20 Timeless Movies Everyone Should See at Least Once in Their Lifetime

Some movies impact our lives so profoundly they become instant must-watch classics. Therefore, no matter your interests, you should watch these films at least once in your lifetime.

1. 12 Angry Men (1957)

Box Office Gross: $4.36M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 97%

A gripping courtroom drama that explores the power of persuasion and the flaws of the justice system as it unfolds entirely within the confines of a claustrophobic jury room.

2. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Box Office Gross: $66.2M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 89%

A visually stunning, groundbreaking sci-fi masterpiece that explores humanity's quest for knowledge and the enigmatic presence of a monolithic alien artifact.

3.The Godfather (1972)

Box Office Gross: $134.97M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 98%

One of the most iconic crime epics that set the standard for gangster films. The movie delves into the story of the Italian-American Mafia, becoming one of the most quotable films in movie history.

4. The Wizard Of Oz (1939)

Box Office Gross: $25.63M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 89%

A timeless classic for all ages, the film brought L. Frank Baum's book to life with its colorful and imaginative depiction. The movie features well-known songs, such as Somewhere Over the Rainbow, which has become synonymous with the film and kept it a family favorite.

5. Do The Right Thing (1989)

Box Office Gross: $37.29M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 89%

Spike Lee's powerful and thought-provoking film about racial tensions in a Brooklyn neighborhood during a scorching summer highlights the complexities of prejudice, discrimination, and social unrest.

6. Blue Velvet (1986)

Box Office Gross: $8.61M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 88%

Directed by David Lynch, the film is a twisted and surreal exploration of the seedy underbelly of suburban America. With its surreal atmosphere, rich symbolism, and unsettling performances, the film utilizes Lynch's distinctive style and vision.

7. Jaws (1975)

Box Office Gross: $476.51M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 90%

The film that arguably changed cinema. Steven Spielberg's gripping thriller about a great white shark leaves a lasting impact on its audience. As one of the original summer blockbusters, it is an icon in its own right.

8. Breathless (1960)

Box Office Gross: $569,340 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 90%

A groundbreaking French crime drama that defies traditional conventions. Its innovative filmmaking techniques, which popularized jump cuts and non-linear narratives, revolutionized cinema. The film is a timeless work of art that helped bring the French New Wave to international recognition.

9. House (1977)

Box Office Gross: $209,765 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 79%

Although House can be described as a surreal Japanese horror, it undoubtedly exists in a category of its own. Blending comedy, fantasy, and terror, the movie creates a unique and visually striking cinematic experience that has forged a strong cult following.

10. Singin' In The Rain (1952)

​​Box Office Gross: $2M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 95%

A delightful musical comedy that has established itself as a timeless musical set in early Hollywood. With charm, iconic dance numbers, memorable songs, and notable performances, it presents an infectious energy which continues to captivate audiences.

11. Citizen Kane (1941)

Box Office Gross: $1.64M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 90%

Described as an influential masterpiece, Orson Welles' sensational film redefined the possibilities of filmmaking in the early 1940s. Often cited as the greatest film ever made, it continues to be an example of cinematic brilliance.

12. Sunset Boulevard (1950)

Box Office Gross: $1.64M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 90%

A captivating and haunting black film noir that explores the darker side of Hollywood. The movie follows a struggling screenwriter's descent into the deranged fantasy world of a former silent film star. The film's mesmerizing tale of faded glory to the backdrop of Hollywood has remained a timeless classic.

13. My Dinner With Andre (1981)

Box Office Gross: $5,073 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 85%

A thought-provoking and introspective film that revolves around a conversation between two friends over a single dinner. Directed by Louis Malle, it delves into philosophical discussions on life, art, and human existence, a must-watch for viewers.

14. Vertigo (1958)

Box Office Gross: $7.79M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 93%

Alfred Hitchcock's psychological thriller delves into the ideas of obsession and manipulation while featuring a memorable performance by James Stewart. With its stunning visuals and haunting score, Vertigo has certainly had a lasting impact on cinema.

15. Seven Samurai (1954)

Box Office Gross: $346,258 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 97%

Described as a monumental achievement in filmmaking, this epic samurai film tells a gripping tale about a group of samurai hired to protect a village from bandits. With its breathtaking action sequences, compelling characters, and profound themes, it remains a must-watch for fans of adventure epics.

16. After Hours (1985)

Box Office Gross: $10.6M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 87%

After Hours is a dark comedy directed by Martin Scorsese. It follows a man's nightmarish misadventures through New York's dangerous underworld. With its eccentric characters and unpredictable plot twists, the film is filled with entertaining, bizarre encounters and surreal situations.

17. Monty Python And The Holy Grail (1975)

Box Office Gross: $1.94M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 95%

Considered a comedic masterpiece that has since become a cult classic. With its irreverent humor, quotable lines, and absurd situations, this parody of the legend of King Arthur by the Monty Python troupe keeps audiences laughing for the entire film.

18. Playtime (1967)

Box Office Gross: $63,037 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 89%

A visually stunning French comedy, Playtime satirizes modern society and its obsession with technology. The film is a must-watch for its inventive use of visual comedy, supported by creative sound effects that push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.

19. Lawrence Of Arabia (1962)

Box Office Gross: $45.72M | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 93%

An epic set during WWI, the film chronicles the extraordinary journey of T.E. Lawrence in the Arabian desert. Considered one of the greatest films ever made, the movie is beautifully shot and features an iconic performance by Peter O'Toole.

20. The 400 Blows (1959)

Box Office Gross: $167,829 | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 94%

A poignant and influential movie by François Truffaut, the semi-autobiographical film is about the struggles of a young boy growing up in Paris. It remains a must-watch for its emotional depth, social commentary, and significant contribution to French New Wave cinema.