Top 59 Best Pg 13 Movies On HBO Max In 2023 [Ranked]

 

PG-13 movies according to the Motion Picture Association (MPA) primarily refer to those films which require parental guidance for viewers under the age of 13. This is primarily because the films are said to contain scenes or content related to sex, nudity, vulgarity, and drug abuse, that are unsuitable for pre-teens.

 

If you're looking to enjoy a good PG-13 movie on HBO Max, we've listed quite a few of them below.

 

 

1. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

 

 

The cinematography of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is breathtaking. It's no surprise that Andrew Lesnie is considered one of the best in the industry.

 

But it's not just the visuals that make this film great - the story, direction, and acting are all top-notch. With an IMDb rating of 9 and critical acclaim, it's easy to see why this movie is a must-watch.

 

With Gondor being overrun by the orcs of Mordor, Gandalf rides to Minas Tirith to help the humans in the war ahead. Aragorn must now realise his real identity and his purpose as the King of Men and embark on a journey with Legolas and Gimli to summon the Army of the Dead so that they can defeat Saouron's evil army.

 

 

 

2. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

 

 

There are movies, and then there are works of art like The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The way Andrew Lesnie captures each shot is nothing short of stunning, and it's hard not to be in awe of their talent. But what makes this film truly special is how it balances style and substance.

 

The first movie in the franchise, this adventure sees a Hobbit from the Shire being tasked with a vital quest that will change the face of Middle-Earth and all the diverse races that dwell in it.

 

Memorable companions create a fellowship in the Elven realm of Rivendell. They set themselves on a mission to take the One Ring to Mordor and save the world from the cunning plans that the Dark Lord Sauron has in store for it.

 

This movie is based on epic novels by J. R. R. Tolkien.

 

 

 

3. A Separation (2011)

 

 

A Separation is a movie that has something for everyone. Directed by Asghar Farhadi, and featuring an exceptional cast led by Payman Maadi, Leila Hatami, and Sareh Bayat, the film was released in 2011 to universal acclaim.

 

It went on to gross an impressive $22,926,076 at the box office, cementing its place as one of the most successful movies of its time.

 

Nader, Simin and their daughter Termeh live in a flat in Tehran. Simin wants the family to leave Iran and has also prepared their visas, but Nader wants to stay and look after his Alzheimer-inflicted father.

 

Frustrated, Simin files for divorce, but the application is rejected, leading her to move back to her parent's home while her daughter stays with Nader. When Nader hires Razieh to look after his father, their life begins to spiral.

 

 

 

4. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

 

 

Starring Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, and Viggo Mortensen, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers has got to be one of the best action-adventure movies that came out in 2002.

 

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers a visually stunning movie is one of the best cinematographical works of Andrew Lesnie to date. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is one of the best-rated movies by users on IMDb, and it was acclaimed universally by critics.

 

With the Fellowship broken Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee go to Mordor alone to destroy the One Ring. Merry and Pippin are captured by the Uruk-hai, while Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli forge a friendship with the Rohan, a human race.

 

Meanwhile, the evil Saruman under the power of Lord Sauron and his assistant create a grand Uruk-hai army that's focused on the destruction of Man and Middle-earth.

 

 

 

5. La La Land (2016)

 

 

Headlined by Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, and Rosemarie DeWitt, La La Land has got to be one of the finest comedy-drama features to have been released in 2016. This visually stunning piece of cinema is one of the best works of cinematographer Linus Sandgren to date.

 

Helmed by Damien Chazelle, La La Land opened in the cinemas to universal acclaim and, subsequently, went on to become one of the better-rated titles on IMDb. Add to that the fact that it won Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

 

Mia, who wants to become a famous Hollywood actress, and Sebastian "Seb" who wants to achieve his dream of becoming a famous jazz pianist. Both face difficulties in their respective lives and careers and work hard to pursue their dreams.

 

Meanwhile, to pursue their dreams, the real test of their love is also happening. So, in the end, will they get each other? Or their dreams?

 

 

 

6. The Dark Knight (2008)

 

 

Starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, and Aaron Eckhart, The Dark Knight has got to be one of the best action-crime movies that came out in 2008.

 

The Dark Knight a visually stunning movie is one of the best cinematographical works of Wally Pfister to date. The Dark Knight is one of the best-rated movies by users on IMDb, and it was acclaimed universally by critics.

 

Lieutenant James Gordon and Gotham's new district attorney Harvey Dent choose to successfully round up all the criminals that plague Gotham City till an evil and devious supervillain named 'The Joker' appears, creating a new wave of disorder and anarchy.

 

Batman with help from Gordon and Dent, must not just foil The Joker's plans but also blur the line between hero and vigilante. There's a lot on the line and Batman's set to win some and lose some; which will it be?

 

 

 

7. Amour (2012)

 

 

Michael Haneke’s screenplay in Amour is so amusing and engaging that it seems to come along once in a blue moon. Needless to say, this drama feature is one that most fans of the genre must include in their watchlist.

 

Anne and her husband Georges are retired piano teachers whose life changes when Anne suffers a stroke, and a botched surgery leaves her with a paralysed right side. A second stroke leaves her demented and with incoherent speech, leaving Georges to look after her in totality.

 

With Anne refusing to go into care, taking care of her every need takes a toll on Georges, who decides to a tragic and heartbreaking step.

 

 

 

8. The Social Network (2010)

 

 

The Social Network is one of the most acclaimed biography-drama features which is certainly worth giving a try.

 

Written for the screen by Aaron Sorkin and starring Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, and Justin Timberlake in significant roles, the motion picture received favourable reviews from film critics. It managed a score of 7.8 from users on IMDb.

