565 Essential Films According to Cinefix
551 titles
- 501
Phone BoothMovie · 2003 · 81m · Thriller, CrimeA sharp New York publicist answering a phone in a booth receives a chilling threat: hang up, or face death. A laser sight confirms the caller's seriousness.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 502
The World Is Not EnoughMovie · 1999 · 128m · Adventure, Action, ThrillerJames Bond must protect a wealthy oil heiress from a dangerous terrorist group planning worldwide chaos using advanced technology. With the world's oil supply at risk, Bond must overcome difficult political situations and face thrilling action to stop them. The story explores greed, revenge, and power, all while showcasing Bond's signature style in a suspenseful international adventure that climaxes on a submarine.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 503
X-MenMovie · 2000 · 104m · Adventure, Action, Science FictionRogue and Wolverine arrive at a secluded school for mutants. There, the X-Men, the school's superhero team, face a threat from a terrorist group with powers mirroring their own.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 504
A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on ExistenceMovie · 2014 · 100m · Drama, Comedy, FantasyThis pitch-black comedy blends absurdity, surrealism, and shocking moments, shifting seamlessly between nightmare, fantasy, and deadpan humor. It explores the enduring theme of human cruelty.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 505
District B13Movie · 2004 · 84m · Action, Thriller, Science FictionIn the impoverished districts of Paris in 2010, an undercover police officer with a past as a criminal attempts to join a dangerous gang. His mission: to prevent the detonation of a neutron bomb.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 506
Young AdultMovie · 2011 · 94m · Comedy, DramaA divorced writer from the Midwest goes back to her hometown to see an old love. He's married now, with a family. They reconnect.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.8 - 507
Floating WeedsMovie · 1959 · 115m · DramaA celebrated theater director unexpectedly reunites with his former lover, setting off a series of unforeseen events. The film unfolds within the world of traditional Japanese theater, gently examining themes of love, duty, and how past decisions shape the present. His rekindled romance triggers consequences for everyone connected, especially the young performers in his troupe who are forced to face difficult truths about themselves. This respectful adaptation of Ozu's 1934 silent film, *The Story of Floating Weeds*, presents a nuanced look at the intricacies of human connection.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 508
Robin Hood: Men in TightsMovie · 1993 · 104m · ComedyAgainst a backdrop of major historical events, this compelling story follows Robin Hood as he returns to his home country after years spent fighting in the Crusades. He is dismayed to find King Richard has been exiled and that the ruthless King John, aided by the shrewd Sheriff of Rottingham, now holds power. Robin Hood then gathers a band of patriotic allies, united by their love for their land and opposition to tyranny. Together, they undertake a difficult mission to challenge King John's oppressive rule and the corrupt Sheriff. The story explores themes of loyalty, justice, and overcoming hardship, presenting audiences with an exciting historical drama filled with action and suspense.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 509
The Hobbit: The Desolation of SmaugMovie · 2013 · 161m · Fantasy, Adventure, ActionHaving safely navigated the Misty Mountains, Bilbo, Gandalf, and the Dwarves now press onward. Bilbo has acquired the One Ring, and their quest continues: to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 510
FaultsMovie · 2014 · 90m · Drama, Comedy, CrimeClaire is trapped by a strange new cult known as Faults. Hoping to get their daughter back, Claire's parents seek out Ansel Roth, a leading expert in mind control.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 511
SnowpiercerMovie · 2013 · 127m · Action, Science Fiction, DramaAfter a disastrous attempt to combat global warming decimates Earth's population, humanity survives aboard Snowpiercer, a train perpetually circling the globe. Within its walls, a rigid class system has emerged.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 512
UpMovie · 2009 · 96m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyCarl Fredricksen has always longed to travel and live life to the fullest. But at 78, he feels his opportunities have vanished, until an unexpected turn of events – and the determined 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer Russell – offer him a chance at a new beginning.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 513
Short Term 12Movie · 2013 · 96m · DramaGrace works as a supervisor at a foster care center, dedicated to helping vulnerable teenagers. However, a new teen assignment forces Grace to confront painful memories from her past, causing her carefully constructed composure to weaken.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 514
