The Rise Of Maika Monroe: 7 Must-See Upcoming Projects That Cement Her 'Scream Queen' Status (Updated December 2025)

Maika Monroe has officially cemented her status as Hollywood's most compelling 'Scream Queen,' transitioning from a competitive kiteboarder to a leading force in modern horror and thriller cinema. Her career, marked by a knack for choosing unsettling, high-concept roles like in It Follows, has exploded in recent years, making her one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry right now.

As of December 12, 2025, the California-born star is not slowing down. Following the critical and commercial success of her 2024 horror film Longlegs, Monroe has a stacked slate of new and upcoming movies for 2025 and 2026, ranging from highly anticipated horror sequels to major literary adaptations and indie thrillers, proving her versatile talent extends far beyond the genre that made her famous.

Maika Monroe: A Complete Profile and Biography

Before becoming a staple of the horror genre, Maika Monroe led a fascinating life that set her apart from many of her Hollywood peers. Her journey from professional athlete to critically acclaimed actress is a testament to her dedication and unique perspective on performance.

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• Full Name: Dillon Monroe Buckley
• Date of Birth: May 29, 1993
• Birthplace: Santa Barbara, California, United States
• Initial Career: Professional Freestyle Kiteboarder
• Breakthrough Role: It Follows (2014)
• Genre Focus: Predominantly horror and thriller films
• Notable 2024 Film: Longlegs
• Industry Nickname: Scream Queen

Born Dillon Monroe Buckley, the actress adopted her middle name, Maika, for her professional career. Her dedication to sports was intense; she moved to Cabarete in the Dominican Republic at age 17 to train and compete professionally in freestyle kiteboarding. This background in a highly disciplined and physically demanding sport is often credited with giving her a grounded, intense presence on screen.

The Reign of the New Scream Queen: From 'It Follows' to 'Longlegs'

Maika Monroe has carved out a unique space in modern cinema, specializing in roles that require a blend of vulnerability, intelligence, and sheer terror. Her reputation as a "Scream Queen" is well-earned, but her performances are often praised for being more nuanced than the typical genre fare.

The film that first brought Maika Monroe to international attention was the 2014 psychological horror masterpiece, It Follows. Her portrayal of Jamie Height, a young woman pursued by a supernatural entity, was unsettling and raw, setting a new standard for horror protagonists.

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A decade later, her status was significantly elevated with the release of the 2024 horror film Longlegs. In this unsettling thriller, Monroe tackled a complex role that further demonstrated her ability to anchor a terrifying narrative. The success of Longlegs solidified her position as the "horror queen of 2024," leading to a flurry of new project announcements.

Monroe’s appeal in the genre lies in her ability to convey genuine dread and paranoia. She often plays characters who are forced to confront existential threats, making the horror feel less about jump scares and more about psychological disintegration. This thematic consistency has built a strong topical authority around her name within the horror and thriller communities.

Beyond horror, Monroe has also shown her range in films like The Guest and Independence Day: Resurgence, proving she can handle action and dark comedy with equal skill. However, it is her work in the unnerving, slow-burn thriller space that continues to define her career trajectory.

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Maika Monroe’s Stacked Slate: The Most Anticipated Films of 2025 and 2026

The next two years are shaping up to be the busiest of Maika Monroe’s career, with several high-profile projects already announced and in production. These upcoming roles highlight her versatility and the industry's confidence in her star power, ensuring she remains a fixture in both independent and mainstream cinema.

1. 'They Follow' (The Highly-Anticipated Sequel)

Perhaps the most talked-about upcoming project is They Follow, the sequel to her breakout hit, It Follows. Monroe has confirmed her involvement and has even provided updates on the film’s progress. Rumors suggest that filming for the sequel could begin as early as "next year," likely 2026, much to the excitement of horror fans. This return to the iconic role of Jamie is expected to be a major cinematic event.

2. '100 Nights of Hero' (2025)

Scheduled for a 2025 release, 100 Nights of Hero is a fantasy romance movie that sees Maika Monroe star alongside Nicholas Galitzine and the musician Charli XCX. The film, which has already generated buzz, is a significant departure from her usual horror fare, showcasing her ability to lead a cast in a completely different genre. A review of the film was already published in early December 2025, confirming its imminent release.

3. 'The Hand That Rocks the Cradle' (2025 Remake)

Monroe is set to star in a loose remake of the classic 1992 psychological thriller, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. The 2025 film will also feature Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Raúl Castillo, and Martin Starr. This project keeps her firmly in the thriller genre but offers a chance to reinterpret a beloved, suspenseful story for a modern audience.

4. 'Reminders of Him' (Colleen Hoover Adaptation)

In a move that will attract a massive new audience, Maika Monroe has been cast in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s popular novel, Reminders of Him. The film is currently slated for a 2026 release. Starring in a major adaptation of a 'BookTok' phenomenon like a Colleen Hoover novel demonstrates her growing mainstream appeal and her ability to anchor a dramatic, emotional story.

5. 'Brides' (New Thriller)

Adding another high-concept thriller to her resume, Monroe will star in Brides, a new project directed by Chloe Okuno. Okuno is known for her work in the horror/thriller space, making this collaboration a natural fit for Monroe. Details are still emerging, but the project is already marked as one of the most anticipated films of 2025.

6. New, Unannounced Horror Project

Following her success in Longlegs, Maika Monroe was announced to have been cast in yet another unnamed horror project, further solidifying her status as the genre’s leading lady. This continuous stream of horror roles confirms that directors and studios view her as the go-to actress for compelling, intelligent genre pictures.

7. Continued Focus on Independent Cinema

While she takes on major studio projects, Monroe has consistently supported independent cinema, often choosing roles in smaller, more artistic films. This commitment to diverse projects ensures that her filmography remains fresh and critically respected, allowing her to balance commercial success with artistic integrity. Her diverse upcoming slate, from the fantasy of 100 Nights of Hero to the suspense of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, showcases her commitment to challenging and varied roles.

Maika Monroe's career trajectory is a masterclass in strategic role selection. By alternating between franchise horror, high-concept thrillers, and major literary adaptations, she has ensured her continued relevance and appeal across multiple demographics. Her work in 2024 and the extensive list of projects lined up for 2025 and 2026 confirm that the 'Scream Queen' is now simply one of Hollywood's most exciting and bankable stars.