10. The Social Network (2010)
The Social Network is a movie that defined the entire decade which it represents. The story of Mark Zuckerberg's rise to fame and the anti-social tendencies Jesse Eisenberg gives him in the movie add a layer of sympathy and dislike for him. Zuckerberg is one of the most well rounded characters to be committed to film in a very long time and David Fincher directs The Social Network in a very unusual manner when compared to his usual style. Fincher has always been a very pragmatic director who can give his movies a sense of shock and remorse which he uses to full effect mostly in his serial killer movies Seven and Zodiac. It's the narrative change from the portrait of hunting a killer to the rise of an internet phenomenon that allows Fincher to really shine in a way few knew he possibly could. As amazing as the acting and directing is in The Social Network the writing is the strongest point of the film. Aaron Sorkin's script not only provides an intense and relevant story but also defines the entire generation of technological advancement and the loss of communication amongst individuals that is the backdrop of the narrative.
9. Schindler's List (1993)
While Jaws will always be my favorite Spielberg film I can't deny that Schindler's List is his best. Spielberg rarely ever tells deeply personal stories and the powerful story he tells in the film suggest he should make personal movies more often. The black and white photography was a stroke of genius since it is able to add a layer of remorse and regret to an already emotionally stunning film. The greatest moment of the film comes when the audience sees a small Jewish girl standing and looking towards the camera. What makes this moment so heart wrenching and beautiful is the fact that the girl's coat is colored red and set against the black and white cinematography. This not only sets the girl apart but also makes for one incredible and strikingly poignant image. Spielberg's directorial style also perfectly suits Liam Neeson's performance as Schindler by allowing him room to breathe and just letting the story naturally unfold.