By Peyton Schultze

1985’s Back to the Future (via On All Cylinders). — 1985’s *Back to the Future* (via On All Cylinders).

Many of us have met that one person that we get along with great at first and it seems like you have a lot in common with. Whether it is a best friend, girlfriend, teammate or relative, things seem to be going great at first and the conversation starts strong. Yet upon further conversation, you quickly realize that this person is not a film fan or was not shown a ton of movies as a kid, and has not seen some of the most popular and iconic films every from your own childhood. With this, many of us find ourselves asking, “How have they not seen _?” or “What have they been watching instead?”

If you are one of those people that feels that they have not watched some of the best and most popular films of all-time, or you’re someone who wants to re-watch another all-time classic, here are some strong recommendations that you should watch by the time you hit college.

1982’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

(via A to Z Movies) — (via *A to Z Movies*)

It’s the quintessential coming-of-age film and perhaps director Steven Spielberg’s most touching film out of countless classics. One of Universal Pictures’ prized jewels, E.T. combines all elements that are part of growing up: aliens, friends and loss. In addition, the film’s bike ride over the moon remains one of film’s truly iconic shots accompanied by John Williams’ epic score. Watch for Elliott and ET’s impactful and strong relationship; stay for Spielberg’s expertise in usage of all types of human emotions.

1977’s Star Wars

It’s amazing how many people have not seen any film from America’s most popular and famous space opera franchise, but there are still a select handful that still have not. Although The Empire Strikes Back may be the better film, Star Wars (or what is now known as Star Wars: A New Hope) is the first and original episode of the nine part franchise. Combining some of the most notable special effects of all time with a basic, yet uniquely-American, storyline, Star Wars unfolds upon us as something that all people can relate to in some kind of way. Even with darkness and a large empire that seems to be dominating around the world, there is always a chance to rebel and win when the odds are stacked against you. No film in film history captures this key message better than George Lucas’ first sci-fi film, which is a must-watch for anyone.

1995’s Toy Story or 1999’s Toy Story 2 or 2010’s Toy Story 3

There’s no clear best choice for which Toy Story film that you must watch (the first is the safest best for an introduction to characters; the third is the best bet if you are about to head to college), but the franchise is Pixar’s best and most iconic. One of the great aspects about Toy Story is not just its playful use of real-life toys or its status as the film that elevated Pixar Studios, but its ability to make audiences sympathize with each of the characters. For many of us, the toys are a reflection of us individually and as a whole, combining real human emotions into the extended metaphors of toys. As time goes on and we begin to move into our later years, we’ll still always have two things by our side all the time: Sheriff Woody and Buzz Lightyear.

1981’s Raiders of the Lost Ark

(via That Moment In) — (via *That Moment In*)

Raiders of the Lost Ark quite simply may be one of the most kick-ass and awesome movies ever created, which is a two hour thrill ride that follows the adventures of cinema’s most notorious archaeologist, Indiana Jones. Whether it his exploits in a South American temple where he snatches the golden idol and runs from a massive boulder, or his daring escape from the Well of Souls in Cairo, Jones weaves his way in and out of trouble throughout the film. Indy is one of the best characters to ever hit the silver screen ,making Raiders one huge joy ride of a film.

1986’s Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

If there’s one John Hughes flick to watch at least once (and there sure are plenty), then Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is certainly the first choice. Starring Matthew Broderick in the title role as the rebellious Ferris Bueller, the film is one of the best high school films ever created. With a simple plot, memorable characters, and plenty of famous quotes to throw around, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is another example of one of film’s great characters that captures the film around him. Life moves pretty fast, so stop around and look for this one every once in a while.

2006’s Casino Royale

There are plenty of Bond films to go around, but Daniel Craig’s first go-around as Britain’s most famous spy is one of the most thrilling and intense out of the 24 part franchise. Craig’s first bout as 007 matches up quite well in comparison to other Bond greats who have represented the character, and his role in Casino Royale shows Bond as vulnerable, brash, and eager for more. Skyfall is another great film in the newest Craig-era, but Casino Royale captures the true imaginative spirit of everything we have come to know and love about Ian Fleming’s 007.

1975’s Jaws

(via The Best Picture Project) — (via *The Best Picture Project*)

Another famous Spielberg film on this list, Jaws is one of the most interesting and suspenseful films to ever hit the big screen. With acting legends such as Richard Dreyfuss, Robert Shaw, and Roy Scheider starring alongside the menacing shark near Amity Island, Jaws is a great choice for any kid’s first “scary” movie. Although the violence is kept to a minimum and the shark is rarely seen until the tail end of the film, Jaws is a cinematic wonder that still strikes fear in audiences even this many years later.

1985’s Back to the Future

(via Brothers Brick) — (via *Brothers Brick*)

It’s one of Hollywood’s most famous films with an entertaining cast, a memorable storyline, and arguably the most famous car in the history of film. With Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd starring as Marty McFly and Doc Brown, Back to the Future is simply one of the most fun films of all time from start to finish. The film is also one of the most rewatchable films ever, and it’s many outstanding components (similar to E.T.) have the film carved in the bricks of Universal Studios’ lore. Watch it now, tomorrow, or in fifty years: Back to the Future will forever be a cinematic joy ride.

