'Philadelphia,' 'Clueless,' 'The Karate Kid' added to the National Film Registry

Published: Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 10:00 am

National Film Registry Adds Diverse Classics, Highlights Preservation Efforts

The Library of Congress has announced its latest additions to the National Film Registry, a yearly selection of culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant films. This year's list, comprising 25 films, spans a wide range of genres and eras, reflecting the breadth of American cinema.

Among the notable additions are films featuring iconic actors. Bing Crosby's performances in "White Christmas" and "High Society" have been recognized, as have Denzel Washington's roles in "Glory" and "Philadelphia." The registry also includes several silent films, a larger number than usual, with some recently discovered or restored. These include "The Tramp and the Dog," an early example of slapstick comedy, and "The Oath of the Sword," believed to be the earliest known Asian American film.

Documentary filmmaking is also represented, with Ken Burns' "The Brooklyn Bridge" among the selections. Popular titles like "The Big Chill," "Before Sunrise," "Clueless," and "The Karate Kid" have also been added, appealing to different generations of moviegoers.

The registry aims to promote film preservation and celebrate the enduring impact of cinema. The Library of Congress's role in inspiring filmmakers is highlighted by director Wes Anderson, who credited the institution's resources for influencing the visual style of "The Grand Budapest Hotel."

The complete list of films added to the National Film Registry for 2025 includes a diverse collection of movies from 1896 to 2014.

BNN's Perspective: The National Film Registry's selections are a valuable reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The inclusion of both classic and contemporary films, along with a focus on diverse voices and perspectives, is commendable. While the delay in announcing the 2025 selections is unusual, the overall effort to safeguard and celebrate American cinema is a positive one.

Keywords: National Film Registry, Library of Congress, film preservation, classic films, American cinema, Bing Crosby, Denzel Washington, silent films, documentaries, The Tramp and the Dog, The Oath of the Sword, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Big Chill, The Karate Kid, Clueless, Philadelphia, White Christmas, High Society, Glory, Before Sunrise, The Truman Show, Frida, The Incredibles, The Grand Budapest Hotel

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