By Sophia Albertie
Now that 2025 is a third of the way through, I wanted to take a moment to explore some of the best movies released this year. With that, I present to you my top five movies of the year so far.
“A MINECRAFT MOVIE”
Coming in strong and alive for five: “A Minecraft Movie,” directed by Jared Hess, released earlier this April in theatres around the globe.
With a whopping 47% on rotten tomatoes, it’s a literal blockbuster and fun for the whole family.
Follow Steve as he leads a ragtag group of characters through the different biomes of a pixelated world in an attempt to find their way back home.
Objectively speaking, this isn’t “Pulp Fiction” or “The Godfather,” but with the reactions that have stemmed from various parts of the film and the anticipation of its arrival from kids and adults alike, it ought to be placed in an even higher tier.
Fun movies are back, and they are even worse than I remember in the best way possible.
“MICKEY 17”
A core fourth, “Mickey 17,” directed by Bong Joon Ho, follows the story of Mickey Barnes and his adventures through several lives.
Robert Pattinson’s scrappy character just can’t seem to die. After one iteration of Mickey succumbs to an unfortunate fate, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories still intact.
Will Barnes be able to distinguish himself from all other versions, or vanish into obscurity with the rest of his lookalikes? Bong really outdid himself with this one.
A trippy two hour and 17 minute long kafkaesque tale that will leave you humored, disturbed and existential beyond reason.
“THE BATTLE OF WALLIS ISLAND”
If you have some viewing time to spare on a more indie, slice of life film with a mystical undertone, I highly recommend “The Battle of Wallis Island.”
A strong contender for number 3 on this list, because it certainly isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfect for the intended audience.
The film follows Charles, who has just won the lottery and lives alone on a remote island. His one wish? To have his favorite folk band reunite and perform at his home.
This quirky, dry lighthearted tale is not necessarily conventional, but if you’re a fan of British humor you’ll appreciate this sweet story.
“I’M STILL HERE”
Up next is “I’m Still Here,” starring Fernanda Torres as Eunice Pavia, the wife of Brazil’s Rubens Pavia.
Following the forced disappearance of Rubens, Eunice must grapple with her new life and hold her family together in the midst of total political meltdown.
Torres’s groundbreaking performance is truly what makes this film stand out. Viewers observe the complete transformation of a wife and family in distress as they journey to find out what happened to one of the most influential figures in Brazil, as well as a husband and father.
Viewers are in for a whirlwind of emotions for this one.
“ON BECOMING A GUINEA FOWL”
The top movie of 2025 so far and the most underrated is “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl.”
Directed by Rungano Nyoni and set in Zambia, this film follows main character Shula and her family as they process the sudden death of her uncle.
What lies beneath the surface? What secrets will be revealed? This black comedy and meditation on life and loss is a must see, if you’re looking for a fresh story with smart writing and incredible performances, this is the film for you.
