Top 10 Thriller Movies Of All Time

Welcome to our countdown of the “Top 10 Thriller Movies of All Time,” where we’ll keep you on the edge of your seat and biting your nails. Thrillers are the bread and butter of the film industry, providing heart-stopping moments and hair-raising twists that leave us gasping for breath. These movies are the cream of the crop, the best of the best, and we’re here to spill the beans on what makes them unforgettable.

Grab your popcorn, sit tight, and prepare for a rollercoaster ride through cinematic history. We’ll dive into spine-chilling plots, unforgettable characters, and shocking endings that will leave your head spinning. Whether you’re a die-hard thriller fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, this list is bound to give you goosebumps.

From psychological mind-benders to pulse-pounding action, these films have stood the test of time and continue to thrill audiences around the globe. So, buckle up and join us as we take a deep dive into the world of suspense, intrigue, and sheer adrenaline. Let’s get this show on the road and uncover the gems that make thriller movies a cut above the rest.

  Detailed Table of Top 10 Greatest Thriller Movies of All Time

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

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Genres: Crime, Drama

Runtime: 2h 34m

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Writer: Quentin Tarantino

Stars Cast: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Amanda Plummer, Maria de Medeiros, Ving Rhames, Eric Stoltz, Rosanna Arquette, Christopher Walken, Bruce Willis

Producers: Lawrence Bender

Release Date: October 14, 1994

IMDB Rating: 8.9

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%

JustWatch Rating: 96%

Box Office Collection: $213.9 million

Famous Quote: “The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men.”

Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

Summary

“North by Northwest” is a classic Hitchcockian thriller that follows the story of Roger Thornhill, a suave advertising executive mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies. As Thornhill tries to clear his name, he finds himself embroiled in a web of espionage, intrigue, and danger.

Cary Grant delivers a charismatic performance as Thornhill, who must navigate a series of thrilling encounters across iconic locations such as Mount Rushmore and the United Nations building. Alongside him, Eva Marie Saint plays Eve Kendall, a mysterious woman whose allegiance remains uncertain.

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock and written by Ernest Lehman, the film is renowned for its gripping plot, clever twists, and stunning set pieces. From the iconic crop-dusting scene to the climactic showdown atop Mount Rushmore, “North by Northwest” keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

With its blend of action, adventure, mystery, and romance, “North by Northwest” remains a beloved classic, earning critical acclaim and box office success upon its release in 1959. Its enduring popularity is reflected in its impressive ratings on platforms like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and JustWatch.

2. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Runtime: 2h 18m

Director: Jonathan Demme

Writer: Ted Tally

Stars Cast: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn, Ted Levine

Producers: Edward Saxon, Kenneth Utt

Release Date: February 14, 1991

IMDB Rating: 8.6

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 95%

JustWatch Rating: 98%

Box Office Collection: $272.7 million

Famous Quote: “A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.”

Where to watch: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu

Summary

“The Silence of the Lambs” is a gripping psychological thriller directed by Jonathan Demme, based on the novel by Thomas Harris. The film follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling, played by Jodie Foster, as she is assigned to interview the brilliant but psychotic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, to gain insight into the mind of another murderer known as Buffalo Bill.

As Starling delves deeper into the twisted world of psychopathy, she forms a complex and dangerous relationship with Lecter, who offers cryptic clues and disturbing insights into Buffalo Bill’s motives. Meanwhile, Buffalo Bill continues to abduct and murder young women, evading capture as the clock ticks down.

With its intense atmosphere, chilling performances, and taut direction, “The Silence of the Lambs” keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout its 2-hour and 18-minute runtime. The film’s exploration of obsession, manipulation, and the darkness of the human psyche has earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Released on February 14, 1991, the film became a commercial success, grossing $272.7 million at the box office. Its impact is evident in its high ratings on platforms like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and JustWatch, reflecting its enduring status as a classic in the thriller genre. The famous quote, “A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti,” delivered by Hopkins as Lecter, has become iconic in cinema history, further cementing the film’s place in popular culture.

3. Se7en (1995)

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 2h 7m

Director: David Fincher

Writer: Andrew Kevin Walker

Stars Cast: Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, John C. McGinley

Producer: Arnold Kopelson

Release Date: September 22, 1995

IMDB Rating: 8.6

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%

JustWatch Rating: 98%

Box Office Collection: $327.3 million

Famous Quote: “What’s in the box?”

Where to watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum

Summary

“Se7en” is a dark and riveting crime thriller directed by David Fincher. The story revolves around two detectives, Detective Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and Detective Mills (Brad Pitt), as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in a nameless city. The killer, who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi, leaves behind a trail of macabre and meticulously planned crime scenes.

