Some films please audiences and some films please critics. What both are looking for isn’t always the same, but some movies consistently score over and above with critics despite what audiences say. Here are 19 of the best films ever made, according to critics.
The Rules of the Game
Made in 1939, this movie is still critically acclaimed as a cinematic work of art. Set at the start of WWII, it follows an affluent group of people living in France who start to see their lifestyle dramatically change as the war begins. The rich find themselves sharing a chateau with their poor servants. Praised for its script, acting, and cast performances, this film still holds 7.9 stars on IMDB.
Sunrise
Made in 1927, this film has stood the test of time, as it still holds an impressive rating of 8.1 stars on IMDB. It depicts the story of a farmer who is seduced by a sophisticated, city-slick femme fatale who persuades him to kill his wife and elope with her to the city. The plot twist is that the farmer rekindles his love for his wife and changes his mind at the last minute.
2001: A Space Odyssey
A firm favorite of critics, this film has been breaking records for its artistic and creative flair for decades. The main thing that critics found so impressive about this movie was just how advanced it was for its years. Even though it was made in 1968, this movie influenced an entire generation of filmmakers, Directors, and set designers. And it’s still holding its own with 8.3 stars on IMDB.
Singin’ in the Rain
A Hollywood icon in every sense, this movie starring Gene Kelly is the critic’s choice every time. The writing, the dance sequences, the cast performances—it ticks all the boxes that critics want to see. And 70 years later, this movie is still rated 8.3 stars on IMDB.
The Godfather
Probably the most famous film ever made, The Godfather is the movie that keeps on giving. After winning three Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Actor (Marlon Brando), and Best Screenplay, this film still raises the bar for filmmakers worldwide with a 9.2 rating on IMDB.
In the Mood for Love
Two neighbors form a close bond after suspecting their spouses of infidelity. However, they promise to keep their relationship platonic so they don’t commit the same betrayal as their partners. Critics love this movie, mainly for its clever storyline but also for its intelligent delivery, dialogue, and ability to captivate audiences.
Stalker
Made in 1979, this film follows two men who are led into a room and told that they can have any wish they want granted to them. Critics have praised this movie for its intriguing plot and great acting. It is, by all accounts, a well-executed movie.
Shoah
This iconic documentary showcases the story of the Holocaust through interviews with witnesses, perpetrators, and survivors. Critics praised Claude Lanzmann’s ability to show the audience a 3D version of the events of this awful tragedy. This film still rates 8.7 stars on IMDB.
Taxi Driver
It stars Robert De Niro in his notorious role as a New York City (NYC) taxi driver who appears to be unstable after fighting in the Vietnam War. Critics have praised the realistic depiction of De Niro’s character and how the darker side of NYC was represented. It is an iconic film.
Psycho
Famously Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, the movie Psycho was made in 1960 and depicts a young man who runs a remote motel while also appearing to be under the domination of his mother. As different attractive women check into the motel, we begin to see that the young motelier may not be all that he appears. A critically acclaimed film across the board.
La Dolce Vita
This movie follows a series of stories in the life of a philandering journalist living in Rome. This film is an icon of cinema, and critics adore everything about this movie: the script, the acting, the costumes, and the storyline.
Some Like It Hot
Starring the one and only Marilyn Monroe, this film launched a generation of style, fashion, and popular culture into the mainstream. Monroe was a trendsetter, and her appearance in this movie still influences modern culture today. This film hit the sweet spot for audiences and critics alike.
Blade Runner
Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford, this movie set a precedent of excellence within the film industry that still holds its own today. Critics have praised everything about this movie, which is often considered an example of perfection to budding new filmmakers.
Once Upon a Time in the West
Film critics say this is one of the best Western movies ever made. The plot involves a mysterious stranger with a harmonica who joins forces with a notorious desperado to protect a widow from a dangerous killer.
Lawrence of Arabia
Iconic is all that we can say. This film was a trailblazer of its time, and Peter O’Toole’s legendary performance as Lawrence of Arabia has seldom been matched, if ever. This movie won seven Academy Awards and still holds a rating of 8.3 stars on IMDB.
Casablanca
The fact that this film was made in 1942 and we are still talking about it says a lot. Adored by fans and critics alike, it was an epic addition to cinema. Starring the legendary Humphrey Bogart, it won three Academy Awards. All we can say is that it is epic, iconic, and wonderful.
A Brighter Summer Day
This film is based on the story of two gangs of teenagers at war with each other. As the conflict between the groups escalates, it comes to a violent climax. Although this movie might not be well known amongst audiences, critics have praised it for its creative achievements.
The Wild Bunch
An epic Western movie that sees an aging group of outlaws aim for one last “hurrah” before they retire as they watch the traditional “Wild West” begin to fade away around them. A technically brilliant film that is adored by critics and fans alike. Made in 1969, this is one of the O.G. Western movies.
Sunset Boulevard
This movie takes us back to 1950. It tells the story of a screenwriter who enters into a dangerous liaison with a fading star who is determined to make a comeback. The movie plot is intelligent, and critics have praised the script for how it draws audiences in and captivates their attention as they await with anticipation to see what happens next.
