The fall film festivals delivered a captivating range of cinematic experiences. From Adrien Brody's powerful portrayal of an immigrant architect to Pedro Almodóvar's haunting exploration of friendship and mortality, these films are a testament to the boundless creativity of the industry. This year's lineup presents stories that are intimate yet universal, offering powerful insights into the human condition through diverse voices and bold storytelling. With standout performances from Nicole Kidman, Tilda Swinton, and Adrien Brody, among others, these films are poised to make significant waves during the upcoming awards season.

The fall film festival circuit is always a much-anticipated event, offering a first look at some of the most important, daring, and captivating films of the year. With screenings at Venice, Telluride, and Toronto, this year was no exception. These festivals showcased an impressive array of cinema that explored themes ranging from intimate human struggles to grand, socially impactful narratives. This fall season, a multitude of voices and creative visions emerged, making it an especially vibrant time for cinema.

The eclectic line-up featured everything from the deeply personal to the epic, and each of these films had something to say—about love, about loss, about what it means to belong. Audiences were presented with ambitious sagas, moving character studies, biting social critiques, and a fair share of romance and tension. With a mix of veteran filmmakers and emerging talents, the collection of films resonated with festival-goers and critics alike, emphasizing that cinema still holds the power to evoke raw emotion and generate thought-provoking conversations.

Among the standout films, Nicole Kidman left audiences mesmerized in Halina Reijn’s provocative "Babygirl," a fearless exploration of desire and identity. Petra Costa’s documentary "Apocalypse in the Tropics" shed light on political dynamics in Brazil, delivering an eye-opening exposé of the link between religious influence and governance. Meanwhile, Brady Corbet’s "The Brutalist" tackled immigrant experiences and creative resilience in post-war America, all the while wrapping it in a visually stunning cinematic experience. Additionally, Pedro Almodóvar’s "The Room Next Door" offered an intimate exploration of mortality, showcasing the raw, tender connection between two old friends, while "Anora" delivered a lyrical and emotionally rich journey of self-discovery, resonating deeply with audiences.

What makes these films remarkable is their diversity, both in terms of their subject matter and the unique voices that brought them to life. Whether it’s a compelling love story amidst the chaos of modern dating or a deeply affecting look at an underrepresented community, these films showed us different corners of the world and introduced us to lives we may not have imagined. The beauty of this year’s lineup lies in the boldness with which these stories were told—unflinching, nuanced, and decidedly cinematic.

From Kevin Macdonald’s intimate look into a tumultuous year in the life of John Lennon to Luca Guadagnino’s trippy adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ "Queer," each filmmaker showcased their own voice, making it clear that these stories were made not to pander to expectations, but to invite viewers into a specific, immersive experience. Whether the films featured contemplative character arcs, chilling suspense, or heartwarming resolutions, each left its mark on audiences and will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion during awards season.

With festival buzz propelling these films into the public consciousness, it’s becoming increasingly clear that many will be major contenders in the upcoming awards circuit. But beyond awards, it’s their thematic depth and storytelling prowess that make them significant cultural artifacts. Let’s take a look at the best of this year's fall film festivals and predict how they might fare in the months to come.

Apocalypse in the Tropics

Festivals: Venice, Telluride

Petra Costa returns with an urgent exposé of democracy’s fragile state in Brazil. "Apocalypse in the Tropics" dives deep into the unsettling links between Christian evangelism and political power. Costa deftly navigates both the epic and the intimate, juxtaposing sweeping historical overviews with raw, on-the-ground perspectives. The effect is chilling and eye-opening, reminding viewers that this isn't just a Brazilian phenomenon—it's a global one. — Jonathan Moustakas

Anora

Festivals: Toronto, New York

Mikey Madison delivers a career-defining performance in Sean Baker’s poignant drama “Anora,” where a young woman struggles to rebuild her identity in the wake of profound personal loss. Baker, known for his raw and authentic storytelling, crafts a visually stunning narrative that captures the spirit of resilience amidst adversity. The film feels like an intimate exploration of life’s delicate balance between despair and hope, with Baker’s signature attention to the marginalized giving it an unmistakable authenticity. Madison’s portrayal of Anora is both heartbreaking and empowering—she seamlessly embodies the vulnerability and tenacity required for such a deeply personal role. It’s a quietly powerful film, showcasing Madison’s incredible ability to convey emotion with subtlety and strength. No wonder it’s already being hailed as one of Baker’s most evocative works yet. — Jonathan Moustakas

