Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast/Getty Netflix and Paramount’s ongoing war to acquire Warner Bros. is merely further confirmation that the film industry—faced with dwindling post-COVID ticket sales and growing threats from streaming—is in a state of severe flux, its long-term future uncertain. Nonetheless, 2025 was arguably as steady and rich a year in cinema as we’ve seen in a long time, full of American and international productions that illustrated the continuing depth and breadth of the medium. For those willing to leave their couches and head to their local multiplex or art house, there were riches galore to be found, demonstrating that when it comes to diverse, moving, awe-inspiring artistry, there’s still nothing like the big screen. Read more at The Daily Beast.