Best Movies on Max Right Now, According to Data

In this 2005 reboot, a grief-stricken Bruce Wayne transforms into Batman, battling comic book villains Ra’s al Ghul and Scarecrow to save Gotham City from chaos. The movie is highly regarded for its mature, character-driven storyline, realistic tone, and deeper exploration of Batman’s psychological motivations, revitalizing the character with a more serious style.

Set between 1927 and 1932, this French comedy-drama depicts the relationship of a young rising actress and an older silent film star, against the backdrop of the transition from silent movies to “talkies.” “The Artist” is lauded for its unique silent film style, robust performances, and evocative score, earning numerous awards including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor at the Academy Awards.

In this 1969 Western, outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, after multiple train robberies, evade a relentless posse by fleeing to Bolivia with Sundance’s lover, Etta. The film is highly regarded for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance, and impressive character portrayals. In 2008, it was ranked the seventh-greatest Western by the American Film Institute.

In 1967, a U.S. Army volunteer, Chris Taylor (Martin Sheen), serves in Vietnam, witnessing the moral conflict between his platoon sergeant and squad leader (Tom Berenger and Willem Dafoe) over war ethics. “Platoon” is considered exceptional because of Stone’s realistic directing and screenplay (he served in Vietnam), the impressive acting performances, and the film’s critical depiction of the Vietnam War.

In a dystopian future, humanity unknowingly exists within the Matrix, a simulated reality created by machines to exploit human bodies for energy. Computer programmer “Neo” discovers this truth and joins a rebellion against the machines. The film is hailed for its innovative visual effects, action sequences, cinematography, entertainment value, and its influence on subsequent Hollywood action films.

Seven people are trapped in a rural Pennsylvania farmhouse, under attack by the undead, in this groundbreaking 1968 horror film. “Night of the Living Dead” is considered one of the most influential films of all time, with its innovative take on horror, explicitly violent scenes, and reflection of social changes during the 1960s. Its success led to a profitable franchise, and its cultural significance has been recognized by its induction into the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress.

Eight years after “The Dark Knight,” Batman must save Gotham City from Bane’s nuclear threat. The movie is known for its satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, positive reviews, and record-breaking gross earnings. The film grossed $1.1 billion in worldwide ticket sales.

In this 1980 comedy, traumatized ex-pilot Ted Striker boards a flight to win back his ex-girlfriend, flight attendant Elaine. When the crew and passengers fall ill, Striker must overcome his fear of flying to land the plane. Airplane! is considered an enduring classic with its surreal humor, fast-paced slapstick comedy, and critical and commercial success.

In this 1973 film, Bruce Lee, a Hong Kong martial artist, is recruited to infiltrate a crime lord’s high-profile tournament on a private island, leading to intense battles and revelations. The movie’s success stems from its fusion of martial arts action, spy elements, and blaxploitation genre — an ethnic subgenre of the exploitation film that emerged in the United States during the early 1970s — as well as its cultural and aesthetic significance. Its influence on action films and global interest in martial arts is also notable.

In a magical kingdom, Sophie, a young hat maker, gets cursed by a witch, turning her into an old woman. She finds solace in wizard Howl’s moving castle, becoming part of his resistance against a war. The film is well-regarded for its stunning visuals, unique presentation of themes like anti-war, old age positivity, feminism, and its strong message of life’s worth.

A giant gorilla named Kong, captured from Skull Island and exhibited in New York, escapes and causes havoc, climbing the newly constructed Empire State Building in an attempt to protect Ann Darrow, whom he’s formed a bond with. “King Kong” is an enduring legacy, iconic monster character, and symbol of creative storytelling in the U.S.

In this thrilling third installment of the franchise, former CIA assassin Jason Bourne continues his search for information about his past, evading pursuit while dealing with flashbacks of his joining Operation Treadstone. “The Bourne Ultimatum” has garnered acclaim from critics, winning three Academy Awards, and has been chosen as one of the top 10 films of 2007 by the National Board of Review.

“Judas and the Black Messiah” dramatizes the betrayal of Black Panther Party’s Fred Hampton by FBI informant William O’Neal during late-1960s Chicago. The film stands out due to King’s acclaimed direction, compelling screenplay, remarkable performances and its relevant themes, earning it six Oscar nominations and two Academy Award wins.

