Menu
In the vast landscape of cinema, certain films stand out not only for their entertainment value but for their profound influence, storytelling mastery, and cultural significance. As we continue our journey through the 1000 Greatest Films, we now present the crème de la crème of cinematic artistry: The 250 Greatest Films of All Time.
At Top10ner, our passion for film knows no bounds. We believe in honoring this art form by recognizing the brilliance within each frame, performance, and directorial choice. The rankings in this list are determined by combining average ratings, critical acclaim, and audience reception, offering a comprehensive view of each film’s enduring greatness. Crafted from the insights of film aficionados and critics alike, this list aims to guide you through a journey of cinematic discovery.
Join us as we explore the heart of cinematic greatness, celebrating visionary storytellers, unforgettable performances, and transformative narratives that have shaped the landscape of film. From revered classics to hidden gems, these 250 films capture the diversity and richness of cinema, inviting you to immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling on the silver screen.
Click below to delve deeper into our rating system and learn all about the inner workings of our algorithm.
Top10nerScore85.511 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Thomas Vinterberg
WRITERS: Thomas Vinterberg, Tobias Lindholm
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Charlotte Bruus Christensen
STARRING: Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Lasse Fogelstrøm, Annika Wedderkopp, Alexandra Rapaport, Susse Wold, Anne Louise Hassing
GENRE: Drama
A teacher lives a lonely life, all the while struggling over his son’s custody. His life slowly gets better as he finds love and receives good news from his son, but his new luck is about to be brutally shattered by an innocent little lie.
The Hunt deftly navigates the complexities of human perception and societal hysteria, showcasing a tour-de-force performance by Mikkelsen. Its nuanced storytelling, and Vinterberg’s finesse, elevates this film into a profound exploration of innocence shattered and redemption sought.
Top10nerScore85.526 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Sam Peckinpah
WRITERS: Walon Green, Roy N. Sickner, Sam Peckinpah
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Lucien Ballard
STARRING: William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan, Warren Oates, Edmond O’Brien, Ben Johnson
GENRE: Revisionist Western, New Hollywood
Aging outlaw, Pike Bishop prepares to retire after one final robbery. Joined by his gang, Dutch Engstrom and brothers Lyle and Tector Gorch, Bishop discovers the heist is a setup orchestrated in part by a former partner, Deke Thornton. As the remaining gang takes refuge in Mexican territory, Thornton trails them—resulting in fierce gunfights with plenty of casualties.
Top10nerScore85.538 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Michelangelo Antonioni
WRITERS: Michelangelo Antonioni, Tonino Guerra, Elio Bartolini
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Aldo Scavarda
STARRING: Monica Vitti, Gabriele Ferzetti, Lea Massari, Dominique Blanchar
GENRE: Romance, Drama, Psychological Drama
Claudia and Anna join Anna’s lover, Sandro, on a boat trip to a remote volcanic island. When Anna goes missing, a search is launched. In the meantime, Sandro and Claudia become involved in a romance despite Anna’s disappearance, though the relationship suffers from guilt and tension.
L’Avventura boldly defies narrative norms, delving into existential depths with Antonioni’s visionary direction and stunning cinematography. A landmark in art house cinema, it reshapes storytelling conventions with its captivating exploration of human experience.
Top10nerScore85.557 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: George Roy Hill
WRITERS: David S. Ward
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Surtees
STARRING: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw
GENRE: Buddy, Heist Film, New Hollywood
Set in the 1930s this intricate caper deals with an ambitious small-time crook and a veteran con man who seek revenge on a vicious crime lord who murdered one of their gang.
The Sting is a timeless classic lauded for its intricate plot, charismatic performances, and stylish direction. With its clever twists and period charm, it captivates audiences, earning praise for its seamless blend of humor and suspense. A cinematic triumph that stands the test of time.
Top10nerScore85.558 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Terry Jones
WRITERS: Terry Gilliam, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Peter Biziou
STARRING: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam
GENRE: Satire, Absurdist Comedy, Parody, Black Comedy, Classical Antiquity
Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he’s not dodging his followers or being scolded by his shrill mother, the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate and acronym-obsessed members of a separatist movement. Rife with Monty Python’s signature absurdity, the tale finds Brian’s life paralleling Biblical lore, albeit with many more laughs.
Life of Brian captivates with its satirical brilliance, expertly navigating controversial themes through razor-sharp humor. Clever writing and the ensemble’s impeccable comedic timing elevate this cinematic gem, offering a timeless commentary on societal absurdities
Top10nerScore85.574 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Pete Docter
WRITERS: Bob Peterson, Pete Docter, Tom McCarthy
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jean-Claude Kalache, Patrick Lin
STARRING: Ed Asner, Jordan Nagai, Christopher Plummer, Bob Peterson
GENRE: Computer Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Buddy
Carl Fredricksen spent his entire life dreaming of exploring the globe and experiencing life to its fullest. But at age 78, life seems to have passed him by, until a twist of fate (and a persistent 8-year old Wilderness Explorer named Russell) gives him a new lease on life.
