Τhe 16 Best Classic Movies On Netflix, Ranked

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While Netflix is widely recognized for its vast array of original shows and movies, it’s worth noting that they also offer a treasure trove of classic films from the past. If you take a closer look, you’ll discover these timeless pieces tucked away among their collection.

The “Classics” section of your Netflix app may not always be overflowing with options, but it delivers a powerful punch by providing viewers with timeless films that have left indelible marks on cinema. This collection features movies dating back to the 1950s, directed by filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and John Singleton, and encompasses documentaries, romantic epics, coming-of-age stories, historical dramas, and many other genres. Several of these films have even taken home the prestigious Oscar for Best Picture, and each one has made a significant contribution to cinematic history.

If Netflix is your go-to and you’re craving some timeless cinematic masterpieces, here are the 16 top-rated classics currently available, listed from least favorite to favorite. Enjoy your viewing experience!

16. Legends of the Fall

A movie reminiscent of the classic Western films from American cinema in the 1950s, “Legends of the Fall” is most famously recognized today for Brad Pitt’s breakthrough performance – a role he nearly walked away from. Despite Pitt’s exceptional acting and striking good looks, it’s one of those movies that enthusiasts of ’90s cinema can’t seem to get enough of.

During the early 1900s in Montana, the story unfolds around Colonel William Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins) and his clan as they establish a self-made domain amidst untamed wilderness. Tragically, the family’s unity is shattered when one of Ludlow’s sons (Henry Thomas) perishes in World War I, causing deep sorrow for his brothers (Brad Pitt and Aidan Quinn). Their grief further intensifies as they grapple with a love triangle involving Julia Ormond. The film explores themes of family ties, the destructive patterns of recurring violence, and the struggle of love to endure amidst breathtaking Western landscapes.

Cast: Brad Pitt, Aidan Quinn, Anthony Hopkins

Director: Edward Zwick

Rating: R

Runtime: 134 minutes

15. The Karate Kid

One of the lasting pop culture sensations from the 1980s, “The Karate Kid” is a straightforward tale about standing strong, demonstrating that adversity can be overcome, and persisting to transform into a superior individual, yet it offers much more depth. The movie revolves around Daniel (Ralph Macchio), a newcomer in town, who encounters a gang of local tormentors who coincidentally are all karate students at the same dojo. In search of assistance, Daniel seeks out Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), who teaches him martial arts, ultimately leading to a climactic third-act confrontation.

It’s clear that many people are familiar with the narrative of “The Karate Kid,” whether they’ve watched the movie or not. Over time, this story has expanded far beyond its initial scope. Excluding the film sequels, its influence is also seen in the Netflix original series “Cobra Kai.” This show cleverly rejuvenated the “Karate Kid” narrative in a significant way.

Cast: Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, William Zabka

Director: John G. Avildsen

Rating: PG

Runtime: 126 minutes

14. An Affair to Remember

Currently, the oldest classic movie on Netflix is “An Affair to Remember,” which was produced in 1957. This timeless film offers a captivating tale that stands out as one of the most romantic stories ever captured on screen.

An Affair to Remember” tells the story of Nickie (played by Cary Grant) and Terry (Deborah Kerr), who cross paths on a transatlantic cruise ship sailing from Europe to America. Despite being committed to others, they develop a strong bond that blossoms into romance. As their relationship deepens, they make a vow to reconnect six months later, at the Empire State Building’s peak. However, unforeseen events complicate their lives, leading them to believe in destiny as they strive to reunite.

As a fellow enthusiast of timeless romances from the Golden Age of Hollywood, you simply can’t miss out on “An Affair to Remember”. This classic movie is renowned for its romantic charm, having been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the most romantic films ever crafted in Tinseltown. Remarkably, it served as the inspiration for director Nora Ephron’s masterpiece, “Sleepless in Seattle.

Cast: Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Richard Denning

Director: Leo McCarey

Rating: NR

Runtime: 115 minutes

13. The Sting

One of the most outstanding heist movies ever created is “The Sting,” offering a multilayered plot that keeps viewers engaged, features actors performing at their peak, and boasts a climax that remains etched in memory. This masterpiece was elegantly crafted by director George Roy Hill, delivering a timeless cinematic experience.