 

After being dumped by his girlfriend, Harvard University sophomore Mark Zuckerberg assembles a campus website that lets site visitors rate the attractiveness of female students. The site's popularity leads Zuckerberg to create Facebook and approach his friend Eduardo Saverin to invest in its concept.

 

However, Facebook's success and Napster co-founder Sean Parker's billion-dollar vision of the company leads Mark to oust Saverin from the business, who vows to sue him for this.

 

 

 

9. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

 

 

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a critically acclaimed movie that has earned its place among the best films of its time.

 

With a talented director like Ang Lee at the helm and a stellar cast that includes Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, and Ziyi Zhang, the movie has received rave reviews from both fans and critics alike.

 

Renowned Wudang swordsman of the Qing dynasty, Li Mu Bai decides to retire and give up his legendary four-hundred-year-old Green Destiny sword and entrusts female warrior Yu Shu Lien to deliver it to their benefactor Sir Te.

 

The sword gets stolen from Sir Te's estate by a masked thief, and Shu Lien is able to trace the theft to Governor Yu's compound, where Jade Fox, the one responsible for killing Mu Bai's teacher has been living for years.

 

 

 

10. Dunkirk (2017)

 

 

Dunkirk is your trademark action-drama feature that has been helmed for the screen by Christopher Nolan. It banks heavily on its striking visuals with the aim to appeal to its target audience.

 

Needless to mention, critics acknowledged the stunning visual effects of the tent-pole project. The Christopher Nolan directorial venture received Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and AACTA International Awards.

 

Based on actual wartime events, this story portrays the surprises and suffering experienced by Allied soldiers from Belgium, France, and Britain at Dunkirk during WWII. The German Army has them surrounded at the shoreline and, if an evacuation doesn't somehow take place, every soldier on that beach will perish.

 

The year is 1940 and more than 400,000 Allied troops find themselves cornered in the French port town of Dunkirk. With only the sea offering them a means of escape across the English Channel, Britain sends civilian as well as Naval forces to help with the urgent evacuation as the Germans unrelentingly press their advantage.

 

 

 

11. Forrest Gump (1994)

 

 

If you're looking forward to watching a movie to take your mind off of everything, look no further than Forrest Gump. Robert Zemeckis joined hands with Eric Roth ( Screenplay), Don Burgess (Cinematographer), and lead actors Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and Gary Sinise to assist him in executing the well-received drama.

 

Forrest Gump was one of the better drama-romance movies to have hit the screens in 1994. It managed to garner a score of 8.8 on IMDb and earned around $678,226,465 at the box office.

 

A humble and well-intentioned Alabama man with an IQ of 75, Forrest Gump grows up oblivious to how people think of him. He trusts two individuals in his life, childhood sweetheart Jenny Curran and his own mother Mrs Gump.

 

Forrest lives at a time when the Vietnam War and Watergate Scandal are making headlines. Before long, he joins the war effort, makes friends like soldiers like Dan and Bubba, and goes on to win medals.

 

He doesn't stop there. Forrest gradually becomes an inspiration to the nation and grows famous as a result. His past romantic failure with Jenny is always on his mind, though. Inspired by his mother's wisdom, Forrest goes on to become one of the most motivational people in America, regardless of his personal shortcomings.

 

 

 

12. The Father (2020)

 

 

Directed by Florian Zeller and featuring an ensemble cast of talented actors such as Anthony Hopkins, Olivia Colman, and Mark Gatiss, The Father is a movie that has won the hearts of both fans and critics.

 

The film's excellent performances, along with the masterful direction, make it a must-watch for any movie lover.

 

Anthony, a frail octogenarian suffering from bouts of dementia, refuses the assistance of a caregiver and feels left out when his daughter Anne announces her decision to move to Paris.

 

Confused, upset and heartbroken, Anthony's consistent battle with his failing mind makes him blur the line between past, present and future. As he tries to come to terms with changing circumstances, his mind forces him to doubt not just his loved ones but his mind and also the fabrics of reality he has held dear for so long.

 

 

 

13. The King's Speech (2010)

 

 

The King's Speech is an exceptional movie that managed to win over both critics and audiences alike. With Tom Hooper at the helm, the film showcases the talents of Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter, who delivered outstanding performances throughout.

 

Upon its release in 2010, it went on to earn a staggering $427,374,317 at the box office, cementing its position as one of the most successful movies of all time.

 

Prince Albert, Duke of York, has a speech impediment and struggles to overcome it. Elizabeth suggests he meet speech defects therapist Lionel Logue, and despite resistance begins to make good progress.

 

When King Edward VIII abdicates the throne and is forced to assume the throne as King George VI and make a speech after Britain declares war on Germany, Logue's unconventional technique helps him address a radio speech to the world.

 

 

 

14. The Artist (2011)

 

 

The Artist is a true masterpiece of comedy-drama movies. The incredible acting performances of Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, and John Goodman will leave you spellbound.

 

Directed by Michel Hazanavicius and written by Michel Hazanavicius, this film is an outstanding work of art. Released in 2011, it received critical acclaim and praise from fans, becoming a cult classic.

 

Silent film star George Valentin poses for pictures outside the premiere of his latest film when young Peppy Miller bumps into him. Valentin decides to show off with Peppy and poses for the cameras.

 

Peppy finds herself on Variety's front page with a 'Who's that Girl?' headline and decides to capitalise on it by auditioning as a dancer, leading Valentin to insist on a part for her in Kinograph Studios' production.

 

However, while Peppy slowly begins to rise in the industry, the announcement of the end of silent films rings doom for Valentin.

 

 

 

15. Million Dollar Baby (2004)

 

 

Looking for a movie that's both commercially successful and critically acclaimed? Look no further than Million Dollar Baby. Directed by Clint Eastwood, and featuring a talented cast including Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood, and Morgan Freeman, the film was released in 2004 to widespread critical acclaim.

