1. A Star is Somewhat Forlorn: 'Jay Kelly'
In Noah Baumbach's tender tribute to cinema, George Clooney portrays a movie star searching for solace in his memories. While the film occasionally falters with disjointed sequences, its nostalgic charm shines through.
“Certain sections of 'Jay Kelly' seem perplexingly out of joint... but the film still has a strange, old-fashioned charm.” - Review
Watch on Netflix | Read the full review
2. Trauma as Advantage: 'The Chronology of Water'
Kristen Stewart's directorial debut draws from Lidia Yuknavitch's memoir, crafting a riveting exploration of painful childhood memories. Despite some clichéd visuals, it invites viewers into a deeply intimate experience.
“This isn't always a comfortable place to be; whether you emerge rewarded or drained may depend on the baggage you bring.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
3. Music Meets Film: 'Merrily We Roll Along'
Maria Friedman captures the essence of Stephen Sondheim's musical in her film adaptation, showcasing a stellar cast including Daniel Radcliffe.
“In immortalizing this musical… she's done a precious and admirable thing.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
4. Political Drama: 'La Grazia'
Paolo Sorrentino reunites with Toni Servillo in a film that explores the uncertainties of a fictional politician. While engaging, it struggles to form a cohesive narrative.
“Many of these interludes are engaging, handsome and narratively rounded, but they also never cohere into a persuasive, satisfying whole.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
5. Animated Reality: 'Endless Cookie'
This comedic documentary, featuring zany animations, invites viewers into a whimsical world that bridges past, present, and potential futures.
“Their exchange of memories inspires their dreamlike movie to wobble between the 1980s, the present and sometimes even the future.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
6. High-Society Sendup: 'Fackham Hall'
Take a comedic dip into British high-society tropes with a film that brilliantly satirizes the genre through wordplay and pratfalls.
“More than any dialogue, the visual flourishes take the cake.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
7. Exploring Family Dynamics: 'Happy Holidays'
Through a segment structure, this film provides a gripping look at societal pressures affecting a Palestinian family.
“The movie favors an unflashy presentation that allows its themes to emerge organically.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
8. Horror Returns: 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2'
The latest installment in this horror franchise capitalizes on its bigger budget, delivering more elaborate and chilling scenes.
“With its jacked-up production budget, 'Freddy's 2' delivers more intricate set pieces.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
9. Feminist Fable: '100 Nights of Hero'
This charming adaptation of a graphic novel intertwines tales of secret storytellers with humor and magic.
“But its borrowed sensibility often falls just short of the vision it's reaching for.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
10. Coming-of-Age: 'Little Trouble Girls'
Set against a backdrop of youthful exploration, this Slovenian film paints an intimate portrait of a teenager's awakening.
“What she's after is a transformational moment in Lucia's life that she gestures at.” - Review
In theaters. Read the full review.
11. Tension in 'Rosemead'
Lucy's Liu's gripping performance as a mother fearing for her son's future creates a beautiful yet harrowing experience.
“In its march toward resolution, 'Rosemead' never falters in its compassion.” - Review
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/05/movies/new-movies-this-week-critics.html
