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Best Brad Pitt Movies

Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes in Apple Original Films’ ‘F1’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Scott Garfield. Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures / Apple Original Films. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Brad Pitt is one of the last of the true movie stars!

The iconic actor became a household name with his breakout performance in ‘Thelma & Louise‘, and has since appeared in such beloved movies as ‘True Romance‘, ‘Se7en‘, ‘Fight Club‘, ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button‘, ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith‘, ‘Moneyball‘, ‘Inglourious Basterds‘, the ‘Ocean’s Eleven‘ trilogy and Quentin Tarantino‘s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood‘, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

His new film, ‘F1 The Movie‘, which is set in the world of Formula One racing and was directed by Joseph Kosinski (‘Top Gun: Maverick‘), opens in theaters on June 27th.

In honor of ‘F1’, Moviefone is counting down the 25 best films of Brad Pitt’s legendary career, including his latest.

Let’s begin!

25. ‘Bullet Train‘ (2022)

Brad Pitt stars in ‘Bullet Train.’ Photo: Scott Garfield. Copyright: 2022 CTMG. All Rights Reserved.

Unlucky assassin Ladybug (Pitt) is determined to do his job peacefully after one too many gigs gone off the rails. Fate, however, may have other plans, as Ladybug’s latest mission puts him on a collision course with lethal adversaries from around the globe—all with connected, yet conflicting, objectives—on the world’s fastest train.
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24. ‘Troy‘ (2004)

In year 1250 B.C. during the late Bronze age, two emerging nations begin to clash. Paris (Orlando Bloom), the Trojan prince, convinces Helen (Diane Kruger), Queen of Sparta, to leave her husband Menelaus (Brendan Gleeson), and sail with him back to Troy. After Menelaus finds out that his wife was taken by the Trojans, he asks his brother Agamemnon (Brian Cox) to help him get her back. Agamemnon sees this as an opportunity for power. They set off with 1,000 ships holding 50,000 Greeks to Troy.
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23. ‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford‘ (2007)

Outlaw Jesse James (Pitt) is rumored to be the ‘fastest gun in the West’. An eager recruit into James’ notorious gang, Robert Ford (Casey Affleck) eventually grows jealous of the famed outlaw and, when Robert and his brother (Sam Rockwell) sense an opportunity to kill James, their murderous action elevates their target to near mythical status.
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22. ‘Ocean’s Thirteen‘ (2007)

Danny Ocean’s (George Clooney) team of criminals are back and composing a plan more personal than ever. When ruthless casino owner Willy Bank (Al Pacino) doublecrosses Reuben Tishkoff (Elliot Gould), causing a heart attack, Danny Ocean vows that he and his team will do anything to bring down Willy Bank along with everything he’s got. Even if it means asking for help from an enemy.
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21. ‘Fury‘ (2014)

In the last months of World War II, as the Allies make their final push in the European theatre, a battle-hardened U.S. Army sergeant named ‘Wardaddy’ (Pitt) commands a Sherman tank called ‘Fury’ and its five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Outnumbered and outgunned, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their heroic attempts to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany.
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20. ‘World War Z‘ (2013)

Brad Pitt in ‘World War Z’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

Life for former United Nations investigator Gerry Lane (Pitt) and his family seems content. Suddenly, the world is plagued by a mysterious infection turning whole human populations into rampaging mindless zombies. After barely escaping the chaos, Lane is persuaded to go on a mission to investigate this disease. What follows is a perilous trek around the world where Lane must brave horrific dangers and long odds to find answers before human civilization falls.
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19. ‘Spy Game‘ (2023)

On the day of his retirement, a veteran CIA agent (Robert Redford) learns that his former protégé (Pitt) has been arrested in China, is sentenced to die the next morning in Beijing, and that the CIA is considering letting that happen to avoid an international scandal.
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18. ‘Snatch‘ (2001)

Unscrupulous boxing promoters, violent bookmakers, a Russian gangster, incompetent amateur robbers and supposedly Jewish jewelers fight to track down a priceless stolen diamond.
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17. ‘Ocean’s Twelve‘ (2004)

Despite pulling off one of the biggest heists in Las Vegas history and splitting the $160 million take, each of the infamous Ocean’s crew have tried to go straight, lay low and live a legit life … but that’s proven to be a challenge. Casino owner Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia) demands that Danny Ocean (George Clooney) return the money, plus millions more in interest. Unable to come up the cash, the crew is forced to come together to pull off another series of heists, this time in Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam – but a Europol agent is hot on their heels.
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16. ‘Legends of the Fall‘ (1995)

In early 20th-century Montana, Col. William Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins) lives on a ranch in the wilderness with his sons, Alfred (Aidan Quinn), Tristan (Pitt), and Samuel (Henry Thomas). Eventually, the unconventional but close-knit family are bound by loyalty, tested by war, and torn apart by love, as told over the course of several decades in this epic saga.
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15. ‘Interview with the Vampire‘ (1994)

