Beyond the Oscars, what 2025 films are worth the watch?
- Jessica
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
A common question in film circles is this: how many great films have we overlooked simply because they were not in English? Our film writer Jessica highlights three films well worth watching, even without the title of “Academy Award nominee.”
The path of becoming recognized by the Academy Awards is indisputably difficult and, though the awards season is unpredictable to an extent, there are certain films that are more likely to become an Oscars favorite than others. The nominees of the highest category like Best Picture are often a mix of films directed by renowned Western directors, backed by established Hollywood studios or featuring a line of prominent actors/actresses.
While the film selection of the Oscars is evolving, notably with Parasite's (2020) Best Picture win, it is still not expansive enough to recognize the achievements of international directors and actors/actresses. Even popular international films with high ticket sales may not be fairly reflected in the nominations, especially notable in the 2025’s animation category. Popular animation films that were deemed 'snubbed' include Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle, the seventh highest grossing film of 2025, followed by Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, another chart-breaking, critically acclaimed animation.
If this makes you wonder about the underrated hidden gems of 2025 that may be ‘too niche’ or even anti-Oscars, then you are in for a treat: here is a selection of three non-English films that continue to challenge the movie-going experience.
1. What Does That Nature Say to You, dir. Hang Sang-soo
South Korean director Hang Sang-soo has directed and written a tremendous filmography since his debut film in 1996. While his 33rd full length film, What Does That Nature Say to You, may not be his most critically acclaimed film, this 109-minute film manages to present a terrific introduction to this infamous film director and his one-of-a-kind style.
‘Low-budget’ is one of the most prominent features of Hang Sang-soo's films. The film quality is blurry as if filmed with a family camcorder from the 2000s. What Does That Nature Say to You's cast is minimal with only five characters in the entire film and the repeated appearance of Hang's name in multiple behind-the-scenes roles has become a hallmark of his recent films, sparking much discussion across the Internet. The dialogue, often written hours before the shoot as part of his film-making routine, is realistic and down to earth. In a cinematic landscape that is becoming increasingly repetitive and inauthentic, Hang’s stubborn, consistent manner of movie-making might provide you a new perspective on film.
2. Flat Girls, dir. Jirassaya Wongsutin
Hailing from the same production company as the international sensation, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, Flat Girls is the poignant debut of Thai director Jirassaya Wongsutin. The film revolves around the coming-of-age of two best friends, focusing on the minute details of girlhood and friendship.
While Flat Girls is not complex or groundbreaking in its story structure and character development, the relatable dialogue and portrayal of best friends through misunderstandings, reconciliation, and romance offer a heartfelt representation of Southeast Asian female stories on the big screen. The films’ discussions of financial instability, sexual identity, and privilege also provide an insightful glimpse into the issues experienced by the Thai youth.
3. Resurrection, dir. Bi Gan
A film marked by controversy and splitting audience reviews, Resurrection is a love letter to film. This third full-length feature film by Chinese indie director Bi Gan is probably the most internationally recognized film on this list, with its premiere at the Cannes International Film Festival. The film features the popular Chinese actor/singer, Jackson Yee, who impressively stars as five characters including the protagonist, and the renowned Shu Qi, who also released her directorial debut in 2025, as the main female lead.
As the film industry gravitates toward digital releases, Bi Gan defies expectations by releasing a film that is designed for the theatre-going experience. The 159-minute runtime of Resurrection is a slow burn that is not meant to entertain, but an invitation to immerse in four distinct dreams, spanning several decades in China, with the last dream set on the last day of the 20th century.
Resurrection is ambitious, abstract, and driven by stunning cinematography that hits you unexpectedly. While the film shows off the incredible techniques Bi Gan developed throughout his career, at the film’s core also lies the pure, idealistic dream for film that ignited his career. Because, what is film if not the dreamers that continue to bring their imaginations to life?
While the Oscars creates a space to celebrate film, it is ultimately a Hollywood exclusive event. There is a world of great, non-Hollywood films that awaits our discovery. It is only when we look beyond Hollywood and engage with films shaped by diverse cultural, historical, and political backgrounds that we can truly gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art form.
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