These Are the 20 Best Movies of All Time, According to Glenn Powell

Glenn Powell has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most charismatic leading men, but his love for cinema runs deep behind the scenes. The actor and screenwriter frequently refers to a wide range of influences, from gritty 1970s thrillers to classic musicals that shaped his understanding of performance. His list of favorites reveals a profound appreciation for storytelling that balances spectacle with intimate character studies. Here are the movies that Powell has praised as some of the greatest of all time.

‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’ (1969)

This Western classic follows two outlaws who flee to Bolivia to escape a determined posse. The film is renowned for the electric chemistry between Paul Newman and Robert Redford, whose dynamic set a high bar for buddy comedies. It blends humor with tragedy, creating a unique tone that redefined the Western genre for future generations. The exploration of friendship and inevitable fate remains a touchstone for cinema lovers. Its famous freeze-frame ending creates one of the most memorable conclusions in film history.

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

Set during the transition from silent films to talkies, this musical celebrates the joy and chaos of moviemaking. The film features incredible energy and the rigorous physical discipline of Gene Kelly’s performance. It captures a pivotal moment in Hollywood history with sharp wit and dazzling choreography. The movie stands as a testament to the enduring power of entertainment and the technical mastery required to create it. It remains one of the most beloved musicals ever produced.

‘Jurassic Park’ (1993)

Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi adventure brings dinosaurs back to life with groundbreaking visual effects that still hold up today. The movie masterfully combines terror with wonder, creating a theatrical experience that captivated audiences worldwide. It explores the consequences of genetic engineering while delivering high-stakes action sequences. The film’s legacy lies in its ability to make the impossible feel completely tangible on the big screen. It redefined the summer blockbuster and the possibilities of computer-generated imagery.

‘Top Gun’ (1986)

This high-octane action film introduced the world to the elite fighter pilots of the United States Navy. Tom Cruise’s iconic performance defined the concept of the modern movie star for decades to follow. The aerial sequences and intense camaraderie set a new standard for blockbuster filmmaking. It remains a quintessential piece of 1980s cinema that balances romance, rivalry, and adrenaline. The film’s lasting legacy is evident in its ability to spawn a massive cultural phenomenon.

‘Before Sunrise’ (1995)

Two strangers meet on a train and decide to spend one night walking around Vienna before parting ways. Richard Linklater’s direction captures naturalistic dialogue and the nuances of human connection. The film relies entirely on the chemistry between its leads, creating a deeply romantic and philosophical atmosphere. It serves as a masterclass in writing and performance that feels improvised yet meticulously crafted. The open-ended conclusion invites audiences to project their own hopes onto the characters’ future.

‘A Woman Under the Influence’ (1974)

John Cassavetes directs this raw and emotional drama about a woman struggling with mental instability and its impact on her family. Gena Rowlands delivers a powerhouse performance that is frequently cited as one of the best in cinema history. The film’s improvisational style gives it a sense of realism that is both uncomfortable and deeply moving. It provides an uncompromising look at human vulnerability and the complexities of domestic life. The narrative challenges traditional storytelling structures to focus purely on character dynamics.

‘The Godfather’ (1972)

Francis Ford Coppola’s crime epic chronicles the Corleone family’s transformation under the pressure of organized crime. The film is famous for its operatic scope and detailed exploration of power dynamics within a family unit. Performances by Marlon Brando and Al Pacino set a benchmark for dramatic acting that continues to influence the industry. It remains a definitive piece of American cinema that perfectly balances violence with emotional depth. The cinematography and score create an atmosphere of dread and grandeur.

‘The Long Goodbye’ (1973)

Robert Altman adapts Raymond Chandler’s novel into a satirical neo-noir set in contemporary Los Angeles. The film features a unique, wandering tone and Elliott Gould’s unconventional portrayal of detective Philip Marlowe. It deconstructs the traditional private eye genre, replacing stoicism with a shambolic charm. The visual style and cynical wit make it a standout entry in 1970s cinema. The narrative offers a critique of Hollywood culture while maintaining a compelling mystery.

‘Cool Hand Luke’ (1967)

Paul Newman stars as a prisoner who refuses to submit to the authority of a brutal chain gang. The performance is a definitive example of screen charisma and rebellious spirit. The film explores themes of nonconformity and the human cost of resisting an oppressive system. It contains some of the most memorable lines and imagery in film history, cementing its status as a classic. The religious allegory and anti-establishment message resonated deeply with audiences of the era.

