Lights, camera, action! If you’re looking for a guide to the best classic films of all time, this list is for you.
Hollywood has long been the home of moviemaking, producing a wealth of cinematic masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. From the silent film era to the modern age of digital effects, Hollywood has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling, technical innovation, and artistic expression.
Join us as we explore the best classic Hollywood movies you need to watch, timeless classics that showcase the rich tapestry of cinematic history. Just grab some popcorn and enjoy a true odyssey on the silver screen!
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Casablanca
Casablanca is considered one of the greatest classic romance movies of all time, and for good reason. From the acting, the writing, the filming and the music, it’s all memorable. In this classic 1941 masterpiece, two old lovers, Humphrey Bogart (Rick) and Ingrid Bergman (Ilsa), meet up in Casablanca in World War II. Rick, who owns a bar, quickly rekindles with Ilsa and their feelings for one another heighten as they reminisce on the past. Casablanca features one of the most romantic songs of all time, As Time Goes By (Herman Hupfeld), and today, the film claims the title as one of the most quotable classic films – a definite must watch for the romance film lovers.
Chinatown
Released in 1974, Chinatown is one of the greatest noir mysteries of all time, plunging you into a rollercoaster of twist and turns like few others. Set in the sun-soaked yet shadowy 1930s Los Angeles, follow Jack Nicholson as private investigator Jake Gittes, who inadvertently gets tangled in a web of water rights, murder, and shifty shenanigans, crafting a twisty plot is as sharp as a cactus needle, and dialogue that crackles with wit and suspense. Playing opposite Nicholson is Faye Dunaway’s enigmatic femme fatale that’ll keep you guessing long after the credits roll. Chinatown is a cinematic cocktail of suspense, scandal, and 70s swagger, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves their movies with a side of intrigue and a splash of style.
Citizen Kane
Considered by many as one of the greatest films of all time, there’s no doubt that Citizen Kane had to be on this list of the best Hollywood classic films. Directed, produced, co-written and starred by Orson Welles, Citizen Kane (1941) has gone on to be an award-winning film. The plot follows the life of media mogul, Charles Foster Kane, after his last mysterious word ‘Rosebud’. Winding its way between the past of young Kane and the present, Kane’s life unfolds. From his impoverished beginnings to his political ambitions, meeting his wives and all of the important figures in his life along the way. The acting, script and overall directing has been praised since its preview, going on to feature in countless lists of one of the top old movies to watch.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
A testament to movie magic, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, is a quintessential classic Hollywood film. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this heartfelt story about the unlikely friendship between a young boy and a gentle alien captivated audiences when it was first released in 1982, going on to be one of the greatest sci-fi movies of all time. Spielberg’s masterful direction, combined with John Williams’ iconic score, creates an emotional experience that elevate E.T. beyond a mere sci-fi adventure to a timeless tale that continues to enchant and inspire audiences across generations!
The Godfather
One of the most iconic and praised movies of all time, The Godfather is a cinematic masterpiece that reigns as the ultimate classic in the gangster genre. The film’s intricate plot, rich characters, and impeccable pacing draw viewers into the ruthless world of organized crime. Director Francis Ford Coppola’s masterful direction, coupled with a stellar ensemble cast of Al Pacino and Marlon Brando’s iconic portrayal of Don Vito Corleone, create an epic saga of family, loyalty, and the American dream gone awry. The Godfather stands as a towering achievement in cinema, cementing its status as a classic for the ages.
Gone with the Wind
Adapted from the novel of the same name, Gone with the Wind is an epic historical romance set in the south of the United States during the Civil War. This film was a huge box office success, and when adjusted for inflation, it is still the highest grossing film of all time. The two leads were cast perfectly with Vivian Leigh portraying Scarlett O’Hara and Clark Gable as Rhett. The long and dramatic plot is anchored by Scarlett, a headstrong and passionate woman, expertly played by the incredible Leigh, one of the main reasons to watch.
Jaws
Another Spielberg classic, Jaws is a cinematic tour de force that redefined the summer blockbuster and remains a timeless classic. Telling the story of the small island community of Amity as a great white shark terrorises the locals and pushes many to their limits. With a combination of practical effects and John Williams’ iconic score, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, even decades after its release. Jaws is more than just a creature feature, it’s a gripping tale of survival and human folly that has solidifying its status as one of the greatest and most influential Hollywood movies of all time.
Rear Window
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock and considered as one of his best films, Rear Window remains one of the best mystery thriller classic movies of all time. Following a professional photographer with a broken leg as he looks out from his rear window into his neighbours apartments and lives, he soon becomes obsessed with one couple in particular. Supported by his nurse Stella and socialite girlfriend Lisa (played by Grace Kelly), the photographer continues watching from his window soon realising that one of his suspects stops appearing. Filled with Hitchcock’s signature suspenseful directing style, Rear Window is the perfect example of heightened drama.
