Every Steven Spielberg Movie, Ranked

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The original publication date of this article is October 2015. On June 20, 2025, Jaws will mark its 50th anniversary. Just keep in mind not to spoil the news to the great white shark that it didn’t make it to the top spot on our list.

Due to his long-lasting mainstream appeal (and the numerous blockbuster directors whose careers he’s influenced), Steven Spielberg isn’t always given the recognition he deserves, being dismissed in certain circles as merely a “commercial” filmmaker lacking the artistic depth of a true artist. However, this is false. While he’s certainly had his share of flops, Spielberg has consistently pushed himself, exploring various genres and themes throughout his career. Here’s our list ranking all 34 of his feature films.

34.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Year: 2008
Runtime: 2h 2m

Following four decades of an illustrious and fulfilling profession, Spielberg elected to join the cast for another Indiana Jones sequel, surprising many given he had concluded the trilogy with the hero driving off into the sunset. What prompted this decision remains uncertain even to this day. The film, titled “Crystal Skull,” is often criticized as being Spielberg’s most lackluster and careless work; its action sequences appear perfunctory at best, and it includes numerous glaring errors such as Shia LaBeouf’s feeble portrayal of a rebellious character, Cate Blanchett’s over-the-top villain, the infamous fridge scene. It’s no wonder that since then, Spielberg has frequently expressed his regret.

33.
Hook

Year: 1991
Runtime: 2h 16m

In certain aspects, the movie “Hook” was a pioneer, as it tackled the concept of rebooting and reinventing established stories before it became a trend in Hollywood. However, this doesn’t make the film any less uncomfortable, especially considering its storyline about an adult Peter Pan (Robin Williams playing a wounded man-child) who has lost his true identity and transformed into a cold, uncaring lawyer. Dustin Hoffman’s portrayal of Captain Hook leans towards the flamboyant acting style seen in movies like “Dick Tracy”. Unfortunately, the film is excessively lengthy, stretching nearly 2 hours and 30 minutes. The repeated message about the importance of holding onto our inner child becomes tiresome. Just let us be.

32.
1941

Year: 1979
Runtime: 1h 58m

In a more casual and straightforward manner: Steven Spielberg’s comedic style leans more towards visual humor than dialogue, which is evident in this less successful attempt. The movie looks fantastic, but it lacks the pace and wit typical of a comedy, often feeling overly prolonged. It seems as though Spielberg aimed to create a comedy but also wanted to demonstrate his artistry, leading to an uneven balance between the two elements. In hindsight, he joked that the film should have been a musical, which might not have been such a bad idea after all.

31.
Always

Year: 1989
Runtime: 2h 3m

In a less thoughtful adaptation of the 1943 film “A Guy Named Joe“, titled “Always“, we encounter a melodramatic war film that seems to be lacking a genuine conflict. Instead of Spencer Tracy as a WWII aviator, Richard Dreyfuss portrays a fire-fighter pilot who meets an untimely end during a mission, only to be sent back by an angel to guide a new pilot on earth. The aerial sequences are undeniably thrilling, yet Steven Spielberg’s depiction is overly nostalgic and borderline saccharine – even for the optimistic Capra. After watching this movie, you might find yourself with a sweet taste in your mouth.

30.
The Sugarland Express

Year: 1974
Runtime: 1h 50m

Spielberg’s initial cinematic debut appears quite distinct from his usual style, at times to its advantage; it occasionally seems more akin to Madcap Malick, although such a resemblance might seem unlikely. Yet, there’s an underlying sense of inexperience in the young director: The film’s attempt to critique a culture fixated on celebrity feels outdated, given that the topic often satirizes itself nowadays. It’s not terrible, but it retains an intrigue similar to that of many great directors’ early stumbles.

