- - 'Avatar 3' is cool to look at but frustrating to watch – Review

Brian Truitt, USA TODAYDecember 16, 2025 at 6:01 AM

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There’s nothing like the first 10 minutes of an “Avatar” movie.

It’s an immediate and immersive endorphin hit seeing a visually snazzy world of blue aliens and incredible creatures unlike anything else on screen. But then comes the other three-plus hours.

“Avatar: Fire and Ash” (★★½ out of four; rated PG-13; in theaters Dec. 19), James Cameron’s third adventure in his blockbuster sci-fi franchise, is just as cool a watch as the previous films, yet also as narratively frustrating. Endless subplots, scattershot character development and borrowed story beats backfire on “Fire and Ash,” although it does benefit from an unhinged but relatable villain whose presence keeps it interesting.

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Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) and Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) face new obstacles and a variety of enemies in "Avatar: Fire and Ash," the third sci-fi adventure in James Cameron's blockbuster franchise.

The last film ended with former Marine-turned-Na’vi warrior Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), his wife Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) and their family scoring a key defeat over the evil corporation/military group wanting to colonize Pandora to be a new home for humanity. But the couple’s eldest son died in the battle, and loved ones are still grieving as “Fire and Ash” opens.

Jake and Co. hitch a ride with the Wind Traders, a crew of Na’vi who ride jellyfish-y zeppelins through the skies, to take their quasi-adopted human kid Spider (Jack Champion) back to their clan’s home. But they’re suddenly attacked by the Ash People, a bunch of raiders led by their wild-eyed, face-painted leader Varang (Oona Chaplin), and it leads to the Sully family being separated, “Empire Strikes Back” style.

Everybody’s got their issues. Jake questions his place as a high-profile Na'vi champion of sorts but is also being hunted by his former commander, cloned military man/Na’vi hybrid Quaritch (Stephen Lang). Neytiri hates all things human so she has some complicated emotions when it comes to Spider. Teen Kiri (Sigourney Weaver) tries and fails to commune with Eywa, the Na’vi deity that exists in the natural elements of the planet. Meanwhile Lo’ak (Britain Dalton) is mainly concerned with helping his buddy Payakan, a young outcast of the whale-like Tulkun species.

While the movie juggles all these things with varying degrees of success, the plot mainly centers on two supporting players. Spider (who’s Quaritch’s son, by the way) ends up being able to breathe Pandoran air, which is a game-changer for the humans who want to take over Pandora. And Varang, who despises Eywa for not helping when a volcano wiped out her clan’s home, becomes an absolute menace when she partners up with Quaritch and the antagonistic humans. Without her, this film would be a chore to endure.

Varang (Oona Chaplin) leads the Ash People in an aerial assault in "Avatar: Fire and Ash."

“Avatar” movies have never been shabby to look at, and “Fire and Ash” combines stunning special effects with great performance-capture turns by Worthington, Saldaña and Chaplin. There’s a daring rescue mission that’s honestly one of the best action sequences ever in an "Avatar," climactic in its splendor, catharsis and crowd-pleasing nature. Then you look at the clock and realize there’s still another hour to go.

You are in fact seeing double. Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers who return to their Mississippi hometown to open up a juke joint in Ryan Coogler's "Sinners." Here's how the horror movie ranks against the rest of the year's best movies.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PR3T.zVEmcss8RFSrFUZbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD00Mzg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9b30020c6cd890015b19b37fc0991e82 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

You are in fact seeing double. Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers who return to their Mississippi hometown to open up a juke joint in Ryan Coogler's "Sinners." Here's how the horror movie ranks against the rest of the year's best movies.

">You are in fact seeing double. Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers who return to their Mississippi hometown to open up a juke joint in Ryan Coogler's "Sinners." Here's how the horror movie ranks against the rest of the year's best movies.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PR3T.zVEmcss8RFSrFUZbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD00Mzg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9b30020c6cd890015b19b37fc0991e82 class=caas-img>30. "Him": Franchise star Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans, left) tests rookie Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) at his remote training camp to see if he's ready to be the next San Antonio Saviors quarterback in the bizarre and trippy football horror movie.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>30. "Him": Franchise star Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans, left) tests rookie Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) at his remote training camp to see if he's ready to be the next San Antonio Saviors quarterback in the bizarre and trippy football horror movie.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/337e0o9zgM4p7RFlHn8G_w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0e85ce5b7a1ad71d36ad5966946e8c58 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

30. "Him": Franchise star Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans, left) tests rookie Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) at his remote training camp to see if he's ready to be the next San Antonio Saviors quarterback in the bizarre and trippy football horror movie.

