#1 summer movie the year you graduated high school

Summer is an exciting time in Hollywood, when big-budget movies with wide appeal are often released. It means school’s out, and film lovers can frequent their local theaters in droves. In 2024, they did just that—bringing in $3.6 billion at the box office between May 3 and Sept. 2, according to Box Office Mojo data. 2025 promises another summer of exciting blockbusters for moviegoers, from superhero pics like “Thunderbolts” (due out on May 2) to horror sequels like “28 Years Later” and “M3GAN 2.0” (both of which will premiere in June).

Movies have been a defining part of the summer experience for decades since Steven Spielberg pioneered the modern summer blockbuster in 1975. With his seminal summer horror film “Jaws,” Spielberg changed the filmmaking landscape. Hollywood had been in a transitional period following the studio system and Hollywood’s Golden Age. But, after “Jaws” and the introduction of the “Movie Brats,” a core group of emerging American directors including Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, George Lucas, Brian De Palma, and Francis Ford Coppola, the American film industry entered an exciting era defined by ambition, creativity, and soaring box office sales.

Do you remember the film that defined the last summer of your high school years? Stacker compiled Box Office Mojo data on summer movies from 1975 to 2024 and listed the #1 film at the box office for each summer, defined as the first Friday in May through Labor Day weekend.

Look back and see which iconic film took over the box office the summer you graduated!

1975: Jaws

– Summer domestic gross: $69,725,376
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $407,076,963
– Share of total gross: Data not available

A New England tourist town becomes tormented by the presence of a bloodthirsty shark. The sheriff wants the beaches closed, but the mayor fears the loss of revenue, so it’s up to an oceanographer and a local shark hunter to rid the town of the beast for good. “Jaws” had a notoriously troubled production, in part because it was the first major film to be shot on location on the ocean.

1976: The Omen

– Summer domestic gross: $60,922,980
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $336,307,698
– Share of total gross: Data not available

There’s something not quite right about Damien, adopted by American diplomat Robert Thorn and his wife, Katherine, after the stillborn death of their baby. A prescient warning from a priest and a series of deaths sends Robert down a rabbit hole to figure out whether he adopted the Antichrist. “The Omen” spawned a horror franchise that includes three sequels, a 2006 remake, and a 2024 prequel.

1977: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope

– Summer domestic gross: $125,989,616
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $653,025,386
– Share of total gross: 50.5%

The first film released in George Lucas’ epic trilogy introduces us to the hero Luke Skywalker, who must team up with a Jedi Knight, his hairy sidekick, and two droids to save Princess Leia and the entire galaxy from the evil Darth Vader. Due to troubled production and budgetary issues, many who worked on the film—and the studio that backed it—feared it would be a flop.

1978: Grease

– Summer domestic gross: $159,978,870
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $770,695,753
– Share of total gross: 34.3%

Good girl Sandy Olsson has a romantic summer fling with greaser Danny Zuko after she transfers to America from Australia. And while opposites attract, the two high school kids’ dueling cliques would rather see the lovers torn apart. The popular musical starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta spawned a sequel, as well as a prequel series that launched on Paramount+ in 2023.

1979: The Amityville Horror

– Summer domestic gross: $86,432,000
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,943,405
– Share of total gross: 15.6%

Something horrible happened in the Amityville house, and now it’s coming for George Lutz and his entire family. It turns out the home was the site of a brutal massacre and the former home of a Satanist. The film’s score composed by Lalo Schifrin was nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award.

1980: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

– Summer domestic gross: $153,961,603
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $586,885,188
– Share of total gross: 22.7%

In this thrilling sequel to “A New Hope,” intrepid Jedi-in-training Luke Skywalker must journey to the planet Dagobah to learn the ways of the Force from Master Yoda. Meanwhile, the Force’s dark side pulls him into a climactic lightsaber battle with Darth Vader. For this second film in the original trilogy, Lucas handed the directing reins over to Irvin Kershner, who also directed the John Carpenter-penned “Eyes of Laura Mars” and “RoboCop 2.”

1981: Superman II

– Summer domestic gross: $108,185,706
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,829,816
– Share of total gross: 15.7%

While saving the world from a terrorist plot, Superman accidentally frees the Kryptonian villain General Zod and his henchmen—and they’re headed straight to Earth. Superman must rise to the occasion, even after deciding to hang up his cape in favor of a normal life. “Superman II” co-screenwriter Mario Puzo may be better known as the author and Academy Award-winning co-screenwriter of “The Godfather,” “The Godfather Part II,” and the film’s eponymous source novel.

1982: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

– Summer domestic gross: $238,646,109
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $776,774,537
– Share of total gross: 18.4%

Stranded on Earth, the gentle alien E.T. befriends a young boy and his siblings in another Steven Spielberg classic. But when E.T. falls ill and the government catches wind of his existence, it’s a race to get E.T. on the first spaceship back to his home planet. Many remember “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” as the breakout role for a very young Drew Barrymore.

1983: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi

– Summer domestic gross: $231,117,020
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $728,853,976
– Share of total gross: 17.9%

The fate of the galaxy rests in the hands of Jedi Luke Skywalker, who must fight against the cruel Jabba the Hut and his own father, the evil Darth Vader. His friends in the Rebel Alliance, including Princess Leia and Han Solo, battle against the Galactic Empire on the forest planet of Endor. While Richard Marquand directed the film, Steven Spielberg, David Cronenberg, and David Lynch all turned down the job.

1984: Ghostbusters

– Summer domestic gross: $188,058,969
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $568,520,906
– Share of total gross: 13.2%

“Who you gonna call?” In this classic film, a group of fired Columbia University professors in New York City team up to fight a scourge more maddening than rats or cockroaches: supernatural forces. But when they accidentally come upon a portal to another dimension, the Ghostbusters are forced to save the entire city. The movie inspired four more films, including a 2016 reboot starring all women and the most recent hit, 2024’s “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.”

1985: Rambo: First Blood Part II

– Summer domestic gross: $145,393,330
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $424,424,210
– Share of total gross: 11.1%

This sequel to the iconic 1982 film sees John Rambo in jail when he’s offered a way out by his former boss. If he travels to Vietnam and finds American POWs, his criminal record will be cleared, but everything changes when the woman he loves dies at the hands of American forces.

1986: Top Gun

– Summer domestic gross: $129,766,727
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $371,895,337
– Share of total gross: 10.6%

Hotshot pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell is sent to the Fighter Weapons School, where his cocky attitude and recklessness create problems with the other students. As Maverick competes to be the best fighter pilot in his class, he also fights for the love of his instructor, Charlotte Blackwood. The film’s appeal is so long-lived that its 2022 sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick,” outperformed the original film at the box office.

1987: Beverly Hills Cop II

– Summer domestic gross: $153,665,036
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $424,878,414
– Share of total gross: 10.7%

Everyone’s favorite Detroit cop, Axel Foley, returns to L.A. in this hilarious sequel with a brand-new case to crack. Foley is tasked with pinning down a series of robberies dubbed the “alphabet crimes,” which leads him to an illegal weapons dealer. “Beverly Hills Cop II” received both Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations for the song “Shakedown.”

1988: Who Framed Roger Rabbit

– Summer domestic gross: $129,121,385
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $342,832,012
– Share of total gross: 8.7%

When a potential cheating scandal leaves one man dead, the finger of suspicion is pointed at the husband of the victim’s lover: star toon Roger Rabbit. Private investigator Eddie Valiant is tasked with bridging the worlds of toons and humans to find the man’s real killer and clear Roger’s name. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” won four Academy Awards: Best Sound Effects Editing, Best Film Editing, Best Visual Effects, and a Special Achievement Award.

1989: Batman

– Summer domestic gross: $238,559,567
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $604,286,774
– Share of total gross: 13.0%

Tim Burton’s classic take on the Caped Crusader sees the city of Gotham besieged by a grinning madman known only as The Joker, who takes full control of Gotham’s criminal underworld. In this new evil, Batman finds his greatest opponent and must save the city while concealing his true identity and protecting the woman he loves. Before Michael Keaton was eventually cast as Batman, several actors were considered for the role, including Mel Gibson, Kevin Costner, and Harrison Ford.

1990: Ghost

– Summer domestic gross: $121,842,426
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $292,813,359
– Share of total gross: 6.9%

When a banker is unknowingly double-crossed by his corrupt friend and murdered over a dubious business deal, he becomes a spirit in between planes of existence. But, while he’s dead, he discovers what happened to him, and he seeks help from a psychic to get justice and protect the love of his life. Anyone who has seen the movie has never heard “Unchained Melody” the same way since. “Ghost” was a departure for director Jerry Zucker of the Zucker Brothers comedy directing duo, who, along with Jim Abrahams, was responsible for such classics as “Airplane!” and “Top Secret!”

1991: Terminator 2: Judgment Day

– Summer domestic gross: $183,122,792
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $422,311,813
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

Eleven years after the events of the first “Terminator” film, young John Connor becomes the target of a T-1000 robot that’s been sent from the future. But another robot from the future, a T-800, has been sent to protect him, and John, alongside the robot and his mother, must go on the run to save humanity from a robot uprising. “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” earned four wins at the 64th Academy Awards: Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing Editing, Best Sound, and Best Makeup.

