Vancouver Film Critics Circle Awards Celebrate Top Films of 2025
The Vancouver Film Critics Circle (VFCC) has announced its award winners for 2025, with Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another taking home the prestigious best picture honor. The ceremony, held on February 23, recognized outstanding achievements in both international and Canadian cinema, highlighting a diverse array of films and performances.
International Winners Shine with Political Drama and Genre Films
One Battle After Another, a politically charged film starring Leonardo DiCaprio as an ex-revolutionary forced back into his former life, was crowned best picture of 2025. The movie also earned Sean Penn the best supporting actor award for his role as Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw, a ruthless military figure. In other international categories, Ryan Coogler won best director and best screenplay for Sinners, a vampire film featuring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role. Notably, much of the visual effects work for Sinners was completed at Industrial Light & Magic in Vancouver, showcasing local talent in the film industry.
Acting accolades included Timothée Chalamet winning best male actor for his performance in Josh Safdie's ping-pong drama Marty Supreme, while Jessie Buckley was named best female actor for her role in Chloé Zhao's Shakespearean origin story Hamnet. The best supporting female actor honor went to Amy Madigan for her portrayal of the eccentric Aunt Gladys in Zach Cregger's horror film Weapons.
Canadian Film Categories Dominated by Mockumentary Hit
In the Canadian film awards, Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie emerged as a major winner, securing best Canadian movie. Matt Johnson, the film's director, also earned best director and best male actor awards for this time-travelling mockumentary. This recognition underscores the vibrant and innovative spirit of Canadian cinema, with the VFCC celebrating homegrown talent and storytelling.
The VFCC awards continue to be a key event in the film calendar, honoring both established and emerging filmmakers. With a focus on diverse genres and narratives, this year's winners reflect the dynamic landscape of contemporary cinema, from intense political dramas to creative mockumentaries.
