20 Best Steven Spielberg Movies, Ranked

Steven Spielberg has shaped modern cinema with a career spanning over five decades, delivering films that thrill, inspire, and tug at heartstrings. From groundbreaking blockbusters to deeply personal dramas, his work captures the magic of storytelling through a lens of wonder and humanity.

His ability to blend entertainment with emotional depth has made him a household name, with movies that resonate across generations. I’ve ranked his top 20 films, based on their impact, craft, and lasting appeal.

20. ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ (2008)

This fourth Indy adventure sees Harrison Ford back as the whip-cracking archaeologist, facing Soviets and alien artifacts. The return of Karen Allen as Marion Ravenwood adds charm, and Cate Blanchett’s villain is delightfully over-the-top.

Despite fun action and nostalgic vibes, the film stumbles with a convoluted plot and questionable choices, like the infamous fridge scene. It’s a lighter entry in Spielberg’s catalog, enjoyable but not his strongest.

19. ‘The Terminal’ (2004)

Tom Hanks stars as Viktor, a man stranded in JFK airport due to a bureaucratic nightmare after his country’s collapse. His warmth and humor carry the story, with a quirky cast adding flavor.

The premise is intriguing, but the film feels stretched, leaning too heavily on sentimentality. It’s a gentle tale that doesn’t quite soar, though Spielberg’s knack for human connection shines through.

18. ‘War Horse’ (2011)

This World War I epic follows a horse named Joey, whose journey through battlefields touches lives. The sweeping visuals and heartfelt performances make it a solid, emotional ride.

Spielberg’s tendency for sentiment can feel heavy here, and the story doesn’t always hit as hard as his other war films. Still, it’s a beautifully crafted ode to resilience and loyalty.

17. ‘The Adventures of Tintin’ (2011)

Spielberg brings Hergé’s comic hero to life in this animated adventure, with Tintin chasing treasure alongside Captain Haddock. The motion-capture visuals dazzle, especially in thrilling chase scenes.

The film lacks the emotional depth of Spielberg’s best, feeling more like a fun spectacle. It’s a lively romp, perfect for younger audiences but less memorable for adults.

16. ‘The BFG’ (2016)

Based on Roald Dahl’s book, this tale of a girl and her giant friend brims with whimsy. Mark Rylance’s soulful performance as the Big Friendly Giant anchors the magical visuals.

The pacing drags at times, and the story feels overly gentle, missing the spark of Spielberg’s top family films. It’s charming but doesn’t linger long in memory.

15. ‘The Post’ (2017)

Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks lead this drama about The Washington Post’s fight to publish the Pentagon Papers. It’s a sharp look at journalism’s power, with a stellar ensemble.

While well-made, it feels straightforward compared to Spielberg’s bolder works. The timely message resonates, but the execution lacks a certain fire.

14. ‘Always’ (1989)

This romantic drama follows a pilot’s ghost guiding his successor while watching over his former love. Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter bring warmth to the bittersweet story.

The film’s heavy sentimentality can overwhelm, and it’s one of Spielberg’s less focused efforts. Still, its heart and unique premise make it quietly moving.

13. ‘Hook’ (1991)

Robin Williams stars as a grown-up Peter Pan rediscovering his past in Neverland. Dustin Hoffman’s flamboyant Captain Hook and the vibrant sets add flair.

The film’s pacing sags, and the tone wobbles between whimsy and drama. It’s a nostalgic favorite for some, but it doesn’t fully capture Spielberg’s usual magic.

12. ‘Minority Report’ (2002)

Tom Cruise plays a cop in a future where crimes are predicted and stopped before they happen. The sleek visuals and gripping action make it a standout sci-fi thriller.

The story’s moral questions are compelling, but the third act feels rushed. Spielberg’s knack for blending ideas with thrills keeps it engaging.

11. ‘The Color Purple’ (1985)

Whoopi Goldberg shines as Celie, a woman overcoming abuse in rural Georgia. The emotional weight and strong performances from Oprah Winfrey and Danny Glover hit hard.

Spielberg’s first serious drama feels earnest but slightly polished, softening some of the book’s raw edges. It’s a powerful step in his evolution as a filmmaker.

10. ‘Empire of the Sun’ (1987)

Christian Bale, in a breakout role, plays a boy navigating World War II in a Japanese internment camp. The epic scope and emotional depth showcase Spielberg’s range.

The film’s sprawling narrative can feel uneven, but Bale’s performance and the vivid imagery make it a hidden gem. It’s a poignant look at innocence amid chaos.

9. ‘Bridge of Spies’ (2015)

Tom Hanks portrays a lawyer negotiating a prisoner swap during the Cold War. The tense, character-driven story is elevated by Mark Rylance’s subtle performance.

Spielberg’s restraint keeps the drama grounded, though it lacks the flash of his blockbusters. It’s a smart, understated take on history and duty.

8. ‘West Side Story’ (2021)

Spielberg’s remake of the classic musical brings vibrant energy to the Jets and Sharks rivalry. Ariana DeBose’s electric performance as Anita steals the show.

While not as iconic as the original, the visuals and choreography dazzle. It’s a bold, heartfelt take, proving Spielberg’s skill in new genres.

7. ‘Catch Me If You Can’ (2002)

Leonardo DiCaprio plays real-life con artist Frank Abagnale, chased by Tom Hanks’ determined FBI agent. The cat-and-mouse game is stylish and endlessly entertaining.

Spielberg balances humor and heart, making the true story feel larger than life. It’s a breezy, charismatic gem that showcases his lighter side.

6. ‘Lincoln’ (2012)

Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a towering performance as Abraham Lincoln, fighting to pass the 13th Amendment. The stellar cast, including Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones, adds depth.

The film’s focus on political maneuvering is gripping, though it can feel dense. Spielberg crafts a rich, human portrait of a pivotal moment.

5. ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’ (1977)

Richard Dreyfuss stars as a man obsessed with aliens after a strange encounter. The film’s sense of wonder and groundbreaking effects capture Spielberg’s early magic.

The pacing can feel slow, but the awe-inspiring climax makes it unforgettable. It’s a heartfelt exploration of curiosity and connection.

4. ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ (1982)

A boy befriends a stranded alien, leading to a touching tale of friendship and discovery. The iconic bike chase and emotional farewell are pure Spielberg.

The film’s warmth and simplicity resonate with all ages. It’s a timeless family classic that defined a generation.

3. ‘Saving Private Ryan’ (1998)

Tom Hanks leads a squad to rescue a soldier in this harrowing World War II epic. The brutal Omaha Beach sequence sets a new standard for war films.

The story’s emotional core, exploring sacrifice and duty, hits hard. Spielberg’s raw, unflinching direction makes it a masterpiece.

2. ‘Jaws’ (1975)

A small town faces a killer shark, with Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss hunting it down. The suspense and character dynamics are gripping.

Spielberg’s breakthrough birthed the summer blockbuster, blending terror with humanity. It’s a thrilling classic that still holds up.

1. ‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)

Liam Neeson plays Oskar Schindler, saving Jews during the Holocaust. The black-and-white visuals and raw storytelling are devastatingly powerful.

Spielberg’s most profound work balances horror with hope. It’s a monumental achievement, earning him his first Best Director Oscar.

Which Spielberg film is your favorite, or did I overlook a classic? Share your thoughts in the comments!