So you have had my 100 worst films of all time so here are my 100 best films of all time. For my 100 worst list where I was scrounging around for films that I could put on the list because I don't watch all that many films I dislike. For this list I had the complete opposite problem in that I had so many films I love and whittling it down to just 100 at times felt impossible. I'll give you an idea of how hard it was, my initial list had 268 films on it. I had almost 300 more films than I needed to have and cutting 168 films was ridiculously hard. What makes it worse is that I know if I was to make this list again tomorrow it would be completely different. But anyway, enough about how hard my life is, lets get in to it. Here are, as of now, my 100 favourite films of all time.
100. ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ (2005)
Dir. Mike Newell
I couldn’t really do a top 100 films list without including at least one Harry Potter film. I feel like it is a series where everyone has a different favourite and this one happens to be mine. It has some great action set pieces with good performances and visuals, and you also get a Jarvis Cocker cameo which is never a bad thing. It is also the first appearance of Ralph Fiennes Voldemort so what’s not to like?
99. ‘Breathless’ (1960)
Dir. Jean Luc Goddard
Two films in and we are already in film studies territory. This film is almost required viewing for cinephiles and with good reason. Despite being a film that prides itself on breaking filmic rules and conventions, both technically and narratively, it remains a brilliant watch. It also happens to be French and I could listen to that language all day.
98: ‘Dr Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb’ (1964)
Dir. Stanley Kubrick
The first Stanley Kubrick film that makes this list but definitely not the last. This film is a superb satire of Cold War fears of a nuclear war between the United States and Russia, being at once smart and silly and combining the two comedic styles to brilliant effect. It is helped hugely by Peter Sellers who is fantastic in all three roles he plays in the film, his comedic timing and line delivery is just spot on.
97: ‘Black Narcissus’ (1947)
Dir. Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
This is a film that is sold completely on its visuals. Almost every frame sticks in your mind as a visual treat. The narrative is a solid one which keeps you invested, but it isn’t what you come away from the film thinking about. Also, if you’re not a fan of the ‘what does this colour represent’ kind of thing you might want to skip this film, the use of red in it might give you a hernia.
96: ‘Before Sunrise’ (1995)
Dir. Richard Linklater
I am yet to see the latter two films in the series so if they are better than this one I apologise. But if that is the case I am in for a treat. This is such a simple film narratively, all we see is our characters in Vienna, walking, talking and falling in love. But the film is so well written and the chemistry between Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy is so believable that you just get enthralled. It is a beautiful film and apparently both sequels are equally as beautiful.
95: ‘Mulholland Drive’ (2001)
Dir. David Lynch
Anybody any clue what this film is about? Yeah, me neither but it doesn’t matter. The film has this intriguing mystery to it that completely sucks you in and the world it creates seems at once beautiful and horrific. The fact the film is so bizarre and almost non-sensical is what makes it so rewatchable. Every time you think you are going to work out what it’s all about, but it always slips away. Just typing this up makes me want to go back to try and work it out.
94: ‘The Full Monty’ (1997)
Dir. Peter Cattaneo
Despite being from the other side of the Pennines to where this film is set it is still nice to hear northern accents on film. It also helps that those northern accents are in a film with wit, charm and emotion to back it up. The ‘Full Monty’ may look like a standard comedy but it follows in the tradition of the British New Wave of the 1960s which give it a more political undertone. It just also happens to be a right good laugh.
93: ‘This is England’ (2006)
Dir. Shane Meadows
Another film about the British working class but not sure you could have a bigger tone shift from ‘The Full Monty’. This film has comedic moments, but it is mostly a gritty and often upsetting film to watch, made more difficult by the almost documentary style the film takes on. The film is expertly performed and was my first introduction to Stephen Graham who is one of the best actors working today. It is a difficult watch but my god is it engaging and moving.
92: ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)
Dir. Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
As a History and Film graduate this film is right up my street being a musical about the transition from silent films to ‘talkies’. The subject matter on its own has me hooked, but it is also a superbly witty, fun and brilliantly performed film. The pinnacle is the ‘Make Them Laugh’ scene which is one of the best moments of physical comedy in film history. Oh and I guess the songs are all pretty great too.
91: ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ (1971)
Dir. Mel Stuart
This is one of the films that I watched a hell of a lot as a child and for good reason. This is a film which is very odd ball but has such much charm to go along with it. Just the imagination and creativity that has gone into this film is incredible and Gene Wilder is the perfect Wonka. Also love that boat scene even though what the fuck is that.
90: ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ (1974)
Dir. Tobe Hooper
This film is dirty and that is what makes it so good. I had heard so many horrible things about this film before watching it and although it is somewhat horrific a lot of what you think is horrifying in this film is in your mind, especially in the guts and gore department, and it is this brilliant filmmaking that makes this a classic horror film. The whole series after this is a shit show, but my god what a start.
89: ‘Kill Bill: Vol.1’ (2003)
Dir. Quentin Tarantino
This film is just so much fun. I know that Tarantino is a hot and cold director with many people thinking he is needlessly violent in his films, but when the violence is as fun to watch in this film then I could not give less of a shit. If you are not sure you agree with me re-watch ‘The House of Blue Leaves’ scene and tell me that it isn’t bloody spectacular. You can’t.
88: ‘A Few Good Men’ (1992)
Dir. Rob Reiner
A can’t say I am a huge courtroom drama fan but there is something about this film that just hooks me. It is pretty expertly directed, coming during Rob Reiner’s golden period where he seemingly couldn’t do any wrong. It is also filled with a fantastic cast putting in superb performances. Kevin Bacon and Tom Cruise are notable but its Jack Nicholson who really steals the show. Don’t believe me? Well, ‘You can’t handle the truth!’ (That was fucking embarrassing but I’m leaving it in as evidence that I am properly unfunny.)
