The Art of Cinema in 2025
As I sift through the multitude of films that graced our screens this past year, a central theme emerges: the enduring power of storytelling. Despite the ups and downs of the industry, the art forms that bridge the gap between creativity and cultural commentary emerged triumphant. Here are my top ten films of 2025 that reflect not just the times we live in but also the collective human experience.
1. Sinners (Ryan Coogler)
This film packs a punch, blending horror and history in a seamless narrative. Set against the backdrop of Jim Crow-era Mississippi, it tackles race, resistance, and community with both nuance and intensity. Coogler's direction reinvigorates the genre, reminding us that true horror often lurks in our own past.
2. One Battle After Another (Paul Thomas Anderson)
This film is a whirlwind of emotion and drama, tracing the lives of a group of revolutionaries battling both internal and external conflicts. Anderson's unique storytelling captures the messiness of activism and resonates deeply with our current societal struggles.
3. Marty Supreme (Josh Safdie)
Timothée Chalamet shines in this frenetic tale of ambition and anti-Semitism set in post-war America. Safdie's vibrant direction and Chalamet's performance create an exhilarating ride that also carries an important message about identity and resistance.
4. It Was Just an Accident (Jafar Panahi)
Panahi's latest work is a slow-burning thriller that intertwines ethical debates with personal dramas, challenging the viewer to confront their own moral compass while navigating the complexities of resistance under oppressive regimes.
5. BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions (Kahlil Joseph)
This essay film is an ambitious exploration of identity through a historical lens. Joseph mixes documentary and experimental formats to produce a visually stunning meditation on the Black experience that feels both intimate and universally resonant.
6. My Undesirable Friends: Part I — Last Air in Moscow (Julia Loktev)
Loktev's film chronicles the plight of journalists fighting for truth in Putin's Russia, an evocative portrayal that captures the essence of resistance amidst authoritarian oppression, all while maintaining an intimate focus on its subjects.
7. Sorry, Baby (Eva Victor)
This emotionally delicate film captures the complexities of trauma and growth in a woman's life. Victor's directorial debut is a poignant mix of humor and heart, leaving a lasting impression on the exploration of personal history.
8. The Secret Agent (Kleber Mendonça Filho)
A rich political commentary wrapped in a captivating narrative set during Brazil's dictatorship. Mendonça Filho's clever storytelling not only entertains but also prompts profound reflection on power dynamics and societal changes.
9. Caught by the Tides (Jia Zhangke)
Through a blend of fiction and documentary, Jia weaves the story of a woman amidst the evolving landscape of China. This film is an emotional exploration of connection and personal history against broader cultural shifts.
10. The Mastermind (Kelly Reichardt)
This subtle examination of ethics in individualistic pursuits poses a profound question: What are we willing to do for our dreams? Reichardt's narrative is a powerful reminder of the impact of our choices.
Honorable Mentions
In addition to these stellar films, I encourage you to explore:
In reflecting on the last year of cinema, it's evident: while challenges abound for the industry, the creativity and resilience of filmmakers prevail, reminding us that art provides a vital lens through which to understand our world.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/02/movies/best-movies-2025.html
