TOP10NER'S SCORE84.458 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Leo McCarey
WRITERS: Viña Delmar
CINEMATOGRAPHY: William C. Mellor
STARRING: Beulah Bondi, Victor Moore, Thomas Mitchell, Fay Bainter
GENRE: Family Drama, Drama
At a family reunion, the Cooper clan find that their parents’ home is being foreclosed. “Temporarily,” Ma moves in with son George’s family, Pa with daughter Cora. But the parents are like sand in the gears of their middle-aged children’s well regulated households. Can the old folks take matters into their own hands?
Make Way for Tomorrow is a deeply moving exploration of aging and familial bonds. McCarey’s sensitive direction and poignant performances highlight the emotional struggles of an elderly couple facing separation, creating a timeless reflection on love, sacrifice, and the passage of time.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.463 / 100
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DIRECTOR: George A. Romero
WRITERS: George A. Romero, John A. Russo
CINEMATOGRAPHY: George A. Romero
STARRING: Duane Jones, Judith O’Dea, Karl Hardman, Marilyn Eastman
GENRE: Zombie, Horror
A group of people try to survive an attack of bloodthirsty zombies while trapped in a rural Pennsylvania farmhouse.
Night of the Living Dead revolutionizes horror with its stark realism and social commentary. Romero’s direction delivers relentless tension and terror, crafting a film that not only scares but also provokes thought on human nature and societal breakdown in the face of unimaginable crisis.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.511 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Howard Hawks
WRITERS: Jules Furthman, Leigh Brackett, William Faulkner
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sidney Hickox
STARRING: Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, John Ridgely, Martha Vickers, Dorothy Malone
GENRE: Film noir, Mystery, Crime
Private Investigator Philip Marlowe is hired by wealthy General Sternwood regarding a matter involving his youngest daughter Carmen. Before the complex case is over, Marlowe sees murder, blackmail, deception, and what might be love.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.527 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Federico Fellini
WRITERS: Federico Fellini, Tonino Guerra
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giuseppe Rotunno
STARRING: Bruno Zanin, Pupella Maggio, Armando Brancia, Ciccio Ingrassia, Magali Noël, Maria Antonietta Beluzzi
GENRE: Comedy, Coming-of-Age, Drama, Slice of Life
In an Italian seaside town, young Titta gets into trouble with his friends and watches various local eccentrics as they engage in often absurd behavior. Frequently clashing with his stern father and defended by his doting mother, Titta witnesses the actions of a wide range of characters, from his extended family to Fascist loyalists to sensual women, with certain moments shifting into fantastical scenarios.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.528 / 100
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DIRECTOR: F. W. Murnau
WRITERS: Carl Mayer
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Karl Freund
STARRING: Emil Jannings, Maly Delschaft, Hermann Vallentin, Lil Dagover
GENRE: Kammerspiel, Psychological Drama
An aging doorman, after being fired from his prestigious job at a luxurious Hotel is forced to face the scorn of his friends, neighbours and society.
The Last Laugh is a silent film masterpiece, showcasing Murnau’s innovative direction and Jannings’ powerful performance. Its compelling narrative and groundbreaking use of the “unchained camera” technique create a poignant, visually stunning exploration of dignity and despair.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.533 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Billy Wilder
WRITERS: Billy Wilder, Agatha Christie, Harry Kurnitz
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Russell Harlan
STARRING: Charles Laughton, Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, Elsa Lanchester, John Williams
GENRE: Legal Drama, Mystery, Whodunit
When Leonard Vole is arrested for the sensational murder of a rich, middle-aged widow, the famous Sir Wilfrid Robarts agrees to appear on his behalf. Sir Wilfrid, recovering from a near-fatal heart attack, is supposed to be on a diet of bland, civil suits—but the lure of the criminal courts is too much for him, especially when the case is so difficult.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.540 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Lewis Milestone
WRITERS: George Abbott
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Arthur Edeson
STARRING: Lew Ayres, Louis Wolheim, John Wray, Arnold Lucy
GENRE: War, Period Drama
A young soldier faces profound disillusionment in the soul-destroying horror of World War I. Together with several other young German soldiers, he experiences the horrors of war, such evil of which he had not conceived of when signing up to fight. They eventually become sad, tormented, and confused of their purpose.