(L to R) Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt in ‘Interview with the Vampire.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

A vampire (Tom Cruise) relates his epic life story of love, betrayal, loneliness, and dark hunger to an over-curious reporter.
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14. ‘Twelve Monkeys‘ (1996)

In the year 2035, convict James Cole (Bruce Willis) reluctantly volunteers to be sent back in time to discover the origin of a deadly virus that wiped out nearly all of the earth’s population and forced the survivors into underground communities. But when Cole is mistakenly sent to 1990 instead of 1996, he’s arrested and locked up in a mental hospital. There he meets psychiatrist Dr. Kathryn Railly (Madeleine Stowe) and the son of a famous virus expert (Pitt) who may hold the key to the Army of the 12 Monkeys; thought to be responsible for unleashing the killer disease.
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13. ‘Thelma & Louise‘ (1991)

Taking a break from their dreary lives, close friends Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) embark on a short weekend trip that ends in unforeseen incriminating circumstances. As fugitives, both women rediscover the strength of their bond and their newfound resilience.
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12. ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith‘ (2005)

A husband (Pitt) and wife (Angelina Jolie) struggle to keep their marriage alive until they realize they are both secretly working as assassins. Now, their respective assignments require them to kill each other.
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11. ‘True Romance‘ (1993)

Clarence (Christian Slater) marries hooker Alabama (Patricia Arquette), steals cocaine from her pimp (Gary Oldman), and tries to sell it in Hollywood, while the owners of the coke try to reclaim it.
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10. ‘F1 The Movie‘ (2025)

(L to R) Damson Idris as Joshua Pearce and Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes in Apple Original Films’ ‘F1’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Scott Garfield. Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures / Apple Original Films. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Racing legend Sonny Hayes (Pitt) is coaxed out of retirement to lead a struggling Formula 1 team—and mentor a young hotshot driver (Damson Idris), while chasing one more chance at glory.
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9. ‘Ocean’s Eleven‘ (2001)

Less than 24 hours into his parole, charismatic thief Danny Ocean (George Clooney) is already rolling out his next plan: In one night, Danny’s hand-picked crew of specialists will attempt to steal more than $150 million from three Las Vegas casinos. But to score the cash, Danny risks his chances of reconciling with ex-wife, Tess (Julia Roberts).
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8. ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button‘ (2008)

Born under unusual circumstances, Benjamin Button (Pitt) springs into being as an elderly man in a New Orleans nursing home and ages in reverse. Twelve years after his birth, he meets Daisy (Cate Blanchett), a child who flits in and out of his life as she grows up to be a dancer. Though he has all sorts of unusual adventures over the course of his life, it is his relationship with Daisy, and the hope that they will come together at the right time, that drives Benjamin forward.
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7. ‘Burn After Reading‘ (2008)

When a disc containing memoirs of a former CIA analyst (John Malkovich) falls into the hands of gym employees, Linda (Frances McDormand) and Chad (Pitt), they see a chance to make enough money for Linda to have life-changing cosmetic surgery. Predictably, events whirl out of control for the duo, and those in their orbit.
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6. ‘The Big Short‘ (2015)

The men who made millions from a global economic meltdown.
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5. ‘Moneyball‘ (2011)

Brad Pitt in ‘Moneyball’. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

The story of Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane’s (Pitt) successful attempt to put together a baseball team on a budget, by employing computer-generated analysis to draft his players.
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4. ‘Inglourious Basterds‘ (2009)

In Nazi-occupied France during World War II, a group of Jewish-American soldiers known as “The Basterds” are chosen specifically to spread fear throughout the Third Reich by scalping and brutally killing Nazis. The Basterds, lead by Lt. Aldo Raine (Pitt) soon cross paths with a French-Jewish teenage girl (Mélanie Laurent) who runs a movie theater in Paris which is targeted by the soldiers.
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3. ‘Se7en‘ (1995)

Two homicide detectives are on a desperate hunt for a serial killer (Kevin Spacey) whose crimes are based on the “seven deadly sins” in this dark and haunting film that takes viewers from the tortured remains of one victim to the next. The seasoned Det. Somerset (Morgan Freeman) researches each sin in an effort to get inside the killer’s mind, while his novice partner, Mills (Pitt), scoffs at his efforts to unravel the case.
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2. ‘Fight Club‘ (1999)

A ticking-time-bomb insomniac (Edward Norton) and a slippery soap salesman (Pitt) channel primal male aggression into a shocking new form of therapy. Their concept catches on, with underground “fight clubs” forming in every town, until an eccentric gets in the way and ignites an out-of-control spiral toward oblivion.
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1. ‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood‘ (2019)

Brad Pitt in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.’ Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

Los Angeles, 1969. TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), a struggling actor specializing in westerns, and stuntman Cliff Booth (Pitt), his best friend, try to survive in a constantly changing movie industry. Dalton is the neighbor of the young and promising actress and model Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), who has just married the prestigious Polish director Roman Polanski (Rafał Zawierucha).
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July 1, 2025
David Fincher Reportedly Directing New Western Drama ‘Bitterroot’
David Fincher on the set of ‘Mank’. Photo: Gisele Schmidt/Netflix.

