Compilation of top 100 films
Consider the list below not as an indisputable standard, but more like a personal selection. It represents the biased and subjective choices of one critic – myself – who was tasked with ranking the 100 greatest films as they were perceived, then creating justifications afterward. Like many film enthusiasts, I already had a mental list of favorites, but I took this opportunity to start afresh, meticulously organizing and revising a spreadsheet over a couple of weeks, while adhering to three rules I set for myself.Firstly, I categorized my selections into 13 recognized genres, including comedy, romance, psychological drama, thriller, film noir, western, war, science fiction, horror, action, documentary, blockbuster, and musical. I also introduced five additional categories based on recurring themes: childhood, family life, journeys, specific times and places, and the essence of filmmaking. I decided to limit each director to one film entry. This rule notably eliminated some obvious choices, such as having both Vertigo and Psycho, 2001: A Space Odyssey and Barry Lyndon, or Groundhog Day and Caddyshack. However, I believe this exclusion enhanced the list’s quality by requiring a stronger justification for the presence of each renowned filmmaker’s work. No selection made it based on mere obligation.Furthermore, I did not impose any quotas or guidelines regarding the mix of highbrow and lowbrow, old and new, male and female perspectives, subtitled and English-language works, or silent and sound films. I initially assumed I might be less inclined to label recent releases as all-time classics compared to established masterpieces. Surprisingly, nearly a third of the films hail from either the 1980s, the decade of my birth, or the 2000s, when I embarked on my career as a critic.Is The Palm Beach Story truly superior to The Lady Eve? Perhaps a decade or mere minutes from now, the answer may change. Jump to specific categories: Best comedy films, Best horror films, Best action films, Best blockbuster films, Best thriller films, Best film noir films, Best science fiction films, Best musicals, Best romance films, Best psychological dramas, Best films about journeys, Films set in specific times and places, Best childhood films, Best family life films, Best western films, Best war films, Best documentary films, Films about filmmaking, Best comedy films: The Awful Truth (Leo McCarey, 1937): Cary Grant and Irene Dunne’s on-screen chemistry as a divorcing couple meddling in each other’s love lives is unbeatable. The Palm Beach Story (Preston Sturges, 1941): A riotous screwball comedy starring Joel McCrea and Claudette Colbert as a married couple exploring the delights of Florida. Bakumatsu Taiyô-den (Yuzo Kawashima, 1957): A humorous tale set in a 19th-century Japanese broth
Movies like Groundhog Day, Borat, You, the Living, Poor Things, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, The Thing, American Psycho, Pulse, A Touch of Zen, The 36th Chamber of Shaolin, Police Story, Point Break, and Mad Max: Fury Road offer a diverse range of experiences in genres such as supernatural comedy, horror, action, and blockbusters. Each film presents unique narratives and characters that captivate audiences with their creativity and innovation.
Explore the greatest sequels to classic films that changed the course of cinema history. From the oddball Oedipal comedy of “Back to the Future” to the groundbreaking animation of “Akira,” and the noir-tinted superhero tale of “Batman,” these films redefined genres and captivated audiences worldwide. Dive into the thrilling heist of “Rififi,” the fractured crime narrative of “Point Blank,” and the introspective gangland saga of “Carlito’s Way.” Experience the game-changing underworld mosaic of “Pulp Fiction” and the city-sized chessboard of “Heat.” Delve into the conspiracy of “The Big Sleep,” the postwar intrigue of “The Third Man,” and the tragic romance of “Vertigo.” Witness the sleazy corruption of “Touch of Evil” and the urban alienation of “Taxi Driver.” Embark on a cinematic journey from the dawn of man to beyond the infinite in “2001: A Space Odyssey,” immerse yourself in the neon-soaked future of “Blade Runner,” and confront the nightmarish possibilities of “Aliens.” These films are not just classics but towering achievements in storytelling and visual artistry that continue to inspire and amaze audiences to this day.
