The Best Movies of All Time

Going to the movies to watch a newly-released film on “the big screen” with a bucket of popcorn and your favorite candy is a popular American pastime. However, the number of vast streaming options available today means watching a movie is also a great way to spend a quiet evening at home. Thanks to modern-day technology, consumers now have options for how they enjoy movies—with the theatre still being a popular option. Some movies are box office hits watched by millions of people, while others meet an early fate with critical reviews. Check out the greatest movies of all time to add to your must-watch list.

Best Movies by Box Office Performance

The following movies have performed incredibly well in terms of worldwide box office sales. These choices include action-packed picks, superhero favorites, and even a timeless love story. Make sure to check The Numbers list of top-grossing films of all time to see why they were so successful on the big screen.

1. Avatar (2009)
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
3. Titanic (1997)
4. Star Wars Ep. VII: The Force Awakens (2015)
5. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
6. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
7. Jurassic World (2015)
8. The Lion King (2019)
9. The Avengers (2012)
10. Furious 7 (2015)

The Most Watched Movies of All Time

According to IMDb, the following films are the most-watched ever. Many of them are pop culture classics that have withstood the test of time and are enjoyed across generations. This list of must-sees is diverse and features everything from animated kid favorites to iconic action movies. With films spanning eight decades, these picks are awesome examples of cinematic evolution.

1. Titanic (1997)
2. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
3. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
4. Star Wars (1977)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (2003)
6. Snow White and the Seven Drawfs (1937)
7. Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
8. The Lion King (1994)
9. The Godfather (1972)
10. The Jesus Film (1979)

The Best Movies in History According to Critics

The movie experts at TimeOut compiled the following list of the best movies based on their creative plots, outstanding directing, and superior acting. These films span a 50-year timeline, transporting viewers to both the past as well as modern times. They include feel-good picks, action-packed faves, and innovative storylines.

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
2. The Godfather (1972)
3. Citizen Kane (1941)
4. Jeanne Dielman, 23, Quai du Commerce, 1980 Bruxelles (1975)
5. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
6. La Dolce Vita (1960)
7. Seven Samurai (1954)
8. In the Mood for Love (2000)
9. There Will Be Blood (2007)
10. Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

The Best Movies Ever by Audience Votes

The following are the top films based on ratings by actual IMDb users. This list is made up of compelling dramas, iconic gang and war films, and captivating sci-fi mysteries—meaning there’s a storyline for everyone to enjoy. Check them out and then hop online to rate them for yourself.

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
2. The Godfather (1972)
3. The Dark Knight (2008)
4. The Godfather Part II (1974)
5. 12 Angry Men (1957)
6. Schindler’s List (1993)
7. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
8. Pulp Fiction (1994)
9. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
10. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966)

Creating Your Own Iconic Masterpiece

Ranking the best movies of all time comes with a wide range of ideas and differing opinions. When it comes to making your pick for the greatest film of all time, why not make it your own? With iMemories, you can combine the home videos you’ve have captured over the years of family and friends, and make one digital masterpiece. Send in your VHS, 8mm reels, or even Super 8 films and have them converted into stunning digital videos. Your new movies will be stored on the secure iMemories cloud so you can share your own must-watch list with friends and families across the world.