For nearly two decades, Christopher Nolan has done the impossible: write and direct smart, labyrinthine films under big studio banners that both critics and audiences adore. He is, squarely, an outlier. Even when sharp-toothed critics attack, the complaints are almost complimentary. If being too “ambitious” or “grandiose” is your biggest fault, you’re probably doing pretty good.
The London-born auteur continues his streak of success with Dunkirk, out today, which is every bit as stunning and scintillating as some his past endeavors. In an attempt to cobble through his varied filmography, we’ve done a bit of ranking. Yes, like any list, it’s inherently imperfect. A bit arbitrary. No, The Dark Knight is not the best film he’s ever made.
Let the debate begin.