How do you make a list of Steven Spielberg’s top five movies? How? It’s nigh impossible – just eliminating entries to this list as we tried to whittle it down made us sob. But since he directed this weekend’s M-Net Sunday night movie, Ready Player One, we had to do it. Many may disagree with our choices, so feel free to hit us up on social media with your favourites.
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
No Steven Spielberg list would be complete without at least one Indiana Jones’ entry. There are four films in the franchise, each of them directed by Spielberg. But the first entry is by far the most superior. From rolling boulders to face-melting Nazis, this action-packed adventure backed by the rousing score of regular Spielberg collaborator John Williams, makes it a classic not only in Spielberg’s oeuvre, but in the whole world of film.
MORE HERE: Where are they now?
Jurassic Park (1993)
Another classic and a pioneer in the realm of visual effects, is Spielberg’s first dino entry. Four films have followed, only one of which was directed by the King of Entertainment. But none match the perfect blend of humour, suspense, and heart of the first one.
MORE HERE: Eight fast Jurassic facts.
Schindler’s List (1993)
This was a very good year for Spielberg. Not only did Jurassic Park stomp its way to box office success, but Schindler’s List was released, ushering Spielberg to a couple of Oscars in 1994. But the awards heaped upon this film are not the reason it qualifies. It’s the stark portrayal of the Holocaust told through striking black and white cinematography, poignant performances, and another masterful score from Williams.
MORE HERE: World War II movies.
Minority Report (2002)
It may not be a movie you find often on a Spielberg list, but as massive fans of Philip K. Dick it made ours. Based on one of the sci-fi writer’s short stories, it features a thought-provoking concept, an excellent cast in top form, heart-pounding action, and some pretty awesome futuristic gadgets.
MORE HERE: Ten TV series based on movies.
Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Although Spielberg’s work features a fair amount of films with heavy subjects, his trademarks include heart, warmth, happy endings, and pull-at-your-heartstring, feel-good feels. You need merely look at movies like E.T. and Hook to understand what we mean. Catch Me If You Can is no exception as Leonardo DiCaprio charms his way through the film as real-life character and con-man Frank Abagnale Jr.; while the film’s breathless pace lives up to its title and Amy Adams’ bubbly performance made everyone sit up and notice her.
MORE HERE: Why we love Leonardo DiCaprio.
Did we leave out your favourite Steven Spielberg movie? Let us know yours on Facebook or Twitter and watch Spielberg’s latest directorial feature, Ready Player One, your #SundayNightMovie on 21 April at 20:05 on M-Net channel 101.