12 Timeless Films That Remain Enjoyable to Watch

      We’ve all seen classic films recognized for their greatness but may not be particularly enjoyable.

      These timeless classics easily withstand the test of time.

      Let’s begin.

      Notorious (1947)

      Credit: RKO Radio Pictures

      Alfred Hitchcock’s gripping thriller features Cary Grant as T.R. Devlin, a U.S. agent with a stylish name who enlists the infamous Alicia Huberman (Ingrid Bergman, captivating) to assist him with his operations. Soon, romance blossoms and the situation becomes dramatically complicated.

      The film is remarkable for its intricate heroine, whose integrity is questioned by nearly everyone until the very conclusion.

      What’s most compelling about her? She remains unfazed.

      The Sweet Smell of Success (1957)

      Credit: United Artists

      This tale about powerful columnist J.J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster) and ruthless press agent Sidney Falco (Tony Curtis) is delightful, particularly for its setting — capturing the essence of Broadway in the 1950s.

      A thrilling, unpredictable plot involving Hunsecker’s sister Susan (Susan Harrison) and a jazz guitarist makes it one of the most engaging stories of showbiz ever created.

      It makes today’s dismal media landscape seem relatively refined.

      The Apartment (1960)

      Credit: United Artists

      Throughout this clever, insightful comedy, you’ll repeatedly think: They made this in 1960? The premise — a young clerk who loans out his apartment to executives for covert meetings with vulnerable women — feels grimly relevant even today.

      Yet, you quickly find yourself rooting for the irresistible Shirley MacLaine and the reluctantly heroic Jack Lemmon. It’s easy to spot a modern metaphor here about resisting exploitation.

      MacLaine, Lemmon, director Billy Wilder, and screenwriter IAL Diamond rejoined three years later for Irma la Douce, which revisited themes from The Apartment.

      Psycho (1960)

      Credit: Paramount Pictures

      Psycho will eliminate any thoughts you have that classic films are boring or tedious. From the outset, Janet Leigh’s Marion Crane is a good girl gone astray, stealing from her drunken boss to escape to the Arizona desert and her unreliable boyfriend.

      It’s sensational even before she encounters the psycho of the title.

      Although the revealing ending may disappoint, remember that Psycho premiered at a time when most viewers were unfamiliar with the concept of a psycho. The film ensured they wouldn’t forget.

      Singing in the Rain (1952)

      Credit: MGM

      This film is in color, but that shouldn’t diminish its appeal. If you recall a series of catchy songs and flawless dance routines, that’s perfectly fine.

      However, Singing in the Rain is also a timeless satire on Hollywood’s obsession with trends and superficiality.

      Lina Lamont’s oblivious remark, “I gave an exclusive to every newspaper in town!” may be even more amusing in 2023, as nearly every news story is labeled both “breaking” and “exclusive.”

      All About Eve (1950)

      Credit: 20th Century Studios

      Bette Davis portrays a Broadway star intent on maintaining her stardom, while Anne Baxter plays Eve Harrington, a cunning schemer eager to claim her spot. This dynamic has been revisited countless times, from The Devil Wears Prada to Showgirls, but none have executed it better than All About Eve.

      The film also features an early appearance by Marilyn Monroe.

      Consider, too, how fascinating it is that the line, “Fasten your seat belts, it’s going to be a bumpy night!” emerged shortly after the advent of commercial air travel.

      The General (1926)

      Credit: United Artists

      Buster Keaton’s character supporting the Confederate Army hasn’t aged well, but the rest has stood the test of time.

      This exceptional silent film, initially a box office failure, still resonates due to its meticulously timed slapstick and endlessly inventive comedic sequences. We can guarantee you’ll laugh, both out of joy and relief.

      Keaton, known as “the great stone face,” throws himself into absurdly dangerous yet humorous situations without altering his expression—a talent developed while being tossed around vaudeville stages by his father (which, admittedly, hasn’t aged well either).

      Casablanca (1942)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Casablanca is so dynamic, clever, and humorous that even kids in 2023 are making memes about it.

      “I’m shocked, shocked” remains just as funny today as it was in 1942, and the chemistry between Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman is among the most captivating we’ve ever witnessed.

      When people express their affection for classic films, this is likely the classic they envision. It’s flawless from start to finish.

      Double Indemnity (1944)

      Credit: Paramount Pictures

      It’s undoubtedly the most entertaining film ever created about insurance.

      This noir masterpiece sizzles with unforgettable moments, such as the anklet scene — also known as the “how fast was I going”