Up is a soaring achievement in animated storytelling, seamlessly blending heartwarming emotion with thrilling adventure. Pixar’s innovative narrative structure, coupled with Giacchino’s evocative score, cements it as a modern classic, resonating across generations.
Top10nerScore85.590 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Hirokazu Kore-eda
WRITERS: Hirokazu Kore-eda
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ryūto Kondō
STARRING: Lily Franky, Sakura Ando, Mayu Matsuoka, Kirin Kiki, Jyo Kairi, Miyu Sasaki
GENRE: Drama, Family Drama
After one of their shoplifting sessions, Osamu and his son come across a little girl in the freezing cold. At first reluctant to shelter the girl, Osamu’s wife agrees to take care of her after learning of the hardships she faces. Although the family is poor, barely making enough money to survive through petty crime, they seem to live happily together until an unforeseen incident reveals hidden secrets, testing the bonds that unite them.
Shoplifters delicately weaves empathy and complexity into its narrative, inviting audiences into the lives of its flawed yet deeply human characters. With poignant performances and thought-provoking themes, it’s a soul-stirring exploration of family and morality.
Top10nerScore85.659 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Leo McCarey
WRITERS: Harry Ruby, Bert Kalmar, Arthur Sheekman, Nat Perrin
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Henry Sharp
STARRING: Groucho Marx, Harpo Marx, Chico Marx, Zeppo Marx, Margaret Dumont, Louis Calhern
GENRE: Absurdist Comedy, Satire, Slapstick
Rufus T. Firefly is named president/dictator of bankrupt Freedonia and declares war on neighboring Sylvania over the love of wealthy Mrs. Teasdale.
Duck Soup is a comedic tour de force, brimming with sharp wit and anarchic humor. The Marx Brothers’ zany antics, combined with McCarey’s direction, deliver a relentless barrage of laughs while cleverly satirizing politics and war, making it a timeless and uproarious classic.
Top10nerScore85.667 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Martin Scorsese
WRITERS: Paul D. Zimmerman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Fred Schuler
STARRING: Robert De Niro, Jerry Lewis, Sandra Bernhard, Diahnne Abbott
GENRE: Black Comedy, Satire, Drama
A thirty-four-year-old aspiring comic still living at home, Rupert Pupkin studies obsessively to be a talk show guest, but has no discernible talent other than a ferocious need for recognition. When he meets his talk show host idol, he sees it as an opportunity for him to reach his dream of stardom.
The King of Comedy is a darkly humorous and unsettling exploration of fame and obsession. Scorsese’s masterful direction, paired with De Niro’s compelling performance, crafts a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the lengths one might go for notoriety.
Top10nerScore85.686 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Victor Fleming
WRITERS: Sidney Howard
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ernest Haller
STARRING: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Hattie McDaniel, Thomas Mitchell
GENRE: Period Drama, Melodrama, Romance, Epic
The spoiled daughter of a Georgia plantation owner conducts a tumultuous romance with a cynical profiteer during the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era.
Gone with the Wind stands as an enduring cinematic achievement, seamlessly blending epic storytelling and groundbreaking visuals. Its timeless portrayal of Scarlett O’Hara’s resilience captivates audiences, and the film’s impact on American cinema remains unparalleled.
Top10nerScore85.707 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Terrence Malick
WRITERS: Terrence Malick
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Néstor Almendros, Haskell Wexler
STARRING: Richard Gere, Brooke Adams, Sam Shepard, Linda Manz, Robert J. Wilke
GENRE: Drama, New Hollywood, Romance
In 1910, a Chicago steel worker accidentally kills his supervisor and flees to the Texas panhandle with his girlfriend and little sister to work harvesting wheat in the fields of a stoic farmer. A love triangle, a swarm of locusts, a hellish fire—Malick captures it all with dreamlike authenticity, creating at once a timeless American idyll and a gritty evocation of turn-of-the-century labor.
Days of Heaven mesmerizes with its visually stunning cinematography, courtesy of Almendros and Wexler. The ethereal landscapes beautifully complement a poignant narrative, while Ennio Morricone’s score elevates this cinematic achievement into an unforgettable sensory experience.
Top10nerScore85.710 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Michelangelo Antonioni
WRITERS: Ennio Flaiano, Michelangelo Antonioni, Tonino Guerra
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gianni Di Venanzo
STARRING: Marcello Mastroianni, Jeanne Moreau, Monica Vitti, Bernhard Wicki, Rosy Mazzacurati
GENRE: Drama
Set during a single day and night in a Milan where steel and glass skyscrapers are going up and old buildings being pulled down, it opens with a disillusioned novelist and his embittered wife visiting their dying friend, a leftwing critic.
La Notte is a mesmerizing exploration of existential angst and societal disconnection. With its stunning visuals and nuanced performances, the film invites viewers into a contemplative journey, deftly reflecting the complexities of human relationships and the ennui of modernity.