 

It also managed to gross an impressive $216,763,646 at the box office, making it one of the most successful movies of its time.

 

Margaret 'Maggie' Fitzgerald is a waitress and aspiring boxer who shows up at a rundown LA gym owned and operated by fussy Irish-American trainer Frankie Dunn, asking him to train her.

 

He refuses by saying that he doesn't train girls and it's a little late for her to start her boxing career now. Frankie's close friend and employee Eddie 'Scrap-Iron' Dupris, convinces him to help Maggie and he reluctantly agrees, especially after his prized prospect 'Big Willie' Little sings elsewhere, getting frustrated with Frankie's consistent rejections for championship bouts.

 

As Maggie fights her way up the amateur boxing division both she and Frankie find some purpose in life again.

 

 

 

16. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)

 

 

It's not every day that a movie as captivating as Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 comes along. This critically acclaimed film, produced by David Barron, Debbi Bossi, Roy Button, David Heyman, Tim Lewis, J.K. Rowling, John Trehy, and Lionel Wigram and brought to life by David Yates, has captured the hearts of audiences all around the world.

 

With its stellar cast, led by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, and its impressive production values, it's no wonder that this movie has become a cultural phenomenon.

 

Harry Potter and his friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger embark on a quest to discover the remaining three Horcruxes but are discovered by Voldemort, who becomes furious at their attempt. Escaping back to Hogwarts, the three, along with their professors and friends, raise an army to prepare for a fight against Voldemort's Death Eaters army.

 

While several of their mates and professors perish, Harry must now make the ultimate sacrifice and put an end to Voldemort's menace and save Hogwarts from his wrath once and for all.

 

 

 

17. Spartacus (1960)

 

 

Spartacus thrives on its eye-pleasing visuals courtesy of cinematographer Russell Metty's efforts, who seems to have done his best to bring the motion picture and its vivid locations to life on celluloid.

 

This adventure-biography movie, released in 1960, stars Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, and Jean Simmons in significant roles.

 

Rebellious Thracian slave Spartacus gets purchased by Lentulus Batiatus, who owns a school for gladiators. The gladiators are asked to fight to the death for the entertainment of crooked Roman Senator Marcus Licinius Crassus.

 

When Spartacus learns that Varinia, the female slave he loves has been sold to Crassus, he decides to an uprising that'll ensure none has to be sold or made to do things against their will.

 

As he revolts along with several other gladiators, the philosophical differences between the two Senators; the evil Crassus and the populist Gracchus, come to the fore.

 

 

 

18. The Fugitive (1993)

 

 

The Fugitive is not your typical action-crime movie; we firmly believe that it's one of the best in the genre. This Andrew Davis directorial venture thrives on a cast and crew of accomplished performers, who come together to deliver a motion picture that exceeds everyone's expectations.

 

Some notable crew members involve Jeb Stuart, and David Twohy (screenwriter), and Michael Chapman (cinematographer).

 

The Fugitive bettered several credits in the genre and earned praises from fans and critics alike. Additionally, it went on to win various accolades, including Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards.

 

Vascular surgeon Dr Richard Kimble returns home to find his wife fatally injured by a man with a prosthetic arm. The lack of evidence of forced entry and a lucrative insurance policy leads the cops to arrest Kimble, leading him to get convicted of first-degree murder and receive a death sentence.

 

While being transported by bus, Kimble along with several other death row convicts manage to escape, leading him to take up an individual investigation to find who was responsible for killing his wife.

 

 

 

19. The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

 

 

The Bourne Ultimatum is a movie that has something for everyone. Directed by Paul Greengrass, and featuring an exceptional cast led by Matt Damon, Edgar Ramírez, and Joan Allen, the film was released in 2007 to universal acclaim.

 

It went on to gross an impressive $444,100,035 at the box office, cementing its place as one of the most successful movies of its time.

 

As Bourne is using his wits to piece together his past, a reporter, Simon, makes a discovery about Operation Blackbriar, a program introduced after Treadstone. With people on his tail to finish him off, Bourne stumbles upon people related to his past and forges friendships with some while uncovering bigger issues.

 

The news articles by Simon stir deep secrets giving more answers to Bourne's questions. Bourne stands on the edge in close-call combat, unsure whether he'll make it.

 

 

 

20. Inception (2010)

 

 

When it comes to popular movies, Inception is at the top of the list. With a jaw-dropping 8.8 rating on IMDb, this movie has captivated audiences around the globe.

 

The talented cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Elliot Page, gives outstanding performances, while the direction of Christopher Nolan makes every scene unforgettable. If you haven't seen this movie yet, now is the time to do so!

 

Dominic Cobb, a fugitive and a skilled spy, has a different way of pursuing his trade; instead of breaking into houses, he gains access to people's minds through their dreams.

 

Being a fugitive, he also misses his children, so when a person comes forward and asks him not to wire information but to implant a complex process called 'inception' in the mind of a CEO in exchange for his return to his children, Cobb hesitantly agrees.

 

 

 

21. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

 

 

Headlined by Christian Bale, Tom Hardy, and Anne Hathaway, The Dark Knight Rises is an action-drama that hit the screens in 2012.

 

Christopher Nolan brought the story to life with the help of competent crew members such as Jonathan Nolan, and Christopher Nolan (screenplay), Wally Pfister (cinematography), and many others.

 

Eight years after the death of District Attorney Harvey Dent and Rachel Dawes, Bruce Wayne has become a recluse and Gotham City is free of crimes. However, there's a new criminal lurking; Bane and he's come with an agenda of revealing who Harvey Dent really was and of wiping off Bruce Wayne, once and for all.

