The(o)nly Movie Blog

As we begin the end of this list, we find movies that look for the good in humanity and celebrate its many triumphs.

91. Toy Story 2 (1999)

How do you improve upon one of the greatest animated movies of all time? Well, you do what Toy Story 2 did: make it funnier, add more intrigue to the plot, and dive deeper into everyone’s favorite character. When toy cowboy Woody is stolen by an antique toy collector, he confronts his past and is forced to make hard decisions regarding his future. The rest of the gang is far from neglected, with a delightful Star Wars parody storyline, a great new collection of characters, and a hilarious gag involving Barbie dolls. But what makes this movie special is its depth and emotion, examining themes of abandonment, change, and whether there’s a difference between doing what’s right and doing what makes us happy. With laughs, grins, and a montage that may make you shed a tear or 2, Toy Story 2 isn’t just one of the best animated movies ever. It’s one of the best movies ever, period. 

92. True Grit (1969)

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can bring a young pistol into the life of John Wayne to reinvigorate his career en route to one of his best performances in True Grit. When spunky teenager Mattie’s (Kim Darby) father is murdered by a crooked outlaw, she recruits washed up US Marshal Rooster Cogburn (John Wayne) to track him down and exact the justice of the law. Wayne and Darby make for one of the best odd couples seen on screen, with the weathered and pessimistic Cogburn slowly won over by Mattie’s over-the-top charisma. All of the gun fights, land-traversing, and standard fun of the Western genre are blended with ideas of growing up but never aging past the joys in life, making True Grit one of the best movies that the Wild West has to offer. 

93. The Truman Show (1998)

You thought that 90 Day Fiancé takes reality tv too far? Enter The Truman Show, the story of Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey), a middle-aged man who has no idea that his whole existence is just one big fancy set for a reality tv show, of which he has been the star since birth. This dramedy was far ahead of its time, putting modern tv and movies under the microscope and identifying our society’s caustic desire to push the envelope of entertainment, regardless of the repercussions. However, this isn’t a melancholy movie by any means, lampooning its world of reality tv as much as it openly critiques it. Jim Carrey excels at both ends of the movie’s tonal spectrum, bringing his trademark goofy charm as well as dramatic heft. Humorous, didactic, and a little creepy, The Truman Show is as entertaining as it is important. 

94. Unbreakable (2000)

Before superhero movies really got off the ground, M. Night Shyamalan dissects and grounds the now-popular genre in the overlooked Unbreakable. When David Dunn (Bruce Willis) is the sole survivor of a devastating train crash, he and others begin to wonder if he possesses superhuman abilities. This movie smartly crafts a world that is acutely aware of comic books and uses their existence to further validate its plot. Standard superhero fare is nowhere to be found here, with flawed and downtrodden characters, a gritty and (literally) dreary world, and very few action scenes that are less fantastical than most crime thrillers. As Unbreakable’s narrative carries on, it will continually break down any preconceived notions you have about comic book movies in ways that are both shocking and exciting. 

95. Vertigo (1958)

If Alfred Hitchcock is the king of mystery, then Vertigo is the lofty throne upon which he sits, providing a grand display of all his talent and ability. Detective Scotty Ferguson (Jimmy Stewart) undergoes a traumatic investigation-related incident, causing him to develop vertigo and forcing him to enter an early retirement. When one of Ferguson’s old friends asks him to undertake a simple PI job, he reluctantly agrees, hoping that the investigation will help him overcome his mental trauma, but it has the opposite effect, trapping him in a tangled web of mystery and causing him to question his own sanity. Vertigo’s visual style is both beautiful and creepy, brilliantly amalgamating Hitchcock’s horror and mystery sensibilities. The story slowly grabs you until you are completely enwrapped without even knowing it, refusing to let you go until the very end. Stewart and costar Kim Novak make for quite the 1-2 punch in one of the most engaging and shocking mysteries ever told on film. 

96. Wait Until Dark (1967)

Arguably the first great home invasion movie, Wait Until Dark set the stage for the horror genre of the 70s and 80s. Susy Hendrix (Audrey Hepburn) is rapidly losing her vision, and when her husband heads out on a work assignment, a group of criminals infiltrate her home in search of stolen drugs, threatening Susy’s life if she doesn’t find them. Hepburn largely defies type in this role, still refined and sophisticated, but also filled with bitterness and a timid nature. The story slowly builds the scares, using our protagonist’s blindness to keep the audience in suspense, and culminating in a thrilling and memorable third act. If you’re looking for a scary time that relies on story and character instead of blood and gore, then this is the hidden gem you’ve been waiting for. 

97. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)

A classic that’s remembered as both every kid’s dream-come-true and nightmare, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is one of the weirdest and most beloved movies of all time, and I mean that in the best way possible. Poor boy Charlie, along with 4 other children and their guardians, win golden tickets that invite them to mysterious Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. What proceeds is an interesting take on the typical fairytale, bursting with creativity and driven by lessons of morality. Gene Wilder steals the show as the enigmatic Mr. Wonka, playing both childlike inventor and pessimistic adult with an air of unpredictability that keeps us the audience on our toes. 1 part sweet, 1 part scary, and altogether fun, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is sure to leave a good taste in your mouth. 

98. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Investing groundbreaking technology in a kids’ movie may seem like a waste to some, but The Wizard of Oz’s revolutionary use of technicolor brings its fantastical land to life and transforms it into the classic it is today. We open on young Dorothy, longing for more than the black & white farm life that we see, and when a tornado whisks her and her house away, she opens her front door and sees a world bursting with color and imagination. Though also following a rather standard fairytale formula, actress Judy Garland steals the show as the wide-eyed Dorothy, and we discover a whole host of other lovable characters, juxtaposed with one of the most infamous villains of all time: The Wicked Witch of the West. From the ruby slippers, to the yellow brick road, to the glitzy Emerald City, The Wizard of Oz will fill your heart with joy and wonder. 

99. Wonder Woman (2017)

In a world filled with testosterone-filled crime fighting, Wonder Woman burst onto the scene and proved that heroism isn’t defined by one’s gender. When US pilot Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) crash-lands on a fantastical island full of amazonian women, he is thrust back into the fight by warrior Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) when she learns that Ares, the god of war, may be behind the worldwide conflict (WWI). Wonder Woman is enjoyable on nearly every level, packed with stylized action, fish-out-of-water humor, and a strong message that calls out to the goodness inside of all of us. Though not a flawless movie, Gal Gadot’s portrayal of this pure and bold superhero takes it up several notches, displaying strength, courage, and an unflinching desire to do good in a way that’s both relatable and inspiring. In a broken and often pessimistic world, let Wonder Woman restore your faith in humanity. 

100. Franchise Spotlight: The Lord of the Rings

Frodo: “I wish the ring had never come to me. I wish that none of this had happened.” 

Gandalf: “So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” –The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring 

Before the days of Harry Potter, Thor, and Game of Thrones, the world had never seen a traditional fantasy premise that was given the big budget treatment. It was seen as too nerdy, too niche, and too nonsensical to draw large crowds at the theater. Director Peter Jackson went from one big movie studio to another with his plan to adapt the trilogy of Lord of the Rings books, only to face rejection at every turn. He was forced to partner with the smaller New Line Cinema, who gave him irrationally tight budget and time restrictions, but he didn’t care. He believed that his trilogy would change the world, and he was absolutely right. 

Jackson and his team took the lore-rich writings of J.R.R. Tolkien and his fantastical world of Middle Earth, and they concentrated it down to its very core, resulting in a story that is faithful enough to satisfy fans of the books, simple enough to connect with new fans, and magical enough to enthrall them all. The set design and production are also some the best, if not THE best, that we’ve ever seen in movies. Jackson’s New Zealand provided a lush and diverse backdrop, and Weta Workshop crafted sets and props that immerse the viewer in the world of Middle Earth. The ensemble cast is one of the best ever assembled, from legends like Ian McKellen and Christopher Lee, to diamonds in the rough like Elijah Wood and Viggo Mortensen. 

All of these individual cogs in the machine of a movie are excellent, but they alone did not make The Lord of the Rings special. It’s the passion and commitment to greatness that overwhelms every single aspect of this series; the pain-staking labor of love that was evident even to my untrained, 12-year old eyes. These movies weren’t excellent by accident. It took one of the most incredible concerted efforts ever seen in cinematic history to overcome insurmountable odds, to prove all of the big studios wrong. Every spoken word of dialogue, every note of music, every frame of film, all of it, is nothing short of greatness. These movies not only brought New Line Cinema billions of dollars and joy to moviegoers across the globe, they also inspired an entire generation of future filmmakers and changed the movie industry forever, ushering in an age of incredible fantasy movies and tv shows that’s still going on today. Admittedly, I saved the best of the bunch for last, and on some levels that may have been a mistake, because my words could never truly do these movies justice. I suppose the only way to really grasp the special experience that these movies provide is to watch them for yourself, and that is, after all, the entire purpose of this list. 

Watch Order: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

That’s the list! Thank you for going on this journey with me, and if you have any ideas for what you’d like to see me write about next, drop them in the comments below!

Part 9 includes an array of films that focus on characters that are growing up, whether they’re 16 going on 17, swinging their way to manhood, or just hoping that the odds are in their favor.

