The past decade has brought us an incredible range of films that have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, direction, and cinematography. From post-apocalyptic action to heartwarming musicals and mind-bending sci-fi adventures, these films have made a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Here’s a list of the top 10 movies since 2015, each of which has redefined its respective genre.
1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic world, the fierce Furiosa rebels against the tyrannical ruler Immortan Joe, setting off an intense road war in a high-octane chase for survival.
Accolades: The film won six Academy Awards and was widely praised for its stunning visuals, editing, and direction, making it one of the most influential action films of the decade.
2. Spotlight (2015)
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
Synopsis: This gripping film tells the true story of the investigative journalists at The Boston Globe who uncovered the child abuse scandals within the Catholic Church, exposing a dark side of an institution.
Accolades: Winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture, Spotlight was lauded for its impactful storytelling and timely exploration of systemic issues.
3. La La Land (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.0
Genre: Drama, Music, Romance
Synopsis: Set in Los Angeles, this musical romance tells the story of a jazz musician and an aspiring actress who fall in love while pursuing their dreams, navigating the ups and downs of love and ambition.
Accolades: With six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle, this film became a cultural phenomenon with its beautiful music, direction, and chemistry between its leads.
4. Your Name (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.4
Genre: Animation, Drama, Fantasy
Synopsis: Two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, mysteriously swap bodies and develop a deep, emotional connection across time and space, all while dealing with their own lives.
Accolades: A massive global hit, this Japanese animated film was widely praised for its emotional storytelling, animation, and themes of love and destiny.
5. Parasite (2019)
IMDb Rating: 8.5
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Thriller
Synopsis: A darkly comedic and thrilling exploration of class disparities in South Korea, as a poor family schemes their way into working for a wealthy household, only to face unexpected consequences.
Accolades: The first foreign-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, Parasite was celebrated for its sharp social commentary and inventive storytelling.
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
IMDb Rating: 8.4
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Synopsis: The Avengers must unite to stop the villainous Thanos from collecting all six Infinity Stones, in a race against time to save the universe.
Accolades: One of the highest-grossing films of all time, this epic superhero adventure marked a pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, setting the stage for its explosive conclusion.
7. Joker (2019)
IMDb Rating: 8.4
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Synopsis: A deeply psychological origin story, Joker explores the descent into madness of Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian who becomes the notorious villain of Gotham.
Accolades: Joaquin Phoenix’s haunting portrayal of the character earned him an Oscar for Best Actor, and the film garnered critical acclaim for its dark, introspective narrative.
8. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Synopsis: A mind-bending, multiverse-spanning adventure about an ordinary woman who discovers she can access versions of herself from alternate realities. It’s a journey of family, identity, and destiny.
Accolades: Winning seven Oscars, including Best Picture, this film became a cultural touchstone with its unique blend of genres, heart, and visual innovation.
9. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
IMDb Rating: 8.3
Genre: Action, Drama
Synopsis: A thrilling sequel to the 1986 classic, Top Gun: Maverick follows Pete “Maverick” Mitchell as he returns to Top Gun to train a new generation of pilots, facing challenges of both the sky and his personal life.
Accolades: Nominated for six Oscars, this high-flying action-packed sequel became a massive box office hit and rekindled nostalgia for fans of the original.
10. Oppenheimer (2023)
IMDb Rating: 8.4
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Synopsis: Directed by Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the complex ethical dilemmas surrounding his role in the creation of the atomic bomb.
Accolades: A critically acclaimed masterpiece, Oppenheimer has received widespread recognition for its direction, performances, and its exploration of history’s most consequential scientific achievement.
Conclusion
These films are more than just entertainment – they represent groundbreaking achievements in filmmaking, each making a unique impact on the film industry and audiences alike. From the high-octane thrills of Mad Max: Fury Road to the deep, emotional journeys of Your Name and Parasite, these movies offer a wide range of experiences for all movie lovers. Whether you’re into action-packed blockbusters or thought-provoking dramas, these films from 2015 onward have redefined the cinematic landscape.
Which one of these is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
