30 Best-Rated Movies from 2015

2015 was a fantastic year for movies, offering a little something for everyone. From epic sci-fi adventures that took us to galaxies far, far away to gripping dramas that explored the depths of human emotion, the big screen was buzzing with creativity. It was a year where both blockbuster franchises and independent films shone brightly, giving us plenty of memorable stories and characters. Whether you were in the mood for action, a good laugh, or a thought-provoking tale, 2015 delivered in a big way.

Looking back, it’s clear that many of the films released this year have stood the test of time, becoming modern classics. The variety was incredible, with critically acclaimed animations, intense thrillers, and powerful true stories all making their mark. These films not only entertained audiences but also sparked conversations and garnered numerous awards. It was a year that reminded us of the magic of cinema and its ability to transport us to different worlds and perspectives.

‘Inside Out’ (2015)

This animated feature from Pixar takes a journey into the mind of a young girl named Riley. Her world is turned upside down when her family moves to a new city, and her five core emotions Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust have to navigate the change. The film cleverly personifies these feelings as they work together in the headquarters of Riley’s mind. It was directed by Pete Docter and Ronnie Del Carmen and features the voices of Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, and Bill Hader.

‘Inside Out’ was widely praised for its originality, heartfelt story, and its insightful exploration of emotions. It resonated with both children and adults by presenting complex psychological concepts in an accessible and entertaining way. The film was a major box office success and received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film. Its imaginative world and touching narrative have made it a beloved modern classic.

‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)

‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ is a post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller. The story follows Max Rockatansky, who joins forces with Imperator Furiosa to flee from the tyrannical Immortan Joe and his army in a high-speed chase across a desert wasteland. Tom Hardy takes on the role of Max, while Charlize Theron plays the formidable Furiosa. The film is known for its relentless pace, practical effects, and visually stunning cinematography.

The movie was celebrated for reinvigorating the action genre with its masterful direction and incredible stunt work. It received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning six for its technical achievements in areas like editing, costume design, and sound mixing. The film’s strong feminist themes and non-stop action sequences have secured its place as one of the greatest action films ever made.

‘Spotlight’ (2015)

‘Spotlight’ tells the true story of the Boston Globe’s investigative journalism team that uncovered a massive scandal of child molestation and its cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese. Directed by Tom McCarthy, the film features an ensemble cast including Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and Liev Schreiber. The movie focuses on the dedicated reporters as they painstakingly piece together the story and face numerous obstacles.

The film was lauded for its gripping narrative and its powerful, understated approach to a sensitive subject. It highlights the importance of investigative journalism in holding powerful institutions accountable. ‘Spotlight’ received numerous awards for its screenplay and performances, culminating in its win for Best Picture at the 88th Academy Awards. It is often praised for its accuracy and its respectful handling of the victims’ stories.

‘Room’ (2015)

‘Room’ is a drama directed by Lenny Abrahamson, based on the novel by Emma Donoghue, who also wrote the screenplay. The story is told from the perspective of a five-year-old boy named Jack, who is held captive in a small, enclosed space with his mother. After they escape, Jack experiences the outside world for the first time, and they both struggle to adjust to their newfound freedom. Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay deliver powerful performances in the leading roles.

The film received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and the stunning performances of its cast. Brie Larson’s portrayal of the resilient mother earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. The movie is a moving exploration of trauma, love, and the bond between a parent and child. It was praised for its unique perspective and its ability to find hope in the darkest of situations.

‘The Martian’ (2015)

‘The Martian’ is a science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and based on the novel by Andy Weir. Matt Damon stars as Mark Watney, an astronaut who is presumed dead and left behind on Mars after a fierce storm. With limited supplies, he must rely on his ingenuity and scientific knowledge to survive and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. The film also features a large ensemble cast, including Jessica Chastain, Jeff Daniels, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

The movie was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its optimistic tone, scientific accuracy, and Damon’s charismatic performance. It presents a story of human resilience and the power of collaboration in the face of impossible odds. ‘The Martian’ was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Matt Damon, and it won the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

‘The Revenant’ (2015)

Directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, ‘The Revenant’ is a survival drama set in the 1820s. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio as frontiersman Hugh Glass, who is brutally mauled by a bear and left for dead by his hunting team. Glass must utilize his survival skills to navigate the harsh winter landscape, seeking revenge on the man who betrayed him, played by Tom Hardy. The film is renowned for its stunning natural cinematography and its immersive, visceral storytelling.

