There are some movies that thrive on the hype of the moment. And once that moment passes, the film slips as a passing fad. But there are movies out there that still attract our interest even decades after their release. So what makes a classic? Whether it’s fast paced action, original plotlines, chilling after-effects, or innovative atmospheres, some films manage to stay afloat many years of motion pictures pileups. Here is a list of some of my favorite films, let me know if they make your list as well.
1) Shawshank Redemption: a beautifully nostalgic tale following the imprisonment of an intelligent banker. The plot in this film is nearly flawless and the story is very touching. The fact that this movie ranked first on IMDB’s list of the top rated films in cinematic history should tell you its worth. 
2) Full Metal Jacket: this is a movie focusing on the life of a young marine during the Vietnam wars. It’s a very well rounded story in my opinion, consisting of equal parts action, comedy, and tragedy, not to mention taking a look back at an important historical event.
3) American Psycho: Christian Bale plays an incredibly charming and intelligent businessman who lives a secret life as a serial killer. As his psychological struggles worsen, he begins to question the concept of an identity, all the while slowing losing his sanity to greed and disgust for his shallow acquaintances. 
4) One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest: I’m a huge fan of Jack Nicholson and this film, in my opinion, is one of his best. The bittersweet humor and latent nature of the story is what makes it so enchanting. I adore the characters in this movie and their quirkiness. This is the perfect movie for a Friday night.
5) The Lord of the Rings Trilogy: I can’t even begin to describe how amazing these movies are. This series is definitely a classic. If you haven’t watched these movies yet, you’re missing out big time.
6) Silence of the Lambs: Horror movie fans, this is your flick. A brilliant story completed with a courageous heroine, a charming sociopath, and a disturbingly interesting villain. This movie is both psychologically thrilling, and pensive in nature. The scare factor is pretty good, but doesn’t rely on jump scares or ominous music.
7) The Pianist: A very powerful film centering the holocaust. The story of a Jewish pianist’s survival in the unlikeliest environments. Clearly (since the movie is called the pianist), the music is absolutely stunning. The ending was beautiful and leaves the viewer thinking.