Preview:
- David Fincher is reportedly aboard a new western called ‘Bitterroot’.
- Michael Gilio wrote the script, which appeared on the 2008 Black List
- Netflix has yet to confirm Fincher’s attachment.
It’s fair to say that the Western is having a mixed time in terms of success at the moment. While Taylor Sheridan’s modern-day take on the genre ‘Yellowstone’ (and its period set prequels) have been doing great business, Kevin Costner (who effectively left the parent ‘Yellowstone’ series to pursue his passion project) has seen giant Western saga ‘Horizon’ stumble at the box office, with theatrical plans for the second film in the franchise currently on hold.

Despite that, it appears David Fincher may be ready to try his hand at an oater, with What’s On Netflix reporting that he’s on board for a Western called ‘Bitterroot.’

Related Article: Movie Review: ‘The Killer’

What’s the story of ‘Bitterroot’?

‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ from Paramount Pictures and eOne.

Michael Gilio, who also wrote the script draft that got ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ into development, crafted ‘Bitterroot,’ which hit the 2008 Black List when it was originally titled ‘Big Hole.’

The movie’s premise apparently concerns an elderly rancher whose life savings have been stolen.

He sets out to get his money back by robbing banks and hunting down the thieves — all while being pursued by his son, who is the sheriff. Compelling, eh?!

Comparisons have been made to Clint Eastwood classic ‘Unforgiven,’ so even with the riskier marketplace, this is a script that will surely be mad at some point. And it’s perhaps not surprising that given its long lifespan in the Hollywood marketplace, there has been at least one previous attempt to bring it to screens. Blind Wink Productions and Aversano Films were working on it with Gilio on board to both write and direct and Gore Verbinski to produce back in 2011.

We’ll caution at this point that Netflix has yet to officially comment on the possibility, though this appears –– according to What’s On Netflix’s sources –– to be coming together quickly, with casting offers out to potential stars.

What else is Fincher developing?

(L to R) Gary Oldman and David Fincher on the set of ‘Mank’. Photo: Miles Crist/Netflix.

The ever-busy filmmaker, who last directed ‘The Killer’ for the streaming service, has a couple of other irons in the Netflix fire.
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There is a US version of ‘Squid Game’ that is awaiting approval from the company (budget issues are reportedly a sticking point, though you’ve got to imagine Netflix would look to get this made given the original series’ popularity).

And also? Fincher has been circling a ‘Chinatown’ prequel series that would follow the story before the classic movie.

On the movie front, the director has an untitled crime thriller at an early stage of development, but details are naturally scarce.

(L to R) David Fincher and Gary Oldman on the set of ‘Mank’. Photo: Miles Crist/Netflix.

Other David Fincher Movies:
- ‘Alien³‘ (1992)
- ‘Se7en‘ (1995)
- ‘The Game‘ (1997)
- ‘Fight Club‘ (1999)
- ‘Panic Room‘ (2002)
- ‘Zodiac‘ (2007)
- ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button‘ (2008)
- ‘The Social Network‘ (2010)
- ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo‘ (2011)
- ‘Gone Girl‘ (2014)
- ‘Mank‘ (2020)
- ‘The Killer‘ (2023)
Buy David Fincher Movies on Amazon
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September 6, 2024
Movie Review: ‘The Killer’
Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

On Netflix beginning November 10th, ‘The Killer’ marks David Fincher’s latest collaboration with the streaming service, a methodical revenge thriller that sees Michael Fassbender as the title figure, a man on a mission after his latest job goes awry.

As per usual with Fincher, this is as carefully constructed as its central character, though it might leave some wishing for a little more excitement in places.

Does ‘The Killer’ Hit its Target?

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Cr. Netflix ©2023.

The last time David Fincher shot something for big (and ultimately small, given Netflix’s cinema-then-server policy with its big movie scores), we got ‘Mank,’ which felt like something different for the director.

That one was bursting with huge personalities, a romantic storyline and a compelling if cynical love for old Hollywood. For ‘The Killer’ however, Fincher has dialed the needle back to his more usual stock-in trade, cold-blooded, full-power cynicism.

This is a man, after all, who made the likes of ‘Se7en’, ‘Fight Club’ and ‘The Social Network’, which all blended his rigorous approach to filmmaking with compelling characters at their heart. Michael Fassbender’s unnamed central figure here just about fits into that category with his various quirks and occupational theorizing –– you might find yourself, however wishing for something more to connect to.

Related Article: ‘The Killer’ Teaser

‘The Killer’: Script and Direction

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Cr. Netflix ©2023.

