The excitement around the new movie with jamie lee curtis continues to grow as the iconic actor prepares to headline not one but two major films arriving this year. Audiences in the United States will see her move seamlessly between heartfelt comedy and politically charged drama, showcasing the versatility that has defined her long career. This year marks a major moment for fans, as Curtis brings fresh energy to two very different stories that highlight her range and enduring influence in Hollywood.
Jamie Lee Curtis has long been known for her ability to jump between genres. From horror to family comedy to prestige drama, she’s built a career on authentic performances and unforgettable screen presence. In 2025, she takes on that challenge again with two new projects that will play to audiences of all ages. One film revives a beloved family franchise that shaped early-2000s pop culture, while the other places her in a thoughtful, character-driven political story from a respected filmmaker.
Both movies are positioned to be major releases for their studios, signaling a year where Curtis’s name is once again front and center in entertainment conversations.
A Major Return to Family Entertainment: “Freakier Friday”
One of the biggest stories of 2025’s movie slate is the revival of the wildly popular body-swap comedy that united Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan over 20 years ago. “Freakier Friday” brings the duo back to their roles, this time with a fresh generational focus.
The new film continues the world introduced in the original, but with new challenges and a deeper look at the characters’ lives. Anna, once the rebellious teen fans remember, is now a mother herself. That shift introduces fresh tension, humor, and opportunities for heartfelt moments as the next round of magical chaos begins.
A modern twist on a nostalgic favorite
“Freakier Friday” brings back the dynamic mother-daughter relationship that anchored the first film. Curtis’s return is central to the movie’s appeal. She plays Tess Coleman with the same blend of warmth, chaos, and comedic timing that made the original so memorable. Now, her character confronts modern parenting issues that add both relevance and humor.
Younger cast members join the story as new family members who get pulled into the magical mix-up. The film introduces multigenerational identity swapping, giving audiences a broader range of comedic possibilities. This allows Curtis to lean into physical humor, emotional beats, and quick-fire delivery that she has mastered over decades in the industry.
Why this sequel matters in 2025
Family movies continue to be essential for theaters, and studios have leaned on nostalgia-driven sequels to bring adults and kids together. “Freakier Friday” fits perfectly into that pattern. For parents who grew up with the original, this sequel is a chance to reintroduce the story to their own children.
Curtis’s presence ensures the movie honors what made the original special while updating it for today’s audiences. Her comedic instincts enrich the story, and early previews have highlighted her ability to play off both returning actors and younger co-stars. The film blends music, modern family struggles, and high-energy comedic chaos, a combination that’s likely to make it one of the most talked-about family releases of the year.
A Sharp Turn Toward Political Drama: “Ella McCay”
While one of Curtis’s major 2025 projects embraces humor and family storytelling, her other film takes a more grounded approach. “Ella McCay” is a political comedy-drama crafted by a filmmaker known for character-driven stories that blend heart, humor, and insight. Curtis plays a supporting but meaningful role that ties her character to the film’s central story about ambition, leadership, and family.
A character built for emotional impact
In “Ella McCay,” Curtis steps away from the physical comedy of her family film role and takes on a more subtle, emotionally layered character. The story centers on a young state leader who is beginning a challenging new chapter in both her political life and her personal relationships. Curtis’s character interacts with the main cast in ways that shape the film’s emotional direction, adding depth to the political themes.
The film blends sharp dialogue, real-time political stakes, and familial tensions. Curtis’s performance is designed to anchor specific moments in the story, giving it warmth and gravity. Her experience in both dramatic and comedic roles makes her a natural fit for a film that relies on both tones.
A powerhouse ensemble surrounding Curtis
“Ella McCay” pairs Curtis with a cast that includes longtime industry veterans and rising talents. This balance reflects the film’s message: generational shifts, mentorship, and the complexity of public life. Curtis’s scenes connect the emotional journeys of several characters, making her presence felt even in moments where she isn’t front and center.
The movie takes a grounded approach to political storytelling. It spotlights the personal sacrifices and emotional balancing acts required to lead a state while managing a complicated family. Instead of leaning into satire or heavy-handed commentary, the story focuses on relationships, responsibilities, and the challenges that define public service.
For U.S. audiences who enjoy smart, character-rich political stories, “Ella McCay” offers something both relevant and entertaining.
How These Two Films Showcase Curtis’s Range
Few performers can move effortlessly between genres the way Jamie Lee Curtis can. From the start of her career, she has blended drama, comedy, and action, making her one of the most adaptable and reliable stars in Hollywood. The two films she headlines this year reinforce that legacy.
Family film energy vs. dramatic intensity
“Freakier Friday” allows Curtis to show her comedic instincts at full power. She excels at physical comedy, quick reactions, and humorous misunderstandings—elements central to a body-swap storyline. Her timing helps keep the story lively while also grounding the characters in real emotion.
In contrast, “Ella McCay” requires a quieter, more controlled performance. Her character navigates the emotional side of political life, bringing an experienced presence to scenes that explore relationships, expectations, and responsibility. Curtis delivers empathy and nuance in a film driven by dialogue and interpersonal dynamics.
These two very different performances in the same year demonstrate why she remains a favorite among filmmakers and audiences.
What These Releases Mean for Moviegoers
For U.S. theaters, Curtis’s dual presence offers something rare: an actor who can draw families, adults, and older fans all within the same release season. Her name carries weight across generations, which helps studios build promotional campaigns around her star power.
For families
“Freakier Friday” provides a lighthearted, kid-friendly experience with recognizable faces and a story full of comedic surprises. It’s positioned to attract a wide audience, from longtime fans to new viewers discovering the franchise for the first time.
For adults
“Ella McCay” delivers a more mature tone, a rich ensemble, and a thoughtful story rooted in political and family dynamics. It appeals to viewers who enjoy grounded, character-focused films with emotional impact.
Having both movies available within the same year shows Curtis’s continuing ability to shape the cultural conversation. Her projects generate interest across social media, film circles, and general entertainment news, signaling strong engagement ahead of their releases.
Why Jamie Lee Curtis Remains a Cultural Force in Hollywood
Curtis has become a multigenerational figure. Younger audiences know her from recent blockbuster roles, while longtime fans remember her from decades of iconic performances. Her career longevity is tied to her willingness to take risks and reinvent herself while staying true to the values that shaped her acting journey.
In the context of 2025, her two major film releases reflect the industry’s ongoing trust in her ability to deliver compelling performances. Studios rely on her professionalism, charisma, and ability to connect with viewers of all ages. Audiences rely on her consistency, authenticity, and unique energy.
The projects coming out this year reaffirm her position not just as a movie star, but as a performer whose presence elevates every story she enters.
Looking Ahead
As these films approach their release dates, anticipation continues to grow. Families are looking forward to rediscovering a beloved storyline with modern twists, while fans of character-driven drama are eager to see Curtis in a political narrative that blends warmth and humor.
The new movie with jamie lee curtis anchors a year filled with exciting theatrical moments. With two strong films aimed at different audiences, Curtis is set to dominate conversations across movie blogs, entertainment broadcasts, and social platforms throughout 2025.