Actors Who Died in 2025 – Minority Mindset

This year has brought many sad goodbyes for movie and television fans. We’ve lost a number of well-known actors, including Hollywood legends, versatile performers, memorable character actors, and even former child stars. Among those we’ve mourned are several talented Oscar and Emmy winners.

In 2025, we’re sadly remembering the passing of legendary actors like Diane Keaton, known for her captivating presence in films for over half a century; Val Kilmer, the versatile star who led many popular action movies in the 80s and 90s; and Robert Redford, a beloved Hollywood figure who supported independent filmmaking and helped shape a new era of cinema.

This year, we’ve also said goodbye to several well-known figures, including George Wendt, beloved for his role on *Cheers*; Michelle Trachtenberg, a popular star from the 2000s; and David Lynch, the acclaimed director who also occasionally acted.

These talented actors, famous for their roles in movies and television, create lasting performances that will be enjoyed for years to come, preserved through film and modern digital formats.

TV and Movie Actors Who Died in 2025

David Lynch

David Lynch, the celebrated filmmaker known for his dreamlike and often disturbing movies and TV shows, passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 78. He created iconic works like *Eraserhead*, *Blue Velvet*, *Mulholland Drive*, and the influential series *Twin Peaks*. In addition to directing, Lynch occasionally acted, appearing in projects like *Twin Peaks* and *The Fablemans*.

Joan Plowright

Joan Plowright, the widow of Laurence Olivier and a celebrated actress, passed away in London on January 16, 2025, at the age of 95. Throughout her impressive seven-decade career, she appeared in films like *Enchanted April*, *Tea With Mussolini*, and *I Am David*, as well as many stage productions.

Peter Navy Tuiasosopo

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Peter Navy Tuiasosopo on February 10, 2025. He was 61 years old, and I always enjoyed seeing him in films like *Necessary Roughness*, *Street Fighter*, and *The Fast and the Furious*. He truly left his mark on those movies.

Lynne Marie Stewart

Lynne Marie Stewart, who was 78 years old, passed away on February 21, 2025. She was a familiar face on television, most notably as Miss Yvonne on *Pee-wee’s Playhouse*. She also appeared in popular shows like *M*A*S*H*, *Laverne & Shirley*, and *The Golden Girls*.

Michelle Trachtenberg

Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in *Harriet the Spy*, *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, *Gossip Girl*, and *EuroTrip*, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39, due to complications from diabetes.

Pamela Bach

Pamela Bach, known for her roles on the TV show *Baywatch* and guest appearances on shows like *Knight Rider*, *The Young and the Restless*, *T.J. Hooker*, and *Viper*, died on March 5, 2025, at her home in Los Angeles. She was 62 years old. Her death was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain passed away on March 29, 2025, at the age of 90. He became well-known for playing Dr. Kildare in the popular 1960s TV show of the same name, and also received praise for his roles in *The Thorn Birds*, *The Count of Monte Cristo*, and *Shōgun*.

Val Kilmer

Val Kilmer passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65, after battling pneumonia and related health issues. He was a talented actor known for his work in popular films like *Top Gun*, *The Doors*, *Batman Forever*, *Heat*, *Tombstone*, and *Kiss Kiss Bang Bang*.

Sophie Nyweide

Sophie Nyweide, a former child actor known for her roles in films like *Bella*, *Mammoth*, *Margot at the Wedding*, and *Noah*, passed away on April 14, 2025. She was 24 years old.

Priscilla Pointer

Priscilla Pointer, a well-known actress who appeared in films like *Carrie*, *Blue Velvet*, *Twilight Zone: The Movie*, and *Mommie Dearest*, passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 100.

Lorna Raver

Lorna Raver, the character actress known for her work in the horror film *Drag Me to Hell*, passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 82.

George Wendt

George Wendt, best known for playing Norm Peterson on the TV show *Cheers*, passed away at his Los Angeles home on May 20, 2025. He was 76 years old. The actor received six Emmy nominations for his popular role and became a well-loved figure in American comedy.

