The movies with the highest IMDb ratings are here! If you’re looking for a must-watch movie but are having trouble choosing from thousands of options, you’re in the right place. IMDb, which hosts the world’s largest database of movies, series, and television shows, is one of the most trusted platforms where viewers can find the best-rated productions.
We’ve prepared a list of the top 10 movies with the highest IMDb scores to help guide your next movie night.
Today, IMDb is one of the first places people turn to when searching for the best movies. The platform is known for its reliable rating system and comprehensive details, including cast, production team, biographies, summaries, trivia, user ratings, and reviews. With this list, we’ve compiled the best IMDb movies for your viewing pleasure!
Our list of movies with the highest IMDb scores includes the top 10 movies from the IMDb Top 250 and other highly-rated movies. While the “best movies” based on IMDb scores can be subjective, these are considered must-watch movies. Many websites also feature these titles as the best IMDb movies to watch.
We highly recommend exploring the must-watch IMDb movies from the list below. If you have any “must-watch movie” recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments section to help others find great movies.
The list consists of movies that have a rating of 8 or higher. Here’s the list of IMDb high-scoring movies that everyone should watch 👇.
1.The Shawshank Redemption
The Shawshank Redemption, directed and written by Frank Darabont, stars Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. Released in 1994, this movie is a crime drama that has earned its place among the best drama movies of all time, especially in the eyes of viewers. With millions of votes on IMDb, The Shawshank Redemption is consistently ranked as one of the best movies in the world.
Adapted from Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, the movie follows the story of Andy Dufresne, a man who maintains his innocence but is convicted of murdering his wife and her lover, leading to his imprisonment at Shawshank State Penitentiary. Although The Shawshank Redemption was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, it did not win any.
Information about The Shawshank Redemption
- Title: The Shawshank Redemption
- Director: Frank Darabont
- Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
- Release Year: 1994
- Duration: 142 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Drama
- Available Platforms: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 9.3/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Shawshank Redemption on IMDb
2.The Godfather 1
Starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, The Godfather is a 1972 movie adapted from the novel of the same name by Mario Puzo and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. This crime drama also features notable actors like James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, and John Cazale.
The Godfather narrates the story of the Corleone family, a powerful Italian mafia dynasty based in New York City. Along with four other Italian families, they dominate the city’s criminal world. What distinguishes the Corleones from the rest is their strong political connections. The movie was nominated for 11 Oscars and won three: Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Information about The Godfather 1
- Title: The Godfather
- Director: Francis Ford Coppola
- Cast: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan
- Release Year: 1972
- Duration: 175 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Available Platforms: Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 9.2/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Godfather on IMDb
3.Dark Knight
The script for The Dark Knight, the sequel to the 2005 movie Batman Begins, was directed by Christopher Nolan and written by the Nolan brothers. Based on the iconic DC Comics character Batman, this 2008 movie falls under the genres of action, crime, and drama. Many viewers regard it as one of the best action movies in the series.
Starring renowned actors such as Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Heath Ledger, Gary Oldman, Eric Roberts, Aaron Eckhart, and Morgan Freeman, the movie focuses on the characters Bruce Wayne/Batman (Christian Bale), Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), Rachel Dawes (Maggie Gyllenhaal), and Police Commissioner James Gordon (Gary Oldman), and their battle against crime. Their greatest challenge comes in the form of the Joker (Heath Ledger), who pushes Batman to his absolute limits, creating one of the most intense and difficult battles he’s ever faced.
The Dark Knight was nominated for 8 Academy Awards and won Best Supporting Actor for Heath Ledger and Best Sound Editing. It also received numerous other nominations and awards from prestigious organizations like BAFTA.
Information about The Dark Knight
- Title: The Dark Knight
- Director: Christopher Nolan
- Cast: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, Michael Caine
- Release Year: 2008
- Duration: 152 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
- Available Platforms: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 9.0/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Dark Knight on IMDb
4.The Godfather 2
The Godfather Part II, released in 1974, is the sequel to the first movie and was co-written by Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola. This crime and drama movie explores the complex dynamics of power and family, as Michael Corleone rises to an even more powerful position within the Corleone family.
As the story unfolds, we witness Michael’s efforts to protect his family while simultaneously being drawn into situations he never intended to be part of. The movie highlights Michael’s transformation into a more ruthless and calculating leader, but it also poignantly reflects his increasing loneliness and isolation.
The Godfather Part II was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 6, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Art Direction, and Best Music.
Information about The Godfather 2
- Title: The Godfather Part II
- Director: Francis Ford Coppola
- Cast: Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Robert Duvall
- Release Year: 1974
- Duration: 202 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Available Platforms: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 9.0/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Godfather Part II on IMDb
5.12 Angry Men
12 Angry Men, widely regarded as one of the best movies in history, was released in 1957. Directed by Sidney Lumet, this drama is adapted from Reginald Rose’s play of the same name.
The movie starts with the judge’s closing statement in a murder trial, instructing the jury that their decision must be unanimous. The jury is tasked with determining whether a young boy from a poor neighborhood is guilty of murdering his father. As the jurors deliberate in the jury room, they face a difficult battle against their own prejudices and biases. The movie masterfully explores themes of justice, doubt, and moral responsibility.
Despite being nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture at the Academy Awards, 12 Angry Men did not win any Oscars.
Information about 12 Angry Men
- Title: 12 Angry Men
- Director: Sidney Lumet
- Cast: Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley, E.G. Marshall
- Release Year: 1957
- Duration: 96 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Drama, Courtroom
- Available Platforms: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 8.9/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: 12 Angry Men on IMDb
6.Schindler’s List
Schindler’s List is a 1993 biography, drama, and history movie that depicts the rescue of over a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust, orchestrated by the Nazis during World War II.