1992: Batman Returns

– Summer domestic gross: $159,559,854
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $357,218,461
– Share of total gross: 9.3%

In this sequel to Tim Burton’s classic take on Batman, the Dark Knight returns as Gotham finds itself overtaken by a mutant, sewer-dwelling man known as The Penguin and his goons. The Penguin has teamed up with corrupt businessman Max Shreck to get rid of the Bat once and for all, accompanied by Shreck’s former assistant-turned-Catwoman, Selina Kyle.

Though “Batman Returns” was the #1 movie of the summer in 1992, it failed to bring in the same box office earnings as its predecessor; in total, it earned $162.9 million domestically compared to “Batman’s” $251.2 million. As a result, Burton was replaced with Joel Schumacher, who went on to direct the marginally more successful “Batman Forever” and the bomb that was “Batman & Robin.”

1993: Jurassic Park

– Summer domestic gross: $316,609,010
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $688,213,772
– Share of total gross: 15.2%

Billionaire John Hammond has cracked the code for bringing dinosaurs back to life and decides to create a new kind of zoo to show them off to paying customers. Disaster, of course, ensues. A paleontologist, a paleobotanist, and a mathematician must keep people safe in the facility after an accident forces Hammond to learn just what happens when you play God. “Jurassic Park” employed groundbreaking fusions of CGI and animatronics to bring prehistoric creatures to life and made millions in the process—it was the first film to gross $50 million in a single weekend when it debuted.

1994: The Lion King

– Summer domestic gross: $260,978,278
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $553,126,026
– Share of total gross: 12.1%

Young lion cub Simba is next in line for his father’s throne, but King Mufasa’s malicious brother, Scar, has other plans. After Scar lures Mufasa and Simba to a stampede of wildebeests, only Simba makes it out alive, and he eventually must journey home to take back his kingdom. Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella were starring together in “Guys and Dolls” on Broadway and initially auditioned to voice Scar’s hyenas, but they had such good comedic chemistry it was decided they were better as the meerkat and warthog team of Timon and Pumbaa.

1995: Batman Forever

– Summer domestic gross: $181,180,518
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,417,327
– Share of total gross: 8.3%

In this second Batman sequel, Val Kilmer takes over for Michael Keaton in front of the camera and Joel Schumacher takes the reins from Tim Burton behind it. “Batman Forever” sees the titular superhero go up against two new villains with the help of his trusty new sidekick, Robin: The Riddler and Two-Face. “Batman Forever” boasts a star-studded cast, including Jim Carrey, Tommy Lee Jones, Nicole Kidman, and Drew Barrymore.

1996: Independence Day

– Summer domestic gross: $281,937,276
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $564,413,629
– Share of total gross: 12.4%

A group of disparate people seemingly connected by fate stand between Earth and total annihilation by an alien insurgence. With millions already killed and the rest of the world at stake, a counterattack is planned for the Fourth of July. In 2016, a sequel to “Independence Day” was released, titled “Independence Day: Resurgence,” but it only brought in a third of the original’s total domestic box office earnings. Director Roland Emmerich has said he would like to make a third “Independence Day” movie, but that’s still up in the air as of September 2024.

1997: Men in Black

– Summer domestic gross: $235,057,188
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $460,009,114
– Share of total gross: 10.1%

Another summer, another box office winner in which Will Smith takes on some aliens. In “Men in Black,” the eponymous shadowy government agency is responsible for maintaining checks and balances for aliens visiting Earth. NYPD officer James Darrell Edwards III (Smith) inadvertently becomes one such “man in black,” and is dubbed Agent J along with his partner Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones). J investigates a series of alien-related activities that uncover a plot by an intergalactic terrorist. The smash hit spawned two more sequels and a reboot, but none could match the box-office success of the original.

1998: Armageddon

– Summer domestic gross: $191,158,932
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $368,362,089
– Share of total gross: 7.0%

With a deadly asteroid on a crash course for Earth, NASA decides to employ a crew of oil drillers to travel to the asteroid’s surface and detonate a bomb. Meanwhile, one of the members, the arrogant A.J., attempts to win the approval of his superior, whose daughter A.J. is in love with. While it received mixed reviews, “Armageddon” was a box office winner and garnered four nominations at the 71st Academy Awards: Best Original Song, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing, and Best Visual Effects.

1999: Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace

– Summer domestic gross: $421,381,756
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $794,453,839
– Share of total gross: 13.1%

In this first prequel film set before the events of the classic trilogy, Darth Vader’s origin story is revealed, starting with him as a young child named Anakin Skywalker, who has an intrinsically strong connection with the force. Anakin joins Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and Jedi apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi to protect Queen Amidala. George Lucas returned to the “Star Wars” director’s seat for this film for the first time in more than 20 years. Despite the lackluster reviews, the movie dominated the box office and has the fifth-highest earnings of any “Star Wars” film.

2000: Mission: Impossible II

– Summer domestic gross: $213,578,518
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $389,576,147
– Share of total gross: 7.0%

In the second installment of the popular franchise, IMF agent Ethan Hunt returns with his team to destroy a biochemical weapon that is in the wrong hands. But, a gang of international terrorists is also tracking down the deadly virus, led by a former IMF agent. It’s one of a handful of movie sequels on this list that outdid its predecessor at the box office.

2001: Shrek

– Summer domestic gross: $262,908,727
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $466,288,149
– Share of total gross: 8.0%

Territorial ogre Shrek lives peacefully in his swamp until a horde of fairytale creatures is banned from their kingdom by the evil Lord Farquaad. To regain his solitude, Shrek embarks upon a perilous journey with a talking donkey to rescue Princess Fiona, who is slated to be Farquaad’s bride. The film’s performance was in stark contrast to its rocky beginnings; one animator said that those who failed while working on another DreamWorks film, “The Prince of Egypt,” were sent to work on “Shrek” as punishment. Ironically, “Shrek” ended up earning a standing ovation at Cannes and $267.9 million at the domestic box office, compared to the $101.4 million “The Prince of Egypt” brought in.

2002: Spider-Man

– Summer domestic gross: $403,706,375
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $704,859,213
– Share of total gross: 10.9%

The plot of this Sam Raimi film is one any comic book fan is likely familiar with dorky high school teen Peter Parker is bitten by a genetically modified spider and becomes the web-slinging superhero of New York City. As Peter gets accustomed to his new crime-fighting life, he copes with the death of his beloved uncle, his crush on Mary Jane Watson, and a villainous madman known as the Green Goblin. The movie’s upside-down kiss between actors Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst as Spider-Man and Mary Jane became instantly iconic; but in a 2024 interview, Dunst said it was “actually kind of miserable” to film.

2003: Finding Nemo

– Summer domestic gross: $332,722,962
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $567,979,795
– Share of total gross: 8.8%

After the death of his wife, overly protective clownfish Marlin wants his only son, Nemo, to be as safe as possible. But, on Nemo’s first day of school, Marlin’s worst fears are realized: Nemo swims too close to a boat and is captured by a diver. Then, it’s up to Marlin to traverse the vast ocean to rescue his last living family member. In addition to its box office success, “Finding Nemo” made history as the first Pixar film to win Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.

2004: Shrek 2

– Summer domestic gross: $437,622,810
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $727,672,444
– Share of total gross: 11.3%

Everyone’s favorite grouchy ogre returns, and this time Shrek has to take on a challenge more harrowing than rescuing a princess: meeting her parents. In “Shrek 2,” Shrek has to win the good graces of Fiona’s royal family and circumvent the underhanded schemes of Fiona’s Fairy Godmother. Like “Mission Impossible: II” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” before it, “Shrek 2” is another sequel that outdid the original at the box office.

2005: Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

– Summer domestic gross: $379,807,894
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $610,843,111
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

In this epic conclusion to George Lucas’ prequel trilogy, Anakin Skywalker slowly turns to the dark side before assuming the villainous role of Darth Vader. This culminates in a climactic lightsaber battle with Obi-Wan Kenobi, fomented by Anakin’s bond with the evil Emperor Palpatine. It’d be another 10 years before the “Star Wars” franchise would make its triumphant return to the box office.

2006: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest

– Summer domestic gross: $414,013,957
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $645,048,531
– Share of total gross: 11.0%

Though all five “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies were released in the summer, only one dominated the box office for the full season: “Dead Man’s Chest.” The third installment in the iconic adventures of Jack Sparrow sees the swashbuckler contend with the ghoulish, tentacled villain Davy Jones. Jones comes to Sparrow to collect a blood debt, so the pirate must figure out a way to escape the damnation of his very soul. At the 2007 Academy Awards, the film took home the Oscar for Best Visual Effects; it was also up for Best Art Direction, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing.

2007: Spider-Man 3

– Summer domestic gross: $336,530,303
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $509,909,157
– Share of total gross: 8.1%

In this conclusion to Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man” trilogy, Peter Parker is faced with a trio of foes: Sandman, Venom, and his own best friend, Harry Osborn, who discovers Peter’s true identity and seeks revenge for the death of his father, the Green Goblin. All the while, Peter struggles to maintain his relationship with Mary Jane. Neither the third movie nor the second matched the success of “Spider-Man” at the box office, but it was still enough to dominate all other movies in the summer it was released.

