10. The Dark Knight

To kick off this list, I couldn't think of a better film to start with than Christopher Nolan's masterpiece, "The Dark Knight." Initially, I had reservations because another movie on this list shares a similar style and served as a significant inspiration for this one. While some may argue for "Inception," I find it impossible to overlook Heath Ledger's phenomenal performance as the Joker. It's a portrayal that truly defines the film.

First and foremost, let's discuss Nolan's remarkable execution of the hyper-realistic approach to the superhero genre—a feat previously attempted but never mastered to this extent. The action set pieces are nothing short of epic, and the sound design often goes unappreciated but significantly enhances the overall experience. I still remember the awe I felt watching this movie in IMAX; it was a cinematic spectacle from start to finish.

Admittedly, the film's final act can feel a bit overstuffed due to the introduction of the Two-Face storyline. However, if you can overlook this minor flaw, "The Dark Knight" stands as a cinematic tour de force. And that last shot? Simply breathtaking. Kudos to one of the finest modern-day directors for crafting not just an exceptional film but also an incredible trilogy. And let's not forget about "Batman Begins"—a gem in its own right that laid the groundwork for this cinematic journey.

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9. Boogie Nights

Choosing between "Boogie Nights" and "There Will Be Blood" was a challenge, especially given the rule of one movie per director. However, I ultimately opted for "Boogie Nights" due to its exceptional rewatchability. While I revisit Paul Thomas Anderson's other films regularly, this one stands out among the rest. The music and performances are stellar, and the film is peppered with breathtaking scenes featuring long takes and impeccable editing—it's practically a masterclass in filmmaking.

Paul Thomas Anderson holds a place in my top three most influential directors, and his remarkable filmography speaks volumes. "Boogie Nights" is a multifaceted exploration of themes such as the film industry, family dynamics, and the journey through life's trials and triumphs. However, I must caution that this film isn't suitable for everyone due to its intense subject matter. It's definitely not a movie to watch with your parents. But if you're a cinephile like myself, "Boogie Nights" is a must-watch.

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8. Heat

Here's the movie I was previously alluding to. In my opinion, "The Dark Knight" wouldn't be the same without this cinematic gem. "Heat" holds the top spot as my favorite action film (apologies to "Mad Max"). I understand that some might not classify it strictly as an action film, but to me, it absolutely qualifies—feel free to craft your own list.

Featuring powerhouse performances from Al Pacino, Val Kilmer, and Robert De Niro, "Heat" is a masterclass in storytelling. Michael Mann skillfully crafts the gritty atmosphere of 90s Los Angeles, immersing viewers in its pulsating energy. The film's score is captivating, and its cinematography ranks among my personal favorites.

"Heat" has left an indelible mark on the film industry, inspiring countless imitations but never quite being matched. From the authenticity of the real guns to the intricately planned bank robbery heists, every aspect of this film is executed with precision, resulting in a near-perfect action thriller.

And if you're a fan of Michael Mann's work, I highly recommend checking out "The Insider" for another compelling cinematic experience.

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7. City Of God

I struggled with the placement of this movie on my list—it's truly a masterpiece that almost warranted a higher ranking. Rarely does a film seamlessly weave together a coming-of-age narrative with an array of interconnected stories, creating a work of art that transcends the screen. "City of God" took me on a journey into the heart of Brazil, exposing me to its culture in a way I hadn't experienced before.

From the captivating music to the authentic performances, every aspect of this film is carefully crafted to immerse viewers in its world. The guerrilla-style filmmaking lends an air of authenticity, blurring the lines between fiction and documentary. Art is meant to evoke emotion and provoke thought, and "City of God" achieves this with unparalleled finesse.

I recall watching this film with someone who found it so raw and real that they were tempted to switch it off at times—a testament to its power to evoke visceral reactions. Movies like this are a rare find, and I long for more films that fearlessly delve into unapologetic storytelling.

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6. The Social Network

Let me begin by stating that David Fincher stands as the pinnacle of modern-day directors. With a near-perfect resume and an unparalleled diversity in film genres, he consistently delivers cinematic gems that captivate audiences worldwide. While deliberating between this film, "Se7en," and "Fight Club," I ultimately chose "The Social Network" for its compelling subject matter.