As the detectives delve deeper into the case, they encounter horrifying revelations about the human capacity for evil and the consequences of unchecked moral decay. Along the way, they confront their own personal demons and philosophical differences, adding layers of complexity to their pursuit of justice.

With a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes, “Se7en” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its tense atmosphere, clever plot twists, and chilling performances by Pitt, Freeman, and Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Mills’ wife, Tracy.

Released on September 22, 1995, the film received widespread critical acclaim and achieved commercial success, grossing $327.3 million at the box office. Its IMDb rating of 8.6 and JustWatch rating of 98% attest to its enduring popularity among audiences.

The famous quote, “What’s in the box?” uttered by Pitt’s character in the film’s climactic scene, has become iconic, encapsulating the visceral impact and psychological depth of “Se7en.” Overall, the film stands as a masterful exploration of humanity’s darkest impulses and the thin line between good and evil.

4. Psycho (1960)

Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 1h 49m

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Writer: Joseph Stefano

Stars Cast: Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, John Gavin, Martin Balsam, John McIntire, Janet Leigh

Producer: Alfred Hitchcock

Release Date: September 8, 1960

IMDB Rating: 8.5

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%

JustWatch Rating: 96%

Box Office Collection: $50 million

Famous Quote: “A boy’s best friend is his mother.”

Where to watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store

Summary

“Psycho,” directed by the master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock, is a landmark horror thriller that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. The film revolves around Marion Crane, a secretary who steals money from her employer and goes on the run. She checks into the Bates Motel, where she meets the enigmatic Norman Bates, the motel’s proprietor.

As the story unfolds, the audience is drawn into a web of intrigue, mystery, and psychological terror. Norman’s unsettling relationship with his domineering mother and the secrets of the Bates family gradually come to light, leading to a shocking and unforgettable climax.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes, “Psycho” delivers a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, punctuated by Hitchcock’s trademark flair for tension and surprise. The film’s iconic shower scene, accompanied by Bernard Herrmann’s chilling score, remains one of the most famous moments in cinematic history.

Released on September 8, 1960, “Psycho” was a critical and commercial success, grossing $50 million at the box office. Its IMDb rating of 8.5 and high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and JustWatch attest to its enduring appeal.

The famous quote, “A boy’s best friend is his mother,” spoken by Norman Bates, encapsulates the twisted and complex psychology at the heart of “Psycho.” It serves as a chilling reminder of the film’s exploration of the dark recesses of the human mind and the blurred lines between sanity and madness.

5. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 1h 46m

Director: Bryan Singer

Writer: Christopher McQuarrie

Stars Cast: Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin Pollak, Pete Postlethwaite, Kevin Spacey, Suzy Amis, Benicio del Toro, Giancarlo Esposito

Producer: Michael McDonnell

Release Date: August 16, 1995

IMDB Rating: 8.5

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%

JustWatch Rating: 97%

Box Office Collection: $67 million

Famous Quote: “The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.”

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Microsoft Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu

Summary

“The Usual Suspects,” directed by Bryan Singer and written by Christopher McQuarrie, is a gripping crime thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. The story follows a group of criminals, including Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Pollak, and Benicio del Toro, who are brought together by a mysterious figure known as Keyser Söze.

As the narrative unfolds, told through flashbacks from the perspective of the surviving member of the group, Verbal Kint (played by Kevin Spacey), the audience is drawn into a complex web of deception, betrayal, and manipulation. Each character has their own motivations and secrets, and the true identity of Keyser Söze remains a central mystery throughout the film.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes, “The Usual Suspects” is a tightly-paced thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film’s twists and turns, coupled with its stellar ensemble cast and sharp dialogue, have earned it a reputation as one of the greatest crime films of all time.

Released on August 16, 1995, “The Usual Suspects” was both a critical and commercial success, grossing $67 million at the box office. Its IMDb rating of 8.5 and high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and JustWatch reflect its enduring popularity among audiences.

The famous quote, “The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist,” spoken by Verbal Kint, serves as a fitting encapsulation of the film’s themes of deception and illusion. It remains one of the most memorable lines in cinematic history, adding to the film’s enduring legacy.

6. Léon: The Professional (1994)

Genres: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller

Runtime: 1h 50m

Director: Luc Besson

Writer: Luc Besson

Stars Cast: Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, Natalie Portman, Danny Aiello

Producer: Patrice Ledoux

Release Date: September 14, 1994

IMDB Rating: 8.5

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 74%

JustWatch Rating: 97%

Box Office Collection: $45.3 million

Famous Quote: “Mathilda: Is life always this hard, or is it just when you’re a kid? Léon: Always like this.”

