Top 25 of all time

On my first viewing of Sicario, as the end credits rolled, I realised I hadn't taken my eyes off the screen for a second since the opening scene. If Denis Villeneuve is a master of one thing, it is undoubtedly tension and raw intensity, and this is realised to its maximum degree here. Villeneuve unflinchingly presents the devastating impact of drug cartels on both sides of the border, making for a visceral viewing experience, showcasing the complexities and moral ambiguities that define this brutal war. The main cast all deliver exceptional performances, with del Toro's enigmatic Alejandro proving to be a standout. To me, Sicario stands as an entrancing, unsettling and sinister portrayal of the war on drugs, framed from multiple perspectives to leave you wondering whether there is room for hope in a land of wolves.

This entry is really representative of the whole trilogy, which is unquestionably the best trilogy of all time for me. It's simply an unparalleled achievement in cinematic storytelling, weaving a truly epic tapestry of world-building, atmosphere, and characters. I could talk about the breathtaking visuals, which draw you in and immerse you in the vast and beautiful world of middle earth, or the incredible battle scenes that benefit from the ubiquitous use of practical effects, making every uruk breath and sword clash feel real. But for me, what really elevates the narrative to a masterpiece is its embrace of profound, universal themes: the corrupting allure of power, the tension between good and evil, the resilience of hope, and the inevitability of fate. Each character’s journey transcends the physical path taken, becoming a meditation on higher themes such as faith, sacrifice, and the human spirit's capacity to endure. With its further richly layered allegories to religion, industrialism, and morality, the trilogy stands as a timeless exploration of the battle for the soul, and I surmise that we'd all like to think we see a bit of ourselves in Frodo.

One of the most intense movies I've ever experienced. This film delves into the darkest corners of human nature, striking up a palpable sense of dread with its morally ambiguous characters, underscored by Deakins' bleak, rain-soaked cinematography and Jóhann Jóhannsson's foreboding and evocative soundtrack. Watch for career best acting performances, a haunting and darkly crafted atmosphere that never loses its grip, and a plot whose blurred lines and dark turns will have you questioning your own moral compass.

Incredibly amusing characters, refreshingly witty dialogue, a winding non-linear narrative with multiple story arcs, all presented with the style and flair of a true virtuoso. This is Tarantino's crowning glory, and I can't help but watch with a smile.

A story within a story, masterfully delivered in poetic art-house fashion. This film contains so many metaphors, layers of subtext and differing interpretations that every viewing leaves me reflecting on something new. Furthermore, the score is sensational and all the lead actors deliver powerhouse performances.

An incredibly intriguing film that explores alien contact in a very original way. Through this setting, the film touches upon many thought-provoking areas, but ultimately I think it serves as a reflection on the human experience. As well as being masterfully directed, it has some of the most gorgeous shots I've seen in film, whilst the score strikes a perfect harmony with the atmosphere of the film.

A journey into the psyche of a dispirited young man as he is driven down a path of spiritual redemption in the face of a lifetime of slavery to modern society. This film has it all, from humour and conflict to social commentary and a shocking twist, it is a unique offering that should not be missed.

A wonderfully shot film that is rich in style and full of life. This unique Brazilian twist on the classic gangster movie hits as hard as it does due to the realistic and deep characters throughout that find strength through desperation. The film's personality will capture your heart, but make no mistake, at no point does it hesitate to showcase the true brutality of the favela environment.

A dark and disturbing masterpiece. This film ties together a variety of contrasting dynamics, with moral and philosophical themes, through its intelligent script and rich characters, making the film as cerebral as it is engrossing.

I could call this the greatest superhero movie of all time, but it is so much more than that. It transcends the superhero genre as a first-rate example of film-making, and as a dexterous examination of the duality of good vs evil, hero vs villain, and anarchy vs order.

Of all the films I've watched, none have grown on me over time like Blade Runner has. Initially unimpressed, something about it kept it lingering in the back of my mind and I couldn't help but go back to re-watch it over and over, each time growing in appreciation for the visual beauty and thematic elements that make this now a personal favourite, and something that I think can be best described as a flawed masterpiece. Whilst the heart of the film lies in the dichotomy of evolved vs designed intelligence, the blurred line between human and synthetic self-awareness, and whether biological humans are different from replicants in any morally significant way, it also touches on countless other topics, from the dehumanisation of society and capitalist greed, to personal identity, memories and purpose, and it does so with stunning imagery and a powerful score that is beautifully wistful and ominously futuristic.

Probably the most quotable movie I've ever seen, Snatch pairs an incredibly snappy script, fantastically funny characters, and the signature Guy Ritchie style to make a film that I will never ever get tired of re-watching.

A brilliantly sharp yet brooding script, a desolate but beautifully captured backdrop, and one of the most chilling villains in film history all work together to draw you in and keep you on edge for the entire length of this film.

As a psychological slow-burn, that is at its heart a meditation on Artificial Intelligence and consciousness itself, this film sets up numerous philosophical questions concerning cutting-edge science and technology that will only become more relevant in the coming years. Whilst the isolated setting and eerie atmosphere amplifies the intensity of the psychological tension, the film explores the intricate nuances of what it means to be truly sentient, forcing you to examine your own perspective on the boundaries of human consciousness and the implications of creating artificially intelligent beings. The foremost criticism would be that some aspects of the plot are a little contrived, but if you are the sort of viewer that is willing to suspend disbelief to arrive at the allegorical conclusion, you will most likely be fascinated and left in deep thought by this one.

A spectacular yet devastating masterpiece. This film couples powerful imagery with some truly visceral moments, then ties up with one of the hardest hitting endings I've ever seen in a film. I wish I could see this one again for the first time.

A modern re-imagination of James Bond as a more realistic and humanised character. Daniel Craig manages to deliver a complex Bond with many layers and subtleties, whilst the intricate yet compact plot keeps you engaged, taking place across a series of luxurious settings and captured in brilliant style.

An intricate and seductive masterclass in visual storytelling. The viewer is sucked into an atmosphere that is both beautiful and oppressive, with the film exploring the juxtaposition of tender romance and ruthless manipulation, backed by an all round showcase in filmmaking.

More representative of the Bourne Trilogy as a whole, I look at these films through rose-tinted glasses since they were childhood favourites, but even despite that they stand as a fantastic and original take on the spy thriller genre, offering a more grounded and realistic take. The pacing is perfect which brings intensity and a plot that never slows, the action is gritty and almost everything is practical effects, and the script is intelligent which brings depth and requires a thinking viewer.

One of the most original and mind-blowing movies around. Just when you think the narrative couldn't possibly grow any more complex, it delves deeper still into the human mind. Topped off with thrilling set pieces and spectacular visuals, make sure you bring your undivided attention to this one.

A twisting narrative that explores vengeance, despair, and the fragility of the human spirit. With stunning direction and entrancing visuals, it draws you into a moral labyrinth of painful beauty. The film’s raw intensity and thematic weight linger long after it ends, delivering an experience that is as devastating as it is unforgettable.

When I first watched this film a lot of what was happening went over my head completely, but I knew I loved it nonetheless. Many, many rewatches later I finally understand everything and I love it just as much. Probably a bit of a hidden gem, but a real tour de force in directing and acting from one hell of a line-up.

A tender exploration of love, art, and longing, rendered with stunning emotional precision. Every frame truly feels like a painting in this film, elevating the deeply intimate narrative that captures the fragile beauty of connection and the pain of inevitable loss. This is cinema at its most delicate and devastating - a genuine and deeply moving masterpiece that will always linger in my mind.