Babygirl

Festivals: Venice, Toronto

Nicole Kidman steals the show in Halina Reijn’s sultry drama Babygirl, where a successful but restless businesswoman embarks on a provocative relationship with a younger intern (Harris Dickinson). The film pays homage to the erotic thrillers of the '90s but shakes them up with a daring lack of moral judgment. It’s provocative, indulgent, and endlessly entertaining—a showcase of Kidman’s incredible ability to balance vulnerability and assertiveness. No wonder she took home Venice's Best Actress award. — Jonathan Moustakas

The Brutalist

Festivals: Venice, Toronto, NEw York

Brady Corbet's third feature is a sprawling tale of ambition, creativity, and the immigrant experience. In The Brutalist, Adrien Brody gives one of his most powerful performances as a Hungarian Jewish architect who arrives in America post-WWII, struggling to reconcile the ghosts of his past with his present reality. Corbet's use of 70mm cinematography gives this epic story a truly majestic feel—one that speaks to resilience, artistic pursuit, and the sacrifices we make to leave a mark on the world. — Jonathan Moustakas

Conclave

Festivals: Telluride, Toronto

Edward Berger’s Conclave opens the doors to one of the most secretive processes in the world—the election of a new pope. Ralph Fiennes leads this captivating drama, delivering a performance that grapples with deep questions about faith, power, and morality amidst scandal. With a stellar supporting cast including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, Berger paints an intimate yet sweeping portrait of internal struggles faced by those tasked with leading the Catholic Church. — Jonathan Moustakas

Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight

Festivals: Telluride, Toronto

In her directorial debut, Embeth Davidtz adapts Alexandra Fuller's memoir into a poignant story about a young girl navigating the chaos of civil war in Zimbabwe. Don't Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight is a visual delight, with Lexi Venter offering an extraordinary performance as young Bobo. The film captures the complexity of family and history with honesty, reminiscent of The Piano in its heartfelt rawness. — Jonathan Moustakas

Familiar Touch

Festival: Venice

Sarah Friedland debuts with Familiar Touch, a tender exploration of aging, identity, and vulnerability. Kathleen Chalfant stars as an octogenarian moving into an assisted living facility, offering a profound look at the struggles of growing older. Friedland’s eye for detail makes every small moment feel monumental, giving us a window into the joys and hardships of late adulthood with humor and grace. — Jonathan Moustakas

The Friend

Festivals: Telluride, Toronto

Naomi Watts shines in The Friend, a beautifully understated adaptation of Sigrid Nunez's novel. Directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel weave a touching narrative about love and loss, following Watts as she navigates the emotional terrain of grieving her best friend (Bill Murray in flashbacks) while caring for his beloved Great Dane. This film is a sensitive portrayal of friendship's legacy, capturing the ways we continue to hold each other close, even after death. — Jonathan Moustakas

Hard Truths

Festival: Toronto

Mike Leigh returns with Hard Truths, a poignant and biting examination of happiness—who finds it, and at what cost. Marianne Jean-Baptiste delivers a powerful, layered performance as a woman battling against the expectations society has placed on her, while Michele Austin provides a touching counterbalance as her more optimistic sister. Hard Truthscontinues Leigh's tradition of capturing everyday resilience and the deep wounds that come with simply existing. — Jonathan Moustakas

I’m Still Here

Festivals: Venice, Toronto

Walter Salles’ latest feature, I’m Still Here, is an intimate portrayal of resistance against oppression. Adapted from Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s memoir, the film tells the story of a mother (Fernanda Torres) fighting for her family during Brazil’s military dictatorship. The intergenerational aspect—with Fernanda Montenegro playing the older version of Torres’ character—adds layers of depth to this emotional journey, making it a powerful tribute to resilience. — Jonathan Moustakas