All Quiet on the Western Front is a harrowing portrayal of the brutality of war. Milestone’s direction and its stark, realistic depiction of soldiers’ experiences create a powerful anti-war statement that resonates deeply, capturing the futility and human cost of conflict.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.559 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Christopher Nolan
WRITERS: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Wally Pfister
STARRING: Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall
GENRE: Mystery, Drama, Thriller, Period Drama
A mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy – full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.576 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wong Kar-wai
WRITERS: Wong Kar-wai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christopher Doyle
STARRING: Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Leslie Cheung, Chang Chen, Gregory Dayton
GENRE: Romance, Drama, LGBTQ+
A couple take a trip to Argentina in search of a new beginning, but instead find themselves drifting ever further apart.
Happy Together mesmerizes with its poignant portrayal of love amidst chaos. Wong Kar-wai’s visual poetry, coupled with Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung’s electrifying chemistry, crafts an unforgettable tale of resilience and redemption. A triumph of emotion and artistry.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.617 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Ingmar Bergman
WRITERS: Ingmar Bergman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sven Nykvist
STARRING: Gunnar Björnstrand, Ingrid Thulin, Max von Sydow, Gunnel Lindblom
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Drama
Small-town pastor Tomas performs his duties mechanically before a dwindling congregation, including his stubbornly devoted lover, Märta. When he is asked to assuage a troubled parishioner’s fear of nuclear annihilation, Tomas is terrified to find that he can provide nothing but his own doubt.
Winter Light captivates with its stark portrayal of existential crises, seamlessly blending symbolism and psychological insight. Nykvist’s mastery of chiaroscuro adds profound visual depth, accentuating the film’s exploration of faith, doubt, and the human condition.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.631 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Charlie Chaplin
WRITERS: Charlie Chaplin
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Roland Totheroh
STARRING: Charlie Chaplin, Merna Kennedy, Al Ernest Garcia, Harry Crocker
GENRE: Slapstick, Romance
Charlie, a wandering tramp, becomes a circus handyman – soon the star of the show – and falls in love with the circus owner’s stepdaughter.
The Circus exhibits Chaplin’s unparalleled comedic genius, blending physicality and wit. The film’s seamless integration of slapstick and social commentary underscores Chaplin’s astute storytelling, reaffirming his status as a cinematic pioneer in the silent era.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.635 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jean-Luc Godard
WRITERS: Jean-Luc Godard
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Raoul Coutard
STARRING: Anna Karina, Sady Rebbot, André S. Labarthe, Guylaine Schlumberger, Gérard Hoffman
GENRE: French New Wave, Drama
Nana, a restless young Parisian, descends into prostitution when her aspirations to become an actress falter. Recently separated from her husband, Nana is completely alone except for her heartless pimp and the women she knows from hooking in the banlieue.
Vivre Sa Vie is an intimate and poignant exploration of a woman’s search for identity. Godard’s innovative direction and Karina’s captivating performance combine to create a deeply affecting narrative that delves into themes of freedom, existentialism, and the human condition.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.652 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Alain Resnais
WRITERS: Alain Robbe-Grillet
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sacha Vierny
STARRING: Giorgio Albertazzi, Delphine Seyrig, Sacha Pitoëff, Françoise Bertin
GENRE: Left Bank, Surrealism, Mystery, Experimental
In a huge, old-fashioned luxury hotel a stranger tries to persuade a married woman to run away with him, but it seems she hardly remembers the affair they may have had (or not?) last year at Marienbad.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.695 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jacques Tourneur
WRITERS: Daniel Mainwaring
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Nicholas Musuraca
STARRING: Robert Mitchum, Jane Greer, Kirk Douglas, Rhonda Fleming, Richard Webb, Steve Brodie
GENRE: Film noir, Crime
Jeff Bailey seems to be a mundane gas station owner in remote Bridgeport, CA. He is dating local girl Ann Miller and lives a quiet life. But Jeff has a secret past, and when a mysterious stranger arrives in town, Jeff is forced to return to the dark world he had tried to escape.
Out of the Past exhibits a remarkable blend of taut narrative and atmospheric visuals, masterfully navigating the labyrinth of noir. Tourneur’s direction and Mitchum’s nuanced performance contribute to this enduring classic’s status as a quintessential example of the genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.700 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wes Anderson
WRITERS: Wes Anderson, Noah Baumbach
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tristan Oliver
STARRING: George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Owen Wilson
GENRE: Comedy, Puppet Animation, Adventure, Family
The Fantastic Mr. Fox, bored with his current life, plans a heist against the three local farmers. The farmers, tired of sharing their chickens with the sly fox, seek revenge against him and his family.
