Movies have transformed over 25 years—technology, industry shifts, and the rise of "cinematic universes" have reshaped how films are made and watched. Cinema has been declared dead and revived repeatedly. Stars and franchises have come and gone, and attention is harder to capture. Yet the power of great films endures, able to move and transform us in theaters or at home. This list of 100 movies, chosen by Rolling Stone contributors who still cherish cinema, celebrates works that reflect our humanity, ignite imagination, and remind us why we love movies—from comedies to epics.
Interesting note (if you care): only 7 of the 25 Best Picture Oscar Winners thru the 2024 films made the list (shrug):
3. Moonlight (2016)
4. Parasite (2019)
31. No Country for Old Men (2007)
34. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
38. 12 Years a Slave (2013)
86. Oppenheimer (2023)
94. The Hurt Locker (2008)
