The 10 Most Influential Films That You’ve Probably Never Seen (or You Need to Rewatch if You Have)

Some movies change the way we see the world, but not all of them get the spotlight they deserve. These films might not be household names, but their impact on storytelling, style, or technique is undeniable, inspiring countless directors and creators.

We’ve dug into cinema’s lesser-known corners to bring you a list of ten films that have left a lasting mark on the industry. From groundbreaking visuals to bold narratives, these movies deserve a spot on your watchlist for their quiet but powerful influence.

10. ‘Ménilmontant’ (1926)

This silent French film, directed by Dimitri Kirsanoff, tells a raw story of two sisters grappling with trauma after a brutal murder. Its innovative editing, with quick cuts and striking close-ups, broke new ground in storytelling without relying on intertitles.

‘Ménilmontant’ showed filmmakers they could convey deep emotion through visuals alone. Its influence on montage and pacing can still be felt in modern cinema, especially in dramas that lean on imagery over dialogue.

9. ‘Suspense’ (1913)

Directed by Lois Weber and Phillips Smalley, this early American thriller follows a woman trapped in her home with her baby as an intruder threatens her life. The film’s pioneering use of split-screen techniques created tension that kept audiences on edge.

Its bold approach to suspense and gender dynamics laid the groundwork for the thriller genre. Weber’s work as a female director in a male-dominated era also inspired future filmmakers to challenge norms.

8. ‘The Seashell and the Clergyman’ (1928)

Germaine Dulac’s surrealist masterpiece dives into a priest’s obsessive desires, using dreamlike visuals to blur reality and fantasy. Released a year before ‘Un Chien Andalou,’ it set the stage for the surrealist movement in film.

The film’s experimental editing and symbolic imagery influenced avant-garde cinema. Its bold exploration of the subconscious continues to inspire directors who push narrative boundaries.

7. ‘Bread Day’ (1998)

Sergei Dvortsevoy’s documentary captures life in a remote Russian village, focusing on the communal effort to deliver bread. Its long, unflinching takes, including a ten-minute shot of villagers pushing a train car, redefined slow cinema.

This film’s raw, immersive style influenced the documentary genre, emphasizing patience and authenticity. It also sparked debates about the ethics of filming real-life struggles, shaping modern realist dramas.

6. ‘Daughter Rite’ (1978)

Michelle Citron’s feminist film blends home movies and staged scenes to explore memory, trauma, and family dynamics. It challenges traditional views of motherhood and questions how media shapes our perceptions.

By weaving personal and political themes, ‘Daughter Rite’ influenced feminist filmmakers to confront societal norms. Its innovative structure still resonates in experimental storytelling today.

5. ‘The Warrior’ (2001)

Directed by Asif Kapadia, this British-Indian film follows a warrior in rural India seeking to escape his violent past. Its stark visuals and emotional depth earned it a BAFTA for Outstanding Debut, yet it remains underseen.

The film’s focus on redemption and its blend of cultures influenced global cinema. It paved the way for directors exploring cross-cultural narratives with raw, human stories.

4. ‘The Ascent’ (1977)

Larisa Shepitko’s Soviet war drama follows two soldiers on a perilous mission during World War II. Its grueling depiction of survival and sacrifice carries a powerful Christian allegory, blending stark realism with spiritual depth.

The film’s intense visuals and moral complexity influenced war cinema and directors like Andrei Tarkovsky. Its emotional weight continues to inspire filmmakers tackling human resilience.

3. ‘Nightcrawler’ (2014)

Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Lou Bloom, a manipulative loner chasing the American Dream through unethical journalism in this dark thriller by Dan Gilroy. Its chilling take on ambition and media ethics struck a nerve.

‘Nightcrawler’ shaped modern crime dramas with its unsettling character study and sleek visuals. Its commentary on sensationalism remains relevant in today’s media landscape.

2. ‘The Void’ (2016)

This Canadian horror film, directed by Steven Kostanski and Jeremy Gillespie, blends sci-fi and creature-feature elements in a throwback to 1980s classics. Its eerie atmosphere and practical effects create a unique, unsettling experience.

‘The Void’ revived interest in retro horror, influencing a wave of low-budget, practical-effects-driven films. Its bold style continues to inspire indie horror creators.

1. ‘Napoléon’ (1927)

Abel Gance’s epic silent film about Napoleon Bonaparte’s early life is a technical marvel, using Polyvision widescreen and rapid editing to create a grand spectacle. At over five hours, it’s a rare watch today but a milestone in cinema.

Its ambitious scale and innovative techniques influenced epic filmmaking, from historical dramas to modern blockbusters. Directors like Sergei Eisenstein drew inspiration from its bold vision.

Which of these hidden cinematic treasures have you seen, or is there another under-the-radar film you think deserves a spot? Share your thoughts in the comments!