Finally, breaking free from its host like a chestburster bursting out with a triumphant screech is “Ghost in the Shell” (Mamoru Oshii, 1995). This chillingly melancholic Japanese animation perfectly embodies the cyberpunk genre, following a police cyborg as she hunts down a hacker infiltrating human souls. Dive deeper into our review of “Ghost in the Shell.”
“Under the Skin” (Jonathan Glazer, 2013) is an unparalleled exercise in gonzo existentialism, visually stunning with Scarlett Johansson as an alien seductress prowling the streets of Glasgow for unsuspecting male prey. Explore our review of “Under the Skin.”
Among the best musicals is “Singin’ in the Rain” (Gene Kelly & Stanley Donen, 1952), a timeless Hollywood fairy tale with heart-pounding dance sequences and irrepressible slapstick humor. Discover more in our review of “Singin’ in the Rain.”
In “A Star Is Born” (George Cukor, 1954), Judy Garland shines in the ultimate rendition of this classic showbiz romance, adding poignant depth to the film with her own life story.
“Les Demoiselles de Rochefort” (Jacques Demy, 1967) playfully nods to old Hollywood with Catherine Deneuve and Francoise Dorleac as twin sisters entangled in a colorful romantic farce. Read our review for more on this delightful film.
“Beauty and the Beast” (Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise, 1991) stands as a beacon of Disney’s late-20th-century Renaissance, capturing hearts with its magical storytelling and enchanting music.
Experience true love enduring all trials in “Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans” (FW Murnau, 1927), a mesmerizing silent film where a couple rekindles their romance in a dreamlike setting. Delve into our review of this cinematic gem.
In “Trouble in Paradise” (Ernst Lubitsch, 1932), Herbert Marshall and Miriam Hopkins sparkle as con artists turned lovers in this effervescent champagne of a film.
“Love & Basketball” (Gina Prince-Bythewood, 2000) follows two aspiring sports stars navigating professional ambitions and romantic feelings in this heartfelt Sundance hit.
“Tropical Malady” (Apichatpong Weerasethakul, 2004) explores love as a transformative power in a mesmerizing Thai tale where a soldier falls for a young man who becomes a mystical tiger spirit.
For riveting psychological dramas, delve into “Mildred Pierce” (Michael Curtiz, 1945) starring Joan Crawford as a determined single mother chasing the American Dream amidst melodramatic noir in LA.
“12 Angry Men” (Sidney Lumet, 1957) lays bare the raw intensity of twelve conflicting personalities in a tense, racially charged jury-room drama reflecting the
Stock PhotoPersona (Ingmar Bergman, 1966): In a remote coastal retreat, two women’s identities mysteriously blend in a deeply influential Jungian exploration that forever altered cinema’s course.
Morvern Callar (Lynne Ramsay, 2002): A blend of Balamory and Camus, featuring Samantha Morton as a Scottish woman who turns personal tragedy into opportunity.
Oppenheimer (Christopher Nolan, 2023): Nolan’s groundbreaking film shattered the traditional biopic mold, intertwining atomic physics, geopolitics, and the internal turmoil of a complex man.
Pinocchio (Ben Sharpsteen & Hamilton Luske, 1940): A visually stunning journey of self-discovery, Disney’s masterpiece from the Golden Age.
Ugetsu Monogatari (Kenji Mizoguchi, 1953): Two greedy peasants in Japan face tragedy and spirits in a mesmerizing tale of enchantment.
Alice (Jan Švankmajer, 1988): A surreal reinterpretation of Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland, set in a haunting dollhouse dreamscape.
American Honey (Andrea Arnold, 2016): A captivating road trip through the American heartland, blending reality and dreamlike exploration.
Top Gun: Maverick (Joseph Kosinski, 2022): A high-octane Tom Cruise film that delivers pure exhilaration on screen.
Umberto D. (Vittorio De Sica, 1952): An elderly Italian and his dog navigate post-war struggles in this neorealist classic.
Vagabond (Agnès Varda, 1985): A painterly portrayal of a female drifter’s harsh life in the south of France.
Do the Right Thing (Spike Lee, 1989): A gripping exploration of racial tensions on a scorching summer day in Brooklyn.