29.
The BFG

Year: 2016
Runtime: 1h 57m

In the spirit of Roald Dahl’s storytelling, Spielberg appeared to be intentionally crafting a typical Spielberg film: A young girl (Ruby Barnhill) forms an unlikely friendship with a benevolent giant (Mark Rylance), exploring a mystical world and picking up valuable life lessons. However, The BFG falls short of capturing the magic — it often feels more like a potentially engaging movie rather than a genuine enchantment. The primary issue lies in the heaviness of the whimsy and fantasy elements; the essence of Dahl’s tale doesn’t resonate strongly. But another significant hurdle is that The BFG represents one of Spielberg’s rare instances where he seems to be laboring excessively to prove his affection for the material. A Spielberg film devoid of his emotional depth and authenticity falls short of greatness.

28.
The Adventures of Tintin

Year: 2011
Runtime: 1h 47m

In my perspective, embarking on the thrilling journey of “The Adventures of Tintin” marked Steven Spielberg’s initial foray into 3D motion-capture filmmaking during his later career. This movie, a stunning testament to technical prowess, is consistently brimming with visual splendor that keeps you captivated. Although it occasionally veers towards ostentatious display, the standout chase sequence, seamlessly executed in a single shot, is an exhilarating ride. Unfortunately, the charm of the characters and dialogue falls short compared to the technical marvels presented.

27.
The Lost World: Jurassic Park

Year: 1997
Runtime: 2h 9m

Although Spielberg’s approach appears to be more of a spectacle than a deep environmental message, and the plot may seem illogical at times, the thrilling “T-Rex attacks San Diego” sequence in the third act is a joy to watch. Jeff Goldblum, with his neurotic character, might not have been the ideal lead, but casting young Julianne Moore and a slimmer Vince Vaughn was a smart move.

26.
The Terminal

Year: 2004
Runtime: 2h 8m

This film, created during Steven Spielberg’s rush-and-shoot era, was uniquely made in a meticulously crafted replica of JFK Airport that might leave you yearning for the real terminal. Regrettably, Tom Hanks’s main character seems rather unremarkable, and the array of “quirky airport staff” who bond with him gradually lose their charm. Yet, it possesses a warm spirit that keeps you engaged despite these shortcomings.

25.
Ready Player One

Year: 2018
Runtime: 2h 20m

Redrafting Ernest Cline’s popular 2011 novel, “Ready Player One,” Spielberg delivers his grimmest, most flexible sci-fi action film since “Minority Report“. The narrative revolves around a compassionate nerd (Tye Sheridan) who embarks on a riddle-laden quest to acquire ownership of the extraordinary virtual-reality universe known as the OASIS. While the plot may not be exhilarating, Spielberg appears invigorated by exploring this imaginary world. The lengthy and intermittently imaginative “Ready Player One” could benefit from being a stronger critique of our IP-obsessed, pop-culture-centric era. (Characters converse in movie references instead of revealing their emotions, and they cling to fictional avatars rather than feeling comfortable in their own skin.) However, the prolonged journey into “The Shining” in “Ready Player One” is a film-lover’s paradise, tailor-made for a director who has significantly influenced and transformed our collective consciousness.

24.
The Color Purple

Year: 1985
Runtime: 2h 34m

Steven Spielberg’s initial foray into drama, based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, might seem like a sincere yet clumsy attempt at serious storytelling from a director renowned for action blockbusters. However, it is far from a flop; he successfully elicits powerful performances from stars such as Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and Oprah Winfrey. Despite some criticism for toning down the raw themes of Walker’s challenging book about a young black woman in the South (Goldberg) on her journey to self-awareness, Spielberg demonstrates an unusual compassion for his female characters that sets The Color Purple apart as a rare gem in his typically male-centric filmography.

23.
War Horse

Year: 2011
Runtime: 2h 26m

This film, often playfully ridiculed – particularly in an amusing Saturday Night Live skit – is somewhat corny and excessively sincere, but manages to hold its ground due to a dedicated British cast and Spielberg’s persistent myth-building. There are plenty of comical elements involving the horse, but challenge yourself not to be touched by the scene where he gets trapped in barbed wire, prompting both armies to pause their conflict to assist him.