‘All the President’s Men’ (1976)

This political thriller details the investigation by two journalists into the Watergate scandal that eventually brought down a presidency. The film is a masterpiece of dialogue and tension, proving that procedural work can be riveting. It demonstrates how rigorous research and conversation can be just as gripping as any action sequence. The movie remains a crucial text for understanding the power of the press and the importance of truth. Its lighting and set design authentically recreate the atmosphere of a busy newsroom.

‘Tootsie’ (1982)

Dustin Hoffman plays a difficult actor who disguises himself as a woman to land a role on a soap opera. The comedy balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine heart and social commentary. It explores the complexities of gender dynamics in the workplace with a sharp, satirical edge. The film examines themes of identity and performance within the entertainment industry. It remains one of the most acclaimed comedies for its script and ensemble acting.

‘Boyhood’ (2014)

Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, this groundbreaking drama charts the life of a young boy from childhood to college. The production’s dedication to capturing the passage of time authentically is unmatched in cinema. The movie avoids traditional dramatic plot points in favor of small, significant life moments. It stands as a unique cinematic experiment that offers a profound look at growing up. The narrative flows organically, mirroring the unpredictable nature of real life.

‘There Will Be Blood’ (2007)

Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a terrifying performance as a ruthless oil prospector consumed by greed and ambition. The film serves as an intense character study of a man who gains the world but loses his soul. Its stunning cinematography and haunting score create an atmosphere of dread and grandeur. The direction emphasizes the physical toll of labor and the isolating nature of power. It is widely regarded as a modern masterpiece for its uncompromising vision.

‘Magnolia’ (1999)

Paul Thomas Anderson weaves together multiple storylines in the San Fernando Valley over the course of one distinct day. The film is known for its ambitious scope and exploration of chance, forgiveness, and human connection. The ensemble cast delivers career-best performances in a narrative that is both chaotic and deeply emotional. It is a bold piece of filmmaking that takes narrative risks few other movies attempt. The musical score plays a central role in connecting the disparate characters.

‘Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb’ (1964)

Stanley Kubrick’s black comedy satirizes the Cold War fears of a nuclear conflict between the Soviet Union and the United States. The film thrives on absurdity and the brilliant multiple performances by Peter Sellers. It exposes the incompetence of political and military leaders with biting humor and terrifying logic. The movie remains one of the sharpest political satires ever made, finding humor in the darkest of subjects. Its visual style creates a stark contrast between the war room and the chaos unfolding above.

‘Cinema Paradiso’ (1988)

This Italian drama tells the story of a famous filmmaker recalling his childhood falling in love with pictures at his village theater. The narrative highlights a romantic view of cinema as a communal and transformative experience. It celebrates the magic of film projection and the lasting impact of mentorship. The emotional finale is widely regarded as one of the most touching tributes to the movies ever filmed. Ennio Morricone’s score adds a layer of nostalgia and longing to the story.

‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)

Two imprisoned men bond over a number of years, finding solace and eventual redemption through acts of common decency. The film’s patient storytelling and rich character development have earned it a permanent place in pop culture. It explores the resilience of the human spirit even in the most hopeless of circumstances. The narration provides a thoughtful perspective on time, hope, and institutionalization. It is frequently ranked among the most beloved movies by audiences worldwide.

‘Fight Club’ (1999)

An insomniac office worker and a charismatic soap maker form an underground fight club that evolves into something much more dangerous. The film offers a provocative examination of masculinity and consumer culture. It features a kinetic visual style and a twisty narrative that challenges the audience’s perception of reality. The movie became a cultural touchstone that defined the angst of the late 1990s. Its satire of modern life remains relevant and widely debated.

‘Everybody Wants Some!!’ (2016)

Set in 1980s Texas, this comedy follows a group of college baseball players navigating the weekend before classes begin. The film focuses on camaraderie, competition, and the simple joy of hanging out with friends. It serves as a spiritual successor to earlier hangout movies, celebrating the freedom of young adulthood. The story captures a specific youthful energy through its ensemble cast and nostalgic soundtrack. It avoids high stakes in favor of authentic character interactions and observational humor.

‘Twister’ (1996)

Storm chasers attempt to deploy a research device into a massive tornado in this disaster blockbuster. The narrative combines groundbreaking special effects with a sense of adventure that defined 1990s summer cinema. It captures the terrifying power of nature while focusing on a group of scientists obsessed with understanding it. The film is often praised for making the weather itself a terrifying and cinematic antagonist. Its blend of practical effects and CGI created a visceral experience for audiences.

Tell us which of Glenn Powell’s favorite movies you love the most in the comments.