12 Timeless Films That Remain Enjoyable to Watch

      We have all seen timeless classic films that are undeniably remarkable, yet not particularly enjoyable.

      These iconic movies withstand the test of time.

      Let's begin.

      Notorious (1947)

      Credit: RKO Radio Pictures

      Alfred Hitchcock's thrilling masterpiece features Cary Grant as T.R. Devlin, a U.S. agent with a particularly cool name who enlists the notorious Alicia Huberman (the captivating Ingrid Bergman) to assist him with his questionable tasks. However, as emotions develop, complications arise.

      What stands out is the intricacy of its heroine, whose integrity is challenged by nearly every character until the conclusion.

      The most notable trait about her? She remains unfazed.

      The Sweet Smell of Success (1957)

      Credit: United Artists

      This tale of influential columnist J.J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster) and merciless publicist Sidney Falco (Tony Curtis) is a delight primarily for its setting—Broadway in the 1950s.

      With a gripping, unpredictable storyline involving Hunsecker's younger sister Susan (Susan Harrison) and a jazz guitarist, it becomes one of the most compelling stories from the entertainment industry ever created.

      It makes the current dismal media environment seem almost civilized.

      The Apartment (1960)

      Credit: United Artists

      Throughout this insightful, perceptive comedy, you’ll find yourself repeatedly exclaiming: Did they really make this in 1960? The premise—a young clerk who rents out his apartment to executives for clandestine rendezvous with vulnerable women—is bleak even by today’s standards.

      Yet you quickly find yourself cheering for the charming Shirley MacLaine and the reluctantly heroic Jack Lemmon. A notable modern metaphor emerges regarding resisting authority.

      MacLaine, Lemmon, director Billy Wilder, and screenwriter IAL Diamond reunited three years later for Irma la Douce, revisiting some themes from The Apartment.

      Psycho (1960)

      Credit: Paramount Pictures

      Psycho will shatter any notions that classic films are stuffy and boring. Right from the start, Janet Leigh’s Marion Crane transitions from a good girl to a criminal, stealing from her inebriated boss to escape across the Arizona desert to her unreliable boyfriend.

      It’s incredibly gripping, even before she encounters the film’s titular psycho.

      While the explanatory ending may disappoint, remember that Psycho debuted at a time when most people were unfamiliar with the term "psycho." It ensured they wouldn’t forget.

      Singing in the Rain (1952)

      Credit: MGM

      This film features color, but don't let that deter you. If all you recall are lively songs and flawless dance sequences, that’s perfectly fine.

      However, Singing in the Rain also serves as a timeless parody of Hollywood's tendency to follow trends and its superficiality.

      Lina Lamont’s oblivious declaration, “I gave an exclusive to every newspaper in town!” is arguably even more humorous in 2023, where nearly every news story seems to be both “breaking” and “exclusive.”

      All About Eve (1950)

      Credit: 20th Century Studios

      Bette Davis portrays a Broadway star unwilling to relinquish the spotlight, while Anne Baxter plays Eve Harrington, a cunning manipulator eager to seize her position. This dynamic has appeared countless times since, from The Devil Wears Prada to Showgirls, yet none have executed it better than All About Eve.

      It also features an early appearance by Marilyn Monroe.

      And consider the coolness of the line, “Fasten your seat belts, it’s going to be a bumpy night!” appearing just as commercial air travel was taking off.

      The General (1926)

      Credit: United Artists

      Buster Keaton’s involvement with the Confederate Army hasn’t aged well, but everything else has.

      This remarkable silent film, somewhat of a failure upon release, continues to stand the test of time due to its intricate slapstick comedy and constantly inventive scenarios. You’re guaranteed to find yourself laughing, both in delight and relief.

      Keaton, known as “the great stone face,” throws himself into absurdly violent yet comedic situations without altering his expression—a skill honed from being tossed around vaudeville stages by his father. (Though perhaps that aspect hasn’t aged perfectly either.)

      Casablanca (1942)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Casablanca is so dynamic, clever, and humorous that even today’s youth are crafting memes about it.

      The line, “I’m shocked, shocked,” remains as amusing as it did in 1942, and the chemistry between Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman is amongst the most compelling ever presented on screen.

      When people express their fondness for classic cinema, this is the film they envision. It is flawless from start to finish.

      Double Indemnity (1944)

      Credit: Paramount Pictures

      This film is undoubtedly the most entertaining ever made about insurance.

      This noir classic vibrantly leaps off the screen, particularly in the iconic anklet scene—commonly referred to