TOP10NER'S SCORE82.647 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Andrew Stanton
WRITERS: Andrew Stanton, Bob Peterson, David Reynolds
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jeremy Lasky, Sharon Calahan
STARRING: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould, Willem Dafoe, Brad Garrett, Allison Janney, Austin Pendleton
GENRE: Adventure, Family, Computer Animation, Comedy, Fable
Nemo, an adventurous young clownfish, is unexpectedly taken from his Great Barrier Reef home to a dentist’s office aquarium. It’s up to his worrisome father Marlin and a friendly but forgetful fish Dory to bring Nemo home – meeting vegetarian sharks, surfer dude turtles, hypnotic jellyfish, hungry seagulls, and more along the way.
Finding Nemo demonstrates Pixar’s mastery in animation, blending stunning visuals with a heartfelt narrative. The film’s meticulous attention to marine biology and behavioral accuracy enhances its charm, creating an engaging and educational experience for audiences of all ages.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.688 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Claire Denis
WRITERS: Claire Denis, Herman Melville, Jean-Pol Fargeau
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Agnès Godard
STARRING: Denis Lavant, Michel Subor, Grégoire Colin
GENRE: Psychological Drama
Foreign Legion officer, Galoup, recalls his once glorious life, leading troops in the Gulf of Djibouti. His existence there was happy, strict and regimented, but the arrival of a promising young recruit, Sentain, plants the seeds of jealousy in Galoup’s mind.
Beau Travail delves into the psychological intricacies of military life against Djibouti’s stark backdrop. Lavant’s compelling performance, coupled with Godard’s cinematography, crafts a nuanced portrayal of existential struggle within the confines of strict discipline.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.707 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wong Kar-wai
WRITERS: Wong Kar-wai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christopher Doyle
STARRING: Leon Lai, Michelle Reis, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Charlie Yeung, Karen Mok
GENRE: Romance, Crime, Drama
In this bifurcated crime narrative, a disillusioned hitman attempts to escape from his violent lifestyle against the wishes of his partner, who is infatuated with him, and an eccentric mute repeatedly encounters, then subsequently falls for a depressed woman looking for the prostitute who supposedly stole her ex-boyfriend’s affections.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.752 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Otto Preminger
WRITERS: Ring Lardner Jr., Samuel Hoffenstein, Jay Dratler, Elizabeth Reinhardt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Joseph LaShelle
STARRING: Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews, Clifton Webb, Vincent Price, Judith Anderson, Dorothy Adams
GENRE: Film noir, Romance, Whodunit, Mystery
A police detective falls in love with the woman whose murder he’s investigating.
Laura stands as a cinematic triumph of its era, skillfully blending suspense and noir elements. Otto Preminger’s direction, coupled with stellar performances, navigates a labyrinth of mystery with finesse, contributing to its enduring influence on the film noir genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.752 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Ford
WRITERS: Ben Hecht, Dudley Nichols, Ernest Haycox
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Bert Glennon
STARRING: John Wayne, Claire Trevor, Thomas Mitchell, John Carradine, Andy Devine, George Bancroft
GENRE: Western, Road Movie
A group of people traveling on a stagecoach find their journey complicated by the threat of Geronimo, and learn something about each other in the process.
Stagecoach is a cinematic milestone, revolutionizing the Western genre with its innovative narrative and dynamic ensemble cast. The film’s influential use of Monument Valley as a backdrop and its pioneering approach to character development set new standards for storytelling.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.764 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Alfred Hitchcock
WRITERS: Alma Reville, Sally Benson, Thornton Wilder
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Joseph A. Valentine
STARRING: Teresa Wright, Joseph Cotton, Henry Travers, Patricia Collinge, Hume Cronyn, Macdonald Carey
GENRE: Psychological Thriller, Film noir
A bored teen living in Santa Rosa, California, Charlotte “Charlie” Newton, is frustrated because nothing seems to be happening in her life and that of her family. Then, she receives wonderful news: her uncle (for whom she was named), Charlie Oakley, is arriving for a visit. But Uncle Charlie may not be the man he seems to be.
Shadow of a Doubt is Hitchcock at his most cunning, weaving a spellbinding narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With deft direction and stellar performances, it’s a gripping exploration of deception and family dynamics that stands the test of time.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.766 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Woody Allen
WRITERS: Woody Allen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sven Nykvist
STARRING: Martin Landau, Woody Allen, Anjelica Huston, Mia Farrow, Alan Alda, Claire Bloom, Jerry Orbach, Sam Waterston, Joanna Gleason, Caroline Aaron
GENRE: Drama
An ophthalmologist’s mistress threatens to reveal their affair to his wife, while a married documentary filmmaker is infatuated by another woman.