The Room next door

Festival: Venice, Toronto, New York

It’s rare to encounter a big-screen drama that looks death in the eye the way Pedro Almodóvar’s lyrical and moving The Room Next Door does. The film is essentially a two-hander, a series of conversations between Martha (Tilda Swinton), who has Stage 3 cervical cancer, and her old friend Ingrid (Julianne Moore), who agrees to help her as she chooses the moment to die. Swinton gives a monumental performance, one that in its raw emotion and pensive power is worthy of comparison to the spirit and virtuosity of Vanessa Redgrave. — Jonathan Moustakas

Nickel Boys

Festivals: Telluride, New York

RaMell Ross brings Colson Whitehead’s powerful novel Nickel Boys to life in his narrative debut. Following two boys incarcerated in a Florida reform school, the film’s poignant storytelling and striking visuals create a deeply affecting experience. Ross’s exploration of memory and trauma gives this story a much-needed authenticity that stretches beyond the screen—a raw depiction of injustice that resonates deeply. — Jonathan Moustakas

One to One: John & Yoko

Festival: Venice

Kevin Macdonald takes us back to 1972 with One to One: John & Yoko, delivering a tender, insightful documentary focused on John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Featuring rare archival footage and a remarkable concert performance, Macdonald captures the magic of their love story alongside the cultural tides of the 1970s. It’s an energizing film that offers fresh perspectives on an iconic couple and their enduring legacy. — Jonathan Moustakas

Queer

Festivals: Venice, Toronto, New York

Luca Guadagnino takes on William S. Burroughs' Queer, turning it into a hypnotic exploration of longing, obsession, and identity. Daniel Craig gives a standout performance as the troubled writer, while Drew Starkey matches his intensity as the object of desire. Shot with Sayombhu Mukdeeprom’s luscious cinematography and paired with a haunting score from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, this film is unforgettable in its boldness and beauty. — Jonathan Moustakas

September 5

Festivals: Venice, Telluride

Tim Fehlbaum's September 5 takes us behind the scenes of ABC's live broadcast of the 1972 Munich Olympics terrorist attacks. Anchored by powerful performances from Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, and Leonie Benesch, the film is a gripping newsroom thriller that addresses the moral responsibilities of journalism under crisis. Fehlbaum blends archival footage with tense re-creations, making September 5 a must-watch for those who value truth in media. — Jonathan Moustakas

Based on the festival buzz, critic reviews, and the sheer power of the performances and narratives, it's possible to make some early predictions on which films will dominate awards season. Nicole Kidman’s performance in "Babygirl" seems almost certain to earn her a Best Actress nomination, if not a win. Kidman’s portrayal of a middle-aged businesswoman who rediscovers herself through an unexpected relationship was powerful and fearless, and her win at Venice only adds to her momentum. Halina Reijn, who directed "Babygirl," could also make waves in the Best Director category given her bold and unflinching vision.

Adrien Brody’s outstanding turn in "The Brutalist" places him as a strong contender for Best Actor. The film’s ambitious nature, both in its epic narrative and visual grandeur, also positions it as a frontrunner for Best Picture, especially with its thematic focus on the immigrant experience, which often resonates deeply with awards voters. Meanwhile, Edward Berger’s "Conclave" has all the elements of a gripping, timely narrative, which could see it competing for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Ralph Fiennes’ layered performance.

Pedro Almodóvar's "The Room Next Door" is likely to bring Tilda Swinton a well-deserved Best Actress nomination. Her portrayal of a terminally ill woman making peace with her past was raw and powerful, capturing the depth of emotion that often resonates with awards voters. The film's intimate storytelling and the strong dynamic between Swinton and Julianne Moore could also see it as a contender for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.

Petra Costa’s "Apocalypse in the Tropics" has a strong shot at Best Documentary Feature, as its socio-political relevance and intimate storytelling captivated audiences, offering a poignant look at modern Brazilian society. Similarly, "One to One: John & Yoko" by Kevin Macdonald is also a powerful contender for Best Documentary, thanks to its archival footage and fresh insight into an iconic relationship, giving it an edge in the competition.

