American Film Institute Top 100 Movies

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on the 1982 Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. The film stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly convicted of murder and subsequently sent to the Shawshank State Penitentiary. There, he meets Ellis "Red" Redding, a prisoner who becomes his closest friend and confidant. As Andy adjusts to life inside the prison walls, he gradually finds hope and eventually comes to be respected by his fellow inmates, even forming a long-lasting friendship with Red. As time passes, Andy finds ways to pass the time and even begins smuggling money from outside sources into the prison. Eventually, Andy comes up with a daring plan to escape from Shawshank and sets out to prove his innocence. The film follows Andy's journey of survival, redemption, and hope.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful Mafia organization in New York City headed by patriarch Vito Corleone. After Vito's death, his youngest son Michael steps up to take control of the family business. Michael attempts to leave the criminal life behind, but is forced to take over the family business when the other crime families threaten to destroy the Corleones. He embarks on a ruthless campaign of revenge, eliminating all his rivals and transforming the Corleone family into the most powerful crime syndicate in the country. The film focuses on Michael's transformation from a reluctant outsider to a ruthless mob boss, as well as the complex moral dilemmas he faces in his efforts to maintain a legacy of honor and loyalty in the mafia world.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley, Caroline Goodall
Rated R

Schindler's List is a 1993 American historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the novel Schindler's Ark by Australian novelist Thomas Keneally. The film follows the true story of Oskar Schindler, an ethnic German businessman in World War II-era Kraków, who becomes determined to save his Jewish employees from the Nazi concentration camps. It stars Liam Neeson in the title role, alongside Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley, and Caroline Goodall. The film was a critical and commercial success, and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Score. It also received numerous other awards and nominations, and has since been widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. The film's subject became widely known due to its commercial success, and is often considered a modern classic.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather Part II is a crime drama directed by Francis Ford Coppola and is the sequel to The Godfather. The film follows Michael Corleone as he attempts to expand the Corleone crime family's power and influence in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Along with the main plot, the film also follows the story of Michael's father, Vito Corleone, from his childhood in Sicily to his rise as the original Don. As the two stories intertwine, Michael struggles to maintain the family's power while Vito gradually builds the foundation of the Corleone empire. With the help of consigliere Tom Hagen, Michael is able to survive the many threats to the Corleone family and eventually takes over as the Don. The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is considered one of the greatest films of all time.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, John Fiedler
Rated Approved

12 Angry Men is a classic courtroom drama that follows a jury of 12 men as they deliberate over a murder trial. The defendant is a young man from a slum accused of killing his father, and all the evidence suggests he is guilty. However, one juror stands up and insists that they discuss the case further before coming to a conclusion. The ensuing deliberations bring out the prejudices and preconceived notions of the jurors, as well as the cracks in their logic, and the story delves into the dynamics of a jury room and the difficulty of achieving a unanimous verdict. In the end, even the most prejudiced jurors come to the realization that a man's life is on the line, and they must be certain of his guilt before passing judgment.

From Quentin Tarantino, starring John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, Bruce Willis
Rated R

Pulp Fiction is the story of two Los Angeles mob hitmen, Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield, who are sent out to retrieve a briefcase for their boss, Marsellus Wallace. Along the way, they get caught up in a series of entanglements with various criminals, resulting in a series of hilarious and violent events. Meanwhile, Vincent's friend, Mia Wallace, is stuck in a precarious situation when she accidentally overdoses on a mysterious drug. The film follows these characters as their misadventures weave together to form a single, larger story. The movie features an ensemble cast of iconic actors, clever dialogue, and a unique, non-linear storytelling structure. It is a classic classic tale of crime and redemption that has become one of Quentin Tarantino's most iconic films.

