The year 2025 has been marked by notable cinematic achievements, according to film critics from The Associated Press. In a recent ranking by writers Lindsey Bahr and Jake Coyle, the film “One Battle After Another,” directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, has taken the top spot. The duo also highlighted films such as “Marty Supreme,” “It Was Just an Accident,” and “Sinners” as standout productions of the year.
Bahr’s list includes “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” “Sentimental Value,” and a new addition to the classic comedy genre, “The Naked Gun.” Meanwhile, Coyle’s selections feature “No Other Choice,” the third installment of the “Knives Out” series, along with “Blue Moon” and the documentary “Afternoons of Solitude.”
George Clooney Reflects on Fame in ‘Jay Kelly’
In other entertainment news, George Clooney stars in “Jay Kelly,” a film exploring the complexities of fame and personal regret. Directed by Noah Baumbach, the film showcases an impressive cast, including Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, and Billy Crudup. Set for release on Netflix this Friday, the film has already generated buzz for its narrative that intertwines Hollywood life with themes of parenthood. Sandler prepared for his role by shadowing his agent, while Dern took a similar approach with her publicist, emphasizing the film’s authenticity.
RoboCop Statue Unveiled in Detroit
In a nod to cinematic history, Detroit has welcomed a permanent statue of the iconic character RoboCop. Standing at 11 feet tall and weighing 3,500 pounds, the bronze statue was installed in the city’s Eastern Market area. Local film producer Jim Toscano noted the enthusiastic response from residents, with many driving by to catch a glimpse of the statue. Originally released in 1987, “RoboCop” garnered a cult following due to its depiction of a dystopian Detroit, a stark contrast to the city’s current crime statistics, which are now at their lowest since the mid-1960s.
‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ Review Raises Concerns
Critics have expressed mixed reviews regarding the newly released “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2.” As noted by Associated Press critic Mark Kennedy, the sequel struggles to clarify its plot, which continues to revolve around murderous animatronics. While the film introduces a new character, The Marionette, it fails to capitalize on this addition effectively. Released on Friday and rated PG-13, the film has been criticized for its chaotic narrative and unclear character motivations.
Elf on the Shelf Celebrates 20 Years
As the holiday season approaches, the Elf on the Shelf celebrates its 20th anniversary. This beloved holiday tradition has inspired parents to creatively position the elf around their homes each night, reinforcing the myth that it reports children’s behavior to Santa. Some parents have taken imaginative approaches, with one father even having the elf paint a message on his kitchen wall. In addition to Elf on the Shelf, another holiday figure, Mensch on a Bench, has emerged, designed to introduce children to Hanukkah traditions.
Creative Director Dario Vitale Departing Versace
In a significant development within the fashion industry, Dario Vitale will be leaving Versace just eight months into his tenure as creative director. This announcement comes shortly after the Prada Group’s acquisition of Versace for $1.375 billion, marking a new chapter for the brand. Versace expressed gratitude for Vitale’s contributions and indicated that his successor will be announced soon.
New York Times Files Lawsuit Against Pentagon
In a legal battle, The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon, challenging new rules imposed on military journalists by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The newspaper contends that these regulations infringe upon constitutional rights regarding freedom of speech and due process. Most mainstream media outlets declined to accept the policy, resulting in the loss of their Pentagon credentials. The Pentagon has not yet commented on the lawsuit.
As 2025 progresses, the landscape of film, fashion, and journalism continues to evolve, reflecting broader cultural shifts and the enduring impact of iconic figures in each industry.
