Cinema has the unique power to entertain, inspire, and provoke thought. Movies influence culture, reflect societal changes, and reveal the human experience in ways that few other mediums can. For movie lovers, certain films become essential viewing not only because of their artistic merit but also due to their historical significance, impact on filmmaking, or enduring popularity.
This article highlights 10 movies that everyone should watch at least once in their lifetime. These are films that have left an indelible mark on audiences, critics, and the film industry globally.
Here are the Top 10 movies to watch at least once in your life
1. The Godfather (1972)
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, The Godfather is often hailed as one of the greatest films ever made. Centered on the Corleone crime family and the transformation of Michael Corleone from reluctant outsider to ruthless mafia boss, this film masterfully explores themes of power, loyalty, and family. It won multiple Oscars and was voted the “Greatest Movie of All Time” by readers of Empire magazine and others in numerous polls. The character Vito Corleone, portrayed by Marlon Brando, remains iconic in pop culture references across various media. Watching The Godfather offers insight into narrative structure, character development, and cinematic storytelling on a grand scale.
2. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
As voted by more than 250,000 readers of Empire magazine as the best film of all time, The Empire Strikes Back represents the pinnacle of the original Star Wars trilogy. Directed by Irvin Kershner, this sequel combines epic adventure with deeper character arcs and darker themes, setting a standard for future blockbuster filmmaking. The innovative special effects and compelling storytelling helped revolutionize the movie industry. Star Wars’ immense cultural footprint makes this a must-watch for understanding the blockbuster genre and fan culture
3. Pulp Fiction (1994)
This Quentin Tarantino classic is critically acclaimed for its nonlinear storytelling and memorable dialogues. It revitalized independent cinema in the 1990s and influenced countless filmmakers. Pulp Fiction’s mix of dark humor, crime drama, and pop culture references has cemented it as one of the most culturally significant movies of the late 20th century. Scenes like Samuel L. Jackson’s Bible verse monologue have become iconic. Tarantino’s work exemplifies how fresh narrative techniques can impact popular culture on a large scale.
4. Titanic (1997)
James Cameron’s Titanic is known both for its historic portrayal of the tragic 1912 sinking and its epic romantic storyline. The film’s immense production scale, including elaborate sets and groundbreaking visual effects, pushed the boundaries of filmmaking technology at its time. It was a box office phenomenon and won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Titanic’s universal themes of love and loss ensure it resonates emotionally with audiences worldwide. It remains a milestone for epic filmmaking and emotional storytelling.
5. Battleship Potemkin (1925)
A silent film directed by Sergei Eisenstein, Battleship Potemkin is foundational in film history for its innovative montage editing techniques. The film’s depiction of a naval mutiny during the Russian Revolution of 1905 influenced narrative and visual storytelling approaches worldwide. It is often cited as the best silent film ever and is essential viewing for understanding the evolution of cinema language and political filmmaking.
6. Gone with the Wind (1939)
This sweeping historical romance set during the American Civil War continues to be among the most beloved films in the United States. Polled as the favorite movie of Americans in multiple national surveys, it showcases a mixture of romance, drama, and epic storytelling. While controversial for its portrayal of race and history today, its impact on Hollywood filmmaking, production design, and star performances in its era is profound.
7. The Exorcist (1973)
William Friedkin’s The Exorcist stands as the definitive horror film, making deep psychological and spiritual horror accessible to mass audiences. Its realistic approach to supernatural events and its exploration of faith and evil have made it a lasting cultural touchstone in the horror genre. The film’s influence on horror cinema is unmatched, and its technical achievements in effects and atmosphere have scared and fascinated audiences for decades.
8. Roman Holiday (1953)
This classic romantic comedy, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, is celebrated for its charming narrative and Hepburn’s breakout role. It won Hepburn the Academy Award for Best Actress and is frequently cited as one of the best foreign (non-Japanese) films by international polls. Roman Holiday’s combination of genuine emotion, humor, and scenic European settings makes it a timeless film for audiences seeking lighter yet memorable cinema experiences.
9. Metropolis (1927)
Directed by Fritz Lang, Metropolis is a pioneering science fiction film and a monumental silent movie. Its expressionist style, groundbreaking special effects, and social commentary on industrial society have greatly influenced the sci-fi genre and film art in general. Watching Metropolis offers valuable insight into early 20th-century film innovation and the cultural anxieties of its era.
10. Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
This film, starring James Dean, captures the turbulence and rebellion of post-war American youth culture. It is an iconic exploration of teenage angst and alienation, themes that remain relevant. The movie helped define the image of the troubled adolescent in cinema and influenced generations of filmmakers and audiences. It stands as a cultural marker for both Hollywood and wider social attitudes of the 1950s.
Conclusion
These 10 films are essential additions to any cinephile’s watchlist because they represent a wide range of genres, historical periods, and cultural impacts. From groundbreaking silent films to influential blockbusters, these movies provide not only entertainment but also important lessons in film history, narrative techniques, and cultural reflection. Watching them enriches one’s understanding of cinema as an art form and its role in shaping and reflecting society.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. A movie worth watching at least once typically combines artistic merit, cultural significance, historical impact, or emotional resonance that endures across generations.
A. While most of these films are widely available on streaming platforms or DVD/Blu-ray, some older titles like Battleship Potemkin or Metropolis may require seeking out specialized sources or classic film distributors.
A. Older films are often foundational works that influenced narrative, technical innovations, and genres in cinema, making them important for understanding film history.
A. Yes, you can watch them in any order. Each film stands on its own merit and offers a unique perspective on filmmaking and storytelling.
A. Some of these films contain mature themes or intense scenes (for example, The Exorcist and Pulp Fiction) and are recommended for mature audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.
