Sun is out and sitting under the shade of an old oak tree whilst reading the latest edition of Marshwood Vale is much to be preferred to a darkened cinema, so here are my favourite films that I have watched in the last 12 months.
Sentimental Value (2025) Mubi.
Following a failed father and filmmaker attempting to connect with his daughters by turning the former family home into a set, Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value is a subtle yet sweeping tapestry of art, family and connection that takes the breath away. TheWrap. Chase Hutchinson
Train Dreams (2025) Netflix.
A Western epic of breathtaking visual splendor and formidable lyrical cinematic poetry, it’s a work containing all the wondrous, devastating layers of an entire life, which it explores with a gentle grace without hiding from the agony that comes with it. TheWrap. Chase Hutchinson
One Battle After Another (2025) Sky
In years to come, when this appears on TV late at night, it’ll be impossible to switch off. It’s just one of those films. A stone-cold, instant classic. Empire. Alex Godfrey
Sinners (2025) Apple TV
It’s a sweaty, intoxicating, all-nighter of a movie, and its allure cannot be denied.
TheWrap. William Bibbiani
Secret Agent (2025) Mubi
It’s a major achievement, and for my money, sure to be one of the best films of the year.
The Hollywood Reporter. David Rooney
The Voice of Hind Rajab (2025) BFI player
It is deliberately punishing material, channelled through unapologetic, galvanising film-making. Politicians should see it. Decision-makers should see it. The Times. Kevin Maher