Director John Cassavetes famously mortgaged his house and borrowed money to fund the production of “A Woman Under the Influence.” In the 1974 drama capturing the difficulties faced by contemporary women, a Los Angeles housewife’s erratic behavior leads to strife with her husband and family, culminating in her institutionalization. The film received two Academy Award nominations. Its honest depiction of mental illness and family dynamics resonated with audiences and critics alike.

After losing his job, Henri Verdoux supports his family by marrying and murdering rich widows. However, his murderous spree ends when he is recognized and convicted. Monsieur Verdoux is appreciated for its dark humor, Charlie Chaplin’s captivating performance, and its social commentary on war and capitalism. Chaplin and Orson Welles co-wrote the screenplay.

In this romantic fantasy directed by French poet and filmmaker Jean Cocteau, a cruel prince is transformed into a beast, only breaking the curse by learning to love. Belle, a book-loving villager, stumbles into becoming his chance at redemption. The film’s success is attributed to its talented cast, memorable songs, and stunning visual detail.

In a tense hostage scenario, four men, using codenames, seize a New York City subway train, demanding a $1 million ransom. The film is highly regarded for its thrilling plot, sharp dialogue, and innovative musical score, earning a 100% rating by at least 42 critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

Strangers board a stagecoach from Arizona to New Mexico, each harboring secrets, in this American film set in the 1880s. Amid threats from native Americans, their journey includes a sex worker, an alcoholic doctor, a pregnant woman, and a whiskey salesman. “Stagecoach” is known as legendary Western actor John Wayne’s breakthrough role. The movie won two Oscars and was nominated for five others. The film was selected to be preserved in the National Film Registry in the Library of Congress in 1995.

In this science-fiction epic, astronauts, scientists, and a sentient supercomputer called HAL 9000 voyage to Jupiter to investigate an alien monolith, leading to a sequence of unexpected and threatening events. The film is lauded for its innovative special effects, scientifically accurate depiction of space flight, and exploration of profound themes such as human evolution and artificial intelligence.

“Babette’s Feast” is a moving tale of a French housekeeper with a mysterious past who goes to a Danish village to flee the Franco-Prussian War. Through the preparation of one exquisite meal, she brings quiet revolution to a community of pious villagers.The film won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film. The distribution company Janus Films includes “Babette’s Feast” in its Criterion Collection.

Set in 1957, young boy Hogarth Hughes befriends a giant alien robot, hiding it with the aid of artist Dean McCoppin from the U.S. military and a paranoid federal agent. Despite initial box-office underperformance, the film is hailed for its storytelling, animation, and character portrayals, garnering a cult following and numerous awards.

In this 1974 horror-comedy, Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, embarrassed by his infamous family legacy, inherits his Transylvania estate and resumes his grandfather’s experiments, resulting in a humorous, chaotic revival of the dead. A classic Mel Brooks comedy, this film has become famous for its clever parody of classic horror films, and memorable performances. It is among many films on this list that has been added to the National Registry of Films at the Library of Congress.

Directed by legendary animation maker Hayao Myazaki, “Castle in the Sky” is set in the late 19th century and tells the tale of a boy and girl who embark on a quest to protect a mystical crystal, while searching for a legendary floating castle. The film is widely recognized as a classic in the steampunk and dieselpunk genres.

Adapted from L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s stories, “The Wizard of Oz” was nominated for six Oscars at the 1940s Academy Awards, winning Best Original Song and Best Original Score. The story is about Dorothy Gale who is transported to a fantasy world from her small farm in Kansas by a tornado. She journeys to Emerald City for help to return home.

One of director Woody Allen’s most famous films, “Annie Hall” is about struggling comedian Alvy Singer and his search for reasons behind his failed relationship with the titular character. The film takes a satirical approach to its comedy-drama narrative, showcasing stark contrasts between New York City and Los Angeles, gender stereotypes, Jewish identity, and elements of psychoanalysis and modernism. It earned critical acclaim and multiple awards, including four Academy Awards.

In 1914 London, washed-up clown Calvero saves a suicidal dancer from death, helping her regain self-esteem and her career. Despite a failed comeback and heart attack, Calvero manages a successful final performance before dying. “Limelight” is famous for its personal and autobiographical undertones, Chaplin’s compelling performance, and its cult following.

