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 damn good.
The London-born auteur continues his streak of success with the release of Oppenheimer, a three-hour long tour de force that brings the absolute best out of its actors and proves why Nolan is one of the best in the movie-making business. Filmed in IMAX, Oppenheimer also reinforces why these type of films are made for the big screen as it is equally beautiful as it is brilliant.
With the film’s release, we decided to take a second look at our ranking of Nolan’s entire filmography. Let the debate begin.
(Editor’s note: the ranking has changed since this list was initially published in 2017, and contains light Oppenheimer spoilers).