The term “classic” gets thrown around a lot these days, but what does it actually mean? In terms of film, a classic should be groundbreaking, monumental, and able to withstand the test of time .
With that in mind, I’ve scoured countless films in order to come up with what I feel is a solid offering of some of the greatest films ever conceived. See if you agree and check out this small sample of the best classic movies ever made .
‘Apocalypse Now’
As far as wartime dramas go, Apocalypse Now may just be the very best. It made no attempt to glorify the war in Vietnam and didn’t stray away from highlighting the most depraved and horrific aspects of it.
‘Miracle On 34th Street’
It’s been more than 75 years since Miracle on 34th Street was released, yet its message is still as palpable today as it ever was. The film has become an unquestionable holiday staple in millions of homes all over the world.
‘Rocky’
Everyone loves an underdog story and they don’t get much better than Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky . The film is a true David and Goliath tale and serves as inspiration for anyone who has ever been told that their dreams are impossible.
‘Forrest Gump’
If you’re a fan of emotionally gripping period-piece dramas, then look no further than Forrest Gump . No matter how many times I see this film, I can’t help but bawl my eyes out when Forrest asks in earnest, “Why don’t you love me, Jenny?”
‘The Silence Of The Lambs’
Hannibal Lecter is easily one of the most terrifying villains in the history of cinema, and it’s all thanks to the spine-tingling performance of Sir Anthony Hopkins. Fun Fact, Anthony was on-screen for less than 20 minutes , yet still managed to bring home the Oscar for “Best Actor.”
‘Alien’
Stephen Hawking once famously said, “In space, no one can hear you scream.” Now, if ever there was a more fitting tagline for a horror film (or any film for that matter) I certainly haven’t heard it. Alien helped write the book on suspense.
‘The Exorcist’
It’s ironic how many of the greatest classic movies of all time wind up being horror pictures! But any true film buff understands that a list without The Exorcist just wouldn’t be complete. This movie has been the stuff of nightmares for generations.
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‘Jaws’
Have you ever wondered why you’re afraid of what might be lurking under your feet as you swim in the ocean? The answer is easy — Jaws . This is even more impressive when you consider the fact that cows kill more people per year than sharks .
‘The Birds’
Alfred Hitchcock truly was a genius and remains one of the most impactful and iconic directors of his or any generation. The Birds is a must-watch film and possesses one of the most ominous endings ever before seen in motion pictures.
‘Singin’ In The Rain’
If you’re someone who claims to not like musicals, then you clearly haven’t seen Singin’ in the Rain . Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds are magnetic and the songs and dancing are stupendous. If that’s not enough, Singin’ in the Rain also took the top spot in AFI’s ” 100 Years of Musicals .”
‘Dazed And Confused’
I know that you’re probably thinking that Dazed and Confused doesn’t classify as a classic, but you’d be wrong. The film was released nearly 30 years ago, it helped launch the careers of some of Hollywood’s biggest actors, and remains the greatest true-to-life commentary on the high school experience of the American teenager.
’12 Angry Men’
12 Angry Men was nominated for three Oscars, including “Best Picture,” “Best Writing,” and “Best Director.” The entire film takes place inside a single room and is a testament to the idea that acting and writing are what make great films — not expensive CGI and complex special effects.
‘Mary Poppins’
I’m willing to bet good money that Mary Poppins was one of the first films you recall from your childhood. I’ll even go a step further and guesstimate that it will be one of the first films you introduce to your own children. If that doesn’t constitute a classic, then what else does?
‘The Godfather’
The Godfather feels like less of a movie and more like a documentary unfolding before your very eyes. It’s one of the most authentic cinematic offerings ever produced and has become the standard of excellence to which all other subsequent mafias/mob films are compared.
‘The Shining’
Let me say this in no uncertain terms: I [expletive] love The Shining . The film is a masterclass in suspense and slow-burn storytelling. You can literally watch Jack Torrance slips slowly into madness with each passing minute.
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’
It’s A Wonderful Life is the cinematic equivalent of a warm glass of milk and I mean that in the best way imaginable. It’s calming, soothing, and one of the few films ever produced that quite literally anyone can enjoy.
‘Citizen Kane’
Have you ever heard someone use the metaphor “It’s the Citizen Kane of…”? Well, there’s a reason for that. The film is often cited as the best movie ever made and always seems to find its way onto every “Greatest Films” list.
‘Rear Window’
I mentioned earlier that the world of cinema wouldn’t be where it is today without the many innovations of Alfred Hitchcock. Rear Window helped revolutionize the world of cinematography, and the entire horror genre as we know it.
‘The Wizard Of Oz’
Did you know that The Wizard of Oz was one of the first blockbusters to be filmed in color? The success of this film literally revolutionized the ways in which we both watch and create movies.
‘Psycho’
I promise this will be the last mention of Alfred Hitchcock on this list. But a thorough examination of classic films that happens to omit Psycho is one that is sorely lacking in foundation. This movie helped invent the “twist-ending” and pioneered the technique of jump cuts.
‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is a commentary on institutionalism, the dangers of authoritarianism, as well as the power of the individual to topple tyrannical power structures. It’s also hilarious, and heartwarming, and contains Oscar-worthy performances from some of Hollywood’s most powerful players — including Jack Nicholson and Tress McNeal.
