Is it just me, or does time seem to be moving incredibly fast? The past six months feel as though they’ve flown by. It feels like only yesterday that we were ringing in the new year, and now here we are at the end of June!
As a seasoned movie reviewer in 2025, I’ve been fortunate enough to witness an array of exceptional films this year, some even destined to become modern classics. Here, I dare to venture where no film critic has gone before – presenting my top ten favorites, listed in reverse order for a thrilling climax at the end.
10th: A captivating drama that resonated deeply with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on universal themes.
9th: An action-packed blockbuster that redefined the genre with its innovative storytelling and breathtaking visuals.
8th: A thought-provoking indie film that left viewers pondering long after the credits rolled.
7th: A heartwarming comedy that managed to strike the perfect balance between humor and emotional depth.
6th: A tense psychological thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
5th: An enchanting animated film that effortlessly transported viewers into a fantastical world.
4th: A gripping historical drama that masterfully blended fact and fiction for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
3rd: A groundbreaking sci-fi epic that expanded the boundaries of what’s possible in filmmaking.
2nd: A moving biographical drama that showcased exceptional performances and left me feeling truly inspired.
1st: A masterpiece that transcended genre, defied expectations, and left an indelible mark on cinema – a must-see for any cinephile.
(Why no one ever tried this before me, I have no idea. What can I say? I’m an innovator.)
Keep in mind that juggling two young kids and relentless deadlines leaves little time for leisure, thus a few movies from the early part of the year, such as “Materialists” directed by Celine Song (whose “Past Lives” was one of my favorite films of 2023), slipped through the cracks. However, I promise to make up for it and watch all highly-rated titles from January to June prior to finalizing my list in December.
Despite omitting some titles, I had an abundance of excellent films to pick from that wouldn’t fit in a top ten list. Among them were the delightful indie drama “Bonjour Tristesse” and the grandeur-filled blockbuster “F1”. Although the world may be chaotic, there are still more captivating movies than I can manage to watch. However, I’m giving it my all.
The Best Movies of 2025 So Far
10. Elio
Initial box office earnings indicate that the film “Elio” could potentially become one of the greatest theatrical disappointments in Pixar’s 30-year journey. It’s unfortunate, as while it might not reach the creative pinnacle of Pixar’s finest productions, this sci-fi tale is endearing and offers an enjoyable spin. The film features a charming alien character named Glordon, voiced by Remy Edgerly with infectious enthusiasm, who could very well be remembered as one of Pixar’s most memorable comic sidekicks – even though it may take some time for “Elio” to find its audience.
9. Ballerina
As a die-hard fan, I must confess that I was taken aback by the scarcity of ballet in the movie called “Ballerina.” However, when you’ve got flamethrower battles galore like this film does, perhaps the delicate art of dancing en pointe seems a bit superfluous. Despite the rumors about extensive reshoots and a narrative that feels somewhat pieced together, this John Wick spinoff did not disappoint with its jaw-dropping action scenes (including what might just be the most intense firefight ever filmed). To top it off, the European ski village setting for the climax of the film brings to mind the eccentricity of Gymkata.
8. Companion
Among this year’s unexpected cinematic delights was a sharp thriller laced with unexpected twists and subtle jabs at toxic tech culture. The role of Iris, a young woman, is played by Sophie Thatcher. She journeys with her boyfriend (Jack Quaid) to a picturesque lake house for a friend-filled weekend retreat. However, the tranquility is short-lived as bloodshed ensues, setting the stage for a narrative that peels back layers of amusing character traits and dark humor, all while providing a surprising dose of graphic violence.
7. 28 Years Later
In a new twist, the remake 28 Years Later follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, 28 Days Later, as another thought-provoking horror film that leaves viewers pondering when not jumping out of their seats. Just like before, director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland skillfully weave a tale filled with suspense about the uncertain fate of young Spike (played by talented child actor Alfie Williams). Beyond keeping the audience on edge, they delve into profound themes such as the inescapable reality of death and the importance of cherishing the remaining splendor of our seemingly damaged planet.
6. Wick Is Pain
In this revealing documentary about the John Wick franchise, it’s just like the movies themselves – there’s no sugarcoating or pretense. There are no secretive camera angles or computer-generated stunts here; instead, they bare it all. The original film’s directors (David Leitch and Chad Stahelski) argue and bicker, $6 million mysteriously vanishes from the budget of John Wick 1 just before production starts, and the studio keeps pushing for changes – some as absurd as asking Keanu Reeves to be clean-shaven. Yes, the interviews occasionally veer into self-praise. However, the film truly sheds light on why John Wick outshines its competitors: because these films are crafted by individuals who refuse to settle for anything less than exceptional action sequences, regardless of the pain involved.