81. The Sound of Music (1965)

Forbidden love and some kids with real moxie, singing our feelings and running from Nazis, uptight old fathers who refuse to sing, these are a few of The Sound of Music’s favorite things. This movie presents all of these things and more in a fun package, but it also poses hard topics, like losing loved ones and wartime, in a way that’s accessible to a younger audience. The general tone, however, is one of optimism, with show-stopping tunes accompanying charming dance numbers. Fraulein Maria leads this tonal charge, infecting a hard-lined family with her sense of joy and wonder. Though a sprawling epic, The Sound of Music is more interested in developing our characters over the passage of time than the events that occur during that span. Cheerful, grand, and full of hope, The Sound of Music is a pitch-perfect classic. 

82. Spider-Man (2002)

Playing to the strengths of its main character and source material, Spider-Man is the first comic book movie to successfully blend genres, giving us equally captivating superhero thrills and coming-of-age drama. Awkward Peter Parker gains mysterious power eerily similar to that of a spider, turning his life upside down as he attempts to balance his personal life with his mission to stop the nefarious Green Goblin. This action-packed trend setter is full of great moments that have seeped their way into pop culture, from Peter’s first swing, to the upside down kiss, to “with great power comes great responsibility.” This zany, over-the-top, and charming origin story swings high above the New York skyline and into our hearts. 

83. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

Of the 8 Spider-Man movies that have been made so far, who would have guessed that the cream of the crop would be an animated flick that’s a meta examination of the character himself? Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse follows teen Miles Morales as he gains his spidey-powers, teams up with Spider-pals from other dimensions, and tries to stop a hoard of super-villains who threaten to tear the fabric of his world apart. Boasting an animation style that had never been seen before, Spider-Verse leaps off the screen like panels of a comic book, leaving us in awe of scenes ranging from stunning action to teen melodrama. Miles is perhaps the best and most relatable Spider-Man yet, and the journey that he and the other Spider-peeps take brims with excitement and creativity. If there is a hidden gem to be found in the age of comic book movies, Spider-Verse is it. 

84. Spirited Away (2001)

The magnum opus of perhaps the greatest animation director of all time, Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away is the version of Alice in Wonderland you never knew you wanted. When young Chihiro’s parents disappear in an abandoned amusement park, she encounters a community of spirits that show themselves as the sun sets. Chihiro then embarks on a quest to blend into this supernatural world long enough to find her parents and go home. Perhaps the most visually imaginative movie ever made, Spirited Away sucks you into its foreign world with a litany of wacky characters and a surprisingly tame and pensive tone. This movie is packed with story, visuals and themes that will make you want to watch it over and over again. 

85. The Sting (1973)

Pioneer of the modern heist film, The Sting brings all of the charm, class, and coolness that we associate with the popular subgenre. Seasoned con man Henry (Paul Newman) and hot shot Johnny (Robert Redford) team up to fool a prominent mob boss and pull off the ultimate con. Newman and Redford’s chemistry is dynamite, adding its own intrigue and energy to the film. The story is also wildly entertaining, with shocks, twists, and thrills alike. Though not a thematically deep film, The Sting doesn’t need to be, relying on its suave characters and engrossing story that boasts a 3rd act that will have you on the edge of your seat. 

86. Sunset Boulevard (1950)

A film-noir that shows you the big death in the first scene, Sunset Boulevard is a subversive study of the perils of fame and fortune. When Joe Gills (William Holden) finds himself in a financial pinch, he stumbles upon former actress Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson), and the 2 form an unhealthy relationship based on greed and pride. Though it crafts an entertaining narrative, this is a character study through and through, examining the regret of missed opportunities,  the destructive power of the lust for wealth and recognition, and the toll that both of these vices put on the mind. Witty, engaging, and didactic, Sunset Boulevard will make you look at the world of moviemaking in an entirely new light. 

87. Taken (2008)

No dad is cooler or more frightening than Liam Neeson in 2008’s Taken. Retired military operative Bryan Mills (Neeson) permits his daughter to go on a trip to Europe, but with serious reservations. When his worst fears are realized and his daughter gets abducted, Mills jumps back into the game and fights his way through an entire crime ring in search of her. The impressive action is full of well-choreographed set pieces and real emotion, as Neeson pulls off both simultaneously to great effect. The emotional set up is adequate, but it’s Neeson’s performance that sells us on the father’s unstoppable desire to save his only child. Fun, fierce, and full of the feels, Taken takes a B-movie premise and elevates it to one of the best action movies of all time.

88. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

Very few movie adaptations of best-selling novels do its source material justice, but To Kill a Mockingbird nearly reaches the high mark set by its predecessor. Set in Depression-era Alabama, we see this story unfold through the eyes of young Scout as she and her young brother witness their father Atticus (Gregory Peck) fight prejudice in the judicial system, and the 2 children overcome prejudice of their own. Peck gives one of the best performances of all time as the kind and stoic lawyer, injecting the film with a strong sense of what is right, but also presenting a vulnerable figure whose plight demands our sympathy. Unassuming yet undeniably captivating, To Kill a Mockingbird is the slice of 1930s life that will gladly be enjoyed for generations to come. 

89. Toy Story (1995)

The first animated movie to be generated entirely by computers, Toy Story proves that sometimes, you do get it right the first time. When Andy gets a cool new space toy called Buzz Lightyear, Cowboy Woody finds himself left in the toy bin, prompting a desperate attempt to win back Andy’s attention and reclaim his spot as favorite toy. An animated movie has never assembled such a lineup of likable characters, from Woody and Buzz, to Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, to the paranoid Rex, to the loyal Slinky, just to name a few. The themes of the movie are also surprisingly adult, dealing with the loss of meaning in life and the acceptance of new people and new self-significance. Bursting with hilarious banter and toy-centric adventure, falling in love with Toy Story is no-assembly required. 

90. Franchise Spotlight: The Hunger Games

 “[Hope] is the only thing stronger than fear. A little hope is effective. A lot of hope is dangerous.” President Snow, The Hunger Games 

With the rise of young adult novels in the early 2000s and 2010s, movie adaptations were sure to come, and they did, much to the chagrin of movie fans. Now that Twilight, Divergent, and other YA series have received the movie franchise treatment, most of which audiences did not care for, a stigma around the genre has developed, claiming that these movies can only be enjoyed by the young or simple-minded. The Hunger Games shot through all of these criticisms like an arrow from Katniss’s quiver. 

Many questioned if a Hunger Games adaptation would work at all, given that the source material includes an event where 2 dozen adolescents fight to the death, and its core audience may not accept the gore of an R rating. But the filmmakers did a brilliant job in this regard, relying on tension instead of bloodshed and implying the vast majority of extreme violence, only showing it when absolutely necessary. This tempered approach ended up playing to the movies’ advantage, making the gruesome death of a beloved character all the more devastating. Through these bloody games, the films conquer themes of classism, PTSD, and the true power of the people. Most mature movies handle same subject matter with much less poignancy, but these movies are just for teenage girls, right? *buzz* 

Nearly the entire series comes from the perspective of young warrior Katniss, so without the perfect lead actress, the franchise might have faltered, but thankfully they entrusted Jennifer Lawrence with this massive undertaking, now an international star, but relative unknown back in 2012. She, along with talented youngsters and seasoned vets, brought the books’ world of Panem to life in an unforgettable tale of injustice and bravery. Filled with charming characters, gripping storytelling, and indelible themes of courage and hope, this franchise is for anyone who appreciates a well-told story. Don’t let the YA stigma stop you from enjoying one of the best movie series ever conceived. 

Watch Order: The Hunger Games, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2

What did you think of Part 9? Let me know in the comments below, and be on the lookout for the 10th and final installment tomorrow!

The movies of Part 8 find commonality in their search for answers: mysteries will be unraveled, personal crises will be resolved, and meaning will be found in both the extraordinary and mundane.

71. Saving Mr. Banks (2013)

Art is often informed by the creator’s real life experiences, and it’s the deep exploration of this idea that separates Saving Mr. Banks from other “based on a true story” films. Author P.L. Travers (Emma Thompson) reluctantly signs over the rights of her children’s novel, Mary Poppins, to the Walt Disney Co., but there’s a catch: Travers’s contract stipulates that she have strong creative control over the filmmaking process. The journey from book to movie is a fun one, with the prudish and calloused Travers comically clashing with the fun-loving writers and composers in charge of adapting her book. But as she dives deeper into this creative process, we learn the reasons for her mean-spirited demeanor and gain insight into the tragic inspirations for her famous novel. Emma Thompson gives a criminally underrated performance as we follow her cathartic journey of acceptance of both her painful past and inconvenient present. 

72. Searching (2018)

“Found footage movie” and “smartly crafted piece of filmmaking” aren’t phrases that you’d typically see in the same review, but Searching defies convention and ingeniously updates the thriller genre. When David Kim’s (John Cho) teenage daughter goes missing, he uses every bit of information stored on their electronic devices in hopes of finding his daughter and bringing her home. Thanks to webcams, we get a peak into Mr. Kim’s entire investigative process in a way that feels entirely organic, adding to the realism and immersion of the theatrical experience. This convention also means that actor John Cho is on screen for nearly the entire runtime, just sitting in front of a computer, and he does an outstanding job of keeping us the audience invested despite these limitations. Smart, tension-filled, and properly emotional, Searching is a unique piece of moviemaking that deserves more attention. 

