25 Iconic Films to Watch and 10 Longest Movies Ever

Choosing 25 films to watch is a daunting task because of the vast and rich tapestry of cinema history. However, mixing it up by selecting a diverse range of films can provide a well-rounded cinematic experience. This article delves into both the timeless classics and the marathon-worthy films to give you a comprehensive list.

25 Essential Iconic Films

The Godfather (1972)
- Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, The Godfather is a seminal film in the crime genre, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and violence. The Godfather: Part II (1974)
- The sequel to The Godfather, this film is an epic saga that unfolds decades before the original, intertwining two generations of the Corleone family. Paddington (2014), Paddington 2 (2017)
- Centered around the lovable bear, these films bring a charming, heartwarming touch to cinematic storytelling, suitable for all ages. Cinema Paradiso (1988)
- Directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, this film is a tribute to the magic of cinema, exploring the power of storytelling through the eyes of a young filmmaker. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
- Stanley Kubrick's darkly comedic yet chilling exploration of free will and violence. Casablanca (1942)
- A classic of the romantic drama genre, Casablanca is known for its iconic lines and timeless emotions. Wall-E (2008)
- A groundbreaking animated feature from Pixar, showcasing the possibility of environmental themes in a children's film. Fushigi Yun Bai (Unknown World) (1999)
- An action-packed series, this film presents an intriguing storyline that blends adventure with fantasy. Parasite (2019)
- The Baek family's scheming against the wealthy Park family, this South Korean film won the Palme d'Or at Cannes and was nominated for numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture. 12 Angry Men (1957)
- A powerful courtroom drama that delves into the complexities of the judicial system and a jury's role in determining a verdict. Brazil (1985)
- A satirical black comedy from Terry Gilliam, exploring themes of bureaucracy and technology out of control. Office Space (1999)
- A hilarious and realistic portrayal of the modern corporate world, this film has become a cult classic. Singing in the Rain (1952)
- A musical comedy featuring song and dance that captures the essence of Hollywood's golden age. This film is a celebration of the filmmaking process and the power of music and dance. Toy Story (1995)
- The first feature-length computer-animated film, Toy Story revolutionized the industry and set a new standard for animated storytelling. Turbo Kid (2015)
- A French-Canadian post-apocalyptic film that pays homage to 1980s action movies with a fresh perspective. This film showcases action, humor, and nostalgia. The World’s End (2013)
- Richard Ayoade's quirky, cult film about a group of friends attempting to recreate their favorite pub crawl for one last time before re-parking their respective rockets. Apocalypse Now (1979)
- Francis Ford Coppola's epic war drama set in Vietnam, exploring the psychological impact of the Vietnam War and the nature of madness. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)
- An iconic film that combines romance with the themes of urban life and self-discovery, famous for Audrey Hepburn's performance. El Secreto de Sus Ojos (2010)
- An Argentine psychological thriller that tells the story of a detective and a prison warden who become entangled in a dangerous and emotional cat-and-mouse game. This film is praised for its intense narrative and expertise in storytelling. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
- A drama that explores hope, friendship, and survival in the face of injustice, this film is a testament to the power of the human spirit. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
- Stanley Kubrick's groundbreaking science fiction masterpiece that delves into humanity's evolution and the potential of artificial intelligence. The Maltese Falcon (1941)
- A classic film noir masterpiece directed by John Huston, capturing the essence of the genre with its intricate plot and superb performances. Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2003)
- A hilarious and surreal comedy from Peter Chan that blends Kung Fu tropes with modern pop culture references, showcasing the fun and satire of action films. The Room (2003)
- Intended to be a romantic comedy but mistakenly constructed as a disaster, The Room is now a cult symbol, known for its unintentional comedy and poor direction.

10 Longest Movies Ever

Here are the ten longest movies ever made, perfect for marathon movie nights or extensive film festivals.

Shoah (1985)
- Claude Lanzmann's nine and a half-hour Holocaust documentary, a monumental work providing a raw account of Nazi concentration camps and its aftermath. Its length underscores the weight and importance of the subject matter. The Bible (1980)
- A nine-hour epic that covers the Bible's Old and New Testaments, providing a grandiose narrative journey through the religious and historical texts. Gone with the Wind (1939)
- This 3-hour and 23-minute film is a cinematic masterpiece, recreating the American Civil War and Reconstruction through the lens of a protagonist who survives in the male-dominated world. Its epic scope and rich storytelling make it one of the longest and most iconic films ever. Gettysburg (1993)
- This film focuses on the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War, with a runtime of around 4 hours and 14 minutes. It's a strategic, historical epic that vividly captures the Battle of Gettysburg. Gods and Generals (2003)
- A 3-hour and 39-minute prequel to Gettysburg, this film dives into the Civil War's critical aspects by focusing on the life of Confederate General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson. Jesus of Nazareth (1979)
- A six-and-a-half-hour religious epic that tells the story of Jesus' life from childhood to crucifixion, using cinema to reflect biblical narratives. Roots (1977)
- This 9-hour miniseries is based on Alex Haley's novel, chronicling the life of a freed African American and his background in the slave trade. It's a powerful exploration of family history and the legacies of slavery. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
- A 3-hour and 47-minute epic directed by David Lean, exploring the life of T.E. Lawrence in World War I and his encounter with the Arab tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. Giant (1956)
- A sprawling, 3-hour and 21-minute drama that delves into the lives of Texas ranchers during the early 20th century, covering themes of family, wealth, and politics.

By watching these ten films, you can soak in a substantial amount of cinematic history and appreciate the sheer scale and detail required to produce such extended works of art.

AFI's Top 100 Films of All Time

The American Film Institute (AFI) lists among its top films the following:
- Schindler's List (1993)
- Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)
- Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
- Monty Python's The Life of Brian (1979)
- Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
- Watership Down (1978)
- Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)
- The Wicker Man (1973)
- Disney's Fantasia (1940)
- Reb...
For a full list, visit AFI's official website and do some research based on your personal preferences, favorite genres, and directors, and craft your own personalized selection.

Enjoy your cinematic journey!

Conclusion

Whichever films you choose to watch, remember the importance of cultivating a diverse viewing diet. Whether you're looking to explore classic masterpieces, delving into long-form stories, or enjoying the sheer number of films, these suggestions should provide you with a well-rounded and memorable experience.