Welcome back to my list of favorite films! We’ve already explored some incredible picks, and now it’s time to dive into the next 20. These films take everything up a notch, delivering even more excitement, heart, and unforgettable characters. Get ready for stories that will captivate, surprise, and stay with you long after the credits roll.

To capture the essence of this surreal moment, I’ve chosen an AI-generated visual that reflects both psychological depth and dreamlike uncertainty. This surreal composition mirrors the film’s themes of emotional complexity, inner conflict, and the unpredictable journey ahead. Much like the ocean itself, the image suggests both beauty and the unknown, a perfect visual for the psychological tension in these stories.

So, let’s dive in!

80. Nightcrawler

Year: 2014
Director: Dan Gilroy
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Bill Paxton

Lou Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal) enters the world of crime journalism in Los Angeles. As he manipulates his way to success, he becomes increasingly obsessed with obtaining shocking footage, pushing moral boundaries.

Nightcrawler is a tense thriller driven by Jake Gyllenhaal’s standout performance as Lou Bloom, a morally complex character. The setting of Nightcrawler is great. The movie takes place at night in Los Angeles, and the empty, dark streets create a sense of danger and loneliness making the city feel distant and cold.

At its core, Nightcrawler makes you question the role of the media and how much it can be influenced by people who are willing to cross ethical lines to get ahead. With strong performances, a tense atmosphere, and themes that make you think long after the film ends, Nightcrawler is one of the most memorable thrillers in recent years.

79. Blink Twice

Year: 2024
Director: Zoë Kravitz
Starring: Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Christian Slater, Simon Rex, Adria Arjona, Haley Joel Osment, Kyle MacLachlan, Geena Davis, and Alia Shawkat.

Frida (Naomi Ackie) is a cocktail waitress and who, along with her friend Jess (Alia Shawkat), meets tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) at a fundraising gala. Charmed by Frida, Slater invites them to his private island for a luxurious getaway.

Blink Twice is a psychological thriller and the directorial debut of Zoë Kravitz. This thought-provoking must-see film explores themes of manipulation, power, and the hidden darkness within elite circles. It delivers an intense and violent portrayal of control, keeping audiences on edge throughout.

Kravitz’s bold direction creates a gripping atmosphere, using unique camera angles and eerie music to build suspense. The film’s dreamlike and often disorienting visuals blur the line between reality and illusion, reflecting Frida’s unraveling mind. Vivid, almost surreal colors contrast with sudden bursts of shocking violence, emphasizing how the island’s beauty masks a much darker reality.

The soundtrack of Blink Twice is using a mix of different music to enhance the film’s dark themes. From the upbeat funk of James Brown to the experimental sounds of Yoko Ono & John Lennon, the music creates a unique mood. It highlights the contrast between the island’s glamorous surface and the darker secrets underneath, adding tension to the story.

Despite its heavy themes, Blink Twice is a visually stunning and engaging experience that holds the audience’s attention until the very end. Kravitz proves herself to be a director to watch, delivering a stylish film that is both captivating and thought-provoking. It’s clear that she has a strong cinematic voice, and her future work is something to look forward to as she continues to refine her style.

78. The Holiday

Year: 2006
Director: Nancy Meyers
Starring: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black

Amanda (Cameron Diaz) and Iris (Kate Winslet) are both dealing with heartbreak during the Christmas season. They decide to swap homes, leading to unexpected consequences.

The Holiday is a delightful romantic comedy that has heartwarming story, charming performances, and the perfect mix of emotions. The film does an excellent job of blending romance, humor, and the magic of the holiday season, creating a feel-good atmosphere that’s perfect for any time of year. The cozy, festive settings, especially the charming countryside cottage, enhance the overall holiday feel.

77. Falling Down

Year: 1993
Director: Joel Schumacher
Starring: Michael Douglas, Robert Duvall, Barbara Hershey

William Foster (Michael Douglas), a frustrated man who finds himself stuck in traffic in Los Angeles day. As he abandons his car and begins to walk across the city, his frustrations with society and personal life manifest into act of violence.

