Barack Obama Reveals His Top 2025 Film Picks

Barack Obama has once again shared his yearly rundown of standout films, this time spotlighting his top choices from 2025. Among the selections is Park Chan-wook’s latest dark comedy, No Other Choice, which takes a sharp look at the harsh realities of late-stage capitalism. This much-talked-about film landed sixth on Obama’s list, continuing his tradition of highlighting his favourite works in cinema and the arts each year.

Big Names and Fresh Faces in the Spotlight

Alongside Park Chan-wook’s entry, the list features Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, a major original hit that’s been drawing crowds, and Chloé Zhao’s Oscar-winning effort, Hamnet. Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest, One Battle After Another, has also made waves, becoming his highest-grossing film to date and topping Obama’s picks for the year.

Since its release, Anderson’s film has been widely tipped as an awards frontrunner. With Jonny Greenwood’s music and a cast delivering top-notch performances, it’s no surprise the film has been showered with praise. The buzz around these films is only growing as awards season approaches.

Obama’s 2025 Film Favourites Ranked

Here’s how Obama’s choices stack up this year:

1. One Battle After Another – Paul Thomas Anderson
2. Sinners – Ryan Coogler
3. It Was Just An Accident – Jafar Panahi
4. Hamnet – Chloé Zhao
5. Sentimental Value – Joachim Trier
6. No Other Choice – Park Chan-wook
7. The Secret Agent – Kleber Mendonça Filho
8. Train Dreams – Clint Bentley
9. Jay Kelly – Noah Baumbach
10. Good Fortune – Aziz Ansari
11. Orwell: 2+2=5 (Documentary) – Raoul Peck

Most of these films have been generating plenty of awards chatter, and there’s a fair chance the Academy might end up agreeing with Obama’s top pick for the year.

Oscar Hopes and Fierce Competition

Paul Thomas Anderson has been waiting a while for Oscar recognition, and his latest blockbuster could finally be the one to break the drought. The film has already made the shortlist in five categories, including Best Original Score, Casting, Sound Design, Cinematography, and Makeup and Hairstyling. It’s likely the nominations tally will only climb from here.

While a clean sweep is possible, Anderson faces tough competition. Park Chan-wook, another director long overdue for Oscar glory, has also received high praise for No Other Choice. The race for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay is shaping up to be a close one.

Streaming and Audience Picks

Whether you’re keen to catch up on the year’s best or just after a good watch, Obama’s list offers plenty to choose from. Punters can look forward to One Battle After Another hitting HBO Max on 19 December. What’s your pick for film of the year? Drop your thoughts below.

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