‘The Killer’ reunites Fincher with one of his best collaborators, Andrew Kevin Walker, who wrote the screenplay for ‘Seven’. The pair relishes the chances to take another shot at poking around the darker, grubbier corners of life. Though their previous team-up focused on the law enforcement side of things, this new outing is firmly on the side of someone breaking the rules, albeit with his own strict code.

Walker’s script is precise and darkly funny in its way, primarily comprised of internal monologues from Fassbender’s fastidious assassin, who has several repeating mantras, including about anticipating not improvising, and how empathy is weakness.

While we spend most of our time with the character, there are the bursts of activity once his latest job goes bad and the repercussions hit close to home for him (though you do find yourself wondering why someone who seems to against connections in the world because of the baggage they bring was able to make some).

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

And as usual with David Fincher, the direction is beyond reproach, starkly color washed and full of interest in every frame. As Fassbender’s killer goes globe-trotting on his vengeful quest, we’re treated to some fantastic sights, including fancy restaurants and a billionaire’s very private (though not quite enough) penthouse.

He finds a way to bring the character’s world to life with his usual dark vibrancy, all metallic sheen and well-composed frames. Not a shot is wasted, and the craft at work is clear. The idea that the killer uses music from The Smiths to blot out the distractions of the world is an interesting one (perhaps, given his pessimistic worldview these days, Morrissey might even appreciate it) and adds another subtle layer of humor.

The director’s regular musical team Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross meanwhile, provide a subtle score that complements the visuals.

‘The Killer’: Performances

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

Michael Fassbender is at the core of this film, his dry (by choice and need) delivery of the killer’s monologues given just the right amount of snark. And when called upon to show his particular set of skills, the actor (who was lured out if a long break from acting for this juicy role) is more than up to the task, watchable when in silent preparation for an assassination or throwing down with a hulking henchman.

There’s also the chance for him to face off against some great actors, his encounter with Charles Parnell’s lawyer/boss/mentor figure one for the ages and, without giving too much away, involving creative use of a nail gun.

Tilda Swinton as The Expert in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

Tilda Swinton, meanwhile, is able to prove she’s still among the best, interacting with our man in more cerebral fashion, telling a solid joke about a hunter and a bear and ultimately coming across perfectly as someone who has found that putting their morals and ethics aside was surprisingly easy when the pay is right.

Elsewhere, the smaller roles are effectively filled, even as you mostly just view them in relation to Fassbender. As he tends to, the director has a good eye for interesting people in supporting roles, filling out the world in such a way as you believe it.

‘The Killer’ Final Thoughts

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

This new David Fincher movie will certainly please his regular fans, even if it doesn’t always quite live up to the standards of previous work. There’s a cold aloofness here that might also turn off more casual viewers (though if you’re sitting down to watch a movie called ‘The Killer’, you likely know what you’re in for).

The opening segment (the movie is split into neatly organized chapters, which would surely appeal to the persnickety pistol packer) at its heart is entertaining but does require a patience level as high as our antihero, since it truly takes its time to get to the point.

Still, if we can’t have more ‘Mindhunter’ on Netflix, at least it’s reassuring to know that David Fincher is keeping busy, and this also represents a welcome return for Michael Fassbender. Completely on target? Not always, but certainly well aimed for the most part.

‘The Killer’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.
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What’s the story of ‘The Killer’?

An unnamed man in unremarkable clothes, The Killer (Michael Fassbender) watches from the floor of an empty office, across from the plush apartment of his target, rifle at hand. Measured, controlled, he takes every step to ensure the job goes flawlessly…

It doesn’t.

The Killer flees, following his strict personal mantra of dispassionate action. But his employers want him erased. By attacking his home, they disturb his sanctuary and, with it, his sense of self. This – he will not abide, traveling through the Dominican Republic and the United States, eliminating anyone who might disrupt his hard-won peace again.

Who else is in ‘The Killer’?

‘The Killer’ also stars Charles Parnell, Arliss Howard, Sophie Charlotte, Kerry O’Malley, Emiliano Pernía, Sala Baker and Tilda Swinton.

Michael Fassbender as an assassin in ‘The Killer.’ Photo: Netflix ©2023.

Other Movies Similar to ‘The Killer:’
- ‘The Killer‘ (1989)
- ‘La Femme Nikita‘ (1991)
- ‘Léon: The Professional‘ (1994)
- ‘Assassins‘ (1995)
- ‘Grosse Pointe Blank‘ (1997)
- ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1‘ (2003)
- ‘Collateral‘ (2004)
- ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith‘ (2005)
- ‘Hitman‘ (2007)
- ‘The American‘ (2010)
- ‘The Mechanic‘ (2011)
- ‘John Wick‘ (2014)
- ‘Assassin’s Creed‘ (2016)
- ‘Atomic Blonde‘ (2017)
- ‘American Assassin‘ (2017)
- ‘John Wick: Chapter 2‘ (2017)
- ‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard‘ (2017)
- ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum‘ (2019)
- ‘John Wick: Chapter 4‘ (2023)
Buy Michael Fassbender Movies On Amazon
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November 11, 2023
Meat Loaf Dies at 74

Meat Loaf in ‘Fight Club’ (1999)

His name was Robert Paulson.