22.
Catch Me If You Can

Year: 2002
Runtime: 2h 21m

In the opinion of some viewers, this film stands out for its captivating opening credit sequence, which features John Williams’ unique blend of jazz tones. However, director Steven Spielberg utilized this project to explore the theme of Frank Abagnale Jr., portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, a real-life con artist. This provided Spielberg with an opportunity to delve into his recurring interest in missing fathers, as depicted by Christopher Walken’s emotional and human portrayal. The movie’s 1960s backdrop hinted at the style seen later in ‘Mad Men’, while DiCaprio’s Abagnale Jr. character hinted at his future roles in ‘Shutter Island’ and ‘Inception’, where he played a man entangled in self-deception.

21.
Amistad

Year: 1997
Runtime: 2h 35m

Looking back, Amistad can be considered an early attempt at the powerful, conversational political drama that Spielberg would master with greater skill and assurance in Lincoln. This 19th-century courtroom drama certainly has a preachy quality, and it may seem puzzling why Spielberg chose Matthew McConaughey to play a lawyer advocating for a group of African slaves seeking their freedom. Nonetheless, it’s a deeply emotional film that can be quite touching: Despite the initial ridicule surrounding Djimon Hounsou’s “Give us freedom” scene, it remains impactful even today.

20.
Empire of the Sun

Year: 1987
Runtime: 2h 34m

A group of Steven Spielberg enthusiasts believe that this is his finest film, an opinion we find hard to fathom. However, this coming-of-age story – delving into the realities of growing up with privilege and its flaws – does have its compelling moments. Moreover, it showcases a remarkable performance from a 13-year-old Christian Bale, an actor who would continue to make his presence known in the future.

19.
Bridge of Spies

Year: 2015
Runtime: 2h 22m

In a follow-up to the film “Lincoln,” here’s another Spielberg production focusing on the intricate craft of negotiation. Set against the backdrop of the 1960 U2 spy-plane incident, “Bridge of Spies” features Tom Hanks as a resolute insurance salesman unwittingly recruited by the US government to defend a detained Russian spy, portrayed brilliantly by Mark Rylance. However, he’s instructed not to overexert himself; his role is merely to ensure that it appears as though the American judicial system afforded him a fair trial. Initially, the story unfolds as a historical courtroom drama reflecting contemporary sentiments of xenophobia, but it soon transforms into a vintage Cold War suspense saga where dialogue, rather than bullets, serves as the main ammunition.

“Bridge of Spies” embodies the essence of an Eastwood-style storytelling approach, with Hanks delivering a grizzled decency performance reminiscent of Jimmy Stewart’s style. The film also carries a touch of wit, owing to a script co-written by the Coen brothers. Unlike some of Spielberg’s more action-packed or emotionally charged films, “Bridge of Spies” might not receive the recognition it deserves within his body of work.

18.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

Year: 1989
Runtime: 2h 7m

Among the notable ideas for ’80s sequels, Indiana Jones: The Last Crusade stands alongside Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home’s time travel/humpback whale plot. This time, Indy is seen spending time in a friendly Odd Couple dynamic with his grizzled archaeologist father (Sean Connery, relishing the role), as he once again confronts Nazis. However, by this stage, the Indiana Jones series was starting to show signs of aging – neither the villains nor the action scenes were as impressive as in the first two films. Nevertheless, it remains the most heartwarming and humorous film in the series. It’s always a bit sad to see River Phoenix in the opening flashback and ponder the potential career he could have had.

17.
Duel

Year: 1971
Runtime: 1h 31m

One movie from the list stands out as Spielberg’s first significant break and remains intriguing and innovative to this day. The plot is surprisingly straightforward: A man (Dennis Weaver) encounters a trucker on the highway, and the rest of the film follows the trucker’s relentless pursuit and torment of the man. This work showcases Spielberg at his rawest and most intense, offering an unadulterated cinematic experience devoid of his usual sentimental excesses and avoidance of multiple endings. Watching it is akin to witnessing a 13-year-old Mozart: Although he may not have mastered all aspects of his talent, the sheer brilliance of his work will captivate you.

