The Best Films of the Season, Ranked by Our Critics
From intimate dramas to big-screen spectacle.
It has been an exceptional season at the cinema, with original stories competing strongly against the usual franchise releases.
Our panel of five critics watched more than forty films to produce this ranking.
We scored each film on storytelling, performance, craft and the hardest quality to measure: whether we were still thinking about it a week later.
The top three
Our number one is a quietly devastating family drama that builds to one of the most memorable final scenes in years. Second place goes to an ambitious science-fiction epic that justifies every minute of its running time.
The surprise
A small-budget comedy about a failing bookshop charmed every critic on the panel. It is the film we have recommended most to friends.
The best films stay with you long after the credits roll.
Where to watch
Several of these titles are still in cinemas, while others are now streaming. We will update this list as availability changes.
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