Weapons (2025) Spoiler Free Movie Review
The most harmless things can hurt you. Weapons is a 2025 American mystery horror film written, produced, and directed by Zach Cregger. The film was released on August 8, 2025 in the United States by Warner Bros. Pictures.
When all but one child from the same classroom mysteriously vanish on the same night at exactly the same time, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.
Film synopsis
The cast includes Josh Brolin as Archer Graff, Julia Garner as Justine Gandy, Cary Christopher as Alex Lilly, Alden Ehrenreich as Paul Morgan, Austin Abrams as James, Benedict Wong as Andrew Marcus, Amy Madigan as Gladys Lilly, Toby Huss as Ed Locke, June Diane Raphael as Donna Morgan, Whitmer Thomas as Mr. Lilly, Callie Schuttera as Mrs. Lilly, Clayton Farris as Terry Marcus, Luke Speakman as Matthew Graff, and Scarlett Sher as the child narrator.
With Weapons Zach Cregger cements his place as one of the most exciting new voices in horror. Visually captivating and structurally daring, the film unfolds through a non-linear narrative, weaving together multiple points of view that slowly converge into one unsettling whole. It’s a story that rewards patience and while there’re moments of horror scattered throughout it, the third act is where everything truly explodes.
The pacing is deliberate, taking its time to develop characters and build up the tension, allowing the audience to become invested before pulling the rug out. Performances are strong across the board, with Julia Garner fully embodying her role, and the jumpscares, when they come, are effective and earned. The story feels fresh, ambitious, and unafraid to push boundaries, delivering those “WTF” moments that stick with you.
Tonally, Cregger balances dread with the occasional comedic beat, even sneaking in a playful touch near the end. The tone shift isn’t as jarring as in Barbarian (2022), but it still gives the film a unique flavor. This is elevated horror done right without being pretentious, original without feeling alienating. And yes, for those keeping score, Justin Long makes it through alive this time.
If there’s one drawback, it’s the reveal of who and what is behind it. After such a meticulous buildup, the final explanation feels a bit anticlimactic and not as impactful as the film’s overall execution deserved. Still, Weapons remains a gripping and unpredictable ride that confirms Cregger’s bright future in the genre.
Weapons is now available in theaters.