The countdown is on for Anniversary, a psychological thriller that promises edge-of-your-seat tension and timely social commentary. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jan Komasa and starring Hollywood veterans Diane Lane and Kyle Chandler alongside rising stars Dylan O'Brien and Phoebe Dynevor, the film is scheduled to release in US cinemas on October 29, 2025, just in time for Halloween.
An Original Psychological Thriller Shaking Up the Genre
Unlike many films in 2025, Anniversary is not a remake or adaptation. It is a fresh, original screenplay by first-time screenwriter Lori Rosene-Gambino, developed in collaboration with Jan Komasa. This originality makes it a standout psychological thriller in a movie landscape dominated by sequels and adaptations.
Plot Overview: A Family Celebration Turns into a Political Drama
The story focuses on Ellen Taylor (Diane Lane) and her husband Paul (Kyle Chandler) as they gather with their family to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. The reunion takes a dark and tense turn when their son Josh (Dylan O'Brien) introduces his new girlfriend Liz Nettles (Phoebe Dynevor), who happens to be a former student of Ellen's with radical ideas and connections to a political movement called 'The Change'.
The film explores themes of loyalty, ideology, and fractured trust as personal drama becomes a microcosm for national social divisions. Diane Lane describes the film as holding 'a mirror to our national identity crisis through the lens of one family,' making it a gripping reflection of current societal tensions.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Intensity and Depth to 'Anniversary'
With Diane Lane leading as the matriarch confronting old wounds and Kyle Chandler as the stabilizing patriarch, the cast delivers compelling performances. Dylan O'Brien portrays a son caught between family loyalty and love, while Phoebe Dynevor's mysterious Liz introduces tension and intrigue. Supporting actors including Zoey Deutch and Madeline Brewer add further emotional layers to this intense psychological thriller.
Direction and Production: Jan Komasa's Signature Style
Polish director Jan Komasa, known for award-nominated films, brings his style of blending intimate character drama with broader social themes. Filmed in Dublin, Ireland, during the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes of 2023, the production continued thanks to special exemptions. Komasa's vision shapes Anniversary into a thought-provoking thriller with dystopian undertones.
Early Reactions and Trailer Premiere
The exclusive trailer, premiered via People, features a haunting cover of Crowded House's 'Don't Dream It's Over' paired with tense family confrontations. Key scenes include Ellen accusing Liz of dangerous ideology and Josh asking his mother to 'pretend to be happy'. Early reactions describe the film as 'gripping' and socially resonant, praising its timely exploration of divisive societal issues.
Release Date and Distribution
Anniversary is set for a US theatrical release on October 29, 2025, perfectly positioned for the Halloween thriller season. While international distribution details are yet to be confirmed, the film's top-tier cast and director have generated significant global interest, suggesting wider releases are forthcoming.
