The Top 15 Most Rewatchable Movies

For my July post, I’m going to discuss one of the most debated topics in many social circles: the most rewatchable movies.

Notice I didn’t say most rewatchable movies 'ever' or 'all-time'; nothing like that. This is my list, which means there’s bound to be choices with which you don’t agree; maybe even a few total head-scratchers — which is fine (How’s that saying go about opinions are like...?)

All that said, I did put this list together with some criteria in mind. First, please know my selections are, with the exception of only one ("Jaws"), from within my lifetime. You won’t find "Casablanca" or "North by Northwest". Second, this list is not a ranking. Rather, it’s listed alphabetically. It was hard enough narrowing it down to top 15. And about that ... why is the list 15 and not 5, 10 or 20? I felt comfortable with the list wrapping up at 15 and how it splits Tier One to what, in my mind, would be a Tier Two. Well, perhaps somewhat comfortable. Third, you’ll note only one comedy ("Trading Places"). Comedies, for me, typically aren’t as rewatchable as other movies because the jokes most often aren’t as funny the fifth and sixth time you’ve seen them. Fourth, and this is a key distinction, the movie had to be one that, no matter what I’m doing, if I happen by the TV and it’s on, I’m invested. I stop whatever it is I’m doing and I’m in for the rest of the way. It doesn't matter if there’s two hours or 20 minutes remaining. This is a great segue to my next vital criterion: it can’t have any skip-over scenes; every scene must be immensely rewatchable. That one’s a biggie. It’s why, unfortunately, you won’t find "Avengers: Endgame" on my list, though I love that film. Regrettably, "Endgame" has a couple of scenes that just didn’t do it for me (looking at you Howard and Tony Stark). Lastly, most, if not all, of my picks had cultural impact. Now, this isn’t a must-have. But I found it to be a common trait among them. So, without further ado, my Top 15 Most Rewatchables.

Avengers: Infinity War

Talk about jumping right in on the action! After setting the narrative in the previous 18 films of the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe), "Infinity War" begins with a bang and never lets up. Even as the story traverses the Marvel galaxy, every set piece keeps you enthralled. Thor’s grand entrance into Wakanda is in the argument for most rewatchable moment in cinematic history. Don’t take my word for it; YouTuber KewlKier alone has 27 million views of this scene. That’s just one user. Add to the fact (knowing Iron Man’s post-Endgame fate), we can better appreciate Tony's incredible swan song for what was a magnificent 11-year-ride. It’s not the best comic book film, but it’s in the discussion of best page-to-screen adaptations we’ve yet seen.

Back to the Future

'1.21 gigawatts!' Now, had I put these movies in numerical order, this might be number one. On top of having the zany aforementioned quote — one of the most memorable lines ever — "Back to the Future" is endlessly enjoyable and it introduced us to one of cinemas’ most beloved duos, Marty McFly and Doc Brown. Plus, who didn’t want a DeLorean (don’t forget the flux capacitor) after seeing this movie? Not only is it the textbook definition of fun, it quite possibly holds the title of ultimate summer movie blockbuster ... with an unforgettable theme song that takes us back in time, every single time. It’s a no-brainer on my list. And if any movie is undebatable, "Back to the Future" is surely one of the true few.

The Dark Knight

Speaking of dynamic duos. While there’s no Robin in this ensemble, "The Dark Knight" is the quintessential Batman film. It’s the perfect blend of crime noir and comic lore all wrapped into one; the premiere superhero movie (apologies "Infinity War"). More amazing, it gave us one of the most thrilling performances ever in Heath Ledger’s Joker, capped off, deservedly, by an Oscar win. And it may lay claim to the greatest opening scene of all-time — a scene so splendid, director Christopher Nolan confidently previewed the scene before the start of Will Smith's "I Am Legend". Some suggest it’s a movie that doesn’t know how to conclude; a film with multiple endings. Personally, I don’t see that to be a flaw. In that vein, it’s like a sweet dessert after a great entrée. The perfect way to end a night. Sure, Christian Bale’s almost gimmicky ‘Batman’ voice leaves much to be desired. Still, if that’s the only complaint — and indeed it is — then we can all die peacefully.

