Of the 170+ films I saw this year, the ones that resonated the most with me were either filled with broken people looking for a way to heal, or defined by audacious storytelling choices – multiple viewpoints, non-linear or reverse narration, or simply exceptional screenwriting. This year’s Top 10 list might be my most eclectic yet but it’s also a reflection of all the uniquely talented new voices that emerged or visionary filmmakers that had something momentous to share.
Every year, I increasingly feel luckier that there are so many films to enjoy and debate. Here is my list of the ones that moved me the most in 2025.
1. WEAPONS
A tightly constructed mystery that is revealed layer by layer until its explosive, immensely satisfying ending. Zach Cregger cements himself as one of the most exciting preeminent voices in horror with his second film masterfully directed to build tension, suspense, thrills, scares, and genuine awe. The script’s narrative structure is fresh, bold and exhilarating.
Like Ingmar Bergman’s Hour of the Wolf, there are multiple striking framing devices that are viscerally terrifying in Weapons from a dark doorway to a basement reveal. After watching this film four times in the theater in 2025, I have no doubt that it’s a horror masterpiece. Every once in a while, a film comes along that rocks your world and this one is mine.
2. SENTIMENTAL VALUE
Joachim Trier crafts a beautifully profound film which explores how our upbringing can effectively shape who we become. Small comments, decisions made, passing reflections can seep into our subconscious and translate into how we view the world, ourselves, our own worth, and our path forward to happiness. Renate Reinsve is breathtaking as one of two sisters navigating why she seems to feel immense sadness at the possibility of true connection, or alone when she is surrounded by a roomful of adoring fans.
There is so much nuance in every performance and frame of Sentimental Value that it can feel cozy, devastating and melancholy all at the same time. It’s also a story that provides perspective and relatability to every character—even when that character is a house they grew up in. It’s an astonishing feat of filmmaking.
3. SINNERS
Sinners is an intoxicating experience—it’s electrifying, sexy, stylish and transcendent. Seeing the film in 70mm IMAX elevated my film loving pulse even higher than my first IMAX viewing. The shot compositions are staggering, the performances are pitch perfect, the tempo is invigorating, and it’s all centered around the defining juke joint scene that makes you feel like you are leaving your own body and ascending to cinematic heaven.
4. SORRY, BABY
Eva Victor is a revelation as the writer, director and magnetic star of this nonlinear film. In one scene Victor’s character, Agnes looks quietly around the office she just moved into and I realized that tears were spilling down my face. This is a special film expertly edited to demonstrate the passage of time doesn’t heal all wounds. Some things that happen to us can never be forgotten and our way forward may not always be the most direct, but Victor provides grace in how we choose what’s next.
5. PRESENCE
A powerful, moving and atmospheric ghost story. Steven Soderbergh’s thrilling camerawork is unbelievably captivating complemented with intimate performances all witnessed from a ghost’s POV. The ending of this mesmerizing movie will knock you flat.
6. SECRET MALL APARTMENT
Jeremy Workman’s latest documentary explores the beauty of art, the power of empathy, and is also a straight up riveting caper film. When these artists/roomies show us their apartment keys, I felt like my heart was literally expanding.
7. 28 YEARS LATER
Alex Garland proves once again he is a master storyteller of the human condition. Danny Boyle plunges us into the Garland created universe where the infected have evolved and people have learned to coexist with them as best as they can. In this unsettling world, a young boy searches for answers for his mother’s illness and we follow him on a thought provoking, heart stopping, savage journey that is simply spellbinding.
8. KPOP DEMON HUNTERS
A propulsive, kinetic candy-colored film rich with themes from grappling with your true identity, overcoming your inner demons to unlock the best version of you, to finding a soulmate that makes you feel safe and seen. KPop Demon Hunters became a phenomenon not only for its flawless, catchy gorgeous pop songs or its killer final climatic battle scene, but because it’s a magnificent story of acceptance and quieting the voices inside of your head that tell you you’re not worthy.
9. THE LIFE OF CHUCK
Equal parts overwhelming, introspective, and soaring. Mike Flanagan gifts us this adaptation of a Stephen King short story about how one man’s life contains multitudes and leaves an indelible mark on everyone he meets. Humanity needed a publicist in 2025, and this film is it in the best possible way.
10. SUPERMAN
A love letter to the power of compassion and hope. James Gunn immortalizes Superman with courage and humility showing us that even though he is from another planet, he represents the best parts of us. This was a spectacular story packed with humor, heart, action, and wonder.
Honorable Mentions: WARFARE, THE MONKEY, TRAIN DREAMS, BUGONIA, HEDDA, PEE-WEE AS HIMSELF, THE SMASHING MACHINE, COMPANION, FRIENDSHIP, THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME, SPLITSVILLE, IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU, NOUVELLE VAGUE, ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER, PILGRIM, SIRAT, NO OTHER CHOICE, THE TESTAMENT OF ANN LEE, HAMNET, BLUE MOON, IT WAS JUST AN ACCIDENT