So far in 2025, the UK has already provided an impressive slate of films. These films exemplify the dynamic range of imaginative storytelling and rich talent from across the country. From survival dramas to animated features, the cinematic landscape is rich with narratives that reflect both personal and societal themes. These movies, among plenty of others not mentioned, have been some standouts that look to continue busying theaters during the spring and summer months.
Among the standout films is a gripping survival drama directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, featuring acclaimed actors Tilda Swinton and Michael Shannon. The movie takes an unflinching look at a family through the lens of their life in a survival bunker. It unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world that challenges their survival and deepens their relationships. The inclusion of their son adds an intimate dimension to the storyline, making it a compelling watch for audiences seeking emotional depth amidst existential dread.
In the world of satire, Jesse Armstrong’s new series second after-Succession is a timely, scathing indictment of wealth and privilege. The movie centers around four high-powered plutocrats as they head off for an opulent weekend at an exclusive resort. Yet it features uncompromisingly, sometimes hilariously, their idiocy and absurdities of their souls. Critics have praised the film’s clever dialogue and caustic humor, which make it not only enjoyable, but intellectually unsettling and resonant.
Timothée Chalamet performs in James Mangold’s biopic of Bob Dylan, the most talked-about movie so far this … [CLICK HERE to read more ]Beyond playing the role of the legendary musician, Chalamet sings Dylan’s classic songs himself. This deliberate artistic decision adds a deeper sense of authenticity to her portrayal. Audiences will discover Chalamet disappearing under the psychic skin of Dylan’s culture-generating music and persona.
Documentaries and Feature Debuts
Kevin Macdonald’s documentary provides a powerful glimpse into John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s experience of the 1970s in New York City. The film succeeds masterfully by relying on a trove of television archive and audio recordings. The resulting film paints an evocative portrait of the couple through a radical, transformative period in their lives. Critics have praised the documentary for its skillful craftsmanship, stitching together historical pieces into a beautiful and impactful whole.
India Donaldson’s narrative feature debut takes audiences through the day in the life of 17-year-old Sam (Lily Collias). The coming-of-age story delves into the complexities of adolescence, capturing the struggles and triumphs faced by young individuals in today’s society. The emotional impact of the film has deeply connected to audiences, providing a familiar and exposing perspective on youth.
Laura Carreira’s debut feature drama tracks warehouse worker Joana Santos as she tackles the pressures of the precarious working class employment of the digital age. The film sheds light on the gig economy and its implications for workers, showcasing the personal stories behind the statistics. Through Joana’s journey, audiences gain insight into the struggles faced by many in today’s workforce.
Raoul Peck’s film presents a fictionalized account based on the writings and diaries of Ernest Cole, narrated by LaKeith Stanfield. This new artistic venture explores the life and story of Cole, but it tells stories that resonate with race and identity. Peck’s storytelling approach draws you in and makes you think about these past injustices and connects them to today’s realities.
Animation and Thrillers
Adam Elliott’s animated feature, Memoir of a Snail, has made waves for its impressive artistic aesthetic and heartwarming storyline. Featuring voice talents such as Sarah Snook and Kodi Smit-McPhee, the film tells an imaginative story that appeals to both children and adults alike. Critics have praised Elliott’s skill in interweaving humor and pathos, bringing a unique coin-of-the-realm image to the world’s viewing experience.
Geoffrey Rush has a revelatory role as an aging poet in a commune style care home. This narrative explores the realities of retired people as they find their way to living in a cooperative environment. His character, a retired judge, is seeking to cope with the realities of aging and memory loss. John Lithgow co-stars as a fellow resident who employs his own therapy puppets. The animated film provides genre thrills as suspenseful as they are fun in their whimsy.
Starring Radhika Apte, this Mumbai-set comic horror film blends laughs with chills for a delightful genre mashup. Since its debut, the eye-opening documentary has received accolades for its creative approach to storytelling, mixing genres with a fresh perspective while tackling social issues and stigmas. Apte’s performance has been called a standout, consistently engaging and pulling audiences into the strange world crafted by filmmakers.
Nature Documentaries
Sir David Attenborough is the voice of a new documentary of the UK’s sea, revealing its beauty and fragility. Above all, the film tries to inspire people to protect the environment – all while captivating them with stunning underwater imagery. Attenborough’s narration provides a sense of gravitas to the narrative, appealing to audiences to understand the stakes involved in preserving ocean ecosystems.