Top 10 Movies from 2025...So Far
Plus some exciting professional news!!!
First things first, I have a major bit of professional news to share: I have been accepted as a Rotten Tomatoes critic! It is truly remarkable to me that this happened, and I am deeply grateful to those who have supported me at any level. This was never the kind of writing I expected to do, but I love it so much, and I am genuinely honored to be a part of the RT team, even while recognizing some of the flaws inherent in aggregator sites like that.
Now, on to the real point of this, which is to list some of my favorite films from the first half of 2025. According to my Letterboxd, I’ve watched 104 movies so far this year (and Fantasia Festival is coming up next week, so that number is going to go up fast again pretty soon). I’m choosing the top 10 films I have most enjoyed so far this year, which you can also see. This means that movies like We Are Pat and Lemonade Blessing won't be on the list, despite being excellent films. These are in no particular order, other than number one, which is likely going to be my favorite movie of the year, barring something really out there happening.
Mickey 17 – The most recent Bong Joon Ho film, Mickey 17, is a funny and clever film about a world where people sell their bodies to be test subjects for wealthy politicians. Deeply unfunny premise, but it somehow works. (Streaming on HBO Max)
A Nice Indian Boy – This queer rom-com from Roshan Sethi is genuinely romantic and genuinely funny. While it is a little overstuffed for the run-time, you will absolutely be charmed by this sweet story about an interracial gay couple who just wants to get married. (Available on VOD)
THE UGLY STEPSISTER The Ugly Stepsister – I loved The Substance last year, and this year’s version of that film is absolutely The Ugly Stepsister. Incredible body horror and a really smart story about the lies women believe about themselves. Don’t let the language barrier keep you from watching one of the best horror movies of the year so far. (Streaming on Shudder)
Materialists – There might be a bit of recency bias with regard to this one, but I don’t think so. I am just picking up whatever Celine Song is putting down. I love the way Materialists turns the rom-com genre on its head. Not quite as affecting as her debut feature, but a very solid sophomore effort with some excellent performances. (Still playing in theaters)
Presence – Something about Presence has stuck with me. The premise of filming a movie from the perspective of a ghost seems like it wouldn’t work, but somehow it does. I still haven’t seen Black Bag yet (I know), but this Soderbergh film is quite impressive. Not a horror film, but an excellent family drama. (Streaming on Hulu)
One Night in Tokyo – This indie film about two strangers who meet in Tokyo is a lovely reflection on isolation and learning how to overcome that. It is a quiet film that is a beautiful tour of the city and two people finding one another in the midst of a difficult situation. (Available on Hoopla with a library card)
THUNDERBOLTS* Thunderbolts* – I love it when the enemy in the MCU isn’t just the hero but in a different suit. This movie is thoughtful in a way I don’t feel like we’ve seen in a minute, and while it gives the short shrift to a couple characters, it allows Florence Pugh to shine. (Available on VOD)
Bring Her Back – Easily the most disturbing movie of the year and probably recent memory. Bring Her Back has solidified the Philippou brothers as major contenders in the horror genre. Not for the faint of heart, but goodness, this is a beautiful and heartbreaking film in addition to being freaky as heck. (Available on VOD)
Bob Trevino Likes It – Do you need to be reminded that there was a time when social media could be kind of awesome? If so, you want to watch Bob Trevino Likes It. This movie will remind you of the good in the world. Some may find this movie too earnest, but for me, it just feels like the kind of warm hug that I need in the face of a lot of relentless cruelty from so many with power. We take care of each other. (Available on VOD) (Also, check out my interview with director Tracie Laymon)
SINNERS Sinners – I saw this movie three times in theaters, which I never do. Ryan Coogler is a genius and this movie is brilliant. People will be talking about the “I Lied To You” scene for decades. I am a pretty generous critic, but I remain stingy with five stars. Sinners is an easy five stars from me. (Streaming on HBO Max) (Listen to my conversation with fellow critic Austin Belzer)
So that’s my top 10 movies so far this year. I’d love to know what your favorite movies of 2025 have been. Let me know in the comments!
GO ALISE!!!!
Exciting news, congratulations!
I also loved Sinners and enjoyed Materialists.