Peter Kwong

Peter Kwong, a 73-year-old actor and martial artist known for roles in films like *Big Trouble in Little China*, *The Golden Child*, and *Cooties*, passed away in his sleep on May 27, 2025. He was also a dedicated representative for Hollywood unions.

Valerie Mahaffey

Valerie Mahaffey, the Emmy-winning actress known for playing Eve on *Northern Exposure*, passed away on May 30, 2025, at age 71. She also had roles in popular shows like *Desperate Housewives* and *Young Sheldon*, and appeared in films including *Sully* and *French Exit*.

Loretta Swit

Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for playing Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the hit TV show *M*A*S*H*, passed away at her New York City home on May 30, 2025. She was 87 years old and appeared in all 11 seasons of the popular series.

Harris Yulin

Harris Yulin, a well-known actor with over 100 credits in film and television, passed away on June 10, 2025, at the age of 87. He was known for his roles in popular productions like *Scarface*, *Ghostbusters II*, *Clear and Present Danger*, *Training Day*, *Frasier*, and *The Hurricane*.

Joe Marinelli

Joe Marinelli, a television actor known for roles in shows like *NYPD Blue*, *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, *Desperate Housewives*, *Victorious*, and as Director Donny Spagnoli in *The Morning Show*, passed away on June 22, 2025, at the age of 68, after a battle with stomach cancer.

Julian McMahon

Actor Julian McMahon passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 56, following a battle with lung cancer. He was well-known for his roles in television shows like *Nip/Tuck* and *Charmed*, as well as for playing Doctor Doom in the 2005 *Fantastic Four* movie.

Michael Madsen

Michael Madsen, the actor famous for playing Mr. Blonde in *Reservoir Dogs*, passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 67. He also appeared in several other well-known films, including *Kill Bill*, *The Hateful Eight*, *Donnie Brasco*, and *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner tragically died in an accidental drowning while on vacation in Costa Rica on July 20, 2025. He was 54. Warner was widely known for his role as Theo Huxtable on *The Cosby Show*, which earned him an Emmy nomination. He also appeared in several other television series, including *Malcolm & Eddie*, *Reed Between the Lines*, and *The Resident*.

Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. He suffered a heart attack after collapsing during recovery from surgery at his home in Florida. Best known as the face of “Hulkamania,” Hogan became a popular wrestler and later an actor, appearing in films like *Rocky III*, *No Holds Barred*, *Mr. Nanny*, and *Suburban Commando*. He also starred in reality TV shows, including *Hogan Knows Best*.

Alon Aboutboul

Alon Aboutboul, who acted in over 100 movies and TV shows around the world – including well-known films like *The Dark Knight Rises*, *London Has Fallen*, and *Munich* – passed away on July 29, 2025, at the age of 60.

Kelley Mack

Kelley Mack, the actress known for her role as Addy on *The Walking Dead*, passed away on August 2, 2025, at age 33. She also appeared in *Chicago Med*, *9-1-1*, and *Schooled*.

Loni Anderson

Loni Anderson, the actress famous for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on *WKRP in Cincinnati*, passed away on August 3, 2025, at the age of 79. She also starred in films like *Stroker Ace* and *A Night at the Roxbury*.

Danielle Spencer

Danielle Spencer, the actress known for playing Dee Thomas on the sitcoms *What’s Happening!!* and *What’s Happening Now!!*, passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 60. After her acting career, she became a veterinarian.

Mark Dobies

Mark Dobies passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 65. He was well-known for his work on the soap operas *Guiding Light* and *One Life to Live*, and also made appearances on shows like *Gossip Girl*, *CSI: Miami*, and *Melrose Place*.

Terence Stamp

Terence Stamp, the Oscar-nominated actor famous for playing General Zod in the *Superman* movies, passed away on August 17, 2025, at the age of 87. Throughout his 60-year career, he also starred in films like *The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert*, *The Limey*, and *Far From the Madding Crowd*.

Graham Greene

Graham Greene, the celebrated First Nations actor, passed away on September 1, 2025, at the age of 73. He was widely recognized for his roles in films like *Dances With Wolves*, *Thunderheart*, and *The Green Mile*, and is remembered as a groundbreaking Indigenous presence in the film industry.

