Manny the Movie Guy is revealing his choices for the best films of the year so far—and where you can catch them.
(Click here to see my list)
Superheroes are back in a big way, with Superman and Fantastic Four reviving the genre. Both are still showing in theaters. In the animated category, Disney Pixar’s Elio explores themes of loneliness and is also in theaters, while the inventive The Colors Within can be rented online. Netflix offers K-Pop Demon Hunters, a fun sci-fi musical adventure.
For drama fans, Netflix’s Nonas tells a true-life story featuring Vince Vaughn, while Hulu’s A Nice Indian Boy offers a heartfelt romantic comedy about cultures clashing. My Dead Friend Zoe, available to rent online, focuses on friendship and self-discovery. Also not to be missed is The Life of Chuck, a Stephen King fantasy drama starring Tom Hiddleston.
Action lovers can enjoy F1 The Movie, now in theaters, or Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, which is available to purchase online. Amazon Prime’s Deep Cover blends action and comedy with Orlando Bloom, Nick Muhammad, and Bryce Dallas Howard.
In thrillers, Manny recommends HBO Max’s Companion, a psychological look at AI; Dangerous Animals, a mix of serial killers and sharks; Peacock’s Black Bag, a spy drama from Steven Soderbergh with Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett; and Drop, another Peacock title full of twists.
Horror fans should check out Sinners on HBO Max, a bold mix of music, vampires, and social commentary. Michael B. Jordan stars in dual roles with direction from Ryan Coogler.
“I’m Manny the Movie Guy for NBC Palm Springs.”
Click here to see my favorite films of 2025 so far.
