One Flew Over The Best Movie Moments

A list with some of the best moments across cinema history. This is ordered chronologically of each film's release; therefore there is no ranking involved. I am also aware, that there are many movie moments which are renowned or celebrated which do not feature, however; I had to be strict in order to keep the post an appropriate length.

WARNING: SPOILERS

*****

Odessa Steps | Battleship Potemkin, 1925

One of the best films to example Soviet Montage, this is a style of film which relies heavily upon editing.

A line is formed at the top of the steps with soldiers from the Russian Empire who march towards a crowd of unarmed civilians. This celebrated scene manages to dissect the individual from a crowd using the style of montage editing.

If you watch closely you can clearly see the flicker between masses of people and the cut to an individual. The fast editing helps create intensity but also conjures emotion because by shifting to the singular person it paints their story. It presents the ideology that perhaps this isn't just a race, a crowd doesn't have an identity. Therefore cutting to mothers, children and ordinary civilians evokes sentiment and demonstrates the severity of conflict.

Hitchhiking | It Happened One Night, 1934

Frank Capra's screwball comedy was the first film to ever win all five major Academy Awards - Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress and Screenplay.

This scene is delightfully charming and perfectly depicts that battle-of-the-sexes factor within a screwball comedy. This sub-genre of film became popular during the Great Depression and usually consists of the female dominating the relationship, leaving the male's masculinity challenged.

Gable is excellent.

Somewhere Over The Rainbow | The Wizard of Oz, 1939

An Academy Award winner for Best Original Song as well as Garland's signature song.

It is very had to believe she was only sixteen when she portrayed Dorothy Gale in one of MGM's greatest musicals of all time. This scene is simply iconic and still upholds it's legendary charm through generations nearly eighty years later.

Theft! | Bicycle Thieves, 1948

Vittorio De Sica's Italian Neorealist film is a true work of art.

Italian Neorealism is a film movement characterised by stories set amongst the poor and the working class, filmed on location as well as frequently using non-professional actors. These films often depict the difficult economic and moral conditions of post World War II Italy, representing the conditions of everyday life and injustice. Consequently, the complete opposite to the commercial films coming out of Hollywood at the same time.

Bicycle Thieves was shot on the streets of Rome with unprofessional actors to enhance authenticity. There was much criticism towards this movement as it shrouded a negativity that people after the war did not want to dwell upon. However, these filmmakers defended their work by stating that this was the mood of their country, it was authentic and truthful.

This scene is very symbolic. Antonio has finally found a job which means he can now provide for his family. He paints posters onto walls in the city using a bicycle for his travels. He begins to paste a poster of Rita Hayworth on the wall - Hayworth was a famous Hollywood actress, who at the time was a massive sex symbol. During this scene, Antonio's bicycle gets stolen. Rita Hayworth symbolises the the commercial American movies, and it is very convenient that his bicycle gets stolen at this point. This highlights Italy's depression, and the stolen bicycle reflects an Italy that will never return; war is so damaging that the country can not be what it once was.

Rain Dance | Singin' In The Rain, 1952

A truly magical cinematic moment.

Singin' In The Rain offers a depiction of Hollywood in the late 1920's and the transition from silent films to 'talkies'.

This scene is uplifting, joyous and Gene Kelly is effortless. Other excellent scenes from the movie are: "Fit As A Fiddle" and "Make 'Em Laugh".

Sugar's Entrance | Some Like It Hot, 1959

Is there a better way to demonstrate Monroe's ora than with this movie moment?

During this scene we witness her character, Sugar, entrancing the movie for the first time. Notice the instant shift to sexy, Jazz-esque music to portray her sex appeal. The soft, white light which subtly hovers above her, presents an angelic glow.

Then finally, the emphasis on her walk told through the camera and screenplay. The eye of the camera captures her hip and leg movement, whilst Jack Lemmon actually comments by saying "look how she moves, it's just like jello on springs, must have some built in motor or something". Altogether emphasing her effortless sultry charm.

Another fantastic screwball comedy, but by the incredible Billy Wilder.

"She wouldn't even harm a fly." | Psycho, 1960

It was a tough one deciding between this and the classic shower scene. The whole film for me personally, is perfect; and Anthony Perkins is just extraordinary.

This was my first Hitchcock film, and it certainly blew me away. The finale is an excellent movie moment. When I first watched it I prayed that Bates was going to break the fourth wall, his eye contact moves around a lot. I kept telling myself "look at us, please look up to us", and that moment when the eyes flicker up down the camera lens with his harrowing grin, I knew truly that Hitchcock was the master...

Opening Scene | Breakfast At Tiffany's, 1961

Ugh, just iconic, iconic, iconic!