2008: The Dark Knight

– Summer domestic gross: $504,798,337
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $736,447,551
– Share of total gross: 12.2%

Christopher Nolan’s lauded second installment in his “Batman” trilogy sees the Caped Crusader facing off against his greatest enemy: the twisted, maniacal Joker. Batman must find a way to put an end to the Joker’s madness while keeping himself from straying too far from heroism into vigilantism. Actor Heath Ledger delivered a stellar performance as Joker but died tragically six months before the film was released. He received a posthumous Academy Award for his portrayal in the Best Supporting Actor category.

2009: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

– Summer domestic gross: $400,641,549
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $586,673,709
– Share of total gross: 9.3%

Two years following the events of the first “Transformers” film, hero Sam Witwicky adjusts to his new life in college, while his Autobot friends attempt to adjust to life on Earth. But an ancient Decepticon has other plans that threaten the fate of the entire planet. To date, “Revenge of the Fallen” is the biggest domestic box office winner of the “Transformers” franchise—of course, that could change with the release of “Transformers One” on Sept. 20, 2024.

2010: Toy Story 3

– Summer domestic gross: $408,890,408
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $588,869,680
– Share of total gross: 9.7%

The first two movies in the “Toy Story” franchise were released around Thanksgiving, but the third movie debuted in the summertime, becoming king of the box office. In “Toy Story 3,” Andy is grown up and finally off to college, but sadly, his beloved toys don’t come with him. After being left behind, the toys end up at a daycare center full of rowdy children, and Woody must figure out a way to help his pals escape. The film features new additions including Michael Keaton, Ned Beatty, Whoopi Goldberg, Kristen Schaal, and Timothy Dalton.

2011: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

– Summer domestic gross: $375,552,093
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $524,503,835
– Share of total gross: 8.5%

Like “Toy Story,” the “Harry Potter” franchise’s release strategy had its films coming out either in the summer or on Thanksgiving weekend. But only one movie in the series can claim the title of summer box office winner: “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.” The epic conclusion to the original Wizarding World saga sees Harry finally face off in a duel to the death with his nemesis from birth, Voldemort. But the Boy Who Lived needs all the help he can get from his wizard pals and professors at Hogwarts.

2012: The Avengers

– Summer domestic gross: $620,323,837
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $848,622,462
– Share of total gross: 14.4%

The evil and treacherous Loki gets his hands on the Tesseract, a device that will grant him unlimited power—and he will stop at nothing to use it to take over the world. Enter Nick Fury, the director of the special defense force S.H.I.E.L.D., who puts together a team of Earth’s mightiest heroes to stop Loki and obtain the Tesseract. Before directing “The Avengers,” writer and director Joss Whedon was perhaps best known for creating the popular TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Including “The Avengers” in 2012, Marvel won the summer box office for three straight years.

2013: Iron Man 3

– Summer domestic gross: $408,797,699
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $551,087,370
– Share of total gross: 8.6%

The final solo “Iron Man” movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe sees the titular metal-suited superhero, aka billionaire playboy Tony Stark, go up against a brand-new villain known as the Mandarin. But Stark must battle his inner demons along with his external ones to come out on top. The movie also prevailed at the box office, outperforming the original and second “Iron Man” movies.

2014: Guardians of the Galaxy

– Summer domestic gross: $281,204,119
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,156,797
– Share of total gross: 6.9%

On its surface, “Guardians of the Galaxy” seemed like a Marvel deep cut bound to flop. Its star, Chris Pratt, was best known for the NBC comedy “Parks and Recreation,” and his sidekicks included a smack-talking raccoon and a tree-like character who only says, “I am Groot.” But, something about this ragtag of intergalactic outlaws and its epic retro soundtrack worked, skyrocketing the movie to the top of the box office in the summer of 2014.

2015: Jurassic World

– Summer domestic gross: $647,374,160
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $857,975,627
– Share of total gross: 14.5%

Over two decades since the catastrophe on Isla Nublar, a new vision of the past has been resurrected in Jurassic World: a dual theme park and luxury resort that has once again brought dinosaurs hurtling into the future. But the sins of Jurassic Park’s past have not been reckoned with, and both the guests and the scientists at its helm quickly learn that bigger does not mean better. After the success of “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Jurassic World” cemented Chris Pratt’s position as a Hollywood heartthrob and box office beast. It also spawned two more sequels and will see a third debut in 2025.

2016: Finding Dory

– Summer domestic gross: $482,853,070
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $631,933,955
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

In this sequel to the beloved Pixar film, Marlin and his son Nemo set out to help their very forgetful friend Dory find her roots. All Dory remembers is that she was separated from her parents as a child, and soon the trio is embarking on an epic adventure. Albert Brooks and Ellen DeGeneres reprised their roles voicing Marlin and Dory, accompanied by new voice actors including Ed O’Neill, Ty Burrell, Diane Keaton, and Idris Elba. Dory’s story brought viewers to the theaters in droves, driving a total of $486.3 million at the domestic box office.

2017: Wonder Woman

– Summer domestic gross: $409,537,039
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $524,828,984
– Share of total gross: 10.7%

The origin story of this iconic superhero is traced from her childhood as the princess of the Amazons to helping the Americans win World War I. Wonder Woman—also known as Diana—leaves the island paradise she grew up on, bringing along dashing pilot Steve Trevor, hoping that she can use her mighty powers to end the global conflict. “Wonder Woman” enthralled not only superhero fans but earned acclaim for its feminist message. Yes, it broke the glass ceiling, but it also broke records. At the time, “Wonder Woman” was the biggest U.S. opening weekend for a woman director. But Patty Jenkins and “Wonder Woman” would soon be outdone by another pair of feminist icons.

2018: Incredibles 2

– Summer domestic gross: $602,579,381
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $753,764,172
– Share of total gross: 13.7%

The sequel to the Disney-Pixar classic finds the superhero Parr family matriarch—Helen, aka Elastigirl—enlisted to improve public perception of supers, forcing Mr. Incredible to become a stay-at-home dad. But soon, the whole family needs to band together to stop a sinister threat. In addition to the original voice cast, newcomers featured Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, and Catherine Keener.

2019: The Lion King

– Summer domestic gross: $523,578,926
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $643,160,503
– Share of total gross: 12.1%

Twenty-five years after the classic animated “Lion King” dominated the summer box office, this 2019 musical drama adaptation did the same. The latest version retreads the plot of the original 1994 film as we follow young lion Prince Simba, whose throne is usurped by his fratricidal uncle, Scar, forcing him to return to his animal kingdom and take back what’s rightfully his.

New voice actors for this updated “The Lion King” include Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar. Considering it’s the current highest-grossing animated movie of all time, it’s no surprise that another film in the series is in the works: a prequel called “Mufasa: The Lion King” is set to hit theaters in December 2024.

2020: Tenet

– Summer domestic gross: $19,192,876
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $23,293,981
– Share of total gross: 27.0%

This mind-bending thriller from Christopher Nolan follows a former CIA agent who learns that an attack from the future has a target set for the present day. Now, he must learn how to bend time to prevent World War III. “Tenet” was the first major film to be released in the months following the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. It’s the lowest earner on this list, but about $20 million was enough to dominate a summer with very little box-office competition.

2021: Black Widow

– Summer domestic gross: $182,690,466
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $211,745,666
– Share of total gross: 10.5%

In this prequel solo film for the since-deceased Avenger, the titular hero—aka Natasha Romanoff—must confront her demons as she is pursued by a villainous threat with a link to her past. While on the run, Natasha unlocks trauma and regret in her tattered history as a Russian spy.

Like “Tenet,” “Black Widow’s” box office story is also a product of the post-pandemic moviegoing experience. When Disney decided to release the movie in theaters and on Disney+ simultaneously, “Black Widow” actor Scarlett Johansson sued the studio, alleging that making the movie available on the streaming platform reduced her earnings potential, seeing as her salary was based in large part on “Black Widow’s” box-office numbers. They settled after just three months, but the terms were not disclosed.

2022: Top Gun: Maverick

– Summer domestic gross: $701,250,369
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $752,520,468
– Share of total gross: 20.7%

Just as stubborn and reckless as he was more than 35 years ago, “Top Gun: Maverick” sees Pete “Maverick” Mitchell continue to push his limits by dodging an advancement in rank as a test pilot. After yet another brash incident, Maverick is sent to train a new class of naval aviators for a special mission, including Rooster, the resentful son of his late best friend, Goose. Nominated for six Academy Awards (including Best Picture) in 2023, “Top Gun: Maverick” took home the honor for Best Sound. As of January 2024, a sequel is officially in the works, but it likely won’t hit theaters until 2025 or 2026.

2023: Barbie

– Summer domestic gross: $612,331,509
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $631,221,946
– Share of total gross: 15.2%

The summer of 2023 belonged to two movies: the concurrently released “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” But ultimately, in the “Barbenheimer” battle, director Greta Gerwig’s take on all things girlhood reigned supreme.

