Best-Rated Movies from 2012

The year 2012 was a remarkable time for cinema, offering a diverse slate of films that captured the imaginations of audiences and critics alike. From epic superhero blockbusters that redefined the genre to poignant dramas that explored the depths of human emotion, the year delivered a wide array of memorable cinematic experiences. It was a year that saw established directors at the top of their game and emerging talents making their mark, resulting in a collection of films that continue to be celebrated for their storytelling, performances, and technical achievements.

This list revisits 30 of the best-rated movies from that standout year, a collection of films that left a lasting impact on the landscape of cinema. These are the stories that thrilled us, moved us, and made us think, showcasing the incredible range of creativity and artistry that graced the silver screen. Whether you’re looking to revisit an old favorite or discover a gem you may have missed, these films represent the pinnacle of filmmaking from 2012 and serve as a testament to a truly great year in movies.

‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012)

Years after the events of ‘The Dark Knight’, Gotham City is at peace, but Bruce Wayne, played by Christian Bale, lives in seclusion. The emergence of a formidable new adversary, the masked terrorist Bane, portrayed by Tom Hardy, forces Batman to resurface and confront an enemy who threatens to destroy the city. As Bane’s plan unfolds, plunging Gotham into chaos, Batman must forge new alliances and confront painful truths to save the city he has sworn to protect. The film was directed by Christopher Nolan, who also co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Jonathan Nolan.

The story also features the introduction of Selina Kyle, a cunning cat burglar known as Catwoman, played by Anne Hathaway, whose allegiances are tested throughout the crisis. Other key cast members include Gary Oldman as Commissioner James Gordon, Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the idealistic police officer John Blake, and Marion Cotillard as the enigmatic Miranda Tate. The film serves as the epic conclusion to Nolan’s Batman trilogy, exploring themes of pain, sacrifice, and the enduring nature of heroism.

‘Django Unchained’ (2012)

Set in the American South two years before the Civil War, the film follows Django, a slave whose brutal history with his former owners brings him face-to-face with a German-born bounty hunter, Dr. King Schultz. Schultz is on the trail of the murderous Brittle brothers, and only Django can lead him to his bounty. The unorthodox Schultz acquires Django with a promise to free him upon the capture of the Brittles, dead or alive.

Success leads Schultz to free Django, though the two men choose not to go their separate ways. Instead, Schultz seeks out the South’s most wanted criminals with Django by his side. Honing vital hunting skills, Django remains focused on one goal, finding and rescuing the wife he lost to the slave trade long ago. Django and Schultz’s search ultimately leads them to Calvin Candie, the proprietor of a notorious plantation. The film was written and directed by Quentin Tarantino and stars Jamie Foxx as Django, Christoph Waltz as Dr. Schultz, and Leonardo DiCaprio as Calvin Candie.

‘Skyfall’ (2012)

In ‘Skyfall’, James Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. After a mission in Istanbul goes wrong, Bond is presumed dead, and the identities of undercover MI6 agents around the world are leaked. MI6 itself comes under attack, forcing M to relocate the agency. With MI6 compromised, M is left with only one ally she can trust: Bond. 007 takes to the shadows, following a trail to the mysterious and dangerous Raoul Silva.

Daniel Craig returns as James Bond for the third time, with Judi Dench reprising her role as M. The film introduces Javier Bardem as the villainous Silva, a former MI6 agent with a personal vendetta against M. Directed by Sam Mendes, the screenplay was written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, and John Logan. The film also sees the reintroduction of two classic characters to the series, with Ben Whishaw as Q and Naomie Harris as Eve Moneypenny.

‘The Avengers’ (2012)

When an unexpected enemy emerges that threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, Director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D., finds himself in need of a team to pull the world back from the brink of disaster. Spanning the globe, a daring recruitment effort begins for Earth’s mightiest heroes. Iron Man, Captain America, the Hulk, Thor, Hawkeye, and Black Widow are brought together to fight as a team.

The group of superheroes must learn to work together to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity. The film was written and directed by Joss Whedon and features an ensemble cast including Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Chris Evans as Captain America, Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye. Tom Hiddleston also stars as the villainous Loki.