"Anora" has also generated significant buzz, especially for its lyrical exploration of personal growth and heartbreak. It stands as a potential contender for Best Director and Best Cinematography, with its visual beauty and the emotional depth of the story resonating well with audiences. The lead actress's performance has also been widely praised, putting her in strong contention for Best Actress.

In terms of technical awards, "The Brutalist" could see wins for cinematography due to its use of 70mm film and stunning visuals that brought the post-war era to life. Luca Guadagnino’s "Queer," with its dreamlike cinematography by Sayombhu Mukdeeprom and its melancholic score from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, is likely to be a strong contender in both the cinematography and original score categories.

For Best Supporting Actor, Harris Dickinson’s performance in "Babygirl" has generated significant praise. His portrayal of a young intern who challenges a powerful woman’s sense of control was nuanced and charismatic, making him a worthy contender. Meanwhile, "Familiar Touch" could be a dark horse in the Best Original Screenplay category, as Sarah Friedland’s exploration of aging and independence felt both original and deeply moving.

1. The Brutalist – For its epic narrative and Adrien Brody’s powerful performance.

2. Anora – A lyrical and emotionally rich story of self-discovery, bolstered by stunning cinematography.

3. The Room Next Door – Intimate drama about friendship and end-of-life choices; outstanding performance by Tilda Swinton.

4. Babygirl – Nicole Kidman’s fearless performance and Halina Reijn’s directorial vision make it a standout.

5. Apocalypse in the Tropics – A powerful and timely documentary that resonates far beyond Brazil.

6. Queer – Luca Guadagnino’s trippy, visually captivating adaptation.

7. Conclave – Edward Berger’s exploration of faith and power is gripping and timely.

8. One to One: John & Yoko – A fresh perspective on an iconic couple from Kevin Macdonald.

9. Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight – Embeth Davidtz’s directorial debut is both intimate and powerful.

10. The Friend – A beautifully light-handed exploration of grief and friendship.

11. Hard Truths – Mike Leigh’s sharp, poignant examination of happiness and pain.

12. September 5 – A compelling retelling of the 1972 Munich Olympics from a newsroom perspective.

13. Nickel Boys – RaMell Ross’s adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel is raw and moving.

14. Familiar Touch – Sarah Friedland’s sensitive exploration of aging offers a unique perspective.

15. I’m Still Here – Walter Salles’ intimate story of a mother’s resilience is touching but didn’t reach the same heights as other entries.

The fall festivals this year delivered an array of powerful films that pushed boundaries and explored complex, deeply human stories. From Nicole Kidman’s mesmerizing turn in "Babygirl" to the poignant explorations of historical and cultural moments in "The Brutalist" and "Apocalypse in the Tropics," these films remind us why cinema is such an essential part of our collective experience. Films like "Anora" and "The Room Next Door" added layers of emotional depth and introspection, each leaving a lasting impression on audiences with their fearless storytelling and powerful performances.

Each of these films brought something unique to the table, offering insights into the human condition that were as diverse as they were profound. Whether it was the lyrical storytelling of "Anora," the raw confrontation with mortality in "The Room Next Door," or the complex dynamics of love and power in "Babygirl," the festival lineup showcased a stunning variety of narratives that captivated viewers and critics alike.

As awards season approaches, it will be interesting to see which of these films rise to the top and how they resonate with a broader audience. While some films are clear frontrunners in certain categories, the ultimate winners will depend on how these stories connect with viewers, critics, and industry professionals in the coming months. The films that triumph will be those that not only showcase technical excellence but also strike a deep emotional chord.

The fall festival season has once again set the stage for an exciting awards race, and as audiences, we can only look forward to celebrating these incredible achievements in filmmaking. With "Anora," "The Room Next Door," and others in the mix, the upcoming awards ceremonies are bound to be filled with surprises and moments of well-deserved recognition. Regardless of who takes home the trophies, one thing is certain—cinema is alive and well, and its power to move, inspire, and provoke thought remains unmatched.