">30. "Him": Franchise star Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans, left) tests rookie Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) at his remote training camp to see if he's ready to be the next San Antonio Saviors quarterback in the bizarre and trippy football horror movie.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/337e0o9zgM4p7RFlHn8G_w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0e85ce5b7a1ad71d36ad5966946e8c58 class=caas-img>29. "The Testament of Ann Lee": Amanda Seyfried (center) stars as Ann Lee, the charismatic founder of the Shakers religious movement and a somewhat controversial figure in 18th-century America, in the engrossing historical musical drama.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>29. "The Testament of Ann Lee": Amanda Seyfried (center) stars as Ann Lee, the charismatic founder of the Shakers religious movement and a somewhat controversial figure in 18th-century America, in the engrossing historical musical drama.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_JGPdVA5eu7L5.bLjremsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ee4259851a6dd5be268924f296461786 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

29. "The Testament of Ann Lee": Amanda Seyfried (center) stars as Ann Lee, the charismatic founder of the Shakers religious movement and a somewhat controversial figure in 18th-century America, in the engrossing historical musical drama.

">29. "The Testament of Ann Lee": Amanda Seyfried (center) stars as Ann Lee, the charismatic founder of the Shakers religious movement and a somewhat controversial figure in 18th-century America, in the engrossing historical musical drama.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_JGPdVA5eu7L5.bLjremsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ee4259851a6dd5be268924f296461786 class=caas-img>28. "Sorry, Baby": Eva Victor writes, directs and stars in the funny, moving dramedy as a college literature professor still battling the psychological effects years after being sexually assaulted by her teacher.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>28. "Sorry, Baby": Eva Victor writes, directs and stars in the funny, moving dramedy as a college literature professor still battling the psychological effects years after being sexually assaulted by her teacher.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pD9IIrM31wxNi7NKb17L1Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d211b29f1605d845ca05e2bbcea50a11 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

28. "Sorry, Baby": Eva Victor writes, directs and stars in the funny, moving dramedy as a college literature professor still battling the psychological effects years after being sexually assaulted by her teacher.

">28. "Sorry, Baby": Eva Victor writes, directs and stars in the funny, moving dramedy as a college literature professor still battling the psychological effects years after being sexually assaulted by her teacher.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pD9IIrM31wxNi7NKb17L1Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d211b29f1605d845ca05e2bbcea50a11 class=caas-img>27. "Good Boy": The most innovative horror movie of the year stars, yes, a pooch. Indy the dog is a canine best friend whose owner is haunted by a dark spirit in a scary movie that's equally unsettling and thoughtful.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>27. "Good Boy": The most innovative horror movie of the year stars, yes, a pooch. Indy the dog is a canine best friend whose owner is haunted by a dark spirit in a scary movie that's equally unsettling and thoughtful.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hcpF21sqLfcAt9PYBy1zZA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02MjE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c7f21d44ada02a98e7be0caa40246d25 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

27. "Good Boy": The most innovative horror movie of the year stars, yes, a pooch. Indy the dog is a canine best friend whose owner is haunted by a dark spirit in a scary movie that's equally unsettling and thoughtful.

">27. "Good Boy": The most innovative horror movie of the year stars, yes, a pooch. Indy the dog is a canine best friend whose owner is haunted by a dark spirit in a scary movie that's equally unsettling and thoughtful.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hcpF21sqLfcAt9PYBy1zZA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02MjE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c7f21d44ada02a98e7be0caa40246d25 class=caas-img>26. "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning": Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) goes to extremes to battle a villainous AI and save the world, including hanging out of a plane, in the thrilling franchise installment wrapping up a 30-year storyline.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>26. "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning": Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) goes to extremes to battle a villainous AI and save the world, including hanging out of a plane, in the thrilling franchise installment wrapping up a 30-year storyline.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tugoVveT2v62LZcZlehzuA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/fd5beaeb66eaccc190212fc19671bcfe class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

26. "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning": Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) goes to extremes to battle a villainous AI and save the world, including hanging out of a plane, in the thrilling franchise installment wrapping up a 30-year storyline.

">26. "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning": Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) goes to extremes to battle a villainous AI and save the world, including hanging out of a plane, in the thrilling franchise installment wrapping up a 30-year storyline.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tugoVveT2v62LZcZlehzuA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/fd5beaeb66eaccc190212fc19671bcfe class=caas-img>25. "How to Train Your Dragon": Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) ride high with their Night Fury friend Toothless in the live-action remake, a coming-of-age movie filled with great flying sequences and all the feels.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>25. "How to Train Your Dragon": Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) ride high with their Night Fury friend Toothless in the live-action remake, a coming-of-age movie filled with great flying sequences and all the feels.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/gSHr0l98iPrdvK_L1LoKFQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f0c098cd1a3b08456d435d59b93e3e6e class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

25. "How to Train Your Dragon": Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) ride high with their Night Fury friend Toothless in the live-action remake, a coming-of-age movie filled with great flying sequences and all the feels.