Paul Newman and Robert Redford play the roles of Henry and Johnny, two cunning swindlers devising what appears to be a grandiose scam. Instead of targeting valuable objects for theft, they aim to deceive a ruthless mob boss (Robert Shaw) into participating in their elaborate game. The heart of their scheme involves a fake gambling den, but the sheer complexity and magnitude of their con will leave you utterly surprised.

Back in 1973, I found myself utterly captivated by the release of “The Sting.” This movie turned out to be one of the most celebrated and successful films that year, racking up an impressive ten Oscar nominations and taking home seven, including the prestigious awards for Best Picture and Best Director (George Roy Hill). Looking back now, it’s clear that this heist picture has become a must-watch essential for any film enthusiast, serving as a testament to the raw star power that graced our screens.

Cast: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw

Director: George Roy Hill

Rating: PG

Runtime: 129 minutes

12. Apollo 13

If you enjoy space movies that are inspired by true events, then “Apollo 13” should definitely be on your watch list. This film, directed by Ron Howard, boasts an impressive cast and is based on a genuine NASA mission during which the crew faced one of the most dangerous incidents in human space travel history.

In a different cast, Tom Hanks portrays astronaut Jim Lovell, accompanied by Jack Swigert (Kevin Bacon) and Fred Haise (Bill Paxton). Their mission to the moon encounters an unexpected disaster, leaving them with depleting oxygen supplies and a failing spacecraft. The narrative oscillates between the crew’s harrowing experiences and the efforts of ground personnel trying to rescue them. “Apollo 13” stands as a timeless space thriller, with many elements closely mirroring the actual events. Even after three decades since its premiere, it continues to be celebrated as one of the finest space movies ever made.

Cast: Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton

Director: Ron Howard

Rating: PG

Runtime: 140 minutes

11. Silverado

Known primarily for penning iconic movies such as “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” and “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” Lawrence Kasdan, a legendary figure in the Star Wars universe, also demonstrates versatility as a filmmaker, with an interest in various cinematic genres.

1985 saw director Kasdan attempting to rekindle the spirit of the Westerns he cherished as a child through “Silverado.” This film tells the tale of a group of men who gradually join forces, aiming for wealth and eventually confronting a corrupt sheriff in the named town. The narrative commences with Scott Glenn’s character, Emmett the wanderer, and progressively escalates in both stakes and scale until the climax, where our endearing outlaws engage in a showdown against the wealthiest man in the region, a rancher backed by an army.

This movie boasts an impressive lineup of actors such as Glenn, Kevin Kline, Kevin Costner, Brian Dennehy, Rosanna Arquette, and Danny Glover. However, what sets it apart from the typical 1980s film isn’t just its star-studded cast, but also the fact that it delivers a timeless take on the Western genre.

Cast: Scott Glenn, Kevin Kline, Kevin Costner

Director: Lawrence Kasdan

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 132 minutes

10. The Thin Blue Line

If you’re searching for must-see documentaries, you might find some gems in Netflix’s collection of classics. Among these is a 1988 film, “The Thin Blue Line,” widely recognized as one of the most impactful documentaries ever made. This powerful piece was directed by Errol Morris and delves into the case of Randall Dale Adams, who was wrongfully convicted in 1976 for murdering a Dallas police officer.

By conducting interviews, reenacting scenes, and unveiling surprising truths, Morris delves profoundly into Adams’ case to question whether he truly was guilty of the crime for which he was sentenced. This film stands out as a pivotal event in the evolution of true crime documentaries. Initially sparking controversy upon its release due to its innovative use of reenactments to dramatize events, it is now widely recognized as one of the greatest documentaries ever made.

Cast: Randall Adams, David Harris, Gus Rose

Director: Errol Morris

Rating: NR

Runtime: 106 minutes

9. When We Were Kings

Hidden among Netflix’s classic collection, the documentary titled “When We Were Kings” tells an extraordinary sports story that stands among the best. After its debut in 1996, it was honored with the Academy Award for Best Documentary.