73. Shrek (2001)

Disney’s sugar-sweet animation ruled the 90s, but Shrek burst into the 2000s with derisive humor and pop culture references, ushering in a new kind of animated movie that we still see today. The titular Shrek is an ugly and feared ogre in Duloc, a land filled with all of the classic fairy tale creatures. He and his annoying sidekick Donkey are tasked with saving the princess and returning her to her betrothed Lord Farquaad. Though the story of Shrek is nothing new (and intentionally so), it’s the pull-no-punches tone of the film that surprised and delighted audiences. Packed with characters that are both likable and vulnerable, this modern spin on the fairy tale formula is a good time for movie fans both young and old. 

(True story: my grandparents love the Shrek movies so much, they went to see the 4th one on their 50th wedding anniversary!) 

74. A Silent Voice (2016)

Can a person who’s hurt you, who’s traumatized you, really change, and even if they can, should you forgive them? A Silent Voice attempts to answer these difficult questions and more, but the film challenges us even further, telling the story from the perspective of the remorseful bully instead of the sympathetic victim. The movie uses animation to great creative effect, with the X’s over people’s faces (indicating ostracism and introversion), seen above, being just one example of its clever visual storytelling. This deeply moving film develops characters and weaves narrative in such a way that delivers real answers to questions that are not easy to talk about, let alone resolve. I would strongly encourage you to set aside the typical sitcoms and fun blockbusters, at least this once, and give this distressing yet exceedingly rewarding movie a try. 

75. Sing Street (2016)

Need a pep in your step? Take a stroll down Sing Street, a movie about a teenage boy who starts a band to impress a girl. This simple premise evolves into a razor-sharp romp about love, disappointment, and finding your passion in life. This comedy/drama/musical transports us to 1980s Ireland and dares us to not fall in love with our plucky protagonist Connor, who is constantly kicked down by life, but refuses to stay down, choosing instead to sing, dance, and rock n’ roll. The entire ensemble of young actors is superb, lighting up the screen with energetic yet believable performances. The soundtrack is an all-timer, filled with original bops that you’ll keep on repeat long after you’ve seen the movie. Get lost in young love, roar with the crowd, and leave your inner-cynic behind with Sing Street.

76. Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

A classic musical if ever there was one, Singin’ in the Rain not only tells the story of a change in Hollywood, but it changed Hollywood itself. Set during the convention of the “talkie,” or audible dialogue in movies, famed actor Don recruits no-name singer Kathy to dub over the dialogue for Lina, his costar with a rather unmelodious voice. The trio, along with Don’s friend Cosmo, attempt to produce Monumental Picture’s first talkie. This film puts the “music’ in muscial, where tunes not only drive the plot, but we also bounce from one non-diegetic song to another, boasting world class singing, dancing, and set production. Just like the title suggests, not even the dreariest of days could keep Singin’ in the Rain from putting a smile on your face. 

77. The Sixth Sense (1999)

This review will require all of my creative muscles in attempt to sell you on the movie without revealing the most famous plot twist in movie history, but luckily, The Sixth Sense has much more to offer than just a shocking ending. Psychologist Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis) meets young patient Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment), a boy who claims he can see dead people. Malcolm enlists Cole to help him communicate with a deceased patient who Malcolm thinks he failed. Willis and Osment’s chemistry carry this movie all the way through, portraying a bond that’s part doctor-patient, part father-son. The cold color pallet and melancholy tone only add to the unsettling vibe that permeates the film and elevates the end to legendary status. Twists and turns abound in this lauded mystery that will leave your jaw on the floor once the ending is revealed. 

78. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Before Netflix, before TVs, before cameras… ok, not that far back, but long ago at the beginning of cinema as we know it, a man named Walt Disney premiered the first ever feature-length animated film, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs still lives in our hearts and streaming services today. The film was a rousing success, launching the Disney brand that still rules the modern movie industry. Though its accomplishments are many, they mean very little if the film can’t connect with today’s moviegoers, but Snow White is a worthy modern classic, bursting with beautiful animation, timeless songs, a conniving villain, and who doesn’t love that goofy gang of dwarfs? Many movies fade with time, but Snow White has endured, not only in the history books, but in the Disney + queues in homes around the world. 

79. Some Like It Hot (1959)

Comedy is a fickle genre. People have a wide array of tastes, and audience sensibilities tend to change with the culture. So to find a 60-year old comedy that’s still funny is hard, and I’m here to report that Some Like It Hot is, to this day, absolutely hilarious. Mischievous musicians Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon) desperately search for a gig that will help them skip town, and they find just the thing, but there’s a catch: the musical group is women-only. So our devilish duo throw on a wig, a dress, and hop on the train, without anyone being the wiser. The situational comedy, writing, and comedic timing of our 2 leads are all superb in this identity-shifting laugh fest that is sure to amuse even the most eclectic comedy fans.

80. Franchise Spotlight: Mission: Impossible

“Hunt is uniquely trained and highly motivated- a specialist without equal- immune to any countermeasures. There is no secret he cannot extract, no security he cannot breach, no person he cannot become. He has most likely anticipated this very conversation and is waiting to strike in whatever direction we move. Sir, Hunt is the living manifestation of destiny, and he has made you his mission.” Alan Hunley, Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation

Action movie franchises come and go, seldom leaving their mark on cinematic history, and even more rarely enduring for decades on end. But here we are in 2020, 24 years after the release of the first Mission: Impossible movie, and yet the series is still going strong and is, dare I say, better than ever. 

Mission: Impossible burst onto the scene in the mid-90s and turned young Tom Cruise, then of Top Gun fame, into a bona fide action star. Loaded with top-notch espionage, sharp dialogue, and a gritty visual style, this movie changed the game with its memorable set pieces, but it justified its runtime with a surprisingly clever and mature approach to storytelling. Unfortunately, Mission: Impossible then caught a case of common sequlitis, with its second entry failing in almost every regard, and its third entry taking risks but ultimately delivering a mediocre product. All seemed lost for this once-promising spy series… 

Until directors Brad Bird and Christopher McQuarrie took the helm and reinvented the franchise in separate yet complimentary ways. Bird pushed Cruise’s death-defying stunts to the limit and brought them to the big screen in a way that wowed audiences. The 4th film’s scaling of the Burj Khalifa changed stunt work forever. Bird also abandoned the serialized nature of the series and connected his film with the predominant storyline of the one that came before it. McQuarrie continued Bird’s crazy action scenes and interconnected narrative while also giving more depth to our protagonist, Ethan Hunt. McQuarrie also greatly improved the team dynamic and fostered a cast of characters that will remain in tact for at least 4 movies (MI 7 and 8 are in production). All of these changes resulted in the manifestation of Mission: Impossible’s long-dormant potential and catapulted a so-so movie franchise to one of the best of all time. 

*For the first and only time on this list, I recommend that you skip one movie in the series of a Franchise Spotlight. Mission: Impossible 2 adds nothing to the franchise in terms of enjoyment or narrative. See the full watch order below. 

Watch Order: Mission: Impossible, Mission: Impossible 3, Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol, Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation, and Mission: Impossible Fallout

What did you think of Part 8? Let me know in the comments below, and be on the lookout for Part 9 tomorrow!

Part 7 is packed with movies that delight, from classic adventures, to roll-on-the-floor comedies, to rousing sports stories.

61. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

Adapting an amusement park ride into a movie is one of the worst ideas I’ve ever heard, but Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl turned out to be a whale of a tale. This Disney World attraction turned swashbuckling adventure follows the young blacksmith Will Turner and Captain Jack Sparrow, whose intersecting paths cause them to join in piratey mischief and chase after their deepest desires. The exhilarating action and crafty adventure are already better than most sea-dwelling fare, but what elevates this movie from good to must-see is the Oscar-winning performance from Johnny Depp, playing the unpredictable Jack Sparrow. So hoist the anchor, grab a shovel, and unearth this treasure of a movie.

62. Pitch Perfect (2012)

Pitch Perfect takes teen acapella music from “anything but that” to “aca-awesome” in this generation-defining musical comedy. Beca Mitchell (Anna Kendrick) enters her freshman year of college with no friends and even less social skills, but when she’s invited to try out for the school’s most prestigious acapella group, she finds not only her voice, but friends, love, and so much more. This movie makes the smart decision of only taking its musical performances seriously, as the excellent singing and choreography are balanced by gags and quips instead of emotional heft. Beca plays the straight (wo)man as nearly everyone else around her is a delightfully over-the-top character that all play incredibly well off each other. Put away the instruments, turn up the volume, and give Pitch Perfect a shot.

63. The Prestige (2006)

Are you watching closely? The slight of hand found in The Prestige doesn’t just come from the 2 magician protagonists, but also from the mystifying narrative that’s built around them. Set in the late 19th century, 2 talented magicians turn from friends to bitter rivals as jealousy and revenge fuel both the insanity of their tricks and their own inner-madness. Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman give 2 of the best performances of their careers as these bewitching showmen extend their deceptive prowess beyond the stage in attempts to bring the other down. Twists and turns abound in this sharply written thriller that dares us to examine the “how’s” and “why”s” of our dreams just as much as the “what’s.” Not only is The Prestige about magic, but the movie itself is a clever trick, leaving you guessing until the very end. 