87: ‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’ (2004)
Dir. Adam McKay
When Will Ferrell is on form he is great and this is him at his dazzling best. The best thing I can say about this film is when looking at reviews for it on Letterbox’d half of them are just people quoting there favourite scene, and all of them are different showing just how quotable and funny this film is. So, I think I’ll join them.
“They’ve done studies you know. Sixty percent of the time it works every time”
“That doesn’t make sense”
86: ‘Say Anything’ (1989)
Dir. Cameron Crowe
I didn’t expect all that much from this film going in. I especially didn’t expect that it would become one of my favourite films. If you don’t know it you at least know the ‘boombox’ scene which has become fully embedded in pop culture but don’t think that that is all this film has to offer. It is brilliantly written with superb characters and a central romance that is bloody relatable. I really need to watch this again, bloody hell its good.
85: ‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)
Dir. Rob Reiner
We’re only 16 films in and we are already on to our second Rob Reiner film, but what can I say he has some absolute classics. This film is definitely in his top tier. It just has everything you want from your film; adventure, action, romance, comedy, wit, charm, the shazam. On top of that it is one of the most quotable films ever made. Another Rob Reiner masterclass. Speaking of Rob Reiner…
84: ‘Stand By Me’ (1986)
Dir. Rob Reiner
I told you Rob Reiner had an incredible streak of films. This is one of two films he directed based on Stephen King properties, but this is the best of them. It just has such an emotional kick to it. It is really simple with the narrative being four young boys going on an adventure to find a dead body but it’s the relationships between them and how they change and grow through the film that make it so impactful. I don’t think have ever watched a film where someone who was watching it with me had to step out the room for a bit when it had finished to collect themselves (you know who you are) but it just shows how powerful it is.
83: ‘The Exorcist’ (1973)
Dir. William Friedkin
This film was actually quite disappointing first time around as I had heard it was the most terrifying film ever made and yet it didn’t affect me that much. Repeat viewings really did allow this film to grow on me more and there is so much here apart from the horror. The best aspect of this film is not the actual possession of the girl but how Father Karras is fighting against his crumbling belief in the church. It gives the film so much more dimension than your standard horror. Oh and the girls head turns 180 degrees so that’s cool as well.
82: ‘The Goonies’ (1985)
Dir. Richard Donner
One of the greatest adventure films ever made. This film just makes me smile whenever I watch it. From start to finish it is just full of charm which is helped by a brilliant cast of kids who all put in great performances. It is so much fun and a film that I can throw on at anytime of day or night and in any mood and still enjoy. That Cyndi Lauper theme is also an absolute banger.
81: ‘La La Land’ (2016)
Dir. Damian Chazelle
Talk about a film that grew on me. This film was so hyped up that I was slightly disappointed when I first watched it but my god have I bought into the hype now. This film is just magical. The use of colours and almost old school style the film goes for is right up my street, mixed with great songs and two brilliant central performances and you have a musical I’m going to be coming back to again and again and again.
80: ‘The Prince of Egypt’ (1998)
Dir. Brenda Chapman, Simon Wells, Steve Hickner
This film is criminally underrated. Seriously if you haven’t seen it do yourself a favour. It is a superb achievement of animation being stunning throughout with some truly breath-taking visuals. It also has a great cast with so many star names putting in superb performances. On top of this the story is an incredible one regardless of your religious beliefs, and the film also has some of the best music in animated film history. Hugely underrated.
79: ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)
Dir. Quentin Tarantino
This film is so simple and in the hands of another director may not have been as brilliant as Tarantino made it. The script is one of Tarantino’s best, with the scene in the diner just being a delight of dialogue. It isn’t a film for everyone (as my mum will attest to) but it is right up my ally and I bloody love it. It also may be the best soundtrack of any Tarantino film (don’t hold me to that.)
78: ‘Halloween’ (1978)
Dir. John Carpenter
This is one of the films I sought out as a 13-year-old first stepping into the world of horror films and although I never have found it particularly scary it is damn tense and is really entertaining. It is a great mix of slasher films and classic horror which merges into a brilliantly entertaining ride. It also happens to be brilliantly directed with some of the most memorable shots in horror history.
77: ‘Play It Again, Sam’ (1972)
Dir. Herbert Ross
This is a weird film, but it works. It has all the hallmarks of your classic Woody Allen romance film but with the added gimmick that Allen’s character speaks to an imaginary Humphrey Bogart from ‘Casablanca’ for romantic advice. Yes, really. It is odd but it works so well, and the way the film mirrors the story and certain scenes from ‘Casablanca’ is great. A ton of fun with a bizarre premise that really works.
76: ‘M’ (1932)
Dir. Fritz Lang
Germany, or more specifically German expressionism, makes its first appearance on this list. The German expressionism movement and style has produced some incredible films and filmmakers and this film is one of the best. The narrative of the film is fantastic, but it is truly the style with the use of light and shadow being particularly impressive in this film. This film is a genuine classic of cinema and if you are looking to step into German expressionism you could do much worse than starting with this film.
75: ‘Grease’ (1978)
Dir. Randal Kleiser
What can I really say about ‘Grease’? Everyone knows about this film and you never whether you love it or hate, my opinion on it won’t change your mind. And I do love it. Of course, all the songs are great, which you want them to be in a musical, but the whole style of the film is what sells me. That whole 1950’s America aesthetic is one that I genuinely love and so this film ticks that box straight away. It is also just a joyous musical. It is a ton of fun and has the power to put a smile on my face every time.
74: ‘Blazing Saddles’ (1974)
Dir. Mel Brooks
This film is so god damn funny and I don’t think enough people have seen it (at least not enough people I know). It is brilliant satirical of the Western genre but also has huge spoof elements to it which is a style of comedy that I really enjoy, and it executes them brilliantly. I remember watching it on repeat for weeks after I first saw it and it remained just as funny each and every time.
