Movies and cinema have become an integral part of who we are as a society, but not as much as the 20 films on our list. These are the 20 movies you need to watch before you die!

We've included movies of all types, varying from genre to genre and crossing multiple generations, so there's a wide variety of storytelling. Some may say these are some of the best movies ever. Personally, I've seen 19 of the 20 listed. How many have YOU watched?

(Before we get started, you may also be interested in: DIY Home Movie Theater on a Budget.)

*The following movies are in no particular order.
**Some movies on this list are Rated R—parental discretion is advised.

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

the shawshank redemption, movies before you die
Courtesy of Castle Rock Entertainment (via IMDb)

Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman
Synopsis: Two imprisoned men find redemption.

Watch The Shawshank Redemption on Amazon Prime Video

Kristina Shriver
Associate Director of Our Community Now. When not writing or reading, Kristina likes to dance like no one is watching and enjoys speaking in vague movie references/quotes, which only a select few in her circle truly understand. A huge nerd, she loves attending comic book conventions (in costume, of course!) and engaging in geek-fueled conversations with anyone who is willing to listen to her ramble. She also dedicates her spare time to supporting various mental health organizations.
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