The Envelope Selects Top Movies, TV Shows of 2025

As 2025 unfolds, a range of compelling films and television shows have captured the spotlight, highlighting the year’s cinematic and small-screen triumphs. Below, we delve into some of the standout movies and TV shows that are making waves. This insight aims to inspire viewers to reconsider these titles before finalizing their awards ballots.

The Envelope Selects Top Movies of 2025

• A Little Prayer: Directed by Angus MacLachlan, this intimate drama features David Strathairn as a family man navigating marital challenges. It reflects on themes of spiritual connection through art and everyday kindnesses.
• The Testament of Ann Lee: Mona Fastvold’s biopic revolves around the Shaker leader, played by Amanda Seyfried, and her journey from Manchester to colonial New York, emphasizing the beauty found in faith.
• Sinners: Ryan Coogler’s fresh take on the vampire genre showcases a richly textured Jim Crow Mississippi that captivates audiences beyond its supernatural elements.
• Sorry, Baby: In this heartfelt narrative, Eva Victor explores trauma with humor as the lead character, Agnes, navigates healing after a campus sexual assault.
• One Battle After Another: Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this multifaceted film combines action and political commentary as it follows a revolutionary group confronting their past.
• Nouvelle Vague: A playful homage to the French New Wave, Richard Linklater’s film captures the chaotic essence of filmmaking on the streets of Paris.
• Sirât: Oliver Laxe’s gripping journey across the Moroccan desert follows a father and son searching for a missing loved one, beginning with an unforgettable rave scene.
• Hedda: Nia DaCosta offers a contemporary twist on Ibsen’s classic, revitalizing the role of Hedda Gabler, portrayed by Tessa Thompson, in a bold reimagining.
• Sentimental Value: Joachim Trier’s family drama interweaves two narratives about trauma and storytelling, leaving a profound impact on its audience.
• The Alabama Solution: This documentary by Andrew Jarecki highlights the shocking conditions in Alabama prisons, exemplifying the power of investigative journalism.
• All That’s Left of You: This film emphasizes the Palestinian narrative, balanced between documentary and drama, offering a poignant look at self-determination struggles.

The Envelope Selects Top TV Shows of 2025

• Andor: This political allegory explores rebellion and authority, enhanced by its innovative structure and compelling performances.
• The Rehearsal: Nathan Fielder’s meta-comedy evolves with personal stakes, skillfully weaving humor into complex social themes.
• Adolescence: A visually striking series that examines the pressures young men face, capturing both innocence and danger.
• Elsbeth: Starring Carrie Preston, this comedic legal drama stands out for its humor amidst a familiar genre.
• The Pitt: A medical drama with a real-time narrative structure, showcasing character depth and multiple engaging storylines.
• Dying for Sex: This insightful and comic miniseries follows a woman’s journey of self-discovery while battling cancer.
• Forever: A heartfelt teen romance that reflects nuanced portrayals of youth and relationships in Los Angeles.
• The Gilded Age: Season three brings more depth to the wealthy set of New York, with themes of romance and social climbs.
• The Paper: A workplace comedy centered on the struggles of a local newspaper, imbued with humor and authenticity.
• Pluribus and Paradise: These series delve into post-apocalyptic narratives by focusing on character-driven storytelling in extraordinary circumstances.

In conclusion, the year 2025 has already produced a wealth of artistic ventures across cinema and television. From intimate dramas to groundbreaking documentaries, the selections from El-Balad highlight stories that resonate with audiences and inspire conversations about relevance, empathy, and the human experience.