22 Movies You Absolutely Must Watch in Your Lifetime: Enter a World of Wonder
1. The Godfather 1972，IMDB Rating: 9.2，Douban Rating: 9.3，ID: tt0068646 Photo by Stack Exchange, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Godfather (1972) is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. It’s a film that delves deep into the world of organized crime, presenting it from the inside out. The movie is a brilliant portrayal of the Corleone family, with Marlon Brando delivering an unforgettable performance as Don Vito Corleone, a character who, despite his criminal activities, evokes sympathy and admiration. His son, Michael, played by Al Pacino, undergoes a compelling transformation from a reluctant outsider to a ruthless godfather. The film’s narrative is gripping, the characters are well-developed, and the performances are top-notch. The Godfather is not just a movie, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Casablanca 1942，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0034583 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a mother who enjoys sharing the magic of cinema with her family, I found ‘Casablanca’ to be a timeless masterpiece that transcends generations. The film’s narrative, set against the backdrop of World War II, is a poignant exploration of love and sacrifice, making it a must-watch for any movie lover.
3. Schindler’s List 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.9，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0108052 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Schindler’s List, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a film that leaves an indelible mark on the viewer. It tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a man who saved over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust. The film’s portrayal of Schindler’s transformation from a profit-driven industrialist to a humanitarian is both compelling and thought-provoking.
4. The Dark Knight 2008，IMDB Rating: 9.0，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0468569 Photo by kartjeeva.deviantart.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan, is a film that transcends the boundaries of the superhero genre. It’s a complex and engrossing tragedy that creates characters we come to care about. The film is not a simplistic tale of good and evil. Batman, portrayed by Christian Bale, is a vigilante who is blamed for the deaths of policemen and others. The Joker, played by the late Heath Ledger, is more than a villain. He’s a Mephistopheles whose actions pose moral dilemmas for his enemies. The film’s technical quality is superlative, and it always feels relevant. The Dark Knight is listed as one of the 86 movies you have to watch at least once in your life.
5. Inception 2010，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.3，ID: tt1375666 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Inception is a cinematic masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. Its intricate plot and compelling characters draw you into a world where dreams can be manipulated and inception is possible. The film’s exploration of complex themes such as reality, illusion, and the power of dreams is both thought-provoking and captivating. The stunning visual effects and the brilliant performances by the cast further enhance the viewing experience. Despite its complexity, Inception is a film that rewards viewers with its depth and originality. It’s a film that truly deserves to be on the list of movies you have to watch at least once in your life.
6. Jurassic Park 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0107290 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a mother who loves spending time with her family, I found ‘Jurassic Park’ to be a thrilling adventure that kept us on the edge of our seats. The movie’s special effects and life-like animatronics are indeed a spectacle, creating memorable scenes of awe and sheer terror. However, I agree with some critics that the film could have benefited from stronger human story values. Despite this, ‘Jurassic Park’ is a cinematic milestone that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. It’s a film that sparks our imagination about the prehistoric era and makes for a fun, albeit intense, family movie night. Just make sure the little ones are ready for some dino-sized scares!
7. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 2004，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0338013 Photo by abusimbel.tistory.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a cinematic masterpiece that delves into the complexities of relationships and the agony of heartbreak. It’s a film that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, thanks to the brilliant script by Charlie Kaufman and the daring direction of Michel Gondry. The performances by Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet are deeply moving, bringing to life the poignant tale of love and loss. The film’s innovative concept of memory erasure adds a unique twist to the narrative, making it a compelling watch.
8. Get Out 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt5052448 Photo by usso.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Jordan Peele’s ‘Get Out’ is a film that leaves a lasting impression. Its blend of horror, mystery, and social critique makes it a unique cinematic experience. The film’s exploration of racial tensions in a seemingly idyllic suburb is both unsettling and thought-provoking. It’s a film that doesn’t shy away from calling out societal issues, making it a must-watch for its bold narrative and compelling storytelling.
9. Black Panther 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 6.5，ID: tt1825683 Photo by scribblesofstageandscreen.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Black Panther is a cinematic marvel that transcends the superhero genre. Set in the vibrant and culturally rich universe of Wakanda, the film offers a compelling narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The characters are well-developed, each contributing to the depth and complexity of the story. The film’s attention to detail, from its stunning visuals to its poignant themes, sets it apart from other superhero films. It’s a film that not only entertains but also challenges the viewer, making it a must-watch for any movie enthusiast. The film’s inclusion in the list of ’86 Movies You Have to Watch at Least Once in Your Life’ is a testament to its impact and significance in contemporary cinema.
10. The Farewell 2019，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 7.3，ID: tt8637428 Photo by der-andere-film.ch, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Farewell, directed by Lulu Wang, is a film that resonates with me deeply. It’s a story of family, culture, and the delicate balance between truth and deception. The film is based on an actual lie, where a family decides not to tell their matriarch about her impending death, instead organizing a wedding to bring everyone together one last time. This film is listed as one of the 86 movies you have to watch at least once in your life, and I couldn’t agree more.
11. The Big Lebowski 1998，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt0118715 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Big Lebowski is a cinematic gem that stands out with its unique storytelling and memorable characters. The film’s strength lies in its ability to weave a complex narrative around a laid-back character, ‘The Dude’, whose only concern is his soiled rug. The film’s humor is subtle yet impactful, deriving from the absurdity of the situations ‘The Dude’ finds himself in. However, beneath the surface-level comedy, the film offers a critique of societal norms and expectations, making it a thought-provoking watch.
