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The 10 Best Classic Films To Have On Your Radar
You can never go wrong with a classic film.
When it comes to cinematic classics, certain films stand the test of time and with good reason.
Whether it's the iconic elegance of Breakfast At Tiffany's or the sweeping drama that is Gone With The Wind, some films have the power to do more than just tell stories; they've defined eras in history. Inspiring fashion, fuelling societal conversations and, of course, offering escapism into a world that still feels relevant, despite being released decades ago.
For those looking to indulge in the nostalgia of a true classic film, we've curated a list of enduring beacons of Hollywood that continue to influence the way we think about love, identity, and the art of cinema itself.
Prepare to be captivated.
Best For A Romantic Comedy: Breakfast At Tiffany's (1961)
This romantic comedy follows Holly Golightly, a free-spirited socialite in New York City, as she navigates love, wealth, and self-discovery. Her lifestyle, alongside the charm of Audrey Hepburn's portrayal, makes this film a timeless classic set in the Upper East Side.
Cast: Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal, Mickey Rooney
Director: Blake Edwards
Best For A Gangster Film: The Godfather Franchise (1972-1990)
Regarded as one of the greatest and most famous gangster films in cinematographic history, The Godfather franchise is a must-watch.
The franchise sees Don Vito Corleone, head of an Italian mafia family, hand over the reins of his empire to his youngest son, Michael. However, the decision ultimately threatens the safety of those that he holds nearest and dearest.
Cast: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, John Cazale, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Sterling Hayden, Richard Conte, Talia Shire, Al Lettieri
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Best For A Historic Watch: Gone With The Wind (1940)
A sweeping tale of passion, resilience and historical upheaval, Gone With The Wind is set against the backdrop of the Civil War. The film's protagonist, Scarlett O'Hara, must fight to survive as the world that she knows begins to crumble.
Cast: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Hattie McDaniel, Thomas Mitchell, Barbara O'Neil, Evelyn Keyes, Ann Rutherford, Butterfly McQueen
Director: Victor Fleming
Best For A Moving Drama: The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Set in a bleak prison, the Shawshank Redemption delves into the story of two convicts who form an unlikely deep friendship inside the American prison system. Exploring themes of redemption, perseverance and human suffering, this film is regarded as one of the best ever films to have been created.
Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
Director: Frank Darabont
Best For A Horror Film: The Shining (1980)
This chilling psychological horror follows Jack Torrance, a struggling writer, who descends into utter madness while isolated at the unnerving Overlook Hotel with his wife and son. One of the most influential horror films of all time, Nicholson's performance will leave you wanting to sleep with the lights on.
Cast: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd, Scatman Crothers, Barry Nelson, Philip Stone, Joe Turkel, Anne Jackson, Tony Burton
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Best For A Coming-Of-Age Film: Stand By Me (1986)
A cinematic classic, Stand By Me, is one of Stephen King’s earliest box office hits. The film follows a group of four pre-teen boys during the summer before they start high school. The group hears of a missing teen in the woods and ventures out to find the body in the hopes of finding a sense of adventure and being heralded as heroes. As the boys embark on the journey, each child must confront the underlying problems in their respective lives as their camaraderie is put to the test.
Cast: Will Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell, Kiefer Sutherland
Director: Rob Reiner
Best For An Adventure Film: Lara Croft Tomb Raider Franchise (2001-2008)
Besides the fact that dressing up as Lara Croft for Halloween seemed like a rites-of-passage in the early Noughties, the film has since garnered the title of being a classic for reasons beyond its sartorial appeal. The action-adventure franchise sees Angeline Jolie play a strong female lead as a brave archaeologist on a mission to uncover ancient artefacts.
Cast: Angelina Jolie, Iain Glen, Robert Phillips, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Noah Taylor, Richard Johnson, Jon Voight, Julian Rh, Leslie Phillips, Chris Barrie, Daniel Craig
Director: Simon West
Best For A Musical/Fantasy: The Wizard Of Oz (1939)
An enduring classic, The Wizard Of Oz takes you to the magical land of Oz, where we see Judy Garland's award winning performance as Dorothy. With its striking themes of courage and friendship, it's no wonder that the re-imagined film adaptation of Wicked (which is inspired by this film), starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, is so highly anticipated.
Cast: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley, Billie Burke, Margaret Hamilton, Charley Grapewin, Pat Walshe
Director: Victor Fleming
Best For A Comedy: Happy Gilmore (1996)
This riotous comedy sees a failed hockey player turn into an unexpected golf star. Filled with slapstick humour and ridiculous antics from Adam Sandler and more, this cult classic never gets old.
Cast: Adam Sandler, Alan Covert, Julie Bowen, Dennis Dugan, Christopher Mcdonald, Frances Bay, Richard Kiel, Carl Weathers
Director: Dennis Dugan
Best For A Heart Warming Watch: Dead Poet's Society (1989)
Robin Williams stars as John Keating, a kind-hearted English teacher who aspires to change the lives of his pupils through teaching them poetry. Over time, the kids begin to see life in a different way as Keating develops their minds and passions as they learn more about the meaning of life. It's one of Williams' most moving performances – have your tissues at the ready.
Cast: Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke
Director: Peter Weir
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