Falling Down is a powerful portrayal of societal frustration and disappointment with the American dream. Directed by Joel Schumacher, the film explores several themes, such as isolation, mental instability, and the pressures of modern life.

The character of William Foster, played by Michael Douglas, is a fascinating personality, simultaneously sympathetic and disturbing. Douglas’s great acting brings versatility and depth to the character, who is grappling with numerous internal and external conflicts. Schumacher’s direction creates a tense atmosphere that enhances the film’s impact.

76. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Year: 2011
Director: David Fincher
Starring: Rooney Mara, Daniel Craig, Christopher Plummer

Influential industrialist Henrik Vanger’s niece Harriet disappeared under mysterious circumstances 40 years ago. As a last attempt at solving the case, he hires investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist.

Based on Stieg Larsson’s international bestseller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a Swedish-Danish crime thriller directed by Niels Arden Oplev. The film has a compelling narrative, striking performances, and a chilling atmosphere that captures the essence of the Nordic Noir genre. It excels not only as a mystery but also as an examination of societal issues. With its strong performances, a well-crafted plot, and a haunting ambiance, it remains a standout entry in the genre and is a must-watch for fans of intense, thought-provoking cinema.

75. Downton Abbey

Year: 2019
Director: Michael Engler
Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery

In 1927, the Crawleys receive word that King George V and Queen Mary intend to visit Downton during their royal tour of Yorkshire, exciting both the family and the staff.

I reviewed this excellent series in July, giving it a five-star review. As often happens, a beloved series is usually better than a movie adapted to continue its story from, and Downton Abbey is no exception.

Set against the backdrop of post-World War I Britain, the film reflects an era of societal transition. It features several storylines, including the romantic relationships of the Crawley siblings, the changing interactions between the upstairs family and their downstairs staff, and the impact of the royal visit. This visit reveals hidden agendas, secrets, and conflicts, ultimately testing the strength and unity of both the family and their staff. Visually, the film maintains the high production values of the series, with lavish costumes, detailed sets, and a beautiful score.

74. Ikitie (Eternal Road)

Year: 2017
Director: Antti-Jussi Annila
Starring: Tommi Korpela, Sakari Kuosmanen, Johanna Kuokkanen

In 1930, Jussi Ketola (Tommi Korpela) is violently abducted from his home by nationalists and forced to cross into Soviet Russia. Enduring brutal conditions in a foreign land, Jussi’s only goal is to survive and find a way back to his family, no matter the cost.

Finding a Finnish movie that genuinely stands out is quite rare, at least for me. While there are many good films in Finland, it’s uncommon to come across one that captivates with both its storytelling and execution. This makes it particularly noteworthy when a Finnish film like Ikitie (also known as “The Eternal Road”) breaks through with its quality and compelling plot.

This movie was part of the Finland 100 celebration program in 2017, marking 100 years of Finnish independence. Before gaining independence, Finland was an autonomous Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire for 108 years. Prior to this, Finland had been under Swedish rule for nearly 700 years, from around 1150 until the Finnish War of 1809. After this war, Finland became an autonomous part of the Russian Empire as the Grand Duchy of Finland. It remained in this status until December 6, 1917, when Finland declared its independence from the Russian Empire, shortly after the Bolshevik Revolution.

The movie shows the harsh reality of the purges in Soviet Karelia during the 1930s and the brutal conditions faced by those caught in this dark chapter of history. The movie shines a light on the personal stories behind these historical events, highlighting the human cost of wars and political conflicts. The inspiration drawn from real-life experiences, as shared by the author, adds authenticity and depth to the film’s plot. Ikitie is a well-executed film, skillfully directed, and powerfully performed. Its compelling story make it deserving of more recognition and attention.