Set in the desolate winter environment of northern Minnesota, a financially desperate car salesman instigates his wife’s kidnapping to extort money from his wealthy father-in-law, leading to a triple homicide investigation by a pregnant police chief in this crime thriller. “Fargo” has been praised for its direction, script, and acting, winning Oscars for Best Actress and Best Original Screenplay.

Set during the Great Depression, a con man and a young girl form an unlikely duo engaging in money-making scams across Kansas and Missouri. Their bond deepens despite numerous trials. The movie is lauded for its authentic portrayal of the era and sharp script. Tatum O’Neal, at age 10, became the youngest winner ever in a competitive category.

“Raging Bull” traces the rise and fall of middleweight boxing champion Jake LaMotta, showcasing his turbulent personal life marked by uncontrollable rage and jealousy. The film’s greatness lies in its brilliant performances, notably Robert De Niro’s, meticulous editing, and Scorsese’s detailed direction, winning two Academy Awards including Best Actor for De Niro.

In this 1984 sci-fi action film, a cybernetic assassin, the Terminator, is sent from 2029 to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor, whose unborn son will save humanity. Soldier Kyle Reese is sent to protect Sarah. The movie’s success is attributed to its innovative premise, groundbreaking special effects, James Cameron’s direction, and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s star-turning performance.

One of the older, top-rated movies on Max this month, this epic war film from 1957 tells the tale of a Japanese POW camp in Thailand, where British prisoners are forced to build a railway bridge over the River Kwai. Despite initial resistance, the prisoners’ leader becomes obsessed with constructing a quality bridge. Simultaneously, an escaped prisoner joins a mission to destroy the span.

“The Bridge on the River Kwai ” is considered a masterpiece because of its gripping plot and stellar performances. It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It is among many classic films on this list preserved by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance.

“The Tale of The Princess Kaguya” is an animated historical fantasy about a miniature girl found in a bamboo shoot who grows rapidly into a princess in a rural village. Forced into nobility and away from her friends, she struggles with societal constraints. The film is acclaimed for its high-quality animation, sensitive adaptation of a historic literary tale, and for being the final work of respected director, Isao Takahata.

In a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, an Irish mob boss plants a spy in the Massachusetts State Police, while the police send an undercover trooper to infiltrate the gang. Their attempts to unmask each other form the crux of the plot. The film’s success is owed to its direction, performances, screenplay, and editing, garnering four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese.

In the final chapter of the trilogy, Frodo, Sam and Gollum continue their journey toward Mount Doom to destroy the Ring of Power, while the rest of the fellowship wage war against Sauron’s forces in Minas Tirith. The movie is considered exemplary for its visual effects, performances, direction, screenplay, musical score, emotional depth, and scope. It won all 11 Academy Awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture and Best Director for Peter Jackson.

A Texan sheriff, with the help of a disabled man, an alcoholic, and a young gunfighter, arrests a powerful rancher’s brother for murder and defends the jail from the rancher’s gang until a U.S. marshal can arrive. Considered to be of significant cultural, historical, and aesthetic value, “Rio Bravo” was added to the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry in 2014.

In this 1928 silent film, Charlie Chaplin’s Little Tramp character is employed by a struggling circus and accidentally becomes its star. Amid comic chaos and a love triangle, he ultimately chooses to leave for the happiness of others. The movie is the seventh highest-grossing silent film in the history of American cinema.

Two musicians in 1929 Chicago witness a mob hit and disguise themselves as women to escape the gangsters. They join an all-female band and struggle with maintaining their disguises while falling for the band’s vocalist. “Some Like It Hot” is a beloved classic for its mix of crime, comedy, and romance elements, coupled with its daring exploration of taboo topics. Its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance earned it a spot in the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress, and its popularity played a part in the retirement of the Hays Code.

In a satirical critique of fascism and antisemitism, Charlie Chaplin portrays a Jewish barber who suffers from amnesia and a ruthless fascist dictator, as World War II consumed Europe. The film is celebrated for its impactful monologue, historical significance, comedic brilliance and cultural importance, earning it five Academy Award nominations.