Fantastic Mr. Fox brilliantly captures Roald Dahl’s whimsy through Anderson’s distinctive stop-motion animation, melding humor and heart. The ensemble cast, led by Clooney, elevates the film with nuanced performances, delivering a delightful and visually inventive adaptation.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.785 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Bryan Singer
WRITERS: Christopher McQuarrie
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Newton Thomas Sigel
STARRING: Kevin Spacey, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Stephen Baldwin, Benicio del Toro, Kevin Pollak, Pete Postlethwaite
GENRE: Crime, Thriller, Mystery
Held in an L.A. interrogation room, Verbal Kint attempts to convince the feds that a mythic crime lord, Keyser Soze, not only exists, but was also responsible for drawing him and his four partners into a multi-million dollar heist that ended with an explosion in San Pedro harbor – leaving few survivors. Verbal lures his interrogators with an incredible story of the crime lord’s almost supernatural prowess.
The Usual Suspects is a riveting crime thriller celebrated for its enigmatic storytelling and standout performances. Singer’s directorial finesse and McQuarrie’s layered screenplay create a cinematic puzzle that captivates audiences with its cunning twists and turns.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.826 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Sergio Leone
WRITERS: Sergio Leone, Fulvio Morsella, Luciano Vincenzoni
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Massimo Dallamano
STARRING: Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, Gian Maria Volonté, Klaus Kinski, Luigi Pistilli, Mara Krupp
GENRE: Spaghetti Western
The cigar-chewing ‘Man With No Name’ is back in this sequel to A Fistful of Dollars. Following a duel, Col. Mortimer and The Man team up to collect the reward for wanted fugitive ruffian El Indio.
For a Few Dollars More exemplifies Leone’s prowess in crafting gripping Westerns. The film’s dynamic cinematography, Morricone’s iconic score, and Eastwood’s stoic performance contribute to a defining moment in the Spaghetti Western genre, solidifying its lasting impact on cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.826 / 100
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DIRECTORS: Daniel Scheinert, Daniel Kwan
WRITERS: Daniel Scheinert, Daniel Kwan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Larkin Seiple
STARRING: Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Stephanie Hsu, Jamie Lee Curtis, James Hong
GENRE: Absurdist Comedy, Portal Fantasy, Family Drama, Science Fiction, Action
An aging Chinese immigrant is swept up in an insane adventure, where she alone can save what’s important to her by connecting with the lives she could have led in other universes.
Everything Everywhere All at Once is a mind-bending experience that defies genre conventions. The Daniels’ inventiveness and captivating performances all-round deliver a kaleidoscopic journey through multiple dimensions, blending humor, heart, and existential wonder.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.832 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Luis Buñuel
WRITERS: Luis Buñuel, Julio Alejandro
CINEMATOGRAPHY: José F. Aguayo
STARRING: Silvia Pinal, Francisco Rabal, Fernando Rey, Margarita Lozano, Victoria Zinny
GENRE: Drama, Satire
Viridiana is preparing to start her life as a nun when she is sent, somewhat unwillingly, to visit her aging uncle, Don Jaime. He supports her; but the two have met only once. Jaime thinks Viridiana resembles his dead wife. Viridiana has secretly despised this man all her life and finds her worst fears proven when Jaime grows determined to seduce his pure niece. Viridiana becomes undone as her uncle upends the plans she had made to join the convent.
Viridiana stands as a testament to Luis Buñuel’s unparalleled ability to challenge societal norms. The film’s subversive narrative and rich symbolism provide a captivating exploration of morality, religion, and the human condition, marking it as a landmark in cinematic rebellion.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.861 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Luchino Visconti
WRITERS: Luchino Visconti, Suso Cecchi d’Amico, Massimo Franciosa, Enrico Medioli, Pasquale Festa Campanile
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giuseppe Rotunno
STARRING: Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, Claudia Cardinale, Paolo Stoppa, Rina Morelli
GENRE: Period Drama, Political Drama, Epic
As Garibaldi’s troops begin the unification of Italy in the 1860s, an aristocratic Sicilian family grudgingly adapts to the sweeping social changes undermining their way of life. Proud but pragmatic Prince Don Fabrizio Salina allows his war hero nephew, Tancredi, to marry Angelica, the beautiful daughter of gauche, bourgeois Don Calogero, in order to maintain the family’s accustomed level of comfort and political clout.
