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In this episode, the Od’ing on Movies Podcast returns with a special year-end tradition: breaking down the Top 10 Movies of 2025. Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson step outside their usual optometry meets cinema format to reflect on a full year of moviegoing, sharing personal rankings, lively debate, and the films that surprised, challenged, and stayed with them long after the credits rolled. From independent passion projects to blockbuster standouts, this bonus episode captures not just what they watched but why these movies mattered.
Top 10 Movies of 2025 (Ranked)
10. ZombieCon Volume One
An independent standout that earned its spot through creativity and grit. Beyond the screen, ZombieCon Volume One represents what is possible when filmmakers bet on themselves. Privately funded and driven by grassroots momentum, it left a strong impression on the hosts as both a movie and a filmmaking journey.
9. Black Phone 2
Building on a strong original, Black Phone 2 leaned into supernatural horror with nostalgic slasher elements. For Dr. Wilson, the sequel succeeded by doing something many follow-ups fail to do—maintaining tension while expanding the story in a meaningful way.
8. The Surfer
A slow-burn psychological thriller that demands attention. Nicolas Cage delivers one of his more restrained performances in a film that thrives on discomfort and ambiguity. This is not a background watch—it rewards viewers who stay locked in.
7. K-Pop Demon Hunters
The surprise hit of the year. With infectious music, strong visuals, and massive cultural reach, K-Pop Demon Huntersproved animation could dominate mainstream conversation. Its rewatch value and broad appeal pushed it high on both lists.
6. The Long Walk
Adapted from a Stephen King story, The Long Walk stood out for its emotional weight and originality. While not an easy rewatch for everyone, its performances and bleak tension made it one of the most impactful films of the year.
5. Superman
A welcome reset for superhero fans. Superman avoids retelling familiar origins and instead jumps straight into action, allowing character and story to breathe. The film also reflects modern themes like public perception and social media pressure, making it feel current and relevant.
4. Begonia
A layered sci-fi experience that kept audiences guessing until the end. Strong performances and an atmosphere of paranoia elevated Begonia into one of the year’s most talked-about films, especially among viewers who enjoy movies that reward close attention.
3. One Battle After Another
Difficult to explain without spoilers—and that is part of its power. Anchored by strong performances and unexpected turns, this film challenged expectations and sparked extended discussion after the credits rolled.
2. Weapons
A bold, character-driven story told from multiple perspectives. Weapons stood out for its structure and ambition, setting itself apart from traditional genre storytelling and leaving the door open for future expansion.
1. Sinners
The clear number one. Sinners transcended genre, blending horror, history, culture, and atmosphere into a fully immersive experience. Both hosts agreed it was not just a movie you watch, but one you feel and one that becomes even richer on a second viewing.
