Netflix has had a pretty intriguing year. Its ad-supported tier, launched last year, has seen substantial growth, and the live TV initiative has broadened to include not only quirky events like hot dog-eating competitions but also WWE programming. Acquiring KPop Demon Hunters from Sony for what feels like pocket change turned out to be a smart decision for Netflix. This animated film about demon-hunting K-pop stars became the most-watched movie in the platform’s history and a global sensation. The sing-along theatrical release sold out, songs from the film dominated the music charts, and we even got Huntr/x in Fortnite and a Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade appearance just months after its debut. But KPop Demon Hunters wasn’t Netflix’s only standout offering this year. Here’s a look at some of the best from 2025.
Sean Combs: The Reckoning
This four-part documentary has two key takeaways: Don’t be a terrible abuser, and never annoy someone who describes themselves as a petty man with money to spare. Directed by Alex Stapleton and produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, this series tracks Sean “P Diddy” Combs’ journey from music video cameo to hip-hop mogul to convicted criminal. Featuring interviews from former associates and friends, it dives into allegations of cheating business partners and even hints at involvement in Tupac Shakur’s murder. This isn’t a light watch—content warnings are warranted—but it offers a stark overview of Combs’ rise and the dark side of the hip-hop industry.
KPop Demon Hunters
There’s been a lot said about KPop Demon Hunters’ brilliance, and much of it speaks for itself.
Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man
Rian Johnson is back with another installment in the Knives Out series, delivering a sharply funny and emotionally engaging whodunit. Daniel Craig shines as Benoit Blanc, joined by an ensemble that includes Josh Brolin as a fiery Catholic priest and Glenn Close as his secretary. Josh O’Connor brings depth as a junior priest struggling with his faith, creating a compelling contrast to Blanc’s cold logic. Together, they weave a tale that explores the role of faith in our lives.
Frankenstein
When Guillermo del Toro is at the helm, you can expect a visually stunning film filled with extravagant sets and costumes. But Frankenstein is more than just a visual feast. With Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his creation, the performances resonate with contemporary themes. It’s about a so-called learned man recklessly using technology to create something he can’t control, resulting in destruction—a narrative that holds various meanings for today’s audience. There are many adaptations of Frankenstein, but watching del Toro bring his vision to life is truly unique.
The Great British Baking Show
I look forward to The Great British Baking Show (known as The Great British Bake Off outside the US) every year. As the days shorten and the seasons change, Baking Show season brings me joy. This year, the show has played around with the format, introducing new twists on the technical challenges where bakers face stripped-back directions. I do wish there were more savory options instead of an overemphasis on sweets, but it’s always entertaining to learn the quirky names the Brits have for their pastries. Seriously, who thought calling an oatmeal bar a flapjack was logical?
Stranger Things
The first half of the final season of Stranger Things is out, and while its quality can be debated, it does have one undeniable aspect: it’s finally coming to a close. The show kicked off strongly by weaving a fun narrative about kids saving the world from troublesome adults. However, that engaging storytelling got a bit lost over nearly a decade between seasons. Thankfully, the Duffer Brothers are bringing us back to the essence of what made the show great—those meddling kids.
Squid Game
Squid Game wraps up this year, continuing its reign as one of Netflix’s flagship hits. Gi-hun / Player 456 (Lee Jung-jae) has returned to Mr. Beast’s Murder Island, determined to expose the orchestrators of the deadly games. Along the way, he befriends a new group of desperate individuals, and just like in the previous seasons, it’s hard to watch the brutal games take their toll.
Death By Lightning
With a presidential term of just under 200 days, James Garfield ranks among the shortest-serving U.S. presidents. Death By Lightning chronicles his rise and tragic end at the hands of an assassin. Like Frankenstein, this Netflix show offers a timely metaphor relevant to current events. It examines how inflammatory political rhetoric, including attacks from Garfield’s own party, can catalyze violence. But what truly shines here are the performances. Michael Shannon brings a relatable quality to Garfield, while Shea Whigham is fantastic as New York Senator Roscoe Conkling. Matthew Macfadyen provides a heartbreaking portrayal of Garfield’s assassin, Charles Guiteau.
The standout moments belong to Nick Offerman as Garfield’s reluctant vice president, Chester A. Arthur. Offerman’s performance is a delight, showcasing a regency-era version of his Ron Swanson character, often appearing drunk, brawling, or raving about sausages. Watching him revel in this role is a blast, and I’d totally tune in for a sitcom featuring him as the lead.
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Ash Parrish
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