16.
A.I. Artificial Intelligence

Year: 2001
Runtime: 2h 20m

Among Steven Spielberg’s films, perhaps none has sparked as much debate as the one we know as A.I.. Initially conceived by Stanley Kubrick from a short story by Brian Aldiss, it was eventually passed on to Spielberg upon Kubrick’s demise. Released posthumously in relation to Kubrick, A.I. serves as Spielberg’s tribute or homage to his mentor. This science fiction narrative carries the cold, intellectual essence that characterized Kubrick’s greatest works. Haley Joel Osment delivers a stellar performance as the android yearning to be human, much like Pinocchio before him. Although the styles of these two filmmakers may not align perfectly, A.I. is an undeniably captivating, if somewhat inconsistent, endeavor from Spielberg.

15.
West Side Story

Year: 2021
Runtime: 2h 36m

In Spielberg’s remake of the timeless tale of the Jets and Sharks, Ariana DeBose shines brilliantly, especially during her rendition of “America” which leaves audiences spellbound. However, there are instances when the pace slows, often due to a rather static performance by Ansel Elgort as Tony, which is noticeable because of his wooden acting and lead shoes. Overall, the film boasts more high points than low ones, and it’s evident that Spielberg is thrilled to be diving into his first true musical project, as he moves with an added enthusiasm. The choice to not subtitle the Spanish scenes reflects the open-mindedness of the production, and there’s a small part of us that suspects this adaptation might be remembered most for that decision in 20 years.

14.
Jurassic Park

Year: 1993
Runtime: 2h 2m

In today’s world filled with productions like Michael Bay and Transformers, it’s refreshing to see a modern blockbuster that still carries the signature touch of Steven Spielberg, as evident in the intricate details such as the shimmering water glass or the unexpectedly dark humor displayed when the lawyer is attacked in the bathroom. Frankly, we’re grateful for films that bear the influence of Spielberg’s craftsmanship on their creation.

13.
The Post

Year: 2017
Runtime: 1h 56m

Following his 71st birthday, Spielberg has ventured into the Clint Eastwood stage of his career, where he relies on intuition and delivers concise, straightforward narratives with minimal fluff. This no-frills approach is perfectly effective in “The Post“, which narrates the harrowing tale of the Washington Post‘s quest to publish the Pentagon Papers and dismantle the Nixon White House’s flawed Vietnam policy. There isn’t a single moment in this swift, electrifying film that lacks clarity regarding modern-day relevance (with Nixon representing Trump, while the Washington Post‘s mission mirrors today’s press’s role in exposing corruption). However, only Spielberg could make a newspaper drama this exhilarating. “The Post” may not be as exceptional as “All the President’s Men “, but it serves as a prequel to that movie, and its cast is exceptional, particularly Tom Hanks portraying a grumpy Bill Bradlee and Meryl Streep conveying a conflicted Kay Graham. For a filmmaker renowned for creating crowd-pleasers, this is one of his best in years — undeniably one of his most politically vital works.

12.
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom

Year: 1984
Runtime: 1h 58m

Under another name, “The Movie That Introduced the PG-13 Rating,” “Temple of Doom” was more than just that; it was a trendsetter in various ways. For instance, it was a prequel, placing Indiana Jones against a horde of terrifying cult members who had a peculiar fondness for extracting their victims’ hearts while they were still alive. However, one must acknowledge that the character Short Round, played by Jonathan Ke Quan, borders on offensive, reminiscent of Mickey Rooney in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Similarly, Kate Capshaw may not measure up to Karen Allen. But aside from these points, this film is a rollercoaster of adrenaline, with Spielberg determined to surpass the stunt sequences from “Raiders.