 

He takes over the city by force and that pushes Batman out of his hibernation to save the city that needs him, once again. As Bane attempts to do justice to Ra's Al Ghul's dream of destroying Gotham, Batman will have to find both old and new allies to put an end to this menace; once and for all.

 

 

 

22. Star Trek (2009)

 

 

Featuring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, and Simon Pegg in the lead, Star Trek is an action-adventure movie that was released in 2009. It comprises a talented team of crew members J.J. Abrams (director), Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman, and Gene Roddenberry (screenplay), Dan Mindel (cinematography), and others.

 

The motion picture received a score of 7.9 on IMDb, while it received 82 out of 100 on Metacritic.

 

Seventeen years after George Kirk, a spaceship, Kelvin's first officer sacrifices himself to keep his wife and his soon-to-be child safe; his son James has become a smart individual. He enlists in Starfleet academy when one day they receive signals from Vulcan planet, which James feels is a trap.

 

Nonetheless, while he is on the space expedition, they are attacked by Narada, a Romulan ship trying to gain excess to the Earth's atmosphere, which triggers an uncovering of the past.

 

 

 

23. Knives Out (2019)

 

 

Knives Out is one of the most acclaimed comedy-crime features which is certainly worth giving a try.

 

Written for the screen by Rian Johnson and starring Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas in significant roles, the motion picture received favourable reviews from film critics. It managed a score of 7.9 from users on IMDb.

 

A day after celebrating his 85th birthday with his family, wealthy mystery novelist Harlan Thrombey is found dead, with his throat slit. Lieutenant Elliot and Trooper Wagner think it's a suicide.

 

Private detective Benoit Blanc is hired anonymously to investigate, and he learns many of Harlan's relations with his family members were strained. As he digs deeper into the bonds of the dysfunctional family, he is faced with a web of lies and deceit that leads him to the root cause of Harlan's mysterious death.

 

 

 

24. Interstellar (2014)

 

 

Interstellar is an adventure-drama film that has been helmed for the screen by Christopher Nolan. It features actors Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, and Jessica Chastain in pivotal roles. The motion picture was released in 2014 with a 2 hours and 49 min runtime.

 

The future of the Earth is riddled with disasters, floods, famines, and droughts. The only way to ensure that mankind survives is through Interstellar travel. Cooper, an ex-science engineer cum pilot who’s tied to his farming lands with his children Murph and Tom, is asked to go on a perilous mission with a few other scientists and enter a wormhole.

 

Cooper is chosen for this mission for his scientific knowledge and ability to fly an aircraft, unlike other crew members. As time is running out and the Earth continues to decay, Cooper has to make one of the hardest decisions of his life; choosing to save humanity by finding an alternative habitable planet or the possibility of never seeing his children again.

 

What will Cooper do?

 

 

 

25. Arrival (2016)

 

 

Arrival, which hit the screens in 2016, has cemented its place as a pioneering visual effects-driven feature.

 

Its immersive environment helped it in providing an all-inclusive cinematic experience; all while elevating its other technical aspects to a certain degree as well. Noted for its spectacular visual effects, the motion picture went on to win Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA.

 

In the United States, Linguist Louise Banks is recruited along with physicist Ian Donnelly to study twelve extraterrestrial spacecraft that hover over various locations around the Earth. Banks and Donnelly make contact with two seven-limbed aliens and attempt to research the complex written language of the aliens, consisting of palindromic phrases.

 

Matters begin to get complicated when they end up mistaking certain symbols and words.

 

 

 

26. Princess Mononoke (1997)

 

 

Princess Mononoke is an animation-action which has been helmed for the screen by Hayao Miyazaki.

 

Toplined by actors such as Yôji Matsuda, Yuriko Ishida, and Yûko Tanaka (main characters), the film was released in 1997 with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 min.

 

An Emishi village in Muromachi Japan is attacked by a hideous demon. The last Emishi prince Ashitaka kills it before it manages to reach the village but it ends up grasping his arm and curses him before its death.

 

While the curse gives Ashitaka superhuman strength, it causes him immense pain and will eventually kill him. As the villagers discover the demon was a boar god, Ashitaka embarks on a journey to the western lands from where the demon came, to find a cure.

 

 

 

27. Casino Royale (2006)

 

 

Helmed for the screen by Martin Campbell, Casino Royale is an action-adventure that hit the screens in 2006.

 

Its crew members include Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, and Paul Haggis (screenplay), Phil Meheux (cinematography), and Lindy Hemming (costume), among others. The full-length feature was able to amass over $616,504,662 at the box office and received BAFTA Awards, Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA, and Art Directors Guild.

 

James Bond's first mission as an official '00' agent sees him going up against a banker known for his connections to world terrorists. Le Chiffre is in Montenegro involved in high-stakes poker games.

 

He has lost money and is aiming to win it back for his own continued safety. MI6 boss "M" sends Bond to work with Vesper Lynd, Felix Leiter, and Rene Mathis to keep Le Chiffre on the losing side.

 

This seems to be the only way they can successfully sever the man's terrorist ties.

 

 

 

28. Wings of Desire (1987)

 

 

Wings of Desire premiered in theatres in 1987. Directed by Wim Wenders, this movie features Bruno Ganz, Solveig Dommartin, and Otto Sander in the lead. If you have a particular liking for drama-fantasy movies, then you can try this title.

 

Wings of Desire received a score of 8 on IMDb and 79 on Metacritic.

 

Two angels, Damiel and Cassiel watch the city of Berlin and its inhabitants after it has been divided by the Berlin Wall. They've always existed as angels and resided in Berlin long before it was a city or before there were any humans.

 

They're pure observers only visible to children and are incapable of interacting with the physical world. However, Damien begins to fall in love and wishes to let go of his immortality to experience life as a mortal for the first time.

