IGN's Top Reviewed Movies of 2025

IGN's roster of critics identified sixteen films in 2025 that received their highest scores of 9 or 10. Only two films achieved a perfect score of 10. The list demonstrates a strong reception for horror movies and independent films, though the most consistent factor among the selections is the involvement of celebrated directors.

The highest-rated films include adaptations of classic literature, sequels to beloved franchises, and original animated features. The critics noted that Paul Thomas Anderson, Spike Lee, Guillermo del Toro, Ryan Coogler, and Kelly Reichardt were among the directors represented.

Two films achieved the maximum rating of 10, marking them as masterpieces according to the publication's scale. The first is Guillermo del Toro's long-awaited adaptation of Frankenstein. The film is described as a "crowning achievement" for the director and one of the most effective adaptations of the Mary Shelley story ever filmed.

Del Toro's approach focuses on tragedy, romance, and redemption rather than pure horror. While the film contains gore and creepy moments, the narrative centers on why violence feels inevitable and what is required to stop it. Oscar Isaac plays Victor Frankenstein, while Charles Dance portrays his father. Jacob Elordi plays the Creature in a performance noted for channeling the body work of Doug Jones.

The second perfect score went to 28 Years Later, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. This sequel revisits post-apocalyptic Britain and introduces the Alpha, a subspecies of the Infected who can procreate. These "crazy-ripped, nigh invincible hulks" increase tension whenever they appear on screen.

The film explores themes of violence begetting violence, following generations of young Brits who have only known life with the Rage Virus. The narrative includes montages of child soldiers and war poetry, highlighting the haunting quality of a society that lionizes the hunter role.

Several horror and thriller films received a score of 9, showcasing the genre's strength in 2025. Ryan Coogler's Sinners explores the humanity within monsters. The film depicts vampires as seductive, sexual creatures with a hive mind. The narrative suggests that within vampire society, individuals are accepted regardless of skin color, contrasting with the racism and senseless hatred present in the human world.

Zach Cregger's Weapons is a darkly funny horror-thriller that examines an entire community. The film utilizes a time-scrambling chapter structure to reveal the mystery of a mass disappearance in a small town. This structure allows every character to shine and provides a tremendous sense of scope despite the relatively small setting.

Another notable entry is Elio, a Pixar Animation film. Despite being a box office bomb, the film was praised for its incisive humor, radiant animation, and peculiar alien characters. It is described as one of the studio's most poignant projects, offering heartfelt insight into universal sorrows and joys.

The throughline connecting the best-reviewed movies of 2025 is the caliber of the filmmakers involved. The list features works from Paul Thomas Anderson, Spike Lee, Guillermo del Toro, Ryan Coogler, and Kelly Reichardt, among others. The critics observed that great directors usually make great movies.

This trend held true across various genres, from the high-concept sci-fi of 28 Years Later to the intimate storytelling found in Elio. The involvement of these established auteurs provided a baseline of quality that resonated with reviewers throughout the year.