Robert Redford

Robert Redford, the celebrated Hollywood actor and director, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He was known for iconic roles in films like *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*, *The Sting*, *All the President’s Men*, and *Out of Africa*. Later in his career, he gained recognition as a director with films such as *Ordinary People* and *Quiz Show*.

Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton, the Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in films like *Annie Hall*, *The Godfather* trilogy, *Reds*, *Something’s Gotta Give*, and *The First Wives Club*, passed away on October 11, 2025, at the age of 79. She died from pneumonia.

The 40 Best Movies of the Last 40 Years (1985-2024)

40. The Fugitive (1993)

It’s easy to overlook a genuinely fun movie when you’re focusing on films with deeper meanings or symbolism. But *The Fugitive* makes a large-scale chase movie seem effortless. In reality, it’s incredibly challenging to create something this good – a tightly-plotted mystery with exciting action and fantastic performances, especially from Tommy Lee Jones as the relentless U.S. Marshal Sam Gerard. The reason it’s so rewatchable is its exceptional skill and quality, which is even more uncommon today than it was back in 1993.

39. Holy Motors (2012)

Leos Carax’s *Holy Motors* feels like the most incredible dream you can have while awake. It’s a wildly imaginative and strangely moving tribute to film, acting, and life itself – suggesting they’re all deeply connected. Denis Lavant delivers eleven fantastic performances as Oscar, a man who journeys through Paris in a limousine, constantly transforming into different characters, from a performer in a motion-capture suit to a gangster and a beggar. While what Oscar actually *does* remains a mystery, the film powerfully demonstrates the enduring power and unrealized possibilities of cinema, especially at a time when how we watch movies is rapidly changing.

38. Hard Boiled (1992)

John Woo’s *Hard Boiled* begins with a simple scene: a drink being made. Tequila and soda are poured into a glass, then the glass is slammed onto the bar, mixing the ingredients. This opening isn’t just about drinks; it hints at the film’s core idea. *Hard Boiled* is about what happens when very different people are thrown together and collide. Both Chow Yun-Fat and Tony Leung are great actors on their own, but when they work together, the result is explosive and unforgettable – pure movie magic.

37. Matinee (1993)

Joe Dante’s *Matinee* isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it cleverly examines the difference between genuine fear and the cheap thrills offered by low-budget movies, particularly those of producer Lawrence Woolsey (John Goodman). It’s surprising how insightful a film about a cheesy producer can be.

The movie’s affectionate look at 1960s B-movies is balanced by a recognition of the harsh realities of the world, both then and now. The story centers on Gene (Simon Fenton), a teenager living with his mother and brother on a military base during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His father is absent, serving in the Navy. Gene often takes care of his younger brother, Dennis (Jesse Lee), while his overwhelmed mother works. Because of their father’s job, the family frequently moves, making the brothers feel like outsiders at school. The local movie theater offers them a much-needed escape and a sense of happiness amidst all the instability.

36. Back to the Future (1985)

As a huge movie fan, I always say that *Back to the Future* is just brilliant. It starts with a question I think everyone asks themselves as a teen – what were my parents *really* like when they were my age? – and builds this incredibly clever story around it. The film follows Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, a pretty laid-back guy who dreams of being a rock star. He ends up traveling back to 1955 in a totally tricked-out DeLorean created by his eccentric scientist friend. Then, things get crazy! He accidentally interferes with his parents meeting, and has to fix the timeline to make sure he’s even *born*. It’s funny, a little weird, visually fantastic, and the editing is so tight and exciting. Honestly, it’s pretty much a perfect example of what 80s Hollywood could achieve.

35. Jackie Brown (1997)

What I really appreciate about *Jackie Brown* is how relatable and flawed the characters are. Max Cherry isn’t a glamorous gangster; he’s just an ordinary guy, a bit down on his luck. And Jackie isn’t a criminal mastermind – we even see her practicing to look tough before a tense situation. Even Louis Gara has a very human moment, forgetting where he parked during a robbery! They feel like real people, and I think some of Tarantino’s later films could benefit from that same level of authenticity. Some viewers were initially disappointed that *Jackie Brown* wasn’t as flashy as *Pulp Fiction*, but Tarantino’s more subtle choices are actually what make it so great. The opening credits cleverly establish Jackie’s character without her saying a word, and scenes like the one with Ordell and Beaumont are truly memorable. Plus, the film ends with a beautifully imperfect kiss – it’s touching not because it’s overtly sensual, but because it feels real.