73. Scent of a Woman

Year: 1992
Director: Martin Brest
Starring: Al Pacino, Chris O’Donnell, James Rebhorn

Charlie Simms (Chris O’Donnell), a student at an elite prep school, who takes a job looking after Frank Slade (Al Pacino), a blind, retired Army officer. As the two spend time together, Charlie learns about Frank’s life and the choices he must make about his future

A Scent of a Woman is evergreen classic celebrated for Al Pacino’s powerful performance as Frank Slade. The film balances dramatic depth with moments of humor and insight, exploring themes of courage, redemption and the complexities of personal relationships.

Movie offers a distinctive take on the buddy film genre by highlighting the contrasting experiences of its two main characters. The film effectively explores their contrasting life experiences and provides a deep, emotional character study, making it a memorable and impactful movie. It’s one of those movies that deserves more attention.

72. Goldfinger

Year: 1964
Director: Guy Hamilton
Starring: Sean Connery, Gert Frobe, Honor Blackman

James Bond (Sean Connery) investigates the wealthy and suspicious businessman Auric Goldfinger (Gert Frobe) as he uncovers Goldfinger’s plan to contaminate the United States’ gold supply at Fort Knox.

For me, Sean Connery is the best James Bond. He’s got the perfect mix of charm, charisma, and toughness—qualities that I feel Daniel Craig doesn’t quite capture. While Pierce Brosnan is my choice for the best modern Bond, Connery’s portrayal is simply iconic. The Bond films have always been a part of my life, and I still love watching them, especially during weekend getaways at the summer cottage.

Some people might criticize Bond’s character for being overly masculine, womanizer, and aggressive actions as outdated or problematic in today’s more progressive world. But I believe Bond is a fictional character created for entertainment, and his masculinity is a big part of what makes him a larger-than-life figure. He represents a bold, daring persona that fits perfectly within the action-adventure genre. I like James Bond movies because they offer thrilling action, exciting plots, and a charismatic lead in Sean Connery, whose Bond remains timeless. The combination of suspense, adventure, and unforgettable characters makes the series an enduring classic.

Goldfinger stands out for me because Sean Connery is at his best, and the villain, Auric Goldfinger, is one of the most iconic in the series. The suspenseful plot, with the unforgettable laser scene, is great. It’s the ultimate Bond film, capturing all the excitement, charm, and thrills that make the series so iconic.

71. A Cure for Wellness

Year: 2016
Director: Gore Verbinski
Starring: Dane DeHaan, Jason Isaacs, Mia Goth

Lockhart (Dane DeHaan), a young executive sent to retrieve his company’s CEO from a remote wellness center in the Swiss Alps. What begins as a simple mission quickly spirals into a surreal and unsettling experience.

Directed by Gore Verbinski, A Cure For Wellness is a visually stunning psychological thriller that guides viewers to a world of mystery that showcases beautiful landscapes that contrast with the eerie atmosphere of the wellness center. It’s a such an ambitious film that challenges conventional storytelling and are the ones you don’t see every year. Its blend of psychological horror and surrealism, combined with striking visuals and strong performances, makes it a thought-provoking watch.

70. Black Swan

Year: 2010
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Starring: Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel

Nina (Portman) is a ballerina in a New York City ballet company whose life, like all those in her profession, is completely consumed with dance.

Natalie Portman’s year of ballet training and the script’s decade-long development—from its original off-Broadway setting and protagonist named Alexandria to its final form under Darren Aronofsky—are few of key factors in Black Swan‘s outstanding quality.

Black Swan is a great psychological thriller that dives deeply into the world of ballet and the psyche of its protagonist. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the film offers a masterful exploration of ambition, obsession, and the relentless quest for perfection. Some might argue that there is a fine line between madness and extraordinary genius.

69. American Psycho

Year: 2000
Director: Mary Harron
Starring: Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Reese Witherspoon

Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale), a wealthy and successful investment banker living in 1980s Manhattan. On the surface, he appears to have the perfect life, but beneath his polished exterior lies a deeply disturbed individual with violent tendencies.

