Rotten Tomatoes unveils its first look at the SXSW 2025 lineup, spotlighting potential critical darlings and box office hits poised to dominate the year, from The Accountant 2 to the darkly comedic Death of a Unicorn.

SXSW 2025: The Films That Could Define the Year in Cinema

The South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival is renowned for launching groundbreaking films and TV shows into the cultural stratosphere. As we eagerly anticipate the 2025 edition, Rotten Tomatoes offers an exclusive scorecard, spotlighting the most anticipated movies and series that have garnered enough critical buzz to earn a Tomatometer score.

Which SXSW Films Are Already Generating Oscar Buzz?

SXSW isn't just a festival; it's a launchpad. Here are the films poised to make a splash, ranked by their Tomatometer scores:

1. The Studio (2025) - 100%

"A desperate studio head, hungry for celebrity approval, navigates the treacherous waters of Hollywood."

• Starring: Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Kathryn Hahn, Ike Barinholtz

2. Selena y Los Dinos (2025) - 92%

• Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.
• Directed By: Isabel Castro

3. The Accountant 2 (2025) - 86%

"Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal's chemistry elevates this action-comedy sequel."

• Critics Consensus: Improving on the original by leaning into Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal's buddy comedy chemistry, The Accountant 2 can safely be filed under a good time at the movies.
• Starring: Ben Affleck, Jon Bernthal, J.K. Simmons, Cynthia Addai-Robinson
• Directed By: Gavin O'Connor

4. Dead Lover (2025) - 80%

• Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.

A lonely gravedigger finds love, but fate has other plans.

• Starring: Grace Glowicki, Ben Petrie, Leah Doz, Lowen Morrow
• Directed By: Grace Glowicki

5. Another Simple Favor (2025) - 80%

• Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.

Stephanie and Emily reunite in Capri, Italy, for an extravagant adventure.

• Starring: Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Allison Janney, Henry Golding
• Directed By: Paul Feig

6. Death of a Unicorn (2025) - 70%

• Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.

A father and daughter's weekend trip takes a dark turn when they encounter a mythical creature.

• Starring: Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Will Poulter, Téa Leoni
• Directed By: Alex Scharfman

7. O'Dessa (2025) - 67%

• Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.

A farm girl journeys to a dangerous city in search of a family heirloom.

• Starring: Sadie Sink, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Murray Bartlett, Regina Hall
• Directed By: Geremy Jasper

Beyond the Tomatometer: What Other Stories Are Emerging from SXSW?

While the Tomatometer provides a valuable snapshot, SXSW is also about discovering hidden gems and emerging trends. Here's a glimpse of other stories making headlines:

• Robert Pattinson's Evolution: A look at Pattinson's career through the lens of the Tomatometer.
• Bong Joon Ho's Masterpieces: Ranking the films of the acclaimed director.
• The Rise of Women Directors: Celebrating the best women-directed movies of the 21st century.
• Must-See TV of 2025: New series to add to your watchlist.

Your SXSW 2025 Survival Guide: How to Stay Ahead of the Curve

SXSW is a whirlwind of screenings, panels, and parties. Here's how to make the most of it:

• Stay Tuned to Rotten Tomatoes: For up-to-the-minute reviews and analysis.
• Embrace the Unexpected: SXSW is known for its surprises, so be open to discovering new talent and unconventional films.
• Join the Conversation: Engage with fellow film enthusiasts on social media and share your thoughts on the festival's highlights.

SXSW 2025 promises to be a cinematic feast, offering a glimpse into the future of film and television. With this scorecard as your guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the festival and discover the next big thing.