17 movies that left us with no scope for criticism

It is not possible that movies can not be criticized. We, the eager viewers, will always, intentionally or accidentally, stumble upon some details that might seem not right to us. Come on, this is art and there is and always will be room for betterment. We can point out some acting parts or maybe the background score or in case one of us is a movie buff, we will get into a more in-depth analysis. But there are some movies that are so good to experience that we can voluntarily cut some slack. These are actually the gems that we use as a reference to judge other movies. So, here is a list of 17 movies that are really hard to criticize.

1) Schindler’s List

Steven Spielberg’s 1993 masterpiece, Schindler’s List, is a powerful testament to the resilience of humanity in the face of unimaginable horror. Winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, it remains a cinematic triumph. The film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saves over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust. What makes it extraordinary is its haunting realism, emotional depth, and ability to leave a lasting impact on viewers. It’s not just a movie, it’s a reminder of the strength of compassion and the importance of remembering history.

2) Interstellar

Christopher Nolan doesn’t just make movies; he crafts experiences that leave you in awe, and Interstellar is no exception. Released in 2014, this sci-fi epic won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and redefined space storytelling. It’s not just about wormholes and distant planets; it’s about love, sacrifice, and humanity’s endless quest for survival. The breathtaking visuals, Hans Zimmer’s unforgettable score, and Matthew McConaughey’s heartfelt performance elevate this film to greatness. Nolan didn’t just aim for the stars; he reached them.

3) 12 Angry Men

Sidney Lumet’s 1957 classic, 12 Angry Men, is proof that great cinema doesn’t need elaborate sets or flashy effects—just sharp storytelling and brilliant performances. Nominated for three Academy Awards, this courtroom drama unfolds in a single room where twelve jurors debate the fate of a young defendant. What makes it legendary is its intense exploration of justice, prejudice, and human nature. The masterful dialogue, riveting tension, and Henry Fonda’s standout performance make this film a long-lasting benchmark for dramatic storytelling.

4) The Godfather

Francis Ford Coppola didn’t just direct The Godfather, he orchestrated a symphony of crime, family, and power. Released in 1972, this cinematic masterpiece swept three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and set the gold standard for storytelling. Marlon Brando’s iconic portrayal of Don Vito Corleone is unforgettable, but it’s Al Pacino’s transformation as Michael that makes it legendary. From its gripping plot to Nino Rota’s haunting score, everything about this film screams perfection. Coppola didn’t make a movie; he created a legacy.

5) The Godfather Part 2

If The Godfather is a masterpiece, Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather Part II is nothing short of genius. Released in 1974, it won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and redefined the art of sequels. Al Pacino delivers a chilling performance as Michael Corleone, balancing power and betrayal, while Robert De Niro’s portrayal of a young Vito Corleone is equally mesmerizing. The film’s rich narrative, weaving past and present, and its haunting exploration of loyalty and corruption, make it an unparalleled cinematic achievement.

6) The Dark Knight

Heath Ledger didn’t receive a Posthumous Academy Award for no reason. Christopher Nolan made sure that no stone was unturned in the second movie of the Dark Knight Trilogy. And look what he has created. This movie is actually considered the blueprint for superhero movies. The portrayal of the Caped Crusader is so far unmatched but that is not the elephant in the room. Joker stole the show with immense respect and love from the spectators.

7) The Shawshank Redemption

Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman’s brilliance in The Shawshank Redemption, brought to life one of the greatest tales of hope and resilience ever told. Released in 1994 and nominated for seven Academy Awards, this Frank Darabont masterpiece is a cinematic treasure. The story of Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly imprisoned, and his unbreakable friendship with Red, is as moving as it is inspiring. With its powerful performances, poignant storytelling, and unforgettable ending, this film has rightly earned its place as a timeless classic.

8) Forrest Gump

Tom Hanks didn’t win an Academy Award for Forrest Gump without leaving an indelible mark on cinema. Released in 1994, this Robert Zemeckis masterpiece won six Oscars, including Best Picture, and is celebrated for its heartwarming storytelling. The journey of Forrest, a simple man with extraordinary luck, takes viewers through historical events and unforgettable moments. With Hanks’ heartfelt performance, an iconic soundtrack, and its universal message of love and perseverance, this film remains a beloved classic.

