American Film Institute Announces Top 10 Films and Television Programs of 2025

The American Film Institute (AFI) has unveiled its list of the ten best films of 2025, which includes notable titles such as “Hamnet,” “One Battle After Another,” “Sinners,” “Frankenstein,” and “Marty Supreme.” The list also features “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” “Bugonia,” “Jay Kelly,” “Train Dreams,” and “Wicked: For Good.” This selection reflects a diverse array of cinematic offerings, ranging from high-budget productions to critically acclaimed independent films. Three titles from Netflix—“Frankenstein,” “Jay Kelly,” and “Train Dreams”—made the cut, while several anticipated films, including “F1,” “Weapons,” and “A House of Dynamite,” were notably absent.

The WrapVariety Magazine

In addition to films, AFI recognized ten television programs, highlighting shows such as “Adolescence,” “Andor,” “Death by Lightning,” “The Diplomat,” “The Lowdown,” “The Pitt,” “Pluribus,” “Severance,” “The Studio,” and “Task.” This year’s selections underscore the increasing prominence of streaming platforms, with Netflix and Apple TV leading the nominations.

Variety Magazine

Jafar Panahi's “It Was Just an Accident” received the AFI Special Award, which honors productions outside the traditional eligibility rules, including international films. This recognition follows Panahi's recent accolades, including the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The AFI Awards are considered a significant indicator of potential success at the Academy Awards, with a historical overlap of around 80% between AFI honorees and Oscar nominees for Best Picture.

The Wrap

Despite the accolades, the absence of several high-profile films from the AFI list has raised eyebrows. Titles such as “F1,” “A House of Dynamite,” and “Wake Up Dead Man” were expected to be strong contenders but failed to secure a spot. Critics argue that these omissions could hinder their chances in the upcoming awards season, particularly at the Oscars.

Variety Magazine

Bob Gazzale, AFI president and CEO, remarked on the significance of the awards, stating, “It is AFI’s honor to celebrate these creative ensembles as one, as together they have proved the power of art in challenging times.” The AFI Awards ceremony is scheduled for January 9, 2026, where honorees will be celebrated.

The Wrap

While the AFI's selections are generally viewed as a reliable predictor for the Oscars, discrepancies exist regarding the films that were omitted. Some industry insiders believe that the evolving landscape of film and television eligibility criteria may have influenced the selection process, complicating the relationship between AFI and the Academy Awards.

Variety Magazine

• “For more than a quarter of a century, AFI Awards has held the flag high for community without competition,” — Bob Gazzale, AFI President & CEO

The Wrap

• “The film selections reflect a robust and varied year in cinema, blending box office heavyweights with formally ambitious works.” — Variety Report

Variety Magazine

The AFI's announcement serves as a precursor to the awards season, setting the stage for discussions and debates surrounding the best films and television programs of the year.

The Wrap