In Woody Allen’s thought-provoking Crimes and Misdemeanors, moral dilemmas are skillfully woven into a narrative tapestry, challenging viewers to ponder the intricacies of human nature and the consequences of our actions. A gripping exploration of ethics and existentialism.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.767 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Toshio Matsumoto
WRITERS: Toshio Matsumoto
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tatsuo Suzuki
STARRING: Shinnosuke Ikehata, Yoshio Tsuchiya, Osamu Ogasawara, Toyosaburo Uchiyama
GENRE: Japanese New Wave, Psychological Drama, Queer Cinema, LGBTQ+, Postmodernism
In 1960s Tokyo, Gonda owns a bar in which the gay, cross-dresser, and trans scenes meet. Gonda is in a relationship with the madam of the bar, Leda. As the younger Eddie starts a passionate affair with Gonda, she ignites the jealousy of Leda, unaware of another kind of history between them.
Funeral Parade of Roses deftly navigates avant-garde cinema, melding together documentary elements and experimental narrative. Matsumoto’s innovative visuals and societal commentary reveal a deep grasp of the era, making it a groundbreaking exploration of identity and rebellion.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.789 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Robert Bresson
WRITERS: Robert Bresson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Léonce-Henri Burel
STARRING: Martin LaSalle, Marika Green, Jean Pélégri, Pierre Leymarie
GENRE: Drama, Crime
Michel takes up pickpocketing on a lark and is arrested soon after. His mother dies shortly after his release, and despite the objections of his only friend, Jacques, and his mother’s neighbor Jeanne, Michel teams up with a couple of petty thieves in order to improve his craft. With a police inspector keeping an eye on him, Michel also tries to get a straight job, but the temptation to steal is hard to resist.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.852 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Akira Kurosawa
WRITERS: Akira Kurosawa, Yuriy Nagibin
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Asakazu Nakai, Fyodor Dobronravov, Yuri Gantman
STARRING: Maksim Munzuk, Yuri Solomin, Svetlana Danilchenko
GENRE: Adventure, Biopic, Drama
A military explorer meets and befriends a Goldi man in Russia’s unmapped forests. A deep and abiding bond evolves between the two men, one civilized in the usual sense, the other at home in the glacial Siberian woods.
Dersu Uzala seamlessly integrates Siberian landscapes, conveying the deep bond between the explorer and his guide. Based on Vladimir Arsenyev’s memoirs, Kurosawa’s film exhibits cultural sensitivity, precise direction, and a rich exploration of humanity in nature.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.859 / 100
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DIRECTOR: King Vidor
WRITERS: King Vidor, John V.A. Weaver
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Henry Sharp
STARRING: James Murray, Eleanor Boardman, Bert Roach, Estelle Clark
GENRE: Melodrama
John, an ambitious but undisciplined New York City office worker, meets and marries Mary. They start a family, struggle to cope with marital stress, financial setbacks, and tragedy, all while lost amid the anonymous, pitiless throngs of the big city.
The Crowd skillfully captures the complexities of 1920s urban life through innovative cinematography and nuanced storytelling. Vidor’s attention to detail and character depth create a compelling narrative, providing a snapshot of societal challenges and individual resilience
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.866 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Cassavetes
WRITERS: John Cassavetes
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Al Ruban
STARRING: Gena Rowlands, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazzara, Joan Blondell, Paul Stewart, Zohra Lampert
GENRE: Psychological Drama, New Hollywood
Actress Myrtle Gordon is a functioning alcoholic actress who is a few days from the opening night of her latest play, concerning a woman distraught about aging. One night a car kills one of Myrtle’s fans who is chasing her limousine in an attempt to get the star’s attention. Myrtle internalizes the accident and goes on a spiritual quest, but fails to finds the answers she is after. As opening night inches closer and closer, fragile Myrtle must find a way to make the show go on.
Opening Night captures the essence of theatricality with raw authenticity. Gena Rowlands delivers a tour de force performance, immersing viewers in the tumultuous world of stage production. A poignant exploration of aging and identity, it resonates long after the curtains close.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.896 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Woody Allen
WRITERS: Woody Allen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Carlo Di Palma
STARRING: Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, Dianne Wiest, Michael Caine, Woody Allen, Carrie Fisher, Lloyd Nolan, Maureen O’Sullivan, Daniel Stern, Max von Sydow
GENRE: Drama, Romantic Comedy
Between two Thanksgivings, Hannah’s husband falls in love with her sister Lee, while her hypochondriac ex-husband rekindles his relationship with her sister Holly.
Hannah and Her Sisters is a nuanced exploration of family dynamics, blending Woody Allen’s signature wit with poignant introspection. Its ensemble cast delivers performances that resonate, making it a timeless reflection on love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.902 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Denis Villeneuve
WRITERS: Eric Heisserer
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Bradford Young
STARRING: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Science Fiction, Alien Invasion
Taking place after alien crafts land around the world, an expert linguist is recruited by the military to determine whether they come in peace or are a threat.
