2025’s Must-See Movies: A Diverse Collection from Companion to On Becoming a Guinea Fowl

Top Films of 2025: A Diverse Cinematic Journey

As we get deeper into 2025, film critics Nicholas Barber and Caryn James shine a spotlight on some of the year’s most compelling cinema. From a cutting-edge sci-fi comedy to a heart-stirring documentary, here are ten standout films that have made waves so far.

1. Companion

A standout in the realm of American indie cinema, Companion features Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher as a couple entangled in a suspenseful weekend getaway at a Russian millionaire’s remote lodge. As a night filled with liquor and revelations unfolds, the film cleverly weaves genres, transitioning from romantic comedy to unexpected science fiction, all while delivering sharp satire on contemporary masculinity in just 97 minutes.

2. Sinners

In Sinners, director Ryan Coogler presents a mesmerizing blend of history and horror. Michael B. Jordan stars as twins who return to a racially charged Mississippi in the 1930s to launch a juke joint. With rich storytelling that incorporates supernatural elements alongside themes of family and racism, Coogler’s latest work is a potent exploration of African American culture, enhanced by a stellar supporting cast.

3. Art for Everybody

Miranda Yousef’s Art for Everybody tells the fascinating yet peculiar story of Thomas Kinkade, the much-maligned artist known for his idyllic cottage paintings. The documentary analyzes the fine line between commercial success and artistic legitimacy, raising poignant cultural questions while also exploring Kinkade’s tumultuous personal life behind his wholesome public persona.

4. Warfare

The visceral combat drama Warfare, directed by Alex Garland, recreates a harrowing battle between Navy SEALs and al-Qaeda operatives. Garnering acclaim for its relentless intensity and grounded storytelling, the film focuses on the human experience of war rather than political implications, showcasing powerful performances that portray courage amid chaos.

5. Bring Them Down

Bring Them Down is a gritty Irish thriller about a sheep farming dispute that escalates into violence. As the tale unfolds with a unique narrative twist, first-time director Christopher Andrews transforms a straightforward revenge story into a poignant examination of economic desperation and generational trauma.

6. Misericordia

Alain Guiraudie’s Misericordia starts with the return of Jeremie to his village for a funeral, swiftly shifting through genres from drama to comedy and thriller. The film adeptly navigates complex themes of desire and deception while remaining engaging and humorous, bringing to life the small-town dynamics of intrigue and suspicion.

7. Holy Cow

Louise Courvoisier’s poignant debut, Holy Cow, follows a teenager reluctantly taking on adult responsibilities after his father’s sudden death. Set against the backdrop of the Jura region, the film harmonizes warmth and realism, portraying the struggles of rural life while delivering an uplifting narrative centered on growth and resilience.

8. The Friend

In The Friend, Naomi Watts delivers a touching performance as a woman grappling with the loss of her best friend, Walter, portrayed by Bill Murray in reflective flashbacks. The film revolves around the intricacies of grief and companionship, blending humor and heartfelt moments through the lens of a newfound responsibility in caring for Walter’s dog.

9. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

A beloved duo returns in Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, where they confront their mischievous adversary, Feathers McGraw. Through clever storytelling and nostalgic humor, the film explores contemporary themes about artificial intelligence while retaining the timeless charm of Aardman’s signature stop-motion animation.

10. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl

Rungano Nyoni’s On Becoming a Guinea Fowl offers a rich cultural narrative highlighting generational conflict. With engaging storytelling that intermingles realism with surrealism, Nyoni delves into the trauma hidden beneath traditional funeral rituals, crafting a profound exploration of memory and pain.

Keep an eye on these films as they continue to cultivate audiences and stir conversations throughout the year!