Best of Every Genre
This list goes over the best film in every genre ranging from action to horror to romance. Based on expert polls and modern reflections, it’s easy to see why these films are considered unbeatable in their respective categories.
1. Citizen Kane
In terms of historical impact and longevity, Citizen Kane is often cited as the number 1 film and has topped international polls and is regarded as the best by the British Film Institute. Starring Orson Welles, this story follows the life of a newspaper magnate as he rises from obscurity to power.
2. Mad Max 2
If you’re a fan of action movies, you’re probably familiar with the world of Mad Max. Well, 1981’s Mad Max 2 is considered the best action film ever made, as dictated by a 2015 poll in Rolling Stone. It blends elements of sci-fi with heavy-packed action and a great story.
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3. Pinocchio
Turning to the world of animation, Pinocchio is cited as the best animated film in 2014 by Time Out. This poll included experts, animators, and critics alike, and 1940’s wooden boy reigned supreme.
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4. It’s a Wonderful Life
Christmas specials have kind of become a genre in their own right, and while there are plenty to choose from ranging from The Grinch to Elf, audience polls instead decided 1946’s It’s a Wonderful Life is the greatest of all time.
5. Some Like It Hot
This 1959 movie starring Marilyn Monroe is actually considered one of the greatest comedy films of all time.
When 253 critics from around the world were asked to weigh in on a 2017 BBC poll, their love for this film was unanimous.
6. Monty Python’s Life of Brian
Speaking of comedy films, it’s important to give credit to Monty Python’s incredible work. Specifically, 1979’s Life of Brian, which is a comedic retelling of the Bible story, was voted as the best comedy of all time by over 22,000 people.
7. Man With a Movie Camera
Returning to the world of older films, Man With a Movie Camera came out in 1929 and is regarded as one of the best documentary films. It attained a total of 125 votes when 238 critics, curators, and academics were posed the question.
8. The Lord of the Rings
When it comes to fantasy, The Lord of the Rings has no competition. All three movies were voted very highly, with Return of the King sweeping numerous Oscars in its year of release. To this day the franchise is going strong, and nothing else ever came as close.
9. The Exorcist
When 150 experts were asked to name the best horror film in 2012, 53 of them gave it up for 1973’s The Exorcist. Due to its special effects, unique storytelling, and haunting scenery, it’s no surprise it won.
10. Brokeback Mountain
Considered one of the most impactful LGBT movies out there, 2005’s Brokeback Mountain follows two men struggling with their feelings in a conservative slice of America. It’s no surprise it won a poll for its heartfelt story, compelling themes, and fantastic acting.
11. West Side Story
Shifting gears to the world of musicals, West Side Story follows a Romeo and Juliet-like narrative as two teenagers fall in love in the midst of a gang rivalry. In a poll held by The Observer in 2007, this 1961 film won as best screen musical.
12. The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Another musical worth mentioning is certainly 1975’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It actually had a poor opening at first until they decided to screen it late night. At that point, the late-night audience loved it and it began its cult following. In a 2017 Rolling Stone poll, it was voted as the best movie musical.
13. Casablanca
Turning to the world of romance, many people consider 1942’s Casablanca as one of the greats. It tells a powerful story with relatable characters that traverse their own feelings in an ever-complex world.
14. Titanic
Speaking of romance, most modern viewers would probably consider Titanic as one of the greats, and they’re not far off. In fact, in 2011, 1997’s Titanic was voted the most romantic film in a poll by Fandango.
15. 2001: A Space Odyssey
Certainly a product of its time, 1968’s Space Odyssey won best science fiction film when 136 science fiction experts, critics, and filmmakers were polled by Time Out London. This is actually a recurring theme, as the movie would continue to win all sorts of polls for years on.
16. Blade Runner
1982’s Blade Runner was so popular that it even had a recent remake. Directed by Ridley Scott, it follows the story of a replicant hunter navigating love and duty. With its innovative world-building and imagery, it's no wonder this is considered a great sci-fi work.
17. Rocky
Known for its motivational arc, this movie follows Rocky Balboa as he prepares to take on the world heavyweight challenge Apollo Creed. In a poll conducted by Digital Spy, it was considered the greatest sports movie ever, and is loved by many.
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18. The Dark Knight
While audiences are a bit torn on superhero movies, for decades, The Dark Knight has held its place as the best superhero movie ever. Known for stellar acting, an impactful plot, and beautiful cinematography, this is a hard one to beat.
19. Saving Private Ryan
Not only is this 1998 film considered one of the greatest war films, but it’s also considered an accurate look into what war actually looked like. It follows Captain John Miller as he traverses enemy lines to try and save Private James Ryan.
20. Stagecoach
Finally, taking a look at Western films, there are plenty of greats to pick from. However, Clint Eastwood aside, 1939’s Stagecoach is often referred to as the best Western film of all time. It includes acting legend John Wayne and follows an assorted group of passengers bound for New Mexico.