‘The Revenant’ was a major awards contender, earning twelve Academy Award nominations. Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar for Best Actor for his physically demanding and intense performance. Alejandro G. Iñárritu also won for Best Director, and Emmanuel Lubezki won for Best Cinematography, marking his third consecutive win in that category. The film is a brutal and beautiful tale of survival and vengeance.

‘Sicario’ (2015)

‘Sicario’ is a gripping thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve. The film follows an idealistic FBI agent, played by Emily Blunt, who is enlisted by a government task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs at the border between the U.S. and Mexico. She is thrown into a brutal and morally ambiguous world, guided by a shadowy consultant played by Benicio del Toro and a government official played by Josh Brolin.

The movie was praised for its intense atmosphere, stunning cinematography by Roger Deakins, and suspenseful direction. It explores complex themes of justice, morality, and the blurred lines of the drug war. Benicio del Toro’s performance was particularly singled out for praise. ‘Sicario’ received three Academy Award nominations for its cinematography, sound editing, and original score, solidifying its status as a top-tier modern thriller.

‘Ex Machina’ (2015)

‘Ex Machina’ is a science fiction thriller that marks the directorial debut of writer Alex Garland. The story centers on a young programmer, played by Domhnall Gleeson, who is selected to participate in a groundbreaking experiment in artificial intelligence. He is tasked with evaluating the human qualities of a highly advanced humanoid A.I. named Ava, played by Alicia Vikander, who was created by a reclusive CEO played by Oscar Isaac.

The film was widely acclaimed for its intelligent script, stylish direction, and thought-provoking themes about consciousness, humanity, and technology. It functions as a tense psychological drama that keeps audiences guessing until its final moments. ‘Ex Machina’ won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, a remarkable achievement for a film with a relatively modest budget. It is often cited as one of the best science fiction films of the 21st century.

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ (2015)

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ reignited the beloved sci-fi saga for a new generation. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the film picks up three decades after the events of ‘Return of the Jedi’. It introduces new characters like the scavenger Rey, the defecting stormtrooper Finn, and the skilled pilot Poe Dameron, who join forces with iconic heroes Han Solo and General Leia Organa. They face a new threat from Kylo Ren and the sinister First Order.

The movie was a massive commercial success and was met with positive reviews from both critics and fans. It was praised for capturing the spirit of the original trilogy while introducing compelling new characters and storylines. The film successfully balanced nostalgia with fresh energy, setting the stage for a new chapter in the ‘Star Wars’ universe. It was nominated for five Academy Awards and became one of the highest-grossing films of all time.

‘Creed’ (2015)

‘Creed’ is a sports drama that serves as both a sequel and a spinoff to the ‘Rocky’ film series. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film stars Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, who travels to Philadelphia to seek out his late father’s legendary rival and friend, Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone reprises his iconic role, becoming a mentor to the young and determined boxer. The film also features Tessa Thompson as Adonis’s love interest.

The movie received critical acclaim for its direction, script, and the performances of its lead actors. It was seen as a fresh and powerful continuation of the ‘Rocky’ legacy, honoring the past while forging its own identity. Sylvester Stallone’s performance was highly praised, earning him an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actor. ‘Creed’ successfully revitalized a classic franchise for a new audience.

‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015)

‘The Hateful Eight’ is a Western mystery film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. Set in Wyoming after the Civil War, the story follows a group of eight strangers, including a bounty hunter and his fugitive prisoner, who take shelter in a remote cabin during a blizzard. As tensions rise, the group realizes that they may not all make it out alive. The ensemble cast includes Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, and Jennifer Jason Leigh.