64. The Princess Bride (1987)

Without a doubt the best story “read” on screen, The Princess Bride reinvents the fairytale genre in a way that has delighted moviegoers for generations. A sick young boy is apprehensive when his grandpa wants to read him a story, but he eventually concedes, and the two of them read through the tale of a lifetime that we the audience see played out on screen. This is the Stefon of movies because it has everything: fantasy, adventure, romance, and friendship, all of which are informed by the self-aware, tongue in cheek humor that makes for a delightfully original experience. Filled to the brim with lovable characters and quotable lines, The Princess Bride is a story that you just can’t put down.

65. A Quiet Place (2018)

Gimmicky monster flicks come out every year, but A Quiet Place is more than a contrived premise; it’s one of the best movies of the past decade. We focus on a young family caught in a world overrun by murderous creatures who will kill anything that makes a loud sound. John Krasinsky, star of the hit comedy series The Office, writes, directs, and stars in this tension-filled horror feature that’s less about the scares and more about the family who finds themselves in this nightmarish existence. Actress Emily Blunt is also excellent, but it’s the way in which this movie is crafted that makes it special, using sparse sound and striking visuals to great effect. I saw this movie in a full theater, and the entire audience was so engrossed in this near-soundless experience that people stopped munching on their popcorn out of fear of stirring the sound-sensitive beasts. 

66. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

No movie before or since has captured a pure sense of adventure like Raiders of the Lost Ark. The now-iconic archeologist Indiana Jones leads us on a quest to save the titular Ark of the Covenant, punctuated by the famous line, “It belongs in a museum!” The story is carried from set piece to set piece and fueled by Harrison Ford’s lead performance, moving at a brisk pace and filling each moment with amusing banter and irresistible charm. Within this well-crafted story, we find little things that will stick with you, from Indy’s bullwhip and hat, to the boulder rolling through the cave, to the unforgettable John Williams music. All of these elements come together and deliver one of the most enjoyable movie experiences of all time. 

67. Remember the Titans (2000)

The first in this list’s trio of sports movies, Remember the Titans both excels within its genre and rumbles far past it. When a 1960s Virginia high school hires a black football coach and forces integration, a football team full of both black and white players must come together in order to accomplish something great. That’s the general premise, and from that perspective, it’s a rather conventional sports movie, but it’s the relationships that the coaches and players form with each other that earns the movie a spot on this list. Denzel Washington leads both the team and the movie as Coach Herman Boone, and Wood Harris and Ryan Hurst’s unlikely friendship provide thrills on the field and dramatic tension off it. Ethan Suplee and Hayden Panettiere are also scene-stealers in this rousing tale of acceptance, togetherness, and fighting for what is right. 

68. Rocky (1976)

The underdog tale of underdog tales, Rocky not only turned Sylvester Stallone into an unlikely star, it also inspired a belief that anyone can accomplish their dreams if they put their mind to it. Stallone plays the titular Rocky, a hard-working but small-potatoes boxer who is given the once-in-a-lifetime chance to face off with the world’s heavyweight champion in an exhibition match. Rocky embodies the spirit of Philadelphia as he pushes himself to his physical limits in order to capitalize on this opportunity and attempt to shock the world. This inspiring journey about never giving up on your dreams is sure to delight sports and non-sports fans alike. 

69. The Sandlot (1993)

Rounding out the trifecta is the most fun sports movie on this list, The Sandlot. When baseball prodigy Scotty Smalls moves to a new town, he teams up with a local group of kids who love baseball as much as he does but don’t possess nearly the same skill set. Though set in 1960s suburban America and driven by a baseball-centric plot, this movie places much more emphasis on the boys’ dynamic than on the sport they love, and it’s all the better for it. This ragtag group constantly engages in hilarious hijinks that bonds the boys together and endears us to them. Leaning heavily on fun and friendship, this coming of age tale will leave you all laughs and smiles.  

70. Franchise Spotlight: The How to Train Your Dragon trilogy

“My name’s Hiccup. Great name, I know, but it’s not the worst. Parents believe a hideous name will frighten off gnomes and trolls. Like our charming Viking demeanor wouldn’t do that.” Hiccup, How to Train Your Dragon 

Starting a movie franchise based around a coming of age story is a daunting task. The audience has to accept the young protagonist and grow up with him as the story progresses. This undertaking is markedly more difficult when creating an animated series, as many moviegoers see this as a juvenile medium and would find the movies less appealing as they enter their teenage years. Dreamworks studios rejected these concerns and adapted the How to Train Your Dragon book series into one of the best movie trilogies of all time. 

The brilliance of this trilogy lies in its ability to avoid repetition and tell 3 stories that are each distinct and interconnected. Our protagonist Hiccup starts out as an awkward boy who can’t live up to the expectations of his father, grows into a confident warrior who can protect himself and his people, and eventually becomes a kind leader who puts the needs of his loved ones before his own. The strength of this character arc is rare to find in any movie series, and I propose it’s the boldest of its kind in the entire history of animated film. 

The storytelling of How to Train Your Dragon blazes new trails, but it’s the relationship between Hiccup and his dragon Toothless that warms our hearts and keeps us coming back for more. The way in which these 2 characters help each other find confidence and purpose in life gives the series one of the strongest emotional cores of any franchise. The duo’s exhilarating flying sequences are also better than most live action aerial displays, providing the series with an easy avenue for incredible action sequences that play out on grand scales. Don’t be fooled by typical animation, catering to a young audience and failing to create sequels that bring fresh ideas. How to Train Your Dragon is an epic, action-packed, heartfelt fantasy series meant for anyone who has yearned to become the person they felt they were meant to be.  

Watch Order: How to Train Your Dragon, How to Train Your Dragon 2, and How to Train Your Dragon 3: The Hidden World

What did you think of Part 7? Let me know in the comments below, and be on the lookout for Part 8 tomorrow!

Part 6 is filled with movies that defy age, from old classics, to relevant futuristic societies, to family-friendly fare that appeals to all ages.

51. Minority Report (2002)

The year is 2054, and the Washington D.C. police force is utilizing technology that allows them to stop murders before they happen and arrest would-be killers for pre-crime. When Chief John Anderton, head of the pre-crime division, is accused of pre-murder, he must go on the run in hopes of clearing his name. In many ways the movie’s vision of the future feels almost prophetic, with a depiction of privacy violations and commercialization of personal information that feels even more relevant now than it did back in 2002. Tom Cruise enthusiastically leads this sci fi mystery, full of action, twists, and questions about our existence. 

52. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

Despite how it may feel sometimes, institutional complacency and government corruption are not new concepts, as evidenced by 1939’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. When an active US Senator unexpectedly dies, do-gooder Jefferson Smith (Jimmy Stewart) is appointed to fill the seat. With no prior political experience, Smith heads to DC full of optimism, but he soon learns that government often doesn’t function as it should. Stewart carries the film wonderfully, exhibiting the optimism and steadfastness of a young man who is committed to doing what is right, even in the face of the most bleak circumstances. If you’re in need of a rousing feature that will restore your faith in humanity, this is the movie for you. 

53. Mulan (1998)

This list has already covered 3 movies from Disney animation’s renaissance period, so why include a 4th? What does Mulan accomplish that the others don’t? True, Mulan’s visuals, songs, and entertainment value reach the (high) bar set by its predecessors without exceeding it, but this is one of the few Disney movies where the main character is also the best character. Mulan still boasts the great side characters that we associate with Disney, but Mulan’s strength, resolve, and humility stand front and center, enwrapping us in her journey from beginning to end. When our protagonist takes her father’s place in the military draft and heads to war, she is neither overly extraordinary nor dependent on a man. Her choice to leave home is exceedingly brave because of women’s exclusion from ancient Chinese military, but she doesn’t accomplish great things just because she’s a woman; she changed history because of who she is inside and who she chose to be, regardless of gender. And that, to me, is a character worth celebrating.

54. The Muppets (2011)

The once-huge muppet brand lay relatively dormant for more than a decade until 2011’s The Muppets burst on to the scene in what I believe is one of the best iterations yet. We follow young muppet Walter, super-fan of Kermit and the gang and adopted brother of human Gary. These 2, along with Gary’s girlfriend Mary, set out to bring the muppets back together and save Muppet Studios. The Muppets perfects the meta humor style of past muppet movies, full of gags, celebrity cameos, and one of the funniest songs I’ve ever heard: Man or Muppet. Walter’s outsider perspective is also very sweet and self-referential, as he introduces a new generation of moviegoers to our favorite furry friends, but also reminds the older generation of what made the muppets so special in the first place.

55. National Treasure (2004)

Following in a long line of adventure movies that play with history, National Treasure is one of the most fun entries in the genre. Historian Ben Gates (Nic Cage) follows in the footsteps of his grandfather and searches for a bounty of treasure that’s just as rich in historical significance as it is in gold and jewels. He and his friend/tech genius Riley discover a real clue to the treasure for the first time in generations, but so do a greedy group of mercenaries, so the race is on to find the treasure and preserve its long-lost history. Cage gives one of his most memorable performances as the headstrong Ben Gates, bringing just the right amount of fun, believability, and charisma. This movie is more interested in fun and adventure than crafting a believable wrinkle in history, so don’t take the premise too seriously, and I bet you’ll have a great time with this overlooked gem. Did I mention it’s fun? It’s fun. 