1994’s The Lion King

(via All HD Wallpapers) — (via *All HD Wallpapers*)

Disney Animation has dished out plenty of all-time classics over the years, but The Lion King almost is always recognized as Disney’s best animated film. Although a live-action remake is currently in the works right now and slated for a summer release, the animated version of Simba’s life-long growth into replacing his father as the rightly king is a magnificent journey that serves as a representation of our own daily struggles as we transition into adulthood. Add in an outstanding soundtrack and great minor characters like Timon and Pumba, and The Lion King is a must-watch animated film for anyone of any age.

1979’s The Muppet Movie

There has been plenty of Muppet movies to go around over the years, but 1979’s original is an underrated classic that is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. It’s nearly impossible to dislike all of the Muppets, ranging from Kermit the Frog to Fozzie Bear to the extra Miss Piggy, and The Muppet Movie is able to capture the individual and collective spirit of Jim Henson’s iconic Muppets. They are certainly not as popular in the present-day culture of the country today, but there will always be room to raise the curtains and light the lights for the Muppets on any night.

1993’s Jurassic Park

Few films have wowed audiences for years more than 1993’s Jurassic Park. An equally technological and cinematic marvel, Spielberg’s iconic dinosaur film is a wild two hour ride with laughs, thrills and suspense throughout. In addition, the film’s raptors in the kitchen and T-Rex with the cars scenes remain some of the best scenes in film over the past 50 years and still keep viewers on the edge of their seat. Even with the rebooted franchise now following the storyline of Jurassic World, the original 1993 film is truly a masterpiece among film fans.

2014’s Guardians of the Galaxy

It is certainly Marvel’s quirkiest and most odd films out of their collection in their own cinematic universe, but Guardians of the Galaxy is a thrilling and hilarious film that makes it one of the better superhero films of the generation. Featuring an All-Star cast of scoundrels to go along with one of the best soundtracks in recent memory, Guardians of the Galaxy is one of the most unique Marvel films over the past decade that helped generate even more excitement and intrigue to the future of Marvel films. Guardians of the Galaxy is a true hit, and one that is a must-watch for any superhero fan.

2008’s The Dark Knight

It’s simply the best, and darkest superhero film of all-time. Yet in Christopher Nolan’s epic film, The Dark Knight, the stakes just seem higher and the threats loom larger for Gotham City’s Caped Crusader than in any other superhero film. As an exceptional example of the danger of America in a post-9/11 world, the film never just focuses on the main character’s heroics, but the struggles that everyone must face when it comes to making the right decision. In addition, Heath Ledger’s Joker is also arguably the best villain in cinematic history, making his truly special performance one that won him a post-humous Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Even so many years after its release, The Dark Knight truly remains the golden standard for all superhero films.

1998’s The Big Lebowski

The first and only rated R movie on this list, The Big Lebowski is one of the funniest and hilarious comedies of the ‘90s. With Jeff Bridges starring in the title role as “The Dude”, The Big Lebowski takes off as one of the most quotable films in recent memory featuring some outrageous antics from The Dude and his best friend, Walter. Bowling and replacing brand new rugs aside , we all abide that The Big Lebowski is a pure all-time classic.

2009’s Up

It’s mostly known for its sad and emotional opening sequence, but Up is an overall great film that is truly a sparkling gem in Pixar’s great collection of films such as The Incredibles and Inside Out. Although the opening ten minutes combine for some of the most memorable scenes over the past decade, Up develops into an emotional and touching film with important life lessons for everyone of all ages, young and old. The film is a whirlwind of emotions that has audiences in their feels throughout, yet Carl, Russell, and Doug find a way to soar to new heights in Up.

Any of the Harry Potter Films

(via Hello Giggles) — (via *Hello Giggles*)

While it’s hard to suggest which film of the Harry Potter franchise to watch, it is a safe bet to say that every film is its own unique film. With every coming year, the adventures of Harry Potter blossom into something brand-new with plenty of iconic scenes. Yet even though J.K. Rowling’s masterful creation of the Wizarding World has inspired a generation, the thing that makes Harry Potter so great is its true development of their characters in a literal and figurative sense, growing before our eyes with every films. However, if we had to suggest one, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone remains the most magical and stunning out of any in the film series with a young Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

1939’s The Wizard of Oz

Although it’s hard to find anywhere to watch it other than on cable television now these days, The Wizard of Oz is one of America’s finest examples of cinematic achievement. Combing the basic aspects of the known storyline with stunning visuals for a film developed in the late 1930’s, The Wizard of Oz is not just a solid film, but a culturally relevant one due to its place among American film lore. After all, Dorothy’s red slippers are even on display in the Smithsonian. It’s getting up there in age, but The Wizard of Oz has continued to wow audiences for years as an all-time classic.

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