1. Reflection in a Dead Diamond

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This atmospheric action-thriller from Belgium/France/Italy/Luxembourg follows a retired spy on the Côte d’Azur whose neighbour vanishes — forcing him to confront his past. Wikipedia
Why it’s worth watching:
- A rare contemporary homage to 1960s Euro-spy films, giving it a stylish and retro feel. Wikipedia
- Its premiere at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival puts it on the radar of cinephiles. Wikipedia
If you like moody thrillers with visual flair rather than big spectacle, this one’s for you.
2. Honey Bunch

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A Canadian mystery film starring Grace Glowicki and Jason Isaacs, directed by Madeleine Sims-Fewer & Dusty Mancinelli. It premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival. Wikipedia
Why check it out:
- While mystery thrillers are plentiful, this one appears to fly under the radar yet has the pedigree of festival recognition.
- Good pick if you’re looking for something less mainstream but with strong talent attached.
3. Agnyathavasi


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A Kannada-language crime drama set in the misty forests of the Malenadu region in India. It revolves around a rural murder mystery that ties back to a 1970s case. Wikipedia
Why it deserves more attention:
- Non-Bollywood regional Indian cinema doesn’t always reach global audiences — this is a strong example of high-quality work in that space.
- The combination of lush landscape cinematography and a layered plot gives it crossover appeal.
4. The Safe House


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A French/Swiss/Luxembourgish comedy-drama directed by Lionel Baier and Catherine Charrier, adapted from “La Cache” by Christophe Boltanski. Wikipedia
Why it’s a hidden gem:
- At just 88 minutes, it offers a compact and potentially lighter alternative to heavier fare.
- The historical setting (May 1968) and intimate story suggest emotional resonance over spectacle.
5. Night Stage



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A Brazilian erotic thriller exploring a clandestine affair and public–private boundaries — premiered in the Panorama section of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival. Wikipedia
Why you might find it intriguing:
- It tackles more adult themes and societal taboos, offering something off-beat compared to standard thrillers.
- If you’re comfortable with edgier content and looking for critically interesting international work, this fits the bill.
➤ Final Thoughts
The film landscape of 2025 isn’t just about tentpole blockbusters — these lesser-seen gems show how rich and varied the year has been. If you’re open to stepping outside mainstream releases, you’ll likely find some rewarding viewing here.
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