As the 2025 Oscars draw near, it is the perfect time to reflect on the cinematic masterpieces that have won the Academy Award for Best Picture. These films represent the pinnacle of storytelling, acting, and filmmaking, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Let us take a journey through some of the most iconic Oscar-winning films from different eras.
Classic Oscar Winners (1930s-1960s)
Gone with the Wind (1939)
This historical romance was the first color film to win Best Picture. Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, Gone with the Wind captivated audiences with its sweeping visuals, dramatic performances, and unforgettable lines like “Frankly, my dear, I do not give a damn.”
Casablanca (1943)
Known as one of the greatest romantic dramas of all time, Casablanca tells a tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience during World War II. Its memorable performances by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, as well as its iconic line “Here’s looking at you, kid,” have cemented its place in film history.
Ben-Hur (1959)
A biblical epic with groundbreaking action sequences, Ben-Hur set a record by winning 11 Oscars, a feat unmatched for decades. The famous chariot race remains one of the most thrilling moments ever captured on film.
Modern Classics (1970s-1990s)
The Godfather (1972) & The Godfather Part II (1974)
These masterpieces by Francis Ford Coppola are more than just mob movies; they are explorations of power, family, and morality. Both films won Best Picture, with The Godfather Part II making history as the first sequel to earn the honor.
Schindler’s List (1993)
Steven Spielberg’s poignant portrayal of the Holocaust is both harrowing and inspiring. The black-and-white cinematography and the iconic red coat scene emphasize the story’s emotional depth, earning it seven Oscars, including Best Picture.
Titanic (1997)
James Cameron’s romantic epic is not only a box office phenomenon but also a critical success, tying the record for most Oscars won by a single film (11). The tragic love story of Jack and Rose aboard the ill-fated Titanic has resonated with audiences for decades.
Contemporary Masterpieces (2000s-Present)
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
The final installment of Peter Jackson’s epic trilogy achieved a clean sweep at the Oscars, winning all 11 categories it was nominated for. Its groundbreaking visual effects, sweeping score, and emotional depth made it a milestone in fantasy filmmaking.
Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite broke barriers as the first non-English language film to win Best Picture. Its sharp social commentary and genre-defying narrative captivated audiences and critics alike, making it a historic Oscar moment.
Everything Everywhere All at Once
Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
A mind-bending tale of multiverse chaos, Everything Everywhere All at Once became a cultural phenomenon. Its unique blend of action, humor, and heart secured it several Oscars, including Best Picture, and highlighted the growing diversity in cinema.
Fascinating Facts About Oscar-Winning Films
- Ben-Hur, Titanic, and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King are tied for the most Oscars won by a single film, with 11 awards each.
- Gone with the Wind was the first color film to win Best Picture, marking a major milestone in cinema history.
- Parasite made history as the first non-English language film to win Best Picture in 2019.