The live-action film centers on the iconic Mattel doll (played by Margot Robbie), whose picture-perfect matriarchal world is upended when she’s suddenly stricken with worries about her mortality, along with physical afflictions like flat feet, bad breath, and cellulite. To right these wrongs, Barbie—and a stowaway Ken (Ryan Gosling)—leave Barbieland and head to the real world to find the child playing with her who’s causing these issues.

From its opening weekend—when it bested the “Wonder Woman” record to become the biggest debut for a film directed by a woman—”Barbie” won hearts and smashed both the patriarchy and box-office records. With its $636.2 million total domestic earnings, “Barbie” was crowned the highest-grossing movie of 2023 in North America and is the highest-grossing comedy in Hollywood history by a mile.

Data reporting by Luke Hicks. Story editing by Jaimie Etkin. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. 

2024: Inside Out 2

– Summer domestic gross: $652,683,467
– Share of total gross: 23.6%

The long-awaited sequel to the 2015 movie “Inside Out” reunites the personified emotions that audiences came to know and love in the original—Joy, Disgust, Sadness, Anger, and Fear—but adds several new emotions to the mix. Anxiety, Envy, and Ennui compete with the core quintet for space as their host, Riley, enters her teenage years. Praised by critics and audiences alike, “Inside Out 2” became the highest-grossing animated movie of all time.

Additional writing by Cu Fleshman.

50 best Western films of all time, according to critics

For decades, the most popular movie genre in America was the Western. Audiences could not get enough gun-slinging sheriffs, dashing outlaws, thundering cattle drives, horseback pursuits, and majestic landscapes. In fact, more Westerns were produced in the 1950s than all other movie genres combined. These days, Hollywood produces far fewer Westerns due to the smaller crowds they tend to attract. But for many movie buffs, they still have a persistent appeal.

Early Westerns like “Red River” and “Stagecoach” set the standard for the genre with plenty of shootouts and cowboys played by Gary Cooper and John Wayne. These big hits inspired genre spinoffs like spaghetti Westerns, products of the Italian film industry in the ’60s and ’70s like “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” and meat pie Westerns, the Australian equivalent that includes films like “The Sundowners.”

Modern Westerns focus more on themes than escapades, as in the Oscar-nominated “Killers of the Flower Moon” in 2023. But while Scorsese’s lauded film was a period piece, many contemporary Westerns are set in the present day—or in very recent history, like Ari Aster’s July 2025 film “Eddington,” which uses traditional Western tropes to explore the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. There’s also “Broke,” starring Wyatt Russell as a rodeo rider, which began streaming on Netflix on Aug. 21, 2025, and the Bob Odenkirk-led violent dark comedy “Normal,” which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 7, 2025.

In the coming years, we’ll discover which, if any, of these recent releases will stand the rest of time. For now, Stacker has rounded up a list of the 50 best Western films of all time, from the age-old classics to more contemporary box-office hits. The list was compiled using data (as of June 10, 2024) from Metacritic, a site that collects reviews from respected critics and uses them to determine the average rating.

Whether you’re a longtime Western fan checking in on your favorites or new to the genre, there’s a film on this list for you.

#50. Jauja (2015)

– Director: Lisandro Alonso
– Metascore: 77
– Runtime: 1 hour 49 minutes

Viggo Mortensen stars in “Jauja” as Captain Gunnar Dinesen. After Dinesen’s daughter runs away with a soldier, he must travel into unknown worlds to find her. The film claimed the FIPRESCI Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival.

#49. Shanghai Noon (2000)

– Director: Tom Dey
– Metascore: 77
– Runtime: 1 hour 50 minutes

Chon Wang (Jackie Chan) attempts to save a princess who has been kidnapped and brought to the United States. Along the way, he teams up with the train robber Roy O’Bannon (Owen Wilson). This is the first movie in the “Shanghai” series, the second being “Shanghai Knights.”

#48. The Nightingale (2019)

– Director: Jennifer Kent
– Metascore: 77
– Runtime: 2 hours 16 minutes

Set in Tasmania in 1825, “The Nightingale” follows a young Irish woman as she sets out to pursue revenge with the help of an Aboriginal tracker with his own agenda. Viewers should take note—the film is so graphic and brutal that audiences walked out of multiple theatrical screenings.

#47. The Shootist (1976)

– Director: Don Siegel
– Metascore: 77
– Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes

John Bernard Books led a long life as a talented shootist, but now he is suffering from cancer and searching for the best way to die. Books was John Wayne’s final film role; he himself died of stomach cancer a few years after the film was released.

#46. The Misfits (1961)

– Director: John Huston
– Metascore: 77
– Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes

Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable star in the story of a divorced woman and an aging cowboy. At the time, Monroe was married to Arthur Miller, who wrote the film’s screenplay. Their union unraveled during filming in part because Monroe discovered Miller’s notebook, in which the writer described how he truly felt about her. Gable died of a heart attack just days after filming ended, and Monroe died about a year and a half later.

#45. Barbarosa (1982)

– Director: Fred Schepisi
– Metascore: 78
– Runtime: 1 hour 30 minutes

Country music legend Willie Nelson stars in this ’80s Western about the unusual partnership between a young, inexperienced farmhand and a famous outlaw. An often overlooked film, “Barbarosa” has been critically praised for its acting, relative levity, and storytelling.

#44. The Sisters Brothers (2018)

– Director: Jacques Audiard
– Metascore: 78
– Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes

Set in Oregon during the California gold rush, a pair of assassins known as the Sisters brothers chase down a man who claims to have developed a formula for finding gold. John C. Reilly and Joaquin Phoenix star as the titular duo.

#43. Lone Star (1996)

– Director: John Sayles
– Metascore: 78
– Runtime: 2 hours 15 minutes

After the skeleton of a despised sheriff is discovered, the current sheriff, Sam Deeds, begins an investigation into the murder. “Lone Star” was highly rated by critics and nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for writing.

#42. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)

– Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
– Metascore: 79
– Runtime: 2 hours 13 minutes

The Coen brothers wrote and directed this Western anthology, which follows six stories set in the American frontier. Each chapter has a different cast, featuring actors like James Franco, Liam Neeson, Tom Waits, and Zoe Kazan.

#41. Hondo (1953)

– Director: John Farrow
– Metascore: 79
– Runtime: 1 hour 23 minutes

Based on a short story by Louis L’Amour, “Hondo” stars John Wayne as an army dispatch rider who becomes the de facto protector for a widow and her young son after they find themselves in the middle of a Native American battle. The movie is unique among Westerns of the era as it is one of the few to be shot in 3D, a popular technology in the ’50s.

#40. Sweetgrass (2010)

– Director: Ilisa Barbash, Lucien Castaing-Taylor
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 41 minutes

“Sweetgrass” is a documentary about shepherds working in the mountains of Montana. Anthropologist Lucien Castaing-Taylor directed the film with his wife Ilisa Barbash. The film won the audience award at the 2010 International Documentary Film Festival of Navarra Punto de Vista.

#39. Lucky (2017)

– Director: John Carroll Lynch
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 28 minutes

“Lucky” marks one of the final roles of Harry Dean Stanton, a prolific character actor who had roles in everything from “Cool Hand Luke” to “The Avengers.” In this slow-moving drama, he plays an aging cowboy who’s coming to terms with his own morality and wrestling with spiritual issues.

#38. The Settlers (2024)

– Director: Felipe Gálvez Haberle
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 37 minutes

In this Chilean production, three men are paid to protect an estate purchased by a wealthy businessman only to discover that their real job is to decimate a native population. The film won the FIPRESCI prize at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

#37. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia (1974)

– Director: Sam Peckinpah
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes

A pair of bounty hunters set off in Mexico on the trail of a man wanted by a wealthy father for impregnating his daughter. It stars Warren Oates, Emilio Fernández, Gig Young, and Robert Webber, with an appearance from Kris Kristofferson as a biker. While now critically revered, the movie was trounced by critics when it was originally released.

#36. True Grit (2010)

– Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 50 minutes

“True Grit” is a Coen brothers adaptation of a novel by Charles Portis, which had already been made into a movie in 1969. Hailee Steinfeld plays Mattie Ross, a girl seeking to avenge her father’s death. She hires U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to assist her.

#35. 3:10 to Yuma (1957)

– Director: Delmer Daves
– Metascore: 80
– Runtime: 1 hour 32 minutes

In this mid-century classic, a down-on-his-luck cattle rancher agrees to escort a captured outlaw to the train that will bring him to jail. The escapade, of course, turns into a classic game of cat and mouse as the outlaw’s gang does their best to free him.

#34. Destry Rides Again (1939)

– Director: George Marshall
– Metascore: 81
– Runtime: 1 hour 35 minutes

James Stewart is Thomas Jefferson Destry Jr., a deputy sheriff who wants to keep the peace in the lawless town of Bottleneck without using guns. Marlene Dietrich plays Frenchy, a not-to-be-trusted saloon singer. The film is based on the 1930 novel of the same name by Max Brand.

