The 27 Crown Jewels: A Journey Through The Greatest Movies of All Time

1. The Wizard of Oz 1939，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0032138
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The Wizard of Oz, released in 1939, is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its enchanting story and groundbreaking visuals. The film’s universal themes resonate deeply, making it a must-see for both young and old. Its place in the pantheon of the greatest movies of all time is well-deserved, as it has significantly influenced the world of cinema. As a software engineer who appreciates well-crafted narratives, I found the film’s deft storytelling particularly impressive. The Wizard of Oz is not just a film; it’s a magical experience that transcends time.
2. It’s a Wonderful Life 1946，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 9.3，ID: tt0038650
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As a retired engineer and a movie fan who values informative and cultural films, I find ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ to be a timeless masterpiece that deserves its place among the greatest movies of all time. The film, directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, is a heartwarming tale of a small-town hero, George Bailey, whose life takes a dramatic turn on Christmas Eve. The film’s narrative, performances, and its profound message about the value of individual life have left an indelible impact on me.
3. Singin’ in the Rain 1952，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0045152
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Singin’ in the Rain is a classic film that is often considered one of the greatest movies of all time. It’s a musical comedy released in 1952, directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, and starring Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, and a young Debbie Reynolds. The film is known for its lighthearted and joyful tone, with dance numbers that are both technically impressive and full of energy.
4. The Seven Samurai 1954，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 9.3，ID: tt0047478
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Seven Samurai, directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The film’s narrative, which revolves around a group of samurai hired to protect a village from bandits, is a compelling exploration of honor, duty, and sacrifice. The performances, particularly by Toshiro Mifune and Takashi Shimura, are powerful and nuanced, bringing depth to their characters and the world they inhabit.
5. Vertigo 1958，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 8.6，ID: tt0052357
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Vertigo is a cinematic masterpiece that delves deep into the human psyche. Directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, the film explores the themes of obsession and fear through its compelling narrative and unforgettable performances. The film’s protagonist, portrayed by James Stewart, is a flawed yet fascinating character whose journey captivates the audience.
6. Psycho 1960，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0054215
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As an 18-year-old high school student from Seoul who loves art and design, I found ‘Psycho’ to be a captivating blend of horror and suspense. The film’s black and white aesthetic adds a timeless quality, while Hitchcock’s masterful direction keeps you on the edge of your seat.
7. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb 1964，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.8，ID: tt0057012
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As a retired teacher and a movie lover who enjoys classic and nostalgic films, I found ‘Dr. Strangelove’ to be a timeless masterpiece. Its satirical take on the Cold War era not only provides a historical perspective but also offers a humorous critique of the political climate of the time.
8. Il buono, il brutto, il cattivo. 1966，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0060196
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As a movie lover who appreciates realism and meaningful narratives, I found ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ to be a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s unique storytelling, combined with its stylistic elements, creates an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional Westerns.
9. The Godfather 1972，IMDB Rating: 9.2，Douban Rating: 9.3，ID: tt0068646
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The Godfather is a cinematic masterpiece that offers a unique and intimate portrayal of the Mafia. The film’s narrative is intricate and engaging, drawing viewers into the closed world of the Corleone family. The performances, particularly those of Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, are powerful and compelling, bringing depth and complexity to their characters.
10. The Godfather: Part Ⅱ 1974，IMDB Rating: 9.0，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0071562
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The Godfather: Part II is a cinematic masterpiece that stands tall in the annals of film history. The film’s narrative, which oscillates between the rise of Vito Corleone and the moral decay of his son Michael, is a compelling exploration of power, family, and crime.
11. Taxi Driver 1976，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0075314
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Taxi Driver, directed by Martin Scorsese, is a film that transcends the boundaries of the screen to leave a lasting impact on the viewer. The film’s protagonist, Travis Bickle, portrayed masterfully by Robert De Niro, is a character study of a man’s descent into madness, painting a grim picture of loneliness and alienation. The film’s quasi-documentary style, coupled with De Niro’s intense performance, creates a chilling and unforgettable cinematic experience.
12. Raging Bull 1980，IMDB Rating: 8.2，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0081398
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Raging Bull, directed by Martin Scorsese, is a film that transcends the confines of the boxing ring with its profound exploration of human emotions. The film’s protagonist, Jake LaMotta, portrayed by Robert De Niro, is a character study in jealousy and sexual insecurity. His life outside the ring is as tumultuous as his boxing career, marked by a destructive obsession with his wife and a volatile temper.
13. Raiders of the Lost Ark 1981，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0082971
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As a movie lover who enjoys watching films with my family, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ stands out as a timeless classic. The film is a roller coaster ride of adventure, whisking viewers from one thrilling scene to the next. The characters, particularly Indiana Jones and Marion, are memorable and engaging. The movie’s blend of action, humor, and adventure makes it a captivating watch for all ages. It’s no surprise that it’s often listed among the greatest movies of all time. Its enduring appeal and high entertainment value make it a must-watch for any movie lover.