56. North by Northwest (1959)

Hitchcock typically spends his time in the genres of horror and psychological dramas, so why not mix things up and make one of the best spy thrillers of all time in North by Northwest? Marketing guru Roger Thornhill’s (Carey Grant) ordinary day takes a major turn when he’s kidnapped by foreign spies who refer to him as George Kaplan. Thornhill escapes the spies and embarks on a journey to find out who this George Kaplan is. This movie has a little something for everyone: espionage, mystery, tension, and romance, all bundled in a tale that turns the spy genre on its head. Sharp writing, great direction, and terrific performances from Grant and Eva Marie Saint are all inconspicuous presences in Hitchcock’s stone-cold classic. 

57. On the Waterfront (1954)

For years I heard the line “I could’ve had class. I could’ve been a contender.” but I didn’t actually watch On the Waterfront until about a year ago, and I’m here to say that a single quote could never do this movie justice. Marlon Brando delivers my favorite performance of his as wayward Terry Malloy, kid brother to an ascending member of the Boston mob, looking to make a quick buck at the docks. When Terry finds himself partially responsible for a mob-led murder, he must decide between doing what’s expedient and what’s right. Boasting smart dialogue that feels authentic and one of the best endings I’ve ever seen, On the Waterfront is indeed a contender; contender for one of my favorite movies of all time.

58. Paddington (2014)

Based on the acclaimed book series, Paddington is a rare combination of charm, style and wit that plays to audiences of all ages. The titular Paddington is a talking bear who travels from “darkest Peru” to London and is taken in by the Brown family. This feel-good comedy includes characters that are as colorful as the mesmerizing set design, all of which capture the kind and pure heart of Paddington himself. With strong themes of facing your fears and realizing who your family truly is, Paddington will leave you with a smile on your face and a pep in your step. 

59. Pinocchio (1940)

The quintessential Disney classic, Pinocchio tells the didactic tale of a puppet come to life and his quest to shed his wooden shell and become a real boy. Jimmy Cricket marks the beginning of a long line of lovable Disney side characters that serve as mentors for our heroes, with this talkative little critter literally standing in for Pinocchio’s conscience. Don’t let its sweet main characters fool you; Pinocchio is a movie that’s not afraid to get weird, with a twisted amusement park and massive whale that both gave me nightmares as a kid. Tonally balanced, smartly constructed, and elevated by the song that became the company’s familiar theme (When You Wish Upon a Star), Pinocchio is a movie that’s completely unencumbered by the strings of time. 

60. Franchise Spotlight: Planet of the Apes prequel trilogy

“Apes together strong!” Caesar, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Many a profitable film franchise has tried to reinvent itself by telling stories that take place before the main storyline, to the point where we coined the phrase “prequel.” Though frequently attempted, very few prequels have been well-received by critics and audiences, and, in my opinion, none of them got it right until the 2010s Planet of the Apes trilogy. 

Before Charlton Heston discovered a planet inhabited by talking apes, this trilogy shows us how apes began to speak and act like humans and how humanity became nearly extinct, all through the eyes of ape-leader Caesar. Though impressive at the time, the 1960s face masks would not suffice to portray these talking monkeys, and instead we get incredibly lifelike motion capture performances, headlined by Andy Serkis, who did previous mo cap work as Gollum in the Lord of the Rings movies. Motion capture technology changed the film industry and blurred the lines between animation and human performance. Questions regarding mo cap performances are still happening today.

This trilogy could have easily fallen into the standard prequel traps, relying too heavily on what came before it and not creating its own unique story. But instead these modern Planet of the Apes movies create new characters that take us on an epic and somber quest to discover what it means to be a leader of men (or apes). It has interesting sci fi themes and exciting action scenes, sure, but what really makes this trilogy shine is the way in which we connect with a CGI monkey, and it feels so weird to type that, but give this trilogy a try, and I think you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.

Watch Order: Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and War for the Planet of the Apes

What did you think of Part 6? Let me know in the comments below, and be on the lookout for part 7 tomorrow!

We have now reached the midpoint of this list, and subsequently the middle of the alphabet. Hence the very original title. I’ll do better next time, Scout’s honor.

41. Leave No Trace (2018)

Leave No Trace tracks the lives of a father and his daughter living off the grid in a serene Oregon state park. When they are forced to leave their home, the movie examines the reasons why they abandoned conventional society and their attempts to reenter it. Leave No Trace is important because of its subject material, but it works as a movie thanks to the remarkable performances from its 2 leads: Ben Foster and Thomasin MacKenzie. A deep exploration of familial bonds, coping with tragedy, and accepting change, this film takes us on a journey beyond our comfort zone to a place of sympathy and healing. 

42. The Lego Movie (2014)

When an animated movie is released that is based on a popular toy line, one would assume that it will serve as a cash grab that mildly entertains children, but nothing more. No such laziness can be found in The Lego Movie. In fact, it’s bursting at the seams with creativity. This movie refreshes the conventional hero’s journey with ingenious worldbuilding, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a surprisingly great twist. Every-Lego-man Emmitt (Christ Pratt) leads our colorful cast of characters as they race to stop Lord Business from unleashing the Kragle upon their world. Don’t be turned off by the built-in marketing, and give this uproariously funny and uncompromisingly optimistic movie a watch.

43. Les Miserables (2012)

When adapting a broadway musical, the question is always, should it be faithful to the source material, or should it tell the story in a way that is entirely cinematic? 2012’s Les Miserables deftly toes the line between the two, capturing both the massive scope of the narrative and the intimate emotions of the characters. Though the vocal chops of the cast varies, the performances are all on key, with Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, and Samantha Barks standing out above the rest. The on-set live singing, production design, and visual flair all add to this movie-stage hybrid, which, in my opinion, makes for a must-see experience. 

44. The Little Mermaid (1989)

Allow me to briefly depart from the typical alphabetical ordering, as we begin a twin-bill of the Disney Renaissance with the movie that started it all: The Little Mermaid. On the brink of financial ruin, Disney Animation discovered a style that would breath new life into their features: taking the framework of past hits and filling it out with the musical and emotional frills of Broadway. The Little Mermaid pays off this idea immediately, with unforgettable songs, screen-stealing side characters, and an ageless tale of self-discovery. We rightfully revere The Little Mermaid for its place in cinematic history, but we should recognize it as the great, individual movie that it is. 

45. The Lion King (1994)

The Little Mermaid is the beginning, but The Lion King is the best. As the sun raises high over the Pridelands, so does Simba, heir to the animal kingdom, son of the noble Mufasa, and nephew to the sinister Scar. The Lion King’s narrative was a game changer, packing an adult story into the simple and colorful confines of a classic Disney tale, but the best thing about this film is that there’s no one “best thing.” The incredible animation, the hit songs, the moments of sadness, and the moments of whimsy are all incredible, but they’re seamlessly blended in such a way that none of them stand out. All of them come together to form this incredible synergy, this singular unit that stands out as one of the best pieces of filmmaking that we’ve ever seen. 

46. M (1931)

The father of the psychological thriller, M is the groundbreaking story of a small German town’s determination to capture an unknown figure who is abducting and murdering their children. Don’t worry, it’s not as dark as the premise may suggest, and it’s certainly not violent, but it is a movie that was far ahead of its time. This film takes on difficult moral and social questions, the likes of which we often discuss today but were rarely seen in movies before this point (and not frequently until the 1960s). Even the way that this movie is shot and edited feels shockingly modern. Thrilling, chilling, and timeless, M is a masterpiece, even by today’s standards. 

47. Mary Poppins (1964)

“Practically perfect in every way.” Though maybe a bit of an overstatement for Mary Poppins, it is certainly one of the most influential and best children’s movies ever made. The best part of this film is the titular character herself, a magical nanny summoned to take care of the wayward Banks children. This threesome plus the lovable Burt are whisked away on daily adventures that teach the children life lessons along the way. Over time we learn that Mary isn’t just there to instruct the children, but the entire Banks family, as they all learn that sometimes the best action you can take in life is enjoying life itself.

48. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

One of a long line of seafaring adventures that didn’t make much money at the box office, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World is a naval voyage that is well worth discovering. We sail with Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe), a wild and determined leader of men who tests his crew’s limits in pursuit of a famed French war vessel. This cerebral adventure has such an authenticity to it, from the grueling life depicted on actual wooden ships, to the visceral action scenes, to the hard decisions made by the captain and crew. Crowe counterbalances this tone with his bravado and charm, creating a grounded yet exciting experience that is sure to put wind in your sails. 

49. Millennium Actress (2001)

For the second time on this post, I broke a self-imposed rule, as a still image was unable to capture the engrossing surrealism of Millennium Actress. An enthusiastic documentarian and his cameraman travel to the home of a famous actress who hasn’t been seen in nearly 30 years. What starts out as a normal interview transforms into a visual recreation of the life of the actress, from the point of view of scenes from the actress’s movies, her personal memory, the documentarian’s memory, and the cameraman’s interpretation of all of this. Sound confusing? It probably should have been, but director Satoshi Kon seamlessly weaves these perspectives into one and crafts both a unique cinematic experience and a deeply profound story.

