2025’s Top Movies: From new and legendary superheroes to Weapons of mass enjoyment

2025 has been a terrific year for movies, making it the perfect time to reflect on some of the standout films released so far. While there are still a few highly anticipated titles yet to come, mid-December feels like an ideal moment to look back and highlight the best films of the year. Without further ado, here are my top 10 favorite movies of 2025.

10. Thunderbolts

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is one of the most celebrated franchises in film, but its recent efforts over the past couple of years have been underwhelming to the general public. However, Thunderbolts was a nice return to form for the franchise. This movie managed to bring together multiple second-tier characters and give them real growth while also having meaningful stakes. It got me excited for the future of the franchise leading into 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday, which will surely be a massive hit. Thunderbolts is available to stream on Disney+.

9. The Long Walk

Stephen King’s catalog is mostly horror-based, but this post-apocalyptic drama was one of the most emotional movies of the year. It has a wild premise, following kids participating in a walking competition where the last one standing is the only one to survive. Led by captivating performances from Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson, along with a strong message about brotherhood, The Long Walk is a movie I certainly won’t stop thinking about for a long time. The Long Walk is available for rent on digital.

8. One Battle After Another

Paul Thomas Anderson is one of the most talented directors in Hollywood. His directorial debut, Boogie Nights, is among my favorite movies of all time. This film is a massive departure from his previous work, as it’s essentially an action thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio. There’s a dark comedic tone throughout, along with an Oscar-level supporting performance from Sean Penn. One Battle After Another is a must-see film that I’m sure will receive numerous accolades at the upcoming Academy Awards. One Battle After Another is available for rent on digital.

7. Bugonia

My first experience with Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, Bugonia is one of the most insane movies you’ll see all year. The film follows a conspiracy theorist, played by the brilliant Jesse Plemons, who captures a powerful CEO, played by Oscar winner Emma Stone, due to the belief that she is an alien. If you’re looking for a movie with multiple shocking twists and turns, look no further than this film. Bugonia is available for rent on digital.

6. Mickey 17

This is Bong Joon-ho’s first film since his historic Academy Award win for 2019’s Parasite. It’s a far different film from that Best Picture winner, but a welcome addition to his filmography. The sci-fi comedy stars Robert Pattinson in a fun dual role and manages to parody the current political climate in a clever way. Unfortunately, the box office numbers didn’t reflect the film’s critical success, but go check it out. Mickey 17 is available to stream on HBO Max.

5. F1

Joseph Kosinski’s most recent film prior to this was 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick. That blockbuster was celebrated as one of the most important movies of the decade so far, and his latest film is no different. With thrilling racing sequences and a killer soundtrack, F1 wins the award for my favorite movie theater experience of the year. F1 is available to stream on Apple TV.

4. 28 Years Later

The long-awaited sequel to the zombie franchise was a success. As someone who never had a strong attachment to the original two movies, this was such a pleasant surprise. Ralph Fiennes gives my favorite supporting performance of the year. The craziest thing about this movie is that it was filmed on an iPhone. The mesmerizing visuals and a truly emotional story add up to a beautiful film. The sequel was filmed immediately after and will be released in January. 28 Years Later is available to stream on Netflix.

3. Superman

After the disastrous conclusion to the DCEU, James Gunn’s revival of the DC property delivered the best comic book movie of the year. This is a film that had me smiling from ear to ear for its entire runtime. Superman is a beloved character who inspires hope, and this film portrayed that mindset beautifully. It was one of the most pleasant moviegoing experiences of the year. Superman is available to stream on HBO Max.

2. Sinners

Ryan Coogler is viewed as one of the best young directors in Hollywood, and rightfully so. This vampire thriller stars Michael B. Jordan in a dual role. It starts as a typical drama set in the 1930s but transforms into a full-blown horror thriller with great acting and phenomenal music. Sinners is available to stream on HBO Max.

1. Weapons

I may be the world’s least favorite horror fan, but this movie had my jaw dropped for its entire runtime. Director Zach Cregger may be the freshest new filmmaker with a distinct voice. He comes from a comedy background, but his style of building tension and creating scares is incredible. A simple story about missing kids becomes deeply layered due to Cregger’s method of interwoven storytelling with fascinating characters. Weapons is available to stream on HBO Max.