73: ‘Akira’ (1988)
Dir. Katsuhiro Otomo
One of the pinnacles of Anime cinema and with good reason. The film’s visual style is incredible with it use of colour and scale being genuinely break-taking at times. It is also one of the most action-packed films you will see, animated or otherwise, and all the action scenes are incredibly intense and exciting. It is not the last anime film that makes this list, but easily the most intense, both visually and action wise.
72: ‘Manchester by the Sea’ (2016)
Dir. Kenneth Lonergan
This film fucking crushed me. I had absolutely no idea what the film was about going in and every new emotional revelation that came felt like a kick in the gut each time. This means that it does not make exactly the most fun film to watch but it is also brilliantly directed and acted, and hugely emotional gripping and it is a film that sticks with you long after it finishes. Not one for repeat viewing but a film that is as emotionally rewarding as it is devastating.
71: ‘Seven Samurai’ (1954)
Dir. Akira Kurosawa
When people think of Japanese films this is one of the first ones that will pop into their heads. The film is so influential not just on Japanese cinema but on Western films and you can see why. It is completely engaging from start to finish both narratively and visually with Kurosawa giving a directing masterclass. The action in the film is top level and the acting throughout is stellar, with Toshiro Mifune and Takashi Shimura being the stand outs. Many consider this to be Kurosawa’s masterpiece, we’ll find out soon enough that I disagree.
70: ‘Hereditary’ (2018)
Dir. Ari Aster
This is easily the best horror film I have seen in years. It had been a long time since I had seen a horror film in the cinema that had me so tense and gripping onto my chair like the finale of this film did. But many of the more horrific moments in this film are actually in its portrayal of the central family and their deteriorating relationships. Toni Collete is absolutely superb in this film and absolutely holds you every time she is on screen. Ari Aster is one of the most exciting directors in horror right now and with this as your debut it is no surprise why.
69: ‘House of Flying Daggers’ (2004)
Dir. Zhang Yimou
This film is one of the most visually stunning films you will ever watch. There are so many scenes that are just pure visual treats. The action is also superb with some of the best cinematography you will ever see. The best scene in the film is a fantastic mix of both the action and visuals with our heroes fighting against a battalion o guards in a bamboo forest. This is one of the most visually brilliant scenes I have ever seen and if you can watch this film and not be impressed by it I don’t know what’s wrong with you.
68: ‘The Breakfast Club’ (1985)
Dir. John Hughes
A true 80’s teen classic which has had a huge impact on pop culture, and it isn’t hard to see why. It’s not a complex narrative with the film just being about 5 kids in detention talking and getting to know each other, but the characters are so all well realised and constructed in a way that they are completely engaging and you want to learn more about them as the other characters do. It is so brilliantly engaging and relatable and a film that I will be coming back to for years.
67: ‘Predator’ (1987)
Dir. John McTiernan
In the sub-genre of uber-macho 80s action films this one is the king. It has everything you want from a film like this. It is hyper masculine so much so that it often feels a parody of itself, fantastic action scenes, and cheesy one lines, god its good. Inject it into my veins. This film is a step above other films like it however because of the Predator alien who has become a classic film monster. It is brilliant designed as a creature and really takes the film to another level.
66: ‘Nosferatu’ (1922)
Dir. F. W. Murnau
We’re back to Germany for another expressionist classic and the first silent film to make this list. This is one of the films that is a film studies dream, but it just also happens to be superb. Again, it is the visuals that make it, with the use of shadows being masterful in creating an atmosphere of fear from beginning to end. It is also a adaptation of the ‘Dracula’ story so narratively it is an extremely solid outing too. Silent films ar definitely not for everyone but if you are willing to give them a try this one is top tier.
65: ‘Pulse’ (2001)
Dir. Kiyoshi Kurosawa
Japanese horror films have a certain atmosphere to them that I just absolutely love. They don’t go for jump scares or classic Hollywood horror conventions instead choosing to go for much more subtle underlying atmospheric horror which is really effective. This film may be the pick of the bunch o the ones I have seen with it having the most engaging visual style and a narrative that is more relatable with it being about the horrors of the internet and isolation. I would recommend this film to all horror fans regardless if you like foreign language films or not it is that good.
64: ‘West Side Story’ (1961)
Dir. Jerome Robbins, Robert Wise
I managed to avoid this film for the longest time, and I am a worse person because of it. When I did finally see it I couldn’t quite believe how much I recognised from it, especially from the soundtrack. This is right at the very top of the musical genre with almost every element being superb. It looks incredible, the dance choreography is brilliant and performed spectacularly, the music is all superb and the narrative is completely engaging. Having not watched this many years after I should have I am now almost making up for lost time and think this may become a yearly re-watch.
63: ‘Suspiria’ (1977)
Dir. Dario Argento
Talk about a visual treat. This film is one where every frame looks brilliant. The narrative may not be the strongest, but it almost doesn’t matter because it feels like the only reason a narrative exists is to facilitate the films spectacular imagery. The use of lighting in the film is fantastic and the set design is some of the best I have ever seen. It’s a film I enjoyed so much that I watched almost immediately again after seeing first time, which is something I don’t do very often anymore.
62: ‘Blue Velvet’ (1986)
Dir. David Lynch
Compared to ‘Mulholland Drive’ this film feels positively straightforward but of course, being a David Lynch film, it really isn’t that simple. The film is not an easy watch, a lot of the time it can actually be quite upsetting. But it is such a brilliant portrayal of the dark underbelly of seemingly perfect towns that you can’t helped but get sucked in. Dennis Hopper is also at his best here as a complete psychopath who is one the scariest characters in film history.