That might not mean as much to those who haven’t compulsively watched David Fincher’s ‘Fight Club’ (1999), but it’s a testament to the lasting impact of a great supporting performance from one of the most memorable people to have straddled the worlds of music and movies. Meat Loaf, the singer behind such hits as ‘Bat Out Of Hell’ and ‘I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)’, who forged a successful career as a character actor, has died at the age of 74.

Born Marvin Lee Aday in Dallas, Texas in 1947, he claimed that his father nicknamed him “Meat” because of his chunky size at just a few days old. He had a troubled upbringing – his dad was a violent drunk and his mother died of cancer when Aday was 18.

Following an accident in which a shot put landed on his head, Aday discovered a three-and-a-half-octave vocal range, and, after his mother’s death, he headed to Los Angeles to seek a career in showbusiness. He formed a group called Meat Loaf Soul and opened for acts including Taj Mahal and Janis Joplin, but ironically, it was performing on stage in the musical ‘Hair’ that moved his singing career along. Another theatre job, a production of Jim Steinman’s ‘More Than You Deserve’ also boosted his profile and launched a partnership that would last through much of his career.

With Steinman’s ear for a catchy tune and Meat Loaf’s operatic style, the stage was set for numerous hits, even if it took a while for general audiences to appreciate his unique abilities and grandioso performances.

Meat Loaf also started acting relatively early, and his cinematic resume is a collection of interesting jobs. He broke out playing ill-fated delivery boy Eddie in ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ (1975) opposite the likes of Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Richard O’Brien, the latter of whom created the original stage play and co-wrote the screenplay. ‘Rocky Horror’ was perfectly suited to Meat’s OTT persona, though he could also deliver work that was subtle and nuanced when the moment called for it.
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He became known for his work in cult movies such as ‘Motorama’ (1991), ‘Crazy In Alabama’ (1999), ‘Formula 51’ (2001) and ‘Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny’ (2006).

Yet, alongside ‘Rocky Horror’, and a small role in ‘Wayne’s World’ (1992) he might be best remembered for ‘Fight Club’, in which he played Robert “Bitch Tits” Paulson, an overweight, loyal member of Project Mayhem. A former bodybuilder whose use of steroids led to testicular cancer, the character of Paulson is a definite highlight of the movie.

Meat Loaf even began spending time with Fincher and ended up helping him select takes from the director’s famously voluminous footage. “The first time he did that, I said, ‘I can’t do that,’ and he goes, ‘Yeah, you can. You’ve been sitting next to me, so help me pick out the best one,’” Meat Loaf told The AV Club in 2016. “His average take was 44, so we’d sit there and watch 40 takes, and he’d go, ‘Which one did you like the best,’ and I’d say something like, ‘Well, it’s either 24 or 26,’ and he’d say, ‘I agree with you, 26.’”

His movie career might not be as giant as his contributions to music, but a vast majority of films feature his songs. He’ll go down as one of the most iconic singers in history, and a firm favorite on the acting front.
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January 21, 2022
The 15 Greatest Movies of 1999, 20 Years Later

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September 11, 2019
23 ’90s Movies You Pray to God They Never Remake

20th Century Fox

With Disney rebooting nearly all of its beloved ’90s animated classics and even lesser-known movies like the thriller “Fear” getting remade, we have to wonder, what’s next?

Here, in no particular order, are some of the sacred movies we’re telling producers: “Hands off!” (We’re working under the assumption that no one would attempt to remake a Scorsese, Tarantino, Spike Lee or Coen Bros. movie. One day, we might be wrong.)

1. “Speed” (1994)

20th Century Fox

25 years later, we still love the chemistry between Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. (There’s a reason for that.) And given the famously awful sequel (sans Keanu), we can only imagine how terrible a remake would be. Remember how that “Point Break” remake worked out? Yeah, that’s how you get a Sad Keanu.

2. “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)

Touchstone Pictures

The more we watch this movie, the more we love this cast. From a dancing-and-singing Heath Ledger, to a badass Julia Stiles, to baby-faced Joseph Gordon-Levitt, to porn-writing guidance counselor Allison Janney, who could fill those shoes? A short-lived TV series (starring Ethan Peck as Patrick Verona!) is proof this was best left alone.

3. “Clueless” (1995)

Paramount Pictures

As if someone could attempt to make a high school movie as perfect. One that we still quote on a regular basis. Reminder: “It does not say RSVP on the Statue of Liberty.” (Sure, several of the cast returned for the TV series, but it just wasn’t the same without Alicia Silverstone as Cher.)

4. “Fight Club” (1999)

20th Century Fox

On of the lesser-known “Fight Club” rules is YOU DO NOT REMAKE FIGHT CLUB. (Or “Seven,” for that matter.)