At its core, the film tells the story of the creation of Facebook—an ostensibly straightforward premise that Fincher masterfully transforms into a riveting cinematic experience. With the brilliant writing of Aaron Sorkin and the evocative score by the immensely talented Trent Reznor, the film strikes a perfect balance of tone, capturing the essence of a generation.

I distinctly recall the film's marketing campaign, which exuded a dark and eerie aura while intriguing viewers with its enigmatic premise—an approach that resonated deeply with me. Every performance in the film is stellar, contributing to its lasting impact and enduring relevance. "The Social Network" is a movie that I find myself revisiting time and again, discovering new layers of insight with each viewing.

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5. The Matrix

I can anticipate what some of you might be thinking about this pick—corny. Well, let me tell you, this was the movie that ignited my passion for film. I vividly recall my dad getting his hands on the VHS copy and enthusiastically waking me up for school, unable to contain his excitement about how incredible this film was. Initially drawn in by the mesmerizing action scenes (which I shamelessly replayed over and over again), as I matured, I delved deeper into the rich mythology underlying the narrative, enriching my viewing experience.

"The Matrix" is a transcendent blend of kung fu, action, and science fiction—a cinematic masterpiece that forever altered the landscape of the film industry. From its distinct tone to its groundbreaking editing techniques and iconic bullet time sequences, this film demands respect. Say what you will, but this movie is nothing short of amazing, and I won't entertain any arguments to the contrary.

The action set pieces are unparalleled, and the narrative is expertly structured, cementing its status as a timeless classic. While I may not revisit it as frequently now due to the countless times I watched it as a kid, I'll never forget the profound impact it had on me during my formative years. "The Matrix" is an edgy, dark masterpiece for adults that also resonates with younger audiences.

Every action movie that followed has aspired to reach the heights set by "The Matrix," yet none have managed to come close. And you know what? I'll even admit—I have a soft spot for "The Matrix Reloaded." If you haven't watched this movie in a while, I implore you to throw it on and take the red pill.

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4. Pulp Fiction

Quentin Tarantino. The name alone commands reverence in the world of cinema. This man not only put independent filmmaking on the map but also exudes a palpable love for the medium that permeates every frame of his work. While some might be surprised by my choice of placing "Pulp Fiction" above "The Godfather," I can confidently say that I revisit this film far more frequently than that masterpiece.

"Pulp Fiction" serves as the quintessential example of intertwining stories, laying the foundation for countless narratives to come. The dialogue is nothing short of brilliant, the characters are unforgettable, and the soundtrack is a tour de force in its own right. Each scene is a masterclass in storytelling, and I wholeheartedly recommend reading the screenplay to truly appreciate Tarantino's genius.

I'll admit, my first viewing of this film left me feeling overwhelmed—I found it to be too much, especially when watching it in fragments. However, with subsequent viewings, I've come to revere "Pulp Fiction" as a cinematic gem. Whether I'm watching it in a heightened state or completely sober, the experience is nothing short of transcendent.

Everything about this film resonates with me. It encapsulates a golden era of cinema that I love revisiting time and again. The impact that Tarantino and "Pulp Fiction" have had on pop culture is immeasurable, and while I may have missed the opportunity to see it upon its initial release with a live audience, I still feel fortunate to have experienced it in my lifetime.

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3. No Country For Old Men

What a remarkable year for cinema it was when "No Country For Old Men" graced the screen. Rarely do you see both a Coen Brothers and a Paul Thomas Anderson film released within the same timeframe. While I've always appreciated the Coen Brothers' contributions to cinema, I was unprepared for the gritty, serious masterpiece they had in store—a western thriller boasting some of the most breathtaking cinematography ever captured on film.

I understand that this film may not be for everyone—it's deliberately paced and devoid of a traditional musical score. However, every aspect of "No Country For Old Men" serves a purpose, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout. Javier Bardem's portrayal of the enigmatic villain is nothing short of mesmerizing, and the entire cast is impeccably chosen.

What sets this film apart is its departure from standard Hollywood tropes. The Coen Brothers defy conventions by opting for unconventional storytelling techniques, leaving certain events off-camera or presented in a non-traditional manner—a rarity in modern cinema.

From its top-notch dialogue to its impeccable pacing and pitch-perfect tone, "No Country For Old Men" is a dark, multilayered exploration of the consequences of greed. It marks the end of an era for independent and big production company collaborations, and I fervently believe it deserved every accolade it received.

