10 Standout Films of 2025

This list isn't about picking the 'best' films of the year. Instead, it's a personal selection of 10 movies that truly stood out to me on the big screen in 2025. These are simply great films.

1. ‘THE BRUTALIST’ (United States), Brady Corbet

This monumental film, clocking in at 3 hours and 35 minutes (with a 15-minute intermission in cinemas), tells the story of a Hungarian architect who moves to the United States after World War II. It's packed with unforgettable visuals. Adrien Brody delivers an incredible performance, earning him his second Oscar. It's a modern film that beautifully honours classic cinema.

2. ‘WEAPONS’ (United States), Zach Cregger

One of the most original films of the year, 'Weapons' expertly plays on our fears, particularly those of parents. It's a strange film that pulls you deeper into its story with every twist. A gripping psychological horror with a stunning ending.

3. ‘I'M STILL HERE’ (Brazil), Walter Salles

The film opens with 30 bright minutes depicting a harmonious family, which then sharply contrasts with the dark era of the Castelo Branco dictatorship. It's an essential piece of historical memory, offering intelligent and subtle filmmaking. It deservedly won the Oscar for Best International Film.

4. ‘THE CAPTIVE’ (Spain), Alejandro Amenábar

Alejandro Amenábar, a master storyteller of Spanish cinema, presents a fable about Miguel de Cervantes' time as a captive in Algiers. The film painstakingly recreates the 16th-century African city and encourages viewers to appreciate life's simple pleasures.

5. ‘HERETIC’ (United States), Scott Beck and Bryan Woods

Hugh Grant delivers his best performance yet as the master of ceremonies in this horror film, which delves into religious beliefs. It's a disturbing movie that keeps you on edge from start to finish.

6. ‘FRANKENSTEIN’ (United States), Guillermo del Toro

Guillermo del Toro shines with a visually spectacular film. This gothic horror story is infused with love and truly captures the spirit of Mary Shelley's original novel. Simply splendid.

7. ‘ONE TO ONE: JOHN & YOKO (United Kingdom), Kevin Macdonald and Sam Rice-Edwards

This film offers a visual record of John Lennon's last concert after leaving The Beatles: the 1972 One to One Benefit Concert. Beyond being an outstanding rock documentary, it also provides an accurate look at American society in the early 1970s.

8. ‘SPRINGTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE’ (United States), Scott Cooper

This biopic explores Bruce Springsteen's life before he became 'The Boss.' It shows a young musician on the brink of global fame, battling his personal demons, and focuses on the making of his 1982 album, 'Nebraska.' It's an intimate film, and Jeremy Allen White proves he's one of the best actors of his generation.

9. ‘HIND'S VOICE’ (Tunisia), Kaouther Ben Hania

The film tells the heartbreaking story of Hind Rajab, a 6-year-old girl calling for help in Gaza, representing thousands of children suffering the senselessness of war. It's a profoundly moving film that goes beyond typical cinema.

10. ‘DEAF’ (Spain), Eva Libertad

Eva Libertad's powerful debut intelligently explores the challenges faced by people with hearing disabilities. Featuring strong performances from Miriam Garlo and Álvaro Cervantes, it deservedly won multiple awards at the Málaga Festival.