Film Critics Reveal Their Top Movie Picks for 2025

Top Blockbusters and Superhero Films

• 🎯 "Sinners" by Ryan Coogler is highlighted as a potential movie of the year, praised for its fresh story about twin brothers battling vampires and Coogler's ability to secure his desired creative deal.
• 💥 The superhero genre gets a nod with "Superman" being mentioned as a strong entry that stayed true to the character's essence.
• 🔪 "Wake Up, Dead Man", the third installment in the "Knives Out" series, is considered by one critic to be the best of the trilogy, featuring an intriguing premise about a murdered priest and a potentially long-lasting series.
• 🎬 "Weapons" is noted for its engaging storytelling, where the execution and fun factor outweigh potential plot holes.

Standout Independent and Smaller Films

• 🌙 "Blue Moon", directed by Richard Linklater and starring Ethan Hawke, is recommended for its intimate portrayal of the night "Oklahoma" premiered and the shifting partnership of Rodgers and Hart.
• 🕵️ "The Secret Agent" is praised for its authentic, documentary-like feel, immersive cinematography, and believable performances, making Hollywood films seem artificial in comparison.

Notable Documentaries of the Year

• ⚠️ "The Perfect Neighbor" is described as a deeply upsetting documentary about a disturbing conflict between neighbors that culminates in tragedy.
• 💖 "Jane" (about Jane Mansfield, mother of Mariska Hargitay) is commended for its honesty, fairness, and heartfelt storytelling, offering a beautiful narrative with surprising elements.
• 🎶 "Sly Lives" explores the emotional and cultural burdens faced by Sly and the Family Stone, celebrating their groundbreaking impact on funk/soul music and their challenge to racial and gender boundaries.
• ✍️ "Orwell: Two Plus Two Equals Five" draws parallels between George Orwell's writings and contemporary issues, highlighting the prescience of his work from "Animal Farm" and "1984".

Family-Friendly and Animated Features

• 🦁 "Zootopia 2" is mentioned as a film suitable for children.
• 🎶 "The Choral" is a Christmas release starring Ralph Fiennes as the director of a community choir during World War I.
• 🚀 "Arc O" is a visually stunning animated film about a boy traveling from the future to meet a girl and find his way home.
• 🕵️ "The Bad Guys 2" is surprisingly enjoyable, setting a high bar for animated heist comedies.