Buzz
Even the greatest films of all time often have noticeable flaws—whether it's a debatable acting choice, a controversial theme, or an ending that falls slightly short. However, these imperfections don't ruin the experience. In fact, a movie that dares to take bold risks, even if it doesn't fully succeed, is often more memorable than one that plays it safe and ends up uninspiring. A film can be exceptional without being flawless.
Yet, there are films that seem almost beyond criticism. Any minor flaws they might have are so seamlessly integrated into the overall masterpiece that they appear as deliberate artistic choices rather than mistakes. While perfection is unattainable in life, these 50 movies come astonishingly close.
Double Indemnity (1944)
Noir films often excel in their gritty, unpolished charm, thriving on a sense of urgency and resourcefulness. Classics like D.O.A. and Detour embody this spirit, feeling raw and unrefined due to tight budgets and schedules. Yet, Double Indemnity stands apart as a high-budget production from Paramount, featuring renowned stars and directed by the already celebrated Billy Wilder. Barbara Stanwyck delivers a mesmerizing performance as Phyllis Dietrichson, a classic femme fatale whose cunning and unforgettable hairstyle ensnare Fred MacMurray's Walter Neff in a murderous insurance scam. MacMurray, known for his everyman persona, portrays Neff with a mix of stoicism and underlying desire, making it entirely believable that he'd follow Phyllis into moral ruin. And honestly, you can't help but sympathize with his downfall. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Shining (1980)
Stephen King famously disapproved of Kubrick's take on his acclaimed novel, and it's easy to see why. In the book, Jack Torrance is portrayed as a fundamentally decent man whose struggles with addiction and the malevolent influence of the Overlook Hotel drive him to madness. While the novel is exceptional, the film's enduring appeal lies in the very aspect King disliked: Jack is unapologetically terrible from the start, with no redemption in sight. The hotel doesn't create his evil—it simply amplifies it. Shelley Duvall, often unfairly criticized, shines as Wendy, a woman visibly buckling under the strain of isolation and her husband's escalating insanity. Combined with Kubrick's meticulous and unsettling direction, the result is a timeless masterpiece of psychological horror. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)
Humphrey Bogart's undeniable charisma is the reason we can root for Fred C. Dobbs, one of cinema's most detestable characters, as he embarks on his gold-seeking journey. The film captures a distinctly American theme: the pursuit of wealth and the destructive power of greed. Dobbs and his companions venture into the Sierra Madre mountains lured by the promise of riches, but their descent into paranoia and avarice is both gripping and tragic. The irony is palpable—sharing the abundant gold would benefit everyone, yet their insatiable, distinctly American greed seals their fate. Released just before the Red Scare and HUAC's rise, the film feels eerily prophetic, especially given Bogart and Huston's later activism in defending civil liberties. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
Amid the flood of superhero films driven by commercial interests, a few stand out as true artistic achievements. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is one such gem, blending stunning animation with heartfelt storytelling. Its visual style is groundbreaking, and despite its complex plot involving multiple dimensions and Spider-People, the core remains a relatable tale of a teenager navigating identity and purpose in a chaotic world. It’s a vibrant, emotional, and visually dazzling triumph. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Sullivan’s Travels (1941)
Preston Sturges' brilliant screwball comedy stands as one of the finest creations of Hollywood's golden age, offering a clever defense of the studio system itself. The film follows a disillusioned director of slapstick comedies who seeks to understand real suffering for the sake of his next “serious” project. Sullivan’s Travels masterfully combines sharp, witty humor and quirky characters with poignant observations on class disparity and privilege, themes that remain strikingly relevant today. —Stephen Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
Produced in Australia with minimal funding, this sci-fi action masterpiece forever shaped the visual and thematic language of post-apocalyptic cinema. The film's high-octane car battles kick off right from the start, and director George Miller maintains relentless momentum until the very end. It’s a thrilling, pulse-pounding experience, yet it never sacrifices depth or intelligence for spectacle. —Stephen Johnson
Where to stream: Tubi
Amélie (2001)
Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s visually stunning romantic comedy is the ultimate celebration of French charm in cinema. While its whimsical tone might seem overwhelming at first, Amélie wins over even the most skeptical viewers with its genuine warmth and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a film that balances its fairy-tale-like qualities with an emotional core that never feels cloying. —Stephen Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Master (2012)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s exploration of the intricate bond between a 1950s cult leader and his troubled follower is mesmerizing in every scene. Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman deliver career-defining performances, while the film’s rich cinematography and meticulous period details transform post-war America into a vivid, living entity. Eschewing a conventional narrative, the film’s dreamlike, stream-of-consciousness approach lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. —Stephen Johnson
Where to stream: Tubi, The Criterion Channel
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966)
Sergio Leone’s masterpiece deconstructs the mythology of the American West, portraying cowboys as gritty, larger-than-life figures engaged in timeless battles, far removed from ordinary human concerns. With its iconic score, impeccable casting, and groundbreaking cinematography and editing, the film stands as one of the most monumental achievements in cinema history. —Stephen Johnson
Where to stream: Max
Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
Just as Dr. Frankenstein believes he’s done with his monstrous experiments, he’s drawn back into the fray. Director James Whale surpassed his earlier masterpiece with this sequel, crafting a film that’s funnier, stranger, and more overtly queer. Ernest Thesiger, a gay icon, steals scenes with his campy wit and manipulative charm, coaxing Frankenstein into reviving the dead once more. The film reaches its peak when Elsa Lanchester transforms from Mary Shelley into the iconic Bride, her electrifying presence creating a legend with mere minutes of screen time and no words. Whale’s playful direction, combined with meticulous attention to detail in the story, makeup, and sets, ensures the film never feels anything less than masterful. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
His Girl Friday (1940)
The sharp, witty essence of classic screwball comedies is epitomized by His Girl Friday. This film stands as one of the finest examples of the genre, thanks to director Howard Hawks’ insistence on breakneck dialogue delivery. Adapted from the dialogue-rich play The Front Page, which had already seen a film adaptation, this version elevates the material with its rapid-fire banter and impeccable timing.
This adaptation introduces key changes, most notably transforming the lead character Hildy Johnson into a woman. Played brilliantly by Rosalind Russell, Hildy is Cary Grant’s ex-wife but remains a fiercely determined reporter, outshining every man in the newsroom. The film maintains its momentum from start to finish, never missing a beat. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Vudu, Tubi, Crackle, Kanopy, Freevee, and several others
Citizen Kane (1941)
While Citizen Kane is widely celebrated as a cinematic masterpiece, its lofty reputation might deter some viewers who would otherwise find it thoroughly enjoyable. Beyond its greatness, the film is genuinely entertaining—visually stunning, innovative in style and technology, and filled with wit and humor. Its portrayal of a man whose idealism erodes under the weight of power and wealth remains strikingly relevant, offering a timeless critique of ambition and media influence. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Casablanca (1942)
Casablanca embodies the pinnacle of Hollywood’s golden age—a polished, masterfully crafted film that’s often underestimated. From its gripping opening chase through the streets of Casablanca to its iconic, emotionally resonant conclusion, every element shines. The chemistry among the cast, not just between Bogart and Bergman, is electric and unforgettable.
The film’s brilliance lies in its moral complexities: set in a shadowy world where even those doing the right thing are far from perfect. Rick Blaine, played by Bogart, is one of cinema’s most cherished figures, yet he avoids taking a stand against Axis powers until he has no other choice. This anti-heroic quality prevents the film from being overshadowed by its own technical perfection. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max
The Miracle of Morgan’s Creek (1944)
Films often reflect the era in which they were made, and comedies are particularly challenging. Humor frequently relies on defying societal norms, meaning what amuses one generation may fall flat for another. This makes it all the more impressive that Preston Sturges’ screwball comedy, nearly eight decades old, remains uproariously funny.
The storyline is surprisingly risqué for the 1940s: Trudy Kockenlocker, a small-town girl, celebrates with soldiers before they head off to war. After a night of heavy drinking, she wakes up married but can’t recall her husband’s name (“...it had a z in it. Like Ratzkywatzky. Or was it Zitzkywitzky?”). To make matters worse, she soon discovers she’s pregnant and has no marriage certificate.