">25. "How to Train Your Dragon": Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) ride high with their Night Fury friend Toothless in the live-action remake, a coming-of-age movie filled with great flying sequences and all the feels.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/gSHr0l98iPrdvK_L1LoKFQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MTE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f0c098cd1a3b08456d435d59b93e3e6e class=caas-img>24. “The Secret Agent”: In the 1970s-set political thriller, Wagner Moura is terrific as a Brazilian researcher hunted by mercenary killers, who aims to escape the country's ruthless dictatorship with his son.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>24. “The Secret Agent”: In the 1970s-set political thriller, Wagner Moura is terrific as a Brazilian researcher hunted by mercenary killers, who aims to escape the country's ruthless dictatorship with his son.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/esVT3XdGhD29ru1RjbjINw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fd1f026df20d2bc4c84bc6a43cfcf74 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

24. “The Secret Agent”: In the 1970s-set political thriller, Wagner Moura is terrific as a Brazilian researcher hunted by mercenary killers, who aims to escape the country's ruthless dictatorship with his son.

">24. “The Secret Agent”: In the 1970s-set political thriller, Wagner Moura is terrific as a Brazilian researcher hunted by mercenary killers, who aims to escape the country's ruthless dictatorship with his son.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/esVT3XdGhD29ru1RjbjINw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fd1f026df20d2bc4c84bc6a43cfcf74 class=caas-img>23. "One Battle After Another": When an old enemy resurfaces for vengeful reasons, an ex-revolutionary (Leonardo DiCaprio) scrambles to find his daughter when she goes missing in Paul Thomas Anderson's timely action thriller.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>23. "One Battle After Another": When an old enemy resurfaces for vengeful reasons, an ex-revolutionary (Leonardo DiCaprio) scrambles to find his daughter when she goes missing in Paul Thomas Anderson's timely action thriller.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ne9wSRqXa59lXvl2xwwtCw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8b29cc5d5e5c987f5ff1a6fe1a1ba400 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

23. "One Battle After Another": When an old enemy resurfaces for vengeful reasons, an ex-revolutionary (Leonardo DiCaprio) scrambles to find his daughter when she goes missing in Paul Thomas Anderson's timely action thriller.

">23. "One Battle After Another": When an old enemy resurfaces for vengeful reasons, an ex-revolutionary (Leonardo DiCaprio) scrambles to find his daughter when she goes missing in Paul Thomas Anderson's timely action thriller.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ne9wSRqXa59lXvl2xwwtCw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8b29cc5d5e5c987f5ff1a6fe1a1ba400 class=caas-img>22. "In Your Dreams": The lively animated fantasy comedy centers on young girl Stevie and her little brother Elliot, who team up with snarky stuffed giraffe Baloney Tony to find the mythical Sandman and make a wish to save their parents' marriage.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>22. "In Your Dreams": The lively animated fantasy comedy centers on young girl Stevie and her little brother Elliot, who team up with snarky stuffed giraffe Baloney Tony to find the mythical Sandman and make a wish to save their parents' marriage.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/WLKV17.sbr2i7UzDkYZpSw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7b9a48a961355928c020a8acf8b2f0ac class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

22. "In Your Dreams": The lively animated fantasy comedy centers on young girl Stevie and her little brother Elliot, who team up with snarky stuffed giraffe Baloney Tony to find the mythical Sandman and make a wish to save their parents' marriage.

">22. "In Your Dreams": The lively animated fantasy comedy centers on young girl Stevie and her little brother Elliot, who team up with snarky stuffed giraffe Baloney Tony to find the mythical Sandman and make a wish to save their parents' marriage.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/WLKV17.sbr2i7UzDkYZpSw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7b9a48a961355928c020a8acf8b2f0ac class=caas-img>21. "Sentimental Value": Renate Reinsve (left) and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas star in Joachim Trier's moving French dramedy as sisters dealing with the emotional consequences of their estranged father making his comeback movie about their family.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>21. "Sentimental Value": Renate Reinsve (left) and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas star in Joachim Trier's moving French dramedy as sisters dealing with the emotional consequences of their estranged father making his comeback movie about their family.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/V8o5cLOWMQpYCcs0Br7ywQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02NzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4f98935c03c00ce85c9bb0f8db9784fa class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

21. "Sentimental Value": Renate Reinsve (left) and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas star in Joachim Trier's moving French dramedy as sisters dealing with the emotional consequences of their estranged father making his comeback movie about their family.