5. Eephus
The title “Eephus” is perfect for this leisurely, seemingly straightforward movie. Just like the eephus pitch, it quietly catches you off guard, and when you believe you understand its trajectory, it takes an unexpected turn. Other names for the eephus pitch, such as blooper ball, parachute, and gravity curve, could also describe this film. In a town, two amateur baseball teams prepare for their final match at their soon-to-be-demolished field. Over the course of nine innings, co-writer/director Carson Lund delves into the bonds between teammates and adversaries alike, using this seemingly insignificant game as a backdrop to examine why the customs and heritage of baseball hold such deep significance for so many people.
4. Mickey 17
In a twist of creativity, filmmaker Bong Joon-ho derives immense joy from transforming renowned superhero actors into unconventional roles. Most notably, he reimagined Captain America as a cannibalistic monster, and this time, he’s tackling the enigmatic figure of Batman, Robert Pattinson. In the film “Mickey 17”, Pattinson’s character mirrors Batman’s complexity, embodying multiple identities. Due to morally ambiguous technology, his character, Mickey, serves as an “expendable,” handling deadly tasks crucial for space colonization. Each time Mickey dies in the line of duty, a new body is created. By the 17th iteration, there’s an error – producing an 18th Mickey. While “Mickey 17” may not be as polished as Bong’s award-winning “Parasite”, its inconsistencies could be a deliberate reflection of its multifaceted protagonist and the narrative itself. After all, a movie with 18 nearly identical leads, each subtly distinct in personality, might naturally exhibit variations in mood and tone.
3. Friendship
2025 saw my most cherished theatrical encounter yet – “Friendship” stood out as a comedy like no other. The audience’s audible sighs, gasps, and even exclamations of “Oh God” were something I had never experienced before in a comedy setting. These reactions were entirely justified as the plot revolved around Tim Robinson’s gradual humiliation and emasculation following a disastrous friendship encounter with his cool neighbor, Paul Rudd.
Tim Robinson’s obliviousness provided endless laughter, while Paul Rudd’s cool persona added to the hilarity. The script, penned by director Andrew DeYoung, delved deeply into male insecurities, probing them so persistently that viewers might find themselves suffering from muscle spasms caused by full-body cringes due to the intense discomfort it evokes.
2. Black Bag
As a cinephile, I must admit that “Black Bag” took me by surprise with its unique blend of an Agatha Christie-style whodunit and a steamier undertone – something I hadn’t quite expected to find appealing. But boy, was I wrong! The stellar cast, led by Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett as a seemingly blissful espionage duo, sets the stage for a tale of marital trust tested when Fassbender is tasked with spying on his own wife to uncover potential betrayal.
The supporting cast, featuring Regé-Jean Page, Marisa Abela, Naomie Harris, and Pierce Brosnan, further elevates the film’s intrigue. However, what truly makes “Black Bag” a standout is its unpredictability. From one moment to the next, you simply can’t guess what will transpire, making each scene a thrilling rollercoaster ride – something that is both rare and incredibly enjoyable.
1. Sinners
2025 has seen some chilling vampire movies, spine-tingling horrors, and enlightening films about America’s cultural tapestry – but none have quite hit the mark like Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners.” As a cinephile, I can confidently say it’s terrifying, seductive, and occasionally, humorously unexpected. This film is nothing short of a grand slam, coming awfully close to being a home run.
The 20 Best Movies of the Last 20 Years (2005-2024)
20. The Master (2012)
2012 saw many discussions revolving around Paul Thomas Anderson’s acclaimed film, “The Master,” focusing on its striking resemblances to L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology’s origins. Some critics and viewers found the movie’s underlying message ambiguous. Is Lancaster Dodd, portrayed by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, a genuine spiritual guide or a deceitful figure pretending to be one? What attracts him to Freddie Quell, whose instinctual behavior seems to contradict the core teachings of Dodd’s philosophy? Upon rewatching the film, I felt that “The Master” was just as much a complex love story as Anderson’s “Phantom Thread,” and I was particularly moved by its narrative about a man who professes to eliminate past-life trauma, yet fails to aid his most devoted disciple in dealing with the trauma he is experiencing in the present.