The script, filled with innuendos and escalating absurdity, faced censorship challenges at the time. While tame by modern standards, it remains witty and hilarious. (For classic film enthusiasts who might argue that Sturges’ The Lady Eve deserves a spot on this list, I wouldn’t disagree.) —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Hoopla, Kanopy
The Set-Up (1949)
Director Robert Wise, often overlooked due to his versatility across genres, is best known for polished musicals like The Sound of Music and West Side Story. However, The Set-Up stands apart as a gritty, tense boxing noir. The film follows a washed-up boxer unknowingly set up to lose a fight. Assumed to be a guaranteed loser, he defies expectations, leading to a dark, unrelenting narrative that never eases its grip during its brisk 70-minute runtime. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Tubi
All About Eve (1950)
Widely regarded as featuring one of the greatest screenplays ever written, All About Eve is a biting Hollywood satire that feels both rooted in its time and eternally relevant. The film centers on the rivalry between Margo Channing, a seasoned actress portrayed with razor-sharp brilliance by Bette Davis, and Eve Harrington, a ruthless young aspirant played by Anne Baxter, who will stop at nothing to achieve stardom. Filled with sharp wit, biting cynicism, and stellar performances (the cast earned five Oscar nominations, and Marilyn Monroe shines in a brief role), All About Eve remains a must-watch for fans of dramatic, scandalous storytelling akin to Ryan Murphy’s work. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Digital rental
Rashômon (1950)
Akira Kurosawa’s Rashômon is one of the most revered films in cinematic history, its influence evident in countless imitations. The film’s groundbreaking narrative device—recounting the same events through the perspectives of multiple characters, each offering conflicting versions of the truth—has become a cultural touchstone. (For instance, The Last Duel was described as Ridley Scott’s homage to this “influential ode to subjectivity.”)
Toshiro Mifune stars as a woodcutter who stumbles upon a murdered samurai’s body in the forest. Alongside other witnesses, he recounts his version of events in court, with each testimony revealing a different interpretation of the truth. Despite being endlessly referenced and parodied in works like The Last Jedi and The Simpsons, the original remains a captivating masterpiece. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Criterion Channel, Kanopy, Tubi, Max
Rear Window (1954)
Hitchcock’s Rear Window is a masterful exploration of voyeurism, reflecting our innate curiosity about others’ lives. The film’s meticulous craftsmanship is matched by its playful critique of the audience’s own nosy tendencies. Its timeless line, “What people ought to do is get outside their own house and look in for a change,” remains as relevant today as it was in 1954. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Pather Panchali (1955)
Satyajit Ray’s Pather Panchali broke away from India’s traditional focus on musicals and adventure films, offering a starkly realistic yet visually stunning portrayal of rural life. The film transcends its setting, capturing universal themes of family struggles while remaining deeply rooted in 1950s India. Its brilliance lies in making the past feel immediate, erasing the gap between its era and the modern world. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel, Tubi, Kanopy
The Seventh Seal (1957)
Ingmar Bergman’s reputation for somber themes is partly justified by The Seventh Seal, which features a haunting chess match with Death set against a plague-stricken medieval backdrop. Yet, the film is also filled with striking beauty and deeply human moments. Bergman’s focus is on exploration rather than providing answers, but the film suggests that love, intimacy, and family, even in the face of mortality, are profoundly meaningful. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel, Kanopy
The Lion in Winter (1968)
Move over, Die Hard—The Lion in Winter is my ultimate Christmas film. This medieval drama focuses on the verbal sparring between Peter O’Toole’s Henry II and Katharine Hepburn’s Eleanor of Aquitaine as they gather in Touraine, France, to debate politics and the royal succession. Henry favors his son John (Nigel Terry) for the throne, while Eleanor champions their son Richard (Anthony Hopkins).
