The 25 Must-Watch Films of 2025: Highlights from 'KPop Demon Hunters' to 'Roofman'

Exploring the Best of 2025

Every year, the pulse of cinema beats strongly, and 2025 was no exception. With a staggering array of films released, our team at the New York Times decided to tap into the wisdom of our critics and garner their thoughts on what truly resonated this year. The result? A curated list of 25 notable films that not only entertained but also provoked thought and discussion.

This article presents our findings, detailing the unique narratives, performances, and creative vision behind these standout films, reflecting the diverse landscape of contemporary cinema.

The Methodology

In crafting this list, we assembled a robust team of 16 film experts from the newsroom, each contributing their distinctive perspective shaped by years of cinematic engagement. By polling these esteemed critics, we unearthed a varied tapestry of films that sparked their imaginations and challenged their preconceptions.

From indie gems to blockbuster spectacles, our selection is alphabetical rather than ranked, emphasizing that each film carries its own weight and significance in the cinematic conversation:

The List of 25 Films

1. KPop Demon Hunters: This animated musical not only entertains but intricately weaves the electrifying themes of girl power and pop culture. The storyline revolves around a K-pop girl group battling demons to save the world. It's a delightful concoction of vibrant animation and catchy tunes, securing its place in the hearts of fans across generations.
2. Bugonia: The latest from Yorgos Lanthimos veers into territory that defies typical genre boundaries, offering a satirical take on conspiracies with subtle commentary on contemporary society. It's a bizarre ride filled with both humor and introspection that manages to provoke thought long after the credits roll.
3. 28 Years Later: This long-anticipated sequel crafted by Danny Boyle dives back into the post-apocalyptic horror landscape of the original, breathing new life into a familiar narrative with fresh themes of hope and despair.
4. Roofman: Starring Channing Tatum, this unconventional narrative about a career criminal finding refuge in an abandoned Toys 'R' Us offers moments of humor wrapped around deeper questions about identity and transformation.
5. Black Bag: Steven Soderbergh's stylish espionage flick is both smart and seductive, featuring a captivating performance by Cate Blanchett, reminding us of the elegance and intrigue inherent in spy narratives.
6. Frankenstein: Guillermo del Toro's iteration brings Mary Shelley's classic to a contemporary audience, blending gothic horror with glimmers of hope, challenging our understanding of monstrosity and humanity.

Captures of Emotion and Art

Films have an extraordinary ability to captivate and convey powerful emotion. This year, many titles have successfully addressed complex themes while maintaining engaging narratives. Come See Me in the Good Light, a poignant documentary on poet Andrea Gibson's battle with cancer, stands out as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of joy in difficult times.

Moreover, Sentimental Value offers an introspective look at family dynamics and estrangement, showcasing the multifaceted relationship between art and personal tragedy. This film invites audiences to contemplate their connections with loved ones through the lens of artistic expression.

Contemporary Themes and Perspectives

As we navigate through a world rife with challenges, many filmmakers are using their platforms to delve into pressing social issues. Weapons, a horror film, cleverly critiques our societal response to violence, marrying genre elements with commentary on cultural narrative. Similarly, the film Marty Supreme surprises audiences by tackling a sports narrative against a backdrop of satire, ultimately pushing audiences to reflect on their perspectives.

Looking Ahead

With so many exceptional films making an impact this year, one can't help but wonder what's next for the cinema landscape in 2026. Will these narratives inspire bolder projects that challenge societal norms? Will we see more diversification in storytelling? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear – the future remains bright for cinema lovers everywhere.

Conclusion

I invite you to dive into these cinematic treasures and share your thoughts. As we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of storytelling that film offers, let's continue to engage with the art of cinema and its potential to inspire, challenge, and reflect our world.

“Cinema will always be a reflection of society, and through that lens, we can discover who we are and aspire to be.”