34. The Fabelmans (2022)

What truly stands out in *The Fabelmans* is Steven Spielberg’s enduring love for film. Even decades after the events depicted in the opening scene, he retains the same fascination with movies that young Sammy Fabelman experienced when he first saw *The Greatest Show on Earth* and began recreating scenes at home. Spielberg has become a master filmmaker, learning how to use visuals and sound to evoke a wide range of emotions. However, he’s never forgotten *why* he makes movies in the first place.

*The Fabelmans* is Spielberg’s personal story, exploring both the beauty and the challenges of filmmaking and life itself. Cinema provides Sammy with a way to deal with his fears and loneliness, though it sometimes leads to further isolation. His growing passion for directing connects him with his creative mother, brilliantly portrayed by Michelle Williams, but also risks revealing a painful family secret. Now, years later, Spielberg has crafted an incredible, deeply emotional story—one that, like all great films, is full of life, love, joy, and sadness.

33. Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (2021)

Okay, look, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo after *Bridesmaids*, but their new film, *Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar*, absolutely blew me away. They wrote and star as two best friends who, after losing their jobs at a furniture store, decide to blow their severance on a Florida vacation. Things get…weird. They fall for a ridiculously handsome guy – Jamie Dornan is brilliantly self-aware here, playing against his usual image – who’s secretly part of a plot to unleash killer mosquitoes on the town. Yes, really! Wiig and Mumolo are comedic gold, bouncing off each other with hilarious observations about everything from Tommy Bahama shirts to the perfect name, Trish. Honestly, this script is quotable from start to finish. In a world that often feels pretty grim, *Barb and Star* arrived like a sparkly, joyful explosion – a total beacon of fun and exactly what we needed.

32. Inside Out (2015)

Even before becoming Pixar’s creative leader, Pete Docter was known as a brilliant talent at the studio. He contributed as a writer to beloved films like *Toy Story*, *Toy Story 2*, and *WALL-E*, and went on to direct three of Pixar’s most acclaimed movies: *Monsters, Inc.*, *Up*, and *Inside Out*. *Inside Out* is a uniquely creative story that explores the mind of an 11-year-old girl. When Riley moves from Minnesota to San Francisco, her life is turned upside down, leading to a conflict between the personified emotions within her brain. The film’s depiction of Riley’s inner world is visually stunning and endlessly imaginative. But beyond its creativity, *Inside Out* is a remarkably insightful film about the vital role that sadness and grief play in our lives.

31. The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)

The game *Donkey Kong* is a surprisingly good reflection of life itself. It’s incredibly challenging, often unfair, and success feels more like luck than skill. You might occasionally triumph, but just as easily you’ll be crushed by unexpected setbacks – like a gorilla stealing your girlfriend and relentlessly throwing barrels at you. Even achieving the highest possible score doesn’t offer lasting victory; ultimately, everyone fails. And sometimes, you even have to contend with strange and unpredictable people.

That’s why *The King of Kong* isn’t just a documentary about competitive *Donkey Kong*; it’s a film about the human experience.

30. Memento (2000)

Don’t mistake *Memento* for just a clever trick. While it’s true the film has a complex, non-linear structure – arguably one of the most intricate ever created – it’s much more than a stylistic exercise. The way the timelines are interwoven and jump around isn’t just to grab your attention; it deliberately puts you inside the confused and fractured mind of Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), the main character, who suffers from a rare form of amnesia that prevents him from forming new memories.

Leonard is driven to find his wife’s killer, and the film begins by seemingly showing his success, then unravels backwards to reveal the truth. *Memento* immediately established Christopher Nolan as a director to watch, but beneath the innovative structure lies a deeply tragic story about a man desperately seeking meaning in his life. While Nolan continued to experiment with film structure and explore similar themes in his later work, he largely left behind the dark humor present in *Memento* – from the darkly comedic chase scene where Leonard doesn’t know who is chasing whom, to the ironic name of his hotel, the “Discount Inn” (a nod to Leonard constantly dismissing the story of a man with a similar condition).