5. “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)

Columbia Pictures

Imagine an amused Morgan Freeman slowly shaking his head and telling you (from a much later movie): “Good luck with that.”

6. “Heat” (1995)

Warner Bros.

Trying to top Robert De Niro, and Al Pacino, that breathtaking daylight bank robbery scene and Dante Spinotti’s cinematography? To quote Pacino’s cranky cop character, Vincent Hanna, “Don’t waste my ****ing time.” Arguably Michael Mann‘s best film.

7. “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992)

20th Century Fox

Another Michael Mann masterpiece that wasn’t properly recognized at the time (it received just one Oscar nomination, for Best Sound, which it won). We’re here for the sweeping action scenes, the swoon-worthy “I will find you!” Daniel Day Lewis and Madeleine Stowe romance, and that stunning final sequence. If it came out today, surely Mann, Day-Lewis, Stowe, Spinotti and Wes Studi would all get Oscar noms.

8. “Tombstone” (1993)

Buena Vista Pictures

Sure, “Unforgiven” won the Best Picture Oscar the year before, but this is the ’90s western we love to watch over and over. Other actors have played Doc Holliday in different movies, but Val Kilmer will always be (you knew this was coming) our huckleberry.

9. “The Matrix” (1999)

Warner Bros.

There has been talk of a remake … except it’s more of a sequel. Or a reboot? And may or may not star Michael B. Jordan. And while we’re sure Killmonger would kill it, it would be damn hard to follow Keanu’s Neo. The existing sequels have their fans, but nothing can touch the mind-blowing impact of the first film and its revolutionary special effects.

10. “Léon: The Professional” (1994)

Gaumont Buena Vista International

No, sir, we do not want a remake of this gonzo Luc Besson action film. (We pity the person having to one-up Gary Oldman‘s crazed, Beethoven-loving corrupt cop.) But we will take a sequel with a grown-up Natalie Portman as a cleaner. Please and thank you.

11. “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991)

Orion

Even with Anthony Hopkins back on board, subsequent films about Hannibal Lecter, including “Hannibal” and “Red Dragon,” completely failed to match this Oscar-sweeping horror classic. (Jodie Foster notably refused to reprise her role as Clarice Starling in “Hannibal.”) We do, however, recommend Michael Mann’s “Manhunter,” a previous telling of “Red Dragon” with Brian Cox as a far more low-key cannibal.

12. “The Usual Suspects” (1995)

Gramercy Pictures

This twisty crime drama remains one of the ’90s most perfect movies. (Despite the now-toxic duo of director Bryan Singer and Oscar winner Kevin Spacey.)

13. “Face/Off” (1997)

Paramount Pictures

In John Woo‘s gloriously over-the-top action flick, John Travolta and Nicolas Cage swap faces and lives — and get a change to send up each other’s acting tics. It’s a nutso concept that both actors commit to fully and we couldn’t love them more for it.

14. “Thelma & Louise” (1991)

MGM

A remake with “Fast and the Furious” badass Michelle Rodriguez and Cara Delevingne was (very sketchily) rumored around 2014, but never happened. Plus, with her driving skills (and a more than a decade of crazy “Furious” stunts) Letty Ortiz might just that get Thunderbird all the way over the Grand Canyon. We’ll just enjoy the original and its “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” ending.

15. “A League of Their Own” (1992)

Columbia Pictures

We all know there’s no crying in baseball and there’s no matching this stellar line-up. And would you disrespect Penny Marshall‘s memory like that?

16. “My Cousin Vinny” (1992)

20th Century Fox

The odds of a remake of this comedy classic being good are about as likely as two sets of “youts” driving nearly identical metallic, mint-green cars and stopping at the Sac-O-Suds convenience store.

17. “True Romance” (1993)

Warner Bros.

It’s not just the two leads who make this pulp movie work, it’s that fantastic supporting cast: a pre-“Sopranos” James Gandolfini, Gary Oldman, Brad Pitt, Christopher Walken and Dennis Hopper. Tarantino wrote it and Tony Scott directed it and that’s a combo you’re never going to get again.

18. “The Wedding Singer” (1998)

New Line Cinema

We know this much is true: A redo of our favorite Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore romantic comedy would make Robbie Hart cry (and possibly upset Billy Idol). And it already inspired a Broadway musical, so I think we’re good here.

19. “Galaxy Quest” (1999)

DreamWorks

A planned sequel to this hilarious space spoof, alas, died with Alan Rickman. By Grabthar’s Hammer, we would not suffer a remake. Now let’s get out of here before one of those things kills Guy!

20. “The Rock” (1996)

Buena Vista Pictures

Thanks to the brilliant match-up of Nicolas Cage (as a nerdy chemical “superfreak”) and Sean Connery (as an unjustly imprisoned spy), this remains the best Michael Bay movie ever. This action film about retaking Alcatraz from mercenaries is insanely entertaining and eminently rewatchable. With these two riffing off each other between the 360-degree hero shots, we couldn’t love it more.