Top10nerScore85.735 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Howard Hawks
WRITERS: Jules Furthman, Leigh Brackett
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Russell Harlan
STARRING: John Wayne, Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Angie Dickinson, Walter Brennan
GENRE: Western, Buddy
The sheriff of a small town in southwest Texas must keep custody of a murderer whose brother, a powerful rancher, is trying to help him escape. After a friend is killed trying to muster support for him, he and his deputies – a disgraced drunk and a cantankerous old cripple – must find a way to hold out against the rancher’s hired guns until the marshal arrives. In the meantime, matters are complicated by the presence of a young gunslinger – and a mysterious beauty who just came in on the last stagecoach.
Rio Bravo stands as a testament to Hawks’ mastery, blending classic Western elements with intricate character dynamics. The film’s suspenseful narrative and standout performances, notably Wayne’s and Martin’s, elevate it as a timeless exemplar of the genre.
Top10nerScore85.766/ 100
p>
DIRECTOR: William Wyler
WRITERS: Robert E. Sherwood
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gregg Toland
STARRING: Fredric March, Dana Andrews, Myrna Loy, Teresa Wright, Virginia Mayo, Harold Russell, Cathy O’Donnell
GENRE: Melodrama
It’s the hope that sustains the spirit of every GI: the dream of the day when he will finally return home. For three WWII veterans, the day has arrived. But for each man, the dream is about to become a nightmare. Captain Fred Derry is returning to a loveless marriage; Sergeant Al Stephenson is a stranger to a family that’s grown up without him; and young sailor Homer Parrish is tormented by the loss of his hands. Can these three men find the courage to rebuild their world? Or are the best years of their lives a thing of the past?
The Best Years of Our Lives is a timeless portrayal of post-war America, delicately exploring the challenges faced by returning veterans. Its raw authenticity and humanistic approach resonate deeply, supported by exceptional performances and a heartrending narrative.
Top10nerScore85.799 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Paul Thomas Anderson
WRITERS: Paul Thomas Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Elswit
STARRING: Mark Wahlberg, Burt Reynolds, Julianne Moore, John C. Reilly, Heather Graham, Don Cheadle, William H. Macy, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Luis Guzmán, Thomas Jane, Melora Walters, Nicole Ari Parker, Ricky Jay, Philip Baker Hall, Robert Ridgely
GENRE: Drama, Black Comedy
Spanning two decades, this chronicle of the California pornographic film industry shows the rise and fall of a wide-eyed, well-endowed young man who becomes an industry superstar by the name of Dirk Diggler.
Boogie Nights is a revelatory exploration of the adult film industry’s rise in the ’70s and ’80s, skillfully blending gritty realism with dark humor. PTA’s careful direction and Wahlberg’s standout performance elevate this cinematic odyssey into a riveting cultural commentary.
Top10nerScore85.836 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Robert Bresson
WRITERS: Robert Bresson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ghislain Cloquet
STARRING: Anne Wiazemsky, Walter Green, Jean-Claude Guilbert, François Lafarge, Nathalie Joyaut, Philippe Asselin
GENRE: Drama
The film parallels the mistreatment and downfall of two innocents: a young farmer’s daughter who is seduced by the leader of a group of black-jacketed delinquents; and the Christ-like Balthazar, a donkey that is passed from master to master, endures a seemingly endless cycle of cruelty.
Au Hasard Balthazar is a poignant exploration of the human condition, blending Bresson’s signature minimalism with profound emotional resonance. Its nuanced narrative, coupled with stunning visuals and a sublime score, makes it an enduring example of cinematic artistry.
Top10nerScore85.843 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: John Ford
WRITERS: Frank S. Nugent
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Winton C. Hoch
STARRING: John Wayne, Jeffrey Hunter, Vera Miles, Ward Bond, Natalie Wood, Henry Brandon
GENRE: Western
As a Civil War veteran spends years searching for a young niece captured by Indians, his motivation becomes increasingly questionable.
The Searchers stands as a cinematic triumph, seamlessly blending Ford’s prowess with a nuanced exploration of racism and frontier justice. Its impact on the Western genre is undeniable, influencing generations of filmmakers and showcasing Wayne’s complex performance.
Top10nerScore85.857 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Hayao Miyazaki
WRITERS: Hayao Miyazaki
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Atsushi Okui
STARRING: Chieko Baisho, Takuya Kimura, Akihiro Miwa, Tatsuya Gashuin, Ryūnosuke Kamiki, Haruko Kato
STARRING (ENGLISH): Christian Bale, Emily Mortimer, Jean Simmons, Lauren Bacall, Billy Crystal, Josh Hutcherson, Blythe Danner
GENRE: Anime, Fantasy, Adventure, Steampunk
When Sophie, a shy young woman, is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking castle.
Howl’s Moving Castle enchants with its visually stunning animation, blending Miyazaki’s signature whimsy with profound themes of identity and love. The film’s nuanced characters and intricate narrative showcase Ghibli’s commitment to crafting emotionally resonant storytelling for all.