Enter the VoidMovie · 2010 · 161m · Fantasy, DramaA young American drug dealer and addict named Oscar lives in Tokyo with his prostitute sister, Linda. The film follows Oscar's spirit as it journeys through life after death. He relives memories of his parents before they died, witnesses his own autopsy in the present, and observes his sister from beyond the grave in the future. This is all experienced from Oscar’s perspective.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 515
The Empire Strikes BackMovie · 1980 · 124mLuke Skywalker seeks to defeat the evil Galactic Empire by learning the ways of the Jedi from Master Yoda. However, Darth Vader is relentlessly pursuing Luke. At the same time, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, and the droids C-3PO and R2-D2 face capture, betrayal, and despair.IMDb 8.7TMDB 8.4 - 516
The Last LaughMovie · 1924 · 90m · DramaThis drama tells the story of an elderly doorman whose respected career at a high-end hotel ends abruptly with his dismissal. Once known for his wit and refined manners, he now battles to maintain his pride as he confronts societal disapproval. Abandoned by friends and the subject of gossip, the protagonist must cope with a growing isolation that tests his sense of community and who he is. The film explores aging, social standing, and the strength of the human spirit when facing hardship.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 517
AjamiMovie · 2009 · 120m · Crime, DramaIn the diverse neighborhood of Ajami, Tel Aviv, where Arabs, Palestinians, Jews, and Christians coexist uneasily, lives Omar, an Israeli Arab fighting to protect his family from ruthless extortionists. He also pursues a relationship with Hadir, a beautiful Christian woman. Meanwhile, Malek, an undocumented Palestinian worker, desperately seeks funds for his mother's medical treatment. And Dando, an Israeli police officer, is determined to find his missing brother, who may have been killed by Palestinians.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 518
Romeo and JulietMovie · 1968 · 138m · Drama, RomanceTwo powerful families are locked in a bitter feud. Amidst this conflict, two young people fall in love. Despite their families' hatred, they begin a passionate romance and decide to run away together. But their escape doesn't lead to a happy ending; instead, they face a devastating tragedy that forever changes their love.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 519
Punch-Drunk LoveMovie · 2002 · 96m · Romance, Drama, ComedyA man who struggles with social situations and has a tendency to be unpredictable finds love when he's targeted by a group of criminals.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 520
The Hurt LockerMovie · 2008 · 131m · Drama, Thriller, WarSet during the Iraq War, the film follows a Sergeant newly assigned to an army bomb squad. His unconventional approach to the job creates friction and conflict with his fellow squad members.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 521
The Dark Knight RisesMovie · 2012 · 165m · Action, Crime, DramaAfter District Attorney Harvey Dent's death, Batman takes the blame for Dent's crimes to safeguard his memory, becoming the target of the Gotham City Police Department. Eight years later, Batman meets Selina Kyle and faces Bane, a new terrorist leader who overpowers Gotham's forces. The Dark Knight returns to defend a city that now sees him as a threat.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.8 - 522
SupermanMovie · 1978 · 144m · Science Fiction, Action, AdventureThis is the story of Clark Kent, a journalist at the Daily Planet who secretly lives a double life as the superhero Superman. He tries to balance his work and his feelings for Lois Lane while protecting the city from danger. When Lex Luthor, a powerful businessman, plans to take over the world, Superman must stop him from causing global disaster. Facing increasing danger and with time running out, Superman confronts his biggest challenge yet, all while dealing with the difficulties of relationships and the possibility of love.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 523
DesperadoMovie · 1995 · 104m · Thriller, Action, CrimeThe film follows El Mariachi as he journeys into the dangerous world along the Mexican border to find Bucho, the last drug lord. His quest is filled with violence and gunfire as he battles Bucho's criminals, using his skills and the help of unexpected allies. With a loyal friend and a bookstore owner by his side, El Mariachi relentlessly pursues Bucho, leading to intense fights and bloodshed. The movie portrays the harsh reality of this lawless area, delivering a high-energy story of revenge and survival within the chaos and corruption of the criminal underworld.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 524
Band of OutsidersMovie · 1964 · 97m · Crime, Drama, ComedyFranz and Arthur, devoted fans of film noir and Westerns, live in a world inspired by their favorite movies. They drift through Paris seeking adventure and meet Odile, a captivating woman who draws them into her orbit. The three form a connection through their shared passion for cinema and begin to challenge conventions with creative acts, like impromptu cafe dances or late-night visits to the Louvre.