29. L.A. Confidential (1997)

Just how many layers of retro references does *L.A. Confidential* have? The film is set in the 1950s, clearly inspired by the 1970s classic *Chinatown*, and was made in the late 1990s – a time when large-scale, expensive crime dramas with mostly unknown actors were still possible (with Kevin Spacey and Kim Basinger as the only established stars). Like the novel by James Ellroy that it’s based on, *L.A. Confidential* dismantles the idea that the 1950s were a simpler, more idyllic era in Los Angeles. As one character points out, that’s a carefully constructed image, and the real story remained hidden until Ellroy and director Curtis Hanson brought it to light.

28. The Prestige (2006)

Christopher Nolan’s *The Prestige* is a masterful film where his signature style – complex timelines, unexpected twists, and recurring themes like flawed heroes and loss – come together brilliantly. Set in Victorian London, the movie follows two competing magicians, played by Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman, whose rivalry escalates to dangerous lengths, driving them to both incredible innovation and deadly acts. *The Prestige* is a story within a story, examining the sacrifices artists make for their craft and the inherent duality of human nature. What makes it special is that it remains enjoyable and revealing even after multiple viewings, rewarding attentive watchers with cleverly hidden foreshadowing.

27. The Social Network (2010)

Whether David Fincher and Aaron Sorkin accurately depicted the beginnings of Facebook is open to discussion. However, they undeniably captured a specific personality type, perfectly embodied by Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg: incredibly intelligent, frustrated, privileged, and craving acceptance. Many questioned Fincher’s choice to make a film about Facebook in 2010, but it’s now clear it followed the themes of his earlier film, *Fight Club*, which also explored a resentful, isolated man whose anger has unforeseen results. A crucial element of the film is Justin Timberlake’s casting as Sean Parker, the Napster founder and early Facebook executive, who acts as a kind of mentor – or darker reflection – to Zuckerberg. Timberlake and Eisenberg share a striking resemblance, almost like brothers if one had all the luck and the other none. That’s the person Mark Zuckerberg desperately wants to be, and he’s tantalizingly close to achieving it.

26. Nickel Boys (2024)

It’s rare to see a truly original film, one that feels genuinely new and pushes the boundaries of cinema. But every so often, a movie like *Nickel Boys* comes along. This film is bold, insightful, and offers a unique perspective – actually, two. Director and co-screenwriter RaMell Ross made a striking choice: to film almost the entire adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel from the point of view of the two main characters. This incredible camerawork, by Ross and cinematographer Jomo Fray, fully immerses you in the experiences of these two young men as they struggle to survive at a 1960s Florida reform school. It’s a technique that could easily feel gimmicky, but in Ross’s hands, it’s powerfully effective, offering a fresh way of seeing the world – and perhaps a glimpse into the future of filmmaking. It’s baffling that Jomo Fray wasn’t nominated for an Oscar for his cinematography.

25. Past Lives (2023)

This moving and poignant film explores the unseen forces that connect and divide us – whether you call it fate, destiny, or *in-yun*. It centers on Nora (Greta Lee) and Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), two people who keep finding their way back to each other despite the obstacles. We see them meet at different stages of life – as children, in college, and as adults – and each time, circumstances have changed. However, their connection remains powerful, even when Nora is married to an American named Arthur (John Magaro). The film delicately portrays this love triangle, and its ultimately heartbreaking conclusion will leave you thinking about the defining moments and choices in your own life, and how their significance may only become clear with time.