A romantic drama involving a young socialite and an ambitious writer, Hepburn's charm and image makes this film a classic.

I will always love this film and I will always love Audrey Hepburn.

I think everyone will.

The End of Bonnie and Clyde | Bonnie and Clyde, 1967

Probably the most significant ending to a movie ever!

Bonnie and Clyde is a landmark film because it broke many cinematic taboos. It encouraged the beginning to many independent films as it prompted filmmakers to exploit sex and violence, which certainly hadn't been illustrated in cinema before due to the Production/Hays code. Warren Beatty also played a huge part in the films production.

The film has been cited as major influences for The Godfather (1972) and Natural Born Killers (1994).

"Do you feel lucky, punk?" | Dirty Harry, 1971

I think everyone knows that Clint Eastwood is super cool.

Can any guy shoot six bullets with a mouth full of hot dog and still look awesome?

I think not.

The Killing of Sollozzo and McCluskey | The Godfather, 1972

Al Pacino is insane in this scene. In fact, that's a false statement, Al Pacino is insane in this movie!

He has this talent where he can just look and you know not to interfere in this man's business. He can be angry and menacing with just a whisper. In this scene, when he returns to the table after going to the bathroom, his acting is all with his eyes. Just with his eye contact we can read his mind processing and calculating.

It is genius.

"It Was An Abortion!" | The Godfather Part II, 1974

News flash! Al Pacino is also insane in the second movie! He is the actor who I think is most consistent across their own body of work. Although all of his films are not always consistent, his performances certainly are.

In this scene witness Pacino flip out!

Phone Call | Dog Day Afternoon, 1975

I love Pacino's ability to switch moods in 0.01 second. For me, this scene is weirdly comical when he has to reassure his wife she isn't fat and then snaps; telling her to shut up because he can't stand listening to her any longer.

What I also love about this scene is that Pacino nailed the take in just a few tries, but director Stanley Lumet, made the actor repeat it again and again, so that he was genuinely exhausted. It creates a sincere reason for Pacino to snap as well as tipping him over the edge.

First Victim | Jaws, 1975

I was torn between discussing the famous "You're gonna need a bigger boat" or the ad-libbed comparing scars scene. But I decided on the opening sequence.

I mean, what a way to begin a movie. This demonstrates a great use of music to generate a thrill as well as creating a new filming technique by accident! The shark being used for the film was a machine and was supposed to reveal itself in this opening, however it was suffering mechanical problems and therefore, Spielberg used a new technique.

He used the camera as the eye of the shark so we see from it's perspective. This was ground breaking and plays as just one contributing factor (of many) for why this is credited as the first movie 'blockbuster'.

"You talkin' to me?" | Taxi Driver, 1976

This movie moment is really interesting, it is almost like a monologue or soliloquy - something that goes right back to Shakespearean plays. Travis speaks his thoughts aloud to himself in front of the mirror.This creates almost an invasion into his mindset and an intimacy as our protagonist unravels his fractured mind.

If you think about it we seem to always remember certain lines from monologues or soliloquies, for example: "O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?" Therefore, it is no surprise this line is so memorable.

"Where's your hat?" | Rocky, 1976

Another example of why Rocky is a love story.

The final scene to the movie is an emotional one, Rocky goes the distance in the ring with Apollo Creed and when the bell rings he calls for Adrian. As she runs towards him she looses her hat amongst the crowd and once she finally gets to him the first thing he notices is her hat missing.

I think people forget Stallone once wrote one of the most romantic lines in cinema history.

Binary Sunset | Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, 1977

So simple, yet so effective.

Hearing the sound of the force whilst young Luke Skywalker looks toward the twin suns at sunset, amongst the Tatooine deserts, is truly breathtaking.

There's nothing more to say than if you want to feel the power of the force, watch this epic movie moment.

More Than A Woman | Saturday Night Fever, 1977

There's only one man who can pull of a white disco suit...Travolta is effortless, bold and oozes with cool, classic 70's rhythm.

Accompanied with a great Bee Gees number, this scene is easily my favourite cinematography for a dance sequence. Just from watching this movie moment it comes to no surprise that Saturday Night Fever encouraged the disco sound to go from underground to mainstream.

This film will forever be aesthetically significant as its fashion, dance and music transports us to a time of boogie nights. The "More Than A Woman" scene serves as a great example.

Chestburster | Alien, 1979

One of the best science-fiction movies of all time!

This is all about the reaction of the cast, only John Hurt knew what was going to come out of his chest, therefore all the actors on set have a genuine reaction. How awesome!

"I am your father!" | Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, 1980

Does this one really require discussion?