The film is known for Tarantino’s signature sharp dialogue, its tense, contained setting, and a captivating score by the legendary Ennio Morricone. It was shot on 70mm film, giving it a grand, cinematic feel. Jennifer Jason Leigh received an Academy Award nomination for her performance, and Ennio Morricone won his first competitive Oscar for Best Original Score. The movie is a stylish and suspenseful addition to Tarantino’s filmography.

‘The Big Short’ (2015)

‘The Big Short’, directed by Adam McKay, chronicles the story of a few individuals who predicted and profited from the U.S. housing market collapse of 2007-2008. The film features an ensemble cast including Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt. It is known for its unconventional narrative style, which breaks the fourth wall to explain complex financial concepts in an entertaining and understandable way.

The movie was praised for its sharp writing, energetic direction, and its ability to make a complicated subject accessible and engaging. It successfully blends comedy and drama to tell a cautionary tale about greed and financial irresponsibility. ‘The Big Short’ won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor for Christian Bale.

‘Carol’ (2015)

‘Carol’ is a romantic drama directed by Todd Haynes, based on the novel ‘The Price of Salt’ by Patricia Highsmith. Set in the early 1950s, the film tells the story of a forbidden love affair between an aspiring photographer, played by Rooney Mara, and an older, married woman, played by Cate Blanchett. The movie beautifully captures the period’s atmosphere and the nuances of a relationship that defies social conventions.

The film received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, cinematography, and the stunning performances of its two leads. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara both earned Academy Award nominations for their roles. ‘Carol’ is celebrated for its elegant and subtle storytelling, creating a powerful and moving portrait of love and desire. It is often regarded as one of the best LGBTQ+ films ever made.

‘Anomalisa’ (2015)

‘Anomalisa’ is a stop-motion animated film directed by Charlie Kaufman and Duke Johnson. The story follows Michael Stone, a customer service expert and author who perceives everyone in the world as having the same face and voice. His monotonous life changes when he meets Lisa, a unique woman who stands out from everyone else. The film explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the human condition with profound depth.

The movie was praised for its originality and its poignant, adult-oriented storytelling, which is rare in the world of animation. The voice cast, featuring David Thewlis, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Tom Noonan, received acclaim for their performances. ‘Anomalisa’ was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film and is considered a masterpiece of stop-motion animation for its realistic and emotionally resonant narrative.

‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015)

‘Straight Outta Compton’ is a biographical drama that chronicles the rise and fall of the influential hip-hop group N.W.A. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film follows the journey of Eazy-E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren, and DJ Yella as they revolutionize music and pop culture with their brutally honest and rebellious songs about life in Southern Los Angeles. The cast includes O’Shea Jackson Jr. playing his father, Ice Cube.

The film was a commercial and critical success, celebrated for its compelling story and powerful performances. It sheds light on the social and political issues that fueled the group’s music and their lasting impact on the entertainment industry. ‘Straight Outta Compton’ received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay and was praised for its authentic depiction of a pivotal moment in music history.

‘Bridge of Spies’ (2015)

‘Bridge of Spies’ is a historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg. The film stars Tom Hanks as James B. Donovan, a lawyer who is recruited by the CIA during the Cold War to negotiate the release of a captured American U-2 pilot. The story is based on the 1960 U-2 incident and its aftermath, focusing on Donovan’s efforts to arrange a prisoner exchange with the Soviet Union. Mark Rylance co-stars as the Soviet spy Rudolf Abel.

The movie received critical acclaim for its classic filmmaking style, compelling script, and strong performances. Mark Rylance’s portrayal of the stoic and principled spy earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. ‘Bridge of Spies’ was also nominated for five other Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. It is a well-crafted and engaging thriller that highlights a fascinating chapter of Cold War history.

‘Brooklyn’ (2015)

‘Brooklyn’ is a romantic drama directed by John Crowley, based on the novel by Colm Tóibín. The film stars Saoirse Ronan as Eilis Lacey, a young Irish woman who immigrates to Brooklyn in the 1950s. She finds work and love, but a family tragedy forces her to return to Ireland, where she finds herself torn between two countries and two different lives. The cast also includes Emory Cohen and Domhnall Gleeson.