Arrival captivates with its intellectually stimulating narrative, rooted in linguistics and theoretical physics. Villeneuve’s direction, alongside Adams’ compelling performance, crafts a cerebral, emotionally resonant sci-fi drama that challenges and engages audiences on a profound level.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.924 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Elia Kazan
WRITERS: Tennessee Williams, Oscar Saul
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Harry Stradling Sr.
STARRING: Marlon Brando, Vivien Leigh, Kim Hunter, Karl Malden, Rudy Bond
GENRE: Melodrama, Southern Gothic, Drama
Disturbed Blanche DuBois moves in with her sister in New Orleans and is tormented by her brutish brother-in-law while her reality crumbles around her.
A Streetcar Named Desire is a cinematic triumph, skillfully translating Tennessee Williams’ iconic play to the screen. Kazan’s direction and Brando’s groundbreaking performance elevate this Southern Gothic tale into a riveting exploration of desire, delusion, and societal decay.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.927 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Edgar Wright
WRITERS: Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg
CINEMATOGRAPHY: David M. Dunlap
STARRING: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis, Dylan Moran
GENRE: Zombie, Black Comedy, Parody, Horror Comedy, Comedy
Shaun lives a supremely uneventful life, which revolves around his girlfriend, his mother, and, above all, his local pub. This gentle routine is threatened when the dead return to life and make strenuous attempts to snack on ordinary Londoners.
Shaun of the Dead is a clever blend of horror and comedy, seamlessly marrying wit with the undead. Wright’s meticulous attention to detail, sharp writing, and the cast’s pitch-perfect performances elevate this rom-zom-com to a cult status, offering both laughs and genuine scares.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.930 / 100
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DIRECTOR: George A. Romero
WRITERS: George A. Romero
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Michael Gornick
STARRING: Ken Foree, David Emge, Scott H. Reiniger, Gaylen Ross, David Crawford
GENRE: Zombie, Splatter, Horror
During an ever-growing epidemic of zombies that have risen from the dead, two Philadelphia SWAT team members, a traffic reporter, and his television-executive girlfriend seek refuge in a secluded shopping mall.
Dawn of the Dead is a pioneering horror film, celebrated for its groundbreaking use of special effects and social commentary. George A. Romero’s vision of a zombie apocalypse remains a cultural touchstone, captivating audiences with its blend of gore and satire.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.933 / 100
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DIRECTORS: Buster Keaton, Edward Sedgwick
WRITERS: Clyde Bruckman, Richard Schayer, Lew Lipton
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Elgin Lessley, Reggie Lanning
STARRING: Buster Keaton, Marceline Day, Harold Goodwin, Sidney Bracey, Edward Brophy, Harry Gribbon
GENRE: Slapstick, Romantic Comedy
Luke Shannon, is a bumbling photographer who, in order to win the favor of a beautiful woman, takes a job as a newsreel cameraman.
The Cameraman shines as a timeless gem in silent cinema, celebrated for its seamless blend of comedy and heart. Keaton’s magnetic performance and groundbreaking camerawork elevate it to an enduring classic, cherished by cinephiles for its innovation and charm.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.964 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Hirokazu Kore-eda
WRITERS: Hirokazu Kore-eda
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Yutaka Yamazaki
STARRING: Hiroshi Abe, Yui Natsukawa, Yoshio Harada, Kirin Kiki, You
GENRE: Slice of Life, Family Drama, Drama
Twelve years after their beloved eldest son, Junpei, drowned while saving a stranger’s life, Kyohei and Toshiko welcome their surviving children home for a family reunion. Younger son Ryota still feels that his parents resent that he isn’t the one who died; his new wife, Yukari, is awkwardly meeting the rest of the family for the first time. Daughter Chinami strains to fill the uncomfortable pauses with forced cheer.
Still Walking delicately explores family dynamics with poignant subtlety, evoking profound emotions through its authentic portrayal of everyday life. Koreeda’s delicate touch and genuine perfomances create a deeply resonant cinematic experience, cherished by audiences and critics alike.
TOP10NER'S SCORE82.976 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Satyajit Ray
WRITERS: Satyajit Ray
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Subrata Mitra
STARRING: Kanu Banerjee, Karuna Banerjee, Pinaki Sengupta, Smaran Ghosal, Santi Gupta
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Drama, Parallel Cinema
The second chapter in director Satyajit Ray’s Apu Trilogy (‘Pather Panchali’, ‘Aparajito’, ‘The World of Apu’).