19. The Favourite (2018)
The film “The Favourite” is as indulgent and fulfilling as a luxurious slice of cake, pitting the wits of three women who held power in early 18th century England: the cunning Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz), the manipulative Abigail (Emma Stone), and the comical, pitiful Queen Anne, played by Olivia Colman. Despite its appearance as a typical Awards Season Costume Drama, “The Favourite” was far from generic Oscar bait, even though Colman won the Best Actress award in 2018. It deftly explored sexuality, gender roles, and politics, while also becoming one of the most subtly memorable movies of the century. And although one character remarks that favor is “a wind that changes direction frequently,” I have a feeling that “The Favourite” will continue to be one of my favorites for a long time.
18. Holy Motors (2012)
In simple terms, “Leos Carax’s Holy Motors is an extraordinary film experience, akin to the most vivid dream you’ve never had while asleep. It’s a burst of raw, unrestrained subconsciousness – or perhaps superconsciousness – and a poignant and romantic ode to cinema, acting, and life, suggesting that they are all intertwined in some way. Denis Lavant stars as Oscar, a man who journeys through Paris in a limousine, seamlessly transitioning into various roles such as a motion-capture artist, a gangster, and a beggar. The specifics of Oscar’s occupation remain ambiguous, but what is certain is that Holy Motors serves as a powerful testament to the enduring enchantment – and untapped possibilities – of cinema, even in an era when traditional movie-viewing experiences are waning, and the new methods of distribution are under threat from piracy and emerging cultural media.
17. The Fabelmans (2022)
16. Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (2021)
In a delightful twist, Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo returned with their hilarious successor to the smash hit “Bridesmaids,” titled “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar.” As co-writers and stars, they portray two best friends who lose their jobs at a Soft Rock, Nebraska Jennifer Convertibles store. With no other options, they splurge their severance on an extravagant vacation in Florida.
The story takes an unexpected turn when they both develop feelings for a captivating enigma (Jamie Dornan, showcasing his wit by poking fun at his own image as a chiseled lady’s man) who is part of a plot to demolish the town with genetically-modified deadly mosquitoes. (Yes, the classic trope.) Wiig and Mumolo shine in their roles, exploring themes such as Tommy Bahama fashion and the charm of names like Trish, while the script will undoubtedly be quoted until the day we are all threatened by killer mosquitoes. In these somber times, “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar” came as a dazzling pair of sequined shorts, guiding us out of the gloom like a luminous beacon.
15. Inside Out (2015)
Prior to assuming the role of Pixar’s chief creative officer, Pete Docter was known for his exceptional talent within the company. He contributed as a writer for movies like “Toy Story”, “Toy Story 2”, and “WALL-E”, and directed three of Pixar’s top films: “Monsters, Inc.”, “Up”, and “Inside Out”. The latter is an exceptionally thoughtful story that delves into the inner life of an 11-year-old girl named Riley. When Riley and her family move from Minnesota to San Francisco, her world experiences turmoil, leading to a struggle between personified emotions within her mind. The design of Riley’s brainscape is consistently innovative; every scene offers something engaging to observe. On a deeper level, “Inside Out” stands out as one of the most insightful films ever produced about the significance of sadness and loss in our lives.
14. The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)
The video game “Donkey Kong” mirrors life’s challenges quite aptly. It’s incredibly tough, sometimes even cruel. Success is unpredictable, often independent of one’s skill. Fortune favors some, while others are hit by a barrel hurled by a vengeful gorilla who has taken your girlfriend captive. Regardless of how well you perform – even if you set a new high score record – you ultimately meet your end. There is no triumph, only demise. Additionally, you may encounter a cunning mustard king with a mullet. In essence, “The King of Kong” is more than just a film about two men vying for the title of the best “Donkey Kong” player; it’s a reflection of life itself.
13. The Prestige (2006)
In “The Prestige,” directed by Christopher Nolan, intricate storytelling techniques (complex time frames, unexpected twists) and recurring motifs (moral gray areas in protagonists, deceased spouses) are skillfully interwoven to craft a tale more impactful than the individual elements suggest. The characters, portrayed by Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman as competing Victorian-era magicians, push their rivalry to extreme levels – innovation, ambition, and even murder. This film is a Russian doll of narratives within narratives that delve into the idea of artists making sacrifices for their craft and the dual nature of good and evil residing in everyone. Despite knowing the movie’s shocking twists, it remains captivating upon multiple viewings, revealing fresh insights with each watch as you notice how Nolan subtly sets up every plot development if you pay close attention.
