National Board of Review Names 'One Battle After Another' the Best Film of 2025

Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another is continuing its strong run in the awards season, claiming multiple honors and cementing its status as a leading contender. On Wednesday, the National Board of Review revealed its 2025 winners, with Anderson's film taking center stage across several major categories.

The darkly comedic thriller earned five top distinctions, including Best Picture and Best Director for Anderson. It also excelled in acting, with three performers recognized for their standout work. Leonardo DiCaprio secured Best Actor, while Benicio Del Toro received the Best Supporting Actor award. In addition, Chase Infiniti won the Breakthrough Performance honor.

These achievements follow its recent Best Feature Film win at the Gotham Awards and multiple accolades at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards, solidifying One Battle After Another as the film to beat this season.

Several other winners brought unexpected excitement. Rose Byrne continued her impressive streak with Best Actress for If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, echoing her recent NYFCC victory. In the Supporting Actress category, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas was recognized for her performance in Sentimental Value. Jafar Panahi's It Was Just An Accident again took home Best International Feature, while Arco received the award for Best Animated Feature.

Alongside the winners, the National Board of Review released its annual Top 10 Movies of 2025 and Top Five International Films lists. The official awards ceremony will take place on January 13, 2026, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, with NBC's Willie Geist hosting.

2025 National Board of Review Winners

• Best Director: Paul Thomas Anderson, One Battle After Another
• Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, One Battle After Another
• Best Actress: Rose Byrne, If I Had Legs Id Kick You
• Best Supporting Actor: Benicio Del Toro, One Battle After Another
• Best Supporting Actress: Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Sentimental Value
• Breakthrough Performance: Chase Infiniti, One Battle After Another
• Best Directorial Debut: Eva Victor, Sorry, Baby
• Best Original Screenplay: Ryan Coogler, Sinners
• Best Adapted Screenplay: Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar, Train Dreams
• Best International Film: It Was Just An Accident
• Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography: Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Sinners
• Outstanding Achievement in Stunt Artistry: Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning
• NBR Freedom of Expression Award: Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk

Author: Logan Reeves