Following Apu and his family to the city, Ray explores the crowded streets and busy waterfront, introducing us to a gallery of unforgettable images and characters. But when tragedy strikes Apu’s family, the boy becomes a man and must choose between the life his father chose — a life of duty and disappointment — or a life of his own.
Aparajito, a pivotal installment in Ray’s ‘Apu Trilogy’, exhibits cautious storytelling and nuanced character development. The film expertly navigates the protagonist’s coming-of-age journey against a rich cultural backdrop, seamlessly blending visual poetry with social commentary.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.001 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Hal Ashby
WRITERS: Robert C. Jones, Jerzy Kosiński
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Caleb Deschanel
STARRING: Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, Melvyn Douglas, Jack Warden, Richard Dysart
GENRE: Satire, Drama, New Hollywood, Comedy, Absurdist Comedy
A simple-minded gardener named Chance has spent all his life in the Washington D.C. house of an old man. When the man dies, Chance is put out on the street with no knowledge of the world except what he has learned from television.
Being There delicately weaves satire and contemplation, showcasing Peter Sellers’ transcendent performance. Hal Ashby’s direction transforms Jerzy Kosiński’s novel into a thought-provoking exploration of identity, society, and the transformative power of simplicity.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.036 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Tony Kaye
WRITERS: David McKenna
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tony Kaye
STARRING: Edward Norton, Edward Furlong, Avery Brooks, Fairuza Balk, Beverly D’Angelo
GENRE: Drama
Derek Vineyard is paroled after serving 3 years in prison for killing two thugs who tried to break into/steal his truck. Through his brother, Danny Vineyard’s narration, we learn that before going to prison, Derek was a skinhead and the leader of a violent white supremacist gang that committed acts of racial crime throughout L.A. and his actions greatly influenced Danny. Reformed and fresh out of prison, Derek severs contact with the gang and becomes determined to keep Danny from going down the same violent path as he did.
American History X is an incisive exploration of racial tension, fueled by Norton’s powerhouse performance. Its nuanced portrayal of extremism and redemption, coupled with Kaye’s daring vision, cements its status as a culturally significant and enduring piece of cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.048 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Cristian Mungiu
WRITERS: Cristian Mungiu
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Oleg Mutu
STARRING: Anamaria Marinca, Laura Vasiliu, Vlad Ivanov, Alexandru Potocean
GENRE: Drama, Romanian New Wave
Two college roommates have 24 hours to make the ultimate choice as they finalize arrangements for a black market abortion.
4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days artfully navigates the complexities of a harrowing narrative set against the backdrop of Communist Romania. Meticulously researched and brilliantly executed, the film captivates with its unflinching realism and emotionally charged performances.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.049 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Alfred Hitchcock
WRITERS: Ben Hecht, Arthur Laurents, Patrick Hamilton, Hume Cronyn
CINEMATOGRAPHY: William V. Skall, Joseph A. Valentine
STARRING: John Dall, Farley Granger, James Stewart, Edith Evanson, Joan Chandler, Cedric Hardwicke, Constance Collier, Douglas Dick
GENRE: Crime, Psychological Thriller
Two men attempt to prove they committed the perfect crime by hosting a dinner party after strangling their former classmate to death.
Hitchcock’s Rope is a daring exploration of suspense and morality, showcasing innovative long takes and a captivating storyline. Its bold narrative experimentations and dynamic performances contribute to its enduring status as a classic of cinematic tension and intrigue.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.073 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Takeshi Kitano
WRITERS: Takeshi Kitano
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hideo Yamamoto
STARRING: Takeshi Kitano, Ren Osugi, Kayoko Kishimoto, Susumu Terajima
GENRE: Crime, Drama, Psychological Drama
A police officer leaves the force in the face of harrowing personal and professional difficulties. Spiraling into a depression, he makes questionable decisions.
Fireworks captivates with Kitano’s multifaceted brilliance as director, writer, and actor. Its emotionally charged narrative unfolds with a poetic intensity, while Kitano’s masterful use of visual motifs and storytelling nuances establishes an enduring work in contemporary cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.090 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wes Anderson
WRITERS: Owen Wilson, Wes Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert D. Yeoman
STARRING: Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Ben Stiller, Gwyneth Paltrow, Luke Wilson, Owen Wilson, Bill Murray, Danny Glover
GENRE: Drama, Comedy, Family Drama
Royal Tenenbaum and his wife Etheline had three children and then they separated. All three children are extraordinary — all geniuses. Virtually all memory of the brilliance of the young Tenenbaums was subsequently erased by two decades of betrayal, failure, and disaster. Most of this was generally considered to be their father’s fault. “The Royal Tenenbaums” is the story of the family’s sudden, unexpected reunion one recent winter.
