Review published 29th December 2025

Well, it is that time of year again when we look back at the films that made the biggest impression, and 2025 proved to be another strong year for cinema. I have put together a list of personal favourites, along with my top ten films of the year and my pick for film of the year.

Also, on behalf of my family and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all of your ongoing support!

Kind regards, Peter Walkden – Owner and Founder of Walkden Entertainment & Walkden Publicity.

Best Documentary: Love of an Icon: The Legend of Crocodile Dundee (Kismet Films)

Overall, fans of Australian comedy, filmmaking, and the iconic Crocodile Dundee will leave this documentary with a smile and a renewed appreciation for one of Australia’s greatest cinematic icons. Beyond discussing the details of the legendary film, the documentary features many touching moments that honour John Cornell and Paul Hogan, along with a wealth of insightful interviews and behind-the-scenes clips that have never been shown before. This documentary covers all aspects of the phenomenon, including The Paul Hogan Show, famous Australian commercials, and the creation of Crocodile Dundee, capturing both the highs and lows of its production (mostly highs!). As someone who grew up watching Crocodile Dundee on Beta as a child, I find it fantastic to see such iconic figures still being celebrated today.

TOP TEN FILMS OF 2025

10. Weapons (Warner Bros.)

Weapons grabs your undivided attention from the very first scene. It is creepy, mysterious and refreshingly original in the horror genre. The story is filled with unpredictable twists, keeping you on edge as more details are revealed, building toward a wild and unforgettable finale. Writer and director Zach Cregger has clearly found his niche, and this is exactly the kind of film we need more of. Julia Garner and Josh Brolin are terrific, and Amy Madigan delivers what may well be her best performance to date. Credit also goes to the marketing team, who brilliantly kept the film’s secrets under wraps, allowing viewers to experience it with a sense of complete unknown.

09. F1: The Movie (Warner Bros. / Apple)

Lovers of films like Top Gun and Days of Thunder, this one is for you. Who doesn’t enjoy a gloriously brainless ride built around fast cars, a thumping film score, and action sequences that make a home surround-sound system purr. Brad Pitt delivers another charming and likable performance, supported by strong comedic timing throughout. Visually, the film is stunning and confidently directed by Joseph Kosinski, who once again proves he knows how to deliver high-octane entertainment. At the same time, the plot is admittedly predictable, but that never stopped me from grinning and simply having a great time. By the time the credits rolled, I could not help but wish there were more films this unapologetically entertaining.

08. Sinners (Warner Bros.)

Sinners is hot and smokin’! It may take some time to get fully going, much like the 1996 film From Dusk Till Dawn, but it delivers a satisfying and entertaining experience through its thrilling finale and climax, wild action and heartbreaking tragedy. Once again, Michael B. Jordan’s performance is nothing short of incredible, and the same can be said for most of the supporting cast, including Hailee Steinfeld, Wunmi Mosaku, Delroy Lindo, and others. The soundtrack by Ludwig Göransson is also a vital component of the film; it’s sensational, and many scenes wouldn’t be the same without it. Lastly, watch the end credits, as they add to the overall experience. 

07. The Brutalist (Universal Pictures)

Who would have thought that a film centred on an architect could be so dramatic, gripping and heartfelt? Despite its lengthy runtime, I was utterly engaged from start to finish, following the touching journey of one man attempting to reclaim not only his work, but his legacy. Adrien Brody delivers a truly spellbinding performance, while Guy Pearce is equally memorable in a role that is genuinely skin-crawling. The film boasts an incredible visual style, paired with a score that knows precisely when to excite audiences and when to leave them carrying a heavy emotional weight. Like films such as The Godfather, this stands as a powerful achievement for cinema. Even if you only watch it once, it is the kind of film that will stay with you for a lifetime.

06. The Ugly Stepsister (Shudder)

The Ugly Stepsister consists of gruesome moments and disturbing aspects of body horror- I loved every minute of it.  Instead of taking a Disney concept and adding a wacky, silly, cheap spin on it, this takes the famous tale and goes far deeper than I could even imagine, not just through its level of horror and gripping tension, but the outstanding use of costumes, set pieces, locations and more. Considering it’s her first time on-screen, I thought Lea Mathilde Skar-Myren’s leading performance here was magical and refreshing.  Ultimately, if the beloved Cinderella and The Substance went to the ballroom together, this is precisely what you get, and it’s a sensational and fantastic horror film.