“Le Samouraï” follows a professional hitman navigating a complex web of murder, betrayal, and police pursuit in 1960s Paris. The film is lauded for Melville’s atmospheric direction and suspenseful writing, and Alain Delon’s captivating performance.

A poor family infiltrates a wealthy household by posing as unrelated, qualified individuals in various jobs in this South Korean thriller. The film is highly acclaimed for its direction, screenplay, editing, depiction of class conflict, and production design, earning numerous accolades including Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film. “Parasite” is the first non-English language movie to win Best Picture.

During the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century, a lonely prospector and a brave optimist endure extreme hardships in their quest for gold, including hunger and harsh weather. The film, one of the older movies on this list, is loved for its blend of comedy and tragedy, Charlie Chaplin’s memorable performance, and its cultural significance, and is in the Library of Congress National Film Registry.

Matt Damon starred as self-taught genius Will Hunting, who works as a janitor at MIT. He impresses a professor with his brilliance in math. However, his troubled past and emotional defenses hinder his progress until a therapist (played by Robin Williams) starts challenging him. “Good Will Hunting” is marked by its strong acting performances, particularly by Williams who won an Academy Award in 1998 for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

In a quest to destroy the powerful One Ring, young hobbit Frodo Baggins, guided by the wizard Gandalf, journeys with an ensemble of companions across Middle-earth, facing numerous perils. The film is highly regarded by Lord of the Rings fans for its relatively faithful adaptation of the source material, and known as a cinematic achievement for its breathtaking visual effects, riveting performances, and Peter Jackson’s visionary direction. The movie won four Oscars.

FBI trainee Clarice Starling seeks imprisoned cannibalistic killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter’s advice to catch “Buffalo Bill,” a serial killer who skins his female victims. The film has been praised for exceptional direction, powerful performances, especially by Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, and its unique achievement of winning all five major Academy Awards.

The quintessential MGM musical is set in the late 1920s Hollywood, as stars Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), and Cosmo Brown (Donald O’Connor) navigate the transition from silent films to “talkies”, amid romantic and professional complications. “Singin’ in the Rain” is hailed for its lighthearted depiction of Hollywood’s golden age, expert choreography, and memorable musical numbers, often ranking as one of the greatest musical films ever made. It was named to the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry in 1989.

In this 2002 epic fantasy sequel, Frodo and Sam journey toward Mordor, guided by Gollum. Concurrently, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli team up with the revived Gandalf to fight Saruman’s army at Helm’s Deep, while Merry and Pippin orchestrate an attack on Isengard. The film won two Oscars and is esteemed for its impressive direction, performances, special effects, and action sequences, solidifying its status as a seminal work in fantasy cinema.

In a satirical take on the industrialized world, Charlie Chaplin’s iconic Little Tramp character struggles with assembly-line work, causing factory chaos and landing in jail. He navigates unemployment, arrests, jobs, and encounters with an orphaned girl, ending with a hopeful future. “Modern Times” is among several top-rated Charlie Chaplin films available on Max this month.

In this 1994 crime film, four intersecting tales of crime and violence unfold in Los Angeles, featuring hitmen, a prizefighter, a gangster and his wife, and two would-be diner bandits. The narrative occurs out of chronological order, with punchy dialogue and graphic violence. “Pulp Fiction” is highly regarded for its innovative screenwriting, unconventional structure, and powerful performances.

In this Batman sequel, Batman, James Gordon, and Harvey Dent unite to combat organized crime in Gotham. Their plan is thwarted by the Joker, who aims to push Batman’s moral limits. The film is celebrated for its mature themes, visual style, and strong performances, notably Heath Ledger’s Joker, and its realistic, gritty tone has influenced many other superhero films. The film won two Academy Awards, including a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Heath Ledger, the only actor to have won an award in this category after death.

A 10-year-old girl, Chihiro, stumbles into a world of spirits while moving to a new neighborhood. After her parents are transformed into pigs by a witch, she works in the witch’s bathhouse to find a way to free herself and her parents. “Spirited Away” is praised for its rich storytelling, unique animation style, and exploration of Japanese Shinto folklore. The film has received numerous awards, including the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. “Spirited Away” was the highest-grossing film of all time in Japan for more than two decades.