61: ‘Star Wars: Episode 6 – Return of the Jedi’ (1983)
Dir. Richard Marquand
Yes the special edition of this film has the worst scene in ‘Star Wars’ history (that fucking band scene on Jabba’s barge) but my love for the series means I am happy to look past it. The film is probably not as good as many of the films I have already mentioned but my nostalgia does get the better me of sometimes. Also, the film does have some genuinely fantastic moments. The opening act in Jabba’s palace is great and the final confrontation between Luke and Vader is brilliant. The weakest of the original trilogy (spoilers) but I still love it all the same.
60: ‘The Thing’ (1982)
Dir. John Carpenter
I have no idea why this film was so poorly received upon its initial release because it is undoubtedly superb. The creature effects on their own are enough for the film to be given praise as they are incredibly done. They look horrific and disgusting in the best kind of way and they still mostly hold up to this day. Mix these brilliant effects with a great narrative that explores isolation and paranoia and you have a brilliant film on your hands.
59: ‘Mulan’ (1998)
Dir. Tony Bancroft, Barry Cook
Hello Disney, nice of you to make an appearance. This film is one the studios finest and I won’t hear anything else on the matter. Mulan herself is a brilliant lead character and she is surrounded by equally memorable and fun side characters. Mixed with a great story, brilliant visuals and some of Disney’s greatest songs and we have a film that I can see myself re-watching ‘til the day I die.
58: ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ (1984)
Dir. Wes Craven
Slasher films are an acquired taste on the whole, but here is one that seems to have transcended into being widely considered as a classic. Some of the special effects in the film haven’t aged all that well but they remain charming and are offset by the special effects that have held up incredibly well. The real reason this film is so enjoyable however is because of Freddy Krueger who is just an iconic horror villain played superbly by Robert Englund. He is the reason the series lasted so long and why people return to this film time and time again.
57: ‘Trainspotting’ (1996)
Dir. Danny Boyle
Never has heroin use but such an entertaining thing to watch. Of course, with a subject matter like that, there are also some disturbing and upsetting moments in the film but it also happens to be completely engaging and fun. You want to spend time with these characters despite all their shortcomings and they are all performed brilliant by everyone involved. The sequel is also a pretty good film, although not a patch on the original.
56: ‘Late Spring’ (1949)
Dir. Yasujiro Ozu
‘Tokyo Story’ may be widely considered as Ozu’s masterpiece, but I think that nothing beats ‘Late Spring’. The film is a beautifully exploration of a relationship between a father and his daughter and the difficulty both have of letting go of one another. It takes its time in showing the relationship between the two and is a slow film, but you become so engaged with the story and characters that it doesn’t matter. It is visual beautiful as well las narratively and has great performances to go alongside. ‘Tokyo Story’ is a great film, but nothing by Ozu tops this one for me.
55: ‘The Big Lebowski’ (1998)
Dir. Joel Cohen, Ethan Cohen
This film has become a true cult classic and it is clear to see why. It is a really smart and funny crime comedy following the conventions of a character being thrown into a world he doesn’t belong in through no fault of his own. It is a classic narrative convention in comedy and works to perfection here. The film is incredibly quotable and there are so many visuals that stick in your head long after it has finished. I am also partial to a White Russian and so I relate to the Dude strongly on that level.
54: ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ (2000)
Dir. Ang Lee
This film may not be as visual impressive a ‘House of Flying Daggers’ but it is a step above in almost all other aspects. That is not to say that the film isn’t visually very impressive because it really is and it has some truly stand out moments in the visual department. Narratively it is extremely compelling and the choreography throughout is superb. The performances are all wonderful and the direction is top notch. This isn’t the last time Ang Lee appears on this list and there is a very good reason for it.
53: ‘Your Name’ (2016)
Dir. Makoto Shinkai
When a film is hyped up before I watch it I usually find myself a little disappointed that my loft expectations aren’t met. This film managed to exceed these expectations and then some. Are brilliantly constructed romance with a brilliant premise that has you engaged and rooting for these characters from the off. It also has some truly beautiful visual moments throughout as well as having a real emotional kick to it. It was an absolute phenomenon in Japan and for a very good reason, it is a wonderful film.
52: ‘Taxi Driver’ (1976)
Dir. Martin Scorsese
I may be pissing some people off by only having on Scorsese film in my top 100, one of those people being me. He is a brilliant director with so many great films and not having more on this list odes seem somewhat sacrilegious. If I was going to have one though it was always going to be this one. I’d happily put this in for that main saxophone theme alone, but it helps that the film is pretty brilliant as well.
51: ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)
Dir. Christopher Nolan
This may not seem like a controversial placement yet but keep reading and you’ll see why it is. Watching this recently just reminded me of how good it is. The direction is superb from Nolan, and the way he shoots action scenes is brilliantly visceral. Christian Bale is great as Batman and the whole supporting cast are brilliant. And of course, Heath Ledger is breath-taking as the Joker and is one of the main reasons this film is as good as it is. It isn’t the last time either of these actors will appear on this list though…
50: ‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)
Dir. Quentin Tarantino
The last time Tarantino is turning up on this list and it is unsurprising that this is the film that gets the highest. It is Tarantino at his best. The script is superb, the direction is brilliant, and the film is superbly entertaining. Again it isn’t a film for everyone but it is a right good time and up there as one of the best for me.
49: ‘Sunset Boulevard’ (1950)
Dir. Billy Wilder
A bit like ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ this film focuses in on the Golden Age of Hollywood and I am all there for it. The narrative is so completely engaging. Watching a former silent movie star struggle to come to terms with the fact she is no longer famous is engrossing and it is written and performed brilliantly. The direction by Wilder is also brilliant, and the set design and costumes are stunning. It is a film that isn’t talked about enough.
