A Triumph for “One Battle After Another”: The Critic’s Choice of 2025
Every year, when the dust settles from the cinematic flurry, film critics come together to declare their favorites. This year, the voice of 148 critics rang out with an unmistakable clarity — “One Battle After Another” is not just a standout film, it’s the unequivocal victor. It’s a title that both resonates and provokes curiosity, standing tall amidst stiff competition.
The Consensus Winner
IndieWire’s Year-End Critics Poll unveiled “One Battle After Another” as the clear #1 film of 2025, a recognition shared by the site’s own list of the year’s best movies. Out of the critics surveyed, an impressive 101 named it amongst their Top 10 selections — of those, 43 placed it at the very top. To put this in perspective, last year’s champion, “Anora,” didn’t even come close to this kind of all-encompassing love from the critical community.
What does this tell us about the collective sentiment of today’s critics? It suggests a pervasive excitement and consensus about the film’s merit, indicating not just popularity, but also cultural relevance.
Praise for the Director
Director Paul Thomas Anderson added to the praise by claiming the Best Director honor for his work on “One Battle After Another.” This year marked a shift from last year’s split results, where Brady Corbet took the title for “The Brutalist.” Anderson’s recognition underscores not only the film’s artistry but his continuing evolution as a filmmaker.
But what is it about “One Battle After Another” that’s sparked such widespread acclaim? Critics often cite the film’s intricate storytelling and deeper themes that echo modern challenges and societal issues. Equipped with stellar performances and groundbreaking cinematography, it offers not just entertainment, but also a conversation starter.
A Global Perspective
What’s remarkable is the geographic diversity of the critics who participated in the poll. While a substantial chunk hails from the U.S. and Canada — about 76%, to be exact — voices rang out from six continents. This year, the critics’ spectrum expanded to include perspectives from Argentina, Egypt, India, and even South Korea.
Such diversity reflects a global film landscape where stories transcend borders, influencing viewers and critics alike. It makes one wonder: how might rising filmmakers leverage these global conversations in their own work?
A Thoughtful Process
IndieWire’s voting system is meticulous, utilizing a ranked-choice ballot to determine each category’s winner. Members award points based on their rankings for their top films, which means each number-one pick holds considerable weight. This system delicately balances passion with a democratic touch: the critics may have different tastes, but they unite in celebrating artistry.
This year’s voting entailed the participation of writers from notable platforms like The Hollywood Reporter, Film Comment, and the BBC Culture. It emphasizes the importance of evaluating cinema from multiple perspectives, allowing both mainstream hits and indie sensations a fair shot at recognition.
The Full List
The competition was stiff, with “One Battle After Another” claiming a grand total of 573 points. Hot on its heels was “It Was Just an Accident” with 501 points, followed by “Sinners” at 479 points. Each title hints at the rich narratives that have captivated audiences this year.
What It Means for Filmmakers and Audiences
As we delve deeper into the results, it’s evident that this recognition carries weight beyond mere accolades. Critics’ choices often shape public discourse and influence what stories get retold — or better yet, how they get retold.
In a world fraught with challenges, the emergence of films like “One Battle After Another” represents not just a moment of cinematic triumph but a chance for the public to reflect on their realities. The narratives presented on screen resonate with what we live through — our “battles” in day-to-day life.
A Call to Viewers
For viewers, the question remains: Will you heed the critics’ acclaim? As cinematic channels continue to expand, films often fall through the cracks, especially those not backed by significant marketing campaigns. This makes it imperative for audiences to explore beyond the blockbusters. Who knows? Your next favorite could be tucked away beneath the glitzy surface!
Lessons to Take Away
What’s clear from the acclaim of “One Battle After Another” is the recognition of depth and artistry. As we shift closer to 2026, let’s remember to support films that resonate with our time, stories that provoke thought, and innovative filmmakers pushing boundaries.
In the end, it’s not just a win for Anderson and his crew; it’s a win for every storyteller who dares to share their narrative in a world yearnful for understanding and connection. So, whether you’re a die-hard cinephile or a casual moviegoer, always be curious. Explore, reflect, and—who knows—you might just discover your new favorite film lurking around the corner!
