This is a list of films for anyone curious about the history of cinema, interested in filmmaking as an art form, and/or hoping to explore filmmaking as a career path. Carefully curated as an essential starter pack (for a nephew of mine), with a healthy dose of personal bias, I hope that this collection of films can help to educate and inspire.

Eventually I hope to have a note for each film explaining its importance (in my opinion), and what one should analyze upon viewing. I recommend watching the films in the order listed, but how you educate yourself is always up to you. Enjoy!