‘Life of Pi’ (2012)

The film follows the story of a young man named Pi Patel who survives a disaster at sea and is hurtled into an epic journey of adventure and discovery. While adrift in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on a lifeboat, he forms an unexpected connection with another survivor, a fearsome Bengal tiger. The story is told from the perspective of an adult Pi, recounting his incredible 227-day ordeal to a writer.

Directed by Ang Lee and based on the novel by Yann Martel, the screenplay was written by David Magee. The film stars Suraj Sharma in his debut role as the teenage Pi, with Irrfan Khan portraying the adult Pi. The narrative explores themes of faith, survival, and the power of storytelling, as Pi and the tiger, named Richard Parker, must learn to coexist to survive their perilous journey across the ocean.

‘Argo’ (2012)

Based on a true story, ‘Argo’ chronicles the life-or-death covert operation to rescue six Americans, which unfolded behind the scenes of the Iran hostage crisis. On November 4, 1979, as the Iranian revolution reaches its boiling point, militants storm the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage. But in the midst of the chaos, six Americans manage to slip away and find refuge in the home of the Canadian ambassador.

Knowing it is only a matter of time before the six are found out and likely killed, a CIA exfiltration specialist named Tony Mendez comes up with a risky plan to get them safely out of the country. A plan so incredible, it could only happen in the movies. Ben Affleck directed the film and stars as Tony Mendez. The screenplay was written by Chris Terrio, based on the book by Mendez and an article by Joshuah Bearman. The cast includes Bryan Cranston, Alan Arkin, and John Goodman.

‘Lincoln’ (2012)

As the American Civil War continues to rage, America’s sixteenth president struggles with continuing carnage on the battlefield and as he fights with many inside his own cabinet on the decision to emancipate the slaves. Abraham Lincoln’s supreme mission is to end the war, unite the country, and abolish slavery. With the moral courage and fierce determination to succeed, his actions in this tumultuous period will change the fate of generations to come.

Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film focuses on the final four months of Lincoln’s life and his efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Abraham Lincoln, with Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens. The screenplay by Tony Kushner is based in part on the biography ‘Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln’ by Doris Kearns Goodwin.

‘Silver Linings Playbook’ (2012)

After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious girl with problems of her own. Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with his wife, but only if he’ll do something very important for her in return. As their deal plays out, an unexpected bond begins to form between them.

The film was written and directed by David O. Russell, based on the novel by Matthew Quick. It stars Bradley Cooper as Pat and Jennifer Lawrence as Tiffany. The cast also includes Robert De Niro as Pat’s father, Jacki Weaver as his mother, and Chris Tucker in a supporting role. The story explores themes of mental health, family, and finding love in unexpected places.

‘Zero Dark Thirty’ (2012)

For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. The film details the nearly decade-long manhunt for the al-Qaeda leader following the September 11th attacks. The story focuses on a determined CIA operative named Maya, who becomes the driving force behind the mission.

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow and written by Mark Boal, the film stars Jessica Chastain as Maya. The narrative follows her journey from her initial involvement in the search to the final raid on bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan. The cast includes Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton, and Mark Strong, and the film provides a dramatic and intense look at the intelligence work and military precision involved in the historic operation.

‘The Master’ (2012)

A striking portrait of drifters and seekers in post-World War II America, the film follows a charismatic intellectual who hatches a faith-based organization that begins to catch on. As the group grows, a Naval veteran arrives home from the war, unsettled and uncertain of his future. He is mesmerized by the leader and his teachings and becomes the man’s right-hand man.

Written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as the charismatic leader, Lancaster Dodd, and Joaquin Phoenix as Freddie Quell, the troubled veteran. Amy Adams plays Dodd’s wife, Peggy. The narrative explores the complex relationship between the two men as Freddie’s volatile nature clashes with the structured world of the organization.

‘Moonrise Kingdom’ (2012)

Set on an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, the film tells the story of two twelve-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness. As a violent storm brews off-shore, the island is turned upside down in a local search party to find them. The peaceful island community is thrown into turmoil as various factions of the town mobilize to locate the missing children.

Directed by Wes Anderson, who co-wrote the screenplay with Roman Coppola, the film features a whimsical and distinctive visual style. The young leads are played by newcomers Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward. The ensemble cast of adults includes Bruce Willis as the local sheriff, Edward Norton as a Khaki Scout troop leader, and Bill Murray and Frances McDormand as the girl’s parents.

