Here are the 10 most underrated movies of 2025 (in my opinion):
10 ‘Sovereign’
Directed by Christian Swegal, this tense thriller stars Nick Offerman as a father caught up in the sovereign citizen movement, with Jacob Tremblay playing his conflicted son. The story explores how dangerous beliefs can tear families apart while still showing the love that keeps them bound together. Offerman’s performance has been described as “unnervingly powerful,” capturing both menace and vulnerability. The film builds suspense without ever losing its emotional core. Many reviews called it a gripping mix of family drama and political thriller.
9 ‘The Parenting’
Craig Johnson directs this horror-comedy with a cast that includes Parker Posey, Brian Cox, and Lisa Kudrow. A young couple brings their parents to a weekend retreat, only to discover the house is haunted by a centuries-old spirit. Critics found the film “fast, funny, and spooky in just the right doses.” The family banter adds humor while the ghostly encounters bring real tension. It may not break new ground, but it’s been praised as a sharp and enjoyable crowd-pleaser.
8 ‘Oh, Hi!’
Directed by Sophie Brooks, this dark romantic comedy stars Molly Gordon and Logan Lerman as a couple whose weekend getaway takes a shocking turn. Iris, desperate for a commitment, locks Isaac up in a strange bid to secure his love. The premise sounds wild, but reviews called the film “fresh, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt.” Gordon’s performance in particular was singled out as bold and compelling. Many described it as a love story twisted into something both comic and unsettling.
7 ‘One of Them Days’
This buddy comedy comes from director Lawrence Lamont, with Keke Palmer and SZA in the lead roles. The story follows two friends scrambling to find rent money after it disappears, sending them on a wild city adventure. Critics praised the “sparkling chemistry” between Palmer and SZA, saying it carried the whole film. The humor is quick, modern, and relatable, while the heart of the story lies in the strength of female friendship. Reviewers called it one of the funniest and most energetic comedies of the year so far.
6 ‘Adult Best Friends’
Created by real-life friends Delaney Buffett and Katie Corwin, who also star, this indie comedy looks at how long friendships shift as life changes. The film blends laugh-out-loud moments with honest conversations about growing up. Reviews highlighted the “natural and unforced” chemistry between the two leads. Many viewers felt the movie captured the reality of friendship better than most studio comedies. It was described as “funny, tender, and truthful” all at once.
5 ‘The Penguin Lessons’
Directed by Peter Cattaneo and starring Steve Coogan, this story is based on Tom Michell’s memoir. Set in 1970s Argentina, it tells of an English teacher who rescues a penguin and brings it to school, where the bird becomes a source of joy and hope. Reviews called the film “charming, eccentric, and quietly moving.” Coogan’s dry humor fits perfectly with the offbeat story. Many critics said it was a feel-good film that still carried depth.
4 ‘The Ballad of Wallis Island’
From director James Griffiths, this British dramedy stars Carey Mulligan and Tim Key. The story follows a lonely lottery winner who invites his favorite folk duo to reunite on his private island. Critics described it as “gentle, wistful, and deeply human.” Mulligan’s presence adds gravitas to a film that balances comedy with melancholy. Many reviews said it lingers like a soft song you can’t forget.
3 ‘The Luckiest Man in America’
Directed by Samir Oliveros, this quirky drama stars Paul Walter Hauser as Michael Larson, the real man who beat a TV game show by memorizing its patterns. The film mixes comedy and tragedy as it shows how obsession can bring both fame and ruin. Hauser’s performance has been praised as “funny, layered, and unforgettable.” Critics liked how the film took a bizarre true story and gave it emotional weight. It was described as both entertaining and surprisingly moving.
2 ‘The Surfer’
Lorcan Finnegan directs this surreal psychological thriller, with Nicolas Cage in one of his most unhinged roles in years. Cage plays a father who returns to his childhood beach, only to spiral into obsession and madness. Reviews called the film “wild, unnerving, and impossible to look away from.” Cage’s performance was singled out as a career-highlight, mixing comedy, terror, and pathos. Many critics said it’s the kind of cult film people will talk about for years.
1 ‘Bob Trevino Likes It’
Directed by Tracie Laymon, this heartfelt dramedy stars Barbie Ferreira and John Leguizamo. Inspired by a true story, it follows a young woman who, while searching for her estranged father online, accidentally befriends a stranger with the same name. Critics called it “sincere, touching, and life-affirming.” Ferreira’s performance in particular was celebrated as warm and moving. Many reviews said it’s the kind of small indie film that stays with you long after it ends. This is still my favorite film of the year (so far).