11 Movies That Everyone Needs to See at Least Once in Their Lifetime
Some films go beyond mere entertainment, leaving a lasting impact that transcends generations. From unforgettable performances to timeless themes, these are the movies that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime, offering moments of reflection, inspiration, and cinematic magic. Recently, on an online platform, people discussed and suggested some of the best movies everyone should watch once in their lifetime. Let’s see what they had to say!
1. Casablanca (1942)
Casablanca is filled with some of the most famous lines in movie history, such as “Here’s looking at you, kid,” “We’ll always have Paris,” and “Play it again, Sam.” These lines have transcended the film and become part of cultural consciousness. The film’s characters, particularly Humphrey Bogart’s Rick Blaine and Ingrid Bergman’s Ilsa Lund, are some of the most iconic in cinematic history. Their performances are nuanced and captivating, bringing emotional depth to the film.
One commenter also said, “Once you watch Casablanca, dozens of cultural references will make more sense.”
2. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
The film’s opening D-Day sequence is one of the most harrowing and realistic portrayals of battle ever put to screen. It immerses viewers in the chaos, fear, and brutality of combat, offering a visceral understanding of the sacrifices made by soldiers during World War II. One commenter said, “If you watch that beach landing scene and still romanticize war, you’re a psychopath.”
3. All Quiet On the Western Front (2022)
Like the original novel and earlier adaptations, the 2022 version provides a brutally honest and raw portrayal of the horrors of war. Its vivid depictions of trench warfare, suffering, and futility offer a haunting reminder of the brutal toll war takes on soldiers, both physically and mentally.. A viewer commented: “That movie tore into my soul.”
4. Thin Red Line (1998)
This movie came out in the same year as Saving Private Ryan, so it got way less attention. And that’s sad because it’s honestly one of the best war movies out there. Unlike many war films that focus solely on the physical and tactical aspects of combat, The Thin Red Line digs into the internal and existential struggles of its characters. It contemplates the nature of war, the human condition, and the relationship between violence and nature, making it a deeply reflective and thought-provoking experience.
5. Battle for Haditha (2007)
It is probably the most honest movie yet made about the Iraq War. Through the depiction of the Hathida incident, it manages to put a human face on everyone involved in the real-life massacre it dramatized. The film is divided between the perspectives of the marines, the insurgents, and several civilians in neighboring houses. Mostly, the director employed ex-US military and Iraqi refugees instead of professional actors. It’s a hard watch, but it beats out heavily fictionalized films on Iraq War.
6. Come and See (1985)
There are many horrific anti-war movies. But Come and See has a severe and brutal picture of war. It is rooted in historical events, portraying the real-life atrocities committed by Nazi forces during their invasion of the Soviet Union. Its stark realism makes it not only a powerful anti-war film but also a historical testament to the atrocities experienced by the Belarusian people during the conflict.
7. Das Boot (1981)
Das Boot (1981) is a must-see film for its intense and claustrophobic portrayal of submarine warfare, its humanistic approach to depicting soldiers, and its technical mastery. One viewer said, “Watched this as a kid when my dad hosted a foreign film club at our house. It was a strange experience to slowly start rooting for the crew of the sub, even though they were the bad guys. I wasn’t even supposed to be watching…I hid under one of the couches and watched from there. I was so confused by what I felt about the movie I confessed the next day to my parents, just so my dad would clear things up for me.”
8. 12 Angry Men (1957)
Set almost entirely in a single jury room, 12 Angry Men uses sharp, gripping dialogue to build tension and drama. The film masterfully keeps the audience on edge, proving that a compelling story doesn’t need action or elaborate settings—just great writing and performances. It is one of the best movies of its time. The original was made in the 1950s and starred Henry Fonda. Indeed, the original is best, but the 1997 remake is incredibly faithful to the original and also a fantastic watch.
9. Shawshank Redemption (1994)
The characters, particularly Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) and Ellis “Red” Redding (Morgan Freeman), are beautifully developed, showcasing their vulnerabilities, strengths, and growth throughout their time in Shawshank Prison. A movie lover says, “I feel like this movie has such a unique, powerful message that is integral to the human experience: hope is life, and life is hope. Many movies have hopeful heroes and losing hope, but no movie, I can recall, goes through the painful journey of redeeming hope that was lost.”
10. The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride is renowned for its clever dialogue and sharp humor. The film balances adventure with comedic moments, making it a delightful experience. Quotes like “Inconceivable!” and “As you wish” have become iconic, showcasing the film’s playful tone.
11. Threads (1984)
One commenter said, “Threads – the 1984 nuclear apocalypse drama from the BBC. You only need to watch it once, don’t watch it before you sleep, and read the TV Tropes guide beforehand if you have any doubts. It stays with you.”
Another went on to say, “Not only should everybody watch it, but they should do so as very young adults. Old enough to understand the narrative, young enough so it makes an impression.
This movie has nothing whatsoever to do with ideology. It’s entirely a statement on the horror of a future nuclear war.”
Source: Reddit
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