The 10 Highest-Rated Movies of All Time (And Where to Start)

Some films define cinema itself. This guide rounds up the ten highest-rated movies of all time — the masterpieces that top nearly every best-of list — and explains why each one belongs there.

The essential classics

• The Shawshank Redemption — the ultimate story of hope and friendship.
• The Godfather — the definitive crime epic.
• The Dark Knight — the superhero film that transcended the genre.
• Schindler's List — one of the most important films ever made.
• Pulp Fiction — the movie that reinvented modern storytelling.

Why ratings matter (and why they don't)

Aggregate scores are a great starting point, but the best movie for you depends on your mood. Use this list as a map, not a rulebook — and always check the trailer before you press play.

A truly great film grows with you. The masterpiece you watched at twenty is a different movie at forty.