The film was praised for its heartfelt story, beautiful cinematography, and Saoirse Ronan’s captivating lead performance, which earned her an Academy Award nomination. ‘Brooklyn’ is a charming and moving tale about home, identity, and the difficult choices that shape our lives. It was nominated for three Academy Awards in total, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay.

‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’ (2015)

‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’ is a comedy-drama directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon. The story follows Greg, a high school senior who spends his time making parodies of classic films with his friend Earl. His perspective on life changes when his mom forces him to befriend Rachel, a classmate who has just been diagnosed with cancer. The film stars Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler, and Olivia Cooke.

The movie was a breakout hit at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. It was praised for its witty script, inventive visual style, and its honest and unconventional approach to a familiar story. The film skillfully balances humor and pathos, creating a touching and unique coming-of-age tale that avoids clichés.

‘The Look of Silence’ (2015)

‘The Look of Silence’ is a documentary directed by Joshua Oppenheimer. It serves as a companion piece to his earlier film ‘The Act of Killing’, which focused on the perpetrators of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965–66. This film shifts the perspective to the victims’ families, following an optometrist who confronts the men who killed his brother while fitting them for glasses.

The documentary was universally acclaimed for its powerful and courageous filmmaking. It is a deeply moving and unsettling examination of memory, denial, and the struggle for justice. The film provides a platform for the silent victims of a national tragedy to seek answers and accountability. ‘The Look of Silence’ was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and is considered a landmark work of non-fiction cinema.

‘Amy’ (2015)

‘Amy’ is a documentary film that provides an intimate look at the life and career of British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. Directed by Asif Kapadia, the movie uses extensive unseen archival footage and personal testimonials to tell the story of her incredible talent, her struggles with addiction and media scrutiny, and her tragic death at the age of 27.

The film was celebrated for its sensitive and comprehensive portrayal of the artist, going beyond the tabloid headlines to reveal the person behind the public persona. It offers a powerful commentary on the pressures of fame and the impact of the media. ‘Amy’ was a major critical and commercial success, winning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and the Grammy for Best Music Film.

‘Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation’ (2015)

‘Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation’ is the fifth installment in the action spy film series. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the movie once again stars Tom Cruise as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. This time, Hunt and his team must go on the run from the CIA as they try to prove the existence of the Syndicate, a mysterious and highly skilled international criminal organization. The film also features Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, and introduces Rebecca Ferguson to the franchise.

The film was a huge success, praised for its thrilling action sequences, intricate plot, and Tom Cruise’s commitment to performing his own dangerous stunts, including hanging from the side of a plane during takeoff. Rebecca Ferguson’s character, Ilsa Faust, was also highlighted as a standout. The movie continued the series’ trend of receiving positive reviews, solidifying its place as a premier action franchise.

’45 Years’ (2015)

’45 Years’ is a British drama directed by Andrew Haigh. The film stars Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay as Kate and Geoff Mercer, a retired couple who are about to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary. Their quiet life is disrupted when Geoff receives news that the body of his first love has been discovered, perfectly preserved in a glacier decades after she disappeared. This revelation creates a subtle but powerful rift in their long marriage.

The film received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for the masterful and nuanced performances of its two lead actors. Both Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay earned numerous accolades for their roles, with Rampling receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The movie is a quiet, powerful, and devastating look at love, memory, and the secrets that can lie dormant in a relationship.

‘Mustang’ (2015)

‘Mustang’ is a drama film directed by Deniz Gamze Ergüven. The story is set in a remote Turkish village and follows five young orphaned sisters whose innocent fun on a beach with some boys is misinterpreted by their conservative guardians. Their home is gradually turned into a prison, and their family begins to arrange marriages for them. The sisters, bound by a strong desire for freedom, fight back against the oppressive restrictions placed upon them.

The film was internationally praised for its powerful story and the vibrant performances of its young cast. It is a compelling and timely exploration of female empowerment, rebellion, and sisterhood in a patriarchal society. ‘Mustang’ was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and won numerous awards at film festivals around the world, marking a stunning debut for its director.

‘It Follows’ (2015)

‘It Follows’ is a supernatural horror film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell. The movie centers on a young woman who, after a sexual encounter, is pursued by a relentless supernatural entity that can take the form of any person. She learns that the curse is passed from person to person through sex and that she must pass it on to someone else to survive. Maika Monroe stars in the lead role.

