Film 101

Film 101 is In Reel Deep’s commitment to an in-depth re-examination of cinematic classics — old and new. The list was compiled using ratings and rankings from IMDB, American Film Institute and British Film Institute.

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'The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'

The capper to Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy trilogy set the tone for the next decade-plus of film.

'It's a Wonderful Life'

It's a Wonderful Life is the unlikeliest of Christmas classics, and easily one of the greatest.

'Sunset Boulevard'

Billy Wilder expertly blends Film Noir with a cautionary tale about the poisonous nature of fame and celebrity.

'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'

Spirit and institution clash, and in this kind of institution there can be only one victor.

'Seven Samurai'

Seven Samurai is brilliant on its own merits, and even moreso when considering its place in the cinematic canon.

'Star Wars'

Wrap your arms around the biggest film of all-time.

'Casablanca'

Both miraculous and universal, there is a reason Casablanca is so beloved.

'The Searchers'

One of John Ford's masterpieces remains compelling because of the subtle messages buried within.

'Schindler's List'

The power of Steven Spielberg's masterpiece feels more urgent than ever.

'The General'

Why The General, of all of Buster Keaton's films, after all of these years?

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

REAR WINDOW

LAWRENCE OF ARABIA

DR. STRANGELOVE

Double Indemnity

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