">21. "Sentimental Value": Renate Reinsve (left) and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas star in Joachim Trier's moving French dramedy as sisters dealing with the emotional consequences of their estranged father making his comeback movie about their family.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/V8o5cLOWMQpYCcs0Br7ywQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02NzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4f98935c03c00ce85c9bb0f8db9784fa class=caas-img>20. "Train Dreams": The absorbing period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a logger working on building the railroad in the Pacific Northwest whose job keeps him away for long periods from his wife and life.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>20. "Train Dreams": The absorbing period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a logger working on building the railroad in the Pacific Northwest whose job keeps him away for long periods from his wife and life.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zQ.QfQvWy_iQpj_uyIlmLQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e12c052402b0c96552f968ca63361ae4 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

20. "Train Dreams": The absorbing period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a logger working on building the railroad in the Pacific Northwest whose job keeps him away for long periods from his wife and life.

">20. "Train Dreams": The absorbing period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a logger working on building the railroad in the Pacific Northwest whose job keeps him away for long periods from his wife and life.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zQ.QfQvWy_iQpj_uyIlmLQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e12c052402b0c96552f968ca63361ae4 class=caas-img>19. “Blue Moon”: Richard Linklater's dishy 1940s-set dramedy centers on lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) trying to save his pride and career at the premiere afterparty celebrating his former collaborator Richard Rodgers' musical "Oklahoma!"

" style=padding-bottom:56%>19. “Blue Moon”: Richard Linklater's dishy 1940s-set dramedy centers on lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) trying to save his pride and career at the premiere afterparty celebrating his former collaborator Richard Rodgers' musical "Oklahoma!"

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TVetywqrqAMfe4K1ZGXM3w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0e3e545ae72e465e4e967c82f105ac5d class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

19. “Blue Moon”: Richard Linklater's dishy 1940s-set dramedy centers on lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) trying to save his pride and career at the premiere afterparty celebrating his former collaborator Richard Rodgers' musical "Oklahoma!"

">19. “Blue Moon”: Richard Linklater's dishy 1940s-set dramedy centers on lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) trying to save his pride and career at the premiere afterparty celebrating his former collaborator Richard Rodgers' musical "Oklahoma!"

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TVetywqrqAMfe4K1ZGXM3w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0e3e545ae72e465e4e967c82f105ac5d class=caas-img>18. "28 Years Later": Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes, left) shows Spike (Alfie Williams) how he honors the victims of the infected in a horror sequel that's a thoughtful exploration of family, tribalism and remembering the dead.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>18. "28 Years Later": Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes, left) shows Spike (Alfie Williams) how he honors the victims of the infected in a horror sequel that's a thoughtful exploration of family, tribalism and remembering the dead.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/af4TUEt1XJMg5qc6OubJjg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8c36425a2a6ecaf4ee39106cf55b3052 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

18. "28 Years Later": Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes, left) shows Spike (Alfie Williams) how he honors the victims of the infected in a horror sequel that's a thoughtful exploration of family, tribalism and remembering the dead.

">18. "28 Years Later": Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes, left) shows Spike (Alfie Williams) how he honors the victims of the infected in a horror sequel that's a thoughtful exploration of family, tribalism and remembering the dead.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/af4TUEt1XJMg5qc6OubJjg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8c36425a2a6ecaf4ee39106cf55b3052 class=caas-img>17. "Magazine Dreams": In Elijah Bynum's intoxicating cautionary tale, Killian Maddox (Jonathan Majors) is a socially awkward bodybuilder dealing with past traumas and wanting to make a human connection who goes down an extraordinarily bad path.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>17. "Magazine Dreams": In Elijah Bynum's intoxicating cautionary tale, Killian Maddox (Jonathan Majors) is a socially awkward bodybuilder dealing with past traumas and wanting to make a human connection who goes down an extraordinarily bad path.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n.uBK7SiBBA27ORrnZxxdA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/95dde175bbb6fb7ac7e734c75dbaa02e class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

17. "Magazine Dreams": In Elijah Bynum's intoxicating cautionary tale, Killian Maddox (Jonathan Majors) is a socially awkward bodybuilder dealing with past traumas and wanting to make a human connection who goes down an extraordinarily bad path.

">17. "Magazine Dreams": In Elijah Bynum's intoxicating cautionary tale, Killian Maddox (Jonathan Majors) is a socially awkward bodybuilder dealing with past traumas and wanting to make a human connection who goes down an extraordinarily bad path.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n.uBK7SiBBA27ORrnZxxdA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/95dde175bbb6fb7ac7e734c75dbaa02e class=caas-img>16. "Ballerina": As a newbie assassin, Ana de Armas is a one-woman wrecking crew – and shares screen time with John Wick himself, Keanu Reeves. It's an impressive franchise spinoff packed with stellar brawls, superb gunfights and a nifty flamethrower faceoff.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>16. "Ballerina": As a newbie assassin, Ana de Armas is a one-woman wrecking crew – and shares screen time with John Wick himself, Keanu Reeves. It's an impressive franchise spinoff packed with stellar brawls, superb gunfights and a nifty flamethrower faceoff.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sJyER91eC6TyliYl4QQkgA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7bbbcb41a2fec39ea945a0a0f684bd9b class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

16. "Ballerina": As a newbie assassin, Ana de Armas is a one-woman wrecking crew – and shares screen time with John Wick himself, Keanu Reeves. It's an impressive franchise spinoff packed with stellar brawls, superb gunfights and a nifty flamethrower faceoff.