21. “Misery” (1990)

Columbia Pictures

We’re getting a “Misery”-themed second season of “Castle Rock,” and that’s all the remake we’ll ever need. Annie Wilkes would’t be happy with a remake, would she?

22. “Groundhog Day” (1993)

Columbia Pictures

Bill Murray himself approved of the 2016 stage musical, but when it comes to a cinematic redo of this time-loop comedy? No thank you. We will just appreciate the homage in movies like “Happy Death Day” and “Edge of Tomorrow” that take their cue from this classic.

23. “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993)

20th Century Fox

A stage musical is in the works, but a movie remake without Robin Williams would be more dreadful than a drive-by fruiting.

August 22, 2019
Our Favorite Brad Pitt Movie Team-Ups (Besides ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’)

Sony

Sure, Brad Pitt is one of the biggest movie stars in the world, but he’s not selfish. He loves to share the screen. The dream pairing of him and Leonardo DiCaprio makes Quentin Tarantino‘s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” kind of, well, a buddy comedy.

Here are some of our other favorite Pitt movie team-ups.

Leonardo DiCaprio in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019)

Sony

Washed up western star Rick Calton (DiCaprio) doesn’t really appreciate best friend Cliff Booth (Pitt) enough. He’s Rick’s stunt double, chauffeur, all-around-handyman and bucker-upper. Cliff’s got it rough too (he’s living in a trailer, not a Hollywood Hills mansion), but he’s dealing with the end of his glory days better than Rick. A lot better.

George Clooney in “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001)

Warner Bros.

The Danny and Rusty friendship is the heart of the “Ocean’s” films. (Remember when they both got choked up over Oprah?) And fun trivia: This scene from the first film, where they plot out their big Vegas heist, takes place in the exact same real-life Hollywood location, Musso & Frank, as in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” They’re even sitting in the exact same spot at the bar. Cheers.

Edward Norton in “Fight Club” (1999)

20th Century Fox

In this darkly funny David Fincher film we can’t watch enough, Tyler Durden and “Cornelius” (as Norton’s name badge reads at one of his support group meetings) have a very tricky, complicated relationship. Tyler is everything Norton’s character wants to be: Handsome, stylish, anarchic, and a born leader. (Also, abs for days.) Together, they start Fight Club and blow stuff up. Including our minds.

Morgan Freeman in “Seven” (1995)

New Line Cinema

Freeman is William Somerset, the jaded cop who’s close to retirement, Pitt is David Mills, the eager young hot-shot who is in way over his head. Somerset tries to be the voice of caution and reason, but this case ends in … well, one of the grimmest finales ever. Imagine a movie where the two just hang out, have dinner, do research, and nobody’s loved ones get murdered. We’d still totally watch that.

Eli Roth in “Inglourious Basterds” (2009)

Universal Pictures

Aldo Raine (Pitt) and Donny “The Bear Jew” Donowitz (Roth) have the Third Reich on the run as they roam the German countryside, “killing Nat-zees” in Tarantino’s so-not-based-on-real-events World War II film. Their Italian might be a little weak and their big plan a little reckless, but hell if it doesn’t work.

Tom Cruise in “Interview With the Vampire” (1994)

Warner Bros.

Imagine getting these two superstars back onscreen today. Cruise’s casting as flamboyant blond vampire Lestat was widely criticized at the time (author Anne Rice objected strongly, then praised him when the film came out.) Louis is arguably Pitt’s most passive role — Lestat is the drama queen here — but we enjoy watching them bicker and brood.

Jason Statham in “Snatch” (2000)

Screen Gems

We don’t know what the heck Pitt’s unintelligible bare-knuckle boxer Mickey is saying most of the time in this underrated Guy Ritchie film and neither does boxing promoter Turkish (Statham). But we know Mickey can fight and Turkish can talk his way out of just about any situation. And that’s all that matters.

Jonah Hill in “Moneyball” (2011)

Columbia Pictures

Former baseball player Billy Beane (Pitt) is having a losing season as general manager of the Oakland Athletics. Can a radical new approach from a young Yale econ grad (Hill) change the game? In real life, this team changed the sport forever. And the movie earned Oscar noms for both Pitt and Hill. Double play.

Frances McDormand in “Burn After Reading” (2008)

Not-too-bright gym employees Linda Litzke (McDormand) and Chad Feldheimer (Pitt) see a chance for some big money when a CD containing an ex-CIA agent’s memoir falls into their hands in this terrific, lesser-seen Coen Bros. film. It’s a pairing we absolutely love.

July 31, 2019
The 11 Most Overrated Movies of the ’90s

Some movies hold up better than others. But once you look at them through nostalgia-free eyes, you may realize the films you gave two thumbs up to are really worth two thumbs down. Here are the ’90s most overrated movies.