Top10nerScore85.861 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Satoshi Kon
WRITERS: Sadayuki Murai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hisao Shirai
STARRING: Junko Iwao, Rica Matsumoto, Shinpachi Tsuji, Masaaki Okura, Yosuke Akimoto
GENRE: Anime, Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Psychological Horror
A retired pop singer turned actress’ sense of reality is shaken when she is stalked by an obsessed fan and seemingly a ghost of her past.
Perfect Blue is a riveting psychological thriller praised for its innovative animation techniques and Kon’s visionary direction. Blending reality and fantasy seamlessly, it captivates audiences with its mind-bending narrative and insightful exploration of identity in the digital age.
Top10nerScore85.896 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Zhang Yimou
WRITERS: Ni Zhen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Zhao Fei, Lun Yang
STARRING: Gong Li, Ma Jingwu, He Saifei, Cao Cuifen, Kong Lin
GENRE: Drama, Fifth Generation
China in the 1920s. After her father’s death, 19 year old Songlian is forced to marry the much older lord of a powerful family. With three wives already, each living in a separate house within the great castle, there is fierce competition for his attention and the privileges that are gained. This competition gets out of hand…
Raise the Red Lantern is a captivating exploration of power dynamics within a wealthy Chinese household, blending exquisite visuals and meticulous storytelling. Yimou’s attention to cultural nuance elevates this film into a poignant commentary on tradition and human nature.
Top10nerScore85.912 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Alfonso Cuarón
WRITERS: Alfonso Cuarón, David Arata, Timothy J. Sexton, Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Emmanuel Lubezki
STARRING: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Claire-Hope Ashitey
GENRE: Dystopian, Drama, Thriller
In 2027, in a chaotic world in which humans can no longer procreate, a former activist agrees to help transport a miraculously pregnant woman to a sanctuary at sea, where her child’s birth may help scientists save the future of humankind.
Children of Men earns acclaim for its dystopian vision, seamlessly blending gritty realism with breathtaking cinematography. Alfonso Cuarón’s deft handling of themes like hope and resilience elevates this sci-fi thriller into a thought-provoking masterpiece of the genre.
Top10nerScore85.913 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Steven Spielberg
WRITERS: David Koepp, Michael Crichton
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dean Cundey
STARRING: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Richard Attenborough, Joseph Mazzello, Ariana Richards
GENRE: Science Fiction, Adventure, Action, Giant Monster
A wealthy entrepreneur secretly creates a theme park featuring living dinosaurs drawn from prehistoric DNA. Before opening day, he invites a team of experts and his two eager grandchildren to experience the park and help calm anxious investors. However, the park is anything but amusing as the security systems go off-line and the dinosaurs escape.
Jurassic Park remains a timeless marvel, seamlessly blending groundbreaking visual effects with Spielberg’s trademark storytelling prowess. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to captivate audiences of all ages, solidifying its status as an iconic blockbuster.
Top10nerScore85.960 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Quentin Tarantino
WRITERS: Quentin Tarantino
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Richardson
STARRING: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson, Kerry Washington
GENRE: Revisionist Western, Black Comedy
Two years before the Civil War, Django, a slave, finds himself accompanying an unorthodox German bounty hunter named Dr. King Schultz on a mission to capture the vicious Brittle brothers. Their mission successful, Schultz frees Django, and together they hunt the South’s most-wanted criminals.
Django Unchained expertly navigates sensitive subject matter with Tarantino’s trademark style, delivering a gripping narrative that combines historical accuracy with exhilarating action. Its bold performances and thought-provoking themes make it a standout in modern cinema.
Top10nerScore85.984 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Abel Gance
WRITERS: Abel Gance
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Léonce-Henri Burel, Jules Kruger, Joseph-Louis Mundwiller, Nikolai Toporkoff
STARRING: Albert Dieudonné, Vladimir Roudenko, Edmond Van Daële, Antonin Artaud, Gina Manès, Alexandre Koubitzky
GENRE: Biopic, French Impressionist Cinema, War, Period Drama, Epic
This epic biopic of Napoleon traverses many of the formative experiences that shaped the French leader’s rapid advancement: from his days in school to his flight from Corsica, as well as the French Revolution and the Terror, and culminating in his triumphant invasion of Italy in 1797.
Napoléon is a pioneering cinematic achievement, pushing boundaries with Gance’s groundbreaking use of innovative techniques like triptych visuals. Its historical accuracy and avant-garde storytelling showcase a visionary approach that continues to influence filmmakers decades later.
Top10nerScore85.994 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Alfred Hitchcock
WRITERS: Robert E. Sherwood, Joan Harrison
CINEMATOGRAPHY: George Barnes
STARRING: Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, Judith Anderson, George Sanders, Florence Bates, Reginald Denny
GENRE: Mystery, Romance, Psychological Thriller, Gothic
Story of a young woman who marries a fascinating widower only to find out that she must live in the shadow of his former wife, Rebecca, who died mysteriously several years earlier. The young wife must come to grips with the terrible secret of her handsome, cold husband, Max De Winter. She must also deal with the jealous, obsessed Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper, who will not accept her as the mistress of the house.