The Leopard captivates with Luchino Visconti’s meticulous attention to historical detail, portraying the intricate societal shifts in 19th-century Sicily. Lancaster’s nuanced performance and Rotunno’s sumptuous cinematography elevate this epic tale to a cinematic triumph.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.919 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jacques Demy
WRITERS: Jacques Demy
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jean Rabier
STARRING: Catherine Deneuve, Nino Castelnuovo, Anne Vernon, Marc Michel, Ellen Farner
GENRE: Musical, Romance, Melodrama
This simple romantic tragedy begins in 1957. Guy Foucher, a 20-year-old French auto mechanic, has fallen in love with 17-year-old Geneviève Emery, an employee in her widowed mother’s chic but financially embattled umbrella shop. On the evening before Guy is to leave for a two-year tour of combat in Algeria, he and Geneviève make love. She becomes pregnant and must choose between waiting for Guy’s return or accepting an offer of marriage from a wealthy diamond merchant.
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg showcases Demy’s innovative use of color and music, elevating the romantic genre. Deneuve’s performance, combined with Michel Legrand’s unforgettable score, delivers a poignant exploration of love and loss in a visually stunning cinematic experience.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.921 / 100
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DIRECTOR: George Cukor
WRITERS: Donald Ogden Stewart, Waldo Salt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Joseph Ruttenberg
STARRING: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, James Stewart, Ruth Hussey, John Howard
GENRE: Romantic Comedy, Screwball Comedy
When a rich woman’s ex-husband and a tabloid-type reporter turn up just before her planned remarriage, she begins to learn the truth about herself.
The Philadelphia Story is a timeless romantic comedy filled with wit and charm. Cukor’s direction, paired with the sparkling chemistry of Hepburn, Grant, and Stewart, creates a delightful blend of humor and heart, offering a captivating exploration of love, forgiveness, and self-discovery.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.943 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Andrei Tarkovsky
WRITERS: Andrei Tarkovsky, Tonino Guerra
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giuseppe Lanci
STARRING: Oleg Yankovsky, Erland Josephson, Domiziana Giordano
GENRE: Slow Cinema, Psychological Drama
The Russian poet Andrei Gorchakov, accompanied by guide and translator Eugenia, is traveling through Italy researching the life of an 18th-century Russian composer. In an ancient spa town, he meets the lunatic Domenico, who years earlier had imprisoned his own family in his house for seven years to save them from the evils of the world. Seeing some deep truth in Domenico’s act, Andrei becomes drawn to him.
Nostalgia impressively navigates the intricacies of memory and human connection, skillfully interweaving diverse narratives to explore the universal theme of longing. Its storytelling, coupled with sublime visuals, reflects Tarkovsky’s profound understanding of the human experience.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.962 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Curtis Hanson
WRITERS: Curtis Hanson, Brian Helgeland
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dante Spinotti
STARRING: Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kevin Spacey, Kim Basinger, James Cromwell, Danny DeVito
GENRE: Neo-Noir, Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Police Procedural
Three detectives in the corrupt and brutal L.A. police force of the 1950s use differing methods to uncover a conspiracy behind the shotgun slayings of the patrons at an all-night diner.
L.A. Confidential enthralls with its intricate narrative, impeccable period detail, and powerhouse performances, delivering a gripping neo-noir experience. The film’s skillful direction and rich character development cement its status as a quintessential entry in the genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.969 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Frank Capra
WRITERS: Lewis R. Foster, Sidney Buchman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Joseph Walker
STARRING: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, Charlie Ruggles, May Robson, Barry Fitzgerald
GENRE: Political Drama
Naive and idealistic Jefferson Smith, leader of the Boy Rangers, is appointed to the United States Senate by the puppet governor of his state. He soon discovers, upon going to Washington, many shortcomings of the political process as his earnest goal of a national boys’ camp leads to a conflict with the state political boss.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a timeless exploration of civic duty and political integrity. James Stewart’s riveting performance and Capra’s astute direction create an enduring portrayal of the American democratic spirit, resonating with audiences across generations.
TOP10NER'S SCORE84.995 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Lee Unkrich
WRITERS: Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich, John Lasseter, Michael Arndt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jeremy Lasky
STARRING: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Ned Beatty, Don Rickles, Estelle Harris, Michael Keaton
GENRE: Computer Animation, Adventure, Family, Comedy, Low Fantasy
Woody, Buzz, and the rest of Andy’s toys haven’t been played with in years. With Andy about to go to college, the gang find themselves accidentally left at a nefarious day care center. The toys must band together to escape and return home to Andy
Toy Story 3 is a heartwarming journey into nostalgia, blending humor and emotion seamlessly. Its captivating storytelling, coupled with vibrant animation, crafts a poignant tale of friendship and acceptance. A delightful adventure cherished by audiences of all ages.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.002 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Mikhail Kalatozov
WRITERS: Enrique Pineda Barnet, Yevgeny Yevtushenko
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sergei Urusevsky
STARRING: Sergio Corrieri, Salvador Wood, José Gallardo, Raúl García
GENRE: Political Drama, Anthology Film, Propaganda Film
Four episodes chronicle Cuba’s ascent from colonialist degradation and totalitarian rule of Batista’s regime to a revolution that spreads across the country’s classes and regional lines.
