2025 brought with it Companion, a horror-comedy surrounding Iris (played by Sophie Thatcher), an AI robot manufactured for one purpose – playing the part of dream girl for Josh (Jack Quaid). Amidst the idyllic pastels and dreamy soundtrack, this thriller delivers as a fun slasher with a side of social commentary as Iris gains her autonomy after only ever being controlled by her boyfriend. Companion is filled with witty dialogue and knows its tone, establishing it as a firm favourite of mine.
Additionally, Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, dripping with sensual, bloody visuals through its Imax film, instilled new life in the vampire genre. Set in 1930s Mississippi during the enforcement of Jim Crow laws, its rich characters and vibrant blues music express the joy and connection of the black community. The film criticises racial abuse and appropriation, most evidently with its main villains, led by an Irish-immigrant-turned-vampire (Jack O’Connell) who, captivated by this sense of kinship, attempts to steal it for himself. The film is packed with passionate relationships and feeling, with a mesmerising switch in aspect ratio during the major action sequences. Michael B. Jordan, Wunmi Mosaku, and Miles Caton provide especially stunning performances. Overall, it is a must-watch.
Set in 1930s Mississippi during the enforcement of Jim Crow laws, its rich characters and vibrant blues music express the joy and connection of the black community.
James Gunn’s adaptation of Superman, infused with contagious optimism, supplied a more human superhero than most recent iterations. Superman (David Corenswet) and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), a cruel tech billionaire, provide a humorous, compelling rivalry throughout the film. The plot parallels the conflict in Gaza, as fictional Boravia aims to invade fictional Jarhanpur, supplying a strong stance against the genocide. Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) also offers an interesting side to the film as she challenges her boyfriend Superman’s actions, giving their relationship a realistic slant. James Gunn’s version highlights the significance of kindness and compassion, which confirmed it as a favourite of 2025 for me.
Finally, a favourite that surprised me was Zootopia 2. Having not enjoyed Disney films from recent years, it surpassed my expectations. The start of the film emphasises the lack of reptiles in the city for years, which prompts Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde to take interest in finding a snake that seems to not belong. The sequel condemns racial discrimination like the first, but develops this further with its plot relating to the displacement of reptiles from their home. The film is sprinkled with charming character development and beautiful animated landscapes. I would also recommend a watch.