Rebecca is a haunting and elegant thriller, masterfully directed by Hitchcock. With compelling performances and a gripping narrative, the film weaves a tale of mystery, obsession, and suspense, immersing audiences in the shadowy world of Manderley and its enigmatic secrets.
Top10nerScore86.049 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Barry Jenkins
WRITERS: Barry Jenkins, Tarell Alvin McCraney
CINEMATOGRAPHY: James Laxton
STARRING: Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, Trevante Rhodes, Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, André Holland, Jharrel Jerome, Janelle Monáe
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Drama, LGBTQ+
The tender, heartbreaking story of a young man’s struggle to find himself, told across three defining chapters in his life as he experiences the ecstasy, pain, and beauty of falling in love, while grappling with his own sexuality.
Moonlight is a poignant exploration of identity and societal expectations, skillfully navigating the complexities of race, sexuality, and masculinity. The nuanced performances, particularly Ali’s Oscar-winning turn, contribute to its powerful portrayal of human vulnerability and resilience.
Top10nerScore86.062 / 100
p>
DIRECTORS: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell
WRITERS: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jack Cardiff
STARRING: David Niven, Kim Hunter, Roger Livesey, Marius Goring, Raymond Massey
GENRE: Romance, Low Fantasy, Magical Realism
When a young airman miraculously survives bailing out of his aeroplane without a parachute, he falls in love with an American radio operator. But the officials in the other world realise their mistake, and despatch an angel to collect him.
A Matter of Life and Death is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film, blending fantasy and romance with Powell and Pressburger’s visionary direction. The captivating story, rich in imagination and heart, explores themes of love, fate, and the afterlife.
Top10nerScore86.105 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Paul Thomas Anderson
WRITERS: Paul Thomas Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Elswit
STARRING: Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, John C. Reilly, Jason Robards, William H. Macy, Melora Walters, Philip Baker Hall, Jeremy Blackman, Ricky Jay
GENRE: Melodrama, Hyperlink Cinema, Drama
An epic mosaic of many interrelated characters in search of happiness, forgiveness, and meaning in the San Fernando Valley.
Magnolia is a cinematic tour de force, seamlessly interweaving disparate narratives with profound emotional resonance. PTA’s expertise and the stellar ensemble cast deliver a tapestry of human experience, exploring interconnected lives with unflinching honesty and cinematic finesse.
Top10nerScore86.106 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Terrence Malick
WRITERS: Terrence Malick
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tak Fujimoto, Brian Probyn, Stevan Larner
STARRING: Martin Sheen, Sissy Spacek, Warren Oates, Ramon Bieri
GENRE: Crime, Road Movie, Drama, New Hollywood
Dramatization of the Starkweather-Fugate killing spree of the 1950s, in which a teenage girl and her twenty-something boyfriend slaughtered her entire family and several others in the Dakota badlands.
Badlands is a cinematic triumph that seamlessly blends striking visuals with a haunting narrative. Its exploration of alienation and violence in the American heartland, coupled with impeccable performances, showcases Malick’s early genius and enduring impact on filmmaking.
Top10nerScore86.135 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Andrei Tarkovsky
WRITERS: Andrei Tarkovsky
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sven Nykvist
STARRING: Erland Josephson, Susan Fleetwood, Allan Edwall, Guðrún Gísladóttir, Sven Wollter
GENRE: Drama, Slow Cinema
Alexander, a journalist, philosopher and retired actor, celebrates a birthday with friends and family when it is announced that nuclear war has begun.
The Sacrifice is an intellectual tour de force, seamlessly blending philosophical depth with stunning cinematography. The film’s intricate narrative, coupled with its mesmerizing long takes, solidifies its place as a thought-provoking and visually captivating cinematic achievement.
Top10nerScore86.178 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: John McTiernan
WRITERS: Steven E. de Souza, Jeb Stuart
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jan de Bont
STARRING: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia, Reginald VelJohnson, Alexander Godunov, Paul Gleason, William Atherton
GENRE: Action
NYPD cop John McClane’s plan to reconcile with his estranged wife is thrown for a serious loop when, minutes after he arrives at her office, the entire building is overtaken by a group of terrorists. With little help from the LAPD, wisecracking McClane sets out to single-handedly rescue the hostages and bring the bad guys down.
Die Hard revolutionized the action genre with its groundbreaking use of practical effects and intricate storytelling. Willis’s iconic performance as John McClane, coupled with Rickman’s memorable villain, cements it as a seminal experience, redefining the template for modern action films.
Top10nerScore86.208 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Howard Hawks
WRITERS: Charles Lederer, Ben Hecht
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Joseph Walker
STARRING: Cary Grant, Rosalind Russell, Ralph Bellamy, Gene Lockhart, Porter Hall, Ernest Truex
GENRE: Screwball Comedy, Satire
Hildy, the journalist former wife of newspaper editor Walter Burns, visits his office to inform him that she’s engaged and will be getting remarried the next day. Walter can’t let that happen and frames the fiancé, Bruce Baldwin, for one thing after another, to keep him temporarily held in prison, while trying to steer Hildy into returning to her old job as his employee.