The intrigue deepens with the involvement of King Philip of France (Timothy Dalton), but the heart of the film lies in the brilliantly written exchanges between Henry and Eleanor. These verbal battles, adapted from James Goldman’s Oscar-winning play, are more captivating than any physical conflict. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Digital rental
Alien (1979)
A B-movie concept elevated by exceptional talent, Alien is a landmark in both science fiction and horror. The film boasts a stellar cast of soon-to-be legends, portraying working-class astronauts abandoned by their employer to face a deadly threat. H.R. Giger’s iconic creature design remains unmatched in its originality and otherworldly terror, cementing the film’s status as a genre-defining classic. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Hulu
Back to the Future (1985)
A triumph of screenwriting, Back to the Future seamlessly ties together every joke and plot detail, juggling the arcs of numerous characters across multiple timelines without a misstep. While its flawless structure is impressive, the film’s enduring charm lies in Christopher Lloyd’s wild energy and Michael J. Fox’s effortless charisma, both of which bring life and flair to the intricate, tightly woven narrative. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Spike Lee’s third film, often regarded as his magnum opus, is set in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood during an intensely hot summer day. Do the Right Thing delves into the racial tensions exacerbated by gentrification, biased policing, and widespread prejudice. While the central conflict revolves around the Black community and the Italian-American owners of Sal’s pizzeria, the film shines in its portrayal of everyday life and the ways systemic injustice pushes people to act, even when they prefer peace. Vibrant, humorous, and deeply human, it’s a hangout film with profound insights into American society—and, three decades later, its message remains strikingly pertinent. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Digital rental
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Could this be the greatest romantic comedy of all time? It’s certainly a film without a single weak moment. While its views on gender dynamics may feel a bit outdated—centering on the idea that men and women can’t truly be friends due to romantic tension—the bond between Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) is both relatable and timeless. Directed by Rob Reiner during his incredible creative streak (which also produced The Princess Bride), and featuring a razor-sharp script by Nora Ephron, it’s arguably the most rewatchable movie ever made. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Digital rental
Home Alone (1990)
This holiday favorite, often criticized for its over-the-top antics, remains a flawless execution of its comedic mission—which explains why Kevin’s (Macaulay Culkin) iconic scream still resonates decades later. While the premise is far from realistic (how could parents forget a child? Why are the burglars so inept?), the film’s charm lies in its absurdity. From Kevin’s creative booby traps to Catherine O’Hara’s heartfelt performance as his frantic mother, the movie balances slapstick humor with genuine emotion, culminating in a heartwarming Christmas reunion. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Disney+
Groundhog Day (1993)
Much like Rashômon, Groundhog Day introduced a narrative device that has since become a storytelling staple. However, the original remains unmatched. Bill Murray stars as Phil Connors, a cynical weatherman trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day in Punxsutawney, PA, until he learns to become a better person. The film is both a high-concept romantic comedy and a profound meditation on self-improvement and the fleeting nature of life. While Phil’s romantic arc is satisfying, the film’s deeper philosophical questions make it endlessly rewatchable. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Haunting (1963)
Robert Wise, a director who excelled in multiple genres, delivered a horror masterpiece with this adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House. The film is a chilling, unsettling, and oddly poignant exploration of a haunted house and its impact on Julie Harris’s Nell, a profoundly lonely woman struggling to connect with others. While a potential romance with Claire Bloom’s Theo flickers, the film’s true heart lies in Nell’s eerie bond with the house. Though the Mike Flanagan Netflix series offers a fresh take on Jackson’s novel, the 1999 remake pales in comparison. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Night of the Hunter (1955)
Charles Laughton directed only one film in his career, and after its harsh reception, he never made another. Despite initial criticism, Night of the Hunter has become a timeless classic, celebrated for its striking visuals, dark humor, and Robert Mitchum’s unforgettable portrayal of Harry Powell, a murderous preacher who believes himself a righteous hero. The film’s exploration of religious hypocrisy and its haunting atmosphere have cemented its place as a masterpiece, even if audiences of its time failed to appreciate it. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Tubi
The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
Set in the aftermath of World War II, this poignant drama examines the challenges faced by three veterans returning to civilian life. Al, a former banker, grapples with alcoholism and his leniency toward fellow vets; Fred battles PTSD and unemployment; and Homer, a double amputee, struggles with societal pity. Featuring stellar performances by Fredric March, Dana Andrews, and real-life veteran Harold Russell, the film offers a raw and empathetic portrayal of post-war struggles. Its foresight into the enduring difficulties of veterans remains remarkably relevant. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Prime Video, Peacock, Freevee