Their admiration for outlaws leads them to plot a real heist, inspired by Hollywood’s antiheroes. However, their inexperience puts their plans at risk, potentially leading them into danger – a thrilling conclusion they've always envisioned. This unconventional story examines identity, loyalty, and the power of film, all set against the lively atmosphere of Paris.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 525
WeekendMovie · 1967 · 104m · ComedyA seemingly perfect weekend getaway to the countryside turns into a nightmare for a wealthy French family. Their idyllic escape quickly descends into chaos as societal order breaks down. The film explores the dark consequences of unchecked desires, as the family faces desperation and depravity in a once peaceful setting. Cannibalism and murder become increasingly common, forcing them to confront the fragility of civilization itself.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 526
The Lego MovieMovie · 2014 · 100m · Animation, Family, AdventureA regular Lego mini-figure is mistaken for the legendary MasterBuilder and unexpectedly joins a mission to defeat a wicked Lego tyrant who threatens to take over the entire universe.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 527
Team America: World PoliceMovie · 2004 · 98m · Adventure, Action, ComedyNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-il initiates a worldwide terrorist plot, prompting the elite, heavily armed Team America to intervene. The team, which includes troubled Broadway actor Gary Johnston, must confront Jong-il and navigate opposition from the Film Actors Guild, a group of Hollywood liberals who disapprove of Team America's global intervention methods.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 528
GravityMovie · 2013 · 91m · Science Fiction, Thriller, DramaMedical engineer Dr. Ryan Stone accompanies veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski on what's supposed to be his final Shuttle mission. During a routine spacewalk, disaster occurs when the Shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalski adrift in space, tethered only to each other. Cut off from Earth and any possibility of rescue, they face the terrifying silence of the void and dwindling oxygen supplies. Their only hope of returning home may lie in venturing deeper into the vastness of space.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2 - 529
Edge of TomorrowMovie · 2014 · 114m · Action, Science FictionLieutenant Bill Cage, a civilian officer with no combat experience, is abruptly sent into a dangerous battlefield. He's killed almost immediately, but manages to take down an alien. He then wakes up back at the start of the day, trapped in a time loop where he's forced to fight and die repeatedly.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 530
DreddMovie · 2012 · 96m · Action, Science FictionIn a bleak future America, a ruthless drug dealer named Ma-Ma threatens to seize control of the city with a dangerous new substance. The only hope lies with the Judges, an elite police force that acts as judge, jury, and enforcer, dispensing swift and brutal justice. Even Judge Dredd, the force's top officer, finds that stopping Ma-Ma proves more challenging than anticipated in this adaptation of the acclaimed comic series.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 531
The Hobbit: An Unexpected JourneyMovie · 2012 · 169m · Adventure, Fantasy, ActionBilbo Baggins, content with a peaceful existence, is drawn into a grand adventure when Gandalf the Grey and thirteen dwarves ask for his help in recovering their mountain kingdom from the dragon Smaug.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 532
ZodiacMovie · 2007 · 157m · Crime, Mystery, ThrillerFor ten years, editors at the San Francisco Chronicle become consumed by the Zodiac Killer case. As the years pass, however, professional interest fades. The Killer ceases his public communication. But convinced he holds the key to the remaining mysteries, an amateur cartoonist from the early sightings races against time to stop what he believes will be another killing.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 533
CleopatraMovie · 1963 · 251m · Drama, History, RomanceCleopatra, the clever Egyptian queen, uses both political maneuvering and charm to gain power. She first wins the favor of Julius Caesar, forming an important partnership with Rome. After Caesar's death, she cleverly aligns herself with the powerful and passionate Mark Antony. Together, they fight for control, but their plans are threatened by Caesar’s heir, leading to a difficult conflict that tests their bond and determines the future of Egypt and Rome.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 534
The Elephant ManMovie · 1980 · 124m · Drama, HistorySet in Victorian London, this drama tells the story of a man with severe disfigurement who is rescued from a life as a sideshow attraction by a kind surgeon. Based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, the film reveals his surprising intelligence and emotional depth beneath his appearance. As John Merrick struggles with societal challenges in 19th-century England, the story is a moving portrayal of strength and how compassion can conquer hardship. The film is a thoughtful look at an exceptional life and the prejudices prevalent during that time.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 535
White Men Can't JumpMovie · 1992 · 115m · Comedy, DramaTwo talented street basketball players compete with each other, using trickery to gain an edge. Their rivalry shifts when they discover a chance for a bigger payoff by working together.