‘Amour’ (2012)

The film explores the final chapter in the long and loving marriage of a retired couple of music teachers in their eighties. Georges and Anne live a quiet life in their Paris apartment, but their world is turned upside down when Anne suffers a stroke that paralyzes one side of her body. Georges becomes her devoted caregiver, but as Anne’s condition deteriorates, their bond of love is put to the ultimate test.

Written and directed by Michael Haneke, the film offers a powerful and unflinching look at the challenges of aging, illness, and mortality. Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva deliver profound performances as Georges and Anne, capturing the deep love and quiet suffering of their characters. Isabelle Huppert also stars as their daughter, who struggles to cope with her mother’s decline.

‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’ (2012)

In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl named Hushpuppy exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm approaches. When her ailing father’s health begins to fade, and the storm threatens their home, Hushpuppy’s world begins to unravel.

Directed by Benh Zeitlin, who co-wrote the screenplay with Lucy Alibar based on her stage play, the film is a magical and moving tale of survival and resilience. Quvenzhané Wallis gives a remarkable debut performance as Hushpuppy, and Dwight Henry plays her tough but loving father, Wink. The film was praised for its unique visual style and its powerful depiction of a community living on the fringes of society.

‘Les Misérables’ (2012)

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, ‘Les Misérables’ tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption. Ex-prisoner Jean Valjean is hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine’s young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever.

This epic musical was directed by Tom Hooper and is based on the beloved stage musical, which in turn was adapted from Victor Hugo’s classic novel. The screenplay was written by William Nicholson, Alain Boublil, Claude-Michel Schönberg, and Herbert Kretzmer. The star-studded cast includes Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean, Russell Crowe as Javert, and Anne Hathaway as Fantine, with Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, and Helena Bonham Carter in supporting roles.

‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ (2012)

The adventure follows the journey of title character Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakenshield. Their journey will take them into the Wild, through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs.

Directed by Peter Jackson, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and Guillermo del Toro, this film is the first installment in a three-part adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel. Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo Baggins, and Ian McKellen reprises his role as Gandalf. Richard Armitage portrays the determined dwarf leader, Thorin Oakenshield.

‘Prometheus’ (2012)

A team of explorers discover a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth, leading them on a thrilling journey to the darkest corners of the universe. There, they must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race. The scientific vessel Prometheus travels to a distant moon following a star map found in the artifacts of ancient cultures, hoping to find humanity’s creators, the “Engineers.”

Directed by Ridley Scott, the film was written by Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof. It serves as a prequel to Scott’s 1979 film ‘Alien’. The ensemble cast includes Noomi Rapace as archaeologist Elizabeth Shaw, Michael Fassbender as the android David, and Charlize Theron as mission director Meredith Vickers. The crew’s quest for answers leads them to a discovery that could threaten all of humanity.

‘Looper’ (2012)

In the futuristic action thriller ‘Looper’, time travel is a reality, but it is illegal and only available on the black market. When the mob wants to get rid of someone, they send their target 30 years into the past, where a “looper”, a hired gun, is waiting to mop up. Joe is one such looper, and he’s gotten very good at his job. One day, the mob decides to “close the loop”, sending back Joe’s future self for assassination.

The film was written and directed by Rian Johnson. Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays the younger Joe, while Bruce Willis portrays his older self. The story follows the intense cat-and-mouse game between the two versions of the same man, as young Joe must hunt down his future self to survive. Emily Blunt also stars as a tough-as-nails farmer who gets caught in the middle of their conflict.

‘The Hunger Games’ (2012)

In a dystopian future, the nation of Panem is divided into 12 districts and the wealthy Capitol. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the televised games are broadcast throughout Panem. The 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors while the citizens of Panem are required to watch.

Based on the novel by Suzanne Collins, the film was directed by Gary Ross, who co-wrote the screenplay with Collins and Billy Ray. Jennifer Lawrence stars as Katniss Everdeen, a resourceful teenager from District 12 who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the games. Josh Hutcherson plays Peeta Mellark, the other tribute from her district. The cast also includes Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, and Elizabeth Banks.

