As 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to take stock of what we’ve seen on the big and small screen. Over the next few days, I’ll be giving some of my picks in a wide variety of categories. Up today, it’s the best international features I saw in 2025.

Before I dive into the top five, I thought I’d give a couple honorable mentions. These were films I liked that just didn’t quite make the cut.

• Belen: This tale from Argentina feels timely and moving. It’s worth checking out.
• Souleymane’s Story: A moving tale of a man trying to make a new life despite some trying circumstances.

No. 5: The Secret Agent
About: This is the official entry from Brazil. It’s a moving and unique tale, running more than two and a half hours. It captures life in Brazil in 1977 and features a great lead performance from Wagner Moura. I really enjoyed this.

No. 4: It Was Just An Accident
About: This is the latest from director Jafar Panahi. It is a unique and powerful story of a few people struggling to overcome the torture and oppression of the past. It offers a unique final act and it’s a powerful journey throughout.

No. 3: No Other Choice
About: This is the latest from Park Chan-wook, based on the novel The Ax from Donald Westlake. Lee Byung-hun is great in the lead role. This is a fascinating and moving black comedy that is one of the most unique films of the year.

No. 2: The Voice of Hind Rajab
About: This is a powerhouse film that focuses on a group of people answering emergency calls from a warzone in Palestine. You watch as they spend agonizing hours trying to arrange a rescue for a little girl whose family was killed. The film relies on actual voice recordings, which makes it hit even harder.

No. 1: Sentimental Value
About: This film from Joachim Trier is a masterpiece. Renate Reinsve gives my favorite lead female performance, while Stellan Skarsgard, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Elle Fanning are all great. This is a powerful and beautiful film. It’s one of my favorites of the year.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.