Navigating the city's underbelly and the underground basketball scene, they find opportunities that could transform their lives. The film examines trust, ambition, and the evolving relationship between rivals becoming allies. Featuring dynamic basketball sequences and an energetic score, it shows the intense bond forming as they pursue a shared goal.
Blending sports action with character drama, this film captures the spirit of street basketball and the struggles of those striving for success in a tough urban world.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 536
The Legend of Drunken MasterMovie · 1994 · 102m · Action, ComedyDuring a period of significant social change, Wong Fei-Hong becomes involved in a complex conflict between opposing groups. Returning home with his father after shopping, he witnesses a growing dispute between foreign powers attempting to remove China's historical artifacts and those determined to protect them.
Wong Fei-Hong must use his distinctive Drunken Boxing, a fluid and unpredictable martial art, to safeguard the nation’s valuable cultural treasures. At the same time, he struggles with his father's disapproval, making his fight for justice more difficult.
The film explores themes of national pride, tradition, and family relationships through a compelling story about the strength of people facing hardship. Featuring impressive action and well-developed characters, it follows an exciting journey examining the challenges of maintaining cultural identity while adapting to change.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 537
Last Year at MarienbadMovie · 1961 · 95m · Drama, RomanceIn a remote, abandoned chateau, two strangers meet. A man believes he recognizes the woman, and he's determined to understand their connection. As they explore shared memories and puzzling coincidences, their conversation deepens, questioning what they remember and how they perceive reality. The chateau’s unsettling atmosphere further complicates things, blurring the line between what's real and imagined, leaving everyone wondering what the truth is.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 538
PinaMovie · 2011 · 106m · Documentary"Pina" is a 3D dance film featuring the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch company, created by the influential German choreographer who passed away in the summer of 2009.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 539
Secret in Their EyesMovie · 2015 · 111m · Thriller, Mystery, CrimeAn FBI team, led by their District Attorney supervisor, faces devastating personal tragedy when the teenage daughter of one of the agents is found murdered. The event shatters the team's unity and forces them to confront a horrific case with profound emotional consequences.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 540
The Most Dangerous GameMovie · 1932 · 63m · Thriller, Adventure, HorrorExperienced hunter Bob Rainsford is shipwrecked on a remote island and encounters the mysterious Count Zaroff. Initially welcomed as a guest, Rainsford soon discovers Zaroff's dangerous game: he hunts Rainsford and two other shipwreck survivors, siblings Eve and Martin Towbridge, like animals. The island's dense landscape becomes a deadly arena for this pursuit, as the hunted fight to survive against their ruthless captor.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 541
Pineapple ExpressMovie · 2008 · 111m · Action, Comedy, CrimeA laid-back guy and his drug dealer are thrown into chaos when the stoner accidentally sees a police officer commit a murder. Suddenly, they're both fugitives, desperately trying to evade the authorities.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 542
MiracleMovie · 2004 · 135m · Drama, HistoryCollege coach Herb Brooks takes charge of the 1980 U.S. men's Olympic hockey team, introducing an unconventional and demanding approach. Following an initial defeat, Brooks motivates his talented but undisciplined players to focus on a single goal: defeating the seemingly unbeatable Soviet team.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 543
You Can Count on MeMovie · 2000 · 111m · DramaA single mother's life is disrupted when her younger brother, who has been largely absent, unexpectedly returns home.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8 - 544
The CandidateMovie · 2011 · 19mA corporate climber, motivated by self-interest, accepts help from a clandestine group. He soon finds himself entangled in events far exceeding his understanding or ability to manage.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 545
It FollowsMovie · 2015 · 101m · Horror, MysteryAfter a sexual encounter, a young woman finds herself relentlessly pursued by an unseen supernatural presence.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 546
The Sweet HereafterMovie · 1997 · 112m · DramaThis drama explores the impact of a devastating school bus accident on a tight-knit Canadian mountain town, which resulted in the loss of over twelve young lives. A lawyer from the city arrives to help the grieving families pursue legal action, but his efforts to bring them together instead create further division within the community.