Over a span of more than two decades, Leon Gast created a film that goes far beyond the legendary heavyweight title match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, known as “The Rumble in the Jungle,” which took place in Zaire in 1974. Instead, the movie explores various aspects surrounding the fight, including the volatile political climate of Zaire during the 1970s, Ali’s unique charm and his ability to connect with African natives, as well as Foreman’s distinct strategies. This film, featuring interviews from boxing experts, cultural figures, and individuals who knew Ali personally in the 1990s, offers a fascinating exploration of not only an important historical moment but also how Ali’s extraordinary personality made him a globally recognized icon, transcending his skills as a boxer alone.

Cast: Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Don King

Director: Leon Gast

Rating: PG

Runtime: 84 minutes

8. She’s Gotta Have It

Spike Lee’s debut film, “She’s Gotta Have It,” holds significant value in cinematic history, primarily because it made Lee known to movie enthusiasts across the globe.

In my gaming world, this isn’t just an artifact from the past. It’s a captivating American dramedy where one woman (Tracy Camilla Johns) juggles three romantic interests, never committing to any of them while watching their reactions as they all yearn for her affection. Dropped in 1986, it marked Spike Lee’s arrival as a dynamic, vibrant new voice in American cinema, paving the way for future hits like “School Daze” and the legendary “Do the Right Thing.” To top it off, Lee doesn’t limit his involvement to writing and directing. He also brings his iconic character Mars Blackmon to life, debuting him in “She’s Gotta Have It.

Cast: Tracy Camilla Johns, Tommy Redmond Hicks, John Canada Terrell

Director: Spike Lee

Rating: R

Runtime: 84 minutes

7. Out of Africa

For those who cherish romance, “Out of Africa” is an unparalleled treasure trove. It boasts captivating protagonists, a rich historical backdrop, a breathtaking and moving setting, and the inevitable mix of joyful peaks and melancholic valleys, all beautifully encapsulated to make it one of the most applauded films in the 1980s.

The movie is based in British East Africa during the early 20th century and follows Karen (played by Meryl Streep), an attractive and intelligent woman who relocates to the continent to marry a nobleman. As time passes, she crosses paths with a captivating big game hunter (portrayed by Robert Redford). Despite the numerous upheavals in her life, their bond remains strong.

1985 saw the release of the critically acclaimed film “Out of Africa,” which dominated the box office that year. It went on to sweep the Oscars, garnering seven out of its 11 nominations, including awards for Best Picture, Best Director (Sydney Pollack), and Best Original Score (John Barry’s moving soundtrack).

Cast: Meryl Streep, Robert Redford, Klaus Maria Brandauer

Director: Sydney Pollack

Rating: PG

Runtime: 160 minutes

6. Grave of the Fireflies

While Hayao Miyazaki is undeniably a renowned figure in Japanese animated features, he’s not the sole brilliant mind to emerge from this field or Studio Ghibli. His creative counterpart and rival at Studio Ghibli, Isao Takahata, is equally deserving of recognition as one of Japan’s greatest animators. “Grave of the Fireflies” is a testament to his exceptional talent.

Inspired by real events during World War II’s last phase, the animated film “Grave of the Fireflies” tells the tale of two siblings struggling to endure amidst the destruction caused by allied bombings in their city. The movie’s poignant narrative about loss and survival is incredibly moving, making it difficult to rewatch due to its emotional depth. However, this timeless work of Japanese animation is indispensable and considered one of Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata’s greatest works, as well as one of the finest war films ever produced. Despite its challenging themes, “Grave of the Fireflies” offers a powerful viewing experience that should not be missed.

Cast: J. Robert Spencer, Rhoda Chrosite, Amy Jones

Director: Isao Takahata

Rating: NR

Runtime: 88 minutes

5. The Other Side of the Wind

One could say that one of the most remarkable cinematic accomplishments by Netflix is their completion of Orson Welles’ last film, “The Other Side of the Wind.” Originally filmed during the early 70s by the legendary director behind “Citizen Kane,” it starred John Huston as a character based on himself. For decades, this movie was known as an elusive treasure in the world of unreleased films. However, thanks to Netflix’s support, its revival occurred, and in 2018, audiences were given a glimpse into cinema history.

