The 10 best films of 2025, according to the New York Times – Like More

This week, world cinema gained a new map of references for those who like good stories on the big screen. THE New York Timesone of the most influential newspapers in the world, released its list of the 10 best films of 2025, bringing together productions that cross genres, styles and nationalities. Among the highlights, Brazil appears strongly, guaranteeing space among renowned names in international cinema.

The selection reflects not only box office success, but above all artistic impact, narrative relevance and aesthetic boldness. These are films that provoke, move and remain in memory after the cinema lights go out. And, above all, they help to understand the direction of contemporary audiovisual.

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A ranking that reveals current cinema trends

At the top of the list is “Sinners”, a horror directed by Ryan Coogler, which won over critics and audiences at the same time. The story follows twin brothers who return to their hometown in search of redemption, only to encounter forces even darker than the past they tried to leave behind. The film combines suspense, drama and social commentary, a recurring feature in the director’s work.

In second place is “One Battle After Another”, by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film focuses on an intense and emotional narrative, following a former revolutionary who needs to revisit old alliances to find his missing daughter. The result is a dense, human and deeply political film.

Powerful drama about memory, loss and choices, driven by an emotional and deeply human narrative. Photo: Disclosure

Brazilian cinema highlighted on the international scene

Brazil is present on the list with “The Secret Agent”, directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. The film occupies eighth place and reaffirms the Pernambuco director’s prestige abroad. Starring Wagner Moura, the film takes place in 1977 and follows Marcelo, a technology teacher who tries to rebuild his life by moving from São Paulo to Recife, while escaping a violent and enigmatic past.

Brazilian thriller set in the 1970s that transforms political past and identity into a dense and engaging plot. Photo: Disclosure

The inclusion of the film in the ranking of New York Times reinforces the reach of contemporary Brazilian cinema, which continues to dialogue with political, historical and human themes in a sophisticated and universal way.

The complete list of the 10 best films of 2025, according to the New York Times

1. Sinnersat Ryan Coogler

2. One Battle After Anotherby Paul Thomas Anderson

3. Marty Supremede Josh Safdie

4. It Was Just an Accidentde Jafar Panahi

5. BLKNWS: Terms & Conditionsuntil Kahlil Joseph

6. My Undesirable Friends: Part I — Last Air in Moscowby Julia Loctev

7. Sorry, Babyby Eva Victor

8. The Secret Agentby Kleber Mendonça Filho

9. Carried by the Tidesde Jia Zhangke

10. The Mastermindde Kelly Reichardt

The list works like an invitation. Whether you want to discover new directors, revisit styles or simply choose the next film on your list, the ranking offers a powerful overview of the most relevant cinema produced this year.