
The Big Picture The Top Five Movies of 2025
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Dec 5, 2025 Chris Ryan, a film writer from The Ringer, and Adam Nayman, a film critic and scholar, join the hosts to dissect the most memorable films of 2025. They delve into the industry's evolving landscape, discussing franchise fatigue and the fascinating emergence of surprise hits. Adam highlights the politically charged 'It Was Just an Accident,' while Chris champions the haunting 'Weapons.' The conversation also touches on the joys and challenges of moviegoing habits in this ever-changing cinematic world.
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Studio Sales Reshape Creative Power
- The Warner Bros. sale saga reveals how studio consolidation can reshape creative decision-making and industry jobs.
- Amanda and Sean worry consolidation benefits a single bidder and invites political and legal theater into media deals.
Sequel Craft Can Reclaim Box Office
- Zootopia 2 proved sequels can be both box-office juggernauts and genuinely good films that attract both kids and nostalgic older viewers.
- Its China performance and cross-generational appeal show franchise longevity still matters when the sequel respects its original's worldbuilding.
Family Test Drives Zootopia 2
- Sean took his daughter to see Zootopia 2 and found the movie exceeded expectations for both kids and adults.
- He highlights how his son had watched the first film multiple times on flights, showing franchise resonance with families.