50. Franchise Spotlight: The Marvel Cinematic Universe- Phase 3

“We lost a part of ourselves. Today we have a chance to take it all back…. No mistakes, no do-overs…. This is the fight of our lives, and we’re gonna win. Whatever it takes.” Steve Rogers, Avengers: Endgame 

Marvel made an unspoken promise to its fans way back in 2012: The Avengers is just the beginning. We will create a vast comic book world with scope and stakes the likes of which a movie screen has never seen. Thanos is coming. 

The MCU made good on that promise with Phase 3 in their shared universe, both expanding and coalescing this world with more diverse characters, more daunting villains, and the culmination of a storyline that traces all the way back to the beginning. The first Infinity Stone was introduced in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger, and 14 movies later, the race to collect all 6 stones begins. 

Most comic book movies threaten world-changing implications if the worst happens, but never follow through. Most prop their villain up as this undefeatable being, only to be easily handled in the third act. Marvel had the boldness to follow through on these promises, shaking our heroes to their very core and challenging them to work together to right their wrongs. What the MCU set out to do was ambitious, but a lot of movie studios have big plans. Ambition is only as good as its execution, and in the MCU’s Phase 3, its execution is as good as it gets. Part of the journey is the end, and yes, Phase 3 is the end of Marvel’s Infinity Saga, but this may only be the beginning of the vast and imaginative comic book world that we have grown to know and love.  

Watch Order: Captain America: Civil War, Doctor Strange, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, Ant-Man & The Wasp, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, and Spider-Man: Far From Home

What did you think of part 5? Let me know in the comments below, and be on the lookout for part 6 tomorrow!

As fate would have it, most of the movies in this segment are massively influential blockbusters. Here’s to hoping all of my weird indie picks don’t come in bunches as well.

31. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)

They say you can’t run away from your problems, but a tenacious teen and his foster uncle decide to put this theory to the test in Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Before he directed Thor: Ragnarok or won an Oscar for Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi brought his unruly sense of humor to this outdoor adventure that takes place in his home country of New Zealand. Young Ricky and his guardian Hector (Sam Neill) make for one of the best odd couples in recent memory. Unpredictable and hilarious, but never losing track of its hard-hitting emotional themes, Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a movie worth getting lost in. 

32. Inception (2010)

The general moviegoing audience was already well acquainted with director Christopher Nolan’s work within the realm of comic book movies, but it wasn’t until his revolutionary sci fi blockbuster Inception that the world recognized him as one of the best original filmmakers we have ever seen. Inception builds a heist movie around the concept of one person’s consciousness entering another’s while both parties are asleep. This dream-altering world serves as the perfect medium for Nolan’s seemingly-unlimited imagination, giving us the immersive, spectacle-filled experience that we now come to expect from the famed director. Its unrelenting pace and enthralling mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. 

*Bonus: Did you know Inception wasn’t a wholly original idea? 

33. Interstellar (2014)

Space has been called the final frontier, and in Interstellar it may soon be the only frontier. Set in a near future when planet earth is quickly deteriorating, engineer Joseph Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) is called upon to take to the stars and find a new home for humanity. This is a massively ambitious film in every sense of the word, boasting grand visuals, tension-fueled set pieces, and a story that spans the galaxy as we know it and beyond. McConaughey brilliantly portrays the conflicted astronaut, constantly second-guessing his own decisions and trying desperately to do the right thing. Though not a perfect movie, Interstellar aims to go where no film has gone before, and in many respects, it succeeds. 

34. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

You know it’s gonna be a feel-good movie when even the title makes you feel all warm inside, but It’s a Wonderful Life isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. This movie takes us through the gauntlet of life, from young love, to big hopes and dreams, to the reality of the difficulty of our goals, eventually leading us to George Bailey’s (Jimmy Stewart) midlife crisis and the memorable third act. This is THE Jimmy Stewart role, putting the movie on his shoulders and elevating it from good to unforgettable. His genuine optimism and steadfastness make it all the more devastating when life finally deals him a blow from which he thinks he can’t recover. Though often regarded as a Christmas movie, this is a great flick to watch, anytime, anywhere, for anyone. 

35. Jaws (1975)

Daaaa na. Daaaa na. Danadanadanadana. Just this short bit of music from Jaws is enough to give 70s and 80s kids goosebumps. Moviegoers were so drawn to the delightful frights of this beachside thriller that its success coined a new phrase: the blockbuster. Arguably the best example of tension-building ever found in movies, Jaws showed us that the fear of the unknown is greater than that of any underwater beast. The mystery of the shark attacks on Amity Island gives way to a surprisingly great political conflict between the local sheriff’s department and the town’s mayor, and the 2nd half transitions to an action-horror voyage as the men of the town try to stop the shark once and for all. Give this classic a go, but maybe wait until after beach season. 

36. Jurassic Park (1993)

Standing in long line after long line, I’ve often wished that amusement parks were more exciting, and so did Dr. Hammond and the fictitious creators of Jurassic Park. Set on an island with real-live dinosaurs, created from ancient genetic material, Dr. Hammond recruits several experts, including paleontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern), to examine the validity of the park. The movie smartly spends nearly an hour fleshing out its premise, punctuated by Dr. Ian Malcolm’s famous line, “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.” Then several of the dinosaurs break loose from their enclosures, giving us plenty of adventure, scares, and revolutionary CGI. This classic Spielburg feature may be nearly 30 years old, but its thrills are far from extinct.

37. Knives Out (2019)

Typically, the best part of a who-done-it mystery is finding out who committed the murder, but Knives Out breaks down that genre convention, showing you right off the bat how the victim died. Detective Benoit Blanc arrives on the scene, investigating the wealthy Thrombey family and their at-home nurse, Marta Cabrera (Ana de Armas). We the audience feel an entirely different kind of tension as we wait for the guilty party to slip up and give themselves away. Led by an incredible ensemble cast and a witty, funny script, Knives Out is a murder mystery game changer. 

38. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)

If I was stuck on a desert island with 1 tv that produced no sound and 1 movie of my choosing, I would pick Kubo and the Two Strings. I’m not exaggerating when I say nearly every frame is a piece of art. Before writing this post, I considered taking a couple dozen screenshots from the movie, putting them to the right of that Will Smith “look at this” meme, and leaving it at that. It really did redefine what was possible with stop motion animation, but to limit its accomplishments to its visuals would be tragic. A sprawling epic that puts most live action fantasies to shame, we follow young Kubo, a talking monkey, and a beetle-man as they must stop a vengeful spirit that was inadvertently unleashed upon the world. Brimming with creativity and heart, this oft-overlooked masterpiece is a must-add to your watchlist.  

39. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

From one stunning epic to another, Lawrence of Arabia tells the tale of the peculiar soldier T.E. Lawrence and his quest to find meaning as he leads British forces during World War I in the Middle East. Peter O’Toole gives us one of the greatest performances of all time as the titular Lawrence, a man that everyone agrees is brilliant but no one can understand, maybe not even Lawrence himself. The film boasts sweeping desert vistas as big as the story itself, but the film is much more interested in its characters than grandeur or action-heavy set pieces, and it’s all the better for it. 

40. Franchise Spotlight: Harry Potter

“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, when one only remembers to turn on the light.” Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban 

The story of the boy who lived has garnered worldwide acclaim and adoration, viewed as one of the most beloved book series ever, from start to finish. The key word there is “finish,” because way back in 2000, Warner Brothers Studio began adapting these books into movies without knowing how author JK Rowling would end her series. To me, that’s a scary prospect. So much would depend on those early casting decisions, and even then, I would have to be extremely flexible to accommodate for whatever story the source material would provide. 

And accommodate they did. Through 3 director changes, multiple tone shifts, and numerous recastings, Warner Brothers pulled off the near-impossible and concluded their decade-long project with 8 movies, all of which work together, and each of which is considered to be at least good, if not spectacular.

These movies took my favorite elements from the book series (Hogwarts, feats of magic, my favorite characters, and the entire wizarding world) and brought them to life in a way that I didn’t think was possible. But what brings me true joy, what I can’t really get from the books, is to see 3 young people grow up before our very eyes, to really see the year-by-year progression of Harry, Ron, and Hermoine as they transition from children to adults. If you haven’t read the books, do that first, but after that, immerse yourself in these extraordinary and truly magical movies. 

Watch Order: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

What did you think of Part 4? Let me know in the comments below! Part 5 coming at you tomorrow!

Whether you want to laugh, cry, or turn your brain off and have a good time, Part 3 has a little something for everyone.

21. Finding Neverland (2004)

We’ve all heard the tale of the boy who never grew up, but Finding Neverland tells us the story of Peter Pan’s author and his youthful spirit. Struggling playwright J.M. Barrie seeks inspiration at a local park and meets a single mother with 4 sons, including, you guessed it, a boy named Peter. From Barrie’s immature optimism and young Peter’s determination to grow up in a hurry blossoms an unlikely bond that teaches the adult just as much as the child. With all due respect to Mr. Wonka, it’s the heart and soul of this movie that captures “pure imagination.”

22. First Man (2018)

Before one small step for man came several hurdles, stumbles, and painful falls for famed astronaut Neil Armstrong, as portrayed in First Man. This is not your typical “rah rah, go America!” space movie, choosing instead to focus on Armstrong’s incredibly difficult path to Apollo 11, both in the launch’s preparation and in his personal life. Ryan Gosling’s performance as the reserved astronaut can be challenging, but stick with it, and you’ll never see the moon landing the same way again. 