">16. "Ballerina": As a newbie assassin, Ana de Armas is a one-woman wrecking crew – and shares screen time with John Wick himself, Keanu Reeves. It's an impressive franchise spinoff packed with stellar brawls, superb gunfights and a nifty flamethrower faceoff.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sJyER91eC6TyliYl4QQkgA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7bbbcb41a2fec39ea945a0a0f684bd9b class=caas-img>15. "Left-Handed Girl": A 5-year-old Taiwanese girl (Nina Ye) and her older sister (Shih-Yuan Ma) move from the countryside back to Taipei with their mom, a return that brings financial and personal struggles in a touching slice-of-life drama.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>15. "Left-Handed Girl": A 5-year-old Taiwanese girl (Nina Ye) and her older sister (Shih-Yuan Ma) move from the countryside back to Taipei with their mom, a return that brings financial and personal struggles in a touching slice-of-life drama.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OVboKRiLsbohqIb2jxAvnQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6aadb9f221579568661497e28a1cdffa class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

15. "Left-Handed Girl": A 5-year-old Taiwanese girl (Nina Ye) and her older sister (Shih-Yuan Ma) move from the countryside back to Taipei with their mom, a return that brings financial and personal struggles in a touching slice-of-life drama.

">15. "Left-Handed Girl": A 5-year-old Taiwanese girl (Nina Ye) and her older sister (Shih-Yuan Ma) move from the countryside back to Taipei with their mom, a return that brings financial and personal struggles in a touching slice-of-life drama.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OVboKRiLsbohqIb2jxAvnQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6aadb9f221579568661497e28a1cdffa class=caas-img>14. "The Perfect Neighbor": Told through police bodycam footage, the gripping, heartbreaking documentary chronicles hostilities between an older white woman and the Black parents and children living around her, leading to a tragedy that shakes their neighborhood.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>14. "The Perfect Neighbor": Told through police bodycam footage, the gripping, heartbreaking documentary chronicles hostilities between an older white woman and the Black parents and children living around her, leading to a tragedy that shakes their neighborhood.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MHhMSb1WrxQvmzEbdDsyRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3e3048bfb0089c6fe3dcb3e523f01058 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

14. "The Perfect Neighbor": Told through police bodycam footage, the gripping, heartbreaking documentary chronicles hostilities between an older white woman and the Black parents and children living around her, leading to a tragedy that shakes their neighborhood.

">14. "The Perfect Neighbor": Told through police bodycam footage, the gripping, heartbreaking documentary chronicles hostilities between an older white woman and the Black parents and children living around her, leading to a tragedy that shakes their neighborhood.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MHhMSb1WrxQvmzEbdDsyRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3e3048bfb0089c6fe3dcb3e523f01058 class=caas-img>13. "Frankenstein": Elizabeth (Mia Goth) shares a moment with the newborn Creature (Jacob Elordi), who confronts his maker in epic fashion in Guillermo del Toro's gorgeous, thoughtful and moving adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary work.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>13. "Frankenstein": Elizabeth (Mia Goth) shares a moment with the newborn Creature (Jacob Elordi), who confronts his maker in epic fashion in Guillermo del Toro's gorgeous, thoughtful and moving adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary work.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Z7v.6p.jsExSKwoLcj3q0g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3ee50e7e96a81c90f922e0930c81d52c class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

13. "Frankenstein": Elizabeth (Mia Goth) shares a moment with the newborn Creature (Jacob Elordi), who confronts his maker in epic fashion in Guillermo del Toro's gorgeous, thoughtful and moving adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary work.

">13. "Frankenstein": Elizabeth (Mia Goth) shares a moment with the newborn Creature (Jacob Elordi), who confronts his maker in epic fashion in Guillermo del Toro's gorgeous, thoughtful and moving adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary work.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Z7v.6p.jsExSKwoLcj3q0g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3ee50e7e96a81c90f922e0930c81d52c class=caas-img>12. "Nuremberg": Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek, left) and imprisoned Nazi leader Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) match wits in James Vanderbilt's stirring combo of post-World War II historical thriller and courtroom drama.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>12. "Nuremberg": Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek, left) and imprisoned Nazi leader Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) match wits in James Vanderbilt's stirring combo of post-World War II historical thriller and courtroom drama.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XP0Fz0Qbo.FlP3E9oOHkpA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8150593efd5bf358fe1cd91534fb759f class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

12. "Nuremberg": Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek, left) and imprisoned Nazi leader Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) match wits in James Vanderbilt's stirring combo of post-World War II historical thriller and courtroom drama.

