The Ten Best Spielberg Flicks Every Film Lover Needs To See

When talking about film and great movies to watch, it’s hard for Steven Spielberg’s name not to come to mind. Having directed over 50 movies, and produced over 140 of them, Spielberg’s name has become synonymous with great cinema. However with so many production credits to his name, it can be hard to decide what film of his to watch.

But don’t worry. We at Shalom Life sat through all of his films, took diligent notes, and found the best of the best.

So grab your popcorn, find your seats, and get ready to add some titles to your Netflix queue as we countdown the ten best Spielberg flicks every film lover needs to see.

10. Hook

Starring: Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, Julia Roberts

Released: 1991

While not his best film by any means, Hook was an imaginative retelling of Peter Pan starring the legendary Robin Williams. A fresh look at a timeless tale, Hook was the staple for many children growing up in the 90’s and a film that even kids today can appreciate. While it may not be an award winner, it’s definitely a childhood classic that you can enjoy over and over again.

9. Lincoln

Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis and Sally Field

Released: 2012

One of Spielberg’s latest films, Lincoln follows the story of Abraham Lincoln’s decision to emancipate the slaves and the resistance he felt from both his friends and foes. The film wan nominated for a dozen Oscars, of which it won two (one for best achievements in production design, the second for best performance by an actor in a leading role). Although not yet a classic, the film is a testament on how to direct a period piece and do it right.

8. War Horse

Starring: Jeremy Irvine, Tom Hiddleston, David Thewlis

Released: 2011

A film adaptation of the brilliant stage play, War Horse is a film about a boy reuniting with his beloved horse over the trials, tribulations, and horror of the first World War. Jeremy Irvine’s performance was incredible and Spielberg beautifully captured every second of it. Even if you’re not a fan of animal films, War Horse is sure to captivate you and make you cheer for Irvine’s character the whole way through.

7. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

Starring: Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote

Released: 1982

A story about a boy and his less than human friend, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is a classic. While E.T.’s appearance may have traumatized generations of young children (seriously, he’s a nightmare), the point of the film is beautiful and touching. E.T.’s desire to return to his planet and be accepted by ours, and the journey made through the bonds of true friendship is heartbreaking. The film has even been turned into an amusement park ride that fans of the movie can enjoy (while horrifying anyone who ever thought E.T. was the creepiest looking alien ever).

6. Jurassic Park

Starring: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum

Released: 1993

For anyone who ever dreamed of seeing dinosaurs walk the Earth then Jurassic Park was probably the coolest movie ever. From a terrifying T-rex to velociraptors who hunt in packs (clever girls) this movie was, and still is, and audience favourite. It was even re-released in 3D last year so that audiences could not just see, but could experience the movie. It also sparked hilarious internet controversy as people got up in arms over Spielberg’s supposed dinosaur hunting photo.

Find out what the Top 5 Steven Spielberg films are on the next page!