The Top Performances of 2025

      Our year-end coverage continues as we highlight the standout film performances of 2025. Instead of categorizing them as lead or supporting roles or by gender, we've compiled a list of our 30 favorites, plus a few additional mentions that we couldn't omit. Check out our countdown below and catch up on the films you might have missed here and here.

      30. Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning)

      It's become commonplace to remark on Tom Cruise's dedication to stunt work. What else can be said besides the fact that he literally hung from a biplane for our entertainment? That final segment of wingwalking is among the most audacious stunts in a career filled with incredible feats. For those 20 minutes, The Final Reckoning truly takes flight. Is the rest of the film on par? Certainly not, but that’s beside the point. With eight movies under his belt, Cruise has refined the character of Ethan Hunt. His knack for portraying Hunt as relatable, despite his superhero-like qualities, speaks to his ability to convey genuine fear. It’s always apparent that, deep down, he'd rather not jump from a plane with a flaming parachute. Yet, you know he will. – Christian G.

      29. Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård (Pillion)

      It’s surprising that Harry Melling has the more intriguing career compared to his contemporaries. From his collaborations with the Coen brothers and James Gray to his charming lead role in the delightful Pillion, Melling shines as the awkward Colin, while Alexander Skarsgård stands out as the authoritative Ray, his domineering friend. Their contrasting dynamic creates a poignant counterbalance to the cruel treatment Ray delivers, while Colin's naive joy as he navigates Ray’s volatility adds depth. Their characterizations effectively explore the tension of a timid parking cop dating someone as imposing as Ray. – Kent M. W.

      28. Masaki Suda (Cloud)

      Masaki Suda conveys a fiery intensity through his eyes, portraying Yoshii's relentless ambition in the online reselling world. As events unfold, that fire begins to wane. Is it fear? It’s hard to tell. He's a man striving to maintain composure amid mounting pressures. Suda’s performance, marked by a growing oppressive steeliness, propels Kurosawa’s narrative into darker territory. As Suda gazes into the future, the viewer is left wondering what he truly sees. – Blake S.

      27. Denzel Washington (Highest 2 Lowest)

      In his fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee, Denzel Washington expertly navigates melodrama and tension in Highest 2 Lowest. This remake of Akira Kurosawa's High and Low challenges him to deliver powerful performances amid a weak script and an unusual score, yet Washington continually captivates as a music mogul. He commands the film with his ability to evoke any emotion, establishing himself as the most influential person in every scene. Even if other actors, including a notable A$AP Rocky as the kidnapper, are present, Washington's presence is undeniably dominant. One memorable scene features him shadowboxing in a car while listening to James Brown, a moment that’s utterly captivating. – Mike F.

      26. Ia Sukhitashvili (April)

      In the early moments of April, a man expresses his fury by violently spitting in Nina’s (Ia Sukhitashvili) face. This incident encapsulates the simmering rage surrounding her character, and Sukhitashvili delivers a masterful balance of resolve and tension in every interaction. Tasked with performing abortions swiftly and with conviction, her underlying fear of being too assertive is palpable in her movements and expressions. It’s through domestic vignettes that the film’s exploration of cultural and societal fractures unfolds dramatically. – Soham G.

      25. Tim Robinson (Friendship)

      Tim Robinson’s comedic flair, portraying the frustrated middle-aged man caught in absurd situations, has seamlessly translated to wild narratives. The character of Craig Waterman, tailored by director Andrew DeYoung specifically for him, offers opportunities to expand his comedic persona beyond traditional sketches. While some critics may argue he plays the same role, placing him in a grounded scenario—befriending a cool neighbor (Paul Rudd)—sharply reveals the ordinary man beneath his aggressive humor in both personal life and work. For those who appreciate his erratic Netflix show, this extended character development offers thrilling insights into his journey. – Alistair R.

      24. Ben Whishaw (Peter Hujar’s Day)

      Peter Hujar’s Day, primarily centered on a lengthy discussion about Hujar's daily life, is an art film that risks frustration. However, it manages to engage viewers thanks largely to Ben Whishaw, who demonstrates once again his remarkable range. He effortlessly transitions among diverse roles, leaving an impressive mark as Peter Hujar. His portrayal runs the spectrum—from a perfume-steeped serial killer to