9 Modern Movies Destined to Become Classics

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4 min read

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Some films don’t just entertain; they leave a mark. They spark cultural conversations, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and pull us into entirely new worlds. In the last few years, a handful of movies have risen above the noise to prove they have that rare staying power. From the chaotic brilliance of Everything Everywhere All at Once to the quiet intensity of The Power of the Dog, these films have pushed boundaries in storytelling and style.

Oppenheimer gave us a towering portrait of genius and consequence, while The Batman reimagined a familiar icon through a gritty, noir lens. Sinners and Monkey Man brought fresh perspectives and raw emotion, reminding us that bold, original cinema still has a place. Meanwhile, Dune: Part Two transported us to a sweeping sci-fi epic unlike anything else in theaters, and The Holdovers grounded us in a deeply human, old-school story of connection and purpose.

Whether through groundbreaking visuals, fresh narratives, or magnetic performances, these 9 modern movies aren’t just memorable; they're destined to become classics.

A chaotic, genre-bending ride that somehow captures the absurdity of life, the tenderness of family, and the infinite possibilities of existence—all in one film. With its deeply original storytelling and Michelle Yeoh’s powerhouse performance, this A24 masterpiece redefined what multiverse cinema could be. It’s already a cult favorite and will only age into a classic.

Everything Everywhere All at Once

Jane Campion’s haunting slow-burn Western is a masterclass in restrained storytelling and psychological tension. Anchored by phenomenal performances—especially Benedict Cumberbatch’s career best—this is a film that rewards repeat viewings. Its exploration of masculinity, repression, and loneliness guarantees it a lasting place in cinema discourse.

The Power of the Dog

Christopher Nolan’s ambitious biopic isn’t just about the man who built the atomic bomb; it’s about the moral weight of genius, legacy, and power. With its non-linear structure, towering score, and a riveting performance by Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer is both epic and intimate, destined to be studied and revered for decades.

Oppenheimer

Matt Reeves stripped the cape-and-cowl genre down to a noir-drenched crime thriller, giving us a brooding, detective-driven version of the Dark Knight. With Gotham soaked in atmosphere and Robert Pattinson delivering a fresh, vulnerable take on Bruce Wayne, this version of Batman might just be the one future filmmakers cite as definitive.

The Batman

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A lesser-known entry on this list, Sinners blends gritty storytelling with raw, character-driven drama. Its unflinching look at morality, guilt, and redemption makes it feel timeless, even in its modern setting. As word-of-mouth grows, this could quietly evolve into a sleeper classic.

Sinners

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Dev Patel’s directorial debut is a kinetic explosion of revenge, identity, and righteous fury. Mixing stylized action with emotional depth and cultural commentary, Monkey Man feels like the kind of movie that inspires a new wave of filmmakers. It's bold, unapologetic, and unforgettable.

Monkey Man

a man with a mustache and a mustache on his face

Denis Villeneuve’s sweeping vision of Dune reaches its full operatic potential in this stunning sequel. With breathtaking visuals, tight pacing, and emotionally charged performances, Part Two cements the franchise’s status as a sci-fi epic for the ages. This is how space operas are meant to be told.

Dune: Part Two

A heartfelt, old-school dramedy that feels like it could have been made in the '70s—in the best way. Alexander Payne’s film about loneliness, connection, and finding purpose in unlikely places is driven by richly human performances and timeless themes. A future comfort classic.

The Holdovers

Blending sci-fi satire, conspiracy thriller, and pulp noir, They Cloned Tyrone is one of the most inventive and subversive films in recent memory. With razor-sharp commentary on systemic control wrapped in a stylish, genre-hopping package, it balances absurdity and truth in a way few films dare to try. Anchored by a charismatic trio—John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Jamie Foxx—it’s a film that feels destined to become a cult classic, studied for both its bold storytelling and its deeper social layers.