">12. "Nuremberg": Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek, left) and imprisoned Nazi leader Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) match wits in James Vanderbilt's stirring combo of post-World War II historical thriller and courtroom drama.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XP0Fz0Qbo.FlP3E9oOHkpA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8150593efd5bf358fe1cd91534fb759f class=caas-img>11. "Jay Kelly:" Movie legend Jay (George Clooney) has a heart-to-heart with his oldest daughter (Riley Keough) in Noah Baumbach's charming character study of a celebrity realizing that he's always put work ahead of loved ones.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>11. "Jay Kelly:" Movie legend Jay (George Clooney) has a heart-to-heart with his oldest daughter (Riley Keough) in Noah Baumbach's charming character study of a celebrity realizing that he's always put work ahead of loved ones.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5FHPXLIA.PW5o9k4qZfcNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03NDU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d5bee779e9cd2922931fea16b654aee6 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

11. "Jay Kelly:" Movie legend Jay (George Clooney) has a heart-to-heart with his oldest daughter (Riley Keough) in Noah Baumbach's charming character study of a celebrity realizing that he's always put work ahead of loved ones.

">11. "Jay Kelly:" Movie legend Jay (George Clooney) has a heart-to-heart with his oldest daughter (Riley Keough) in Noah Baumbach's charming character study of a celebrity realizing that he's always put work ahead of loved ones.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5FHPXLIA.PW5o9k4qZfcNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03NDU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d5bee779e9cd2922931fea16b654aee6 class=caas-img>10. "Weapons": A schoolteacher (Julia Garner) becomes a local pariah when every kid but one in her class mysteriously disappears overnight in a provocative, genre-defying horror flick that boasts unhinged gore and a delightfully dark sense of humor.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>10. "Weapons": A schoolteacher (Julia Garner) becomes a local pariah when every kid but one in her class mysteriously disappears overnight in a provocative, genre-defying horror flick that boasts unhinged gore and a delightfully dark sense of humor.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7IR5qmdgMWdVVZ7bpsX3tA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/a08845daf0d489def4603a30eda43203 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

10. "Weapons": A schoolteacher (Julia Garner) becomes a local pariah when every kid but one in her class mysteriously disappears overnight in a provocative, genre-defying horror flick that boasts unhinged gore and a delightfully dark sense of humor.

">10. "Weapons": A schoolteacher (Julia Garner) becomes a local pariah when every kid but one in her class mysteriously disappears overnight in a provocative, genre-defying horror flick that boasts unhinged gore and a delightfully dark sense of humor.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7IR5qmdgMWdVVZ7bpsX3tA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/a08845daf0d489def4603a30eda43203 class=caas-img>9. "Is This Thing On?": Will Arnett proves he's got dramatic chops as a middle-aged man on the cusp of a divorce when he finds a needed outlet with stand-up comedy in Bradley Cooper's film about creative catharsis and complicated relationships.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>9. "Is This Thing On?": Will Arnett proves he's got dramatic chops as a middle-aged man on the cusp of a divorce when he finds a needed outlet with stand-up comedy in Bradley Cooper's film about creative catharsis and complicated relationships.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/luM8XUN6CiUOvS9swwcQ1Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/40bbbb3bb978badf44220cf2eb0c376f class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

9. "Is This Thing On?": Will Arnett proves he's got dramatic chops as a middle-aged man on the cusp of a divorce when he finds a needed outlet with stand-up comedy in Bradley Cooper's film about creative catharsis and complicated relationships.

">9. "Is This Thing On?": Will Arnett proves he's got dramatic chops as a middle-aged man on the cusp of a divorce when he finds a needed outlet with stand-up comedy in Bradley Cooper's film about creative catharsis and complicated relationships.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/luM8XUN6CiUOvS9swwcQ1Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/40bbbb3bb978badf44220cf2eb0c376f class=caas-img>8. "Superman": The Man of Steel (David Corenswet) isn't happy with his dog Krypto making a mess of the Fortress of Solitude in James Gunn's electric superhero adventure, which relaunched the DC universe and introduced a screen Superman worthy of the name.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>8. "Superman": The Man of Steel (David Corenswet) isn't happy with his dog Krypto making a mess of the Fortress of Solitude in James Gunn's electric superhero adventure, which relaunched the DC universe and introduced a screen Superman worthy of the name.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lpob7PgA0mHr.c2sSEZnQw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4ded69ae4987db8178a0123e7bd07c6b class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

8. "Superman": The Man of Steel (David Corenswet) isn't happy with his dog Krypto making a mess of the Fortress of Solitude in James Gunn's electric superhero adventure, which relaunched the DC universe and introduced a screen Superman worthy of the name.