9) The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Clint Eastwood’s recognition as an icon of Western cinema was not accidental, and Sergio Leone made sure The Good, the Bad and the Ugly became a masterpiece. Released in 1966, this legendary Spaghetti Western redefined the genre with its epic storytelling, unforgettable characters, and Ennio Morricone’s iconic score. The tale of Blondie, Angel Eyes, and Tuco battling for buried treasure is packed with tension, wit, and style. Leone’s masterful direction and the film’s raw energy ensure its place as one of the greatest films of all time.

10) Pulp Fiction

Quentin Tarantino creates cultural phenomena, and Pulp Fiction is his crown jewel. Released in 1994, this genre-defying masterpiece won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The film’s non-linear storytelling, razor-sharp dialogue, and unforgettable characters—Vincent, Jules, Mia, and Butch—make it a cinematic revolution. From its iconic dance scene to the gripping moments of tension, Pulp Fiction is a bold, stylish ride that changed filmmaking forever.

11) The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Peter Jackson simply nailed it in the last movie of the trilogy; he crafted an epic conclusion that made history. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, released in 2003, swept the Academy Awards with 11 wins, including Best Picture. This cinematic masterpiece blends breathtaking visuals, unforgettable characters, and a gripping narrative of courage and sacrifice. From Frodo’s harrowing journey to destroy the One Ring to Aragorn’s rise as king, every moment is packed with emotion and grandeur.

12) Seven Samurai

Seven Samurai, released in 1954, is the ultimate tale of heroism, strategy, and heart, setting the gold standard for action epics. Directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa and featuring Toshiro Mifune at his finest, this masterpiece revolutionized cinema with its impeccable storytelling and dynamic characters. The story of seven warriors defending a poor village against bandits is packed with drama, action, and emotion. Winning multiple awards, including the Silver Lion at Venice, it remains an unmatched triumph of cinematic brilliance.

13) Goodfellas

Goodfellas, released in 1990, is the ultimate gangster saga that shows the rise and fall of life in the mob. Directed by Martin Scorsese, a master of storytelling, and featuring Ray Liotta’s career-defining performance, the film brims with style and authenticity. With an Oscar win for Joe Pesci’s unforgettable role and countless iconic scenes, it’s a gritty, fast-paced masterpiece that changed the crime genre forever.

14) Joker

Released in 2019, Joker is a haunting exploration of a man’s descent into madness, blending tragedy with a chilling origin story of the clown prince of crime. This psychological thriller won two Academy Awards. The film’s raw emotion, gripping narrative, and unforgettable score make it a cinematic triumph. Todd Phillips’ direction and Phoenix’s tour de force ensure it stands as a modern masterpiece.

15) Fight Club

David Fincher, with stellar performances by Edward Norton and Brad Pitt, delivered a cult classic with Fight Club, released in 1999. This bold, mind-bending film dives deep into identity, consumerism, and rebellion, crafting a story that’s as thrilling as it is thought-provoking. Though it didn’t win major awards initially, its razor-sharp dialogue and unforgettable twists have cemented its place as a modern cinematic legend.

16) Parasite

Bong Joon-ho, with phenomenal performances by Song Kang-ho and the cast, crafted a masterpiece in Parasite, released in 2019. This gripping tale of class disparity is as darkly humorous as it is devastating, blending suspense and social commentary with expert precision. Winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, it broke barriers and redefined storytelling. Parasite’s layered narrative and unforgettable twists make it a modern classic that resonates worldwide.

17) Saving Private Ryan

Saving Private Ryan, released in 1998, is a poignant portrayal of sacrifice and brotherhood set against the backdrop of World War II. The film’s harrowing D-Day sequence and emotional depth have made it a benchmark in war cinema. Steven Spielberg’s masterful direction, combined with Tom Hanks’s heartfelt performance, brings unparalleled realism and humanity to the screen. Winning five Academy Awards, this powerful story of a mission to save one soldier remains an unforgettable tribute to the bravery of those who served.