Lost in Translation (Sofia Coppola, 2003): Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson star in a jet-lagged masterpiece set in a foreign yet familiar world.
There Will Be Blood (Paul Thomas Anderson, 2007): A dark American myth of power and greed, featuring a remarkable performance from Daniel Day-Lewis.
Bambi (David Hand, 1942): A revolutionary animated tale of growth and emotion.
Mirror (Andrei Tarkovsky, 1975): A Russian exploration of life, history, memory, and poetry.
“Classic Films to Watch by Genre”
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (Steven Spielberg, 1982)
A timeless tale of childhood loneliness and wonderment that remains a definitive Spielbergian experience, essential for any cinema enthusiast.
“My Neighbor Totoro” (Hayao Miyazaki, 1988)
A beautifully animated ode to childhood magic, following two sisters as they befriend a mysterious forest spirit.
“Inside Out” (Pete Docter, 2015)
A whimsical exploration of growing up through the lens of human consciousness, brought to life with Pixar’s signature sharpness and insight.
“Late Spring” (Yasujirô Ozu, 1948)
A poignant portrayal of a woman’s devotion to her aging father, captured with lyrical precision akin to a sonnet.
“Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles” (Chantal Akerman, 1975)
A groundbreaking feminist film depicting the unraveling of a single mother’s regimented life, marked by subtle yet profound moments.
“The Ballad of Narayama” (Shôhei Imamura, 1983)
A gripping saga of an elderly woman preparing for ritual death in 19th century Japan, showcasing the harsh realities of wilderness life.
“Yi Yi” (Edward Yang, 2000)
A contemplative exploration of a Taipei family’s experiences over a year, capturing the nuances of life from weddings to funerals.
“The Royal Tenenbaums” (Wes Anderson, 2001)
A quirky family reunion orchestrated by a cunning patriarch, portrayed with Anderson’s trademark eccentricity and meticulous attention to detail.
“Stagecoach” (John Ford, 1939)
A classic western featuring John Wayne against the iconic backdrop of Monument Valley, solidifying Ford’s mastery of the genre.
“The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” (John Huston, 1948)
A dark tale of greed and morality as three men hunt for gold, brought to life by a talented trio of actors in a compelling narrative.
“The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (Sergio Leone, 1966)
A legendary spaghetti western starring Clint Eastwood, known for its gripping storytelling and iconic characters.
“McCabe & Mrs. Miller” (Robert Altman, 1971)
A gritty frontier saga centered on a business deal between Warren Beatty and Julie Christie, defying traditional western tropes with its realism.
“No Country for Old Men” (Joel & Ethan Coen, 2007)
A gripping noir thriller set in the Texas desert, featuring an unforgettable performance by Javier Bardem and sharp, dark humor.
“The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp” (Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger, 1943)
An epic film exploring personal and national identities amidst war, anchored by Roger Livesey’s poignant portrayal of a Boer War hero.