The film was lauded by critics for its original concept, suspenseful atmosphere, and stylish direction. It subverts many horror movie tropes and creates a palpable sense of dread and paranoia. The synth-heavy score by Disasterpeace also received significant praise for contributing to the film’s unsettling mood. ‘It Follows’ is considered a modern horror classic and one of the most inventive genre films of the decade.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

‘Tangerine’ is a comedy-drama directed by Sean Baker. The film follows a transgender sex worker who discovers that her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her. With the help of her best friend, she tears through the streets of Los Angeles on Christmas Eve to find him and confront the other woman. The film is notable for being shot entirely on iPhones and for its raw, energetic style.

The movie was celebrated for its vibrant energy, humor, and its groundbreaking portrayal of transgender characters, played by transgender actresses Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor. It received critical acclaim for its authentic and humanizing story, offering a glimpse into a world rarely seen on screen. ‘Tangerine’ was a critical darling and an important milestone for independent and LGBTQ+ cinema.

‘Son of Saul’ (2015)

‘Son of Saul’ is a Hungarian drama directed by László Nemes. Set in the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1944, the film follows Saul Ausländer, a Hungarian-Jewish prisoner forced to work in the gas chambers. He finds a moment of moral purpose when he tries to salvage the body of a boy he takes for his son and find a rabbi to give him a proper burial. The film uses a tight, claustrophobic visual style to immerse the viewer in Saul’s harrowing experience.

The film received overwhelming critical acclaim for its powerful and unflinching depiction of the Holocaust. Its unique directorial approach and intense focus create a deeply personal and unforgettable viewing experience. ‘Son of Saul’ won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It is considered a landmark achievement in cinema.

‘The End of the Tour’ (2015)

‘The End of the Tour’ is a biographical drama directed by James Ponsoldt. The film depicts a five-day interview between Rolling Stone reporter David Lipsky, played by Jesse Eisenberg, and the acclaimed novelist David Foster Wallace, played by Jason Segel. The interview took place in 1996, shortly after the publication of Wallace’s groundbreaking novel ‘Infinite Jest’. The film is based on Lipsky’s memoir about his time with the author.

The movie was praised for its intelligent script and the compelling performances of its two leads. Jason Segel’s portrayal of Wallace was particularly noted as a dramatic turn that captured the author’s brilliance, vulnerability, and wit. The film is a thoughtful and engaging conversation piece that explores themes of fame, depression, and the nature of storytelling.

‘Steve Jobs’ (2015)

‘Steve Jobs’ is a biographical drama directed by Danny Boyle and written by Aaron Sorkin. The film presents a portrait of the Apple Inc. co-founder, played by Michael Fassbender, by focusing on three key product launches during his career. The story unfolds backstage in real-time before the launch of the Macintosh, the NeXT Computer, and the iMac. Kate Winslet co-stars as Joanna Hoffman, his trusted marketing executive.

The film was highly praised for Sorkin’s rapid-fire, dialogue-heavy screenplay and the strong performances from the cast. Michael Fassbender and Kate Winslet both received Academy Award nominations for their roles. While not a traditional biopic, the film’s unique structure provides a compelling and intense look at the complex man behind the digital revolution. Winslet won a Golden Globe for her performance.

‘Beasts of No Nation’ (2015)

‘Beasts of No Nation’ is a war drama written and directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga. The film follows Agu, a young boy in an unnamed West African country who is forced to become a child soldier after his family is torn apart by civil war. He is taken under the wing of the charismatic but ruthless Commandant, played by Idris Elba. The film offers a brutal and unflinching look at the horrors of war through the eyes of a child.

The movie was acclaimed for its powerful direction, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances. Abraham Attah, in his debut role as Agu, and Idris Elba both received widespread praise. Elba won the Screen Actors Guild Award and was nominated for a Golden Globe for his compelling portrayal of the Commandant. The film was a significant release for Netflix, marking its first original feature film.

What were your favorite movies from 2015 that you think should have made the list?