In a docudrama format, the movie narrates the final day of Jack Hanneford (Huston), who is surrounded by reporters and companions as he celebrates his birthday and previews segments of his unfinished, provocative new film. Initially, Welles envisioned this film to be his resurgence, but legal rights and financial complications kept it tangled in legal ambiguity following his demise for nearly five decades. Eventually, with Netflix’s support, producer Frank Marshall and director Peter Bogdanovich (who is also a part of the movie) completed Welles’ last significant project, resulting in an indispensable cinematic masterpiece.

Cast: John Huston, Susan Strassberg, Lilli Palmer

Director: Orson Welles

Rating: R

Runtime: 122 minutes

4. Awakenings

Penny Marshall is most recognized for her directing work in comedies starring Tom Hanks, such as “Big” and “A League of Their Own” today. However, it’s worth noting that she also produced one of the standout dramas from the 1990s. Based on a real-life account recounted in Oliver Sacks’ book, “Awakenings” is an adaptation that brings this story to life with two outstanding performances at its core.

Robin Williams portrays Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a neurologist who specializes in catatonic patients, one of whom is Leonard Lowe, played by Robert De Niro, who has been living as if time stood still for decades. With an experimental medication, Sayer successfully awakens the patients, offering them a second chance to engage with society after years of isolation. As their friendship deepens, Dr. Sayer faces increasing challenges from the unforeseen consequences of his groundbreaking work.

1990 saw the release of a standout film, “Awakenings,” which many believe to be Penny Marshall’s most exceptional directorial effort. The movie showcases extraordinary performances by both Robin Williams and Robert De Niro.

Cast: Robin Williams, Robert De Niro, Julie Kavner

Director: Penny Marshall

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 121 minutes

3. Boyz N The Hood

Among the significant movies produced in the 1990s, “Boyz n the Hood” continues to be a crucial coming-of-age story, crime drama, and a cornerstone of Black cinema. Moreover, it’s not only thought-provoking but also incredibly engaging, from its grand concepts to its subtle scenes.

The movie is based in South Central Los Angeles and focuses on a tight-knit group of friends: Tre (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.), a college hopeful; Doughboy (Ice Cube), a gang member; and Ricky (Morris Chestnut), a promising athlete. Raised in a challenging environment, they each appear to be heading towards brighter futures until the escalating violence in their neighborhood begins affecting their lives directly.

In 1991, John Singleton’s first directorial venture, “Boyz n the Hood,” was widely praised and eventually came to be seen as one of the standout films of that decade. This groundbreaking movie helped shape the cultural identity of Generation X.

Cast: Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, Laurence Fishburne

Director: John Singleton

Rating: R

Runtime: 112 minutes

2. Stand By Me

It’s understandable why so many people believe that “Stand By Me” is the top movie based on a Stephen King story, and this perception seems to grow stronger over time. Directed by Rob Reiner, who would go on to produce another renowned Stephen King adaptation, “Misery,” a short while later, the film is an adaption of King’s novella “The Body.” Despite its horror elements, it stands out as one of those classic King stories that delves beyond the realm of horror.

The movie transports us to the 1950s, where a band of companions embark on an adventure into the forest, seeking a corpse rumored to be unattended by authorities. As they journey together, they forge friendships, discover personal truths, and conquer their apprehensions. Starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Kiefer Sutherland, “Stand By Me” is a remarkable portrayal of childhood’s enchanting instances and stands as one of the top films from the 1980s.

Cast: Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman

Director: Rob Reiner

Rating: R

Runtime: 89 minutes

1. Schindler’s List

Over a professional journey lasting over half a century, Steven Spielberg has given us countless iconic American films, ranging from prehistoric creatures and extraterrestrial beings to human narratives set against pivotal historical events. Among these masterpieces, however, one stands out as the most significant achievement of his illustrious career.

In the backdrop of the tragic events of the Holocaust, “Schindler’s List” portrays Steven Spielberg at his saddest, most poetic, and most deeply profound. It’s a challenging film to watch, yet it endures as one of Spielberg’s masterpieces and a crucial movie about the Holocaust. The cast includes Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, and Caroline Goodall, among others. “Schindler’s List” was the most celebrated film of 1993, earning seven Oscars, including best picture, and is recognized not just as a significant film of the 1990s, but as one of the most important films of the 20th century.

Cast: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes

Director: Steven Spielberg

Rating: R

Runtime: 195 minutes

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2025-02-26 00:32