"Give me the bat Wendy!" | The Shining, 1980

Of course "Here's Johnny!" is an obvious contender, however I think this movie moment is purely spine chilling. Nicholson is psychotic, when he states "Wendy... darling... light of my life" it is just acting at its absolute best.

However, I also feel Shelley Duvall is highly underrated in this film. Of course it is understandable being on screen with Nicholson. But she is also incredible. Her performance is so authentic, and Nicholson once stated that he has never seen an actress work so hard on set - Kubrick drove her crazy with exhaustion.

Opening Sequence | Raging Bull, 1980

So many great movies made in the year 1980!

Enjoy a beautiful opening title sequence of De Niro shadow boxing which correspondences nicely with the black and white aesthetic. Robert De Niro certainly deserved his Oscar for Best Actor as he demonstrates method acting at its finest.

Across The Moon | E.T: The Extra-Terrestrial, 1982

An alien and young boy, named Elliot, befriend each other in this emotional tale of loving friendship.

Spielberg captures yet another iconic movie moment against a fantastic John Williams score when Elliot and E.T. fly across the moon.

The Final Essay | The Breakfast Club, 1985

The adolescence movie.

Five high school students: the brain, an athlete, basket-case, princess and a criminal all endure a Saturday detention in this coming-of-age comedy-drama. During the movie we find out the truths behind each character; by the end, leaving the characters questioning if the school divides will ever be the same again.

The movie is a staple, Simple Minds' "Don't You Forget About Me" and the "Brat Pack" will forever be associated with John Hughes' picture.

The Death of Sgt. Elias | Platoon, 1986

Emotional, captivating and powerful.

Nicknames | Full Metal Jacket, 1987

Sergeant Hartman is one of the most savage and ruthless characters I've come across in cinema (you will see later on, another character who I think is on par with this dude!)

I love this scene because the screenplay and R. Lee Ermey are incredible!

Max Cady seduces Danielle | Cape Fear, 1991

The big bad wolf and little red riding hood.

Max Cady emerges from a candy house, set amongst a forest, in the drama theatre where Danielle comes to meet him. When he seduces her it conjures to mind the classic fairy tale. The brace and bows in her hair illuminate her child-like qualities while De Niro's long locks and tattoos mirror a 'bad wolf' image.

De Niro and Lewis are fantastic.

Pitch Black | The Silence of the Lambs, 1991

I remember when I found out that this scene was shot in daylight and I realised Foster's acting was pretty insane. I was convinced totally that this was shot in pitch black!

Clarice's first encounter with Hannibal Lecter is another great movie moment. Hopkins was originally told to be lying or sat down when we first visit his cell, however; he told director, Jonathan Demme that he should be standing. When asked why, he replied by saying that "I can smell her"...a confirmation that Hopkins is actually a psychopath!

The Silence of the Lambs was the third film to win the big five, the second being One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest (1975). It is also the first (and so far only) Best Picture winner widely considered to be a horror film.

"You can't handle the truth!" | A Few Good Men, 1992

Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson will leave you with goosebumps when you see these stupendous performances !

Ear Amputation by Mr. Blonde | Reservoir Dogs, 1992

Michael Madsen is effortlessly cool when working with Tarantino. Although "Like a Virgin" at breakfast is screenplay heaven, Mr. Blonde's ear amputation however; is a clear winner.

Meeting Drexl | True Romance, 1993

Although the Sicilian scene is Tarantino's proudest writing moment ever, and is executed perfectly, I can't help but choose this is as my favourite moment from the movie. Gary Oldman is ridiculously impressive.

When Tony Scott approached Oldman for the part, he was unsure on whether to accept the offer. He asked about the character anyway and Scott explained that he is a pimp who thought he was black; Oldman replied "I'll do it".

Mental Torture | In The Name of the Father, 1993

One of my favourite male performances, Daniel Day-Lewis received an Academy Award nomination for his role in In the Name of the Father.

Everyone needs to see this movie, Andrew Garfield revealed in an interview that this was the movie that made him cry.

A powerful movie based on a true story.

Jack Rabbit Slims Twit Contest | Pulp Fiction, 1994

Argh, this was so difficult.The opening scene is fantastic, "Royale with cheese" demonstrates a new shift in screenplay never seen before and then the Big Kahuna burger scene is just Samuel L. Jackson at his best. But, the Jack Rabbit Slims Twist Contest is legendary.

I don't understand how Tarantino nails music and style every time. This scene should be cringeful, but it's just not. It is undoubtedly cool.

Thurman and Travolta are great together on screen.

Beethoven | Leon: The Professional, 1994

Oldman is spine-chilling!