 

 

 

29. Sing Street (2016)

 

 

Helmed for the screen by John Carney, Sing Street is a comedy-drama that hit the screens in 2016.

 

Its crew members include John Carney (screenplay), Yaron Orbach (cinematography), and Tiziana Corvisieri (costume), among others. The full-length feature was able to amass over $13,624,522 at the box office and received Awards Circuit Community Awards (Honorable Mentions, Chlotrudis Awards, and Denver Film Critics Society.

 

In 1985 inner-city south Dublin, Robert Lawlor's struggling architecture practice and rocky marriage lead him to move his son Conor to a new school. But Conor's lack of black shoes leads to unexpected adventures when he meets an ally in budding entrepreneur Darren and recruits aspiring model Raphina for a music video.

 

As Conor's band develops their own style, his relationship with Raphina blossoms and he stands up to his bully, but family problems and heartbreak threaten to derail his dreams. With a chance to play live and escape to London, Conor and Raphina set sail for a new life, leaving behind a cheering older brother and a world of possibilities.

 

 

 

30. Chungking Express (1994)

 

 

This Kar-Wai Wong directorial venture does its best to balance its cinematic elements in order to keep the viewers engrossed right until the very end.

 

Chungking Express received favourable reviews on Metacritic, and fans of comedy-crime may find it worthy of their time.

 

Taiwan-raised cop He Qiwu is dumped by his girlfriend, while a woman in a blonde wig tries to survive in the drug underworld after a smuggling operation goes wrong. Qiwu approaches the woman at a club but is left hanging as she goes off to sleep leaving him to watch movies.

 

Another police officer also is dealing with a breakup when a new staff member at a snack food store falls for him and decides to help cheer him up.

 

 

 

31. Iron Man (2008)

 

 

Released in 2008, Iron Man is credited with bringing well-deserved acclaim to Jon Favreau. His sharp and confident direction kept the viewers glued to their seats for about 2 hours and 6 min.

 

Needless to mention, the motion picture managed to rake in the moolah at the box office and ended up delighting its producers. Its total global gross stood at around $585,796,247 by the end of its theatrical run.

 

In the massive universe of Marvel and its widely-popular characters, one such is Ironman. The man behind the superhero, Tony Stark, is a billionaire, brilliant in making defence weapons for his country.

 

On one of his trips to war-torn Afghanistan and then captured by a terrorist gang, he chanced upon the development of an arc reactor to power his new and highly inventive armour suit.

 

The making of which leads to the opening up of a new world to him.

 

 

 

32. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

 

 

Catch Me If You Can is a biography-crime which has been helmed for the screen by Steven Spielberg.

 

Toplined by actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, and Christopher Walken (main characters), the film was released in 2002 with a runtime of 2 hours and 21 min.

 

Frank Jr. grew up watching his father's various colourful methods to con people. After his parents' divorce, he ran away from home and started his conning career imposing as several people in varied professions.

 

His treachery and wealth grew so big it alerted the FBI. An FBI agent, Carl, goes behind Frank Jr. to arrest him but would fall under his con as well. When relationships fail him, Frank Jr. gets an opportunity to clean his acts.

 

 

 

33. The Sea Inside (2004)

 

 

Looking for a movie to watch? The Sea Inside could be a good option. With a runtime of 2 hours and 6 min and released in 2004, it stars Javier Bardem, Belén Rueda, and Lola Dueñas and was directed by Alejandro Amenábar.

 

Ramón had a diving accident that left him paralysed from the neck down. He wishes to end his life but is unable to do so and does not want to implicate his family or friends, as according to Spanish law, they would be charged with murder or assisting a suicide.

 

Thus starts a 28-year-long battle to change the law to enable a dying man to end his life with assisted suicide.

 

 

 

34. Dune (2021)

 

 

Actors Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, and Zendaya have delivered stellar performances in Dune. Thanks to them, the feature film was able to receive various nominations and wins, including Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and AACTA International Awards.

 

Duke Leto is summoned by the Emperor to come and take over the stewardship of Arrakis, the only source of Spice, a sacred hallucinogen. Once there, the Duke's son Paul Atreides finds himself stuck between two worlds, while the monstrous Baron Vladimir begins to plot an act of revenge.

 

Plagued with visions of a dark future, can Paul fulfil what destiny has in store for him in Dune?

 

 

 

35. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

 

 

With a stunning performance by Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Benedict Cumberbatch and a talented crew led by director Jon Watts, Spider-Man: No Way Home is a film that has earned high praise from both fans and critics. Its impressive 8.3 rating on IMDb is a testament to its widespread popularity.

 

Peter Parker's whole life is turned upside-down when his arch-nemesis Mysterio reveals to the world his true identity. Desperately trying to keep his identity a secret, he turns to Doctor Strange for help.

 

However, Doctor Strange's spell goes haywire, and instead of protecting his identity from the world, he has five new enemies; Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, Sandman, the Lizard and Electro, with whom he must deal and also understand what it truly means to be Spiderman.

 

 

 

36. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

 

 

Bankrolled by Twentieth Century Fox, Edward Scissorhands is a drama-fantasy starring Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, and Dianne Wiest in prominent roles.

 

Helmed by Tim Burton, the motion picture became a box-office success as it amassed $56,362,352 in the United States of America and Canada. Its worldwide total was $86,024,005 against a production budget of $20,000,000.

 

In a hilltop castle resides an enigmatic inventor's purportedly greatest creation: an artificially crafted man named Edward. But the inventor died before he could complete Edward's hands, leaving him with metal scissor placeholders instead.

 

Edward has been living alone, unable to understand his place or purpose in the world. Until kind Peg discovers him and adopts him. Though everyone in the community and her family gradually learns to accept Edward, his scissor hands end up earning him a dark reputation.