American Psycho is a dark, satirical psychological thriller that expertly explores the emptiness of wealth and status in 1980s America. Christian Bale delivers one of his greatest roles ever as a chilling Patrick Bateman, capturing his character’s cold, manic nature while adding a layer of dark humor. Stylish direction, sharp dialogue, and haunting soundtrack heighten the sense of unease, making it a provocative cult classic.

68. Dressed to Kill

Year: 1980
Director: Brian De Palma
Starring: Michael Caine, Angie Dickinson, Nancy Allen

A mysterious blonde woman murders one of a psychiatrist’s patients and subsequently targets a high-class call girl who witnessed the crime.

Brian De Palma has crafted an array of memorable films over the past five decades, with classics like Carrie (1976), Scarface (1983), and Carlito’s Way (1993). However, Dressed to Kill often gets overlooked, which is a shame because it exemplifies his talent for building tension and creating intricate plots. Released when De Palma was 40, this film is a fascinating work that showcases his unique vision and signature style.

The film’s visual storytelling is striking, characterized by De Palma’s trademark use of suspenseful framing and dreamlike sequences. The cinematography, combined with a haunting score, creates an atmosphere of unease and anticipation that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

67. Mission Impossible

Year: 1996
Director: Brian De Palma
Starring: Tom Cruise, Jon Voight, Emmanuelle Béart

A secret agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise), is framed for the murder of his team during a mission. As he works to clear out his name, Hunt uncovers a complex conspiracy within the intelligence community.

I’ve seen all the Mission Impossible movies and I like them all. They offer a perfect blend of action to my taste. Tom Cruise delivers a consistently strong performance as Ethan Hunt, bringing his trademark intensity and commitment to performing his own stunts.

Directed by the legendary Brian De Palma, the original Mission: Impossible stands out for its sophisticated approach to the action genre. De Palma’s direction is marked by his ability to create suspense and craft visually striking scenes.

The combination of Tom Cruise’s dynamic performance and Brian De Palma’s masterful direction set a high standard for the Mission: Impossible series. By introducing new characters, expanding storylines, and continually pushing the limits of action filmmaking, the franchise has become a true classic. It’s hard to believe that the first movie was shot almost 30 years ago. The series has managed to remain fresh and exciting, retaining its appeal through stunts and narratives that keep audiences coming back for more. This is one of those movies I want to see in cinemas because the big-screen experience truly enhances its impact.

66. The Edge

Year: 1997
Director: Lee Tamahori
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Alec Baldwin, Elle Macpherson

A wealthy businessman Charles Morse (Anthony Hopkins) and photographer Bob Green (Alec Baldwin) are finding themselves stranded in the Alaskan wilderness after a plane crash. Survival will beging.

The Edge excels as a survival drama, largely due to its strong performances and gripping narrative. The film is set in the rugged yet picturesque Alaskan wilderness, which creates a sense of isolation and danger, effectively raising the stakes of the survival challenge. Director Lee Tamahori masterfully uses the wilderness backdrop to enhance the film’s atmosphere, blending thrilling survival elements with a nuanced examination of personal conflicts and relationships. Overall, The Edge stands out for its exploration of human nature under extreme duress, revealing both strengths and vulnerabilities in its characters.

65. Manchurian Candidate

Year: 2004
Director: Jonathan Demme
Starring: Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, Liev Schreiber

Major Bennett Marco (Denzel Washington), a soldier who served in the Gulf War begins to have disturbing memories of his time in combat.

The film is a remake of the 1962 classic of the same name and is based on the novel by Richard Condon. It explores themes like power, manipulation, and the effects of trauma by asking important questions about free will and how outside forces can shape people’s actions. The film also comments on politics and how power can corrupt, which feels especially relevant in today’s world.

In summary, The Manchurian Candidate is an exciting political thriller with strong performances and a thought-provoking story. Not only does it entertain, but it also encourages viewers to think about power and the dangers of blind loyalty. With its tense atmosphere and complex characters, The Manchurian Candidate stands out in the genre and remains important in today’s discussions about politics and society.

