the viewing experience.