48: ‘Metropolis’ (1927)
Dir. Fritz Lang
The greatest silent film of all time. With silent films you are relying on the visuals to keep you engaged and this film is one of the greatest visual films of all time. Again following in the German expressionism style, the use of light and shadow is incredible, but the sets and models that were created for this film are also spectacular. The Metropolis of the film is so well designed that you can just see one image of it and recognise it immediately. It maybe properly long, but you almost forget it is because it is that good.
47: ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)
Dir. Christopher Nolan
Now you see why I said that my placing of ‘The Dark Knight’ was controversial. I prefer ‘Batman Begins’ mostly because I prefer the overall narrative. I think it is a much more well rounded narratively than its sequel. The direction is still superb, and the action is great, but it is Christian Bale’s performance as both Batman and Bruce Wayne that hooks me. Yes, I am in the minority that prefer this to ‘The Dark Knight’ and I am probably wrong, sue me.
46: ‘Parasite’ (2019)
Dir. Bong Joon-ho
Recency bias may have some impact on the placement on this film, but it is just that good. Just everything about it works. The script is brilliant being both compelling and funny, all the actors do their jobs brilliantly and the direction is masterful. And when the twist comes the film just takes on a completely different dimension and it just keeps getting better and better. It isn’t often that the Oscars get the Best Picture right, but they absolutely did when this one won, no question.
45: ‘The Godfather’ (1972)
Dir. Francis Ford Coppola
A lot of people will try to tell you that this film’s sequel is the better film. These people are wrong. There is a reason that many people consider this to be one of the greatest films of all time and its because it is brilliant on every level. Narratively and visually it is completely engaging, and the direction and performances are incredible, which is unsurprising when looking at the cast. There is very little else I can say about it, its as good as everyone says it is.
44: ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ (1975)
Dir. Milos Forman
Talking of a great cast, this one is absolutely stellar, and each actor is on top form and it is truly a film that is built on its performances. Jack Nicholson is at a career best I this film (even if its not the best film he is in). He is completely faultless in my opinion and you can’t take your eyes the entire time. The film also happens to be an emotional powerhouse and there is a very good chance you will cry more than once throughout its runtime.
43: ‘Casablanca’ (1942)
Dir. Michael Curtiz
What can be said about this film that hasn’t already been said? Everyone knows it, everyone loves it. It is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, love triangle in cinema history and has one of the greatest ever endings. The standout moment however is where the Nazi soldiers are drowned out by the people in the bar singing ‘La Marseilles’. It is a truly moving moment is a beautiful film that every single person needs to watch.
42: ‘Brief Encounter’ (1945)
Dir. David Lean
This film is as beautiful as it is heart-breaking. Watching two married strangers meeting, falling in love and agreeing to each go their own way is truly moving and emotionally stirring. The performances of our two characters are so good and their chemistry is so real that as they fall in love you almost fall in love with them, which makes the moment they decide to part feel personal and make it all the more devastating. The film is truly beautiful, and I love it.
41: ‘Paths of Glory’ (1957)
Dir. Stanley Kubrick
This is the best Kubrick film that no one ever talks about. People who do talk about it see it as Kubrick’s first masterpiece and I would have to agree. It is simply stunning. Yes, the performances and narrative are both great, but as with a lot of Kubrick films it is the visuals that are the true selling point of the film and this one is no different. The way the camera travels down the trenches in the film makes you feel like you are there in the frontline and it is incredible to experience.
40: ‘Princess Mononoke’ (1997)
Dir. Hayao Miyazaki
The first Ghibli film to make this list but definitely not the last. This film is one of Ghibli’s greats and with good reason. It feels as much an epic fantasy as any other film in that genre but also has a clear message behind it about urbanisation and the destruction of nature. Add to this some brilliant characters, fantastic animation and great action set pieces and it is clear why this is one of Ghibli’s best.
39: ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (1991)
Dir. Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
Disney’s greatest ever film. An absolute triumph of animation both on a visual and narrative level, it is clear to see why this was the first animated film to be nominated for best picture. There are some moments in this film that are truly stunning visually and up there with any visual moment in film history. The film also has great characters, great voice performances and brilliant songs (as most Disney films do) but it is levels above anything else Disney have done. Also Gaston is my spirit animal.
38: ‘Psycho’ (1960)
Dir. Alfred Hitchcock
The most famous film from one of the worlds most famous filmmakers. ‘Psycho’ is an incredible film which boke and subverted so many horror conventions and opened the door for horror films going forward. I saw this film having had almost every moment ruined for me by my mother (cheers mum) and yet it is so well made, so gripping and so tense that it did not matter. I still loved every moment of it. A true masterpiece by the Master of Suspense.
37: ‘Rear Window’ (1954)
Dir. Alfred Hitchcock
You wait all this time for one Hitchcock film, and you get two in a row! ‘Rear Window’ is, for me, Hitchcock’s greatest. It is the most suspenseful of his films, even on re-watch, and every time you watch it there is something new for you to discover I’m this neighbourhood the film creates. It also has a superb central performance from James Stewart which pushes the film to another level.
36: ‘Only Yesterday’ (1991)
Dir. Isao Takahata
Talk about a turnaround of opinion. When I first watched this film, I enjoyed it but didn’t think it was great. Second time around I loved it so much that it jumped to 34th in my all-time favourites list. It is just such a beautiful film. The narrative is truly engaging and has some wonderful moments of pure joy as well as some quite shocking moments, but visually it is brilliantly done with the film changing animation styles between the modern day and her memories. It is a simple technique really, but it works so well and is magically done.
35: ‘Alien’ (1979)
Dir. Ridley Scott
People seem to forget how influential this film was for the science-fiction genre. From the visual style to the way it is shot have all been incorporated in science-fiction since but never better than in this film. Again, the idea of isolation plays a huge part in what makes this film work but what really makes this film so good, and I truly believe this, is the design of the Xenomorph. If the film was exactly the same but that design is off it just doesn’t work, but it is so good and so iconic that it truly takes the film to another level.