05. Crocodile Dundee: The Encore Cut (Kismet Films)

I had a fantastic experience revisiting a film that holds deep personal nostalgia for me, featuring iconic characters that are etched in Australian history, especially Mick Dundee. The results of the restoration process are outstanding and impressive. Watching this film on a big screen will be a rewarding experience for both long-time fans and newcomers eager to witness one of the greatest—if not the best—Australian films ever made. Crocodile Dundee: The Encore Cut includes some edits, particularly to one scene, as well as a few minor additions, such as country acknowledgments before the film and a heartfelt dedication to John Cornell. However, these changes do not affect the main plot, the heartfelt romance, the outrageous comedic moments, the brilliant emotional soundtrack, or the classic one-liners that many fans continue to quote. For many viewers, including myself, these alterations feel minor, and my love for this film remains unchanged.  In conclusion, Crocodile Dundee: The Encore Cut is a welcome upgrade. It’s a delightful experience watching the film in such premium quality. As movie lovers, we are truly blessed to get such an entertaining film cleaned up for a new generation.

04. Bob Trevino Likes It (Rialto Distribution)

If you’re looking for a drama film that combines heartfelt moments with comedy and leaves you feeling inspired, I highly recommend this movie. It tells a beautiful story based on true friendship. The performances by Barbie Ferreira, John Leguizamo, and French Stewart are outstanding, and the dialogue feels genuine and authentic. While some aspects may be predictable, the emotional impact remains significant and rewarding once the credits roll. I rarely say this, but this film is more than just entertainment; it offers a profound experience that takes viewers on a journey, reminding us of the unlimited power of human connection and the importance of friendship.

03. Reflection in a Dead Diamond (Shudder)

Reflection in a Dead Diamond is packed with a psychedelic visual style, a tight pace, an impressive and breathtaking sound stage, and most importantly, a mystery you will not be able to predict, no matter how smart you think you are when it comes to film. To confirm your suspicions, yes, the James Bond vibes are all present in this film, and I loved seeing the fresh ideas around costume, gadgets, and most importantly, a long-term nemesis, along with many other classic film nods throughout. This was a wild ride, and by the end, I was keen to go through it all again with a guaranteed new perspective compared to the first watch. Much like looking at a high-quality diamond, something about this film is fantastic and breathtaking, no matter the angle.

2. Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamond in the Desert (Sharmil Films)

Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamond in the Desert offers a spectacular combination of an epic concert and engaging celebrity interviews, featuring notable figures such as Sir Christopher Nolan and Denis Villeneuve. Viewers get to share heartfelt discussions between notable figures and the legendary Hans Zimmer, creating a memorable experience. The concert showcases tracks from iconic films such as Gladiator, Interstellar, Dune, and The Lion King, among others. Not all performances occur on stage; at various moments, Zimmer and his team perform in locations that complement the tracks they are playing. The casual attire and thoughtfully selected surroundings add a brilliant touch to the presentation. This show is a must-see on the big screen for fans of exceptional cinema and music.

FILM OF THE YEAR

01. One Battle After Another (Warner Bros.)

One Battle After Another opens at a slow, low-key pace, but it does not take long before the film shifts into overdrive. From there, it expertly balances comedy, suspense, tension and high stakes, delivering a series of unpredictable turns. Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro both give stellar performances, while Sean Penn once again proves unsettling, offering a character that feels fresh and deeply disturbing. It is also worth noting that this marks another major success for writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson, who at this point feels incapable of failure. He continues to create bold, unforgettable cinematic experiences, leaving audiences eager to see what secret recipe he will unveil next. The score is eerie and highly effective, elevating the atmosphere throughout, and the visuals, particularly in the third act, are striking, artistic and genuinely admirable.

About the Reviewer

Peter Walkden

Film writer and curator with a deep passion for cinema, genre filmmaking, and physical media. Exploring new releases, cult favourites, and overlooked films, with a strong focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and the theatrical experience.

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