The New York Film Critics Circle is once again stirring up excitement as they unveil their 2025 award winners—and trust us, this year’s picks are bound to spark some heated debates. But here’s where it gets controversial: with last year’s bold choice of The Brutalist as the best film of 2024, the NYFCC has set the bar high, leaving everyone wondering what surprises they’ll deliver this time. Voting is currently underway, and the first awards have already been revealed, setting the stage for a night of cinematic recognition.
Kicking things off, Eephus snagged the title of Best First Film, while The Secret Agent took home the crown for Best International Film. And this is the part most people miss: the early winners also include Benicio del Toro, who won Best Supporting Actor for One Battle After Another, and KPop Demon Hunters, which claimed the title of Best Animated Film. Other standout winners include My Undesirable Friends: Part I – Last Air in Moscow for Best Nonfiction Film and Amy Madigan, who secured Best Supporting Actress for Weapons.
As the night unfolds, The Hollywood Reporter will be updating the list of winners live, so be sure to refresh for the latest announcements. Here’s a quick rundown of the categories and winners revealed so far:
- Best Film: (To be announced)
- Best Director: (To be announced)
- Best Actor: Wagner Moura, The Secret Agent
- Best Actress: (To be announced)
- Best Screenplay: (To be announced)
- Best Supporting Actor: Benicio del Toro, One Battle After Another
- Best Supporting Actress: Amy Madigan, Weapons
- Best Animated Film: KPop Demon Hunters
- Best Cinematography: Sinners
- Best First Film: Eephus
- Best International Film: The Secret Agent
- Best Nonfiction Film: My Undesirable Friends: Part I – Last Air in Moscow
Founded in 1935, the NYFCC is no stranger to making waves in the film industry. Its diverse membership includes critics from daily newspapers, weekly publications, magazines, and qualifying online platforms, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on the year’s best in cinema. Every December, this esteemed group gathers in New York to vote on awards for films released in the previous calendar year.
But here’s the real question: Are the NYFCC’s choices always aligned with popular opinion? While categories like Best Picture, Director, Actor, and Actress are staples, the organization also honors individuals and organizations with special stand-alone awards for their contributions to cinema. From producers and directors to historians and film restorers, these awards celebrate the unsung heroes behind the scenes.
The big celebration will take place in New York this January, where the winners will be honored in style. But before we get there, let’s spark some conversation: Do you think the NYFCC’s picks this year will align with your favorites, or will they leave you scratching your head? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts!