24. Boyhood (2014)

For twelve years, director Richard Linklater secretly filmed scenes with the same actors – a boy (Ellar Coltrane), his mother (Patricia Arquette), and his sister (Lorelei Linklater) – a few days each year. While some might see this as a clever filmmaking trick related to Linklater’s own life, the result is a truly special record of American life in the early 2000s, and a deeply moving portrayal of one family’s love, struggles, and sacrifices. All movies deal with time, but *Boyhood* has a uniquely powerful connection to it. Seeing the actors actually age on screen adds a beautiful layer to happy moments and makes the sad ones even more impactful. When Patricia Arquette reflects on her life at the end, her words carry the weight of a dozen years of real experiences. As the late Roger Ebert eloquently put it, “Movies are windows into our world.” And I can’t think of a film that throws those windows open any wider than *Boyhood*.

23. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Despite being a fun and lighthearted film, *Catch Me If You Can* is also a surprisingly thoughtful look at loneliness and the importance of family. It features a fantastic cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio as the clever con artist Frank Abagnale Jr., Christopher Walken as his struggling father, Jennifer Garner and Amy Adams as his romantic interests, and Tom Hanks as the determined, serious FBI agent Carl Hanratty.

22. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Mad Max: Fury Road isn’t just the best car chase movie of the 21st century—it’s surprisingly profound. The film feels like a modern retelling of the biblical story of Exodus, with Charlize Theron’s Furiosa leading a group of women on a desperate journey to find a better life. Tom Hardy’s Max acts as their reluctant guide, helping them search for a safe haven he can’t share. George Miller’s action masterpiece proves that thrilling entertainment and intelligent storytelling can go hand-in-hand. Anyone who claims otherwise is simply trying to provoke a reaction.

21. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

At over 80 years old, Martin Scorsese continues to challenge himself and his viewers with films that delve into familiar themes: the dangerous allure of wealth and the tragic side of American history. His latest movie, *Killers of the Flower Moon*, focuses on the murders of Osage Nation members in the 1920s, after oil was discovered on their Oklahoma land and they became targets of their white neighbors—including a man (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) married to an Osage woman (played by Lily Gladstone) who inherited wealth from the oil. With each new film, it feels increasingly important to say this, but it’s especially true now: if *Killers of the Flower Moon* is Scorsese’s last movie, it’s a fitting and powerful conclusion to an extraordinary career.

20. Chungking Express (1994)

Beyond its famous features – like a fantastic pop soundtrack, vibrant neon visuals, and captivating (though often unfulfilled) love stories – *Chungking Express* brilliantly portrays the feeling of modern city life. It captures the odd loneliness of being in a crowded place, the longing for open space and sunlight, how quickly relationships can change, the simple pleasure of a bar’s jukebox, and even the curious nature of people working late at night.

19. Boogie Nights (1997)

Paul Thomas Anderson’s film is a funny, sad, and nostalgic look at the golden age of the adult film industry in Southern California. It moves quickly, introducing a memorable cast of characters, including a washed-up director reminiscent of Burt Reynolds and Julianne Moore’s portrayal of a troubled, maternal figure. Beyond the specifics of the porn world, the film feels like a broader exploration of America in the late 1970s – its beauty, its desires, and its underlying sense of melancholy and excess.

18. Ran (1985)

Akira Kurosawa’s *Ran* is my favorite film of his. It’s especially striking because it was made later in his career and, unlike many of his films, is in color. In fact, that’s a big part of why I love it – the vibrant colors, especially in the costumes, feel like a powerful finishing touch to every scene.

17. The Matrix (1999)

One of the best parts about being a lifelong movie fan is revisiting films from my past and seeing how they stand the test of time. I remember seeing *The Matrix* opening weekend – I went in with no real expectations, and it absolutely blew me away. I can still picture the exact theater, the auditorium, even my seat! The trailers were promising, but the movie itself was just captivating. And honestly, more than 20 years later, it still is. If I had one complaint, it would be this: don’t even *think* about putting it on as background noise. You’ll end up abandoning whatever you were doing and watching *The Matrix* for the, let’s be real, sixty-fifth time.

16. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)

2007 was a fantastic year for movies, but Julian Schnabel’s *The Diving Bell & The Butterfly* stands out to me. It’s based on Jean-Dominique Bauby’s memoir about living with locked-in syndrome, and both the story and the film’s message about appreciating life deeply impacted me. I was so moved that I left the theater and proposed to my girlfriend – we’ve now been married for over 15 years and have two children, and I couldn’t be happier! Seeing it again recently, I was reminded of just how powerful and inspiring this film remains.