34: ‘Back to the Future’ (1985)
Dir. Robert Zemeckis
Show me a person who doesn’t like this film and I’ll show you a liar. This film is universally loved, mostly because it is so damn good. It is extremely accessible and fun with brilliant characters being portrayed brilliantly. A bit like ‘Alien’ though I don’t think the film works without Michael J. Fox’s incredible performance as Marty McFly. He is so relatable that we are onboard with him from the first moment we meet him. I also love Biff but who doesn’t?!
33: ‘Airplane!’ (1980)
Dir. David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, Jerry Zucker, Ken Finkleman
This film is hands down one of the funniest of all time. Literally every line is quotable, how many films can you say that about? A lot of people will watch this and think the style of comedy is really silly, but it is also extremely smart in just how silly it is without going overboard. The best thing about the film is just how re-watchable it is. You can watch this twenty-five times and each time you will find new jokes. I dare you to watch this and not laugh, it isn’t possible.
32: ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)
Dir. Hayao Miyazaki
This film is just pure joy and happiness packaged into ninety minutes. Honestly, I don’t think it is possible to watch this film and not have a sore face at the end of it because of how much you have been smiling. It also happens to be a beautiful film and the scene where the two girls and Totoro are stood in the rai at the bus top is genuinely a visual gem of a scene. It is impossible to dislike this film. You might not love it, but you can’t dislike it. I think it might actually be illegal.
31: ‘Lady Bird’ (2017)
Dir. Greta Gerwig
Greta Gerwig is one of the most exciting directors working today and ‘Lady Bird’ is a perfect example as to why. In essence it is a coming of age story like so many we have seen before. But it is from a perspective of a teenage girl which is a viewpoint that isn’t shown enough, and it is executed brilliantly in this film. I love a coming of age film anyway and this one hits all the notes brilliantly and then some. The film is filled with superb characters all being performed brilliantly and the narrative is engaging consistently throughout. It really connected with me the first time I saw it and it continues to every time I see it again.
30: ‘Jurassic Park’ (1993)
Dir. Steven Spielberg
Dinosaurs are fucking awesome and never have they been better portrayed on film than they are here. You can watch this today 27 years after its release and it still holds up unbelievably well. The special effects mixing with the practical effects is flawless and I still can’t believe they achieved that in 1993. The film also happens to be extremely exciting with Spielberg being on top form throughout. I adore this film and it’s not just because I like seeing dinosaurs on screen (although that really helps).
29: ‘Monty Python’s Life of Brain’ (1979)
Dir. Terry Jones
The controversy surrounding the release of this film is almost as interesting as the film itself and if you enjoy the film, I suggest looking into it. As for the film itself what can be said. It is downright hilarious at almost every moment in that way that only the Monty Python lot could do. It is a style of comedy that isn’t for everyone, but my god does it tickle my funny bone.
28: ‘Throne of Blood’ (1957)
Dir. Akira Kurosawa
And we have made it to what I feel is Kurosawa’s masterpiece. This film is just incredible. It is Macbeth but set in Feudal Japan and if that doesn’t sell the film to you, I don’t know what well. Visually this is Kurosawa at his best and I don’t think Mifune has ever been better than he is here. This film is truly remarkable and implore everyone to watch it.
27: ‘Annie Hall’ (1977)
Dir. Woody Allen
This is one of the best romantic comedies ever made, and yet it isn’t even Allen’s best rom-com (we’ll get there). The writing in the film is so sharp and witty and it is so well done that you can watch the film again and again and enjoy it equally each and every time. The chemistry between Allen and Diane Keaton is brilliant (probably because they were married) and you can’t help but fall in love with Annie every single time you watch it.
26: ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ (1975)
Dir. Terry Jones, Graham Chapman
Is it controversial to put this above ‘Life of Brian’? Maybe. But for me I think it is the funnier of the two films and feels more like classic Python throughout. It is both super silly and really clever in how it gets you to laugh and I think it has more laughs per minute than ‘Life of Brian’. It is one of those where I feel like the two films will flip in my ranking over and over but as of now ‘Holy Grail’ takes the prize.
25: ‘Spider-Man’ (2002)
Dir. Sam Raimi
This is the greatest live action superhero film ever made. It is a film that has so much charm to it, but also has the Sam Raimi style slapped onto it which makes it feel visceral and gives it a truly brilliant visual style. People like to criticise Tobey Maguire for his portrayal of Peter Parker but I think he does a great job, and Willem Defoe is the perfect level of ham in his role of Green Goblin. Overall, the film is just an absolute ton of fun and I could just have it on repeat.
24: ‘Star Wars: Episode 4 – A New Hope’ (1977)
Dir. George Lucas
The film that started it all and it is still so, so good to this day. Talk about special effects still looking great, this film loos remarkable which is ridiculous for a film that everyone thought would be a disaster. The narrative is a great adventure which has you engaged from the first second, the characters are all brilliantly crafted and portrayed, and the music, oh my god the music. John Williams is a genius and it is his score that adds so much to this film and this series.
23: ‘Apocalypse Now’ (1979)
Dir. Francis Ford Coppola
If the last 30 minutes of this film didn’t exist this would be my favourite film of all time. Up until Marlon Brando turns up I would say that the film is perfect. The way it is shot is incredible and all the performances are brilliant, with Martin Sheen putting in the performance of his life. There is something hypnotic, almost dreamlike about the whole experience. It is such a shame the last 30 minutes doesn’t live up to the rest of the film. It isn’t even bad, it just is a huge downgrade and what is otherwise a perfect film.
