As the New Year draws close, one must take time to reflect on the year—at least, that’s what I do. 2025, for me, was a year of challenge and change. I made it through with all the grit and vigor I could muster, and here I am! I never saw myself writing for Awards Daily, or becoming close friends with Sasha and Scott, or being so deeply moved by a show like Welcome to Wrexham that it completely changed the direction of my life.
I won’t be sad to see 2025 go, but even through the challenges, I can say—with so much joy and gratitude—that I finally feel like I’m headed in the right direction. I’m hoping for a happy and wonderful New Year that brings lots of great adventures!
Now, I’m going to get right to it. I was given an assignment this week to share my top movies of the year, along with any other “top” lists I’d like to include as a year-end tribute. I still have many films left to see, as I’m just now receiving screeners, so my lists will be short and subject to change. It’s also no secret that I’m not in love with many of the movies on offer this year—but I’ll do my best! Feel free to throw out your own lists!
Jerm’s Favorite Films of 2025 — So Far…
Hamnet
Wake Up Dead Man
Sinners
The Ballad of Wallis Island
Frankenstein
Sentimental Value
Jerm’s Favorite Performances of 2025 — So Far…
Paul Mescal, Hamnet
Jesse Buckley, Hamnet
Glenn Close, Wake Up Dead Man
Tim Key, The Ballad of Wallis Island
Jacob Elordi, Frankenstein
Jerm’s Favorite TV Series of 2025 — So Far…
Mr. Scorsese
The Gilded Age (Season 3)
Andor (Season 2)
The Studio
Welcome to Wrexham (Season 4)
House of David (Season 2)
For now, I’ll leave you there. I’ve got more films to watch—if I can find the time! Please forgive the shortness of my lists, as well as my lack of presence over the last few days (and probably the rest of the week). There’s been lots of holiday busyness, along with the sudden and unexpected passing of my great-uncle the day after Christmas. He loved Christmas more than anyone I’ve ever known—literally putting up thousands of lights around his house every year. He was blessed with one last Christmas with his family, went to bed that night, and passed peacefully in his sleep. 92 years well lived.
I wish you all the happiest New Year. Reflect on your lives this past year, make plans to adjust what needs working on, and make more time for the things—and people—you love most.
Now make your lists. Go wild. Do whatever!
Be kind, be respectful, and of course… Let’s Talk Cinema!