#33. Django Unchained (2012)

– Director: Quentin Tarantino
– Metascore: 81
– Runtime: 2 hours 45 minutes

A freed enslaved man (Jamie Foxx) journeys to save his wife (Kerry Washington) from a Mississippi plantation, accompanied by a German bounty hunter. Quentin Tarantino wrote and directed the film, which is his highest-grossing movie in the U.S.

#32. Bacurau (2020)

– Director: Juliano Dornelles, Kleber Mendonça Filho
– Metascore: 82
– Runtime: 2 hours 11 minutes

A remote town in Brazil disappears off satellite maps, loses its cellular service, and empty coffins appear at the side of the road. The town’s oddball cast of characters then must defend themselves against corrupt and greedy politicians and businesses. Former President Barack Obama listed it as one of his favorite movies of 2020.

#31. 3 Godfathers (1949)

– Director: John Ford
– Metascore: 82
– Runtime: 1 hour 46 minutes

Three fugitive bank robbers—played by John Wayne, Harry Carey Jr., and Pedro Armendáriz—risk capture to take care of a newborn baby. John Ford had directed an earlier silent version of the film, titled “Marked Men,” with Harry Carey Sr.

#30. The Sundowners (1960)

– Director: Fred Zinnemann
– Metascore: 82
– Runtime: 2 hours 13 minutes

A classic example of a meat pie Western, “The Sundowners” follows the rising tensions in one family as half its members desire a more settled lifestyle. In contrast, the other half prefers their current, nomadic sheep-herding existence. Although it was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, the movie didn’t ultimately bring any trophies home.

#29. Once Upon a Time in the West (rerelease) (2005)

– Director: Sergio Leone
– Metascore: 82
– Runtime: 2 hours 46 minutes

A harmonica-wielding stranger teams up with a desperado to save a widow in this spaghetti Western. While initially receiving mixed reviews, “Once Upon a Time in the West” has since received many accolades, including being named as one of Time magazine’s 100 greatest films of all time.

#28. True Grit (1969)

– Director: Henry Hathaway
– Metascore: 83
– Runtime: 2 hours 8 minutes

John Wayne takes top billing in the story of gruff, one-eyed U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, who sets off to help avenge a killing, accompanied by a teenage girl (Kim Darby) and a Texas Ranger (Glen Campbell). Elvis Presley is said to have been considered for the Texas Ranger role, but when his manager Col. Tom Parker wanted Presley to get top billing, the part went to Campbell.

#27. Aferim! (2016)

– Director: Radu Jude
– Metascore: 84
– Runtime: 1 hour 48 minutes

Set in 19th-century Romania, an enslaved man has run away from his enslaver’s home after having an affair with his wife. A local policeman is hired to find him. The film won director Radu Jude the Silver Bear Award for best director at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival.

#26. Giant (1956)

– Director: George Stevens
– Metascore: 84
– Runtime: 3 hours 21 minutes

This Western epic stars Rock Hudson as a Texas cattle rancher, Elizabeth Taylor as his wife, and James Dean as cowhand Jett Rink. It was Dean’s last movie role. The young actor had major roles in only three films before he was killed in an auto collision accident in 1955, before “Giant” was released. George Stevens won an Oscar for Best Director.

#25. Meek’s Cutoff (2011)

– Director: Kelly Reichardt
– Metascore: 85
– Runtime: 1 hour 44 minutes

This Western survival film follows a group of settlers traveling across an Oregon desert. It becomes apparent that their guide is lost. The ensemble cast includes Michelle Williams, Bruce Greenwood, Shirley Henderson, and Neal Huff.

#24. Unforgiven (1992)

– Director: Clint Eastwood
– Metascore: 85
– Runtime: 2 hours 10 minutes

Clint Eastwood directed, produced, and stars in this highly lauded Western. Eastwood plays William Munny, a retired bandit who takes on one final job in hopes of putting the money toward his failing farm. It won Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Film Editing.

#23. Shane (1953)

– Director: George Stevens
– Metascore: 85
– Runtime: 1 hour 58 minutes

The saga of a Western land conflict between cattlemen and settlers was supposed to be shot in 48 days with a budget of less than $2 million. Instead, it took 75 days to shoot and cost more than $3 million, in part due to a long editing process. The lines “Shane! Shane! Come back!” became iconic.

#22. El Dorado (1967)

– Director: Howard Hawks
– Metascore: 85
– Runtime: 2 hours 6 minutes

John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, and James Caan star in the story of a gunfighter and a sheriff caught up in a battle between rival ranchers over water rights. Howard Hawks also directed such acclaimed films as “Scarface,” “His Girl Friday,” “To Have and Have Not,” “The Big Sleep,” and “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.” A scene of Caan impersonating a Chinese man is often edited out of television rebroadcasts of “El Dorado” as racist.

#21. The Rider (2018)

– Director: Chloé Zhao
– Metascore: 85
– Runtime: 1 hour 44 minutes

Chloé Zhao directed this Western drama, which centers on Brady Blackburn, a young man struggling to find his purpose after a brain injury halts his rodeo career. “The Rider” won the Art Cinema Award at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.

#20. Bisbee ’17 (2018)

– Director: Robert Greene
– Metascore: 87
– Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes

Robert Greene’s documentary centers on a town bordering Arizona and Mexico. The community grapples with its past by holding a reenactment of a day that occurred 100 years earlier when 1,200 immigrant miners were deported.

#19. She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949)

– Director: John Ford
– Metascore: 87
– Runtime: 1 hour 44 minutes

Directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon” was one of the most expensive Westerns made up to that point with a budget of $1.6 million. The second installment in the so-called “Cavalry trilogy,” the movie follows an army captain on the brink of retirement whose last mission is to bring a group of women to safety before their settlement is attacked by Native Americans.

#18. Hell or High Water (2016)

– Director: David Mackenzie
– Metascore: 88
– Runtime: 1 hour 42 minutes

Described by The Guardian as being “so good it’s criminal,” “Hell or High Water” tells the story of two brothers who rob a series of banks to save their family farm and the pair of Texas Rangers who are attempting to stop them. Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges, and Gil Birmingham star in the Oscar-nominated production.

#17. Sweet Country (2018)

– Director: Warwick Thornton
– Metascore: 88
– Runtime: 1 hour 53 minutes

Set in the Australian outback, “Sweet Country” explores what happens when an Aboriginal farmer kills a white man in self-defense and is forced to flee for his life. Warwick Thornton directs this Western featuring Sam Neill, Bryan Brown, and Hamilton Morris.

#16. High Noon (1952)

– Director: Fred Zinnemann
– Metascore: 89
– Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes

Will Kane (Gary Cooper) faces a dilemma when outlaws threaten to kill him. His wife (Grace Kelly) wants him to leave town rather than defend himself. A number of U.S. presidents have listed “High Noon” as one of their favorite films.

#15. The Power of the Dog (2021)

– Director: Jane Campion
– Metascore: 89
– Runtime: 2 hours 6 minutes

With a whopping 12 Academy Award nominations, “The Power of the Dog” was undeniably one of the best movies of 2021. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, and Jesse Plemons, the movie follows a troubled family—two brothers, one of their wives, and her child—as they attempt to live harmoniously and wrestle with the secret truths they harbor within themselves. If that synopsis sounds vague, it’s because the movie itself intends to be subtle, slow, and confusing.

#14. Western (2015)

– Director: Bill Ross IV, Turner Ross
– Metascore: 89
– Runtime: 1 hour 32 minutes

This documentary by the Ross brothers focuses on the small border towns of Eagle Pass, Texas, and Piedras Negras, Mexico. It explores the lives of the residents in these communities with intimate storytelling capturing their daily experiences in the context of increasing drug-related violence and tensions along the border. The film is the third installment of the filmmakers’ Americana trilogy.

#13. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

– Director: Martin Scorsese
– Metascore: 89
– Runtime: 3 hours 26 minutes

Based on the 2017 book of the same name by David Grann, “Killers of the Flower Moon” tells the true story of the Osage Nation murders after oil was discovered on their reservation. Nominated for 10 Academy Awards, the Martin Scorsese-directed film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, and Jesse Plemons.

#12. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1967)

– Director: Sergio Leone
– Metascore: 90
– Runtime: 2 hours 58 minutes

This epic spaghetti Western stars Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach as rough characters seeking Confederate gold. Italian director Sergio Leone did not speak English, and he had to use an interpreter to communicate with his English-speaking actors. The film is part of a trilogy that includes “A Fistful of Dollars” and “For a Few Dollars More.”

#11. First Cow (2020)

– Director: Kelly Reichardt
– Metascore: 90
– Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes

Set in the mid-19th century, long before the Oregon territory where it takes place was fully settled, “First Cow” is a buddy film that follows a quiet chef and a Chinese outlaw who hitch their fortunes together with grim outcomes. Nominated for dozens of awards, the film isn’t as high-action as the other entries on this list. Still, it’s a valuable watch with much to say about the perils of capitalism and the joys of companionship.

#10. Ride the High Country (1962)

– Director: Sam Peckinpah
– Metascore: 92
– Runtime: 1 hour 34 minutes

Two lawmen agree to accompany a cache of gold across the mountains only to face a crisis of conscience when the temptation to steal it arises. According to Turner Classic Movies, the movie was the genesis of director Sam Peckinpah’s favorite theme to explore in film, namely the decline of the West.