64. Legends of the Fall 

Year: 1994
Director: Edward Zwick
Starring: Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn

Set in the early 1900s, the story follows the lives of the three Ludlow brothers—Alfred (Aidan Quinn), Tristan (Brad Pitt), and Samuel (Henry Thomas)—and their father, Colonel William Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins).

Legends of the Fall is a beautifully crafted film that features strong performances and a deeply heartfelt story. It captures the complexities of family life and the difficult choices that come with it. With stunning visuals and an engaging narrative, Legends of the Fall stands out as a classic in cinema. This film is particularly noteworthy for its rich storytelling and outstanding performances, especially by Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt. Their portrayals elevate the film to a modern classic.

63. Eyes Wide Shut

Year: 1999
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Starring: Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Sidney Pollack

Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) heads off on a strange, all-night journey after his wife Alice (Nicole Kidman) confesses her unfulfilled desires.

Eyes Wide Shut, directed by Stanley Kubrick, is a modern classic loosely based on Arthur Schnitzler’s 1926 novella Traumnovelle (Dream Story). This film, released in 1999, was Kubrick’s last movie, ending a career that spanned five decades. The film has a surreal, dreamlike, blurring the line between reality and fantasy. It explores themes like human desire, power, and control, with Kubrick’s unique style and attention to detail creating a captivating atmosphere.

62. Joe’s Palace

Year: 2007
Director: Stephen Poliakoff
Starring: Daniel Craig, Ruth Wilson, Sir Michael Gambon

Joe (Danny Lee Wynter), who is also the narrator, is a teenager who has just left school and is employed as a doorman at the estate of billionaire Elliot Graham (Michael Gambon). Graham is obsessed with uncovering a dark secret related to his father’s wealth.

Joe’s Palace is a powerful British drama that explores themes of loneliness, family secrets, and the effects of wealth and power. I had heard about it before, but I only recently found it on Max. Going in without any expectations, I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was.

What I liked this movie a lot was about how it dives into the complex lives of its characters. The storytelling is rich, and there’s a tense atmosphere that keeps you interested. The film does a great job of showing the emotional struggles of its characters and how their pasts affect their current lives and relationships. I also watched its sequel, Capturing Mary, which is good too, but I liked the first movie more because it had a deeper impact and better storytelling. The characters in Joe’s Palace felt more real, and their stories were more moving.

This film is another excellent example of the high-quality work that the BBC produces, whether in movies or TV shows. I usually enjoy their productions, but I did find London Road—a strange thriller musical—didn’t work for me as much. Overall, Joe’s Palace is a thought-provoking drama that stays with you after watching.

61. Love Actually

Year: 2003
Director: Richard Curtis
Starring: Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley

A newly elected Prime Minister who falls for a staff member, a widow trying to connect with his stepson, a rock star making a comeback, a man in love with a woman who is marrying someone else, a writer and his Portuguese housekeeper, and teenagers discovering love – and so much more. Ultimately, it encompasses the oldest story of all—the airport reunion, where people leave and others arrive, symbolizing the universal experiences of coming together and going to separate ways.

Love Actually is the kind of movie that pulls people together, whether you’re watching it with family, friends, or your partner. The setting really matters, with London during the holiday season—the red double-decker buses, the cobblestone streets, it all feels alive.

In the end, it’s a film that leaves you feeling a little more hopeful, a little more thankful. I’m not really into Christmas movies, except for a few from the ’90s, but this one’s different. It’s the kind of movie I actually look forward to watching when the holidays roll around.

Closing remarks

And that’s a wrap on my list of movies from 80 to 61! I hope you had as much fun exploring these incredible films as I did. But don’t worry, we’re just getting started—there are plenty more unforgettable stories to come in the next batch of 20.

Thanks for surviving this movie marathon with me – your sweat and tears have not gone unnoticed. Let’s keep the movie magic rolling – because who really needs a break when there are more films to dive into?