The Princess Bride (1987)
A universally beloved film, Rob Reiner’s The Princess Bride, adapted from William Goldman’s novel, is a rare gem that truly offers something for everyone. Goldman’s witty, endlessly quotable script seamlessly blends action, fantasy, romance, and humor into a cohesive and delightful experience. From thrilling sword fights to heartfelt moments, every scene is unforgettable, making it a timeless classic. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max
The Others (2001)
Alejandro Amenábar’s gothic horror film The Others remains impactful even after multiple viewings, despite its famous twist. Set in a sprawling mansion on the Channel Islands during World War II, the story follows Grace (Nicole Kidman), a mother whose grip on reality begins to unravel as strange occurrences plague her home. Kidman’s compelling performance and Amenábar’s direction ensure that Grace, though flawed, remains a sympathetic and fascinating character throughout. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Harlan County, USA (1976)
This documentary captures the intense Brookside Strike in Harlan County, Kentucky, as it unfolded. Initially, director Barbara Kopple aimed to expose the corruption of United Mine Workers leader W.A. Boyle, who was later convicted for conspiracy in a family murder. However, the film shifted focus to the harrowing struggles of striking miners and their families, who faced violent opposition from mine owners. Kopple’s decision to center the narrative on the local community ensures the film remains a powerful and timeless exploration of labor rights and corporate exploitation. —Ross Johnson
Kopple’s intimate portrayal of the strikers and their families makes Harlan County, USA a compelling and enduring work. The film not only highlights corporate greed but also serves as a snapshot of a time when unions wielded significant influence. Its relevance persists, offering both a historical record and a call to action. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel
Sounder (1972)
Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield deliver powerhouse performances in this 1933-set drama about a Louisiana sharecropper family. When Nathan, the father, is unjustly imprisoned, Rebecca (Tyson) must hold the family together. While racism drives the plot, the film transcends being a mere critique of it, focusing instead on the resilience and humanity of the family. Lonne Elder III’s screenplay, along with Tyson and Winfield’s performances, earned the film multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, though it didn’t win any. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Prime Video, Peacock, Tubi, Freevee
Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s Halloween redefined the slasher genre, blending tension, suspense, and a chillingly enigmatic villain in Michael Myers. Unlike more straightforward horror films, Carpenter’s direction and Debra Hill’s co-writing bring depth to the characters, particularly Jamie Lee Curtis’s Laurie Strode. Michael Myers, a cipher of evil, draws inspiration from Carpenter’s own experiences with racial violence, adding layers to his menace. This duality—universal evil versus specific insidiousness—has cemented Myers as an enduring horror icon. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Shudder, Crackle, AMC+
Black Narcissus (1947)
The collaboration between Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger produced some of the most visually breathtaking films in cinema history, such as The Red Shoes and A Matter of Life and Death. Among these, Black Narcissus, shot by the legendary Jack Cardiff, stands out as perhaps the most exquisite. Its beauty contrasts sharply with its haunting narrative about nuns establishing a school in a remote Himalayan palace. What begins as an uplifting tale gradually morphs into a psychological drama tinged with horror, as the isolation and stark surroundings unravel the characters. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel, Tubi, Freevee, Shout Factory TV
Eve’s Bayou (1997)
Eve’s Bayou, Kasi Lemmons’ stunning directorial debut, immerses viewers in a world of southern gothic mystique and enchantment, while staying deeply rooted in the emotional truths of its characters. Jurnee Smollett stars as Eve, who opens the film with a startling confession: she killed her father at age ten. The story navigates complex, dark themes with a Rashômon-like exploration of memory’s fluidity and how time and perspective reshape our understanding of events. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Freevee, Mubi, Starz
The Truman Show (1998)
The Truman Show is remarkable not only for its prescient commentary on reality TV and our obsession with curated lives but also for its poignant exploration of self-discovery and the search for meaning. Jim Carrey delivers a career-defining performance as Truman Burbank, a man unknowingly living his life as the star of a global reality show. Peter Weir’s direction balances the surreal and the heartfelt, making this sci-fi fable a timeless reflection on identity and freedom. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Paramount+
All About My Mother (1999)
Pedro Almodóvar’s films are vibrant, bold, and unpredictable, making the term “flawless” seem inadequate. All About My Mother redefines melodrama, blending humor, queerness, and a celebration of motherhood in a story about a grieving mother who finds an unexpected family in Barcelona. Almodóvar’s signature style ensures the film is anything but dull. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Sixth Sense (1999)