11.
Munich

Year: 2005
Runtime: 2h 44m

The power of Munich, Spielberg’s true-life drama based on Mossad’s covert operation to find those responsible for the murder of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Olympics, lies in its portrayal as a sequence of thrilling spy and action scenes. However, this excitement serves as a ruse to imply that the thirst for revenge – no matter how warranted – leads to more violence, tarnishing noble intentions and leaving blood on everyone’s hands. Although some may criticize the inclusion of one explicit sex scene (as discussed by cinematographer Janusz Kaminski in an interview with Vulture), Munich stands as Spielberg’s Unforgiven, unapologetically denouncing both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for their ongoing cycle of violence and retribution.

10.
The Fabelmans

Year: 2022
Runtime: 2h 31m

Yes, Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical work, “The Fabelmans,” is indeed a tribute to the magical world of cinema. However, what truly sets it apart as one of his finest recent productions isn’t just its celebration of movies; it’s the older filmmaker’s poignant quest to decipher the enigmatic lives of his late parents, Mitzi and Burt. Gabriel LaBelle portrays Sammy, their anxious son, with Michelle Williams and Paul Dano delivering touching performances as the imperfect yet loving parents trying to raise him.

The film delves into the strains within their marriage, which ultimately prove too difficult to bear, despite their lingering love for each other. Sammy’s journey of self-discovery, his immersion in moviemaking, are integral parts of this narrative. However, “The Fabelmans” is far from a sentimental or overly nostalgic tale. Instead, it carries the weight of deep emotional turmoil that even a Spielbergian happy ending might not entirely erase.

9.
Lincoln

Year: 2012
Runtime: 2h 30m

As I sat down to watch Lincoln, I couldn’t help but feel that the film seemed almost tailor-made for Spielberg. Yet, in this instance, he doesn’t just meet expectations; he surpasses them, creating something truly enchanting on screen. He manages to preserve the aura of the 16th president while simultaneously immersing him in his historical context, making Lincoln feel vibrantly alive. Spielberg avoids both over-romanticizing and oversimplifying the character, striking a perfect balance between reverence and realism.

What truly sets this film apart, though, is the exceptional performance of Daniel Day-Lewis as our 16th president. I can’t help but wonder if Spielberg has ever collaborated with a more gifted actor. Together, they bring Lincoln to life in a way that feels both recognizable and strikingly innovative. This Lincoln may be familiar, but he is also breathtakingly fresh and new.

8.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Year: 1977
Runtime: 2h 17m

Among the few films Spielberg himself penned, with the exception of “A.I.“, which was so collaborative it’s questionable, this might be the closest he has approached to delivering a raw, untainted representation of his artistic spirit. While the dialogue may not resonate as strongly now, his blend of the poetic and the otherworldly continues to showcase exceptional skill. Regardless of one’s opinion on “Star Wars“, it feels more outdated compared to this, as they were both released in the same year.

7.
Minority Report

Year: 2002
Runtime: 2h 25m

A year following the release of the grim sci-fi drama “A.I.“, Spielberg followed up with another potentially darker sci-fi action film that was masterfully and exhilaratingly produced. The bleak future it portrayed was so well executed, it often went unnoticed. Set in a world where advertising is omnipresent and tailored to each individual, “Minority Report” stands as the epitome of Big Brother dystopias, adapting Philip K. Dick’s short story into a chilling, high-budget noir filled with striking action sequences that are unparalleled in any single Spielberg movie. Rather than seeking to charm us, Spielberg subjected his audience to a harrowing experience, and his aggressive style was ably supported by star Tom Cruise, who thrives in high-octane roles. Remarkably, they would create an even more intense film when they collaborated again.

6.
War of the Worlds

Year: 2005
Runtime: 1h 56m

The ending might not be as impressive as some of Spielberg’s past works, but every moment before it is just as engaging and awe-inspiring as any filmmaker ought to be able to achieve. Spielberg skillfully integrates post-9/11 real-life apprehension into this end-of-the-world narrative, resulting in a truly apocalyptic feel. Without a doubt, War of the Worlds is one of Spielberg’s most underestimated films, showcasing the pure essence of his dynamic, otherworldly abilities.

