Willem Dafoe isn’t just an actor– he’s a genre of his own. With a face that can convey menace, mystery, and melancholy all at once, Dafoe is one of those rare talents who can effortlessly bounce between arthouse indies, superhero spectacles, and philosophical fever dreams. And the upcoming Willem Dafoe movie lineup? It’s giving range, risk, and a whole lot of Dafoe doing Dafoe things.
Whether he’s whispering wisdom to woodland creatures or scheming through stylized crime scenes, Willem Dafoe upcoming movies prove he’s not slowing down– he’s just getting weirder (and better). Here’s everything we know so far about what’s coming next for cinema’s most compelling chameleon.
Upcoming Willem Dafoe Movies
From fantasy to unnerving thrillers, Dafoe’s upcoming slate has something for everyone. Each role showcases a different shade of his ever-evolving talent, blending bold choices with unexpected emotional depth. The upcoming Willem Dafoe movies prove this icon is full of cinematic surprises. Read on and find out details about the upcoming projects.
The Legend Of Ochi (2025)

A whimsical fantasy with a mysterious twist? Sign us up. In The Legend of Ochi, Dafoe plays Maxim, a character who’s likely more than he seems in this tale of a young girl who escapes her home and befriends creatures called Ochi. The film is said to explore themes of communication, nature, and magical realism.
According to IMDb, this fantasy adventure is scheduled for 2025 and could mark one of Dafoe’s most enchanting performances yet.
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The Phoenician Scheme (2025)
Ready for a dose of Wes Anderson weirdness? Dafoe is reuniting with the eccentric auteur for The Phoenician Scheme, a crime thriller where he plays a character named Knave. While the details are still hush-hush, the title alone sounds like it belongs in a pastel colored heist involving pyramids, poetry, and polite betrayal.
As per IMDb, the film is slated for May 30, 2025, and continues the long-standing creative collaboration between Anderson and Dafoe, which has given us cinematic gems time and again.
The Birthday Party (2025)

Drama? Intrigue? Existential dread? All signs point to yes. In The Birthday Party, Dafoe stars as Marcos Timoleon, a character whose name already feels like it belongs in a psychological stage play.
The movie is currently in post-production, according to IMDb. With a title that hints at celebrations gone awry and Dafoe at the center, this film promises introspection, tension and probably a few moments that make you rethink birthday balloons.
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Late Fame (TBA)
Directed by Kent Jones, Late Fame is another mysterious entry in Dafoe’s ever-expanding list of thought-provoking dramas. The project is in post-production, though Dafoe’s exact role hasn’t been disclosed.
Per IMDb, the film’s title and director suggest we’re in for a story that navigates the strange intersections of celebrity, aging, and the ghosts of creativity past– perfect terrain for Dafoe to explore with nuance.
The Man In My Basement

Creepy title? Check. Dafoe in the basement? Double check. In The Man in My Basement, Dafoe plays Anniston Bennet and also serves as executive producer. This thriller promises a claustrophobic, psychological experience likely packed with moral ambiguity and a creeping sense of dread.
According to IMDb, Dafoe’s involvement both in front of and behind the camera signals his passion for this eerie, potentially mind-bending tale. It’s the kind of film where you won’t know whether to be terrified, fascinated, or both.
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Conclusion
The upcoming Willem Dafoe movie lineup is a masterclass in eclectic choices and artistic ambition. From fantastical creatures to philosophical thrillers, Dafoe continues to defy genre constraints and audience expectations. Whether he’s lurking in the shadows or shining in the spotlight, one thing’s certain: Dafoe never phones it in.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or just now catching on with the Dafoe-aissance, there’s never been a better time to dive into his cinematic universe. Strange? Yes. Surprising? Always. Worth watching? Absolutely.
FAQs
1. What is Willem Dafoe’s next movie?
His next confirmed release is The Legend of Ochi (2025), a fantasy adventure where he plays Maxim.
2. Is Willem Dafoe working with Wes Anderson again?
Yes! He’s set to appear in The Phoenician Scheme, a crime thriller directed by Wes Anderson.
3. What genres are covered in the upcoming Willem Dafoe movies?
His upcoming films span fantasy, drama, crime, and thriller—he’s truly covering all cinematic bases.
4. Is Willem Dafoe producing any upcoming films?
Yes, he’s also executive producing The Man in My Basement, in which he stars as Anniston Bennet.

Vanshika Gupta is a passionate storyteller and a content writer, who exactly knows how to engage people with her thoughts and narratives. Born and raised in Jammu, developed an early love for writing when she was in her college years.