From Peter Jackson, starring Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Sean Bean
Rated PG-13

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a 2001 epic fantasy film directed by Peter Jackson, based on the novel of the same name by J. R. R. Tolkien. The film follows a small fellowship of hobbits, elves, dwarves, and men as they undertake a quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron. Led by the hobbit Frodo Baggins, they must travel across Middle-earth to reach the land of Mordor and destroy the Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. Along the way, they encounter many dangerous foes including orcs, Ringwraiths, and the wizard Saruman. The film features an ensemble cast including Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Cate Blanchett, and Orlando Bloom. The Fellowship of the Ring was a critical and commercial success, earning more than $870 million at the box office and winning four Academy Awards.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Sally Field
Rated PG-13

Forrest Gump is a 1994 American comedy-drama film starring Tom Hanks as the titular character. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, it is based on the 1986 novel of the same name by Winston Groom, and tells the story of Forrest, a naïve and slow-witted but kind-hearted man from Alabama, who witnesses and unwittingly influences several defining historical events in the 20th century. The film follows Forrest's journey through life as he meets various people along the way, all while struggling to maintain relationships with his best friend, Jenny, who he has loved since childhood. Through his simplicity and kindheartedness, Forrest is able to touch the lives of many people, including an Army lieutenant, a hippie couple, and a business tycoon. It also explores themes of destiny and innocence, as Forrest is while he is unaware of the impact his actions have on the people around him. Forrest eventually finds success in life through his business, the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, and reunites with the love of his life, Jenny, at the end of the film.

From Milos Forman, starring Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher, Michael Berryman, Peter Brocco
Rated R

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975), directed by Milos Forman, is a drama set in a mental institution in Oregon. It follows a criminal, Randle McMurphy, who feigns insanity in order to escape prison labor. However, upon his entry to the institution, he quickly learns that the oppressive Nurse Ratched has complete control over its inmates. McMurphy rebels against Ratched and begins to rally the other patients to fight for their freedom. After a series of confrontations with Ratched, McMurphy ultimately succeeds in liberating his fellow inmates and reuniting them with the outside world. The film ultimately serves as a powerful statement about the fragility of life and the importance of standing up for one’s rights.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco
Rated R

Goodfellas is a 1990 crime film directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi. The film follows the life of Henry Hill, a young man from an Italian-American family who rises through the ranks of the New York mob in the 1950s and 60s. Along with his friends Jimmy Conway and Tommy DeVito, Henry soon becomes an important member of the Lucchese crime family. However, the life of money and power comes at a cost, and Henry eventually finds himself on the wrong side of the law. The story follows Henry's rise and fall in the criminal underworld and his complicated relationships with his friends, family and the law.

From George Lucas, starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness
Rated PG

Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977) tells the story of Luke Skywalker, an orphan farmboy living on the desolate planet of Tatooine. He discovers that he has a destiny beyond his wildest dreams when he meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, an old hermit who reveals to Luke that he is a Jedi Knight and that his father was once a powerful Jedi who fought in the Clone Wars. Obi-Wan gives Luke his father's lightsaber and tells him the tragic story of how the evil Empire destroyed the Jedi and conquered the galaxy. Luke joins forces with the Rebellion and their fearless leader, Princess Leia, to try and overthrow the Empire. Together, they embark on an epic adventure that includes rescuing the princess from the Empire’s clutches, battling the evil Darth Vader, and destroying the Empire’s ultimate weapon, the Death Star. Along the way, Luke learns the ways of the Force and ultimately discovers his true identity as a Jedi Knight.

From Frank Capra, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell
Rated PG

It's a Wonderful Life is a classic 1946 American Christmas fantasy drama film directed by Frank Capra, based on the short story "The Greatest Gift" by Philip Van Doren Stern. The film stars James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore. The film follows George Bailey, a man from the small town of Bedford Falls, who has dedicated his life to his family and his hometown. George is on the verge of suicide, overwhelmed by a major financial crisis, when an angel named Clarence appears to show him what life would have been like had he never been born. Through a series of flashbacks, George is shown how his life has had a positive impact on his family, friends and neighbours. In the end, George learns the valuable lesson that his life is indeed worthwhile. Through the miracle of Christmas, George's wish is granted, and he is able to save his family and his town from financial ruin.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Tom Sizemore, Edward Burns
Rated R

Saving Private Ryan is a 1998 American epic war film set during the invasion of Normandy in World War II. The film follows United States Army Rangers Captain John H. Miller (Tom Hanks) and his squad as they search for a paratrooper, Private First Class James Francis Ryan (Matt Damon), who is the last surviving brother of four servicemen. Captain Miller and his men fight through the Normandy countryside in search of Ryan, while struggling with the reality of wartime and its consequences. Along the way, they face overwhelming odds, personal sacrifice, and a multitude of moral challenges as they battle their way through enemy lines. Ultimately, the squad is successful in their mission and Private Ryan is brought home safely.

