1. American History X 1998，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0120586 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 American History X is a powerful film that delves into the world of neo-Nazism and racial hatred, led by an intense performance from Edward Norton. The movie follows the transformation of a former neo-Nazi leader, and despite its hard-hitting subject matter, some critics argue that it doesn’t fully contend with its themes. However, Norton’s performance gives this drama crucial weight, making it a significant piece of cinema.
2. Back to the Future 1985，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0088763 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Back to the Future is a beloved film that has stood the test of time, blending comedy and science fiction under the direction of Robert Zemeckis and the production of Steven Spielberg. Featuring memorable performances by Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover, and Thomas F. Wilson, the film is praised for its inventive plot, engaging humor, and breathless construction, making it a timeless classic.
3. Psycho 1960，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0054215 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’ is a groundbreaking masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. Its innovative storytelling, combined with Hitchcock’s masterful tension-building, makes it a must-watch for any film enthusiast. The well-developed characters and gripping plot keep you on the edge of your seat, ensuring a truly engaging experience.
4. Gladiator 2000，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0172495 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Gladiator, directed by Ridley Scott, is a cinematic spectacle that transports us back to the Roman Empire. Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Maximus, a general turned gladiator, is both powerful and compelling. The film’s action sequences are breathtaking, immersing the audience in the brutal world of gladiatorial combat.
5. The Pianist 2002，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0253474 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Pianist, directed by Roman Polanski, is a historical drama that leaves a deep impression. It tells the harrowing tale of Wladyslaw Szpilman, a Polish Jewish pianist during World War II. The film is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience, with Szpilman’s struggle for survival amidst the horrors of war being its central theme.
6. The Departed 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 7.3，ID: tt0407887 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Departed, directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, is a riveting exploration of duality and deception, featuring stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. The movie delves into the complex dynamics of public and private personas, offering a gritty and authentic portrayal of gangster drama. The engrossing narrative, well-developed characters, and plot twists keep you captivated, making it a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
7. Casablanca 1942，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0034583 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Casablanca, a timeless masterpiece, beautifully encapsulates the essence of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of war. The phenomenal performances by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman bring to life a love story that transcends the ordinary. Set against the turmoil of war, the film adds a layer of depth that makes it more than just a love story, highlighting themes of sacrifice for a greater cause that resonate even today.
8. The Green Mile 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0120689 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Green Mile, a film that transcends the ordinary, offers a profound exploration of human relationships and the supernatural. Its narrative, while lengthy, is filled with compelling characters and performances that leave a lasting impression. The film’s supernatural elements are presented in a spiritual context, adding depth to the story and its themes. However, despite its strengths, the film’s potential is somewhat undermined by its length and occasional reliance on simplistic notions.
9. Intouchables 2011，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt1675434 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Intouchables, a French film released in 2011, is a heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caretaker, a man from the suburbs. The film’s unique and honest portrayal of their relationship has garnered it much acclaim, making it one of the most popular movies in history.
10. Whiplash 2014，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt2582802 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Whiplash is a cinematic masterpiece that delves into the depths of artistic passion and the sacrifices one makes for perfection. The performances by Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons are electrifying, bringing to life the intense relationship between a young jazz drummer and his demanding teacher. The film’s exploration of ambition, obsession, and the pursuit of artistic excellence is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
11. The Prestige 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0482571 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Prestige, directed by the visionary Christopher Nolan, is a cinematic gem that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Its intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, challenges the audience at every step, making it a thrilling viewing experience. The performances by Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, and Michael Caine are commendable, adding depth to their complex characters.
12. The Dark Knight Rises 2012，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.8，ID: tt1345836 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Dark Knight Rises, the final installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, is a film that transcends the boundaries of the superhero genre. Its ambitious narrative and complex characters offer a cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
13. Alien 1979，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0078748 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Alien, directed by Ridley Scott, is a masterpiece of the sci-fi horror genre. Its chilling atmosphere and suspenseful pacing keep viewers on the edge of their seats, while Sigourney Weaver’s portrayal of Ripley adds depth and humanity to the film. Despite its release in 1979, Alien’s influence remains strong, and its popularity among audiences is undeniable. Its blend of science fiction, horror, and bleak poetry creates a unique cinematic experience that continues to captivate viewers.
14. Apocalypse Now 1979，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0078788 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Apocalypse Now’ is a haunting journey into the heart of darkness. The film, inspired by Joseph Conrad’s novel, explores the horror of war and the madness of a decorated hero, Kurtz. Despite its philosophical nature and lack of a clear message, the film’s popularity and critical acclaim have secured its place in cinema history.
15. The Great Dictator 1940，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 9.1，ID: tt0032553 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Charlie Chaplin’s ‘The Great Dictator’ is a timeless piece of cinema that stands tall in the annals of film history. Released in 1940, it was a daring satire that took aim at the monstrous figure of the era – Adolf Hitler. Chaplin’s dual role as a Jewish barber and the dictator Hynkel is a masterstroke of comedic performance, blending humor with poignant commentary on the political climate of the time. The film’s climax, a passionate speech advocating for democracy and freedom, is a cinematic moment of legendary proportions. Despite its age, ‘The Great Dictator’ remains a relevant and impactful film, a testament to Chaplin’s genius and the enduring power of cinema.
16. Das Leben der Anderen 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 9.1，ID: tt0405094 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Set in 1983 East Berlin, ‘Das Leben der Anderen’ is a riveting portrayal of life under the watchful eyes of the Stasi, the notorious secret police of East Germany. The film centers around Stasi officer Gerd Wiesler, who is assigned to spy on the famous playwright Georg Dreyman and his actress-lover Christa-Maria Sieland.
17. Nuovo Cinema Paradiso 1988，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0095765 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Nuovo Cinema Paradiso is a 1988 French-Italian coming-of-age drama film written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. The film centers on the friendship between a young boy and an aging projectionist who works at the titular movie theatre. With a score composed by Ennio Morricone and his son, Andrea, the film has been cited as one of the greatest films of all time and remains one of the most popular movies in history.
18. The Terminator 1984，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0088247 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Terminator, directed by James Cameron, is a timeless piece of cinema that has left an indelible mark on the Sci-fi/Action genre. Its innovative plot, revolving around a cyborg assassin sent from the future to alter the course of history, is as engaging today as it was in 1984. The relentless pace, coupled with impressive action sequences, makes for a thrilling viewing experience.
19. The Wolf of Wall Street 2013，IMDB Rating: 8.2，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0993846 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ is a film that leaves a lasting impression with its depiction of Jordan Belfort’s extravagant lifestyle and moral downfall. The movie provides a captivating, if somewhat controversial, exploration of greed and excess, with Leonardo DiCaprio delivering a powerhouse performance that brings charisma and depth to a morally dubious character.
19 Timeless Movies That Will Always Captivate Audiences