#9. Stagecoach (1939)

– Director: John Ford
– Metascore: 93
– Runtime: 1 hour 36 minutes

This story of passengers on a besieged stagecoach is John Wayne’s first starring role in a John Ford film. Wayne had worked as an extra, a stuntman, and an actor in other low-budget productions. Wayne wore his own cowboy hat, which he would continue to wear in several Westerns until 1959, when it started falling apart.

#8. McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971)

– Director: Robert Altman
– Metascore: 93
– Runtime: 2 hours

Warren Beatty and Julie Christie play a gambler and a sex worker who team up as business partners in a remote town that comes under threat for its mining riches. Set in the Pacific Northwest mining town of Presbyterian Church, Roger Ebert said the movie “was a perfect film and one of the saddest he has ever seen.”

#7. Rio Bravo (1959)

– Director: Howard Hawks
– Metascore: 93
– Runtime: 2 hours 21 minutes

A sheriff (John Wayne) teams up with the town drunk (Dean Martin); an elderly deputy named Stumpy (Walter Brennan), and a young cowboy (Ricky Nelson), to help keep the murderous brother of a wealthy rancher in jail. Director Howard Hawks gave his daughter, Barbara Hawks, writing credit on the film for giving him the idea to throw dynamite, she is listed under the pseudonym B.H. McCampbell.

#6. The Gunfighter (1950)

– Director: Henry King
– Metascore: 94
– Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes

Gregory Peck plays Jimmy Ringo, a gunfighter who runs into his estranged wife. Even though trouble seems to follow him everywhere, he hopes to convince her he has been reformed and win her back. The film focuses on themes of guilt and regret, setting it apart from the more action-oriented Westerns of the time.

#5. The Searchers (1956)

– Director: John Ford
– Metascore: 94
– Runtime: 1 hour 59 minutes

John Wayne plays a Confederate Army veteran tracking down Comanche Indians who massacred his family, burned their ranch, and kidnapped his young niece. The film is based on the novel by Alan LeMay and inspired by the true-life story of Cynthia Ann Parker, who was kidnapped by Comanches in 1836.

#4. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

– Director: John Ford
– Metascore: 94
– Runtime: 2 hours 3 minutes

When U.S. Sen. Ranse Stoddard returns to the West to attend a funeral, he is forced to rehash his past, including the truth regarding the killing of an infamous outlaw. This black-and-white film was directed by John Ford and stars James Stewart, John Wayne, and Vera Miles. For the movie, Ford returned to filming on sound stages and in monochrome lending to the melancholic undertones of the film.

#3. Red River (1948)

– Director: Howard Hawks, Arthur Rosson
– Metascore: 96
– Runtime: 2 hours 13 minutes

A fictionalized account of the first cattle drive along the Chisholm Trail, from Texas to Kansas, “Red River” stars John Wayne and Montgomery Clift as a father-son team with different ideas about how to best get the job done. Hollywood history fans may be interested to know that the iconic Red River D belt buckles—which are so often associated with Wayne fandom—stemmed from this film as the wrapped gift the actor gave to several of his co-stars and crew.

#2. The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)

– Director: John Huston
– Metascore: 98
– Runtime: 2 hours 6 minutes

Penniless Americans Fred Dobbs (Humphrey Bogart) and Bob Curtin (Tim Holt) go on a gold-prospecting trip, joined by an older prospector named Howard. Director John Huston won the Academy Award for Best Director, and his father, Walter Huston, who played Howard, won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Bogart was not nominated for playing Dobbs, which was considered a snub.

#1. The Wild Bunch (1969)

– Director: Sam Peckinpah
– Metascore: 98
– Runtime: 2 hours 15 minutes

William Holden and Ernest Borgnine play gang members heading to Mexico to execute one final heist as the traditional America West dies around them in the early 20th century. The movie used more than 90,000 rounds of blank ammunition, and Warner Bros. said in publicity material for the film that it was more ammunition than had been used in the Mexican Revolution.

Additional writing by Madison Troyer. Story editing by Cynthia Rebolledo. Additional editing by Paris Close. Copy editing by Meg Shields. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.

50 best talk shows in TV history

“The Joe Franklin Show” was filmed in a dingy New York City basement where the “no smoking” sign aimed to ensure no wayward spark would cause a conflagration. The series, which remained on the air until 1993, is among the first (and longest-running) talk shows in the United States. Although it never achieved national syndication, it has become a cultural institution.

The talk show floodgates opened since Franklin’s program first aired. From long-standing broadcast institutions like “The View” to streaming releases like John Mulaney’s new weekly live series, which premiered on Netflix in March 2025, viewers can watch hosts discuss any topic they desire on any platform they can reach. The variety of styles and formatting is endless, including late-night celebrity talk shows, dramatic daytime series, political satire, and sports news programs, each filled with banter and debates. There are even talk shows that parody the traditional talk show format.

Of course, certain kinds of talk shows may not be around forever. In a June 2025 interview with Variety, “Late Night” host Seth Meyers echoed the sentiments of fellow host Jimmy Kimmel, who had previously stated that late-night hosts might not be around in a decade. “Unless some major sea change happens, I don’t think there’s going to be a whole new wave of network hosts, in the way there always has been,” Meyers said. “If you’re a great lover of the institution of late-night talk shows, there’s probably some sadness in your future.”

That sadness might be coming sooner than expected, as fans of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” learned in July 2025 after the show’s abrupt cancellation by CBS amid rumors of political motivation. There was added cause for concern in September 2025 when “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” was temporarily pulled off the air following comments made by the host about the death of Charlie Kirk, and threats from the Federal Communications Commission to pull ABC affiliate licenses. When Kimmel returned on Sept. 23, 2025, he spoke out about the importance of defending free speech.

For now, at least, there are plenty of talk shows—late-night and otherwise—to admire, along with countless classics from decades prior. With that in mind, Stacker is tipping its hat to the best talk shows throughout history. We analyzed IMDb data as of July 2023 to create the list, using its user ratings to rank shows. Anything before 1990 required at least 500 votes for consideration, whereas shows after 1990 needed at least 1,500 votes.

#50. Talking Dead

– IMDb user rating: 7.2
– On air: 2011-2022

The Chris Hardwick-hosted, celebrity-heavy talk show that breaks down “The Walking Dead” (and the cult show’s many spinoffs) aired initially after the zombie show’s second season premiere in 2011.  Twelve years, 10 seasons, four spinoffs (including shows on “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul”), two Emmy nominations, and 243 episodes later, it came to a close in November 2022 with “The Walking Dead” finale. 

#49. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

– IMDb user rating: 7.2
– On air: 2015-present

When David Letterman retired after more than 20 years hosting “The Late Show,” comedian Stephen Colbert took the reins. Already well known for his work on “The Daily Show” and its spinoff “The Colbert Report,” Colbert’s show was fairly well-received right out of the gate. Donald Trump’s presidential run proved a ratings boon; the show’s ratings climbed even more once Colbert shifted to a more political approach.

#48. The Problem with Jon Stewart

– IMDb user rating: 7.3
– On air: 2021-2023

Jon Stewart left his post on “The Daily Show” in 2015 but couldn’t stay away from the political arena for too long. In 2021, his new show, “The Problem with Jon Stewart,” debuted on Apple TV+. Unlike “The Daily Show,” each episode focused on a singular issue. Stewart also hosted a podcast of the same name that acted as a spill-over discussion of what didn’t make the TV cut.

#47. The Jim Jefferies Show

– IMDb user rating: 7.5
– On air: 2017-2019

Jim Jefferies was no stranger to television or politics when Comedy Central offered the Australian comic his weekly news satire show. From 2013 to 2014, he starred in “Legit,” a sitcom he co-created. In 2014, he delivered a popular bit about gun control in his stand-up special (which again went viral eight years after a Texas school shooting), and two years later, he spoke about Donald Trump in his “Jim Jefferies: Freedumb” special. Though his take on politics became a popular one, what might have been the best thing about “The Jim Jefferies Show” was Brad Pitt playing the weatherman. Fun fact: The A-list actor only got paid $400 per episode.

#46. Late Night with David Letterman

– IMDb user rating: 7.5
– On air: 1982-1993

Before the “Late Show,” David Letterman spent 11 years at NBC, establishing his late-night voice and carving out a name for himself. It was here he debuted his famous “Top Ten List” (later to become CBS’s “Late Show Top Ten”) and performed recurring skits like “Stupid Human Tricks” and “Viewer Mail.”

#45. Charlie Rose

– IMDb user rating: 7.6
– On air: 1991-2017

For 27 years, Charlie Rose interviewed everyone from Al Gore to Jon Bon Jovi on his eponymous talk show. He was an iconic broadcast journalist; however, the “Charlie Rose” show came to a screeching halt after its host was accused of sexual harassment by several former employees in 2017. PBS swiftly fired Rose, and Bloomberg Television severed ties after The Washington Post published a report detailing eight women’s abuse allegations.