From Jonathan Demme, starring Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Lawrence A. Bonney, Kasi Lemmons
Rated R

The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological thriller directed by Jonathan Demme, released in 1991 and based on the novel by Thomas Harris. The film follows the story of Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a rookie FBI agent who is assigned to interview and find assistance from the brilliant yet disturbed psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a former doctor and cannibalistic serial killer, in order to apprehend another serial killer, Buffalo Bill. Through her interactions with Lecter, Clarice begins to understand her own inner demons and use this knowledge to gain insight into the psychology of Buffalo Bill. In the end, Clarice is able to apprehend Buffalo Bill, but only after a thrilling, suspenseful and ultimately tragic showdown.

From Michael Curtiz, starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains
Rated PG

Casablanca is a classic romantic drama set during the Second World War. The story follows Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), the owner of a nightclub in the Moroccan city of Casablanca. Rick is a bitter and cynical man who has become a reluctant hero as he finds himself involved in a dangerous political struggle when two of his old lovers arrive in Casablanca. He must choose between helping the woman he loves, Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman), reunite with her husband, a resistance leader, or helping the authorities capture the husband. In the end, Rick sacrifices his own happiness for the greater good. Through the course of the story, Rick learns to embrace selflessness and love despite his own personal struggles.

From Charles Chaplin, starring Charles Chaplin, Virginia Cherrill, Florence Lee, Harry Myers
Rated G

"City Lights" is a classic romantic comedy directed by Charles Chaplin and released in 1931. In the film, Chaplin’s iconic character ‘The Little Tramp’ falls in love with a young blind flower girl. To fulfill her dream of being able to see again, he tries to raise enough money for her to have an operation. Throughout his journey, he must endure various trials and tribulations, while also trying to stay out of trouble with the police. In the end, the Little Tramp succeeds in his mission and the flower girl regains her sight. The film ends with a touching scene of the two embracing and the flower girl discovering the true identity of her savior.

From Alfred Hitchcock, starring Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin
Rated R

Psycho is a classic horror film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, released in 1960. The film follows Marion Crane, a young woman who is on the run after stealing money from her place of work. She eventually finds refuge at the dilapidated Bates Motel, owned by the strange and mysterious Norman Bates. Her stay at the motel leads to a terrifying series of events, as the secrets of Norman's past come to light. The film is notable for its innovative use of suspense and shock, as well as its iconic shower scene. Psycho is considered to be one of the most influential horror films of all time and is a classic of the genre.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall, Frederic Forrest
Rated R

Apocalypse Now is a 1979 American epic war film directed, produced, and co-written by Francis Ford Coppola. It stars Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall, Frederic Forrest, Albert Hall, Harrison Ford, and Laurence Fishburne. The film follows the central character, Army Captain Benjamin Willard (Sheen) on a secret mission to assassinate the renegade and presumed insane U.S. Army Special Forces Colonel Walter E. Kurtz (Brando). The story is set during the Vietnam War and is based on Joseph Conrad's novella Heart of Darkness. The film follows Willard as he and his crew travel upriver from South Vietnam into Cambodia in a U.S. Navy PBR (Patrol Boat River). Along the way they encounter a variety of characters, including a USO show, a young Photojournalist, and a crazed US Air Cavalry Officer. As Willard's mission progresses, he is faced with moral dilemmas, insanity, and the horror of the war. In the end, Willard is forced to confront Kurtz and decide whether to kill him or not.

From Alfred Hitchcock, starring James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey, Thelma Ritter
Rated PG

Rear Window is a 1954 mystery-thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring James Stewart, Grace Kelly, and Raymond Burr. The story follows a wheelchair-bound photographer who spies on his neighbors from his apartment window and becomes convinced one of them has committed murder. As he investigates further, he puts himself and his girlfriend in danger. With intense suspense, nail-biting suspense, and clever dialogue, Rear Window is considered one of Hitchcock's greatest films and is often regarded as one of the greatest films of all time.

