Choosing a movie to watch can be daunting. With so many genres and options available, it can be difficult to decide which ones you should put at the top of your watch-list. To help make the decision easier, here is a definitive list of must-see movies that you can’t miss. With well-known classics and modern favorites, there is something for everyone.
Classics From All Genres
The Godfather
This groundbreaking mafia classic from Francis Ford Coppola is widely considered to be one of the greatest films ever made. Marlon Brando’s iconic performance as the Don is powerful and captivating. He is joined by the likes of Robert De Niro, James Caan, and Al Pacino who bring a level of tension and emotion to the movie.
Gone With The Wind
This classic romantic drama has been mesmerizing audiences for over 80 years. Starring Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable, and Leslie Howard, the stellar cast portrays its equally impressive script. The captivating backdrop of the civil war and the passionate performances make this movie a classic.
It’s a Wonderful Life
This timeless holiday picture has been inspiring audiences for years. Starring James Stewart and Donna Reed, this heart-warming story follows the life of George Bailey. The themes of dancing around depression, rising above difficulties, and ultimately, finding joy in the small things, are the main foundation of this movie and make it the perfect film to watch during the chilly holidays.
Modern Favorites
The Social Network
The story of how Facebook was created was brought to the big screen with The Social Network. Jesse Eisenberg shines as the socially awkward but ambitious Facebook creator, Mark Zuckerberg. The amazing script allows for interesting, complex characters and shows how even something as seemingly simple as social networks, can be deeply layered and captivating.
Lord of The Rings Trilogy
This fantastic trio become the beloved classic that it is today due to a classic story, the expertise of Peter Jackson, and a fantastic cast. These three movies are filled with action, adventure and memorable characters and plot points. Among the fans are even those who despise the fantasy genre, as this trilogy is a cinematic accomplishment that anyone can appreciate.
Inception
This mind-bending thriller follows Leonardo DiCaprio as he dives into people’s dreams and steals their secrets. Inception’s unique plot, incredible cinematography, and a fantastic ensemble cast, allows for this movie to be unlike any other seen before.
Groundbreaking Directors
The Coen Brothers
The Coen brothers have a list of excellent films under their portfolios and three of them stand out as some of their best works: The Big Lebowski, Fargo, and No Country For Old Men. Whilst these three movies have some similar themes, they all have different storylines and styles so they can all be watched back to back without feeling like you’ve seen the movie three times.
Quentin Tarantino
The legendary director, writer and actor has created a distinct style of filmmaking that won’t be forgotten any time soon. His most famous movies are Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, and Kill Bill, all of which are incredibly provocative and entertaining. Across these three movies, he’s thrown in his trademark violence, dark humor, and attention to detail, creating a true cinematic experience.
David Fincher
The darkest of all dark directors, David Fincher has made some of the most memorable and thoughtful movies in the last few decades. Fight Club and Se7en are undeniable classics, but The Social Network is often the one that shows Fincher’s immaculate directing style. His ability to delve into the depths of difficult, intricate stories and still bring out the best of visuals and performances is unprecedented.
Recommended Viewing for Kids
The Land Before Time
The classic animated family adventure follows the journey of Littlefoot and his group of friends as they brave the treacherous journey to reach the lush valley. This light-hearted classic is filled with wonder, adventure and the power of friendship, making it the perfect movie night choice for kids.
Toy Story
Toy Story’s memorable characters have been delighting audiences for over 20 years. Under the helm of Pixar, this classic has some of the best voice acting in animated movies, combined with a story full of heart and humor. It’s no wonder that this movie has earned its place in almost everyone’s watch list.
Finding Nemo
This touching fish tale will have you at the edge of your seat. The movie follows the story of a father-son relationship between Marlin, a widowed clownfish, and his son Nemo. This lesson in friendship, loyalty, and unconditional love is a firm favorite among young and old, making it an essential watch for the kids.
Movies have a way of entertaining, inspiring, and making us laugh. With so many genres, styles, and stories being produced, it can become overwhelming to decide what to watch. This list of must-see movies is a comprehensive collection of absolute classics, modern favorites, and kid-friendly flicks that you can’t miss. Whether you’re a fan of powerhouses like the Godfather or the imaginative world of Toy Story, this list will have something for you.