Dear You,
I really want to share with you my favourite movies of all time. To be quite honest, I’m not a true cinephile or whatever. The number of films I’ve seen in my life by far is limited. However, I do enjoy a weird little flick! Every now and then an unpleasant atmosphere on a screen calls my name like a wolf in the night. Picking only 10 movies was obviously a difficult task to do. There are some childhood favourites like Cars 2, Mr. Bean’s Holiday, and The Great Mouse Detective, which will always be very dear to me. But I had to make some choices and leave them out this time around. So, here is my official list. My 10 favourite films of all time:
10. Climax (2018) – Gaspar Noé
This is one of the most uncomfortable experiences I’ve ever had. And I love it. The opening dance scene is one for the history books. The amount of talent showcased in those five minutes set such a strong base for the rest of the film. The atmosphere this film was able to create sucked me in. It’s as if I was there, tripping, suffering. A big recommendation for all dance lovers and those who seek something unsettling!
9. Brazil (1985) – Terry Gilliam
When I clicked on this movie, I had zero expectations for the next 2 hours and 40 minutes. Brazil ended up being a fantastical, dystopian story with the most amazing set design. This movie was excellent socio-political commentary which continues to resonate with me from one year to the next. The ending of this film.. just wow.
8. Conclave (2024) – Edward Berger
There might be some recency bias that I’m experiencing with this one, but nonetheless this is a magnificent piece of film. Such a well-rounded story about faith and it struggle with one’s relationship to God. I read Robert Harris’ original book after I had seen the film, and I do agree that the film missed some nuances here and there. Despite those minor notes, Conclave resonated with my non-Catholic worldview.
7. The Shining (1980) – Stanley Kubrick
I don’t have a lot to say about this one. It is just peak Kubrick to me. The set design and how the hotel is depicted as this living force is immaculate. The feelings of fear and anger come through the screen and capture the viewer with ease. Truly an iconic piece of film history. I never get tired of thinking about this one.
6. Operation Hyacinth (2021) – Piotr Domalewski
Truly harrowing. My heart breaks every time I watch this. And I never get tired of watching… Everything looks gorgeous, the harsh Polish winter really speaks to me. This film works so well. The subject in question if tough, but really worth looking into. Alongside The Shining, Operation Hyacinth is a wonderfully freezing piece of cinema.
5. It Couldn’t Happen Here (1987) – Jack Bond
Honestly, this film is not that good. There isn’t really a plot, but it is rather about the vibes. And the vibes are, confusing. This is strangeness at its best. If you love Pet Shop Boys like I do, then do please watch this. Good music and odd scenes. The lyrics to It’s A Sin, spoken like a poem haunt me.
4. Amélie (2001) – Jean-Pierre Jeunet
This was one of the first films where I saw a character that I could truly relate to. And still to this day, Amélie Poulain is one of those funky women whom I connect with. This movies soundtrack has accompanied me through many years, and I often return to this film with a smile. Amélie reminds me of all the good that is in life. It motivates me and tells me to enjoy the little things.
3. Good Bye Lenin! (2003) – Wolfgang Becker
There’s some strange magic in this one. I’ve always been interested in the Cold War and the division of Germany, and this movie is an essential piece of fiction for anyone with the same interests. Daniel Brühl is fantastic as always. Yann Tiersen’s music works in Amélie and it works here too!
2. Suspiria (1977) – Dario Argento
I have come to the conclusion that Argento might be my favourite director. And from his catalogue Suspiria speaks to me the most. Perhaps it’s the dance aspect again! This gorgeous piece of cinema makes me realize why I love films. Of course, the dubbing feels strange but once you get used to it, this really is some fine horror. And I rarely enjoy supernatural things!
- Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) – Jim Sharman
Wow, this one. To simply say, I can watch this film time and time again. Rocky Horror really hits the spot. This film is one of the most important pieces of queer cinema, and I never hesitate to recommend this to people. I never get tired of the lowkey shitty songs and the wacky story. Everything in this just works for me.
And that’s it for now. These are my favourites as of 2026. Next up I’m really looking forward to exploring female directors and non-western cinema. I’m always up for some weird horror, dancing and queerness. So, do not expect me to watch American CIA funded action blockbusters. Bye.
<3 Noora
Leave a Reply