Die Hard

Another film with an exemplary quote: 'Yippee kai yay, motherf*cker!' It set the standard by which all other action movies would be judged. Post-release, every studio was trying to replicate the formula ("Die Hard" on a bus, "Die Hard" on a plane, "Die Hard" on a boat ... even "Die Hard" in a hockey arena). But, to date, there’s never been another. "Die Hard" is all four faces on the Mount Rushmore of action films; rightfully so. As soon as John McClane hears the first terrorist gun shot in Nakatomi Plaza, I dare you to find an clip not filled with intensity or suspense. Here’s a secret: you can’t. Also, has there been a villain more sadistic, yet more congenial to the moviegoing experience than Alan Rickman’s Hanz Gruber? Trick question: the answer is no. Now, if we could all just agree it's a Christmas movie, then the world would be a better place.

Edge of Tomorrow

I’ll assume this will serve as the first (I’m sure not the last) controversial entry. Obviously "Edge of Tomorrow" doesn’t have universal acclaim as others on this list. That said, it has the same enduring qualities of a rewatchable: relentless action, intriguing dialogue, terrific pacing, and two charismatic leads (Emily Blunt doing her best Ellen Ripley / Sarah Conner, and, in my opinion, Tom Cruise’s most underrated role). Brilliantly written in how it navigates the time loop, "Edge" delivers fresh fun with each new reset. Groundhog Day may have done it better. But the tremendous action, for me, is the key differentiator. 'On your feet, maggot!'

Gladiator

'Are you not entertained?!' If I keep this up, I’ll have to call this list the most quotable movies. But "Gladiator" is more than just Russel Crowe’s Oscar-winning performance. Each scene and every battle makes you feel like you’re really in Rome circa 180 AD. From the exhilarating escape in the frozen forest, to the history-reversing Battle of Zama in the arena, this is one period piece that stands the test of time. Not to mention, who doesn’t enjoy seeing Commodus get his just due? While the near incestuous sexual assault scene is hard enough to watch the first time, let alone the next 20, Gladiator still pushes all the right buttons each time I sit down to watch. (Note: I mentioned no skip-over scenes; the almost rape applies, but it's also, unfortunately, essential to the story.)

Jaws

Another great quote (No, really, this is starting to become a pattern), 'I think you’re going to need a bigger boat.' sets the stage for just how large and luminous is our aquatic antagonist. In the months after it swam into theaters, beach-going nationwide took a dive. But in the 45+ years since, "Jaws" is just as fascinating a revisit as the first bite. There likely wouldn’t be a Shark Week phenomenon or multiple rip-offs (and "Sharknado") if not for the original king of the sea. There are so many captivating scenes: some are hysterical, such as the late Robert Shaw’s anti-shark soliloquy; some are terror inducing, like Richard Dreyfuss’s postmortem report of the movie’s first victim; and my personal favorite … the retelling of the attack on USS Indianapolis. In true rewatchables fashion, "Jaws" is simply impeccable moviemaking for any and all generations.

John Wick

Has there been a plot device more simplistic than the bad guys killed our protagonist's puppy, which had been given to him by his now deceased wife who passed away from cancer’? Probably not. That’s the magnificence of "John Wick". They put on paper — if we’re to be honest — a silly concept, and started one of the greatest action franchises we’ve ever witnessed. Sticking to just the original, the first John Wick is like deep, dark poetry ... beautiful and gritty all at once. Beyond Keanu Reeve’s enigmatic titular character, the genius of "Wick" is in the realm they designed. Everything from the gold coins as form of payment, to the rules of the Continental. It’s a fascinating display of world-building; a splendor in itself. Oh, and I never get enough of Michael Nyqvist’s entertaining monologue on Baba Yaga.

The Lord of the Rings (Trilogy)

The entire trilogy? You can’t do that! Actually, I can. And I am. It's for sure cheating to not choose from "Fellowship of the Ring", "The Two Towers", or "Return of the King". But the entire three-movie, 11-hour marathon (nearly 13 hours if you watch the Extended Editions) is a smooth, seductive singular story. If ever I had a free Saturday from sun-up to sun-down (which a wife and three young kids almost guarantees will never be), I would explore Middle Earth once again in all its glory as one film experience. Aside from the first "Star Wars" saga, I'm not sure we've seen movie magic quite like what this superb trilogy offers. Too bad "The Hobbit" series couldn't conjure up the same results.

