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5 Essential Reasons Why Richard Brody Remains The New Yorker's Most Provocative Film Critic In 2025

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Richard Brody, the long-standing and often polarizing film critic for *The New Yorker*, continues to shape and challenge the discourse of modern cinema as we move through late 2025. His work, which spans decades and is deeply rooted in the principles of auteur theory, consistently ignites conversation, placing the personal vision of the filmmaker above all else.

As of December 2025, Brody remains a central figure in film criticism, notably releasing his highly anticipated "Best Films of 2025" list and sparking debate with his recent essay, "In Defense of the Traditional Review." This article delves into the enduring relevance of Brody's singular voice, his definitive biography, and the latest films that have earned his coveted, and often contrarian, praise.

Richard Brody: A Biography of The Auteurist Critic

Richard Brody is not merely a reviewer; he is a film historian and a staunch advocate for cinema as a personal art form. His biographical details provide the essential context for understanding his unique critical lens and his enduring commitment to the medium.

  • Full Name: Richard Brody
  • Born: January 22, 1958
  • Age (as of 2025): 67
  • Education: Princeton University (A.B. in Comparative Literature, 1980)
  • Primary Role: Staff Writer and Film Critic for *The New Yorker* (since 1999)
  • Key Work: Author of the definitive biography, Everything Is Cinema: The Working Life of Jean-Luc Godard (2008)
  • Critical Focus: Deeply committed to the French New Wave, auteur theory, and the political/philosophical dimensions of cinema.
  • Notable Past Films Praised: *Gertrud* (1964), *Journey to Italy* (1954), *Husbands* (1970), *King Lear* (1987), and *The Great Dictator* (1940).

Brody’s academic background in Comparative Literature from Princeton informs his critical approach, treating films not just as entertainment but as complex texts worthy of rigorous, intellectual analysis. His tenure at *The New Yorker* has cemented his status as one of the most influential, and occasionally most criticized, voices in modern film commentary.

The Essential Richard Brody: A Defense of the "Traditional Review"

Brody’s critical philosophy centers on the idea of cinema as an expression of the filmmaker’s individual will—the auteur theory—a concept he has championed throughout his career. This philosophy is best encapsulated in his monumental biography of Jean-Luc Godard, Everything Is Cinema, which meticulously details the director's working life and shifting political views.

A Controversial Commitment to Godard

The biography of Godard itself became a source of controversy, particularly Brody's detailed examination of the French New Wave director's complex relationship with political ideology and accusations of anti-Semitism. Brody’s willingness to stick his neck out for his subjects, even when acknowledging their flaws, is a hallmark of his writing. He insists on viewing the work through a lens of profound intellectual engagement, separating the art from simple moral judgment.

This commitment to the intellectual depth of cinema also led to his recent, much-discussed essay, "In Defense of the Traditional Review," published in December 2025. In it, Brody argues against the trend of overly brief, consumer-focused film commentary, asserting that the practice of criticism should be as wide-ranging as possible and constantly growing. He views the traditional, long-form review as a crucial space for philosophical and artistic exploration, rather than just a recommendation for or against a movie ticket purchase.

The Brody Paradox: Passion and Polarization

Brody’s style is defined by a passionate, often contrarian streak. While he is celebrated for resurrecting the reputations of overlooked films and directors, he is also known for dismissing critically acclaimed blockbusters. This polarization is integral to his brand. In a recent Gawker article, for instance, a writer took aim at his unique, sometimes idiosyncratic, critical approach, arguing that his reviews often feel out of step with mainstream consensus. However, for his dedicated readership, this very idiosyncrasy is what makes his voice essential—a necessary counterpoint to the echo chamber of consensus criticism.

Brody's Best: The Most Talked-About Films of 2025

The most current and anticipated piece of work from Brody each year is his definitive list of the best films. The "Richard Brody: The Best Films of 2025" list, published by *The New Yorker* in December, has already generated significant buzz, highlighting his focus on directorial vision over popular appeal.

Brody’s selection for 2025 is a masterclass in auteurism, featuring a mix of established masters and bold, emerging voices. His top picks serve as a guide not to the most commercially successful films, but to the movies that display the most profound artistic and political commitment.

Key Directors and Titles from Richard Brody's 2025 List:

The 2025 list is particularly notable for its inclusion of several films that reflect Brody's diverse taste and his commitment to international cinema.

  • *Sinners*: A highly-praised entry, often discussed for its bold directorial choices and thematic complexity.
  • *The Mastermind*: Directed by Kelly Reichardt, whose minimalist and humanist approach aligns perfectly with Brody's appreciation for subtle, character-driven narratives.
  • *The Secret Agent*: From Brazilian director Kleber Mendonça Filho, known for his politically charged and visually striking cinema, this film's inclusion underscores Brody's focus on global politics in art.
  • *The Phoenician Scheme*: A film by Wes Anderson, whose distinctive, highly controlled aesthetic is a clear example of the kind of singular auteurist vision Brody champions.
  • Other Notable Mentions: The list also included films like *Sentimental Value*, *Harvest*, and *Misericordia*, as well as a strong endorsement for a new work by Ryan Coogler, further showcasing the breadth of his critical scope.

Earlier in the year, Brody also released his "Favorite Movies of 2025 So Far" list, which helped set the stage for his final year-end selections. These early endorsements are often crucial in building critical momentum for films that might otherwise be overlooked by mainstream audiences.

The Enduring Influence of Richard Brody

Richard Brody’s work is a vital counter-narrative in an era of hyper-accelerated media and disposable content. His dedication to the "traditional review" and his unwavering belief in the intellectual power of cinema serve as a powerful reminder of the critic’s role: not as a consumer guide, but as an informed, passionate interlocutor between the artist and the audience.

Whether one agrees with his take on *The Mastermind* or his defense of Godard, Brody’s articles in *The New Yorker* are essential reading for anyone serious about film. In 2025, his voice is as strong and necessary as ever, compelling readers to look deeper, challenge their assumptions, and ultimately, appreciate cinema as a profound and personal art form.

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richard brody new yorker

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