Where to watch: Apple TV, Prime Video

Summary

“Léon: The Professional,” directed and written by Luc Besson, is an action-packed crime drama that explores the relationship between a seasoned hitman and a young girl thrust into his world. The film stars Jean Reno as Léon, a solitary and efficient assassin, and Natalie Portman as Mathilda, a 12-year-old girl seeking revenge for the murder of her family.

As the story unfolds, Léon reluctantly takes Mathilda under his wing, teaching her the tools of his trade while forming an unlikely bond with her. Their relationship is tested as they confront corrupt authorities and dangerous criminals, including a deranged DEA agent portrayed by Gary Oldman.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes, “Léon: The Professional” delivers exhilarating action sequences, heartfelt moments, and poignant character development. Besson’s direction, coupled with standout performances from Reno and Portman, elevates the film beyond its genre trappings.

Released on September 14, 1994, “Léon: The Professional” received critical acclaim for its unique blend of action, drama, and emotional depth. While it may not have achieved widespread commercial success, with a box office collection of $45.3 million, the film has since garnered a cult following and earned high ratings on IMDb and JustWatch.

The famous quote, “Mathilda: Is life always this hard, or is it just when you’re a kid? Léon: Always like this,” reflects the film’s exploration of innocence, morality, and the complexities of growing up in a world filled with violence and corruption. It remains one of the most memorable lines from “Léon: The Professional,” adding depth to the relationship between its two central characters.

7. M (1931)

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 1h 57m

Director: Fritz Lang

Writer: Fritz Lang, Thea von Harbou

Stars Cast: Peter Lorre, Gustaf Gründgens

Producer: Seymour Nebenzal

Release Date: May 11, 1931

IMDB Rating: 8.3

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100%

JustWatch Rating: 90%

Box Office Collection: Not Available

Famous Quote: “I can’t help what I do! I can’t help it, I can’t…”

Where to watch: Apple TV

Summary

“M” is a groundbreaking crime thriller directed and co-written by Fritz Lang. Set in Berlin, the film tells the story of a city terrorized by a serial killer who preys on children. Peter Lorre delivers a haunting performance as Hans Beckert, the disturbed and tormented murderer.

As the police and criminal underworld alike intensify their efforts to capture the elusive killer, tension mounts in the city. Meanwhile, Beckert grapples with his own inner demons and compulsion to kill, leading to a gripping climax that challenges notions of justice, morality, and collective responsibility.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 57 minutes, “M” is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, characterized by Lang’s innovative direction and atmospheric cinematography. The film’s exploration of psychological themes and its unflinching portrayal of violence set it apart as a seminal work in the thriller genre.

Released on May 11, 1931, “M” received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Lang’s reputation as one of cinema’s greatest auteurs. While box office data is not available, the film’s enduring legacy is evident in its high ratings on IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and JustWatch.

The famous quote, “I can’t help what I do! I can’t help it, I can’t…“, spoken by Lorre’s character, encapsulates the tortured psyche of the film’s protagonist and underscores the central themes of compulsion and culpability. It remains one of the most memorable lines from “M,” adding to its enduring impact on audiences and filmmakers alike.

8. North by Northwest (1959)

Genres: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 2h 16m

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Writer: Ernest Lehman

Stars Cast: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason, Jessie Royce Landis

Producer: Alfred Hitchcock

Release Date: July 1, 1959

IMDB Rating: 8.3

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%

JustWatch Rating: 96%

Box Office Collection: $9.8 million

Famous Quote: “That’s funny, that plane’s dustin’ crops where there ain’t no crops.”

Where to watch: Google Play Movies, YouTube, Amazon Video online

Summary

“North by Northwest” is a classic thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, renowned for its suspenseful plot and iconic moments. The film follows Roger Thornhill, played by Cary Grant, an ordinary man mistaken for a government agent and thrust into a world of espionage and danger.

As Thornhill tries to clear his name and unravel the mystery, he finds himself embroiled in a web of intrigue, pursued by both the authorities and a shadowy organization. Along the way, he encounters mysterious femme fatale Eve Kendall, portrayed by Eva Marie Saint, and faces off against the sinister Vandamm, played by James Mason.

With a runtime of 2 hours and 16 minutes, “North by Northwest” is a thrilling adventure filled with twists and turns, culminating in a climactic chase scene atop Mount Rushmore. Hitchcock’s masterful direction, coupled with Grant’s charismatic performance, elevates the film to iconic status.

