As the film industry gears up for a new year, a fresh cohort of directors is ready to make waves in 2025. Following the recognition of filmmakers like Sean Baker and Chloé Zhao, who have previously garnered accolades for their innovative storytelling, Variety has unveiled its latest list of “Directors to Watch.” This list highlights a diverse array of emerging talents, showcasing their unique perspectives and the breadth of stories they intend to tell.
Filmmakers on this year’s list include directors from various backgrounds and genres, with several already presenting their work at prestigious film festivals. Two of these films, “My Father’s Shadow” and “Happy Birthday,” have been submitted for consideration in the Oscar international feature category, highlighting their global appeal.
Notable New Voices
One of the standout directors, Akinola Davies Jr., has made a significant impact with his feature debut, “My Father’s Shadow.” The film, which won a Camera d’Or special mention at the Cannes Film Festival and garnered 12 nominations at the British Independent Film Awards, tells the story of two boys navigating their relationship with their father during a pivotal day in Nigeria’s history—the 1993 elections. Davies emphasizes the importance of telling authentic stories from a Nigerian diaspora perspective, stating, “We think that’s quite important, because often, our stories are authored by people from other parts of the world.”
In another compelling narrative, Beth de Araújo presents “Josephine,” an autobiographical fiction film that explores childhood trauma through the eyes of an eight-year-old girl. With a cast including Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, the film is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, where it has been developed through the Sundance directors’ lab. De Araújo reflects on her experience, saying, “I would like to try my hand at bigger world-building,” indicating her ambition to expand her creative endeavors.
Expanding Horizons in Filmmaking
The list also features Sarah Goher, whose film “Happy Birthday” has been selected as Egypt’s entry for the international feature Oscar. This poignant tale, set in contemporary Cairo, examines class disparities through the friendship between a young maid and her employer’s daughter. Premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival, Goher’s work has received multiple accolades and is a testament to her extensive experience as a writer-producer, having collaborated on notable projects such as “Moon Knight.”
Meanwhile, Dave Green is set to release “Coyote vs. Acme,” a film that offers a humorous yet introspective take on the character of Wile E. Coyote. Despite the project facing hurdles, including a decision by the studio to take a tax write-off rather than release the film, Green remains optimistic about future endeavors. He expresses a desire to explore darker themes in upcoming projects, signaling his versatility as a filmmaker.
Other directors like Chandler Levack, whose film “Mile End Kicks” reflects on millennial culture, and Harry Lighton, who dives into the complexities of gay male BDSM culture in “Pillion,” further illustrate the rich tapestry of narratives emerging in the film landscape.
As 2025 unfolds, the industry looks forward to witnessing how these directors will shape the cinematic landscape, bringing fresh perspectives and stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. Their inclusion in Variety‘s list serves not only as recognition of their talent but also underscores the importance of diverse voices in filmmaking.