The Martian

I never thought I could have pirating explained to me in such a compelling, albeit fantastical, way. And that’s just two minutes of this 2.5-hour space romp. Stellar cast aside, and it is stellar, this is Matt Damon flexing his appreciable talent. Not quite Will Smith in "I Am Legend". Not up there with Tom Hanks in "Cast Away". He doesn’t have the whole screen to himself as did the two of them. But you sometimes forget that once he gets going. It's easily my fave Damon flick, particularly as a lead actor. And as good as he is, it’s Chiwetel Ejiofor who gets my nod for one of the most enjoyable performances from a supporting actor. I’m always thoroughly entertained how he goes from pensive to whimsical. I never seem to get enough of this Mars odyssey. I'm sure I never will.

The Matrix

Outside of "Die Hard", one can argue no production was more successful at baiting impressionable studio executives than "The Matrix". Groundbreaking. Mind blowing. Inspiring. And utterly entertaining. When I wrote earlier about cultural impact, this is the film that most comes to mind. It’s high-concept on steroids. And that's only matched by a refined delivery. Hard to find any flaws with this movie. Even harder to find a time to go to the restroom. Once the white rabbit appears, we’re off to the races. It’s a thrill ride you can’t get off; that is at least until the afterthought sequels arrive. Hopefully, the upcoming fourth film will imbue new life into the franchise. If not, the original will still remain a rewatchable.

The Shawshank Redemption

If I told you the storyline of a movie would see its male lead wrongfully imprisoned for two decades, then raped, beaten, and emotionally and mentally abused, you’d likely think it wouldn’t be a rewatchable. And you’d be incorrect. One of my criteria for this list was no in-order rankings. But I know for a fact Shawshank, had I done so, is Top 3-5 at worst. It’s that damn good. It dials up sympathy like few films can. We recognize life has given Andy Dufresne the shaft. Still, it’s waiting for the (very few) nuggets of joy during his confinement and, of course, his ultimate triumph — not to mention certain folks comeuppance — that has us returning to the journey, again and again; never to forget the beach in Zihuatanejo. It might also hold the title for most TV appearances on TNT and AMC.

Taken

Who could ever forget Liam Neeson’s warning? The most stoic exemplification of a complete badass I can ever remember. And he hadn’t yet begun! This is no-holds barred action like we’ve rarely seen. And before you question that, think about the last time you’ve seen the good guy shoot his friends’ wife to accomplish his mission. Once his daughter's kidnapping happens, this modern-classic, thankfully, never loses steam. Similarly to "The Matrix", "Taken" is also succeeded by two unnecessary cash-grab sequels. But no matter. Neither of those poor film executions takes away from Liam Neeson’s brilliant thrill-a-minute race to rescue his daughter. Sidebar: the scene of Neeson's Bryan Mills exacting his revenge on Patrice Saint-Clair, played by Gerard Watkins, is like a cold beer at a barbecue. It's refreshing every single time.

Terminator 2: Judgement Day

“DUH DUH DUH-DA-DUH ... DUH DUH DUH-DA-DUH”. When that iconic low, baritone score hits, you know it’s on! "Terminator 2" is on the very short list of best sequels of all-time, and an even shorter list of best sequels to follow a classic in its own right. At its launch "T2: Judgement Day" was easily considered to be the most advanced, technologically-sophisticated effect movie ever produced. Beyond being aesthetically pleasing, it’s an imaginative roller-coaster, full of high tension, adventure, heart, humor, and just flat-out fun. Best of all, it completely reinvents the narrative of the first (classic) Terminator and improves both the story and character arcs of not one, but two integral lead actors — Linda Hamilton and Arnuld. T2 may honestly be the rewatchable of all rewatchables.

Trading Places

Who would’ve thought 'one dollar' could offer so much enjoyment? Maybe the most famous wager to ever grace the screen, "Trading Places" made my Top 15 list, not because it’s the best comedy (it’s not — "Coming to America" wears the crown), but because it’s the best comedic film. The plot is more creative and elaborate than star Eddie Murphy’s other monster hit, but only a hair less humorous. Hell, even one of the most iconic and funny scenes from "Coming to America" is literally taken from "Trading Places" (the Easter egg of all Easter eggs), which speaks to the overall influence of this film. On it’s own, Murphy’s rags-to-riches pairing with Dan Ackroyd is Hollywood gold, from start to finish. Now, say it with me: “Lookin’ good, Billy Ray! … Feelin’ good, Lewis!”