The Coen Brothers truly outdid themselves with this film, delivering a cinematic experience that demands to be seen. If you haven't already, I implore you to check it out.

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2. The Godfather Part I

Alright, I'm bending the rules a bit by including this movie on my list, but sometimes you just have to acknowledge greatness when you see it. "The Godfather Part I" isn't just a movie—it's the quintessential film, the Michael Jordan of cinema. There's simply nothing else like it, and there likely never will be again.

Francis Ford Coppola, the visionary behind this masterpiece, pushed the boundaries of filmmaking in every conceivable way. Each frame is a work of art, meticulously crafted and worthy of detailed examination from every angle. And let's talk about that theme song—it's arguably the greatest movie theme song of all time. Seriously, of all time!

Now, I know some might argue that "Part II" deserves the top spot, but for me, "Part I" reigns supreme. It's a sprawling epic where every moment is packed with significance. At its core, it's a story about family—something I might be a bit biased about coming from an Italian family myself. But if you don't have this movie in your top five, well, you might just be a bit like Fredo.

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Honourable Mentions (Not In Order)

It was tough but this movies didn’t quite make my list but I highly recommend them:

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Gladiator

Ridley Scott, Hanz Zimmer, If this movie doesn’t get you inspired & horny then I don’t know what will.

Inglorious Basterds

Opening scene, bar scene… two of probably the best scenes put on film. Dialogue! Dialogue! Dialogue! Shoutout my boy Christoph Waltz.

Se7en

If you don’t love murder/mystery/thriller movies then get the fuck out of here. The epitome of the genre and a perfect third act. David Finchey!

Hard Eight

This is my sleeper movie. Probably my most underrated movie of all time. IDGAF. Such a pleasant cinematic experience.

Eyes Wide Shut

Had to put Kubrick on here. This would be my Kubrick pick. If you can tell me everything that is gonna happen in this movie then you should probably be awarded the Nobel peace prize.

Anchorman

My comedy pick. Will Ferrell & Jim Carrey, my comedic inspirations.

Ex Machina

Simplicity. 3 characters. One setting. Deep & Thrilling.

Ocean Eleven

This is the best hangout/feel good movies. I watch this every couple of months. The Steven Soderbergh one by the way.

Scarface

“Fuck me, Tony”. Brian De Palma, Al Pacino. If you haven’t watched or heard about this movie you probably live under a rock. So good.

Fight Club

The best plot twist of all time (Yes, over Empire Strikes Back). Rewatch it and then watch it again. The writer of the book left the movie theatres because he thought this movie was that much better than his book.

Children of Men

A unique twist to a biblical story. Long takes, great scenes. Watch it.

Superbad

If you don’t relate to this movie when growing up then I don’t relate to you.

Snatch

If you haven’t noticed I like gangster movies. It’s like if Edgar Wright made a movie with Tarantino sprinkled with Scorcese in it. Watch Lock, Stock & Two Smoking Barrels as well.

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1. Goodfellas

"As far back as I can remember, I wanted to be a gangster." If you don't think that's one of the best opening scenes in film, then, well, you might want to reconsider. I vividly recall being on set for a show I was working on and overhearing a conversation among crew members—one of them passionately declared that whenever "Goodfellas" comes on, they can never resist watching it. I couldn't agree more.

This film is a relentless crime drama that grips you from the start and never lets go. It doesn't matter how tired I am or what chaos may be unfolding around me—once I start "Goodfellas," I have to see it through to the end. The music is impeccable, Ray Liotta delivers a stellar performance, Lorraine Bracco shines, and of course, Joe Pesci and Robert De Niro are absolute powerhouses.

The pace of this movie is nothing short of perfect, setting the standard for any biopic crime film that followed. It even features narration and breaks the fourth wall, elements that are flawlessly integrated into the narrative. "Goodfellas" was the film that made me fall in love with Martin Scorsese and solidified his place in my top three directors.

From the camerawork to the framing to the iconic opening title sequence, there's simply no room for criticism when it comes to this masterpiece. What Martin Scorsese achieved here is nothing short of iconic and will never be replicated. I adore this film—period. Peace out!

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Ending Note

If you’ve made it this far I commend you & I thank you! Even though you may or may not agree, its’ completely fine. This is my list & I hope this can inspire you to make a list of your own.

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