While the year’s most celebrated films often arrive in the fall—timed perfectly for awards season—the first half of the year tends to bring unexpected discoveries, with surprises that feel fresh and unfiltered by Oscar buzz.
The first six months of 2025 have delivered just that: a mix of breakout comedies, standout indie releases, and remarkable directorial debuts. Here are 10 of our top picks from the year so far.
“The Ballad of Wallis Island”
This whimsical charmer is a crowd-pleaser for just about any type of moviegoer. Packed with quirky humor and heartfelt moments, The Ballad of Wallis Island features a memorable cast: Tim Key is hilarious and endearing as the wandering Charles; Tom Basden plays the perfect deadpan counterpart; and Carey Mulligan brings her signature warmth and wit. With its catchy folk soundtrack and poignant themes of letting go, the film is a small delight. Also from the UK, don’t miss the equally enjoyable Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (now streaming on Peacock). —Bahr