His Girl Friday is a journalistic tour de force, with Russell’s dynamic performance and Hawks’ sharp direction seamlessly blending screwball comedy and social commentary. The film’s witty dialogue and breakneck pace make it a timeless classic in the annals of cinematic history.
Top10nerScore86.226 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Roberto Benigni
WRITERS: Roberto Benigni, Vincenzo Cerami
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tonino Delli Colli
STARRING: Roberto Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, Giorgio Cantarini, Horst Buchholz, Marisa Paredes
GENRE: Comedy, Period Drama, Melodrama
A touching story of an Italian book seller of Jewish ancestry who lives in his own little fairy tale. His creative and happy life would come to an abrupt halt when his entire family is deported to a concentration camp during World War II. While locked up he tries to convince his son that the whole thing is just a game.
Life Is Beautiful captivates with its poignant blend of humor and tragedy, skillfully navigating the Holocaust’s grim backdrop. Benigni’s nuanced performance and the film’s seamless tonal shifts showcase a profound exploration of resilience and love amid unthinkable adversity.
Top10nerScore86.233 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Luc Besson
WRITERS: Luc Besson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Thierry Arbogast
STARRING: Jean Reno, Natalie Portman, Gary Oldman, Danny Aiello, Peter Appel
GENRE: Crime, Drama, Action
Léon, the top hit man in New York, has earned a rep as an effective “cleaner”. But when his next-door neighbors are wiped out by a loose-cannon DEA agent, he becomes the unwilling custodian of 12-year-old Mathilda. Before long, Mathilda’s thoughts turn to revenge, and she considers following in Léon’s footsteps.
Léon: The Professional gracefully balances intense action with tender humanity, crafting a riveting narrative enriched by Reno’s stoic performance and Portman’s breakout portrayal. Besson’s direction immerses us in a world where redemption blooms amidst chaos.
Top10nerScore86.253 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Luis Buñuel
WRITERS: Luis Buñuel, Luis Alcoriza
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gabriel Figueroa
STARRING: Silvia Pinal, Enrique Rambal, Lucy Gallardo, Claudio Brook, Augusto Benedico, Antonio Bravo, Ofelia Guilmáin, Xavier Massé, Bertha Moss
GENRE: Satire, Surrealism, Black Comedy
A formal dinner party starts out normally enough. After the bourgeois group retire to the host’s music room, they inexplicably find themselves unable to leave. Hours pass and then days, and as the time plods by, disturbing changes in the formerly-genteel guests occur.
The Exterminating Angel captivates with its surreal exploration of societal constraints. A masterpiece of cinematic allegory, seamlessly blending satire and psychological intrigue, offering a thought-provoking examination of human behavior within confined social constructs.
Top10nerScore86.267 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Bernardo Bertolucci
WRITERS: Bernardo Bertolucci
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Vittorio Storaro
STARRING: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Stefania Sandrelli, Gastone Moschin, Dominique Sanda, Enzo Tarascio, Fosco Giachetti
GENRE: Political Drama, Psychological Drama
Set in 1930s Italy, Marcello has spent his life accommodating others, in search for a sense of belonging. When he is drawn into the fascist party, he agrees to assassinate a political refugee who turns out to be his former college professor.
The Conformist is a visually striking and psychologically complex film, directed with precision by Bertolucci. Its compelling narrative, rich in symbolism and atmosphere, delves into themes of identity, power, and moral compromise, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Top10nerScore86.292 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Alexander Mackendrick
WRITERS: Ernest Lehman, Clifford Odets
CINEMATOGRAPHY: James Wong Howe
STARRING: Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis, Susan Harrison, Martin Milner, Sam Levene, Barbara Nichols
GENRE: Drama, Film noir
New York City newspaper writer J.J. Hunsecker holds considerable sway over public opinion with his Broadway column, but one thing that he can’t control is his younger sister, Susan, who is in a relationship with aspiring jazz guitarist Steve Dallas. Hunsecker strongly disproves of the romance and recruits publicist Sidney Falco to find a way to split the couple, no matter how ruthless the method.
Sweet Smell of Success stands as a noir masterpiece, captivating audiences with its sharp dialogue, gripping plot, and exceptional visuals. Curtis and Lancaster deliver career-defining performances, while Elmer Bernstein’s jazz-infused score adds a layer of timeless sophistication.
Top10nerScore86.324 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Ernst Lubitsch
WRITERS: Samson Raphaelson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: William H. Daniels
STARRING: James Stewart, Margaret Sullavan, Frank Morgan, Joseph Schildkraut, Felix Bressart, William Tracy
GENRE: Romantic Comedy
Two employees at a gift shop can barely stand one another, without realising that they are falling in love through the post as each other’s anonymous pen pal.