15. Die Hard (1988)

Does *Die Hard* really need an explanation as one of the greatest movies ever made? It’s obvious! Think about Bruce Willis’s amazing portrayal of John McClane, a New York cop just trying to enjoy a vacation, or John McTiernan’s masterful action sequences. Plus, it’s the perfect Christmas movie… with a lot of gunfire.

14. Close-Up (1990)

This groundbreaking Iranian film tells the story of a man who pretended to be a famous filmmaker and tricked a family in Tehran. Director Abbas Kiarostami uniquely cast the real people involved to play themselves, blending actual court footage with recreated scenes from before he got involved. *Close-Up*’s innovative mix of documentary and fiction, and its exploration of themes like fame and social class, continues to be highly influential and stands out as a truly unique work.

13. The Truman Show (1998)

It’s easy to wonder if we’re actually living in a simulation. If not, the movie *The Truman Show* eerily predicted our current world – one where privacy is disappearing, advertising is everywhere, and anxiety is common. While the film is about a man unknowingly living in a reality TV show, the first half of the story perfectly captures the feeling of a mid-life crisis – that moment when you turn forty and start questioning everything about your life.

12. Zodiac (2007)

David Fincher is known for his films about serial killers, but *Zodiac* is more than just a crime thriller. It’s a journey through San Francisco’s history, seen through the eyes of three men obsessed with solving the Zodiac Killer case. We follow a police inspector (Mark Ruffalo), rumored to have inspired the film *Bullitt*, a crime reporter (Robert Downey Jr.) who became a target of the Zodiac, and an amateur detective (Jake Gyllenhaal) unable to abandon the investigation even after the killings cease. What *Zodiac* does exceptionally well is portray the overwhelming power of obsession. Fincher immerses viewers in a complex web of clues and false leads using masterful camerawork and editing. By the film’s ending—which cleverly connects back to the beginning after a tense two and a half hours—you truly understand how Robert Graysmith feels.

11. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)

The films of Joel and Ethan Coen often feel like collaborations between two voices, and *Inside Llewyn Davis* is especially focused on that idea. As I’ve discussed previously, the movie portrays New York’s folk music scene in the early 1960s while also telling the story of a talented musician (Oscar Isaac, in a standout performance) dealing with a series of unfortunate events after his musical partner dies. It’s fitting that Llewyn’s most beautiful song is about saying goodbye, and that the song loses something when performed solo.

10.Lady Bird (2017)

Greta Gerwig’s film, *Lady Bird*, is structured around pairs and contrasts. The main character, known as Lady Bird, has two first names and throughout the story navigates two romantic relationships and friendships. The film covers two semesters of high school, each featuring a school play and dance, as well as two parties. She also has unique relationships with each of her parents and considers two colleges and churches. This focus on possibilities makes *Lady Bird* a thoughtful film about making choices—and how, at that age, even small decisions can feel incredibly important, which, in many ways, they are.

9. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

I can’t recall exactly when or where I first watched *Eternal Sunshine*, but it was around 20 years ago while I was living in New York City. The details of that first viewing have faded with time, like so many memories do. Ironically, that makes me appreciate the film even more now. What’s so brilliant about *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind* is that it uses a science fiction idea – a couple erasing each other from their memories – to explore how we naturally forget things. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet make a fantastic, yet heartbreaking, movie couple because their relationship is destined to fail. Ultimately, all relationships end, much like a beach house slowly being washed away by the ocean.

8. Pulp Fiction (1994)

While *Pulp Fiction* may not be the most copied film of the ’90s today, it was hugely influential for a time. The fact that so many attempts to recreate its style were so bad really highlights just how talented Quentin Tarantino is, both then and now.

*Pulp Fiction* is a strange mix of things that somehow all work together. It’s a grand story about crime in Los Angeles, but also a deep look at its characters. It jumps between wildly fantastical elements – like mysterious briefcases and secret clubs – and incredibly ordinary moments, like chatting about foot rubs or foreign fast food. It’s big and small, funny and sad, violent and silly. That’s what makes it *Pulp Fiction*.

