Film has a unique ability to shape culture and society, from the early days of silent films to the present-day blockbusters, cinema has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide and has influenced their thoughts, opinions, and behaviours.
With that being said, check out our list of must-watch films, and why they are so iconic!
What is the Impact of Film?
Film is key in capturing the zeitgeist of a specific era; reflecting the values, struggles, and aspirations of society. Moreover, films address social issues, challenge norms and inspire change. From the civil rights movement to environmental activism, films have played a huge role in raising awareness and influencing public opinion. In other words, they unite people in a common sense of humanity and shared responsibility.
Top 20 Iconic Films
Here are our picks, specifically tailored towards the best films to analyse and study for film students:
1) “The Godfather” (1972) – Francis Ford Coppola
This is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and the use of lighting to convey mood. It is often regarded as the pinnacle of filmmaking.
2) “Citizen Kane” (1941) – Orson Welles
Often considered the greatest film ever made, with its timeless themes on moneyed US society, the press, and the individual. It’s known for its innovative use of deep focus, narrative structure, and camera angles.
3) “Psycho” (1960) – Alfred Hitchcock
A staple in horror because of how it was shot and released, introducing new levels of psychological depth and shock value.
4) “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) – Stanley Kubrick
A visionary science fiction film, groundbreaking for its use of special effects and ambiguous narrative. The narrative was linear, but radically, spanning aeons and ending in a timeless realm.
5) “Casablanca” (1942) – Michael Curtiz
A classic of Hollywood cinema, praised for its screenplay, iconic performances, and exploration of wartime morality. Its powerful storyline with characters easy to relate to has made it still relevant to this day.
6) “Pulp Fiction” (1994) – Quentin Tarantino
This revolutionised narrative structure, with its non-linear storytelling and blend of genres, revitalised indie cinema. It famously drew on numerous aspects of pop culture and has an iconic soundtrack, striking cinematography and clever dialogue.
7) “Apocalypse Now” (1979) – Francis Ford Coppola
A powerful exploration of the horrors of war and the human psyche, known for its ambitious direction and sound design. From the psychedelic imagery to the haunting climax, it still retains the power to scare and enthral audiences today.
8) “The Birth of a Nation” (1915) – D.W. Griffith
The most controversial film in Hollywood history, pivotal in developing narrative cinema and cross-cutting techniques.
9) “The 400 Blows” (1959) – François Truffaut
A defining film of the French New Wave, showcasing a new style of personal, auteur-driven cinema. The ending is one of the most influential and memorable moments, despite its ambiguity.
10) “La Dolce Vita” (1960) – Federico Fellini
Capturing the existential angst and hedonism of post-war Europe, influential for its narrative structure. The plot delves into the nature of desire, pleasure, and the search for meaning in life.
11) “Alien” (1979) – Ridley Scott
A visual masterpiece, from miniatures to matte paintings, it argues against the reliance studios have on CGI in the modern era of cinema.
12) “The Shining” (1980) – Stanley Kubrick
Renowned for its use of innovative film techniques, such as long takes and slow zooms, contributing to its unsettling atmosphere and psychological horror. The incredible set design and cinematography created scenes which broke cinematic boundaries.
13) “Vertigo” (1958) – Alfred Hitchcock
A psychological thriller which explores themes of obsession and identity with complex visual symbolism. With groundbreaking use of the camera to stimulate the feeling of vision distortion from dizziness.
14) “Goodfellas” (1990) – Martin Scorsese
One of the first films to depict the ruthlessness of the gangster lifestyle, this is a masterclass in utilising freeze frames, voiceover narration, and long tracking shots to create iconic and unforgettable scenes.
15) “Battleship Potemkin” (1925) – Sergei Eisenstein
A seminal work of Soviet montage theory, the “Odessa Steps” sequence is one of the most studied scenes in cinema history. Ranked the eleventh-best film of all time in 2016.
16) “Schindler’s List” (1993) – Steven Spielberg
A powerful and harrowing film which uses a range of techniques to tell the story of the Holocaust, it also shaped filmmaking and public consciousness of the genocide.
17) “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – Frank Darabont
Famous for its iconic use of voiceover narration, and framing, this is a powerful tale of hope, friendship, and redemption.
18) “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975) – Miloš Forman
Uses a range of film techniques to explore themes of power, control, individuality, and rebellion within the confines of a mental institution, it is a reflection of changing thoughts, mores and values.
19) “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (1966) – Sergio Leone
With its magical union of distinctive characters, music, and cinematography all adding up to create an unforgettable picture.
20) “Reservoir Dogs” (1992) – Quentin Tarantino
Although controversial at first for its depictions of violence, this film is iconic for its use of plot twists, structural turns, and shifting time-frames. All of which went against the grain of generic crime stories.
What are Film Techniques?
Here are five impactful filming techniques which have had a huge influence on cinema. These techniques are essential for filmmakers and their ability to create powerful, memorable moments:
- Long Take (Continuous Shot): This is a single, unbroken shot which lasts longer than the typical shot duration in a film. The main purpose of this is to instil suspense into a scene.
- Deep Focus: This is a technique used in scenes where there is significant activity in both the front and background of the frame. Allowing the audience to see and interpret multiple layers of action and meaning within a single frame.
- Montage: A series of short shots edited together to convey complex ideas/emotions quickly, often used to show the passage of time or a build-up of events. A combination of shots to tell a story chronologically, juxtapose images to produce an impression, or to illustrate an association of ideas.
- Slow Motion: A technique where action is shown slower than normal speed, this is usually done to emphasise a moment, create a dreamlike atmosphere, or simply showcase something cool happening.
- Tracking Shot (Dolly Shot): A shot where the camera moves smoothly alongside or toward a subject, often using a dolly. The purpose of this is to run an uninterrupted shot for an extended amount of time, it can be used to convey emotion, further the story, and bring the viewer on a journey along with the characters on screen.
Why Study Film Studies?
Film studies give students a comprehensive understanding of one of the most influential art forms of the modern age. It teaches critical thinking and analytical skills, by understanding the range of techniques used by filmmakers to convey messages, evoke emotions, and influence audiences. It also provides insight into various cultures, historical contexts, and societal issues, enhancing global awareness and cultural sensitivity.
Film Studies encourages students to explore their own creative potential. Whether through filmmaking, screenwriting, or visual design, students learn how to express ideas and tell stories. The skills gained in film studies are transferable to a wide range of careers, beyond filmmaking, some potential career options include marketing, media, education, and cultural management.
Where can I Study Film?
If you fancy a career in the film industry, Access Creative College is the perfect place to start your journey!
We have a Level 3 Film, Photography and Videography course where you will develop all of the technical skills needed to create your very own unique content. By developing practical skills, understanding theory, mastering camera techniques, and exploring the industry’s brief process, this course will set you up to be an iconic filmmaker!
Don’t worry, there’s still time to apply now for September 2024!
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