From Charles Chaplin, starring Charles Chaplin, Paulette Goddard, Henry Bergman, Tiny Sandford
Rated G

Modern Times is a 1936 comedy film written, directed and starring the legendary Charlie Chaplin. The film follows Chaplin's iconic character, the Tramp, as he struggles to survive in the modern industrialized world. The Tramp works as an assembly line worker in a factory, where he is subjected to ever-increasing automation. He also falls in love with a young woman, Paulette Goddard, and attempts to find work as a singer. Despite the many challenges he faces, the Tramp remains optimistic and resilient as he learns to adjust to the modern world. The film is a mixture of comedy and social commentary, which reveals the struggles of those living in poverty during the Great Depression. Modern Times is a classic comedy that has been celebrated for its timeless humor and its insight into the human condition.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn
Rated PG

Dr. Strangelove is a 1964 black comedy film directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Peter Sellers. The film follows an unhinged United States Air Force General, Jack D. Ripper, who orders a nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. The President of the United States and his advisors, including the titular Dr. Strangelove, attempt to recall the bombers to prevent a potential nuclear holocaust. The film satirizes the Cold War fears of a nuclear conflict between the two superpowers. The film is also notable for its use of dark humor to make its points, as well as its irreverent treatment of serious subjects.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman, John Rhys-Davies
Rated PG

Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark is an action-adventure film from 1981, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford in the title role. The film follows archaeologist Dr. Indiana Jones as he attempts to beat the Nazis to the discovery of the lost Ark of the Covenant, an artifact able to wipe out its enemies and give its holders immense power. Along the way, Indy must battle snakes, outwit traps, and duel with enemy agents. With the help of his former lover Marion, Indy must find a way to keep the Ark out of Nazi hands and save the world.

From Orson Welles, starring Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten, Dorothy Comingore, Agnes Moorehead
Rated PG

Citizen Kane tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper magnate who, in the last moments of his life, utters the single word "Rosebud." As the film progresses, a reporter attempts to uncover the mysterious meaning behind Kane's final utterance. The film examines Kane's life from childhood to his final moments, taking a look at his seemingly idyllic life, his business dealings, his rise to power, his failed marriages and his relationships with friends and family. Along the way, the reporter discovers that Kane was driven by an insatiable craving for power and control, but in the end, he remains an enigma. As the film reaches its conclusion, the reporter finds that the meaning of "Rosebud" is something that only Kane understood.

From Directors: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly, starring Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen
Rated G

Singin' in the Rain is a classic Hollywood musical from 1952, directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly. It follows the story of Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), a silent movie star struggling to transition to the new ‘talkies’ era of film-making. Along the way, he falls in love with Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), a young actress with a powerful singing voice. The two must confront the obstacles of the new film-making era as they balance the demands of the industry with their love for each other. The film features some of the greatest musical numbers of all time, including the title song, ‘Good Morning’, and the iconic ‘Singin’ in the Rain’. It is a beloved classic, praised for its lighthearted yet emotionally resonant story and its iconic dance numbers.

From David Lean, starring Peter O'Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins
Rated Approved

Lawrence of Arabia is a 1962 British epic adventure drama directed by David Lean. Based on the life of T. E. Lawrence, the film stars Peter O'Toole in the title role. The film chronicles Lawrence's experiences in Arabia during World War I, in particular his attacks on Aqaba and Damascus and his involvement in the Arab National Council. The film also stars Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Anthony Quinn, Omar Sharif, and Claude Rains. The film begins with Lawrence's recruitment to the British Army in the Arabian Peninsula during World War I and follows his rise to power among the Arabs. Lawrence soon finds himself as an advisor to Prince Faisal and ultimately works in the service of King Hussein. Lawrence's mission is to unite the tribes of the Arabian Peninsula against the Ottoman forces, and he succeeds in capturing the port at Aqaba and leading Arabia to victory in Damascus. The film portrays Lawrence's struggle to keep his own sense of identity in the midst of the conflicting interests of his fellow British officers, the Arab leaders, and his own feelings of loyalty. Lawrence must confront the reality of his actions and the consequences of his decisions, as well as the ever-shifting nature of his relationships with the people