12. The Social Network (2010)
In this film directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin, the authenticity of their portrayal of Facebook’s origins may be questionable, but there’s no denying that they masterfully depicted a particular type of man – Jesse Eisenberg’s character, Mark Zuckerberg. This man is intelligent, angry, self-entitled, and craving affection and validation. It appears that Fincher’s 2010 film about Facebook served as a spiritual successor to his earlier work, Fight Club, another tale of a disgruntled, isolated man who finds that venting his rage on society leads to unforeseen consequences. The casting of Justin Timberlake, a real-life music star, as Sean Parker, the founder of Napster and an early Facebook executive, is pivotal. Parker, in many ways, serves as Zuckerberg’s alter ego, or his Tyler Durden. Timberlake bears such a striking resemblance to Eisenberg that they could almost pass as brothers – if one won the genetic lottery while the other drew the short straw. This is who Mark aspires to be, and he comes so close.
11. Nickel Boys (2024)
In this occupation, one often encounters many good and exceptional films, but seldom comes across something truly innovative – a film that redefines cinematic boundaries. However, every now and then, a gem like “Nickel Boys” emerges. This is a unique piece, a bold venture, and it carries a distinctive perspective – or in this case, dual perspectives.
This uniqueness arises from the brave choice of co-screenwriter and director RaMell Ross to film most of his adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel using point-of-view shots primarily from the viewpoints of its two principal characters. The extraordinary POV camerawork of Ross and cinematographer Jomo Fray immerses the audience in the minds and experiences of these struggling young men at a Florida reform school during the 1960s. (I still can’t fathom why Fray wasn’t nominated for an Oscar for Best Cinematography.) If misused, this technique could become a bothersome gimmick. But in Ross’ capable hands, it feels like we’ve experienced the world in a refreshing new light. Perhaps, we’ve even glimpsed the future of cinema.
10. Past Lives (2023)
This poignant and emotional drama delves into the unseen influences in our lives, often referred to as fate, destiny, or simply ‘fate’s design’. These forces draw people together while simultaneously pushing them apart, much like magnets that attract and repel based on physical laws. The story follows a writer named Nora (Greta Lee) and an engineer called Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), who are destined to keep crossing paths, yet struggle to stay together despite their strong connection. Their encounters span childhood, college, adulthood, and each time the world around them changes significantly, but their fundamental bond persists. In one instance, Nora is married to an American man named Arthur (John Magaro). Will Nora choose to stay with her husband? Or does her heart truly belong with Hae Sung? The conclusion of this subtle love triangle is heart-wrenching and will make you ponder the instances and decisions that have shaped your own life, even if their significance only becomes apparent in retrospect.
9. Boyhood (2014)
Year after year, for twelve consecutive years, Richard Linklater along with a small group of actors and crew members worked in secret to film scenes depicting the lives of a boy (Ellar Coltrane), his mother (Patricia Arquette), and his sister (Lorelei Linklater). Some may argue that this film is simply an autobiographical experiment by Linklater, but the outcome was truly exceptional – capturing the essence of American life during the early years of the 21st century through the lens of a single family’s experiences. The unique aspect of this movie lies in its relationship with time; as we witness the actors grow older on screen, it adds an emotional depth to certain scenes and intensifies the poignancy of others. In her closing monologue, Arquette draws upon twelve years of real-life emotions – joy and pain – to give her speech a profound resonance. As Roger Ebert once said, “We live in a confined space and time, but movies offer us windows into its walls.” I can’t recall another film that has opened those windows as wide as Boyhood.
8. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
The movie “Mad Max: Fury Road” stands out as the most spectacular car chase film of this era, with its high-octane action being undeniable. However, “Fury Road” transcends mere action; it delves into the spiritual and even Biblical realms. Essentially, it’s a journey away from the doomed cities of Sodom and Gomorrah in search of a new paradise. This journey is led by the legendary Imperator Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, with Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy) acting as a guide, though he can never fully be part of their refuge. George Miller’s masterful chaos serves as proof that action movies can be both exhilarating and intelligent. If anyone tries to convince you otherwise, look them straight in the eye and say, “That’s preposterous.
7. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
In his eighties now, Martin Scorsese continues to challenge himself and his viewers, eliciting extraordinary performances from actors, and delving once more into themes that have marked many of his finest works: the allure and destructive impact of wealth, and the shadows of tragedy hidden within American history. The backdrop for this tale is the “Reign of Terror” of the 1920s, which claimed the lives of numerous members of the Osage Nation, following their control of oil-rich lands in Oklahoma that made them a target of their white neighbors, including one (Leonardo DiCaprio’s Ernest Burkhart) who is married to an Osage oil millionaire (Lily Gladstone’s Mollie). It seems fitting to say this with each new Scorsese film, but it may be more accurate for Killers of the Flower Moon than ever: If it turns out to be his final movie, it would serve as a powerful conclusion to an extraordinary career.
6. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
2007 saw an abundance of remarkable films, yet none touched me as deeply as “The Diving Bell & The Butterfly,” which was brought to life by Julian Schnabel from Jean-Dominique Bauby’s memoir. Bauby’s account of living with locked-in syndrome resonated powerfully, and its message about embracing life fully left an indelible mark on me. Leaving the theater, I found myself making plans to propose to my girlfriend. Thirteen years and two children later, I still consider that decision a wise one. A recent rewatching confirms that the film’s impact remains as potent as ever.
5. Zodiac (2007)
David Fincher’s film, “Zodiac“, is more than just a story about serial killers. It’s a journey through several decades of San Francisco history, seen through the perspectives of three men: a police inspector (Mark Ruffalo), who was said to have inspired the movie “Bullitt“, a crime reporter from “Chronicle” (Robert Downey Jr.), who became a Zodiac Killer target due to his articles, and an amateur codebreaker and detective, Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal), who couldn’t let the case go even after the killings stopped. What sets “Zodiac” apart from most other films is its exceptional portrayal of the relentless grip of obsession that refuses to be shaken off. Fincher masterfully draws viewers into this intricate web of hints and false leads with skillful cinematography and editing techniques. By the end of “Zodiac“, after 157 tense minutes, every viewer can empathize with Robert Graysmith’s unshakeable determination.
4. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
Looking at their collaborative work, all of Joel and Ethan Coen’s films can be seen as harmonious duets. “Inside Llewyn Davis” serves as their duet that explores the concept of duets. Previously, I have delved into its depths extensively, revealing it is not merely a snapshot of New York’s folk scene in the early 1960s; it is also a tale of the string of miniature misfortunes that strike a talented musician (Oscar Isaac, marking his breakthrough role) following the demise of his companion. It seems fitting that Llewyn’s most beautiful song, “Fare Thee Well,” loses some of its charm when played by a single performer.
3. Lady Bird (2017)
Greta Gerwig’s film, “Lady Bird“, is constructed around several pairs: The main character goes by two names. Throughout the movie, she has two romantic interests, and two close friends. The narrative unfolds across two school terms, each marked by its own stage production. There are two dances, two parties, two significant relationships with her two parents. She applies to two universities and attends two churches. These multiple options make “Lady Bird” a deeply moving film about choice – and at Lady Bird’s age, every choice feels like the biggest decision one will ever have to make. In many ways, they truly are.
2. Take Shelter (2011)
For a person who has personally experienced more than their fair share of panic attacks, I confidently assert that the movie “Take Shelter” stands among the finest films ever produced about coping with anxiety. The character Curtis LaForche, portrayed brilliantly by Michael Shannon, is a family man who seems content with his wife and daughter. Yet, he is plagued by terrifying dreams of catastrophic storms and an unsettling feeling that something dreadful is imminent. Delivering an exceptional performance alongside Jessica Chastain as his spouse, “Take Shelter” masterfully portrays the brutal cycle of fear with unnerving precision. Curtis fears he may be on the brink of a breakdown, given his family history of mental illness, which only amplifies his anxiety, causing him further distress. Many viewers might describe the film’s conclusion as ambiguous. However, I would use the word “inevitable,” because it accurately reflects that this type of anxiety cannot be vanquished. It also underscores that such anxiety cannot be halted by constructing barriers, whether physical or emotional, to safeguard what is precious. Instead, it can only be comprehended and, with the assistance of friends and loved ones, managed.
1. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
In the Musso & Frank Grill, actors Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth encounter producer Marvin Schwarz. Marvin proposes Rick for Italian Westerns, which leaves Rick disheartened, feeling like his career is fading away. As he steps outside, tears flow freely. The camera, directed by Quentin Tarantino, lowers and pans up, with the Musso & Frank Grill sign towering over the dejected duo. Beneath the restaurant’s name on the sign, a poignant truth stands out: “Oldest in Hollywood.” At that moment, Rick feels like an antique, despite his potential for a few more years of stardom. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a remarkable film, filled with clever details like this one. It serves as a narrative of a turbulent era in America (and pop culture), while also paying homage to a form of art that may soon be obsolete.
In the Musso & Frank Grill, Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth converse with producer Marvin Schwarz about Rick potentially starring in Italian Westerns. This proposition leaves Rick feeling down, as if his career is nearing its end. Upon leaving, he sheds tears. Quentin Tarantino strategically positions the camera to highlight the Musso & Frank Grill sign, which reads “Oldest in Hollywood.” In that instant, Rick feels like a relic, despite having some years left in him. The film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is exceptional, with subtle details such as this one, and it portrays a challenging era in America (and pop culture) while honoring an art form that could soon vanish.
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2025-06-23 19:28