Angelina Jolie Names the Movies She Loves Most

Angelina Jolie has spent decades in Hollywood, moving easily between action movies, serious dramas, and directing powerful real-life stories.

Even with all that success, her taste in movies is shaped by older films and strong characters rather than modern blockbusters. In past interviews and public talks, Jolie has openly shared the movies that stayed with her and helped shape who she is as an artist.

Growing up in a film household had a big influence on her. As the daughter of actor Jon Voight, movies were always around. One film that made a strong impression on her as a child was Disney’s 1959 animated classic Sleeping Beauty. She was especially drawn to the villain, Maleficent. While speaking about the character, Jolie once said, “You just think, ‘Who is this big powerful force that seems so elegant as a woman?’”

She explained that Maleficent felt different from other villains. “And even though she’s wicked, she seems to be having a very good time. I just found her kind of mesmerizing,” Jolie said. She also compared the character’s style to old Hollywood films from the 1930s and 1940s. Years later, that early fascination came full circle when Jolie herself played Maleficent in Disney’s live-action films.

Her love for film was also shaped by her mother, who introduced her to intense performances and darker stories. Jolie has spoken about watching Al Pacino movies at home, especially Dog Day Afternoon. Another film that stuck with her was Scarface. Talking about it, she once joked, “I’m sure Scarface when I was younger.” She added, “That will creep up again, I’m sure, whenever I’m angry.”

Big adventure films also played a major role in her life. Jolie has often mentioned Lawrence of Arabia as one of the movies that inspired her to explore the world and learn about other cultures. “I liked the journey you could take, the emotional journey, but then there’s also just the real journey of going to places where you can learn about other cultures and be other people,” she explained.

Her favorites also include tough, serious films like The Hill, directed by Sidney Lumet, and Papillon starring Steve McQueen. These movies reflect her interest in survival, endurance, and complex human emotions. At the same time, becoming a mother added new films to her regular watch list. Jolie has shared that she often watches Frozen and Despicable Me with her children, showing a softer and more playful side of her movie habits.

As of early 2026, Jolie is enjoying a strong moment in her career. She received major attention for her role in the biopic Maria, where she plays opera legend Maria Callas during the final years of her life. The performance has placed her firmly in the awards season conversation. She is also finishing work on her new film as a director, Without Blood, starring Salma Hayek and Demián Bichir, based on the novel by Alessandro Baricco.

Outside of filmmaking, Jolie continues her humanitarian work. According to recent announcements, she has launched a new global project focused on protecting the environment and indigenous land rights. She is also expanding her fashion project, Atelier Jolie, which focuses on sustainable fashion and working with skilled local designers. There are still rumors about her possibly returning to the Marvel universe as Thena, but her attention seems to be on smaller, story-driven films.

At home, Jolie is focused on supporting her children as they explore creative paths of their own. Between directing, acting, and activism, she continues to move with purpose and quiet confidence. The films she loves most reflect that same spirit, full of emotion, intensity, and unforgettable journeys.

  What’s your take on Angelina Jolie’s favorite films? Let us know in the comments.