Zach Cregger’s ‘Weapons’ Earns Spot Among Horror Classics Like ‘Get Out’ and ‘Silence of the Lambs’ with Unique Achievement
The 2025 mystery horror film Weapons is written, produced, and directed by Zach Cregger. The movie stars Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Cary Christopher, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams, Benedict Wong, and Amy Madigan.
The story follows the strange disappearance of seventeen children from the same classroom, who vanish on the same night, seemingly taken by an unseen force.
Weapons first premiered in the Philippines on August 6, 2025, before its U.S. release on August 8, 2025, through Warner Bros. Pictures. It quickly gained praise from critics and has earned $5.7 million worldwide.
The film made an impressive $5.7 million during preview screenings alone, setting a new record for the highest preview earnings for a horror film in 2025, beating out Coogler’s Sinners. It also debuted with an A- grade on CinemaScore, placing it among the top-rated horror movies like Get Out and Silence of the Lambs.
On Rotten Tomatoes, Weapons holds a 96% approval rating based on 207 reviews, with the site calling it “an expertly crafted yarn of terrifying mystery and thrilling intrigue,” and praising it as a strong second film that confirms Cregger’s talent in horror. Metacritic gave the film a score of 81 out of 100, signaling universal acclaim. Audience reactions were equally positive, with CinemaScore’s average grade being an A−.
Critics loved how Weapons balanced tension and mystery throughout the film. They appreciated how the story kept viewers guessing without tying up every detail too neatly, which is a departure from many recent horror movies. The film’s blend of dark humor and intense suspense was highlighted as a major strength. Many praised the way the movie tackles heavy themes like grief and community blame in a bold and thought-provoking way.
Are you watching?#WeaponsMovie – only in theaters August 8. pic.twitter.com/N5rBjpS4JE
— New Line Cinema (@newlinecinema) June 23, 2025
Reviewers also noted the film’s strong visuals and creative cinematography, which helped build an eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The last 20 minutes, filled with graphic and well-choreographed violence, were called a powerful and cathartic conclusion. While some found the ending bittersweet and dark, others saw it as a unique, twisted tale that leaves a lasting impression.
The performances of the cast, especially Brolin and Garner, were recognized for being layered and emotionally complex. Even in a less enthusiastic review, the acting and the film’s striking visuals were praised.
Overall, Weapons has been celebrated for its smart writing, strong direction, and its ability to blend horror with deep emotional and social themes. It has quickly become one of the most talked-about horror films of the year, earning its place alongside genre classics.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!