">8. "Superman": The Man of Steel (David Corenswet) isn't happy with his dog Krypto making a mess of the Fortress of Solitude in James Gunn's electric superhero adventure, which relaunched the DC universe and introduced a screen Superman worthy of the name.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lpob7PgA0mHr.c2sSEZnQw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4ded69ae4987db8178a0123e7bd07c6b class=caas-img>7. "Hamnet": Agnes (Jessie Buckley) comforts her husband, William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal), in director Chloé Zhao’s drama, a heartfelt film about the Bard's family life, the creation of his play "Hamlet" and different ways of dealing with grief.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>7. "Hamnet": Agnes (Jessie Buckley) comforts her husband, William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal), in director Chloé Zhao’s drama, a heartfelt film about the Bard's family life, the creation of his play "Hamlet" and different ways of dealing with grief.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/m9KLhxa5FkjXExj49IYUwg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/34580d86f20fedf0a2035ef3a1983039 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

7. "Hamnet": Agnes (Jessie Buckley) comforts her husband, William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal), in director Chloé Zhao’s drama, a heartfelt film about the Bard's family life, the creation of his play "Hamlet" and different ways of dealing with grief.

">7. "Hamnet": Agnes (Jessie Buckley) comforts her husband, William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal), in director Chloé Zhao’s drama, a heartfelt film about the Bard's family life, the creation of his play "Hamlet" and different ways of dealing with grief.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/m9KLhxa5FkjXExj49IYUwg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/34580d86f20fedf0a2035ef3a1983039 class=caas-img>6. "Marty Supreme": Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) has big dreams of being a ping-pong champ, if his own selfish attitude doesn't derail him first. Josh Safdie's 1950s-set sports comedy is a masterful panic attack of a table-tennis movie.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>6. "Marty Supreme": Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) has big dreams of being a ping-pong champ, if his own selfish attitude doesn't derail him first. Josh Safdie's 1950s-set sports comedy is a masterful panic attack of a table-tennis movie.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VsB6CXSGsvx4dhV2.ob3bQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b3a06acf349e5701b5f4ffb399cd6ebe class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

6. "Marty Supreme": Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) has big dreams of being a ping-pong champ, if his own selfish attitude doesn't derail him first. Josh Safdie's 1950s-set sports comedy is a masterful panic attack of a table-tennis movie.

">6. "Marty Supreme": Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) has big dreams of being a ping-pong champ, if his own selfish attitude doesn't derail him first. Josh Safdie's 1950s-set sports comedy is a masterful panic attack of a table-tennis movie.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VsB6CXSGsvx4dhV2.ob3bQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD01MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b3a06acf349e5701b5f4ffb399cd6ebe class=caas-img>5. "It Was Just an Accident": Vahid Mobasseri plays a mechanic and former Iranian political prisoner who kidnaps his former torturer. Jafar Panahi's thriller is an unforgettable juggling of serious moral questions and clever screwball comedy.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>5. "It Was Just an Accident": Vahid Mobasseri plays a mechanic and former Iranian political prisoner who kidnaps his former torturer. Jafar Panahi's thriller is an unforgettable juggling of serious moral questions and clever screwball comedy.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Cbans.Hng88i1Pg1Om7rXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02Njg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8fd6e842b8e65870a856a778a5a6ac33 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

5. "It Was Just an Accident": Vahid Mobasseri plays a mechanic and former Iranian political prisoner who kidnaps his former torturer. Jafar Panahi's thriller is an unforgettable juggling of serious moral questions and clever screwball comedy.

">5. "It Was Just an Accident": Vahid Mobasseri plays a mechanic and former Iranian political prisoner who kidnaps his former torturer. Jafar Panahi's thriller is an unforgettable juggling of serious moral questions and clever screwball comedy.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Cbans.Hng88i1Pg1Om7rXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02Njg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8fd6e842b8e65870a856a778a5a6ac33 class=caas-img>4. "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery": Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O’Connor) when he's accused of murder in the Southern-fried super-sleuth's most personal and thoughtful case yet.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>4. "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery": Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O’Connor) when he's accused of murder in the Southern-fried super-sleuth's most personal and thoughtful case yet.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dezYVRtVOiSAk1J6cOjQRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/02bfd3ee17d32bc01fdbbef3f251c7b0 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

4. "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery": Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O’Connor) when he's accused of murder in the Southern-fried super-sleuth's most personal and thoughtful case yet.