7. Do the Right Thing (1989)

Spike Lee’s film, set during a scorching summer day in Brooklyn, powerfully explores racial tensions and, unfortunately, still feels incredibly relevant. The story centers on a neighborhood and a local Italian pizzeria, which becomes the focal point of a riot after a Black man is killed by police. The film leaves viewers pondering whether Mookie, a central character, made the right decision by throwing a garbage can through the pizzeria window – and perhaps the very act of asking that question is more important than any definitive answer.

6. American Movie (1999)

This charming and often humorous documentary follows Mark Borchardt, an aspiring filmmaker, as he tries to finish a film he’s been working on for years. It’s a surprisingly touching look at the frustration of chasing dreams, showing Mark’s dedication to his craft and the challenges he faces. Beyond that, *American Movie* is a heartwarming story about friendship, highlighting the support Mark receives from his friend Mike while making his low-budget films. It’s an enjoyable film for younger audiences, but gains a deeper, more emotional resonance as you get older – it’s easily one of the best American films ever made.

5. Take Shelter (2011)

Having experienced panic attacks myself, I can confidently say that *Take Shelter* is a truly exceptional film about living with anxiety. The movie centers on Curtis LaForche (Michael Shannon), a family man who, despite having a loving wife and daughter, is plagued by terrifying nightmares of devastating storms and a constant feeling of impending doom. Michael Shannon delivers a phenomenal performance, powerfully supported by Jessica Chastain as his wife, and the film accurately portrays the vicious cycle of fear – Curtis worries about losing his mind, as mental illness runs in his family, and that worry only intensifies his anxiety. While some might see the ending as open to interpretation, I find it completely logical. The film demonstrates that this type of anxiety can’t be overcome or blocked out, even by trying to protect the things you cherish. It can only be managed with understanding and the help of those you love.

4. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

Actor Rick Dalton and his stuntman, Cliff Booth, have lunch with producer Marvin Schwarz at the Musso & Frank Grill. Schwarz suggests Rick star in Italian Westerns, but Rick is unimpressed and deeply upset, feeling like his career is over. He breaks down in tears as soon as he leaves the restaurant. Director Quentin Tarantino films this with a low camera angle, emphasizing the restaurant’s sign – “Oldest in Hollywood” – looming over Rick and Cliff.

Though Rick isn’t actually old news, he feels that way in that moment, realizing his time might be running out. *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood* is a brilliant film, full of clever details like this. It’s a look back at a changing time in America and a celebration of filmmaking, which itself feels like it’s facing an uncertain future.

3. Groundhog Day (1993)

Few comedies are as insightful as *Groundhog Day*. Bill Murray delivers one of his best performances as Phil Connors, a self-centered TV weatherman who, while covering the Groundhog Day event in a small Pennsylvania town, finds himself stuck in a time loop. The film essentially tells the story of a man who initially believes he’s all-powerful, then truly grows as a person and learns humility.

2. Goodfellas (1990)

As a lifelong movie fan, I still think Martin Scorsese’s *Goodfellas* is easily one of the best films of the nineties, and a truly important one at that. It’s a fascinating story of a guy, Ray Liotta (who we sadly lost), trying to make it as a gangster. One minute he’s enjoying a lavish Italian feast, the next he’s reduced to eating noodles with ketchup – it really shows how quickly things can change. Everything about the movie is just perfect: the acting, the script, the editing, the way it’s filmed, even the music. Honestly, it’s still hard to believe they gave the Best Picture Oscar to *Dances With Wolves* instead of *Goodfellas*. It just doesn’t sit right with me!

1. Hoop Dreams (1994)

The documentary *Hoop Dreams* is about far more than just basketball. It follows its subjects through high school graduation, not their final games, highlighting the bigger forces at play – as Spike Lee points out when he warns young players that the world of college basketball is driven by money. The film leaves you feeling like there are two separate games happening: the one played by the athletes on the court, and another, less fair game played by coaches and scouts behind the scenes. It makes you wonder what options William and Arthur had, and what else they could have realistically hoped for.

2025-10-17 19:43