The Royal Tenenbaums stands as a testament to Anderson’s unique visual style and narrative prowess. With a meticulously crafted ensemble cast and a deft blend of dark humor and poignant moments, the film unfolds as a captivating exploration of familial bonds.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.102 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Yasujirō Ozu
WRITERS: Yasujirō Ozu, Kōgo Noda
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Yûharu Atsuta
STARRING: Chishu Ryu, Shima Iwashita, Keiji Sada, Mariko Okada
GENRE: Drama, Family Drama, Shōshimin-eiga
Shuhei Hirayama is a widower with a 24-year-old daughter. Gradually, he comes to realize that she should not be obliged to look after him for the rest of his life, so he arranges a marriage for her.
An Autumn Afternoon stands as a poignant reflection on societal changes in post-war Japan. Through meticulous framing and subdued performances, Ozu crafts a bittersweet meditation on familial bonds and cultural shifts, cementing its status as a classic in Japanese cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.116 / 100
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DIRECTOR: François Truffaut
WRITERS: François Truffaut, Suzanne Schiffman, Jean-Louis Richard
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Pierre-William Glenn
STARRING: Jacqueline Bisset, Jean-Pierre Léaud, François Truffaut, Valentina Cortese, Nathalie Baye, Jean-Pierre Aumont, Dani, Jean Champion
GENRE: Comedy, Drama
A committed film director struggles to complete his movie while coping with a myriad of crises, personal and professional, among the cast and crew.
Day for Night stands as Truffaut’s captivating ode to filmmaking. Seamlessly blending humor and melancholy, it offers a nuanced exploration of the cinematic process, revealing the intricate layers that make the art of storytelling a captivating and authentic experience.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.122 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Mel Brooks
WRITERS: Gene Wilder, Mel Brooks
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gerald Hirschfeld
STARRING: Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, Madeline Kahn, Teri Garr, Cloris Leachman, Kenneth Mars
GENRE: Parody, Horror Comedy, Gothic, Comedy
A young neurosurgeon inherits the castle of his grandfather, the famous Dr. Victor von Frankenstein. In the castle he finds a funny hunchback, a pretty lab assistant and the elderly housekeeper. Young Frankenstein believes that the work of his grandfather was delusional, but when he discovers the book where the mad doctor described his reanimation experiment, he suddenly changes his mind.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.151 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Hal Ashby
WRITERS: Colin Higgins
CINEMATOGRAPHY: John A. Alonzo
STARRING: Bud Cort, Ruth Gordon, Vivian Pickles, Cyril Cusack
GENRE: Black Comedy, Romance, Coming-of-Age, New Hollywood, Drama
The young Harold lives in his own world of suicide-attempts and funeral visits to avoid the misery of his current family and home environment. Harold meets an 80-year-old woman named Maude who also lives in her own world yet one in which she is having the time of her life. When the two opposites meet they realize that their differences don’t matter and they become best friends and love each other.
Harold and Maude has been celebrated for its unconventional narrative, deftly blending dark humor with poignant moments. Ashby’s innovative use of music and Cat Stevens’ soundtrack enhance the film’s eccentric charm, contributing to its enduring cult status among cinephiles.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.196 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Andrzej Żuławski
WRITERS: Andrzej Żuławski, Frederic Tuten
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Bruno Nuytten
STARRING: Isabelle Adjani, Sam Neill, Heinz Bennent, Margit Carstensen
GENRE: Psychological Horror, Psychological Drama, Surrealism
A young woman left her family for an unspecified reason. The husband determines to find out the truth and starts following his wife. At first, he suspects that a man is involved. But gradually, he finds out more and more strange behaviors and bizarre incidents that indicate something more than a possessed love affair.
Possession masterfully intertwines psychological horror and political allegory, delivering a unique cinematic experience. Adjani’s mesmerizing performance and Zulawski’s visionary elevate this film into a haunting exploration of human relationships amidst societal turmoil.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.196 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Adam Elliot
WRITERS: Adam Elliot
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gerald Thompson
STARRING: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Toni Collette, Eric Bana, Barry Humphries
GENRE: Claymation, Drama, Black Comedy
A tale of friendship between two unlikely pen pals: Mary, a lonely, eight-year-old girl living in the suburbs of Melbourne, and Max, a forty-four-year old, severely obese man living in New York. In the mid-1970’s, a homely, friendless Australian girl of 8 picks a name out of a Manhattan phone book and writes to him; she includes a chocolate bar. He writes back, with chocolate. Thus begins a 20-year correspondence. Will the two ever meet face to face?