">4. "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery": Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O’Connor) when he's accused of murder in the Southern-fried super-sleuth's most personal and thoughtful case yet.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dezYVRtVOiSAk1J6cOjQRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/02bfd3ee17d32bc01fdbbef3f251c7b0 class=caas-img>3. "Rental Family": An American expat actor (Brendan Fraser) stands in as the groom for the wedding of a Japanese woman (Misato Morita). Fraser exudes compassion and awkward, earnest charm in director Hikari's fish-way-out-of-water dramedy.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>3. "Rental Family": An American expat actor (Brendan Fraser) stands in as the groom for the wedding of a Japanese woman (Misato Morita). Fraser exudes compassion and awkward, earnest charm in director Hikari's fish-way-out-of-water dramedy.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3diZNwzzPwp6y9wvlpd1Sw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/5f81010d46c0a6d62a57511d4c79d4f2 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

3. "Rental Family": An American expat actor (Brendan Fraser) stands in as the groom for the wedding of a Japanese woman (Misato Morita). Fraser exudes compassion and awkward, earnest charm in director Hikari's fish-way-out-of-water dramedy.

">3. "Rental Family": An American expat actor (Brendan Fraser) stands in as the groom for the wedding of a Japanese woman (Misato Morita). Fraser exudes compassion and awkward, earnest charm in director Hikari's fish-way-out-of-water dramedy.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3diZNwzzPwp6y9wvlpd1Sw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/5f81010d46c0a6d62a57511d4c79d4f2 class=caas-img>2. "Sinners": Southern gangster Smoke (Michael B. Jordan, left) and his guitar-playing cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) endure a horrific night dealing with vampires in Ryan Coogler's devilishly spectacular and absolutely mesmerizing fright fest.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>2. "Sinners": Southern gangster Smoke (Michael B. Jordan, left) and his guitar-playing cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) endure a horrific night dealing with vampires in Ryan Coogler's devilishly spectacular and absolutely mesmerizing fright fest.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FtL.YdmJscisfkanCX5gjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03NzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2e19d4ffe1b5758f8554848b3690e290 class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

2. "Sinners": Southern gangster Smoke (Michael B. Jordan, left) and his guitar-playing cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) endure a horrific night dealing with vampires in Ryan Coogler's devilishly spectacular and absolutely mesmerizing fright fest.

">2. "Sinners": Southern gangster Smoke (Michael B. Jordan, left) and his guitar-playing cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) endure a horrific night dealing with vampires in Ryan Coogler's devilishly spectacular and absolutely mesmerizing fright fest.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FtL.YdmJscisfkanCX5gjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03NzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2e19d4ffe1b5758f8554848b3690e290 class=caas-img>1. "The Life of Chuck": Chuck (Tom Hiddleston) suddenly feels the beat and shares an impromptu dance with a stranger (Annalise Basso) in Mike Flanagan's must-see Stephen King adaptation that warms hearts, captures minds and blows up convention.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>1. "The Life of Chuck": Chuck (Tom Hiddleston) suddenly feels the beat and shares an impromptu dance with a stranger (Annalise Basso) in Mike Flanagan's must-see Stephen King adaptation that warms hearts, captures minds and blows up convention.

" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/F6sPGfy.6LeAllf3spCKUQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0984f48de517256c58a3bf0eb06b333d class=caas-img data-headline="Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025" data-caption="

1. "The Life of Chuck": Chuck (Tom Hiddleston) suddenly feels the beat and shares an impromptu dance with a stranger (Annalise Basso) in Mike Flanagan's must-see Stephen King adaptation that warms hearts, captures minds and blows up convention.

">1. "The Life of Chuck": Chuck (Tom Hiddleston) suddenly feels the beat and shares an impromptu dance with a stranger (Annalise Basso) in Mike Flanagan's must-see Stephen King adaptation that warms hearts, captures minds and blows up convention.

" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/F6sPGfy.6LeAllf3spCKUQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0984f48de517256c58a3bf0eb06b333d class=caas-img>

1 / 31Want to see a great movie? Here are the best films of 2025

You are in fact seeing double. Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers who return to their Mississippi hometown to open up a juke joint in Ryan Coogler's "Sinners." Here's how the horror movie ranks against the rest of the year's best movies.

That’s the thing with these movies. Yes, they look awesome. But the excessive runtimes and spaghetti-on-the-wall storytelling only hold up for so long until there’s diminishing returns. “Fire and Ash” brings up intriguing themes of spirituality, found family and revenge that get lost amid the bombast. And, sure, some characters are truly fleshed out and magnetic amid an expansive cast, yet others you’ve forgotten their names (and don’t really care to remember). Cameron’s epic vibes are still strong, and also all over the place.

Like the others, this “Avatar” will probably make a gazillion dollars, maybe pick up one or two Oscars, and then go back on the pop-culture shelf until it’s time for No. 4. That status quo will work for some but not for all. Because 10 minutes of cinematic bliss is fine for a theme-park ride, less so for 197 minutes in a movie-theater seat.

What is the length of 'Avatar 3'?

"Avatar: Fire and Ash," starring Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña, has a runtime of three hours, 17 minutes. The James Cameron sci-fi adventure is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association "for intense sequences of violence and action, bloody images, some strong language, thematic elements and suggestive material."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Fire and Ash' review – 'Avatar 3' sticks to James Cameron script

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