The Associated Press has released its rankings for the best films of 2025, with a clear consensus emerging among its film writers. Topping the list is Paul Thomas Anderson‘s “One Battle After Another,” a film that has garnered significant acclaim as awards season commences.
In their evaluations, Lindsey Bahr and Jake Coyle both included “Marty Supreme,” “It Was Just an Accident,” and “Sinners.” Bahr’s list also features “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” “Sentimental Value,” and “The Naked Gun.” Coyle highlighted “No Other Choice,” the third film in the “Knives Out” franchise, along with “Blue Moon” and the documentary “Afternoons of Solitude.”
George Clooney Explores Fame in ‘Jay Kelly’
In related news, George Clooney stars in “Jay Kelly,” a film that examines the complexities of fame and personal regrets. Streaming on Netflix, the film is co-written and directed by Noah Baumbach, who assembled a notable cast, including Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, and Billy Crudup. Clooney’s portrayal of a movie star navigating the challenges of Hollywood was compelling enough that the cast was eager to join the project even before reading the script.
Sandler prepared for his role as Kelly’s manager by shadowing his agent, while Dern did the same with her publicist. The film has prompted cast members to reflect on their own experiences in the entertainment industry.
RoboCop Statue Installed in Detroit
In a significant cultural development, a statue of the iconic crime-fighting character RoboCop has been installed in Detroit, Michigan. This 11-foot tall bronze statue, weighing approximately 3,500 pounds, has become a centerpiece in the Eastern Market area since its unveiling.
The statue’s installation has been met with enthusiasm from fans, including Jim Toscano, who noted that many have been stopping by his production company to view the statue. “RoboCop,” which debuted in 1987, has maintained a cult following, largely due to its portrayal of a dystopian Detroit. Remarkably, the city has seen a significant drop in crime rates since the film’s release, with homicide numbers now falling below those of the mid-1960s.
Critics Weigh In on ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’
Meanwhile, the sequel to the popular horror film “Five Nights at Freddy’s” has received mixed reviews. Mark Kennedy, an Associated Press critic, describes “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” as a continuation of the chaotic narrative established in the first film. Directed once again by Emma Tammi, the film features returning actors Josh Hutcherson and Elizabeth Lail, but struggles with an unclear plot that leaves audiences confused about the motives of the animatronic characters. The film, rated PG-13 for violent content, terror, and some language, was released on Friday.
Creative Changes in the Fashion World
In the fashion industry, Dario Vitale is departing from his role as creative director of Versace after just eight months. His exit comes shortly after the Prada Group completed its acquisition of Versace for $1.375 billion. The brand expressed gratitude for Vitale’s contributions, with his departure set for December 12. The announcement of his successor is pending.
New Challenges for Journalists
On the media front, the New York Times has filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon in response to new regulations imposed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. These rules have led to the revocation of press credentials for several mainstream media outlets that refused to comply. The Times argues that the regulations violate constitutional rights related to freedom of speech and due process, as they grant Hegseth unilateral power over journalist access. As of now, there has been no official comment from the Pentagon regarding the lawsuit.
As 2025 progresses, the film and entertainment landscape continues to evolve, with significant developments in both popular culture and the media industry. The rankings and discussions surrounding these topics demonstrate the ongoing impact of cinema and the arts in reflecting and shaping societal narratives.