The Shop Around the Corner beautifully weaves romantic comedy with poignant storytelling. Ernst Lubitsch’s vision, combined with stellar performances, captures the essence of human connection, delivering a timeless exploration of love, humor, and the intricacies of relationships.
Top10nerScore86.365 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Roberto Rossellini
WRITERS: Roberto Rossellini, Sergio Amidei, Federico Fellini
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ubaldo Arata
STARRING: Aldo Fabrizi, Anna Magnani, Marcello Pagliero, Harry Feist, Maria Michi, Francesco Grandjacque
GENRE: Italian Neorealism, War, Drama
In Rome during World War II, underground resistance leader Manfredi attempts to evade the Gestapo by enlisting the help of Pina, the fiancée of a fellow member of the resistance, and Don Pietro, the priest due to oversee her marriage. But it’s not long before the Nazis and the local police find him.
Rome, Open City stands as a groundbreaking achievement in post-war cinema, seamlessly blending neorealism and compelling storytelling. Rossellini’s raw depiction of wartime struggles, coupled with Arata’s innovative visuals, cements its influential status in film history.
Top10nerScore86.405 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: David Lean
WRITERS: Carl Foreman, Michael Wilson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jack Hildyard
STARRING: Alec Guinness, William Holden, Sessue Hayakawa, Jack Hawkins, James Donald, Geoffrey Horne
GENRE: War, Drama, Prison Film, Epic
The classic story of English POWs in Burma forced to build a bridge to aid the war effort of their Japanese captors. British and American intelligence officers conspire to blow up the structure, but Col. Nicholson , the commander who supervised the bridge’s construction, has acquired a sense of pride in his creation and tries to foil their plans.
The Bridge on the River Kwai is a gripping war epic that combines thrilling action with profound moral dilemmas. Lean’s masterful direction, coupled with Guinness’s commanding performance, crafts a riveting narrative exploring themes of duty, honor, and the human cost of conflict.
Top10nerScore86.426 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Ingmar Bergman
WRITERS: Ingmar Bergman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sven Nykvist
STARRING: Harriet Andersson, Liv Ullmann, Ingrid Thulin, Kari Sylwan, Erland Josephson
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Family Drama, Period Drama, Gothic
As Agnes slowly dies of cancer, her sisters are so deeply immersed in their own psychic pains that they can’t offer her the support she needs. Maria is wracked with guilt at her husband’s suicide, caused by his discovery of her extramarital affair. The self-loathing, suicidal Karin seems to regard her sister with revulsion. Only Anna, the deeply religious maid who lost her young child, seems able to offer Agnes solace and empathy.
Cries and Whispers stands as a cinematic triumph, seamlessly blending haunting visuals with intense psychological depth. The film’s exploration of familial bonds and human suffering is a testament to Bergman’s unparalleled storytelling prowess and cinematographic innovation.
Top10nerScore86.444 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Thomas Vinterberg
WRITERS: Thomas Vinterberg, Mogens Rukov
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Anthony Dod Mantle
STARRING: Ulrich Thomsen, Henning Moritzen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Birthe Neumann, Paprika Steen
GENRE: Dogme 95, Family Drama, Drama
A grandiose party to celebrate a sixtieth birthday unleashes a family drama with all the lies that conceal horrendous secrets. The eldest son, Christian, stages a showdown with the popular pater familias; his provocative, moving after-dinner speech dislodges all the masks, which finally fall completely as the father-son conflict intensifies and the bewildered guests look on.
The Celebration is an audacious exploration of family dynamics, skillfully crafted by Vinterberg. With its raw emotional intensity and Dogme 95 approach, the film captivates audiences through its unflinching portrayal of dark secrets and the complexities of human relationships.
Top10nerScore86.448 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Christopher Nolan
WRITERS: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hoyte van Hoytema
STARRING: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine, Casey Affleck, Mackenzie Foy
GENRE: Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure, Space Exploration
The adventures of a group of explorers who make use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage.
Interstellar captivates with its breathtaking visuals and emotional depth, seamlessly blending science and humanity. Nolan’s direction navigates through space and time, while McConaughey’s performance soars. A cinematic odyssey that ignites wonder and contemplation.
Top10nerScore86.466 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Luis Buñuel
WRITERS: Luis Buñuel, Luis Alcoriza, Pedro de Urdimalas, Max Aub
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gabriel Figueroa
STARRING: Alfonso Mejía, Roberto Cobo, Javier Amézcua, Alma Delia Fuentes, Francisco Jambrina, Estela Inda, Miguel Inclán
GENRE: Drama, Crime, Coming-of-Age
A group of juvenile delinquents lives a criminal, violent life in the festering slums of Mexico City, among them the young Pedro, whose morality is gradually corrupted and destroyed by the others.
The Young and the Damned is a gritty and powerful exploration of youth and poverty, directed with raw authenticity by Buñuel. The film’s unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by disadvantaged children in Mexico City offers a poignant commentary on society’s failings.