Mary and Max intricately captivates with its exploration of loneliness, deftly bridging continents through an unlikely friendship. Meticulously crafted, it profoundly delves into mental health and human connection, offering a compassionate and insightful portrayal rarely seen in cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.210 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Robert Hamer
WRITERS: John Dighton, Robert Hamer, Nancy Mitford
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Douglas Slocombe
STARRING: Alec Guinness, Dennis Price, Valerie Hobson, Joan Greenwood
GENRE: Black Comedy, Crime
When his mother eloped with an Italian opera singer, Louis Mazzini was cut off from her aristocratic family. After the family refuses to let her be buried in the family mausoleum, Louis avenges his mother’s death by attempting to murder every family member who stands between himself and the family fortune. But when he finds himself torn between his longtime love and the widow of one of his victims, his plans go awry.
Kind Hearts and Coronets stands as a remarkable achievement in British cinema, blending sharp wit with astute social commentary. Guinness’s virtuoso multiple-role performance and Hamer’s direction contribute to a timeless classic, showcasing a satirical exploration of class and morality.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.222 / 100
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DIRECTORS: Merian C. Cooper, Ernest B. Schoedsack
WRITERS: Leon Gordon, Merian C. Cooper, James Ashmore Creelman, Ruth Rose, Edgar Wallace
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Vernon L. Walker, Edward Linden, J.O. Taylor, Kenneth Peach
STARRING: Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, Bruce Cabot, Frank Reicher, Sam Hardy, Noble Johnson
GENRE: Giant Monster, Adventure, Natural Horror
A film crew discovers the “eighth wonder of the world,” a giant prehistoric ape, and brings him back to New York, where he wreaks havoc.
King Kong stands as a pioneering cinematic achievement, seamlessly blending groundbreaking special effects with captivating storytelling. Its enduring impact on the adventure genre and technical innovations make it an essential milestone in the history of filmmaking.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.234 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Akira Kurosawa
WRITERS: Akira Kurosawa, Hideo Oguni, Ryūzō Kikushima, Masato Ide
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Asakazu Nakai, Takao Saitō
STARRING: Toshiro Mifune, Yuzo Kayama, Reiko Dan, Tsutomu Yamazaki, Kyoko Kagawa, Miyuki Kuwano
GENRE: Jidaigeki
Aspiring to an easy job as personal physician to a wealthy family, Noboru Yasumoto is disappointed when his first post after medical school takes him to a small country clinic under the gruff doctor Red Beard. Yasumoto rebels in numerous ways, but Red Beard proves a wise and patient teacher. He gradually introduces his student to the unglamorous side of the profession, ultimately assigning him to care for a prostitute rescued from a local brothel.
Red Beard garners acclaim for its profound exploration of compassion and social injustice, brilliantly brought to life by Kurosawa’s expertise and Toshiro Mifune’s captivating performance. Its timeless themes resonate deeply, making it a quintessential classic of cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.242 / 100
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DIRECTOR: F. W. Murnau
WRITERS: Hans Kyser
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Carl Hoffmann
STARRING: Gösta Ekman, Emil Jannings, Camilla Horn, Werner Fuetterer, Frida Richard
GENRE: German Expressionism, Fantasy, Tragedy, Medieval, Gothic
God and Satan war over earth; to settle things, they wager on the soul of Faust, a learned and prayerful alchemist.
Faust captivates with its groundbreaking visual techniques, seamlessly blending expressionistic design and innovative special effects. Murnau’s meticulous attention to detail and Faustian narrative depth solidify its status as a pioneering achievement in early cinematic storytelling.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.281 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Brad Bird
WRITERS: Brad Bird, Ted Hughes, Tim McCanlies
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Steven Wilzbach
STARRING: Eli Marienthal, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., Vin Diesel, Christopher McDonald, John Mahoney
GENRE: Animation, Family, Science Fiction, Artificial Intelligence
In the small town of Rockwell, Maine in October 1957, a giant metal machine befriends a nine-year-old boy and ultimately finds its humanity by unselfishly saving people from their own fears and prejudices.
In The Iron Giant, Brad Bird crafts a heartwarming tale blending nostalgia, sci-fi, and a powerful anti-violence message. With stunning animation and a poignant story, it resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the power of friendship and empathy.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.294 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell
WRITERS: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jack Cardiff
STARRING: Deborah Kerr, David Farrar, Flora Robson, Kathleen Byron, Sabu, Jean Simmons, Esmond Knight
GENRE: Psychological Drama
A group of Anglican nuns, led by Sister Clodagh, are sent to a mountain in the Himalayas. The climate in the region is hostile and the nuns are housed in an odd old palace. They work to establish a school and a hospital, but slowly their focus shifts. Sister Ruth falls for a government worker, Mr. Dean, and begins to question her vow of celibacy. As Sister Ruth obsesses over Mr. Dean, Sister Clodagh becomes immersed in her own memories of love.