12. Back to the Future 1985，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0088763 Photo by satyanash.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a movie fan who appreciates informative and cultural films, I found ‘Back to the Future’ to be a delightful journey through time. The movie brilliantly blends comedy and adventure, creating an irresistible plot that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, and the storyline is original and thought-provoking. The film’s comparison to Capra’s ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is apt, as it leaves you with a hopeful message about the power of change and the importance of family.
13. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 8.0，ID: tt0091042 Photo by satyanash.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a film that truly stands the test of time. Directed by John Hughes, it tells the story of a high school senior, Ferris, who decides to skip school for a day and embark on an adventure in Chicago with his girlfriend and best friend. The film is a sweet, warm-hearted comedy that showcases the innocence of youth and the importance of seizing the day.
14. The Breakfast Club 1985，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0088847 Photo by olivian.ro, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Breakfast Club, a film that transcends the confines of its time and resonates with every generation. It’s a film that doesn’t just tell a story, but holds up a mirror to its audience, challenging us to see ourselves and others beyond the stereotypes. The film’s strength lies in its candid portrayal of teenage life, the struggles of growing up, and the universal quest for understanding and acceptance. It’s a film that reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, that we are more alike than we are different, and that understanding and compassion can bridge even the widest of gaps.
15. Clueless 1995，IMDB Rating: 6.8，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0112697 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a software engineer who loves comedy and romance, I found ‘Clueless’ to be a delightful watch. The movie, set in the sun-drenched backdrop of Southern California, offers a humorous take on the lives of its teenage characters, especially the protagonist, Cher. Her self-absorbed yet endearing personality adds a unique charm to the narrative. The satirical elements in the movie, which subtly mock the Beverly Hills elite and teen films, add to its appeal. Despite its light-hearted tone, ‘Clueless’ manages to convey a deeper message about personal growth and self-realization.
16. 10 Things I Hate About You 1999，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0147800 Photo by satyanash.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 10 Things I Hate About You is a charming film that stands out from typical teen fare. It’s a modernized version of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew and has everything you could want from a teen rom-com. The performances of Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger are strong and the script is unexpectedly clever. The film’s strength lies in its witty script and the chemistry between the lead actors. However, it does fall into the trap of some teen movie clichés. Despite this, 10 Things I Hate About You remains a standout film in the teen genre, offering a unique and entertaining viewing experience.
17. Before Sunrise 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.8，ID: tt0112471 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Before Sunrise is a film that beautifully captures the essence of modern love through the lens of two strangers meeting by chance and spending a night together in Vienna. The film’s simplicity, combined with the natural performances of Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, creates a captivating and emotionally moving experience. The film’s inclusion in the list of ’86 Movies You Have to Watch at Least Once in Your Life’ underscores its significance and impact. As a movie lover who appreciates artistic and beautiful films, I found Before Sunrise to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that left a lasting impression.
18. Call Me by Your Name 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt5726616 Photo by diggita.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Call Me by Your Name is a film that leaves a lasting impression, a narrative that gently unfolds into a poignant tale of first love. Set in the summer of 1983 in Italy, it tells the story of a life-changing romance between Elio, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, a doctoral student who is interning for Elio’s father. The film is a masterful exploration of the heady beauty of awakening desire, with a melancholy undertone that resonates with the viewer long after the credits roll.
19. Her 2013，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt1798709 Photo by popkult.blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Based on the information I gathered from the web search results, “Her” is a movie that has been highly praised by critics and audiences alike. It’s a film that explores the concept of love in a futuristic setting, where the protagonist, Theodore, falls in love with an artificially intelligent operating system named Samantha. The movie is noted for its sincere and soulful depiction of loneliness and human connection. It’s also recognized for its imaginative and thoroughly constructed future Los Angeles setting. As a movie lover who appreciates artistic and beautiful films, I find “Her” to be a visually stunning and emotionally moving piece of cinema.
20. Dead Poets Society 1989，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 9.1，ID: tt0097165 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Dead Poets Society is a film that leaves a lasting impression. It tells the story of an unconventional English teacher who inspires his students to see the world in a different light. The film is beautifully acted, particularly by Robin Williams, who brings a unique blend of humor and seriousness to his role. However, some critics argue that the film’s emotional manipulation detracts from its overall impact. From the perspective of Mary Jones, a retired teacher who loves classic and nostalgic movies, this film would likely resonate with her.
21. Good Will Hunting 1997，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0119217 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a movie lover and a mother, I found ‘Good Will Hunting’ to be a deeply moving and thought-provoking film. The performances by Matt Damon and Robin Williams are powerful and compelling, bringing to life the complex characters they portray. The film explores themes of identity, potential, and the power of mentorship in a way that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. It’s a film that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll, making it a must-watch in my book.
22. Forrest Gump 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0109830 Photo by meneame.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Forrest Gump is a cinematic gem that everyone should experience at least once. The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks, takes us on a remarkable journey through decades of American history, all seen through the eyes of Forrest, a man with an IQ of 75. Despite his intellectual limitations, Forrest’s honesty and kindness carry him through a life filled with extraordinary events, from college football hero to Vietnam War veteran to shrimp boat captain.
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