Gladiator II isn't a groundbreaking sequel, but it delivers exactly what you'd hope for: a massive, entertaining spectacle. It leans into being a high-production-value blockbuster rehash rather than something fresh, and that's okay. If you go in just wanting a fun, epic ride with impressive scale, you'll likely leave satisfied and maybe even pleasantly surprised. | © Paramount Pictures
The Batman is a dark triumph, offering a gritty detective story and some of the best action sequences the character has ever seen. Robert Pattinson is a brooding, compelling Batman, supported by fantastic turns from Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman and a terrifying Paul Dano as the Riddler. While the pace can feel deliberately slow at times, the incredible atmosphere, Michael Giacchino's iconic theme, and raw intensity make it a truly gripping watch. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Anatomy of a Fall is a gripping film that works as a tense courtroom drama, a painful marriage autopsy, and a study of a fractured family, all at once. Sandra Hüller delivers a powerhouse, Oscar-worthy performance that anchors every complicated emotion. It’s a brilliantly written and directed puzzle that keeps you guessing, right down to the scene-stealing (and very good) dog. | © Neon
Paddington in Peru is another delightful installment, carrying the series' huge heart and gentle humor as the bear explores his past and future. Ben Whishaw’s vocal performance remains endlessly precious, and the new cast additions, especially Antonio Banderas, are clearly having a ball. While it might be the softest of the trilogy, it’s still a consistently funny and warm adventure that feels like a much-needed cinematic hug. | © Sony Pictures Entertainment
Everything Everywhere All at Once is a brilliantly chaotic, heartfelt movie that feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s hilarious and moving, serving up an accurate, funny look at family pressure alongside universe-hopping insanity. You’ll laugh your way through its unique brand of madness, wishing more people were in the theater with you to experience it. | © A24
Across the Spider-Verse has real guts, delivering a sequel that's both a visual explosion and a surprisingly heavy, emotional story. It masterfully pays off every hint from the first film, weaving in wild fan service that never feels like too much. This isn't just another superhero movie, it's genuine art that makes you think about your own place in the universe. | © Sony Pictures Releasing
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a welcome return to the simpler, more character-focused vibe of early Marvel movies. The cast shines in a straightforward origin story that focuses on the team's dynamic without overcomplicating the plot. It's a fun, solid foundation that feels like a step in the right direction, especially if you go in with measured expectations. | © Walt Disney Pictures
The Fall Guy is a hilarious and heartfelt love letter to the unsung heroes of cinema: the stunt performers. Ryan Gosling brings his signature charm to this meta-action-romance, which is packed with incredible, practical stunts that are a genuine celebration of the craft. It’s a fun, emotional ride that makes a strong case for why stunt work deserves its own Oscar category. | © Universal Studios
Killers of the Flower Moon is a powerful cinematic masterpiece, bringing a devastating true story to the screen with immense care and gravity. Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone deliver heartbreaking, complex performances that anchor the film’s tragic narrative. While it’s a long watch, the haunting score and abrupt, appropriate conclusion will stay with you for hours. | © Paramount Pictures
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning aims to be the grandest farewell to the iconic action franchise, delivering the spectacular set pieces and emotional depth you'd expect. While it feels a bit overloaded with characters and some CGI lessens the raw thrill of Cruise's stunts, the high-stakes energy and strong performances make it a fitting, if not perfect, send-off. It’s a reminder to cherish this masterclass in action filmmaking while it lasts. | © Paramount Pictures
Poor Things is a wildly inventive film that breaks rules with genuine purpose, anchored by Emma Stone's fearless and astonishing performance. The stunning costume design and unique visual style perfectly mirror the main character's bizarre and liberating journey of self-discovery. It's eloquent, modern, and truly one-of-a-kind, a perfect movie for anyone who loves sharp wit and bold storytelling. | © Searchlight Pictures
Nosferatu is a terrifying return to form, portraying the vampire not as a sexy heartthrob but as a genuinely menacing and horrific monster. Bill Skarsgård is brilliantly unsettling as Count Orlok, an evil force with zero redeeming qualities that brings terrible consequences in his wake. It’s a beautifully grim reminder of how scary the genre can be when it embraces pure, unsettling dread. | © Focus Features
Oppenheimer is a masterclass in storytelling, weaving together timelines to explore the profound moral conflict of the man who built the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy delivers a riveting, Oscar-worthy performance that makes the three-hour runtime fly by. It’s a stunning, intense film that pulls you into its complex world with breathtaking sound design and powerful supporting turns. | © Universal Pictures
Inside Out 2 tackles the transition into teenage years with a surprising amount of heart and insight, introducing new emotions like Anxiety and Envy that feel all too real. While made for kids, the film resonates deeply with adults, offering a comforting reminder about the chaos of growing up and overthinking. It’s a beautifully animated, heartfelt story that encourages you to embrace your feelings, sit with them, and remember you’re not alone. | © Walt Disney Pictures
Avatar: Fire and Ash doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but as a fun, visually outstanding experience, it proves James Cameron is still the king of the blockbuster. Yes, the story is familiar, and it runs long, but the cinematic experience is genuinely entertaining, with stunning 3D effects that make Pandora feel alive. It’s the kind of big-screen ride that reminds you why going to the movies is still a thrill. | © 20th Century Studios
The year's almost over, but there's still time to catch up on the best movies you might have missed. We've pulled together a list of fantastic films from recent years that are absolutely worth your time. So grab some popcorn and get ready to wrap up your year with a great watch.