Black Narcissus showcases Powell & Pressburger’s innovative use of Technicolor and meticulous attention to detail. The film’s atmospheric cinematography and layered storytelling reflect a nuanced exploration of psychological complexities within a stunning Himalayan setting.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.309 / 100
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DIRECTOR: William Wyler
WRITERS: Dalton Trumbo, Ian McLellan, Hunter John Dighton
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Henri Alekan, Franz Planer
STARRING: Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, Eddie Albert, Hartley Power, Harlan Warde
GENRE: Romantic Comedy
Overwhelmed by her suffocating schedule, touring European princess Ann takes off for a night while in Rome. When a sedative she took from her doctor kicks in, however, she falls asleep on a park bench and is found by an American reporter, Joe Bradley, who takes her back to his apartment for safety. At work the next morning, Joe finds out Ann’s regal identity and bets his editor he can get exclusive interview with her, but romance soon gets in the way.
Roman Holiday captivates with its timeless charm and effervescent performances. Hepburn’s luminous debut as a princess on a quest for freedom, paired with Peck’s charismatic portrayal, crafts an enchanting narrative of love and adventure. A gem that sparkles with every frame.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.314 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Louis Malle
WRITERS: Louis Malle
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Renato Berta
STARRING: Gaspard Manesse, Raphael Fejtö, Francine Racette, Stanislas Carré de Malberg, Philippe Morier-Genoud, François Négret, François Berléand
GENRE: War, Drama, Coming-of-Age
Au revoir les enfants tells a heartbreaking story of friendship and devastating loss concerning two boys living in Nazi-occupied France. At a provincial Catholic boarding school, the precocious youths enjoy true camaraderie—until a secret is revealed. Based on events from writer-director Malle’s own childhood, the film is a subtle, precisely observed tale of courage, cowardice, and tragic awakening.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.335 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Richard Marquand
WRITERS: George Lucas, Lawrence Kasdan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Alan Hume, Alec Mills
STARRING: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Ian McDiarmid, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels, Kenny Baker, Peter Mayhew, James Earl Jones, Frank Oz
GENRE: Space Opera, Epic
Luke Skywalker leads a mission to rescue his friend Han Solo from the clutches of Jabba the Hutt, while the Emperor seeks to destroy the Rebellion once and for all with a second dreaded Death Star.
Return of the Jedi impeccably concludes the original Star Wars trilogy, seamlessly blending thrilling action with character development. Its groundbreaking special effects, compelling narrative arcs, and iconic musical score contribute to its enduring impact on the sci-fi genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.355 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Kim Ki-duk
WRITERS: Kim Ki-duk
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Baek Dong-hyeon
STARRING: Oh Yeong-soo, Kim Ki-duk, Kim Young-min, Seo Jae-kyeong, Kim Jong-ho
GENRE: Drama, Coming-of-Age
An isolated lake, where an old monk lives in a small floating temple. The monk has a young boy living with him, learning to become a monk. We watch as seasons and years pass by.
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter… and Spring artfully intertwines nature’s cycles with human emotions, evoking a serene yet profound reflection on life’s ever-changing essence. Visually captivating, emotionally resonant; a cinematic journey that leaves a lasting imprint on the soul.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.373 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Otto Preminger
WRITERS: Wendell Mayes
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sam Leavitt
STARRING: James Stewart, Lee Remick, Ben Gazzara, Arthur O’Connell, George C. Scott, Eve Arden
GENRE: Legal Drama, Crime
Semi-retired Michigan lawyer Paul Biegler takes the case of Army Lt. Manion, who murdered a local innkeeper after his wife claimed that he raped her. Over the course of an extensive trial, Biegler parries with District Attorney Lodwick and out-of-town prosecutor Claude Dancer to set his client free, but his case rests on the victim’s mysterious business partner, who’s hiding a dark secret.
Anatomy of a Murder has earned acclaim for its conscientious courtroom realism, bolstered by Preminger’s legal background. Stewart’s nuanced performance and Duke Ellington’s jazz-infused score contribute to the film’s enduring reputation as a benchmark in the legal drama genre.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.386 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Carl Theodor Dreyer
WRITERS: Carl Theodor Dreyer, Mogens Skot-Hansen, Poul Knudsen, Paul La Cour, Hans Wiers-Jenssen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Karl Andersson
STARRING: Thorkild Roose, Lisbeth Movin, Preben Lerdorff Rye, Sigrid Neiiendam, Anna Svierkier
GENRE: Period Drama
In a Danish village in the early 1600s, a young woman named Anne, whose mother was thought to be a witch, develops sympathy toward an old woman, Marte, who is accused of witchcraft. The intervention of Anne’s older but kindly husband, Pastor Absalon saved her mother – but now, urged on by his overbearing mother, he refuses to help Marte. When Absalon’s son returns home and is attracted to Anne, it’s a matter of time before her family destiny catches up with her.