22: ‘School of Rock’ (2003)
Dir. Richard Linklater
This may be the most rewatchable film of all time. I must have seen this film going on 35 times and every single time I absolutely love it. Jack Black’s energy throughout the film sucks you and keeps you there. Without him this film is nothing. The writing in the film is so witty and charming and all the goods, although not incredible actors, all do a good job. Also, a shout out to Joan Cusack whose performance is criminally underrated.
21: ‘Manhattan’ (1979)
Dir. Woody Allen
Here we have Allen’s best romantic-comedy and best film. Again, we have Allen and Keaton partnering up and their chemistry is again superb. The film is also equally as funny as any of Allen’s other films, but it is the visual style that makes me love this more than his others. Shooting the film in black and white makes a much more visually interesting film, and the way Allen lovingly shoots Manhattan and New York is stunning and you can see how much he adores the city in just how he shows it. It is a truly stunning film.
20: ’12 Angry Men’ (1957)
Dir. Sidney Lumet
This film is just 12 men sitting in a jury room trying to decide whether a young boy is guilty of the murder of his father, and yet it is one of the most engaging and emotionally satisfying films ever made. You have an absolutely stellar cast all performing at the very peak of their powers and it is these performances and the relationships between these characters that makes the film so watchable and so good. Not many films make me fist bump more than once and yet a film where people are just talking gets me to do it every single time.
19: ‘The Wrestler’ (2008)
Dir. Darren Aronofsky
You don’t have to give a single shit about wrestling to fall in love with this film and I think that is some of the biggest praise that you can give to a film. The film is shot is a pseudo-documentary, handheld style which gives the film a much more down to earth, realistic feel that makes all the emotion of the film all that more effective. Mickey Rourke puts in the performance of his life and is truly spectacular throughout. It is such a great emotional piece and one that hits me every time I watch it.
18: ‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)
Dir. Ang Lee
When I first watched this film, I wasn’t ready for how heartbroken I would be come the end of it. This is one of the greatest romances ever seen on screen and the struggles they go through with their relationship makes for one of the most compelling and emotional visceral films of all time. At the heart of it you have two incredible performances from Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal who have great chemistry and play off each other wonderfully. The ending is also one of the biggest tearjerker scenes in film history.
17: ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ (1968)
Dir. Stanley Kubrick
This may not be my favourite film of all time but if I was making a list of what the ‘best’ film of all time was this film would probably land at number 1. On a technical level it is flawless. The film looks spectacular. Even to this day the effects hold up so incredibly well. HAL is one of the greatest villains in film history and is generally scary at times despite being nothing more than a small computer with a robotic voice. The film is very slow and moves at a snail’s pace, but it is so visually astonishing that you don’t mind so much.
16: ‘The Lord of the Rings’ (2001 – 2003)
Dir. Peter Jackson
Okay, I’m cheating and technically putting three films in one spot. But they are effectively all on film anyway and it’s my list so I can do what the fuck I want. In all honesty I just couldn’t decide on any kind of order for these films. It is the greatest film trilogy of all time. The scale and ambition of the series is insane and the fact they were able to pull it off as well as they were is incredible. The films are action packed, filled with great adventure and amazing characters who you want to see succeed. Middle Earth is a fully realised and fleshed out world and all the creatures that reside within it are brilliantly designed. I don’t have enough love for this series.
15: ‘Good Will Hunting’ (1997)
Dir. Gus Van Sant
This film is one that grows on me every time I watch it. It is just so well written and there are several moments of dialogue in the film that are so brilliantly performed that I just want to keep coming back and seeing them again. Most of these moments belong to Robin Williams who is absolutely incredible in this film. He manages to have moments of comedy that you would expect from him, but he also has truly moving and touching moments. You want to know this character that he portrays, and it is testament to the man. This is one I can see climbing these ranks the more I watch it.
14: ‘Shaun of the Dead’ (2004)
Dir. Edgar Wright
The first film in the superb ‘Cornetto Trilogy’ and also my first introduction to Edgar Wright who would go on to become one of my favourite directors (as we will soon see). This film is consistently funny no matter how many times you see it, but it also does the thing that all great satires of genres need to do, in that it is equally as good as a zombie film as it is as a comedy. It has great moments of gore and horror and it also has some truly emotional moments, all while remaining one of the funniest films ever made.
13: ‘The Incredibles’ (2004)
Dir. Brad Bird
Now here is the greatest superhero film of all time. The reason this film works so well is because, although the main characters are superheroes and the film is full of great superhero action set pieces it isn’t actually about that. The film is about family and a family who are learning to live in a world where they are no longer welcome as their true selves. That is what gives this film the real heart it needs to be so good. It also helps that is brilliantly animated with a fun and witty script and characters who you want to keep coming back to.
12: ‘Hot Fuzz’ (2007)
Dir. Edgar Wright
He’s back almost as soon as he had left. If you asked me next week, I would probably swap this with ‘Shaun of the Dead’ they are that close in quality. But I think this one is just that bit better. Again, it could work brilliantly as a buddy cop film, but it also one of the funniest films ever made. It is so incredibly quotable, and every scene is a laugh a minute. The action in the film is also great fun, and the final showdown in the village works as an exciting action set piece as good as any action film.
11: ‘Casino Royale’ (2006)
Dir. Martin Campbell
This is the best James Bond film and I will hear nothing else on the matter. You can argue whether Daniel Craig is the best James Bond, but this is the best James Bond film. From the very opening of the film with the black and white bathroom fight scene you know what you are in for. It is so physical and gritty, and the film builds on this as it goes along. I adore this film and it was the perfect way to kick off the Craig era of Bond films.
10: ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004)
Dir. Michel Gondry
This film has such a bizarre premise asking the question of ‘if you could completely forget about a past relationship would you want to?’ The way the film explores that question is done incredibly well on a narrative and visual level. The best bits of the film are where Jim Carrey’s character is going through his memories as they are wiped from his mind, with the key moment of this being a beach house collapsing around him as he is forgetting it and trying desperately to hold onto the memory of it. It is both visually engrossing and emotionally moving, and that is the best way to describe this film.