 

 

 

37. Warrior (2011)

 

 

Bankrolled by Lionsgate and helmed by Gavin O'Connor, Warrior is an action-drama that hit the screens in 2011.

 

A broken family and an epic sports fight define the lives of two brothers. They are individually gearing up to win in a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) battle, known for its high-stakes nature and brutal outcomes.

 

Tommy Riordan is a former Marine with a dark past. He returns home to Pittsburgh and gets his recovering alcoholic father and former coach to train him for the upcoming MMA tournament.

 

The winnings are apparently the biggest in the sport's history and Tommy is not willing to let the opportunity slide. Brendan, his brother, is a former MMA fighter who is low on finances and luck.

 

He makes a living as a public school teacher. The MMA tourney's prize grants him a chance at long last to do good by his family. Bad memories have estranged Brendan from his father and brother.

 

Tensions rise as both brothers make their way up in the MMA ranks and seem set to face each other in the ring.

 

 

 

38. Batman Begins (2005)

 

 

When it comes to popular movies, Batman Begins is at the top of the list. With a jaw-dropping 8.2 rating on IMDb, this movie has captivated audiences around the globe.

 

The talented cast, including Christian Bale, Michael Caine, and Ken Watanabe, gives outstanding performances, while the direction of Christopher Nolan makes every scene unforgettable. If you haven't seen this movie yet, now is the time to do so!

 

Young Bruce Wayne is witness to the killing of his parents at the hands of mugger Joe Chill and is raised by family butler Alfred Pennyworth. Seeking revenge, Bruce travels the world for years, training in combat and immersing himself in the criminal underworld, training in the League of Shadows led by Ra's al Ghul.

 

Soon he discovers that the league intends on destroying Gotham City he discards them and returns to Gotham in the garb of a billionaire playboy only to rid the city of crime, giving birth to the vigilante - Batman.

 

 

 

39. CODA (2021)

 

 

Sian Heder writes comedy-drama flicks in which the characters appear to be quite real and relatable. One such motion picture is CODA.

 

Directed by Sian Heder, it stars Emilia Jones, Marlee Matlin, and Troy Kotsur in the lead and opened to favourable reviews at the ticket windows.

 

Ruby Rossi is a child born to deaf adults (CODA – Child of Deaf Adults) and is the only person who has the ability to hear. She aids in her family's fishing business and also helps with being their sign language interpreter.

 

She's also a gifted singer and has applied to Berklee College of Music. Being the main link to connect her family with the world around her, what happens when her passion comes at the cost of a nagging fear of abandoning her family that needs her?

 

 

 

40. Cast Away (2000)

 

 

Featuring Tom Hanks, Helen Hunt, and Paul Sanchez in the lead, Cast Away is an adventure-drama movie that was released in 2000. It comprises a talented team of crew members Robert Zemeckis (director), William Broyles Jr. (screenplay), Don Burgess (cinematography), and others.

 

The motion picture received a score of 7.8 on IMDb, while it received 73 out of 100 on Metacritic.

 

Chuck works as a systems analyst and frequently travels worldwide to solve performance issues at depots. During one of the Christmas dinners, he is asked to resolve a problem. Unfortunately, the plane he is on gets caught up in a storm, though he survives the crash.

 

After he wakes up, Chuck finds himself on a barren island with several onboard packages which help him survive. Living away from civilization packs many lessons for him.

 

 

 

41. Green Book (2018)

 

 

Nick Vallelonga, Brian Hayes Currie, and Peter Farrelly writes biography-comedy flicks in which the characters appear to be quite real and relatable. One such motion picture is Green Book.

 

Directed by Peter Farrelly, it stars Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali, and Linda Cardellini in the lead and opened to favourable reviews at the ticket windows.

 

Italian-American bouncer Tony Lip gets invited to an interview with Dr Don Shirley, an African-American pianist requiring a driver for his eight-week concert tour through the Midwest and Deep South.

 

Don hires Tony, and they embark on plans to return to New York City on Christmas Eve. However, Don and Tony keep clashing as Don is displeased by Tony's habits, and the latter feels uncomfortable when asked to act with more refinement.

 

 

 

42. The Prestige (2006)

 

 

With a stunning performance by Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, and Scarlett Johansson and a talented crew led by director Christopher Nolan, The Prestige is a film that has earned high praise from both fans and critics. Its impressive 8.5 rating on IMDb is a testament to its widespread popularity.

 

The Prestige follows two young magicians learning together the nuances of magic. When a tragedy hits one of them, it results in their fallout. The tussle to prove oneself better than the other becomes a long-term obsession turning fierce every time their paths are crossed.

 

The story is spanned across years of their lives, registering various highs and lows in careers and relationships. Will they ever learn to bury their differences, or can there only be one winner?

 

 

 

43. The Imitation Game (2014)

 

 

This acclaimed motion picture thrives on Graham Moore, and Andrew Hodges's tight and textured screenplay, which has been brought to life on the big screen by Morten Tyldum. Therefore, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to claim that The Imitation Game ends up providing lessons in screenwriting.

 

It's not surprising then that Morten Tyldum's unique execution of the screenplay helped the movie open to favourable reviews. Furthermore, it went on to earn well-deserved awards such as Academy Awards, USA, AFI Awards, USA, and Asheville Cinema Festival.

 

When Britain declares war on Germany, Alan Turing arrives at Bletchley Park and becomes part of a cryptography team. He designs a machine named Christopher that can decipher German Enigma messages and takes in young Joan Clarke to be a part of his team.

 

He recalibrates the machine to decode the words he knows to exist in certain notes, leading to quick decoding of messages. Despite becoming the unsung hero of Britain during World War, his tumultuous personal life evades him the honour he truly deserves.