Amidst the community's struggle with loss and their pursuit of justice, a teenage survivor begins their own path to healing. Dealing with physical and emotional wounds from witnessing the tragedy, they must come to terms with a world irrevocably altered. The film offers a sensitive look at grief, recovery, and the search for meaning when confronted with unimaginable hardship, revealing the complex emotions that emerge during times of profound adversity.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 547
SwingersMovie · 1996 · 96m · Comedy, DramaWhen his six-year relationship ends, Mike decides to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the spotlight. After six months of struggling to break into the competitive industry, he finds himself disheartened. His friends step in, trying to help him rediscover happiness and reconnect with his social life. As Mike adjusts to his new life, he gains insights about love, friendship, and finding value in himself while pursuing success in both his personal and professional life.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 548
PlayTimeMovie · 1967 · 115m · ComedyThis charming comedy follows Monsieur Hulot as he tries to get through modern Paris, a city full of new technology and busy people. His trip to meet a business associate becomes a series of unexpected events, similar to an American tourist's experience in the same city. The two men, each dealing with their own problems, occasionally meet and become interested in each other.
As they both navigate Paris, they get involved in funny situations with all sorts of quirky locals. The story builds to a chaotic but heartwarming scene in a lively restaurant where everyone comes together. The film playfully looks at ideas about connecting with others, differences in culture, and finding happiness even when things are complicated.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 549
Five Easy PiecesMovie · 1970 · 98m · DramaA young man leaves behind a comfortable life for the harsh reality of oil rigs and rough environments. He moves from job to job, motel to motel, searching for meaning. In bars, gas stations, and other places where he finds temporary refuge with others like himself, he struggles with who he is and how to fit in – a world very different from his past. This story explores feelings of isolation, the gap between social classes, and the difficulty of finding one's place in a world that often seems uncaring.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 550
F for FakeMovie · 1973 · 89m · DocumentaryThe film explores the stories of Elmyr de Hory and Clifford Irving, two famous con artists who committed elaborate frauds that impacted the art and publishing worlds. De Hory became known for selling fake paintings by artists like Picasso and Matisse, and ultimately died by suicide to avoid further jail time. Irving gained attention for creating a false autobiography attributed to Howard Hughes.
Directed by Welles, the film blends documentary and fictional storytelling to examine the complexities of fraud and the people who carefully plan these deceptions. It looks closely at these individuals and their reasons, offering a detailed look at deception, identity, and the human urge to distort reality for personal benefit.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 551
Cries and WhispersMovie · 1972 · 95m · DramaThis film is a deeply emotional story about three sisters facing a loved one’s approaching death and their own personal difficulties. As Agnes battles cancer, her sisters are consumed by their own emotional struggles, making it hard for them to offer the support she needs in her final days. The drama explores how family can both comfort and hinder healing during difficult times. It examines themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and complicated relationships, offering a close look at the painful process of dealing with loss and mortality.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9
