The article highlights films from this year that depict themes of resistance against oppressive regimes and systemic injustice, emphasizing stories of community solidarity, political activism, and hope for future generations, with a focus on movies like 'It Was Just An Accident,' 'The Secret Agent,' and 'One Battle After Another.'
The article compiles votes from various critics and cinephiles worldwide on the best films of 2025, highlighting a diverse range of movies from different countries and genres, with a focus on innovative storytelling, political cinema, and underrepresented voices.
Thelma Schoonmaker discussed her late husband Michael Powell's belief in creating films for a global audience and expressed frustration with the practice of dubbing in international film releases, questioning how to replace actors' voices like Robert De Niro's in different languages.
The article discusses how 21st-century movies are breaking traditional categories, with genre-blending, international films gaining prominence, and streaming influencing viewing habits, reflecting broader cultural shifts and evolving industry dynamics.
The American Film Institute (AFI) has announced its top 10 films and television programs for 2024, showcasing a diverse range of storytelling across various genres and platforms. Notable films include "Anora," "Dune: Part Two," and "Wicked," while top TV shows feature "The Penguin" and "Shogun." The AFI Awards are seen as a precursor to the Oscars, often aligning with the Academy's best picture nominations. This year's list also reflects a growing acceptance of international cinema under AFI's eligibility rules.
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival, initially thought to be an off year, ended up showcasing a strong lineup of films. Highlights include Rungano Nyoni's surreal comedy "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl," Emilia Pérez's audacious musical crime drama, Sean Baker's Palm d'Or-winning "Anora," and Jia Zhangke's long-term project chronicling modern Chinese history. Other notable films include Tyler Taormina's nostalgic "Christmas Eve at Miller’s Point," Coralie Fargeat's body-horror "The Substance," and George Miller's somber "Furiosa."
The Hollywood Reporter’s critics have selected the 20 best films from the Cannes 2024 festival, highlighting a diverse range of genres and international entries. Notable films include Payal Kapadia’s "All We Imagine as Light," Sean Baker’s "Anora," Andrea Arnold’s "Bird," and Jacques Audiard’s "Emilia Perez." The list features a mix of competition entries, critics' week selections, and special screenings, showcasing the festival's rich cinematic offerings.
Godzilla, the iconic monster, is set to make its first appearance at the Academy Awards as "Godzilla Minus One" is nominated for best visual effects, marking a historic moment for the 70-year-old franchise. The film's unexpected success in North American theaters reflects a shift in moviegoer and Oscar voter tastes toward international productions. "Godzilla Minus One" returns to the original interpretation of Godzilla as a symbol of nuclear holocaust and atomic trauma, resonating with audiences in the current global context. The film's director, Takashi Yamazaki, emphasizes the importance of the message Godzilla represents and the literacy of international moviegoing audiences.
The Oscar nominations have sparked controversy and discussions around gender and genre bias, as well as the growing international influence in the film industry. The nominations reflect a diverse range of international cinema, with a notable presence in categories such as documentary feature. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing the vitality of cinema as a global medium and the need for humility in acknowledging the brilliance of lesser-known works.