Marking the momentous 50th anniversary of the cinematic phenomenon that thrilled audiences worldwide, Steven Spielberg offers an unprecedented glimpse into the captivating genesis and enduring legacy of Jaws. This insightful exploration delves into the journey of Jaws, tracing its origins from Peter Benchley’s gripping novel to Spielberg’s masterful film adaptation. The impact of Jaws on popular culture, the art of filmmaking, and even the critical field of shark conservation remains profound half a century later. The film features compelling interviews with Hollywood’s most influential directors, from Steven Soderbergh to Jordan Peele, who speak to the film’s lasting influence, alongside insights from leading shark scientists, who address the complex relationship between humans and these often-misunderstood creatures. Packed with never-before-seen footage from Spielberg’s personal archive and jaw-dropping behind-the-scenes stories, JAWS @ 50 is a thrilling love letter to cinema.

Lindsay Utz and Michelle Walshe’s inspiring documentary offers an intimate and rousing portrait of Jacinda Ardern’s extraordinary tenure as New Zealand’s prime minister from 2017 to 2023. Through a compelling mix of archival footage, personal home videos, and candid audio recordings, their film chronicles her rise to power amid unprecedented crises, including the Christchurch mosque shootings, the White Island eruption, and the global COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighting Ardern’s empathetic yet resolute approach to governance and emphasizing her commitment to kindness, resilience, and social justice, the documentary captures the challenges she faced as a young leader and working mother—the second head of state in modern history to give birth while in office. In doing so, it shows her determination to lead with humanity and common sense. With a dynamic storytelling approach that blends public moments with private reflections, Prime Minister is a stirring celebration of compassionate stewardship and courage, and serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one leader can have in uniting a nation and inspiring hope in turbulent times. Winner: World Cinema Documentary Competition Audience Award, 2025 Sundance Film Festival .

What does it take to stand out in a sea of voices? Filmmakers Jennifer Tiexiera and Guy Mossman take audiences behind the scenes of the National Speech and Debate Association’s prestigious National Tournament, where the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Josh Gad, and Brad Pitt once competed. In this rousing documentary, five gifted high school students—Esther, Mfaz, Sam, Noor, and Noah—spend a year crafting and perfecting original speeches on thought-provoking topics, including school shootings, disability advocacy, and assisted suicide. As they prepare to face one of the world’s largest academic competitions, the stakes are high—not just for winning but for sparking meaningful dialogue in front of thousands of viewers. While charting the students’ road to Nationals, the film also explores their dynamic and diverse personal lives, deftly balancing humor with poignant reflections on youth navigating an uncertain future. With its compelling blend of heartfelt storytelling and sharp social commentary, this coming of age documentary celebrates the power of speech to inspire change while showcasing the creativity and ambition of tomorrow’s next generation of leaders, poised to shape the world through the power of words.

This darkly comedic drama centers on the unlikely, intense friendship that develops between two men who meet in a support group for those grieving the loss of their twins. Written, directed, and produced by James Sweeney, who also stars alongside a remarkable Dylan O’Brien, the film deftly balances witty humor with palpable emotion. Sweeney’s clever, nuanced script captures the awkwardness, vulnerability, and unexpected intimacy of their connection, while both leads deliver impressive, deeply layered performances that vividly bring their characters’ grief and desires to life. Adding further depth, Lauren Graham and Aisling Franciosi contribute memorable supporting roles—Graham as a mother navigating complex family dynamics, and Franciosi as Marcie, an unexpectedly perceptive receptionist whose presence adds both warmth and intrigue. As the bond between the two men deepens, secrets surface, challenging perceptions of identity, love, and loss. With a keen eye for tone and character, Twinless blends black comedy and psychological thriller elements, creating a compelling, unpredictable narrative that unfolds with striking originality and emotional intensity as it explores the complexities of human connection and the ways we cope with grief. Winner: US Dramatic Competition Audience Award & Special Jury Award: Acting, 2025 Sundance Film Festival