#44. Running Wild with Bear Grylls

– IMDb user rating: 7.6
– On air: 2014-present

Adventurer extraordinaire Bear Grylls became a household name with “Man vs. Wild”—a show in which he showed viewers how to survive some of the planet’s most grueling environments. Though he usually ventured on his own, some of the episodes featured a celebrity tagging along. In 2014, that concept became the focal point of a new show, “Running Wild with Bear Grylls.” The survival skills reality series has starred the likes of Kate Winslet, Channing Tatum, and more A-list celebrities.

#43. Comedy Bang! Bang!

– IMDb user rating: 7.6
– On air: 2012-2016

A spinoff of a podcast of the same name, “Comedy Bang! Bang!” was a parody of late-night talk shows. The series featured real celebrity guests alongside comedy sketches and animated clips, spoofing late-night tropes while conducting real (albeit light) interviews. The show, well-received by both audiences and critics, aired for five seasons, while the podcast that inspired it is still in production.

#42. CBS News Sunday Morning

– IMDb user rating: 7.9
– On air: 1979-present

“CBS News Sunday Morning” has been going strong since 1979. In its 40-plus years on the air, the news magazine show has had three permanent hosts: Charles Kuralt, Charles Osgood, and current host Jane Pauley. Despite its long history, the past decade has been the show’s most successful—winning five Daytime Emmys in the Outstanding Morning Program category since first being nominated in 2013.

#41. The Ed Sullivan Show

– IMDb user rating: 7.9
– On air: 1948-1971

“The Ed Sullivan Show” hit its prime just as television became widely popular in the U.S. The weekly variety show aired every Sunday at 8 p.m. Eastern time. In 1964, the height of its success, it pulled in 14 million weekly viewers. The program’s biggest claim to fame is booking the Beatles’ first live performance in America, which has since become one of the biggest moments in television history.

#40. Eye on Entertainment

– IMDb user rating: 7.9
– On air: 2005-present

Dawna Lee Heising created and hosts “Eye on Entertainment.” Each episode features the actor interviewing figures from different facets of the entertainment industry, from fellow actors and musicians to producers, artists, and more, focusing on independent arts. In January 2025, the show began its 21st season.

#39. My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman

– IMDb user rating: 7.9
– On air: 2018-present

Just a few years after retiring from late-night TV, host David Letterman launched this Netflix series, in which he interviews world leaders and other major celebrities with an intimate, personal approach. While the show is occasionally humorous, it has a much more subdued tone than his late-night work.

#38. Space Ghost Coast to Coast

– IMDb user rating: 7.9
– On air: 1993-2012

“Space Ghost Coast to Coast,” another parody talk show, was an animated series aimed at adults and hosted by the Hanna-Barbera character Space Ghost. Cartoon Network’s first original series aimed at adults featured interviews with real celebrities and ordinary citizens, completed via an ” intergalactic video phone.” Despite its awkward and occasionally hostile humor, the series was a hit with fans. The show would pave the way for Adult Swim and arguably the random, recontextualized humor prevalent today.

#37. The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien

– IMDb user rating: 8.0
– On air: 2009-2010

Conan O’Brien in 2009 was promoted from NBC’s “Late Night,” which he’d hosted since 1993, to the network’s premiere program “The Tonight Show”—a position he’d allegedly been promised in 2001. Six months later, however, O’Brien left the show amid a network feud with Jay Leno.

#36. Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

– IMDb user rating: 8.0
– On air: 2012-2019

Hosted by longtime funnyman Jerry Seinfeld, “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” was a low-key Netflix series where the host invited fellow comedians to drive around in vintage cars with him and eat food or drink coffee at nearby cafes. It was nominated for five Emmys and won five Producers Guild of America Awards. While the show aired its final episode in 2019, it wasn’t until November 2021 that Seinfeld confirmed he was done with the series.

#35. Soul Train

– IMDb user rating: 8.1
– On air: 1971-2006

This musical variety show, which launched in the early ’70s and ran all the way up until 2006, featured music and dance performances by artists rooted primarily in R&B, soul, pop, and hip-hop. In its 35-year run, the show was often called the “Black American Bandstand,” although its original host and creator, Don Cornelius, refuted the title, saying it was for everybody. It held the title of America’s longest-running first-run, nationally syndicated program until 2016, when “Entertainment Tonight” took the title.

#34. Pardon the Interruption

– IMDb user rating: 8.1
– On air: 2001-present

“Pardon the Interruption” is a weekday sports show that airs on ESPN. Hosts Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon cram a lot into the 30-minute airtime, including national headlines, “Five Good Minutes” interviews with sports figures, various games, and the “Big Finish,” where the co-hosts discuss topics at a rapid pace. As the name suggests, Kornheiser and Wilbon often interrupt each other and debate over the topics of the day.

#33. SportsCenter

– IMDb user rating: 8.1
– On air: 1979-present

“SportsCenter” is ESPN’s flagship sports program that airs up to 12 times a day under different editions, offering viewers up-to-date clips of major highlights from games, score reviews, and general sporting news. Almost three dozen anchors currently host the show’s various iterations, including long-timers John Anderson, Linda Cohn, and David Lloyd.

#32. Adam Ruins Everything

– IMDb user rating: 8.1
– On air: 2015-2019

CollegeHumor comedian Adam Conover was the host of “Adam Ruins Everything,” an educational comedy show that debunked common misconceptions viewers held about…everything. During the show’s three seasons, Conover tackled topics ranging from presidential elections to counting calories, encouraging critical thinking from his audience while providing, as critic Andy Dehnart put it, “a highly effective model for overcoming the roadblocks between our brains and reality.”

The series ended in 2019, but Conover went on to host the Obama-produced Netflix limited series “The G Word with Adam Conover” in 2022.

#31. Late Night with Conan O’Brien

– IMDb user rating: 8.2
– On air: 1993-2009

Prior to his TBS show “Conan,” the popular late-night comedian spent 17 years performing on NBC’s “Late Night” franchise after its original host David Letterman moved to the network’s “Tonight Show.” O’Brien’s humor was goofy and often edgy, with lots of wacky stunts and silly sketches. The host spent time riffing with his house band’s drummer Max Weinberg and frequently did skits with Amy Poehler before she joined “SNL.”

#30. Conan

– IMDb user rating: 8.2
– On air: 2010-2021

After the flap with NBC and Jay Leno, late-night host Conan O’Brien permanently separated from his long-time network and migrated to TBS, where “Conan” lived from 2010 to 2021. The half-hour program is similar to its predecessors, albeit skewed toward a younger audience, with a monologue followed by celebrity interviews and a musical guest.

#29. The Dick Cavett Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.3
– On air: 1968-1988

“The Dick Cavett Show” premiered in 1968, six years after “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” Though Carson was the king of late night at the time, Cavett’s show was always seen as the cool alternative because of his rapport with rock ‘n’ roll icons like Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix, despite not caring about the genre itself.

#28. I Hate Everything

– IMDb user rating: 8.3
– On air: 2013-present

Alex Beltman’s series “I Hate Everything” is aptly titled. The YouTuber has been posting videos for the past decade where he slams things like popular video games and movies, toys, and even brands, using black comedy to back his opinions. Beltman may hate a lot of things, but there is one thing he loves: the minions.

#27. The Daily Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.3
– On air: 1996-present

Although “The Daily Show” was originally hosted by comedian Craig Kilborn, it was his successor Jon Stewart who made it famous with his quick wit and sharp political commentary. Stewart was succeeded by Trevor Noah, a fellow comedian who began as a recurring contributor on the satirical news show, which includes monologues, news roundups, political analysis, and guest interviews. Comedy Central said the goal of Noah’s tenure, which began in 2015 and ended in 2022, was to recalibrate the program for a new, younger generation. As of 2025, the series has rotating hosts, including Stewart, who generally takes the helm once a week.

#26. Selena + Chef

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2020-2023

Selena Gomez isn’t just a singer and actor; she’s also an aspiring cook. In “Selena + Chef,” the pop star invites acclaimed chefs into her home to help her make a meal. There are often mistakes along the way, making this show perfect for a viewer learning how to cook themselves. “Selena + Chef” closed out its run on HBO Max in 2022, with a final holiday season airing on Food Network in 2023. The spinoff “Selena + Restaurant” debuted on Food Network in 2024.

#25. Hot Ones

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2015-present

“Hot Ones” has been heating up the internet since it premiered in 2015. Host Sean Evans interviews celebrities while simultaneously going through a gauntlet of 10 hot sauce-drenched chicken wings that increase in intensity. By the bite of the last wing (if the guest can even get to it), the reactions are priceless and never get old, even 26 seasons in.

#24. Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2018-2020

Hasan Minhaj hosted six seasons of this comedy news show on Netflix, focusing on the parts of American society that make us the angriest and providing pathways to solutions. With several accolades, including Emmy and Peabody Awards, the show was not without controversy (the streaming service pulled an early episode that criticized Saudi Arabia). But fans loved it regardless, even petitioning Netflix to reconsider the decision to cancel. “Patriot Act” was the first weekly talk show in the United States hosted by an Indian American.