‘Robin Hood: Men in Tights’ (1993)

‘Forrest Gump’ (1994)

“The English Patient” (1996)

‘Independence Day’ (1996)

‘Chasing Amy’ (1997)

‘Titanic’ (1997)

‘American History X’ (1998)

‘Shakespeare in Love’ (1998)

‘American Beauty’ (1999)

Franchise Pictures/Indican Pictures

‘Fight Club’ (1999)

July 19, 2018
Top Movies That Totally Flopped at the Box Office
Ah, youth. The days when you reveled in your dorm room and feasted on delicacies like hair dryer-warmed pizza or ramen gently braised over a light bulb. Your bank account might’ve been empty, but you still managed to feed your soul with the deepest of lessons: Money isn’t everything.

And you weren’t alone when enlightenment struck. Since Hollywood’s golden age, plenty of movies that had hard-knock openings later blossomed into beloved cinematic staples or legit cult classics. Here are just a few, in all their flop-to-favorite glory.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ (1946)

Unthinkable as it seems, “It’s a Wonderful Life” was not having a very wonderful life at all in 1946. Though award season was kind to the movie, audiences just weren’t feeling its darker themes, and RKO Pictures wasn’t feeling the money — “Life” lost about $525,000 at the box office.

Ultimately, this James Stewart-flavored slice of Americana owes its iconic status to two big “Fs”: flukes and forgetfulness. In 1974, National Telefilm Associates straight-up forgot to renew the movie’s copyright, which landed the film in the public domain and opened the floodgates for just about any cheapskate distributor or network to air the flick or release it on home video without paying royalties. After a while, you couldn’t sled down a hill during the holiday season without bumping in to George Bailey. As Frank Capra himself told The Chicago Tribune in 1985, “It’s the damnedest thing …”

‘The Big Lebowski’ (1998)

The box office slaughter: In 1998, “The Big Lebowski” was basically a gutterball when it debuted with a $5.5 million opening on a $15 million budget. Outlets like Variety called it “hollow and without resonance.”

The cult-tastic happy ending: Every college sophomore you’ve ever known can quote every single line of dialogue from this movie. Oh, and the movie has its own religion — yes, ordained Dudeist priests are legally allowed to preside over wedding ceremonies in the United States.

It. Has. Its. Own. Religion.

The Dude doesn’t just abide; the Dude wins.

‘Blade Runner’ (1982)

Are opening-weekend losses to the tune of $6.5 million worth being listed on the National Film Registry? That’s the question “Blade Runner” has to ask itself when it wakes up every morning. Nowadays, movie buffs and midnight theaters worship at the altar of the seminal sci-fi’s impeccable production design, heady narrative, and deeply influential neo-noir tone. But in the summer of 1982, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” ate Ridley Scott‘s synth-infused, neon-soaked lunch. Somewhere, Harrison Ford wiped away his tears with $1,000 bills.

‘Fight Club’ (1999)

Apparently, audiences in 1999 took the whole “You do not talk about Fight Club” thing a little too seriously — the theatrical silence was deafening as David Fincher‘s brutal, anti-consumerism satire bled out $26 million at the box office.

But if the box-office numbers are a schlubby, IKEA-obsessed Jack, the home video market turned out to be the movie’s uber-sexy Tyler Durden when Fox raked in more than $100 million in video sales. Like the man said, “You are not your job. You are not your khakis. You are not your box office receipts.”

Something like that, anyway.

‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939)

“Waterworld.” “Green Lantern.” “The Wizard of Oz.” “John Carter.”

“One of these things is not like the other/One of these things just doesn’t belong,” you sing to your computer screen as everybody looks at you like you’re a weirdo. But you’d be oh-so-strangely wrong — all of these things are the same.

Just like its mega-flop friends, “Wizard” was a mega-budget fantasy — Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s highest budgeted film ever, in 1939 — with through-the-roof expectations from its studio. And just like the much more recent “Green Lantern” and “John Carter,” those factors got stirred into a cocktail of immense disappointment as MGM saw $1.1 million dollars — the equivalent of almost $19 million in 2016 — blow down the Yellow Brick Road.

The difference is, no one’s going to buy commemorative “Waterworld” porcelain plates with Kevin Costner‘s mug on them in 70 years. But your aunt already has eight of them emblazoned with Judy Garland — they just go so well with the Toto Christmas ornament and the Tin Man throw blanket and the Wicked Witch of the West tote bag.

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June 6, 2016
19 Sacred ’90s Movies That Hollywood Should Never Remake

%Slideshow-371057%As we get farther and farther from the ’90s, it’s inevitable that we’ll see more remakes — or reboots — of movies we loved from that decade.

We all saw how the “Point Break” remake went, and, well, yeah, we wouldn’t wish that fate on any of our favorite films. So we’re telling Hollywood to leave beloved ’90s films such as “Titanic” and “Pretty Woman” alone.

We’re happy to watch these films over and over and over as they are, so please, no remakes!

March 10, 2016