The Hollywood Reporter Unveils Its Top Movie Picks for 2025

Finding a hidden gem in today’s crowded streaming landscape can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options fighting for our attention, it is all too easy for brilliant storytelling to get lost in the noise of blockbusters and star-studded releases. To help cut through the clutter, the critics at The Hollywood Reporter have released their definitive lists of the best films of 2025.

Leading the conversation is the Brazilian political thriller The Secret Agent, directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. Critics have praised the film for its unique blend of absurd humor and deep historical reflection. David Rooney even described it as a masterpiece that stands in a category of its own.

Another standout title that captured the critics’ attention is Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler. This film offers a fresh and dark twist on the vampire genre. Set in Mississippi during the era of racial segregation, it combines supernatural horror with poignant social commentary.

Paul Thomas Anderson also made waves this year with his latest project, One Battle After Another. The political drama has been highlighted as a major cinematic achievement for 2025. It joins other highly rated films such as Weapons, Sound of Falling, and The Perfect Neighbor on the critics’ top lists.

Timothée Chalamet continues his strong run with Marty Supreme, a film that also earned a spot among the year’s best. Other notable mentions include Peter Hujar’s Day, It Was Just an Accident, and Twinless. These selections prove that despite the industry’s focus on franchises, original cinema is still very much alive.

With so many acclaimed titles to choose from, it looks like movie buffs have plenty to catch up on before the year ends.

Which of these films are you most excited to watch, or have you already seen a favorite that didn’t make the list? let us know your thoughts in the comments.