14. Blade Runner 1982，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0083658
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Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford, is a film that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of cinema. Set in a dystopian future, it presents a world that is both fascinating and terrifying, filled with towering skyscrapers and flying cars. The film’s visual aesthetics are nothing short of breathtaking, creating a sense of awe and wonder. However, some critics argue that the narrative is overshadowed by the film’s stunning visuals.
15. Back to the Future 1985，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0088763
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Back to the Future, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of cinema. The film’s inventive plot, breathless construction, and unforgettable spirit make it a rousing time-travel adventure.
16. Schindler’s List 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.9，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0108052
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Schindler’s List, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the history of cinema. The film’s portrayal of the Holocaust is both haunting and deeply moving, with Spielberg masterfully capturing the horrors of the era while also highlighting the humanity of its victims. The performances, particularly those of Liam Neeson and Ben Kingsley, are exceptional, bringing to life the complex characters of Oskar Schindler and Itzhak Stern.
17. Pulp Fiction 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.9，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0110912
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Tarantino’s ‘Pulp Fiction’ is a cinematic masterpiece that redefined the landscape of modern cinema. Its non-linear storytelling, combined with its unique blend of violence and humor, creates a mesmerizing experience that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The film’s audaciousness and Tarantino’s knack for dialogue make it a standout in the annals of film history.
18. Forrest Gump 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0109830
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Forrest Gump is a film that stands out in the annals of cinema. Its unique blend of comedy, drama, and historical commentary, combined with a memorable performance by Tom Hanks, makes it a must-watch. The film’s portrayal of American history through the eyes of Forrest, a man of simple intellect but profound wisdom, offers a fresh perspective on the events that have shaped modern America. This film is not just a movie; it’s a journey through time, seen through the eyes of a man who represents the best of human spirit. It’s a film that deserves its place among the greatest movies of all time.
19. The Shawshank Redemption 1994，IMDB Rating: 9.3，Douban Rating: 9.7，ID: tt0111161
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The Shawshank Redemption is a cinematic masterpiece that stands the test of time. This 1994 drama, directed by Frank Darabont, tells a compelling story of resilience and redemption, with Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman delivering unforgettable performances. The film’s narrative, set against the backdrop of a prison, is both gripping and inspiring, making it a must-watch for any movie enthusiast.
20. The Matrix 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0133093
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The Matrix, a film that redefined the sci-fi genre, is undoubtedly one of the greatest movies of all time. Its innovative blend of action and philosophy captivates the audience, making it a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s exploration of reality through the lens of a dystopian future is both thought-provoking and exhilarating.
21. Fight Club 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0137523
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Fight Club is a cinematic masterpiece that delves deep into the human psyche, challenging societal norms and our understanding of freedom. The film’s dark and brooding tone, coupled with stellar performances from Edward Norton and Brad Pitt, creates a riveting experience that leaves viewers contemplating long after the credits roll. However, its controversial themes and violent narrative may not appeal to everyone. Despite this, Fight Club’s influence on modern cinema and its ability to provoke thought make it a must-watch for any film enthusiast.
22. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring 2001，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0120737
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The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a cinematic marvel that brings J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life with stunning special effects and a stellar cast. It’s an epic adventure that is both thrilling and emotionally engaging. However, it deviates from Tolkien’s original vision, leaning more towards a sword and sorcery epic rather than the guileless adventure Tolkien intended.
23. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers 2002，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 9.1，ID: tt0167261
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As a movie lover who appreciates adventurous and creative films, I found ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’ to be a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s spectacular blend of special effects and computer animation creates an immersive world that is both visually stunning and narratively compelling. The character of Gollum, one of the most engaging CGI creatures, adds a unique dimension to the story.
24. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King 2003，IMDB Rating: 8.9，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0167260
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As a retired engineer who values informative and cultural content, I found ‘The Return of the King’ to be a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and timeless values. The film’s epic scale is matched by its deep exploration of themes like friendship, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil. The performances are top-notch, with each actor bringing their character to life in a way that is both believable and emotionally engaging.
25. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 2004，IMDB Rating: 8.3，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0338013
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Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a film that leaves an indelible mark on the viewer. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, memory, and the pain of loss. The film’s narrative structure, which weaves in and out of different time periods in a non-linear fashion, serves to enhance the emotional resonance of the story.
26. The Dark Knight 2008，IMDB Rating: 9.0，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0468569
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As a lover of adventurous and creative cinema, ‘The Dark Knight’ stands out as a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of its genre. Its dark and complex narrative, coupled with unforgettable performances, particularly Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker, makes it more than just a comic book film.
27. Parasite 1982，IMDB Rating: 3.9，Douban Rating: 5.9，ID: tt0084472
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As a software engineer who enjoys comedy, romance, and animation, I found ‘Parasite 1982’ to be a departure from my usual preferences. This horror sci-fi movie, despite its intriguing premise of a post-apocalyptic world and a deadly parasite, failed to deliver a compelling narrative or memorable characters. The pacing was uneven, with long stretches of lethargy punctuating the moments of terror.