I Am Cuba is a visually stunning masterpiece that transcends cinematic boundaries. Kalatozov’s direction, coupled with innovative camera work, immerses viewers in the beauty and complexity of Cuban life, capturing both the spirit of revolution and the poetry of everyday existence.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.005 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jean Vigo
WRITERS: Jean Vigo, Jean Guinée, Albert Riéra
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Boris Kaufman, Jean-Paul Alphen, Louis Berger
STARRING: Jean Dasté, Dita Parlo, Michel Simon, Gilles Margaritis
GENRE: Romance, Poetic Realism, Drama
Capricious small-town girl Juliette and barge captain Jean marry after a whirlwind courtship, and she comes to live aboard his boat, L’Atalante. As they make their way down the Seine, Jean grows weary of Juliette’s flirtations with his all-male crew, and Juliette longs to escape the monotony of the boat and experience the excitement of a big city. When she steals away to Paris by herself, her husband begins to think their marriage was a mistake.
L’Atalante is a poetic voyage exploring the complexities of love and humanity. With innovative visuals and a profound understanding of emotion, Vigo crafts a timeless narrative that captivates audiences with its intimate portrayal of relationships and life’s intricacies.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.027 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Howard Hawks
WRITERS: Dudley Nichols, Hagar Wilde
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Russell Metty
STARRING: Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant, Charlie Ruggles, May Robson, Barry Fitzgerald
GENRE: Screwball Comedy, Romantic Comedy
David Huxley is waiting to get a bone he needs for his museum collection. Through a series of strange circumstances, he meets Susan Vance, and the duo have a series of misadventures which include a leopard called Baby.
Bringing Up Baby is a comedic triumph that seamlessly blends screwball charm with sophisticated wit. Hawks’ direction and Hepburn’s performance are standout, while the film’s intricate pacing and clever dialogue solidify its enduring status as a classic in American cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.051 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Emir Kusturica
WRITERS: Emir Kusturica, Dušan Kovačević
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Vilko Filač
STARRING: Miki Manojlović, Lazar Ristovski, Mirjana Joković, Slavko Štimac, Ernst Stötzner
GENRE: Black Comedy, War, Satire, Drama, Magical Realism
Black marketeers Marko and Blacky manufacture and sell weapons to the Communist resistance in WWII Belgrade, living the good life along the way. Marko’s surreal duplicity propels him up the ranks of the Communist Party, and he eventually abandons Blacky and steals his girlfriend. After a lengthy stay in a below-ground shelter, the couple reemerges during the Yugoslavian Civil War of the 1990s as Marko realizes that the situation is ripe for exploitation.
Underground captivates with its intricate storytelling and historical accuracy, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of wartime Europe. The film skillfully weaves together complex narratives, delivering a compelling cinematic experience that both informs and entertains.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.074 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Huston
WRITERS: John Huston
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Arthur Edeson
STARRING: Humphrey Bogart, Mary Astor, Sydney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre, Lee Patrick
GENRE: Film noir, Mystery, Crime
The most famous screen version of Dashiell Hammett’s 1930 novel of the same name is a quintessential Hollywood film noir as private detective Sam Spade gets wrapped up in a web of deception, all surrounding a gold-encrusted life-sized statue of a falcon.
The Maltese Falcon is a classic film noir that embodies suspense and intrigue. Huston’s class, paired with Bogart’s iconic performance, creates a gripping narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mysteries surrounding the coveted falcon statue.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.097 / 100
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DIRECTOR: William Friedkin
WRITERS: William Peter Blatty
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Owen Roizman
STARRING: Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von Sydow, Jason Miller, Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn, Jack MacGowran
GENRE: Supernatural Horror, New Hollywood
12-year-old Regan MacNeil begins to adapt an explicit new personality as strange events befall the local area of Georgetown. Her mother becomes torn between science and superstition in a desperate bid to save her daughter, and ultimately turns to her last hope: Father Damien Karras, a troubled priest who is struggling with his own faith.