Top10nerScore86.475 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: John Ford
WRITERS: Nunnally Johnson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gregg Toland
STARRING: Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, John Carradine, Russell Simpson, Dorris Bowdon, Charley Grapewin
GENRE: Drama, Road Movie
Tom Joad returns to his home after a jail sentence to find his family kicked out of their farm due to foreclosure. He catches up with them on his Uncle’s farm, and joins them the next day as they head for California and a new life… Hopefully.
The Grapes of Wrath stands as a poignant cinematic testament to the Dust Bowl era. Meticulously adapting Steinbeck’s novel, Ford’s direction and Toland’s cinematography artfully capture the Joad family’s struggles, intertwining social commentary and human resilience.
Top10nerScore86.520 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Mike Nichols
WRITERS: Buck Henry, Calder Willingham
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Surtees
STARRING: Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, Katharine Ross, William Daniels, Murray Hamilton
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Drama, New Hollywood, Romance
Recent college graduate Ben Braddock returns to his parents’ California home and stumbles through a haze of indecision as he navigates life in the real world. He starts an unexpected sexual relationship with the much older wife of his father’s business partner, only to fall for her daughter as well.
The Graduate artfully blends satire and social commentary, capturing the zeitgeist of the ’60s. Mike Nichols skillfully navigates themes of alienation and conformity, while Dustin Hoffman’s breakthrough performance adds a layer of complexity to this iconic coming-of-age tale.
Top10nerScore86.529 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Béla Tarr
WRITERS: Béla Tarr, László Krasznahorkai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Miklós Gurbán, Rob Tregenza, Gábor Medvigy, Erwin Lanzensberger, Patrick De Ranter, Emil Novák
STARRING: Lars Rudolph, Peter Fitz, Hanna Schygulla, Janos Derzsi, Djoko Rossich
GENRE: Drama, Slow Cinema, Fekete széria
In the Hungarian lowlands, during Communist times, a town is unsettled by the arrival of a strange traveling circus. It attracts the interest of the inhabitants who line up by the hundreds to see the main attraction: a stuffed whale hiding a mysterious prince.
Werckmeister Harmonies is a mesmerizing symphony of existential dread and poetic beauty. Tarr’s mastery of long takes captivates, while its allegorical depth provokes profound introspection. A haunting, enigmatic marvel that resonates long after the credits roll.
Top10nerScore86.579 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Vittorio De Sica
WRITERS: Cesare Zavattini
CINEMATOGRAPHY: G.R. Aldo
STARRING: Carlo Battisti, Maria Pia Casilio, Lina Gennari, Napoleone
GENRE: Italian Neorealism, Drama
When elderly pensioner Umberto Domenico Ferrari returns to his boarding house from a protest calling for a hike in old-age pensions, his landlady demands her 15,000-lire rent by the end of the month or he and his small dog will be turned out onto the street. Unable to get the money in time, Umberto fakes illness to get sent to a hospital, giving his beloved dog to the landlady’s pregnant and abandoned maid for temporary safekeeping.
Umberto D. stands as a testament to neorealism’s enduring power, capturing the raw essence of post-war Italy with unmatched authenticity. De Sica’s deft direction and Gassman’s emotive performance evoke profound empathy, offering a timeless portrayal of human resilience.
Top10nerScore86.583 / 100
p>
DIRECTORS: Hideaki Anno, Kazuya Tsurumaki
WRITERS: Hideaki Anno
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hisao Shirai
STARRING: Megumi Ogata, Megumi Hayashibara, Yuko Miyamura, Kotono Mitsuishi, Yuriko Yamaguchi, Fumihiko Tachiki
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Anime, Mecha, Post-Apocalyptic, Surrealism, Disaster
The second of two theatrically released follow-ups to the Neon Genesis Evangelion series. Comprising of two alternate episodes which were first intended to take the place of episodes 25 and 26, this finale answers many of the questions surrounding the series, while also opening up some new possibilities.
The End of Evangelion stands as a daring and complex conclusion to the iconic series, skillfully blending psychological exploration with visually arresting animation. Its nuanced character development and intricate narrative provoke thoughtful discourse on existential themes.
Top10nerScore86.589 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Ingmar Bergman
WRITERS: Ingmar Bergman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sven Nykvist
STARRING: Ingrid Bergman, Liv Ullmann, Lena Nyman, Halvar Björk
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Family Drama
After a seven-year absence, Charlotte Andergast travels to Sweden to reunite with her daughter Eva. The pair have a troubled relationship: Charlotte sacrificed the responsibilities of motherhood for a career as a classical pianist. Over an emotional night, the pair reopen the wounds of the past. Charlotte gets another shock when she finds out that her mentally impaired daughter, Helena, is out of the asylum and living with Eva.
Autumn Sonata is a profoundly introspective exploration of familial dynamics, expertly crafted with insightful direction and powerhouse performances by Bergman and Ullmann. Its raw emotional honesty and hauntingly beautiful cinematography make it a timeless classic.