23. Forrest Gump (1994)

Slice me off a piece of optimism, burn the calories with a run through Americana, and soak my feet in the pool of perseverance, because it’s time to talk about Forrest Gump. Tom Hanks turns in his definitive performance as he carries us through Gump’s life, from adolescence to adulthood. Throughout Forrest’s life he’s told he can’t do anything, and yet he ends up doing everything, simply because he believes that he can and he should. The movie is humorous, epic in scope, and emotional, but it’s the protagonist’s unwavering determination that stands the tallest.  

24. Galaxy Quest (1999)

It’s kind of wild how prophetic Galaxy Quest was way back in 1999. This hilarious Star Trek parody catches up with the cast of the titular “Galaxy Quest” years after the sci fi tv show ended. Now stuck attending conventions and starring in commercials, the cast wonders where their promising careers went. Suddenly, they are swept up by an alien race and embark on a real galactic adventure. The cast is pitch perfect, the humor and action are on point, and the movie not only pokes fun at nerd culture, but it gives a strong voice to it as well. 

25. Gone with the Wind (1939)

The epic to begin and end all epics, Gone with the Wind changed our perspective on the scope of movies, both in storytelling and in spectacle. Scarlett O’Hara serves as our guide through the perils of life in the American South during and after the Civil War. Sprawling vistas, melodramatic love stories, and flowery dialogue abound as Scarlett scraps and claws to build the life that she always assumed would be handed to her. The film may give us an overly sympathetic view of the lives of Confederates during the war, but to focus on that is to miss the point of the film, which skillfully dissects the trials of life and how they reveal who we really are. 

26. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

This is the hardest recommendation on this list. Not because Grave of the Fireflies isn’t great, because it is, but because it’s the most heart-wrenching movie I’ve ever seen. We follow teen Seita and his young sister Setsuko on their quest to find a home during the catastrophes in Japan during World War II. The examination of wartime collateral damage through the eyes of these children and the subsequent, difficult decisions that have to be made by them and the people around them is poignant and perspective-altering. Much like Schindler’s List or The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, this is not a movie that was created to be enjoyed, but you should nonetheless watch it at least once. 

27. Groundhog Day (1993)

The movie that popularized the 1-day loop trope, Groundhog Day is much more than a gimmicky premise. Bill Murray dials his trademark sarcasm and wry humor up to 11 in his portrayal of disgruntled weatherman Phil Connors, tasked with providing live coverage of the groundhog reveal on the big day. After the event, he gets snowed in, finds a hotel, and wakes up the next morning, only to discover that he is reliving the day before. My personal favorite rom com, with a great message to boot, you’ll want to watch this one over, and over, and over, and over… 

28. Holes (2003)

You’d be forgiven if you thought that Holes was just another generic teen flick pumped out by the Disney machine, but you’d also be sorely mistaken. Plagued by a generations-long streak of bad luck, Stanley Yelnats IV finds himself in a one-of-a-kind correctional facility: a camp in the middle of the desert where all the delinquents do is dig holes. Part bizarre mystery, part Twain-esque adventure, the movie weaves together numerous side plots and flashbacks with ease thanks to sharp writing and deft direction. Credit must also be given to its likable cast, impressive set production, and killer soundtrack, as all of these elements come together to create an enjoyable romp for all ages. 

29. The Hunt for Red October (1990)

Spy thrills and underwater escapades take center stage as Alec Baldwin and Sean Connery face off in The Hunt for Red October. More fun than most political thrillers, and more thoughtful than most action-heavy fare, we see Connery’s Captain Ramius, head of a Russian submarine, defy military orders and head straight for the United States, and it’s agent Jack Ryan’s (Baldwin) job to get to the bottom of it. Moody, subversive, and impeccably crafted, Red October is an exciting ride from start to finish. 

30. Franchise Spotlight: The Marvel Cinematic Universe- Phase 2

Tony Stark: “A hostile alien army came charging through a hole in space. We’re standing 300 feet below it. We’re the Avengers. We can bust arms dealers all the live long day, but that up there? That’s the endgame. How were you guys planning on beating that?”

Steve Rogers: “Together.”

Tony Stark: “We’ll lose.”

Steve Rogers: “Then we’ll do that together too.” 

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Coming off the high of The Avengers and the end of Phase 1 of their shared universe plan, Disney’s Marvel once again looked to take big swings, but this time around, they would tackle a much different kind of risk.  

Phase 1 was a gamble due to the concept of the shared universe itself: the format, construction, and payoff. Phase 2’s risks lay in the individual films; the stories they were willing to tell, and the characters with which they were going to do it. They took good boy Captain America and put him in a morally gray political thriller. They took Iron Man, leader of this MCU, and broke the character down to his core. Who before 2014 had heard of the Guardians of the Galaxy, and who would’ve greenlit a comic book blockbuster with a walking tree and a pyro raccoon? 

What may have looked like unnecessary risks at the time kept the Marvel formula from getting stale and repetitive, and it brought about the diverse and colorful MCU that we enjoy today. Sure, there were some bumps along the way. Iron Man 3 has been all-but retconned, and Age of Ultron was a letdown for many. But it’s the willingness to try something new that has sustained this intricate concept for so long, and for every miss, there is a trilogy’s worth of hits. So check out the wide array of characters and subgenres that the MCU Phase 2 has to offer, and I bet you’ll find something that speaks to you. 

Watch Order: Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and Ant-Man

That concludes Part 3 of the list! Let me know what you thought in the comments below, and be on the lookout for Part 4 tomorrow!

Ah yes, the first of many planned sequels. Hopefully my $0 budget can sustain us through the end of the list…

11. Cast Away (2000)

Self-isolating before it was cool, Tom Hanks stars in the definitive entry in the niche subgenre of person-stranded-alone movies. The film doesn’t stop at exploring the physical and mental tolls of being isolated on a desert island; it makes a concerted effort to remind us of the simple joys in life. We’re entertained by Hank’s ingenious survival skills, but we’re emotionally invested in his highs and lows that, if we’re being honest, we all feel in our everyday lives, just to a less heightened degree. 

12. Citizen Kane (1941)

It’s been called “the greatest movie of all time,” “the most influential movie ever,” and “a must-watch for all aspiring filmmakers,” but don’t let such lofty labels scare you off from a movie that is altogether accessible. Citizen Kane follows its titular character, Charles Foster Kane, through his life, from modest beginnings to a newspaper emperor. Orson Welles commands the screen and breaths life into a man full of pride, greed, and *maybe some regret?*. Oh, and the camera techniques and novel editing choices broke new cinematic ground, if you care about that sort of thing.

13. The Dark Knight (2008)

If Batman Begins perfected the comic book movie, then The Dark Knight transcended it. More of a crime thriller than a conventional “beat up the bad guy” plot, we follow the most iconic comic book villain of all time, Heath Ledger’s Joker, on his quest to destroy Gotham’s two symbols of peace: Batman and district attorney Harvey Dent. The insane cat-and-mouse game causes both our heroes and we the audience to ask, what motivates us to true heroism? Thrilling, scary, and thought-provoking, The Dark Knight will stay with you long after the credits roll. 

14. Dunkirk (2017)

When I think of the first time I saw Dunkirk, one word comes to mind: visceral. I wasn’t just watching someone run from a bomb raid, I was running. I wasn’t just watching a dog fight, I was in the cockpit. This World War II epic follows nameless soldiers in 3 different settings as they all work together in attempt to evacuate nearly 400,000 men trapped on the beach of Dunkirk. The increasingly claustrophobic setting and a musical score that evokes the ticking of a watch provide a true sense of terror and urgency that help us empathize with the plight of our protagonists. Come for the triumph in filmmaking, stay for the triumph of the human spirit. 

15. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Edge of Tomorrow feels like a movie that should have been a huge success, that should have blown up the box office, but it wasn’t, and didn’t. Due to a poor marketing campaign and odd premise, many skipped this sci fi action thrill ride, and it’s a crying shame. We follow Major William Cage (Tom Cruise), a victim of circumstance who finds himself reliving the same day over and over again. Oh, and that day just so happens to be a full-blown alien invasion. Cruise and Emily Blunt lead a bombastic, witty, and surprisingly funny adventure as they seek to reverse their fortunes and stop the alien takeover. If my description sounds like an amalgamation of several things you’ve seen before, it is, but the execution is so fresh and enjoyable that it becomes something that is entirely its own thing.

16. Elf (2003)

Christmas comedies come in all shapes and sizes, this one being in the form of a 6 foot three man child, and it might just be the funniest of them all. Elf follows Buddy (Will Ferrell), a human raised by North Pole elves, now on a quest to find his real father. The sheer number of jokes and gags makes for an easy annual rewatch, and Will Ferrell was born to play the immature, optimistic, and oh-so-loveable man-elf. The third act’s conventional tugs at the heartstrings also play surprisingly well, reminding us to treat every day like Christmas. 

17. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

Ah, Wes Anderson. The local bookshop of movie directors. His obsession with symmetry, oddball characters, and meta humor are all woven together to create a delightfully eclectic style, and in Fantastic Mr. Fox, Anderson finds the perfect medium for his sensibilities: stop-motion animation. Focusing on a collection of anthropomorphized creatures, led by the titular Mr. Fox, the film takes a much more mature approach to the tried and true theme of “being true to yourself,” as a father, mother, and son navigate personal and relational identity crises. Half comedy, half storybook adventure, Fantastic Mr. Fox is sure to unleash the (civilized) beast within.