“I Am Cuba” (M
In this reimagined adaptation of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness set in Vietnam, the narrative plunges into a nightmarish portrayal of Hell on earth. Check out our review of Apocalypse NowFrancis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse NowGrave of the Fireflies (Isao Takahata, 1988)Follow two young siblings as they cling to life and each other amidst the aftermath of Kobe’s firebombing in this unforgettable animated masterpiece.Beau Travail (Claire Denis, 1999)Witness the French Foreign Legion transformed into a desert ballet in this mesmerizing film inspired by Herman Melville’s Billy Budd.Best documentariesMan with a Movie Camera (Dziga Vertov, 1929)Experience the electric rhythm of Soviet urban life in this iconic city symphony, pulsating with energy and visual brilliance.Edvard Munch (Peter Watkins, 1974)Explore the life of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch in this insightful film that delves into the essence of genius like no other.Welfare (Frederick Wiseman, 1975)Peek behind the curtain of the New York benefits system with a compassionate lens that unveils the humanity within the bureaucratic chaos.Grey Gardens (Albert & David Maysles, 1975)Follow a mother and daughter as they navigate their eccentric life in a decrepit mansion, blurring the lines between reality and surrealism.Harlan County, USA (Barbara Kopple, 1976)Witness a coal miners’ strike evolve into a poignant battle for a community’s spirit in this raw and unflinching documentary.Sans Soleil (Chris Marker, 1983)Embark on a poetic journey through various landscapes, weaving a contemplative tale on memory and time unlike any other.Shoah (Claude Lanzmann, 1985)Unravel the harrowing details of the Holocaust through firsthand accounts and location footage in this monumental and necessary documentary.Close-Up (Abbas Kiarostami, 1990)Dive into the enigmatic story of an imposter film director in this playful yet profound exploration of truth.Baraka (Ron Fricke, 1992)Experience breathtaking cinematography capturing Earth’s diverse landscapes in this awe-inspiring documentary.Los Angeles Plays Itself (Thom Andersen, 2004)Delve into a collage of classic film clips that paint a vivid portrait of the city that cinema built in this insightful documentary.Best films about filmSherlock Jr. (Buster Keaton, 1924)Experience the inventive silent comedy where a projectionist dreams himself into the screen, showcasing unbelievable stunts.Sunset Boulevard (Billy Wilder, 1950)Embark on a sardonic journey into the fading glamour of Hollywood with Gloria Swanson’s iconic portrayal of Norma Desmond.Le Mépris (Jean-Luc Godard, 1963)Explore a poignant New Wave drama where love, success, and art collide amidst a
Title: “Enigmatic Parisian Journey Unfolds in Narcotic Cine-Reverie: A Review of ‘Holy Motors'”
In an enchanting cinematic odyssey, ‘Holy Motors’ takes its audience on an all-night limousine ride through the streets of Paris, where reality blurs with the surreal in a mesmerizing tapestry of roles and identities. At the heart of this enigmatic journey is Denis Lavant, a chameleon-like actor who effortlessly transitions from one character to the next, embodying each with haunting precision akin to an assassin on a mission.
Directed by Leos Carax, ‘Holy Motors’ is a film that defies conventional storytelling, opting instead for a dreamlike narrative that challenges the boundaries of perception and identity. As Lavant’s character navigates the nocturnal landscape of Paris, each encounter becomes a piece of a larger puzzle, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of performance, existence, and the elusive essence of humanity.
The film’s intoxicating blend of fantasy and reality is underscored by Lavant’s transformative performances, which range from tender moments of vulnerability to explosive displays of raw emotion. His seamless transitions between disparate roles create a kaleidoscopic effect, drawing audiences deeper into the film’s surreal world and inviting them to question the boundaries between truth and illusion.
Carax’s direction is masterful in its ability to evoke a sense of disorientation and wonder, as the limousine becomes a vessel for Lavant’s shape-shifting adventures. Each new encounter within the confines of the car unfolds like a miniature film, complete with its own distinct tone, mood, and emotional resonance. The result is a cinematic experience that transcends traditional narrative constraints, inviting viewers to lose themselves in the film’s hypnotic spell.
As Lavant’s character moves through the night, encountering a diverse cast of characters and scenarios, ‘Holy Motors’ unfolds as a meditation on the nature of performance and the fleeting nature of identity. From a motion-capture artist to a grieving father, Lavant embodies each role with a haunting intensity that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, forcing audiences to confront the fragility of the self in a world of shifting perceptions.
In its exploration of the transformative power of cinema and the enigmatic nature of human experience, ‘Holy Motors’ challenges viewers to embrace the unknown and revel in the mysteries of existence. Carax’s visionary direction, paired with Lavant’s mesmerizing performances, creates a cinematic experience that is as perplexing as it is profound, inviting audiences to surrender to the film’s hypnotic allure and revel in its boundless creativity.
For those seeking an immersive and thought-provoking cinematic experience, ‘Holy Motors’ offers a glimpse into a world where reality and fantasy collide in a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. As Lavant’s character navigates the labyrinthine streets of Paris, each new role becomes a mirror reflecting the infinite possibilities of human existence, inviting viewers to journey into the unknown and embrace