 

 

 

44. Walk the Line (2005)

 

 

The success of Walk the Line at the box office is a testament to its brilliance. With a staggering $186,797,986 gross, this movie is a must-see for all movie lovers.

 

Directed by James Mangold and featuring an incredible cast led by Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, and Ginnifer Goodwin, it is no surprise that it was so well-received by audiences.

 

Johnny Cash was raised in Arkansas with his brother and abusive father and mother. He enlists in the U. S. Airforce and gets stationed in West Germany. He decides to purchase a guitar and finds comfort in writing songs.

 

After being discharged, he gets married and opts for the job of a door-to-door salesman to support his family, but with little success. He decides to organise a band to play gospel music.

 

As this marks the beginning of his growing fame, Johnny's personal life sees a whirlwind of trouble through cheating, romance and alcohol and drug abuse.

 

 

 

45. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

 

 

Edge of Tomorrow is an action-adventure film that has been helmed for the screen by Doug Liman. It features actors Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, and Bill Paxton in pivotal roles. The motion picture was released in 2014 with a 1 hour and 53 min runtime.

 

An alien attack on Earth sees them go from one relentless assault to the other. The UDF decides to enlist the services of Maj. William Cage, but he gets killed within minutes.

 

However, he now finds himself thrown into a time loop that forces him to relive the brutal combat. With each face-off, he can engage better with the enemy using increased skill, along with Sergeant Rita Vrataski.

 

As they take on the aliens, each repeated assault helps them inch closer to defeating the adversary.

 

 

 

46. Jurassic Park (1993)

 

 

It's not every day that a movie as captivating as Jurassic Park comes along. This critically acclaimed film, produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Gerald R. Molen, Lata Ryan, and Colin Wilson and brought to life by Steven Spielberg, has captured the hearts of audiences all around the world.

 

With its stellar cast, led by Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum, and its impressive production values, it's no wonder that this movie has become a cultural phenomenon.

 

Growth in science and technology has enabled John Hammond to build a theme park on an island with genetically engineered dinosaurs. Hammond invites palaeontologist Dr Alan Grant, his assistant, Hammond's lawyer and a chaotician to visit Jurassic Park.

 

While they're left shocked and sceptical about the dinosaurs. When there's a sudden power outage causing the dinosaurs to run amok, exiting the island and staying alive becomes a challenge.

 

 

 

47. The Batman (2022)

 

 

Released in 2022, The Batman is credited with bringing well-deserved acclaim to Matt Reeves. His sharp and confident direction kept the viewers glued to their seats for about 2 hours and 56 min.

 

Needless to mention, the motion picture managed to rake in the moolah at the box office and ended up delighting its producers. Its total global gross stood at around $770,836,163 by the end of its theatrical run.

 

Two years into protecting and trying to rid Gotham City of its criminals, masked vigilante Batman has a maniac killer called 'The Riddler' to deal with. The villain is obsessed with exposing the corrupt system of the city by ridding it of all its key political figures.

 

Together with key allies, Bruce will have to track down the killer and bring him to justice. But, what happens when investigating the killer leads him to question his father's legacy in the corruption and define his position as Batman in the city.

 

 

 

48. Lion (2016)

 

 

This acclaimed motion picture thrives on Luke Davies's tight and textured screenplay, which has been brought to life on the big screen by Garth Davis. Therefore, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to claim that Lion ends up providing lessons in screenwriting.

 

It's not surprising then that Garth Davis's unique execution of the screenplay helped the movie open to favourable reviews. Furthermore, it went on to earn well-deserved awards such as BAFTA Awards, AACTA International Awards, and American Society of Cinematographers, USA.

 

An Australian couple has adopted a five-year-old Indian boy, Saroo, who drifted away from his home and travelled hundreds of kilometres alone. After 25 years, he sets out to find his lost family.

 

He embarks on an unforgettable journey using the help of Google Maps, making him remember all the childhood memories he once shared with his mother and siblings. Let's see how close he gets to his family on this journey.

 

 

 

49. Doctor Zhivago (1965)

 

 

Looking for a movie to watch? Doctor Zhivago could be a good option. With a runtime of 3 hours and 17 min and released in 1965, it stars Omar Sharif, Julie Christie, and Geraldine Chaplin and was directed by David Lean.

 

During World War I, Dr Yuri Zhivago is sent by the Bolsheviks to subvert the Imperial Russian Army and is drafted as their battlefield doctor. Pasha, Lara's unsatisfied husband goes missing in action and Lara enlists as a nurse to look for him and is taken in by Yuri.

 

They both fall in love, despite Yuri's loyalty to his wife Tonya, to whom he returns after the war. Years later when he comes across Lara again and sparks begin to fly, leaving him struggling to honour his fidelity to his wife and his growing reignited passion for Lara.

 

 

 

50. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

 

 

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has a screenplay that is widely considered to be iconic among movie critics and fans alike; primarily because of its tight structuring and inclusion of impressive and relatable characters.

 

Expectedly, Eric Roth's narrative and execution of the same helped him win Academy Awards, USA, BAFTA Awards, and Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA.

 

In 1918, a boy is born with the appearance of an elderly man. He is raised by the caretaker and cook of a nursing home after being abandoned there by his father.

 

Named Benjamin, he begins to blend with the elderly residents, despite having the mind of a child. As time goes by Benjamin Button finds love in Daisy, a girl his age. However, as time goes by and Daisy begins to grow older, Benjamin begins to grow younger, leading to consequences in an otherwise beautiful relationship.

 

 

 

51. The Bourne Identity (2002)

 

 

With a budget of $60,000,000, this blockbuster film raked in an impressive $214,034,224 at the box office. Directed by Doug Liman and featuring a star-studded cast including Franka Potente, Matt Damon, and Chris Cooper, this movie is a must-watch for all movie fans.