5.
Saving Private Ryan

Year: 1998
Runtime: 2h 49m

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to highlight that “Saving Private Ryan” transcends its breathtaking opening scene on the Normandy beach. This film showcases Tom Hanks in a subtly powerful and understated performance as a resilient Army captain, guiding his troops on a seemingly improbable mission to rescue the sole surviving member of the Ryan family (Matt Damon), after their other brothers were lost in the war.

The non-combat sequences, initially perceived as less exciting compared to the rest of the film, now serve as poignant pauses where we delve deeper into these characters’ lives. Despite Spielberg’s inclination towards sentimental bookends, the raw emotional intensity of “Saving Private Ryan” leaves an indelible impact on viewers.

4.
Jaws

Year: 1975
Runtime: 2h 10m

The classic movie Jaws seems slower than you recall, indicating that very few of the movies it influenced paid attention to its primary filmmaking lesson: Build anticipation, build anticipation, build anticipation… and then shock them. At times, his technique borders on subconscious, almost giving the impression of a telepathic understanding of human psychology and how to frighten it. It’s also worth mentioning that Jaws devotes significant time to its characters, particularly Robert Shaw’s Captain Quint. Critics may have criticized Jaws for leading Hollywood out of the daring era of the late sixties and early seventies into a more impersonal multiplex age, but this is not the film’s fault; it simply reflects the magnitude of Jaws’ achievement.

3.
Schindler’s List

Year: 1993
Runtime: 3h 15m

In simpler terms, “Schindler’s List,” one of Spielberg’s most serious films and an Academy Award winner, might seem different from his usual style with big action scenes, but instead offers intense and sobering sequences. These memorable moments often depict cruelty such as Amon Göth (Ralph Fiennes) shooting Jewish prisoners or the brutal clearing of the Jewish ghetto on film. While Spielberg occasionally adds a touch of sentimentality, like the image of a girl in a red coat, it’s a minor element in a movie that doesn’t sugarcoat a dark period in human history. The story does not have a happy ending, but there is a faint glimmer of hope.

2.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

Year: 1982
Runtime: 2 hours

In terms of adjusted box office earnings, this remains Steven Spielberg’s most successful film (ranking fourth overall), but there’s a unique, enduring quality to it rather than a typical blockbuster feel. It seems more universal and timeless, capturing a sentiment that many can relate to – the feeling of being misunderstood as a child, with no adults willing to listen. The poignant loss of friendship, the longing for camaraderie, and the unspoken pain are all palpable. This is the film where Spielberg perfectly encapsulated his exploration of childhood, making it his most personal work. It’s no surprise that he feels a strong connection to this movie. What makes it even more powerful is that there was never a sequel – preserving its unique and untarnished impact. Unlike some films that have become staples on cable television, “E.T.” hasn’t repeated as often as you might expect. However, rewatching it will bring back the initial emotions, making it a memorable experience each time.

1.
Raiders of the Lost Ark

Year: 1981
Runtime: 2h

Steven Spielberg has created more significant and emotionally resonant films than Raiders of the Lost Ark, but none have achieved the level of all-around perfection that this one has. Conceived during a Hawaiian vacation with friend George Lucas, this film is both humorous, seductive, and pulse-pounding. It introduced Indiana Jones to the world – a character who embodies elements of Sherlock Holmes (intelligence), James Bond (charm), Man With No Name (toughness), and Han Solo (endearing roguishness). Harrison Ford, synonymous with his Star Wars character, might prefer to be associated with Indiana Jones because in Raiders, he encapsulates the epitome of the witty, everyman action hero. It’s clear why Spielberg would enjoy making this film. While some critics attribute the rise of blockbuster/event movies to him, it’s not his fault that none of his followers can create them with the same brilliance as he did here.

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2025-06-20 18:57