‘Brave’ (2012)

Set in the rugged and mystical Scottish Highlands, ‘Brave’ follows the heroic journey of Merida, a skilled archer and the impetuous daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land. Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old witch for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish.

This animated feature was produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman. Chapman also contributed to the story and screenplay. The voice cast includes Kelly Macdonald as Merida, Billy Connolly as King Fergus, and Emma Thompson as Queen Elinor. The film explores the bond between a mother and daughter as Merida must discover the true meaning of bravery to undo a beastly curse.

‘Wreck-It Ralph’ (2012)

For decades, Ralph has been playing the role of the bad guy in his popular video game. In a bold move, he embarks on an action-packed adventure and sets out to prove that he is a true hero with a big heart. As he explores new worlds, he teams up with some unlikely new friends including feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz. Then, when a deadly enemy threatens their world, Ralph realizes he holds the fate of the entire arcade in his massive hands.

This animated film from Walt Disney Animation Studios was directed by Rich Moore. The screenplay was written by Phil Johnston and Jennifer Lee from a story by Moore, Johnston, and Jim Reardon. The voice cast features John C. Reilly as Wreck-It Ralph, Sarah Silverman as Vanellope von Schweetz, Jack McBrayer as Fix-It Felix Jr., and Jane Lynch as Sergeant Calhoun.

‘Ted’ (2012)

John Bennett is a grown man whose cherished teddy bear came to life as the result of a childhood wish, and has refused to leave his side ever since. As John’s relationship with his girlfriend Lori heats up, he must navigate the challenges of a committed relationship while dealing with his foul-mouthed and irresponsible teddy bear friend, Ted. Ted’s constant presence and hedonistic lifestyle put a strain on John and Lori’s future together.

This live-action/CGI comedy was the feature film directorial debut of Seth MacFarlane, who also co-wrote the screenplay and provided the voice for Ted. Mark Wahlberg stars as John Bennett, and Mila Kunis plays his girlfriend, Lori Collins. The film is a humorous take on friendship and growing up, blending raunchy humor with a surprisingly sweet story about loyalty and love.

’21 Jump Street’ (2012)

In this action-comedy, Schmidt and Jenko are more than ready to leave their adolescent problems behind. Joining the police force and the secret Jump Street unit, they use their youthful appearances to go undercover in a local high school. As they trade in their guns and badges for backpacks, Schmidt and Jenko risk their lives to investigate a violent and dangerous drug ring. But they find that high school is nothing like they left it just a few years earlier.

Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the film is a comedic adaptation of the 1980s television series of the same name. The screenplay was written by Michael Bacall, from a story by Bacall and Jonah Hill. Hill and Channing Tatum star as the undercover officers, Schmidt and Jenko, respectively. The film hilariously subverts high school movie tropes while delivering plenty of action and laughs.

‘Magic Mike’ (2012)

By day, Mike is a jack-of-all-trades, from roofing to auto detailing. But at night, he’s the headliner in an all-male revue, a star performer at the Xquisite Strip Club. When he takes a promising young dancer called The Kid under his wing, Mike finds himself navigating the worlds of love, friendship, and the pursuit of the American dream. As he tries to build a life for himself outside of the stripping world, he must confront the realities of his profession and the impact it has on his relationships.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film was written by Reid Carolin and is loosely based on the real-life experiences of its star, Channing Tatum, who plays Mike. Alex Pettyfer portrays The Kid, and Matthew McConaughey plays Dallas, the charismatic owner of the strip club. The film offers a surprisingly thoughtful look at the lives of male strippers, exploring themes of ambition, friendship, and the search for a meaningful life.

‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ (2012)

The film is a coming-of-age story about a socially awkward teenager named Charlie. As he navigates the treacherous waters of high school, Charlie is taken under the wing of two captivating seniors who welcome him into their world of new friendships, first love, and burgeoning independence. Through his interactions with his new friends, Charlie begins to emerge from his shell and confront the joys and pains of growing up.

Written and directed by Stephen Chbosky, the film is based on his own best-selling novel of the same name. Logan Lerman stars as the introverted Charlie, with Emma Watson and Ezra Miller playing the free-spirited seniors, Sam and Patrick. The film is a heartfelt and honest portrayal of adolescence, dealing with themes of friendship, mental health, and the search for identity.