"I like these calm little moments before the storm", what a way to build up a huge massacre. My favourite moment is when Gary Oldman walks through the beads and the music shifts. A character with truly no mercy.

Natalie Portman is also worthy of a mention, my favourite performance of hers.

The Greatest Plot Twist There Ever Was | The Usual Suspects, 1995

WARNING: spoilers!

This is a jaw dropper for sure. I definitely was not expecting this the first time my dad sat me down to watch it!

Please only watch this scene if you have seen the movie.

"What's in the box?!" | Se7en, 1995

Kevin Spacey back to back!

Both Spacey and Pitt are amazing in this movie. The suspense of "what's in the box?" builds and builds until we too are just as frustrated as Pitt's character.

The close up shots of Brad Pitt with the tears in his eyes are truly beautiful. "What's in the box?" will always remain a memorable movie moment.

Star-Crossed Lovers Meeting | Romeo + Juliet, 1996

This scene is done so beautifully. A Montague and Capulet's first meeting through a fish tank may look pretty, but it is a great use of dramatic irony. When Romeo and Juliet meet they are between a glass barrier, although the characters are unaware, we are know their love is forbidden due to the families rivalry. The fish tank immediately foreshadows the inevitable barrier stopping their love from ever being socially acceptable.

Juliet is in white with elegant angel wings to highlight her purity and angelic beauty. Whilst Romeo channels a knight attire to portray his bravery. It is also symbolic because Juliet is miserable in her arranged marriage to Paris and Romeo sweeps in (literally) like a knight in shining armour! This is why I love Baz Lurhmann because his film is art. Whether that be through speech, dance, song or costume.

The acting is also worth a mention, with both DiCaprio and Danes delivering their lines brilliantly.

"I'm flying" | Titanic, 1997

What an iconic scene this is.

The sunset sky alludes to an inevitable romantic spark forming. As the sun comes down it kisses the horizon, this perhaps illustrates the breaking down of division between the social classes as Jack and Rose kiss. Winslet's character is in the upper class, like the sun which shines mighty high in the sky, whereas the line of the horizon remains underneath until at the point of sunset when they elope. It is a pretty abstract analogy but I like to think it holds some validity.

Everything in this scene is iconic, the music; the "I'm flying" quote and even the position in which they stand with their arms open.

Imperfections | Good Will Hunting, 1997

Matt Damon and Robin Williams explore the philosophy of perfection.

According to imdb, lines in this scene were ad-libbed by Williams which is why Damon is laughing so hard. If you watch the scene carefully you can notice the camera shaking slightly, his is possibly due to the cameraman laughing as well.

Omaha Beach | Saving Private Ryan, 1998

The movie scene cost eleven million dollars to shoot, and involved up to 1,000 extras. Many war veterans have congratulated Spielberg on his authenticity.

It is a moment in cinema that cannot be explained, you just have to simply watch it.

Hip To Be Square | American Psycho, 2000

Watching American Psycho was one of the strangest movie experiences for me. I have never hated a character as much as I do Patrick Batemen; however, I could not stop watching Bale. You know the guy's done his job if you hate a character with such passion. His performance is insane and the dark comedy adds a brilliant touch to the movie.

I love that Bateman is derived from the main character of the movie Psycho (1960) and the fact that during production, Christian Bale followed the morning routine that his character describes towards the beginning of the film. However, what I find most interesting is that this performance is based on Tom Cruise.

According to imdb, Bale was looking for a way to create the character of Batemen and stumbled upon a Tom Cruise interview on The Late Show with David Letterman (1993). According to American Psycho (2000) director Mary Harron, Bale saw in Cruise "this very intense friendliness with nothing behind the eyes" and Bale subsequently based the character off of that. Interestingly, Tom Cruise appears in the novel; he lives in the same apartment complex as Patrick Batemen, who meets him in a lift and gets the name Cocktail (1988) wrong, calling it "Bartender".

Tiny Dancer | Almost Famous, 2000

Cameron Crowe is great at uplifting moments in his films.

William Miller, an ordinary fifteen year old, high school boy; is given the opportunity to write a story for Rolling Stone Magazine about a new rock band surfacing. The film depicts life on the road with 'non groupies' and destructive relationships.

Come What May Finale | Moulin Rouge!, 2001

Baz Luhrmann's tragic tale of love, set during the flamboyant Bohemian revolution, is simply Spectacular! Spectacular!

The "Come What May" finale is romantic, elevating and a tear-jerker. Unfortunately the song was snubbed at the Oscars for Best Original Song as it was originally written for his adaption of Romeo + Juliet (1996).

