IMDb 2025 Movie Rankings Show Theatrical Releases Dominate Despite Streaming Surge

IMDb has revealed its most popular movies of 2025. The list is dominated by major theatrical blockbusters. Warner Bros. films like “Superman” and “Sinners” lead the rankings. This trend underscores a strong public preference for the cinema experience.

The data arrives as streaming giant Netflix moves to acquire Warner Bros. The industry is watching for potential shifts in film distribution. The popularity of these films suggests audiences still value the big screen.

Theatrical Hits Top IMDb’s Annual List

Warner Bros. had an exceptional year. Its films claimed the top three spots on IMDb’s list. “Superman” was the most popular movie of 2025. “Weapons” and “Sinners” followed closely behind.

The full top ten includes major studio tentpoles. “Jurassic World: Rebirth” and “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” made the list. Only two Netflix originals, including “Frankenstein,” cracked the ranking. Notably, “Frankenstein” also had a theatrical release.

This data is significant. It shows a clear link between box office success and online engagement. Movies that draw crowds to theaters also generate the most buzz on platforms like IMDb. According to industry analysts, a theatrical release creates cultural momentum that streaming often cannot match.

Netflix’s Plans for Warner Bros. Theatrical Strategy

Netflix‘s acquisition of Warner Bros. is pending. The streaming service’s comments on theatrical windows have caused concern. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos has previously called the exclusive theatrical model “outdated.”

However, Netflix has recently offered reassurances. The company stated it will continue releasing Warner Bros. films in theaters. Its main issue is with long exclusivity windows before streaming. Netflix plans to shorten the time films spend exclusively in cinemas.

This stance creates a clear tension. The IMDb data proves audiences are actively seeking out theatrical experiences. Industry reports from Variety indicate that shortening windows could undermine the very model driving a film’s popularity. The future of major studio releases remains uncertain as the deal progresses.

The latest IMDb rankings deliver a powerful message. Theatrical releases continue to drive audience interest and cultural conversation in 2025. The sustained popularity of cinema-first films presents a key challenge for streaming-led business models moving forward.

Info at your fingertips

What is IMDb’s Most Popular Movies list based on?

It is based on the actual page views of millions of IMDb users. This data reflects genuine audience interest and search behavior throughout the year.

How many streaming-only films were in the top ten?

Only two films in the top ten were straight-to-streaming releases. Both were from Netflix, with one having also received a theatrical run.

What does this mean for Netflix buying Warner Bros.?

It highlights a potential conflict. Netflix prefers shorter theatrical windows, but the data shows that exclusive theatrical runs strongly drive a film’s long-term popularity and audience engagement.

Which studio had the most films on the list?

Warner Bros. dominated the rankings. Its films took the top three positions and several others in the top ten, reflecting its powerful 2025 slate.

Why is the theatrical window important?

A theatrical window creates a focused, cultural event. It drives word-of-mouth, media coverage, and builds anticipation that fuels later viewership on streaming platforms.