Rebel Without a Cause
Rebel Without a Cause is iconic for so many reasons. Starting with the cast, Rebel Without a Cause features one of the biggest movie stars of all time, including the now late James Dean alongside Natalie Woods who was nominated for an Oscar three times before the age of 25 – all before drowning under suspicious circumstances. The name of the film is instantly recognisable and the plot of disaffected youth is universal. From the wonderful acting, engaging plot and James Dean’s infamous red jacket, Rebel Without a Cause lives up to its well-deserved hype as one of the best classic films ever made.
Singin’ in the Rain
Get your razzle dazzle on with one of the best movie musicals of all time. Directed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen, 1952’s Singin’ in the Rain is an exuberant celebration of the golden age of cinema. Set during the transition from silent films to talkies, the film combines witty dialogue, infectious energy, and an unforgettable performance by Gene Kelly that epitomises the joy and artistry of the musical genre. Vibrant technicolour visuals and timeless songs like Good Morning, Make ‘Em Laugh and Singin’ in the Rain remains the pinnacle of Hollywood’s musical achievements!
Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
The film that started it all. The first animated feature film of all time and the first major production of the then burgeoning Walt Disney Company, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves released in 1937 to near universal acclaim, continues to be a timeless fairytale classic. Telling the tale of a sweet, singing princess who befriends seven eccentric, pint-sized miners with names like Grumpy, Dopey, and Sneezy, who is soon ensnared in a trap by the Evil Queen who wishes to remain the fairest of them all. Enchanting audiences with its vibrant colours, whimsical animation, and lovable crew of motley characters, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs proves that classic tales that only get better with age.
Star Wars
No list of the best Hollywood classic films would be complete without Star Wars. Released in 1977, this cinematic masterpiece has transcended generations and genres. With its groundbreaking special effects, captivating storytelling and iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader, the film ignited the imaginations of audiences around the world. Director George Lucas’s visionary world-building created a galaxy far, far away that became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring millions of moviegoers that span the world (and perhaps the wider universe).
Sunset Boulevard
Almost as famous as the road it is named after, Sunset Boulevard is an iconic piece of noir cinema following a down-on-his-luck screenwriter who has a chance encounter with a long forgotten and emotionally fragile silent film star. Starring Gloria Swanson who brilliantly portrays the manipulative and twisted once-sparkling Norma Desmond, Sunset Boulevard also features William Holden as the penniless and idealistic screenwriter. A seamless production and cast, our favourite part of Sunset Boulevard is Erich von Stroheim who plays Gloria’s once husband, director and devoted butler.
The Wizard of Oz
Leave the sepia-tones of your life and experience technicolour tornado of pure cinematic magic that is The Wizard of Oz. This gem takes us on a wild ride down the yellow brick road – with Dorothy and her quirky crew including a brain-seeking Scarecrow, a heart-hunting Tin Man, and a courage-craving Lion. From the monocolour Kansas to the dazzling, rainbow-hued Land of Oz, the movies visuals were a game-changer. Yet, the real gem is Judy Garland’s Dorothy, belting out Over the Rainbow, tugging at heartstrings with the force of a flying house. The Wizard of Oz remains a cherished cornerstone of cinematic history, whisking audiences off to a land where anything is possible!
12 Angry Men
Perhaps one of the most famous courtroom drama’s ever written, 12 Angry Men is an iconic piece of film. Unique in the sense that all but three minutes of the film takes place in the same room, where the jury is sent to deliberate the fate of the 18-year-old defendant who, if found guilty, will be hanged. As the 12 men, called by their juror numbers, discuss and deliberate, the viewer learns about each of their personalities and backgrounds. As the guilty and reasonable doubt arguments twist and turn with people changing their votes, the tension heightens, making a gripping film. We pledge that this is by far one of the best movies of all time and is a must-watch for film lovers!
2001: Space Odyssey
Heralded as one of the best and most influential films of all time, Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: Space Odyssey is a classic movie that everyone should see at least once. Blending classical music, beautiful cinematography, a compelling plot and dialogue which is used sparingly to great effect. The themes of existentialism, human evolution and artificial intelligence are prescient. The film follows a space voyage to Jupiter to explore extraterrestrial life, with a shape largely run by a human-like AI, HAL 9000. Some see this as dark and foreboding, while others see the film as hopeful for humanity. Watch it and decide for yourself.
After you’ve screened your way through classic movies list, catch something new on the big screen at one of these 14 Retro and Unique Classic Cinemas in Australia. Or, reboot your watchlist with this Guide to the 10 Best Movie Remakes of All Time.