The Exorcist is a groundbreaking horror film that terrifies with its chilling atmosphere and psychological depth. Friedkin’s direction, combined with unforgettable performances, delivers a visceral and haunting exploration of faith, doubt, and the battle between good and evil.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.097 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jules Dassin
WRITERS: Auguste Le Breton, René Wheeler
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Philippe Agostini
STARRING: Jean Servais, Carl Möhner, Robert Manuel, Jules Dassin, Pierre Grasset
GENRE: Heist Film, Thriller, Polar, Gangster Film
Out of prison after a five-year stretch, jewel thief Tony turns down a quick job his friend Jo offers him, until he discovers that his old girlfriend Mado has become the lover of local gangster Pierre Grutter during Tony’s absence. Expanding a minor smash-and-grab into a full-scale jewel heist, Tony and his crew appear to get away clean, but their actions after the job is completed threaten the lives of everyone involved.
Rififi stands as an enduring testament to Dassin’s innovative storytelling and the film’s trailblazing heist sequence. Its meticulously choreographed suspense, atmospheric cinematography, and noir influences contribute to an enduring legacy in the crime thriller genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.105 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Woody Allen
WRITERS: Woody Allen, Marshall Brickman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gordon Willis
STARRING: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Michael Murphy, Mariel Hemingway, Meryl Streep, Anne Byrne
GENRE: Romantic Comedy, Drama, New Hollywood
Manhattan explores how the life of a middle-aged television writer dating a teenage girl is further complicated when he falls in love with his best friend’s mistress.
Manhattan mesmerizes with its lush cinematography, evocative jazz score, and Woody Allen’s trademark wit. The film’s vibrant portrayal of New York City serves as both backdrop and character, enhancing its timeless exploration of love, art, and the human condition.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.118 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Luchino Visconti
WRITERS: Luchino Visconti, Suso Cecchi d’Amico, Massimo Franciosa, Enrico Medioli, Pasquale Festa Campanile, Vasco Pratolini
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giuseppe Rotunno
STARRING: Alain Delon, Renato Salvatori, Annie Girardot, Katina Paxinou, Spiros Focás, Max Cartier
GENRE: Drama, Melodrama
Rocco and His Brothers stands as a tour de force in Italian cinema, skillfully intertwining gritty realism and familial drama. Visconti’s meticulous storytelling and nuanced characterizations elevate this epic, showcasing the complex dynamics of a post-war Milanese family.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.123 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Darren Aronofsky
WRITERS: Darren Aronofsky, Hubert Selby Jr.
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Matthew Libatique
STARRING: Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Marlon Wayans, Christopher McDonald
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Drama
The hopes and dreams of four ambitious people are shattered when their drug addictions begin spiraling out of control. A look into addiction and how it overcomes the mind and body.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.157 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Nicholas Ray
WRITERS: Dorothy B. Hughes, Andrew Solt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Burnett Guffey
STARRING: Humphrey Bogart, Gloria Grahame, Frank Lovejoy, Carl Benton Reid
GENRE: Film noir, Drama, Mystery
Dixon Steele, a down-on-his luck studio scribe with a history of violent behavior, is a murder suspect until his neighbor, Laurel Gray, lies to to the police by providing Steele with an air-tight alibi. Is he truly innocent or is Laurel destined to become the next victim of Steele’s violent temper?
In a Lonely Place captivates with its nuanced exploration of the human psyche and compelling narrative. Bogart’s performance and Ray’s direction seamlessly intertwine, offering a gripping noir experience enriched by atmospheric visuals and a complex character study.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.174 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Stuart Rosenberg
WRITERS: Donn Pearce, Frank Pierson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Conrad L. Hall
STARRING: Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin, J.D. Cannon, Lou Antonio
GENRE: Prison Film, Drama, New Hollywood
When petty criminal Luke Jackson is sentenced to two years in a Florida prison farm, he doesn’t play by the rules of either the sadistic warden or the yard’s resident heavy, Dragline, who ends up admiring the new guy’s unbreakable will. Luke’s bravado, even in the face of repeated stints in the prison’s dreaded solitary confinement cell, “the box,” make him a rebel hero to his fellow convicts and a thorn in the side of the prison officers.
Cool Hand Luke is a timeless classic that captivates with its rebellious spirit and unforgettable characters. Rosenberg’s direction, paired with Newman’s charismatic performance, delivers a powerful commentary on individualism and resilience in the face of oppression.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.187 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jordan Peele
WRITERS: Jordan Peele
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Denson Baker, Toby Oliver
STARRING: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Catherine Keener, Bradley Whitford, Lil Rel Howery
GENRE: Psychological Horror, Satire
Chris and his girlfriend Rose go upstate to visit her parents for the weekend. At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he never could have imagined.
