As 2025 nears its end, former United States President Barack Obama has once again captivated pop culture enthusiasts by unveiling his highly anticipated annual list of favourite cultural works. On December 18, 2025, Obama took to his social media account on X to continue a tradition he began during his presidency, sharing his top picks in films, music, and books from the past year.
A Blend of Blockbusters and Acclaimed Cinema
Obama's film selections for 2025 showcase his characteristically eclectic taste, bridging the gap between major Hollywood productions and celebrated international art-house cinema. The list is headlined by Ryan Coogler's summer horror-action blockbuster "Sinners," featuring Michael B. Jordan in a dual-role performance that has garnered significant attention.
Beyond mainstream hits, the former president's choices reflect a deep appreciation for directorial vision. He included Park Chan-wook's modern-day masterpiece "No Other Choice" and Jafar Panahi's much-discussed film "It Was Just an Accident." Other notable mentions are Paul Thomas Anderson's star-studded "One Battle After Another," the Cannes Grand Prix winner "Sentimental Value," Chloé Zhao's "Hamnet," and the George Orwell documentary "Orwell: 2+2=5."
Music and Books: From K-Pop to Memoirs
On the music front, Obama's playlist indicates a diverse auditory palette. The list features global pop sensation Lady Gaga's track "Abracadabra," rap superstar Drake's "Nokia," and the energetic K-pop hit "Jump" by the iconic girl group BLACKPINK.
His book recommendations continue this trend of blending international voices with personal connections. The literary list includes works by acclaimed authors Anita Desai and Kiran Desai. In a notable personal touch, the list also features "The Look," a book written by his wife, former First Lady Michelle Obama.
A Tradition with Global Reach
This annual tradition, which Obama has maintained faithfully every December since his time in the White House, has become a significant cultural moment. It often shines a spotlight on lesser-known international works. Notably, last year's list featured the Indian film "All We Imagine as Light," which later won the Cannes Grand Prix. However, the 2025 list does not include any Indian titles, missing even Neeraj Ghaywan's "Homebound," which is India's official entry to the Academy Awards.
By sharing these curated lists, Obama not only highlights exceptional art but also fosters a global conversation about culture. His post on X explicitly invited recommendations from the public, stating, "I hope you find something new to enjoy — and please send any recommendations for me to check out!" This interactive element continues to make his year-end ritual a unique bridge between a world leader and the global artistic community.
