Top 10 Must-Watch English Movies of All Time
In the world of cinema, the distinction between objective and subjective judgment creates a diverse landscape of opinions among industry professionals and general viewers. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 English movies that have left an indelible mark on the art of filmmaking, combining lasting relevance with critical acclaim.
- Everything Everywhere All at Once Genre: Absurdist Drama
Director: Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert
Synopsis: Michelle Yeoh’s character, a Chinese immigrant, navigates a surreal journey across time to prevent a powerful entity from destroying the multiverse. The film weaves elements of martial arts, science fiction, fantasy, and animation, exploring philosophical ideas and addressing issues like ADHD and Asian-American hybrid identity. - Avatar: The Way of Water Genre: Science Fiction
Director: James Cameron
Synopsis: The sequel to the 2009 blockbuster “Avatar,” this sci-fi epic explores the depths of Pandora’s oceans. Praise for its visual effects and technological prowess accompanies criticism of the plot. Despite mixed reviews, it secured a spot among the best 10 movies of 2022 by the American Film Institute and the National Board of Review. - The Banshees of Inisherin Genre: Black Tragic Comedy
Director: Martin McDonagh
Synopsis: Based on real events, this dark comedy follows the fallout between two longtime friends, played by Kerry Condon, Barry Keoghan, and Colin Farrell. McDonagh’s signature blend of humor and tragedy earned the film critical acclaim and a place among the Best Ten Films of 2022 by the International Board of Review. - Top Gun: Maverick Genre: Action/Drama
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Synopsis: Tom Cruise reprises his role as Maverick in this action-packed sequel. As he mentors a new generation of Top Gun graduates, the film delves into Maverick’s past. It received positive reviews, earning a spot among the best 10 movies of 2022 by the American Film Institute and winning Best Film from the National Board of Review. - Catch Me If You Can Genre: Comedy-Drama
Director: Steven Spielberg
Synopsis: Spielberg’s 2002 film, based on the life of Frank Abagnale, follows Leonardo DiCaprio as a skilled con artist. Tom Hanks plays the FBI agent hot on his trail. Praised for its engaging storytelling, the film remains a classic and is often recommended for its blend of humor and drama. - The Departed Genre: Crime Thriller
Director: Martin Scorsese
Synopsis: This 2006 crime thriller, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson, explores the complex dynamics between an undercover cop and a mole within the Boston Winter Hill Gang. Scorsese’s direction earned him his first Oscar for Best Director, and the film garnered critical acclaim. - Apocalypto Genre: Historical Epic Horror
Director: Mel Gibson
Synopsis: Mel Gibson’s 2006 historical epic, set in ancient Maya civilization, follows a man’s quest for survival amidst societal collapse. The film, spoken entirely in Yucatec Mayan with subtitles, received acclaim for its intense storytelling and historical accuracy. - Gandhi Genre: Biographical Drama
Director: Richard Attenborough
Synopsis: This 1982 biographical film chronicles Mahatma Gandhi’s life and his nonviolent struggle for Indian independence. Ben Kingsley’s portrayal of Gandhi earned him an Oscar, and the film won a total of eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. - Titanic Genre: Epic Romantic/Disaster
Director: James Cameron
Synopsis: James Cameron’s 1997 epic tells a love story aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. With groundbreaking special effects and a gripping narrative, “Titanic” became the first film to surpass $1 billion at the box office and won multiple Academy Awards. - The Pursuit of Happyness Genre: Biographical Drama
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Synopsis: Will Smith stars in this 2006 biographical drama, portraying Chris Gardner’s year-long struggle with homelessness. The film’s emotional impact and Smith’s performance garnered widespread praise, making it a motivational classic often recommended by business schools.
These films collectively represent the diverse and enduring nature of English-language cinema, captivating audiences with their compelling stories and cinematic brilliance.