Get Out skillfully navigates the horror genre, blending social commentary with suspense. Peele’s directorial debut captivates with its insightful exploration of race relations, delivering a thought-provoking narrative that’s both culturally relevant and cinematically compelling.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.199 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Robert Mulligan
WRITERS: Horton Foote
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Russell Harlan
STARRING: Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alford, Brock Peters
GENRE: Legal Drama, Coming-of-Age, Southern Gothic
Scout Finch, 6, and her older brother Jem live in sleepy Maycomb, Alabama, spending much of their time with their friend Dill and spying on their reclusive and mysterious neighbor, Boo Radley. When Atticus, their widowed father and a respected lawyer, defends a black man named Tom Robinson against fabricated rape charges, the trial and tangent events expose the children to evils of racism and stereotyping.
To Kill a Mockingbird stands as an enduring testament to the power of storytelling, skillfully adapting Harper Lee’s novel. Peck’s iconic portrayal of Atticus Finch and the film’s exploration of racial injustice resonate with timeless relevance, earning it a revered place in cinematic history.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.209 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Víctor Erice
WRITERS: Francisco J. Querejeta, Ángel Fernández Santos
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Luis Cuadrado
STARRING: Ana Torrent, Fernando Fernán Gómez, Isabel Tellería, Teresa Gimpera
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Drama, Period Drama
In a small Castilian village in 1940, in the wake of the country’s devastating civil war, six-year-old Ana attends a traveling movie show of Frankenstein and becomes possessed by the memory of it. A bewitching portrait of a child’s haunted inner life.
The Spirit of the Beehive delicately captures the nuanced complexities of childhood through its haunting visuals and subtle storytelling. Erice’s direction and Torrent’s performance contribute to a cinematic exploration of innocence, curiosity, and the enigmatic nature of growing up.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.225 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Andrei Tarkovsky
WRITERS: Andrei Konchalovsky, Mikhail Papava, Vladimir Bogomolov
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Vadim Yusov
STARRING: Nikolai Burlyaev, Valentina Malyavina, Yevgeny Zharikov, Nikolai Grinko, Valentin Zubkov
GENRE: War, Drama, Soviet New Wave
During World War II, 12-year old Ivan works as a spy on the eastern front. The small Ivan can cross the German lines unnoticed to collect information. Three Soviet officers try to take care of this boy-child.
Ivan’s Childhood captivates with its profound cinematography, emphasizing the psychological toll of war. Tarkovsky’s debut showcases innovative visuals and a nuanced narrative, earning praise for its unflinching portrayal of the human spirit amidst conflict.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.267 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Peter Bogdanovich
WRITERS: Alvin Sargent
CINEMATOGRAPHY: László Kovács
STARRING: Ryan O’Neal, Tatum O’Neal, Madeline Kahn, John Hillerman
GENRE: Road Movie, Comedy, New Hollywood, Buddy, Drama
A bible salesman finds himself saddled with a young girl who may or may not be his daughter, and the two forge an unlikely partnership as a money-making con team in Depression-era Kansas.
Paper Moon is a delightful blend of nostalgia and humor, anchored by the charming dynamic between Ryan O’Neal and real-life daughter Tatum. Bogdanovich’s direction infuses the film with warmth and wit, creating a timeless classic that continues to enchant audiences.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.286 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Martin Scorsese
WRITERS: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Richardson
STARRING: Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci, James Woods, Don Rickles, Frank Vincent
GENRE: Gangster Film, Drama, Period Drama
In early-1970s Las Vegas, low-level mobster Sam “Ace” Rothstein gets tapped by his bosses to head the Tangiers Casino. At first, he’s a great success in the job, but over the years, problems with his loose-cannon enforcer Nicky Santoro, his ex-hustler wife Ginger, her con-artist ex Lester Diamond and a handful of corrupt politicians put Sam in ever-increasing danger.
Scorsese’s Casino is a high-stakes thrill ride through Sin City’s underbelly. De Niro and Pesci deliver electrifying performances, while Stone sizzles on screen. With its gripping narrative and lavish visuals, it’s a cinematic jackpot that keeps you glued till the last roll of the dice.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.305 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Henri-Georges Clouzot
WRITERS: Henri-Georges Clouzot, Jérôme Géronimi
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Armand Thirard
STARRING: Paul Meurisse, Simone Signoret, Véra Clouzot, Charles Vanel
GENRE: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Crime
The cruel and abusive headmaster of a boarding school, Michel Delassalle, is murdered by an unlikely duo – his meek wife and the mistress he brazenly flaunts. The women become increasingly unhinged by a series of odd occurrences after Delassalle’s corpse mysteriously disappears.
