Mon Dec 08 09:10:00 UTC 2025: Rolling Stone’s Top Movie Performances of 2025: From Unhinged Mothers to Bloodsucking Brothers
Los Angeles, CA – Rolling Stone has released its list of the most unforgettable screen performances of 2025, showcasing a range of actors who left audiences captivated with their portrayals of complex and often eccentric characters. From grieving mothers to fallen angels, and from small-town sleuths to homicidal mobsters, these performances defined a year of outstanding cinema.
The list is topped by Michael B. Jordan, who earns a double mention for his dual role as twin brothers in Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” a Southern gothic tale of blues music and supernatural horror. Jordan’s ability to differentiate the siblings, Smoke and Stack Moore, is hailed as a masterful display of acting prowess.
Jessie Buckley’s portrayal of Agnes, a mother grappling with immense grief in Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of “Train Dreams,” also earns high praise. Buckley’s performance is described as a blend of nuance and raw emotion, leaving audiences deeply moved by her character’s journey of loss and redemption.
Teyana Taylor and Sean Penn earn recognition for their dynamic in Paul Thomas Anderson’s political drama. Jennifer Lawrence is celebrated for her fearless and uninhibited performance as a new mother descending into madness in Lynne Ramsay’s film.
Daniel Day-Lewis, in what could be his final role, is lauded for his return to the screen as a stoic recluse in his son Ronan Day-Lewis’ debut. Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett are recognized for their chemistry and intensity in Steven Soderbergh’s espionage thriller, “Black Bag”.
Joel Edgerton’s portrayal of a quiet and stoic laborer in Clint Bentley’s adaptation of “Train Dreams” receives accolades for its subtle yet powerful performance. Amy Madigan’s unnerving and comedic turn as Aunt Gladys in Zach Cregger’s horror film is highlighted for its perfect balance of camp and creepiness.
Jacob Elordi is praised for his portrayal of “the creature” in Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation, bringing both rage and woundedness to the iconic monster. Lee Byung-hun earns recognition for his comedic and dramatic range as a paper-company manager pushed to desperate measures in Park Chan-wook’s adaptation of “The Ax”.
Margaret Qualley is celebrated for her unique take on a classic gumshoe in Ethan Coen and Tricia Cooke’s sapphic pulp fiction. Keanu Reeves’ unexpected turn as a fallen angel in Aziz Ansari’s comedy earns accolades for its comedic timing and surprising depth.
Finally, Liev Schreiber and Vincent D’Onofrio are recognized for their portrayal of homicidal Hasidic mobster brothers in Darren Aronofsky’s thriller, bringing a dark comedic touch to their roles.
Rolling Stone’s list celebrates the diversity and artistry of screen acting in 2025, showcasing performances that resonated with audiences and critics alike.
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