The movie follows Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who was initially motivated by profit and had close ties with several SS officers. Schindler employed Jews in his factory, which produced goods for the Nazi army. However, as he witnessed the atrocities around him, Schindler could no longer stand idly by and took action to save as many Jewish lives as possible.
Starring Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, and Ralph Fiennes, Schindler’s List was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning in six categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Editing, and Best Music.
Information about Schindler’s List
- Title: Schindler’s List
- Director: Steven Spielberg
- Cast: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Caroline Goodall
- Release Year: 1993
- Duration: 195 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Biography, Drama, History
- Available Platforms: Check local listings for streaming availability (may vary by region).
- IMDB Rating: 8.9/10
- Language: English, Polish, German, Hebrew
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: Schindler’s List on IMDb
7.The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is a 2003 action, adventure, and drama movie directed by Peter Jackson. The movie, adapted from the second and third parts of J.R.R. Tolkien‘s The Lord of the Rings series, is regarded as one of the best war movies ever made.
The story follows Sauron‘s final attempt to conquer Middle-earth, with Gandalf and King Théoden of Rohan coming to the aid of Gondor. The movie also showcases Aragorn‘s quest to summon the ghost army for Gondor’s defense and Frodo‘s ongoing perilous journey to destroy the One Ring.
Ranked seventh on our IMDb best movies list, The Return of the King won an impressive total of 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Hair Design, Best Music, Best Original Song, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects.
Information about The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” (2003):
- Title: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
- Director: Peter Jackson
- Cast: Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Cate Blanchett
- Release Year: 2003
- Duration: 201 minutes
- Country: New Zealand, USA
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
- Available Platforms: Check local listings for streaming availability (may vary by region).
- IMDB Rating: 8.9/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King on IMDb
8.Pulp Fiction
Written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, Pulp Fiction (1994) has become a cult classic in the crime and drama genres. The movie stars well-known actors such as John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, and Tim Roth.
The story follows two professional hitmen, Jules Winnfield and Vincent Vega, who are tasked with eliminating a young man who tries to deceive their boss, Marsellus Wallace. Marsellus, in a separate plot, makes a match-fixing deal with Butch Coolidge, a boxer, who tries to flee without honoring the agreement. Meanwhile, Vincent is also asked to take care of the boss’s wife, Mia Wallace, while he is away. Despite these seemingly unrelated events, the characters’ paths cross in a chaotic and gripping sequence of events.
Pulp Fiction was nominated for 7 Oscars, including Best Picture, and won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
Information about Pulp Fiction
- Title: Pulp Fiction
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- Cast: John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, Bruce Willis, Ving Rhames
- Release Year: 1994
- Duration: 154 minutes
- Country: USA
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Available Platforms: Check local listings for streaming availability (may vary by region).
- IMDB Rating: 8.9/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: Pulp Fiction on IMDb
9.The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, directed by Peter Jackson, was released in 2001 as the first installment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Adapted from the first book in J.R.R. Tolkien’s renowned novel series, the movie spans multiple genres, including action, adventure, drama, and fantasy.
The story follows the emergence of the ancient One Ring, believed to be lost for centuries, and the perilous journey to destroy it. The movie marks the beginning of the epic quest undertaken by Frodo Baggins and his companions. Their mission to annihilate the One Ring represents the final hope for ending the Dark Lord’s reign and saving Middle-earth.
The Fellowship of the Ring garnered 13 Academy Award nominations and won four Oscars: Best Cinematography, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Original Score, and Best Visual Effects.
Information about The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- Title: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- Director: Peter Jackson
- Cast: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin
- Release Year: 2001
- Duration: 178 minutes
- Country: New Zealand, USA
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
- Available Platforms: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV
- IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
- Language: English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring on IMDb
10.The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
The 10th and final movie on our list is The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, a classic Western released in 1966. Directed by Sergio Leone, this iconic movie features a stellar cast including Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef, and Antonio Casale. The screenplay was crafted by Agenore Incrocci and Furio Scarpelli.
As the final installment in the trilogy that began with A Fistful of Dollars (1964) and For a Few Dollars More (1965), The Good, The Bad and The Ugly is a joint production of Italy and Spain. The story follows Tuco, known as “The Ugly,” an outlaw with a bounty on his head, and Blondie, “The Good,” a bounty hunter who initially betrays Tuco but later rescues him from a hanging. As Tuco seeks revenge, he and Blondie discover that the treasure they are after is also being pursued by Angel Eyes, “The Bad,” a notorious killer.
Though The Good, The Bad and The Ugly is celebrated as a masterpiece, it received only one major accolade: a 2nd place at the Laurel Awards in 1968 for Clint Eastwood’s performance.
Information about The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
- Title: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
- Director: Sergio Leone
- Cast: Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, Eli Wallach, Aldo Giuffrè
- Release Year: 1966
- Duration: 161 minutes
- Country: Italy, Spain, USA
- Genre: Western, Action, Adventure
- Available Platforms:Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV
- IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
- Language: Italian, English
- Trailer: Watch the Trailer on YouTube
- IMDb Link: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly on IMDb
We have reached the end of our exploration of IMDb’s best movies. In this article, we have highlighted some of the top-rated movies on IMDb, providing brief summaries and essential information about each. We curated a list of movies with the highest IMDb scores, aiming to offer movie enthusiasts excellent options for their next watch.
Our rankings are based on the IMDb ratings, which reflect the opinions of millions of viewers and critics, ensuring a high level of trust in these scores. We hope this list helps you discover some of the greatest movies ever made. If you have suggestions for other must-watch movies that should be included, feel free to share them in the comments section.
Thank you for joining us on this cinematic journey!
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