Enjoy the twists and turns of Paris' drug and prostitution infested underworld in the year 1899. Nothing is more exhilarating than the night club - Moulin Rouge!

The Shadow of the Past | The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, 2001

"Is it secret? Is it safe?"

In this scene Frodo Baggins is told the history of the One Ring by Gandalf the Grey. The movie takes a dark shift as hobbit, Frodo, learns that the markings on the ring is language from the land of Mordor...

"One ring to rule them all, one ring to find them, one ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them." - Ian McKellen is stand out in this scene.

Other epic moments from the first instalment include: Flight to the Ford; The Council of Elrond/The Formation of the Fellowship; Boromir's death and the Breaking of the Fellowship with Frodo and Sam.

Aragorn's Coronation | The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, 2003

A scene held very closely in the hearts of all Lord of the Rings fanatics.

Aragorn is crowned King of Gondor and reunites with Arwen, Lady of Rivendell.

Other epic moments from the trilogy include: Gandalf Returns In Fangorn Forest; The Battle of Helm's Deep; The End of All Things, The Fellowship Reunited and Frodo's Departure from Middle Earth to the Gray Havens.

That Car Chase | Death Proof, 2007

Zoe Bell is awesome. Most probably my favourite movie stunt ever, this moment is a jaw dropper. The music used during the car chase mimics a retro 70's show and it works - well of course it does, it is a Quentin Tarantino direction after all.

What makes this truly thrilling is that Bell's adrenaline fuels the screen, a stunt woman in real life, she is used to masking her enjoyment behind actors characters. In the movie she plays essentially herself, therefore she is able to express her enjoyment. She first collaborated with Tarantino in 2003 for the Kill Bill series playing Uma Thurman's stunt double. When she was asked to do Death Proof she accepted - assuming she would be an extra. It was only when she saw the movie poster she realised he had written her a role in the movie.

Death Proof receives mixed reviews, Tarantino himself has confessed this is his weakest work out of his filmography but he is still very proud of it. I think it is genius, I really enjoy the B movie aesthetic during the beginning narrative. The scratch filter and deliberate sketchy editing contributes to its style. Once we find out the truth of Stuntman Mike's twisted personality, the film shifts to black and white - a genius way of changing the mood and tone immediately. However as soon as his character exits the screen, BOOM we are into a new story and a new aesthetic.

When watching the film I assumed the second half would become weaker and I find it doesn't at all. We are treated with a hilarious screenplay, unreal fast paced action scenes as well as three badass women.

Tarantino does an excellent job of exploiting niche genres.

The Jew Hunter | Inglourious Basterds, 2009

My final Tarantino movie moment, but boy it's a good one!

He almost channels a Hitchcockian 'calm before the storm' or build up of suspense in this opening scene to Inglourious Basterds. Christoph Waltz is menacing, although I personally prefer his performance in Django Unchained (2013) he is nothing short of fantastic. Therefore it is no surprise he received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in both of these films.

Ending | Inception, 2010

How does one even begin making a film this complex?

When my boyfriend fell in love with this movie and told me to watch it, I never expected to be as moved as I was. It is so ambitious and the story so rich. In this final scene the score from Hans Zimmer is fantastic by building up the climax of Leonardo DiCaprio's character seeing his children's faces.

Nolan makes not just an incredible movie, but a touching experience.

19 Years Later | Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, 2011

Another movie moment to make you cry.

I think every Potterhead will agree this last moment with Ron, Hermione and Harry standing side by side whilst "Leaving Hogwarts" blasts over the top is the most perfectly sentimental way to end the franchise.

Charlie's Last Letter | The Perks of Being a Wallflower, 2012

Socially awkward teen Charlie is a wallflower, however he learns the joys of friendship from Sam and free-spirited brother Patrick. A really special moment for the coming-of-age movies.

This speech is important to so many teenagers, Charlie is hope and a best friend to everyone.

In this movie expect a cool, retro soundtrack consisting of: David Bowie, The Smiths and Dexys Midnight Runners.

Lets Go Fly A Kite With P.L. Travers | Saving Mr. Banks, 2013

You'll need a box of tissues for this one!

Emma Thompson plays P.L. Travers in this beautiful telling of how Walt Disney gained the rights to her novel Mary Poppins.

This scene is just one example of the emotion shrouding the movie. Unfortunately, Thompson was snubbed of an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film.

In my opinion, the best movie of 2013.

Out-of-tune | Whiplash, 2014

Yes, it's J.K. Simmons' character in Whiplash who is the other savage and ruthless performance!

Damien Chazelle's awesome drama about the relationship between an ambitious jazz student and his unmerciful instructor. Incredible screenplay and performances.

Enjoy my favourite scene from the movie!