 

A man is rescued and tended to by Italian fishermen who found his body with two gunshots on his back. The healed man cannot trace his identity, seeming to have lost his memory, but finds a safe deposit number that takes him to Zurich.

 

Upon reaching the locker, he finds several loads of cash, the passport of several nationalists, and IDs. The man decides to go by Jason Bourne but now has assassinations on his back trying to kill him.

 

 

 

52. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

 

 

The Perks of Being a Wallflower has a screenplay that is widely considered to be iconic among movie critics and fans alike; primarily because of its tight structuring and inclusion of impressive and relatable characters.

 

Expectedly, Stephen Chbosky's narrative and execution of the same helped him win Boston Society of Film Critics Awards, Chlotrudis Awards, and Film Independent Spirit Awards.

 

Charlie is starting freshman year at high school and is quite nervous on his first day. His shy demeanour means difficulty in socialising, while his English teacher, Mr Anderson, is the only one he shares some connection.

 

Things change for him when Charlie meets two seniors, Sam and Patrick. He can be himself before them and, in turn, learn about their troubles. Soon Charlie's safety people start branching out on their way, making Charlie blossom as well.

 

 

 

53. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

 

 

Actors Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, and Jaden Smith have delivered stellar performances in The Pursuit of Happyness. Thanks to them, the feature film was able to receive various nominations and wins, including ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards, Capri, Hollywood, and Image Awards (NAACP).

 

A salesman in San Francisco, Chris Gardner, has his financial condition in shambles. With no money to pay rent, an inability to pay for income tax returns, and overflowing parking tickets, Chris shares an equally bad relationship with his wife.

 

Chris bags an unpaid internship as a stockbroker while hustling to meet potential clients, win them over, and study to get his broker license; he works simultaneously to keep a roof over himself and his son's head.

 

 

 

54. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

 

 

Bankrolled by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and helmed by Peter Jackson, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is an adventure-fantasy that hit the screens in 2013.

 

Gandalf, Bilbo Baggins and King Thorin embark on a perilous journey to Lonely Mountain to steal the prized Arkenstone from Smaug, the dragon and then go on to join the dwarfs.

 

However, their journey ahead is riddled with dangerous spiders, giant Orcs and a dangerous creature that lurks in Erebor to protect its prized treasure.

 

 

 

55. Big Fish (2003)

 

 

Headlined by Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, and Billy Crudup, Big Fish is an adventure-drama that hit the screens in 2003.

 

Tim Burton brought the story to life with the help of competent crew members such as John August (screenplay), Philippe Rousselot (cinematography), and many others.

 

Will Bloom shares a complicated relationship with his father, Edward. Like any son, he loves him but finds it hard to accept every larger-than-life past instance Edward shares with his son.

 

From fighting in the war with Koreans and working in a circus to stalking a woman and falling in love with her, Edward's past was mighty colourful. After discovering his father is affected by cancer, Will decides to test the accuracy of Edward's stories.

 

 

 

56. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

 

 

Bankrolled by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is an adventure-fantasy starring Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, and Richard Armitage in prominent roles.

 

Helmed by Peter Jackson, the motion picture became a box-office success as it amassed $303,030,651 in the United States of America and Canada. Its worldwide total was $1,017,030,651 against a production budget of $180,000,000.

 

Timid hobbit Bilbo Baggins embarks on an adventurous and dangerous journey to reclaim the kingdom of the dwarfs as well as the gold that lies within it from the evil dragon Smaug as well as find a very important jewel, with the help from twelve spirited dwarfs and a wise old wizard named Gandalf the Grey.

 

On the way, he also gains possession of Gollum's precious ring, which has its fate tied with that of Middle-earth, much beyond the understanding or knowledge of Bilbo himself.

 

 

 

57. The Notebook (2004)

 

 

With a budget of $29,000,000, this blockbuster film raked in an impressive $118,230,644 at the box office. Directed by Nick Cassavetes and featuring a star-studded cast including Gena Rowlands, James Garner, and Rachel McAdams, this movie is a must-watch for all movie fans.

 

Duke, a kind octogenarian religiously reads a romantic story from his notebook to Ms Hamilton, a fellow inmate who's been struck by Alzheimer's. The story is always the same; about a young couple from different social standings, falling in love only to get separated by situations and those around them.

 

With fate bringing them face-to-face again years later; how will life unfold for them now?

 

 

 

58. Taken (2008)

 

 

The success of Taken at the box office is a testament to its brilliance. With a staggering $226,837,760 gross, this movie is a must-see for all movie lovers.

 

Directed by Pierre Morel and featuring an incredible cast led by Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, and Famke Janssen, it is no surprise that it was so well-received by audiences.

 

Ex-Green Beret and ex-CIA Agent Bryan Mills jumps into action when his 17-year-old daughter, Kim, is abducted in Paris by an Albanian sex trafficking ring. With just 96 hours to find her before she's lost forever, Bryan uses all his skills to track down the kidnappers, including engaging in a high-speed chase, a gunfight, and even torture.

 

Will he be able to rescue his daughter before it's too late?

 

 

 

59. Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

 

 

Bohemian Rhapsody premiered in theatres in 2018. Directed by Bryan Singer, this movie features Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, and Gwilym Lee in the lead. If you have a particular liking for biography-drama movies, then you can try this title.

 

Bohemian Rhapsody received a score of 7.9 on IMDb and 49 on Metacritic.

 

The film Bohemian Rhapsody revolves around the life of Farrokh Bulsara and his journey of becoming Freddie Mercury, the formation of the band Queen and its meteoric rise to stardom, his defying all odds, defying stereotypes and shattering conventions to become one of the most loved bands in the world.