My Top 10 Favorite Movies of All Time

#1 - The Abyss, 1989 (9.5/10)

A sci-fi masterpiece directed by James Cameron, released in 1989. I will not say anything else about the story here as I do not want to spoil it, but please understand, this film is criminally underrated.

If you don't mind spoilers and want to know more about this film, feel free to read my full review of the movie here: My Favorite Movie, "The Abyss" (https://vocal.media/geeks/my-favorite-movie-the-abyss)

#2 - Jurassic Park, 1993 (9/10)

This used to be my #1 favorite movie of all time, but once I saw The Abyss, that changed.

However, as a life-long dinosaur nerd with a profound interest in filmmaking and cinematrography, this will always be in my top five easily.

The practical effects, the dedication and attention to detail in bringing dinosaurs to life, the dynamic of the main characters and the incredible story make this a timeless classic that will be remembered for generations.

#3 - The Sixth Sense, 1999 (9/10)

My favorite Bruce Willis film, and still the greatest twist ending I've ever seen in a film.

Again, I will not discuss anything related to the story here to avoid spoiling the plot, but be on the lookout for my full movie review coming soon!

#4 - Dances With Wolves, 1990 (9/10)

A great western starring Kevin Costner I used to watch with my father all the time. It is beautifully filmed, delivers a powerful message and serves to remind us all how majestic the last frontier truly was.

It also highlights the ways of life and traditions of the Native American nations that called the great plains home. I recommend everyone watch this movie at some point in their lives to better understand the perspectives of different peoples during a pivotal point in U.S. history.

#5 - Obsession, 2025 (9/10)

I had to make room for my new favorite horror movie of all time. I didn't think I'd ever find another horror movie quite as disturbing as Hereditary, but this one takes the cake.

#6 - The Princess Bride, 1987 (8.5/10)

A classic, fun, feel-good comedy-action movie I've loved since I was about eight years old. My family quotes lines from this movie constantly!

#7 - Inglourious Basterds, 2009 (8.5/10)

My personal favorite movie from Quentin Tarantino. I know some people believe his films are overly violent, but honestly, I don't know how impactful a movie about World War II could possibly be without depicting the gore, the bloodshed, the backstabbing and the utter chaos any war would create. It's war, and his stylistic choices to showcase the true horror, tension and absurdity of war are executed perfectly.

Brad Pitt is awesome in this movie, but Christoph Waltz truly steals the show. Not sure I've seen anyone quite as menacing in a film since Hannibal Lecter.

#8 - Mad Max: Fury Road, 2015 (9/10)

Another violent film, but beautifully done. The sci-fi story is captivating and unique, the futuristic characters and setting are alien, yet still somehow relatable in a charming way.

Despite the quick camera movements, endless gore, and obstacle after obstacle wreaking havoc on the main characters' uphill battle to find hope, there is something incredibly pure and heart-warming about this movie that will have a lasting impact.

#9 - Jaws, 1975 (8.5/10)

This film really needs no introduction, but I will give credit where it is due. Still Steven Spielberg's best work, and still sends shivers down my spine every time I watch it.

This film is a masterclass in making the audience fear what they cannot see, which fun fact, was never the intended startegy with this film, just a happy accident!

The animatronic shark ran into issue after issue, and certain scenes were done in a completely different way to convey the shark was lurking just beneath the surface without putting the clunky robot on full display.

Until the end, that is.

#10 - Les Mis, 2012 (8.5/10)

My favorite musical of all time, and the 2012 film version provides the audience with a window we never knew we needed into the souls of these brilliant characters. On stage, it might be difficult for us to see the faces and expressions of the characters, but on screen, we feel their every emotion.

The one-take camera shots, star-studded cast and breath-taking cinematography will bring anyone to tears (there are multiple points in this film during which I consistently cry to this day).

***Honorable Mentions***

Coraline, 2009 (9.5/10)

My favorite stop-motion animated film of all time.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, 1996 (9/10)

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is an amazing yet criminally underrated Disney film.

The Incredibles, 2004 (9/10)

So many family movie nights spent watching this classic. It was either this or Finding Nemo, every Thursday night with a couple slices of pizza and some wings.