9: ‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’ (2010)
Dir. Edgar Wright
Our third Edgar Wright film in a short time and this is his best one. There is something about this film that just connects with me. I think it is probably my indie kid tendencies as this film truly feels like a film made for the indie scene, with the musical side of it and all the dress sense and all that. But Wright’s style both in his writing and filmmaking is in full swing in this film and it is both a funny and pure fun film. I could watch this a million times and never get bored of it.
8: American Psycho (2000)
Dir. Mary Harron
This film is one that I got better for me second time around. I really enjoyed it first time, but second time something just clicked, and I really, really enjoyed it. What I love about it is that you are never sure what is real and what’s not. Did any of what happened in the film really happen or was it all in Patrick Bateman’s mind? It is kept truly ambiguous and I love it. But I also love how it satirises this lifestyle where everyone is the same. The ‘card’ scene is the best example for this, and that scene is truly brilliant. Also, the Huey Lewis and the News scene is one of my favourites of all time.
7: ‘The Damned United’ (2009)
Dir. Tom Hooper
This is the ultimate football film that isn’t really about football at all. As a football fan I love that whole side of the film, seeing real footage of old matches and all the recreations of football matches that are in the film are great, but it is the central journey of Brian Clough that is the hook an Michael Sheen is absolutely wonderful in this film. Every moment he has this incredible screen presence and you could just sit and watch him play Clough all day. He is surrounded by an extremely good cast who all do really well, but he is the standout. This is a film I watched almost daily when I first saw it and I haven’t got bored of it yet.
6: ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ (1988)
Dir. Isao Takahata
This is the only film that has ever made me cry, and it was only a couple of weeks ago. I had seen the film before, and it had me on the verge of tears but didn’t push me to cry. This shows the emotional power of this film that even though I knew what was coming, even though I prepared myself for the scenes that I knew were emotionally devastating it still got me and still made me bawl. As well as being one of the most emotionally moving films of all time it is also superbly animated with great sound design and score. I love it despite how fucking sad it is.
5: ‘Lost in Translation’ (2003)
Dir. Sofia Coppola
This is the newest film to break in to my top 5 and it is one that has the potential to be even higher the more I watch it. Every single time I see this film I fall a little bit more in love with it. The two central performances by Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson are brilliant and they have a fantastic chemistry together. The film is beautifully shot, making the whole experience feel at once like this huge adventure in Tokyo whilst also feeling enclosed and lonely. I am a sucker for a good romantic drama and this absolutely the pinnacle of that. As for what Bill Murray whispers to Scarlett Johansson at the end I’m not sure I want to know. The ambiguity means I can change what it is each and every time.
4: ‘Star Wars: Episode 5 – The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980)
Dir. Irvin Kershner
Does anyone disagree that this is the best ‘Star Wars’ film? It has all the best moments. The Hoth battles scene, all of what happens on Cloud City, our first introduction to Yoda, THAT reveal. It is just head and shoulders above all the rest. It is the most exciting, the most emotionally moving and easily the funniest (Yoda is fucking hilarious). It also has the best performances rom everyone involved, especially Harrison Ford who is on fire in this film. I adore this franchise, but nothing else really comes close to just how good this one is.
3: ‘This is Spinal Tap’ (1984)
Dir. Rob Reiner
Hey look, Rob Reiner is back. Not only is this film his best, but it is also the greatest comedy ever made. Every single line is incredible and the fact that a lot of this was ad-libbed blows my mind. Almost every line is hilarious and quotable, so much so that you have to watch the film over and over again because you’re far to busy laughing to catch all of the jokes. Also, I would like to say that the fictional band of Spinal Tap are genuinely good, and I would happily sit and listen to their albums, and sometimes I do.
2: ‘Jaws’ (1975)
Dir. Steve Spielberg
Every time I sit down to watch this film, I am worried that isn’t going to be as good as I remember it being, and every time I am annoyed that I ever thought that. Yes, the effects do not hold up very well, but they are used so sparingly that by the time they are shown in full you are so engrossed and bought in to the story of the film that you don’t even care. The best bits of the film are where we don’t see the shark and where we just see people disappear into the ocean without a trace, they are the truly terrifying moments of the film. The film is also helped hugely by three superb central performances by Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider who have great screen chemistry and bounce off each other really well. Robert Shaw in particular is superb, especially in his monologue about the USS Indianapolis which may just be my favourite scene in the film. His performance throughout it is incredible.
1: ‘The Shining’ (1980)
Dir. Stanley Kubrick
Anyone who knows me at all will not be surprised to see this film sitting comfortably at number 1. After all it has been my favourite film for as long as I remember, and I can’t see it being pushed off it’s perch anytime soon. I love everything about it, from the first moment where we get a beautiful aerial shot of a car driving along this huge road while this horrific score plays over the top right up until the final ambiguous shot which no one knows what it means, I just love it. It almost ruined horror films for me as since I first saw this film no film has been able to scare me as much or even come close. The film is also so beautiful, as you would expect from a Kubrick film. There are several tracking shots following Danny on his tricycle throughout the hotel which are stunning visual and have this incredible sound design which is so simple and yet so effective. Jack Nicholson is also fantastic. A lot of people criticise his performance in the film, but I love it, he is just so much fun to watch as he slips more and mor into madness. I can’t really explain in words how much I love this film, but I’ll tell you a story which proves it. Last year when we were allowed to leave our houses, I went to the Kubrick exhibition in London. It was set up in a way where every section was dedicated to a single film, and about halfway through I turned a corner and saw that I had arrived at the section for ‘The Shining’ and I shit you not I teared up a little bit. Overdramatic? Maybe. But I do just love the film that much and for me it is the best film of all time.