18. The Farewell (2019)

Coming together as a family can be tough, but doing so with family that lives on the other side of the globe proves to be a herculean task in The Farewell. Young New Yorker Billi (Awkwafina) finds herself in a conflict of culture clash when the rest of her family refuses to tell her grandmother that she (the grandma) has terminal cancer, as is customary in China. This touching dramedy follows Billi’s journey to China and her attempts to say goodbye without saying, well, goodbye. It’ll make you think, it’ll make you laugh, and it might even make you shed a tear.

19. Finding Nemo (2003)

*Jerry Seinfeld voice* What’s the deal with Pixar and helping someone find his way back home? First Buzz in Toy Story, then Boo in Monsters, Inc., and now Nemo in Finding Nemo. Still the funniest Pixar movie to date, clownfish Marlin and his friend Dory race across the ocean to find Marlin’s son Nemo, who was taken by reef divers. Though it may not seem like it by today’s standards, Finding Nemo’s water scenery was revolutionary in the early days of digital animation, cementing Pixar as the premiere animation studio. Is it a comedy, a touching father-son story, or a buddy road trip flick? Yes, yes, and yes. 

20. Franchise Spotlight: The Star Wars Original Trilogy

“For over a thousand generations, the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace in the Old Republic. Before the dark times, before the Empire.” Obi Wan Kenobi, Star Wars: a New Hope (1977)

From an independent film to an overnight sensation, Star Wars has captured the imagination of every generation since its release in 1977. But what is it about Star Wars that makes it special? Why has it endured?

It certainly doesn’t break new ground story-wise. The hero’s journey dates back to at least Greek mythology. Ideas of a unifying force and its balance have been around in Eastern philosophy for even longer. It has revolutionary special effects, but so have other films before and after it. The creative sci fi world draws inspiration from Buck Rogers and others. And likable heroes and evil villains certainly weren’t novel storytelling concepts. 

Maybe it’s not one of these elements, but all of them packaged together in a way that brings out our child-like wonder and sense of adventure. Maybe mixing together all of the borrowed elements, like ingredients in a master chef’s recipe, combined to bring us something brand new. Whatever the reasons may be, these 3 films will always hold a special place in my movie-loving heart. 

Watch Order: Star Wars: A New Hope, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

Thanks for reading! Do you have any thoughts on the list so far? Comment below! Part 3 of the list will be up around this time tomorrow. Until then, may the force be with you.

Let’s dive right in to the beginning of this list, which, ironically enough, includes several movies that mark the start of trends that are still prevalent in filmmaking today.

1. 12 Angry Men (1957)

Don’t let its now-oft-homaged plot dissuade you; even if you know 12 Angry Men’s destination, you should still watch this film for its riveting journey. The tension created by the single-location setting brilliantly unravels not only the case at hand, but the inner conflicts that each man brings into the jury room. With terrific performances all around, headlined by Henry Fonda’s career-defining turn, this movie earns its “classic” status and then some. 

2. Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin possesses all of the trappings that we’ve come to expect from Disney animation’s best: stunning visuals, delightfully menacing villains, catchy tunes, and a heart-warming story. But what sets this movie apart is the genre-altering performance from Robin Williams, prompting nearly all later animated features to include Hollywood A-listers for both their talent and their promotional appeal. Rarely will you come across a movie this funny AND heartfelt. We ain’t never had a friend like you, Genie.

3. Arrival (2016)

Arrival could have easily relied upon its ace-in-the-hole ending, and it still would’ve been a great movie. However, this modern sci fi classic aims for something much deeper and more significant, and in my humble opinion, it hits the bullseye. The mystery of the premise gets the story off the ground, but it’s the themes of fear, understanding, and the value of life that make this movie soar. Amy Adams is both understated and earnest, turning in one of my favorite performances of the past decade. I’ll leave it at that, because with a film like Arrival, the less you know going in, the better. 

4. Avatar (2009)

Never has a movie been through the rollercoaster that 2009’s Avatar endured. From James Cameron’s passion project, to a worldwide phenomenon, to “Fern Gully with blue people,” everyone seems to have a strong opinion on this film. Both the positive and negative positions include grains of truth, but in the end, this film changed the movie-going experience forever. Admittedly, the plot is recycled, and the characters are nothing more than serviceable, but the creativity found in the world of Pandora is truly special, and its use of both CGI and the 3-D experience have influenced nearly every blockbuster to come after it. 

5. Back to the Future (1985)

There may not be a better example of the pure entertainment power of the movies than Back to the Future. Marty McFly’s attainably cool persona is perfectly paired with the loveably manic Doc Brown. I could list all of the movie’s iconic elements that permeate pop culture, from “Great Scott!”, to the DeLorean, to shredding Johnny B Goode on a cherry red guitar, but it’s the movie’s infectious energy and tongue-in-cheek humor that creates such a memorable experience. Jaws founded the blockbuster, but Back to the Future showed that a fun time at the movies can be exactly that: fun. 

6. Batman Begins (2005)

Every hero has a beginning, and Christopher Nolan’s origin story marks not only the start of his Batman iteration, but of comic book movies as we know them today. Nolan crafted a world that still includes all of the hallmarks of the genre, and yet it’s grounded enough to feel as though it could really exist. More so than later entries, this is an entirely Batman-centric movie, as Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne is forced to confront the fears that plague his past and present. Through the seedy depiction of Gotham and its inhabitants emerges a tale of inspiration, marked by Thomas Wayne’s famous quote, “Why do we fall, Bruce? So that we can learn to pick ourselves up.” 

7. The Birds (1963)

The Birds may not be remembered with the best of Alfred Hitchcock’s filmography, but it may very well be the famed director’s masterclass in building tension. As the unassuming town of Bodega Bay slowly descends into fear and madness, we too hold our breath and tighten our knuckles as the frightening events unfold. The looming threat literally swirls around our protagonists as Hitchcock unmercifully plays with the dread of the unknown, and the threat builds like a billowing storm cloud. If you’re looking for a scary night in but are sick of contemporary horror clichés, The Birds is the movie for you.

8. Brigsby Bear (2017)

 Many films earn the term “quirky” by trying too hard to be different, too hard to appeal to an ostracized crowd. That couldn’t be further from the truth with Brigsby Bear, though “quirky” is a fitting way to describe it. This story follows a young man named James and his quest to finish the story of his favorite tv show that was abruptly cancelled. A weird premise, I know, but this funny, optimistic, and inspirational tale takes us far beyond its oddities to a place of genuine joy and, for some, catharsis. Just like its protagonist, Brigsby Bear’s plucky attitude and unique charm may very well win you over. 

9. Casablanca (1942)

“Here’s looking at you, kid.” We’ve all heard the line, but this movie is so much more than a handful of quotes. Centered around a love torn apart by the hardships of World War II, we follow Humphrey Bogart’s Rick Blaine and his reluctant quest to find meaning in the conflict-neutral French Morocco. Filled with snappy, witty dialogue, and a story that unravels like a shirt caught on a nail, this old flick proves that CGI explosions are not the only means of captivating an audience’s attention. Lead by Bogart and the magnificent Ingrid Bergman, Casablanca is not only a romance for the ages, but a standard of storytelling to which all movies should aim.

10. Franchise Spotlight: The Marvel Cinematic Universe- Phase 1

“There was an idea… called The Avengers Initiative. The idea was to bring together a group of remarkable people to see if they could become something more; to see if they could work together when we needed them to, to fight the battles that we never could.” Nick Fury, The Avengers (2012)

If you were trusted with leading a cinematic venture, the likes of which we’ve never seen in size, scope, and spectacle, who would you hand pick as the leading star for the first movie, and who would direct? A recovering drug addict and the guy who made Elf, right? No? Well, that’s how Kevin Feige, producer and de facto “father” of the MCU, made 2008’s Iron Man. And you know what? It was GREAT. It established a grounded yet fun tone with quips, thrills, and colorful characters. This is the formula that the MCU still brings to every movie to this day. 

It may be easy to forget now that we see the fruits of their labor, but it took a great deal of risk to bring us the MCU that we enjoy today. The aforementioned Robert Downey Jr. was a virtual Hollywood outcast, and neither Chris Evans nor Chris Hemsworth were star actors at this point. But they lead their single-film origin stories with charisma and charm, and Feige seized the opportunity to bring all of this build-up to a head with 2012’s The Avengers. No one had ever done this: taken 3 tangential stories in the same “Universe” and bring them together for a massive team-up movie in a way that both makes sense and thrills audiences. Feige and director Joss Whedon didn’t just achieve this goal; they created a landmark film, the likes of which many have already tried to replicate, with no such success. 

Even if you’re not a comic book movie fan, I would encourage you to at least watch through the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase 1, because it’s a unique cinematic experience that you can’t get anywhere else, and who knows, maybe will never be done again. 

Watch Order: Iron Man, Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America: The First Avenger, and The Avengers 

So what did you think of the first ten? Let me know in the comments down below! If you liked this, be on the lookout for part 2 tomorrow!