Words: Hugh Francis Anderson
Movies are, as a matter of social and cultural heritage, some of the most influential and iconic creations in the world. They inspire, show style and excite – and we, at The Gentleman’s Journal, think there is a definitive list of movies that every gentleman should watch. Not only cult classics, they also show the quintessence of what masculinity truly is, and as an ode to our fallen movie-star heroes, we must propagate their greatness. So, gentlemen, here are the 10 best men’s movies of all time.
The Wild One
Way back in 1953, Marlon Brando made cinema history as the cult leader of a rebel motorcycle gang. Revolutionary at the time, The Wild One has gone on to become one of the most stylised, emblematic movies, and one that every man should watch.
Raging Bull
Raging Bull is one of those films that simply oozes masculinity. A box-office hit when it came out in 1980, it is one of Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro’s finest film moments. A journey of violence, aggression, jealously and destruction, Raging Bull is a must watch.
The Godfather
Quite possibly one of the most famous movies to have ever been released, The Godfather epitomises the greatest moment in cinema history. With an outstanding performance from Marlon Brando, this movie reinvigorated the public love for the Mafia – and there are some dapper suits to gander at too.
Bullitt
Bullitt not only brought the idea of reckless, violent car-chases to the forefront of cinema, it’s protagonist, Steve McQueen, also brought the turtleneck to the precipice of fashion. Always effortlessly cool, McQueen’s outstanding performance and sheer masculinity certainly makes this one to watch.
Dr. No
As the first ever James Bond movie, Dr No. is beyond iconic. Sean Connery’s suave personification of Bond brought the ideals of the British gentleman and supremacy to the fore, and with it a franchise that continues to prosper today. Of course, all the Bond movies should be watched, but make sure you start with Dr. No.
The Great Escape
Another McQueen classic, The Great Escape is known the world over, with a theme tune that almost all will remember. A movie most will have seen, the perfect merging between comedy and seriousness is mind-boggling, and with many motorcycle chases, escape attempts and adventures, this is surely one for all men.
The Big Lebowski
The Big Lebowski is pure cinema and comedy gold. Seeking retribution for his ruined rug, and mistaken for a millionaire, Jeff Lebowski aka The Dude, finds himself in the underground world of Los Angeles. A real cult classic, and one that makes all men wish to be so cool, this is certainly one to watch.
The Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
Steve McQueen again, I’m sorry but he’s just so cool! The Thomas Crown Affair demonstrates McQueen at his most stylish, and so he should be playing a bored multimillionaire bank-robber. We love this movie, and we clearly love McQueen, and you should too.
The Talented Mr Ripley
A modern classic, The Talented Mr Ripley demonstrates so many conflicting and complex themes that you’re often left a little baffled. However, the formidable acting, stunning 1950’s styling and tense twists (I won’t ruin anything) certainly makes this a priority on the watch list.
A Single Man
And finally (although there are so many other greats out there) A Single Man, directed by Tom Ford, is, as you can imagine, simply stuffed with style, fashion and sartorial flair. Colin Firth’s outstanding performance as a sexually confused university professor is breathtaking so make sure you watch this movie.
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