While the twist ending of The Sixth Sense is legendary, the film’s brilliance extends far beyond it. Even without the final reveal, this story of a boy (Haley Joel Osment) who communicates with ghosts and the psychologist (Bruce Willis) aiding him remains a masterclass in emotional horror. M. Night Shyamalan’s direction and storytelling set a standard he’s yet to surpass, making this a near-perfect film. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: FXNow, Fubo
The Matrix (1999)
It’s almost unnecessary to explain why The Matrix is a masterpiece. Beyond the debates and polarizing sequels, the original stands as a timeless fusion of martial arts, anime-inspired visuals, cutting-edge sci-fi, and profound philosophical themes. Its brilliance only grows with time. Whoa. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Max, Netflix
Spirited Away (2001)
Hayao Miyazaki’s dedication to animation as an art form shines through every frame of Spirited Away. The film’s meticulous detail is so immersive that it feels like stepping into a living, breathing world. While many of Miyazaki’s works are masterpieces, this tale of a lonely child navigating a magical, eerie realm stands out for its emotional depth and beauty. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max
Memento (2001)
Christopher Nolan’s breakout film, Memento, is a gripping crime thriller that unfolds in reverse, following a man with no short-term memory as he searches for his wife’s killer. The narrative structure is a masterstroke, leaving viewers in awe of how Nolan seamlessly weaves the story together. Even after multiple viewings, the film’s brilliance remains as captivating as a perfectly executed magic trick. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Peacock, Freevee, The Roku Channel, Pluto TV
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
This unconventional romantic drama defies genre norms, presenting a couple (Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet) whose relationship is clearly doomed, yet we root for them anyway. Michel Gondry’s direction infuses the story with a quirky, handmade aesthetic, as the pair uses experimental technology to erase each other from their memories. Despite the procedure’s risks, their connection persists, suggesting that even flawed love is worth holding onto. Charlie Kaufman’s screenplay, which could easily feel convoluted or cynical, instead delivers one of the most poignant tales of love and loss ever told. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Starz
No Country for Old Men (2007)
The Coen brothers’ adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s novel is a masterclass in tension and precision, though its unrelenting bleakness makes it a challenging rewatch. The film follows a chain of violence triggered by a botched drug deal, with Josh Brolin’s small-time criminal hunted by Javier Bardem’s chilling, almost otherworldly assassin. Set against the desolate backdrop of the American West, it’s a stark meditation on fate, choice, and the inevitability of chaos. Bardem’s performance, paired with the Coens’ meticulous direction, cements this as a modern classic. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: PlutoTV
Get Out (2018)
If you missed the cultural phenomenon surrounding Get Out—its box office triumph, awards buzz, and instant meme fame—you might wonder how Jordan Peele became a horror icon with just one film. But for those who experienced it, the impact was undeniable.
This chilling sci-fi tale unfolds like a modern Twilight Zone episode, as a young Black man (Daniel Kaluuya) visits his white girlfriend’s affluent family estate, only to uncover unsettling secrets. Peele’s sharp script combines dark humor with genuine terror, crafting a powerful allegory for the Black experience in a supposedly post-racial America. The film exposes the hypocrisy of those who deny systemic racism while perpetuating it in insidious ways. —Joel Cunningham
Where to stream: Prime Video, FXNow, Tubi, Prime Video
Weekend (2011)
Andrew Haigh’s Weekend brings a refreshing authenticity to queer cinema, focusing on the evolving connection between Tom Cullen and Chris New’s characters. What begins as a casual hook-up turns into a meaningful exploration of identity and intimacy over the course of a weekend. The film captures the nuances of gay life without resorting to clichés or stereotypes, presenting a story that feels both specific and universal. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: The Criterion Channel, Mubi
Happy Together (1997)
Wong Kar-wai’s Happy Together is a visually stunning and emotionally raw portrayal of a turbulent relationship. Leslie Cheung and Tony Leung Chiu-wai play a couple whose love-hate dynamic unravels during their time in Argentina. Despite their toxic codependency, their passionate connection is magnetic, making their struggles both heartbreaking and captivating. The film’s cinematography is a masterpiece, with each frame resembling a work of art. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel
Knives Out (2019)
While ensemble murder mysteries are nothing new, Rian Johnson’s Knives Out reinvigorates the genre with sharp wit and modern flair. Balancing the playful charm of classic whodunits with biting social commentary, the film delves into the twisted dynamics of a wealthy family while delivering a thoroughly satisfying conclusion. It’s a fresh, stylish take that both honors and subverts the traditions of the genre. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Digital rental
Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a bold, genre-defying masterpiece that dismantles societal structures with precision and flair. Starting as a dark comedy and evolving into a gripping thriller, the film’s unpredictable twists and turns keep viewers on edge. Bong masterfully navigates each narrative shift, creating a thrilling and thought-provoking experience that challenges the foundations of class and privilege. —Ross Johnson
Where to stream: Max