Released on July 1, 1959, “North by Northwest” was a critical and commercial success, grossing $9.8 million at the box office. Its IMDb rating of 8.3 and high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and JustWatch reflect its enduring popularity among audiences.

The famous quote, “That’s funny, that plane’s dustin’ crops where there ain’t no crops,” spoken by Grant’s character, Thornhill, is just one of many memorable moments in the film. It captures the wit and humor that are hallmarks of Hitchcock’s work, adding to the film’s charm and lasting impact.

9. Double Indemnity (1944)

Genres: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, Thriller

Runtime: 1h 47m

Director: Billy Wilder

Writer: Billy Wilder, Raymond Chandler (uncredited)

Stars Cast: Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, Edward G. Robinson, Porter Hall, Jean Heather, Tom Powers, Byron Barr, Richard Gaines, Fortunio Bonanova, John Philliber

Producer: Joseph Sistrom (uncredited)

Release Date: July 6, 1944

IMDB Rating: 8.3

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%

JustWatch Rating: 92%

Box Office Collection: $5 million

Famous Quote: “I love you too, you know.”

Where to watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum

Summary

“Double Indemnity,” directed by Billy Wilder and co-written by Wilder and Raymond Chandler (uncredited), is a classic film noir that epitomizes the genre’s themes of deception, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The story follows insurance salesman Walter Neff, played by Fred MacMurray, who becomes entangled in a deadly plot with femme fatale Phyllis Dietrichson, portrayed by Barbara Stanwyck.

As Neff and Dietrichson conspire to commit murder for insurance money, they find themselves drawn deeper into a web of lies and deceit. Their plans are complicated by the tenacious investigation of claims adjuster Barton Keyes, played by Edward G. Robinson, who becomes suspicious of the circumstances surrounding the death.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes, “Double Indemnity” is a taut and suspenseful thriller, characterized by its moody cinematography, sharp dialogue, and morally ambiguous characters. Wilder’s direction, coupled with Chandler’s hard-boiled screenplay, creates a noir masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences.

Released on July 6, 1944, “Double Indemnity” was a critical and commercial success, grossing $5 million at the box office. Its IMDb rating of 8.3 and high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and JustWatch attest to its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent films in the genre.

The famous quote, “I love you too, you know,” spoken by Stanwyck’s character, Dietrichson, encapsulates the twisted and manipulative nature of the relationship between Neff and Dietrichson. It remains one of the most memorable lines from “Double Indemnity,” adding to the film’s reputation as a classic of film noir.

10. Vertigo (1958)

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Thriller

Runtime: 2h 8m

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Writer: Alec Coppel, Samuel A. Taylor

Stars Cast: James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbara Bel Geddes, Tom Helmore, Henry Jones

Producer: Alfred Hitchcock

Release Date: May 9, 1958

IMDB Rating: 8.3

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%

JustWatch Rating: 95%

Box Office Collection: $7.3 million

Famous Quote: “Only one is a wanderer; two together are always going somewhere.”

Where to watch: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu

Summary

“Vertigo,” directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a mesmerizing mystery thriller that delves into themes of obsession, identity, and illusion. The film follows former police detective Scottie Ferguson, played by James Stewart, who is hired to follow the enigmatic Madeleine Elster, portrayed by Kim Novak, by her husband, Gavin Elster. As Scottie becomes increasingly obsessed with Madeleine, he uncovers a complex web of deceit and manipulation that leads to a shocking revelation.

With a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes, “Vertigo” is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, characterized by its haunting visuals, intricate plot, and emotional depth. Hitchcock’s direction, coupled with Stewart and Novak’s captivating performances, creates a cinematic experience that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.

Released on May 9, 1958, “Vertigo” received critical acclaim for its innovative narrative structure and psychological complexity. While it initially received mixed reviews, the film has since been recognized as one of Hitchcock’s greatest achievements, earning a place in the pantheon of cinematic classics.

Despite its modest box office performance, grossing $7.3 million, “Vertigo” has endured as a timeless masterpiece, with high ratings on IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and JustWatch. The famous quote, “Only one is a wanderer; two together are always going somewhere,” spoken by Stewart’s character, Ferguson, encapsulates the film’s exploration of the power dynamics and symbiotic relationships between its central characters. It remains one of the most memorable lines from “Vertigo,” adding depth to its themes of love, loss, and obsession.

Anas Chaudhary

Anas Chaudhary is a writer at Entertainment 24 Seven, specializing in entertainment news, facts, and trends. He brings a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling to his coverage of the latest happenings in the entertainment world.