‘End of Watch’ (2012)

The film follows the daily lives of two young Los Angeles police officers, Brian Taylor and Mike Zavala, as they patrol the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods. The story is presented through a combination of found footage from handheld HD cameras, giving it a raw and immediate feel. As the officers encounter a string of increasingly dangerous situations, they find themselves marked for death by a notorious cartel.

Written and directed by David Ayer, the film is a gritty and realistic look at the intense and often dangerous world of law enforcement. Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña star as Officers Taylor and Zavala, and their strong chemistry anchors the film. The narrative focuses not only on their professional lives but also on their deep friendship and the impact their job has on their personal lives.

‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2012)

Five college friends head out for a weekend of fun at a remote cabin, but their getaway quickly turns into a terrifying ordeal. As they begin to uncover the truth behind the cabin, they realize they are part of a much larger and more sinister game. The film deconstructs the horror genre, playing with familiar tropes and clichés in clever and unexpected ways.

Directed by Drew Goddard, who co-wrote the screenplay with Joss Whedon, ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ is a smart and satirical take on horror films. The cast includes Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, and Jesse Williams as the group of friends. Richard Jenkins and Bradley Whitford also star as two technicians who appear to be manipulating the events at the cabin from an underground facility.

‘Chronicle’ (2012)

Three high school friends make an incredible discovery, leading to their developing uncanny telekinetic powers beyond their understanding. As they learn to control their abilities and use them to their advantage, their lives start to spin out of control. Their bond is tested as one of them begins to embrace a darker path, using his powers for more sinister purposes.

Directed by Josh Trank and written by Max Landis, the film is presented in a found-footage style, as the characters document their experiences with a video camera. The movie stars Dane DeHaan, Alex Russell, and Michael B. Jordan as the three friends who gain superpowers. ‘Chronicle’ offers a unique and grounded take on the superhero genre, exploring the consequences of power and the fragility of friendship.

‘Seven Psychopaths’ (2012)

A struggling screenwriter inadvertently becomes entangled in the Los Angeles criminal underworld after his oddball friends kidnap a gangster’s beloved Shih Tzu. The screenwriter, who is trying to finish a screenplay called ‘Seven Psychopaths’, finds himself surrounded by real-life psychopaths, each with their own bizarre and violent tendencies. As the situation spirals out of control, he must find a way to survive and perhaps even find inspiration for his script.

Written and directed by Martin McDonagh, this dark comedy features an ensemble cast that includes Colin Farrell as the screenwriter Marty, Sam Rockwell and Christopher Walken as his dog-napping friends Billy and Hans, and Woody Harrelson as the ruthless gangster Charlie. The film is a witty and self-aware crime caper with a sharp script and memorable performances.

‘The Impossible’ (2012)

The film tells the true story of a family caught in the mayhem of one of the worst natural disasters of our time. Maria, Henry, and their three sons begin their winter vacation in Thailand, looking forward to a few days in tropical paradise. But on the morning of December 26, as the family relaxes around the pool, a terrifying roar rises up from the center of the earth. A giant wall of black water races across the hotel grounds, tearing everything and everyone in its path.

Directed by J.A. Bayona and written by Sergio G. Sánchez, the film is a harrowing and emotional account of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor star as Maria and Henry, with Tom Holland, Samuel Joslin, and Oaklee Pendergast playing their sons. The movie is a powerful story of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family in the face of unimaginable devastation.

‘Flight’ (2012)

In this dramatic thriller, an airline pilot saves almost all his passengers on his malfunctioning airliner which crashes, but an investigation into the accident reveals something troubling. Whip Whitaker, a seasoned pilot, miraculously crash-lands his plane after a mid-air catastrophe, saving nearly every soul on board. But as he’s hailed as a hero, questions arise as to what and who was really at fault, and what was really happening on that plane.

Directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by John Gatins, the film features a powerful performance from Denzel Washington as Whip Whitaker. The story delves into the complex character of a man who is both a hero and deeply flawed, struggling with addiction and personal demons. The cast also includes Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, and John Goodman.

What are your favorite movies from 2012 that made the list?