#23. Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2008-present

This quirky online talk show features Zach Galifianakis sitting awkwardly between two potted ferns while exchanging antagonistic jabs with his guests. The short-form sketches, uploaded to “Funny Or Die” and typically last five or six minutes, often become viral videos. Notable guests have included Hillary Clinton, former President Barack Obama, Bruce Willis, Brad Pitt, Jimmy Kimmel, Justin Bieber, and Bradley Cooper.

#22. The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2005-2015

The third incarnation of CBS’s “Late Late Show” franchise, Craig Ferguson followed in the footsteps of his predecessors Tom Snyder and Craig Kilborn. The late-night show, which ran for over a decade with mostly positive reviews, featured a funny cold open that often included his animatronic skeleton sidekick Geoff Peterson, followed by guests, music, sketches, gags, and other offbeat humor.

#21. The Graham Norton Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2007-present

“The Graham Norton Show” is the quintessential late-night show in the U.K. The weekly program features the eponymous host using his comedic skills while interviewing celebrities in a group interview format. Daily Beast praised the U.K. show’s “pure, unapologetic fun.” Since premiering in 2007, “The Graham Norton Show” has won five BAFTA Awards.

#20. The Ricky Gervais Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.4
– On air: 2010-2012

“The Ricky Gervais Show” was an animated version of the namesake host’s popular British radio program. Gervais, perhaps most famous for being a co-creator of “The Office,” performed the show with fellow comedians Stephen Merchant and Karl Pilkington. It was essentially a cartoon that followed a casual, comedic conversation between the three men, facilitating jokes along the way.

#19. Sneak Previews

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 1975-1996

“Sneak Previews” was Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert’s first film review show, which ran on PBS. The critics, who had a rocky relationship in their early years, discussed the latest movies each week and dissected what they did or didn’t like. At the end of each episode, one of the critics would sign off by saying, “See you at the movies.” The show continued after the pair left in 1981.

#18. You Bet Your Life

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 1950-1961

Originally a radio show before moving to NBC in 1950, “You Bet Your Life” was a quiz show hosted by Groucho Marx. Unlike many of today’s game shows, the series featured a significant amount of conversation between the host and participants, giving it much more of a talk show feel. In 2021, Jay Leno began hosting a reboot of the series, which ended its run in 2023 amid the Writers Guild of America strike.

#17. At the Movies

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 1982-1986

After leaving “Sneak Previews” in 1981, Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert moved to Tribune Entertainment, where they starred in “At the Movies.” The duo left the show in 1986 amid a contract dispute, and the series continued for several more years with film critics Rex Reed and Bill Harris.

#16. The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 1962-1992

The original “King of Late Night,” Johnny Carson took over the “Tonight Show” from Jack Paar in 1962. Carson helmed the megalithic talk show for 30 years. The comedian, prone to light-hearted jokes and friendly, sophisticated humor, launched dozens of comedic careers, including those of Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres, Joan Rivers, and others.

#15. The Being Frank Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 2010-present

Frank D’Angelo is a comedian and entrepreneur, and both aspects of his career are on display on “The Being Frank Show.” The Canadian variety show is equal parts celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and commercials for his products.

#14. The Colbert Report

– IMDb user rating: 8.5
– On air: 2005-2014

After Stephen Colbert’s enormously popular recurring role on Jon Stewart’s “The Daily Show,” Colbert got his spinoff in 2005. “The Colbert Report” ran for almost 10 years before the comedian left to host the “Late Show” on CBS. The news satire program centered around a fictional political pundit who was extremely uninformed and prone to senseless arguments. Colbert stayed in character constantly—through improv sketches and when he interviewed guests.

#13. Siskel & Ebert

– IMDb user rating: 8.6
– On air: 1986-2010

Following “At the Movies,” Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert became the title stars of a new show. For 25 years, viewers could tune in to “Siskel & Ebert” to see the duo’s honest takes on movies. Siskel tragically died in 1999 after suffering surgery complications due to brain tumor treatment. Richard Roeper took his place the following year alongside Ebert.

#12. Inside the Actors Studio

– IMDb user rating: 8.6
– On air: 1994-2019

For 25 years, host James Lipton interviewed some of Hollywood’s most famous actors as part of “Inside the Actors Studio.” The show began as a televised seminar for students of the Actors Studio Drama School, where Lipton was dean emeritus. The Bravo network’s flagship program received 18 Emmy nominations, one of which it won for Outstanding Informational Series or Special in 2013. It moved to Ovation for its 23rd and final season in 2019, which was not hosted by Lipton, who passed away at 93 in March 2020.

#11. Check It Out! with Dr. Steve Brule

– IMDb user rating: 8.6
– On air: 2010-2017

Cartoon Network series “Check It Out! with Dr. Steve Brule” saw John C. Reilly play Dr. Brule, host of a predawn public-access talk show. Reilly’s character is inept and socially awkward—not at all the type of person you’d imagine would host a talk show, fictional or not. During each episode, Dr. Brule invites his audience to join him as he “checks out” some of the most basic facets of human life, from money to boats to relationships.

#10. The Eric Andre Show

– IMDb user rating: 8.6
– On air: 2012-present

Eric Andre’s off-the-wall sense of humor is on full display during the comedian’s namesake show. The format is a talk show parody-sketch comedy hybrid that digresses into absolute and pure chaos by the episode’s end. But in a good way.

#9. Inside the NBA

– IMDb user rating: 8.7
– On air: 1988-present

Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson make up the panel of experts on TNT’s “Inside the NBA.” During each episode, the group discusses basketball news, analyzes gameplay, and makes bets about upcoming matchups. The series has won 21 Sports Emmy Awards throughout its extensive run.

#8. The Grand Tour

– IMDb user rating: 8.7
– On air: 2016-present

“The Grand Tour” is a British motoring show on Amazon Prime Video hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May. The three hosts began producing the show after Clarkson was suspended from their previous BBC show “Top Gear” amid complaints of racism and other ongoing issues. In each episode of “The Grand Tour,” the hosts travel to a different destination to drive cars and discuss auto-related topics.

#7. Top Gear

– IMDb user rating: 8.7
– On air: 2002-2022

“Top Gear” has been a British television institution since it first aired in 1977. The show’s most recent iteration, which premiered in 2002, picked up where its predecessor left off. Its enthusiastic hosts, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, turned the conventional car show on its heels, informing viewers of automobile news through creative (and often humorous) segments that included races and interviewing celebrities in “reasonably priced” cars.

After the original hosts left amid controversy involving Clarkson, BBC found a new trio (Freddie Flintoff, Paddy McGuinness, and Chris Harris) to get into the driver’s seat. Production for the 34th season was halted due to an accident involving Flintoff, and in November 2023, BBC announced the show would not return for the “foreseeable future.”

#6. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver

– IMDb user rating: 8.9
– On air: 2014-present

This satirical late-night news show on Max features comedian John Oliver, a one-time correspondent and fill-in host for “The Daily Show.” The program begins with Oliver performing a humorous and sometimes critical recap of the week’s biggest news events. From there, the show morphs into a panel discussion broken up by funny segments and comedic sketches.

#5. Unstoppable with NBK

– IMDb user rating: 9.1
– On air: 2021-present

“Unstoppable with NBK” is an Indian talk show that’s known for its host Nandamuri Balakrishna’s ability to ask his guests the tough questions. The web series airs on Aha and was the streaming platform’s most popular celebrity talk show after its first season.

#4. On Cinema

– IMDb user rating: 9.2
– On air: 2012-present

On its surface, “On Cinema” is a parody of a film critic talk show, but at its core, the series is much more complex (and strange). Hosted by Tim Heidecker and Gregg Turkington, both known for their bizarre brand of comedy, each episode begins with a review of a movie neither character has seen before, devolving into arguments and rants about Heidecker and Turkington’s fictional lives. “On Cinema” began as a podcast and has transformed into a wacky universe with numerous spinoffs.

#3. Norm Macdonald Live

– IMDb user rating: 9.2
– On air: 2013-2017

Contrary to its name, “Norm Macdonald Live” wasn’t filmed in front of a live audience. Though it shared the same format as a talk show, the series was technically a video podcast that saw Macdonald and fellow comedian Adam Eget indulge in co-host banter, celebrity interviews, and spewing off one-liners.

#2. Best of the Worst

– IMDb user rating: 9.4
– On air: 2013-present

“Best of the Worst” centers on three commentators disparaging the worst B movies, educational films, and instructional videos ever created. The panel typically consists of a combination of Red Letter Media personalities with the occasional special guest. Like “Half in the Bag” (another Red Letter Media production), viewers can only find the series on YouTube.

#1. The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs

– IMDb user rating: 9.5
– On air: 2018-present

Joe Bob Briggs has been a horror icon since the ’80s when he hosted a show called “Joe Bob’s Drive-in Theater.” In 1996, he became even more well-known after taking over hosting duties on “MonsterVision.”

Fans were devastated when the movie commentary show ended in 2000, but it wouldn’t be the last time they saw their favorite horror film buff. The critic made his triumphant return in 2018 with “The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs”—a variety show that sees Briggs not only host horror double features, but also discuss the film’s history, accolades, and importance to the genre during its runtime.

Data reporting by Luke Hicks. Story editing by Carren Jao. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.