A haunting exploration of morality in a time of fear and suspicion, Day of Wrath captivates with its atmospheric cinematography and nuanced performances. Its portrayal of the human psyche under oppression resonates deeply, offering both a historical lens and timeless relevance.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.417 / 100
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DIRECTOR: François Truffaut
WRITERS: François Truffaut, Jean Gruault, Henri-Pierre Roché
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Raoul Coutard
STARRING: Jeanne Moreau, Oskar Werner, Henri Serre, Vanna Urbino, Marie Dubois
GENRE: French New Wave, Drama, Romance
In the carefree days before World War I, introverted Austrian author Jules strikes up a friendship with the exuberant Frenchman Jim and both men fall for the impulsive and beautiful Catherine.
With its innovative narrative style and emotionally resonant performances, Jules and Jim is a timeless exploration of love, friendship, and the complexities of human relationships. Truffaut’s direction captures the essence of youthful exuberance and heartache
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.425 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Lars von Trier
WRITERS: Lars von Trier
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Anthony Dod Mantle
STARRING: Nicole Kidman, Paul Bettany, Harriet Andersson, Lauren Bacall
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Postmodernism, Drama
A barren soundstage is stylishly utilized to create a minimalist small-town setting in which a mysterious woman named Grace hides from the criminals who pursue her. The town is two-faced and offers to harbor Grace as long as she can make it worth their effort, so Grace works hard under the employ of various townspeople to win their favor. Tensions flare, however, and Grace’s status as a helpless outsider provokes vicious contempt and abuse from the citizens of Dogville.
Dogville has been lauded for its innovative narrative structure, minimalist set design, and audacious critique of societal norms. The film’s experimental approach, coupled with standout performances, provokes profound discussions on morality and power dynamics in cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.474 / 100
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DIRECTORS: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi
WRITERS: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi
STARRING: Chiara Mastroianni, Catherine Deneuve, Danielle Darrieux, Simon Abkarian, Gabrielle Lopes Benites, François Jerosme
STARRING (ENGLISH): Chiara Mastroianni, Catherine Deneuve, Gena Rowlands, Sean Penn, Amethyste Frezignac, Iggy Pop
GENRE: Biopic, Animation, Coming-of-Age
In 1970s Iran, Marjane ‘Marji’ Statrapi watches events through her young eyes and her idealistic family of a long dream being fulfilled of the hated Shah’s defeat in the Iranian Revolution of 1979. However as Marji grows up, she witnesses first hand how the new Iran, now ruled by Islamic fundamentalists, has become a repressive tyranny on its own.
A visually stunning journey through the tumultuous life of Marjane Satrapi, Persepolis blends poignant storytelling with striking animation. A triumph of artistry and emotion, it captivates and enlightens, leaving an indelible mark on viewers’ hearts and minds.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.477 / 100
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DIRECTOR: David Lynch
WRITERS: David Lynch
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Frederick Elmes, Herbert Cardwell
STARRING: Jack Nance, Charlotte Stewart, Allen Joseph, Jeanne Bates
GENRE: Surrealism, Psychological Horror, Body Horror, Experimental
Henry Spencer tries to survive his industrial environment, his angry girlfriend, and the unbearable screams of his newly born mutant child.
Eraserhead defies conventional storytelling, immersing audiences in a surreal and nightmarish world that lingers long after the credits roll. Lynch’s masterful direction and haunting imagery provoke thought and evoke a range of emotions, making it a landmark in avant-garde cinema.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.501 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Robert Altman
WRITERS: Leigh Brackett, Raymond Chandler
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Vilmos Zsigmond
STARRING: Elliott Gould, Sterling Hayden, Nina van Pallandt, Jim Bouton
GENRE: Neo-Noir, New Hollywood, Mystery, Crime, Satire
Detective Philip Marlowe tries to help a friend who is accused of murdering his wife.
The Long Goodbye seamlessly blends Chandler’s iconic detective with the 1970s LA counterculture, showcasing Altman’s innovative direction and Gould’s unconventional portrayal. Its revisionist take on the genre earned praise for its daring departure from traditional noir conventions.
TOP10NER'S SCORE83.505 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jacques Audiard
WRITERS: Jacques Audiard, Thomas Bidegain
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Stéphane Fontaine
STARRING: Tahar Rahim, Niels Arestrup, Adel Bencherif, Hichem Yacoubi, Reda Kateb
GENRE: Prison Film, Drama, Gangster Film, Crime
Sentenced to six years in prison, Malik El Djebena is alone in the world and can neither read nor write. On his arrival at the prison, he seems younger and more brittle than the others detained there. At once he falls under the sway of a group of Corsicans who enforce their rule in the prison. As the ‘missions’ go by, he toughens himself and wins the confidence of the Corsican group.