Diabolique seamlessly blends suspense and psychological intrigue, expertly helmed by Henri-Georges Clouzot. Its innovative narrative twists and impeccable performances evoke enduring admiration, solidifying its status as a classic in the psychological thriller genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.354 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Billy Wilder
WRITERS: Billy Wilder, Walter Newman, Lesser Samuels
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Charles Lang
STARRING: Kirk Douglas, Jan Sterling, Robert Arthur, Porter Hall, Ray Teal
GENRE: Drama, Satire, Film gris
A frustrated former big-city journalist now stuck working for an Albuquerque newspaper exploits a story about a man trapped in a cave to revitalize his career, but the situation quickly escalates into an out-of-control media circus.
Ace in the Hole is a scathing exploration of media sensationalism, featuring Kirk Douglas in a compelling performance. The film, although initially overlooked, now stands as a prescient critique of the ethical pitfalls inherent in the pursuit of journalistic success.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.396 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Denis Villeneuve
WRITERS: Denis Villeneuve, Valérie Beaugrand-Champagne, Wajdi Mouawad
CINEMATOGRAPHY: André Turpin
STARRING: Lubna Azabal, Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin, Maxim Gaudette, Rémy Girard
GENRE: Drama, Mystery, War
A mother’s last wishes send twins Jeanne and Simon on a journey to Middle East in search of their tangled roots. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad’s acclaimed play, Incendies tells the powerful and moving tale of two young adults’ voyage to the core of deep-rooted hatred, never-ending wars and enduring love.
Incendies immerses audiences in an emotional labyrinth, navigating through war-torn landscapes and familial mysteries. Denis Villeneuve’s deft direction and powerful performances ignite a cinematic journey that’s both haunting and profoundly moving.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.473 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Peter Bogdanovich
WRITERS: Larry McMurtry, Peter Bogdanovich
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Surtees
STARRING: Jeff Bridges, Timothy Bottoms, Cybill Shepherd, Ben Johnson, Cloris Leachman, Ellen Burstyn
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, New Hollywood, Drama, Slice of Life, Period Drama
High school seniors and best friends, Sonny and Duane, live in a dying Texas town. The handsome Duane is dating local beauty, Jacy, while Sonny is having an affair with the coach’s wife, Ruth. As graduation nears, both boys contemplate their futures. While Duane eyes the army and Sonny takes over a local business, each boy struggles to figure out if he can escape this dead-end town and build a better life somewhere else.
The Last Picture Show stands as a poignant reflection of small-town America in the early 1950s. Bogdanovich’s keen observation and a stellar ensemble cast deliver a compelling narrative, capturing the complexities of adolescence and the decay of a once-vibrant community.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.491 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Sam Mendes
WRITERS: Alan Ball
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Conrad L. Hall
STARRING: Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch, Mena Suvari, Wes Bentley, Chris Cooper
GENRE: Drama, Black Comedy, Family Drama
Lester Burnham, a depressed suburban father in a mid-life crisis, decides to turn his hectic life around after developing an infatuation with his daughter’s attractive friend.
American Beauty captivates with its incisive exploration of suburban malaise, skillfully blending dark humor with poignant drama. Mendes and Ball meticulously dissect societal norms, delivering a thought-provoking and visually striking commentary on the American Dream.
TOP10NER'S SCORE85.506 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Brian De Palma
WRITERS: Oliver Stone
CINEMATOGRAPHY: John A. Alonzo
STARRING: Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer, Robert Loggia, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
GENRE: Gangster Film, Drama
After getting a green card in exchange for assassinating a Cuban government official, Tony Montana stakes a claim on the drug trade in Miami. Viciously murdering anyone who stands in his way, Tony eventually becomes the biggest drug lord in the state, controlling nearly all the cocaine that comes through Miami. But increased pressure from the police, wars with Colombian drug cartels and his own drug-fueled paranoia serve to fuel the flames of his eventual downfall.
Scarface is a visceral exploration of the American Dream, elevated by Pacino’s iconic performance as Tony Montana. De Palma’s vision and Stone’s screenplay skillfully examine the dark underbelly of ambition, power, and the consequences of excess in the pursuit of success.
