Top 10 Best Indie Movies of All Time
Independent films have long been a space for bold storytelling, unique visions, and creative risks that mainstream studios often shy away from. These films are usually made outside the traditional Hollywood system, meaning they aren't bankrolled or distributed by major studios. Some still receive partial funding from big-name companies, but as long as less than half of their budget comes from a major studio, they're still considered independent. The result? A wide range of movies that challenge norms, push artistic boundaries, and tell stories in ways you might not expect.This list brings together some of the greatest indie films ever made. These movies prove that you don't need a massive budget or blockbuster marketing to create something meaningful. Many have gained cult followings, influenced generations of filmmakers, or even gone on to win major awards. Others might have flown under the radar at first but later found their audience through word of mouth, critical praise, or streaming platforms.
Love Ellen Page in this film as well as Michael Cera (love his voice).
Great film.
This movie is amazing in every way. I watched it first when I was younger, around 10, and I wasn't really sure about it, but now that I am older, I love it and appreciate it very much. It's very truthful about the effects of drugs, not just to the body but to the mind. #1 in my book.
Devastatingly true-to-life portrayal of the extremes of desire for the common man. It is capable of instilling a sense of terror in the minds of most of the young public that passes off getting high as a culture.
Extremely depressing and disturbing film that should be shown in schools for drug prevention. Very heartbreaking.
It's one of my favorite movies of all time. Funny without being silly, and well-acted. Great.
I love this movie! My favorite part is at the end when they're all dancing. Best movie ever!
One of my favorites. Doesn't matter how many times I watch it. Never get bored.
I thought this movie was just so amazing. It was a side of Jim Carrey I had not yet seen that pleasantly surprised me. It was just so great. It makes you think, makes you laugh, makes you cry, just an amazing emotional roller coaster.
Never saw Jim acting like this. He did a wonderful job. It's a great film, a wonderful love story. There might be some fiction in this movie, but the story between the characters is as attached to reality as it could be.
This is absolutely my favorite movie in the entire world. I had to watch it in a film appreciation class my sophomore year of college, and it was amazing.
Pulp Fiction is one of the greatest films ever made. Quentin Tarantino is one of the best screenwriter/directors. There's no way Pulp Fiction isn't top 10.
Considering this may be the best film ever made, it definitely is an insult that it isn't in the top 10.
Beautiful movie! One of the best I've ever seen! Could make a person feel so many emotions, was hilarious, romantic, and just amazing!
It's my favorite movie ever! The pair has great chemistry, and the film consists of really good music and really relatable quotes. "I love us."
The "Expectations vs. Reality" scene with the split-screen is honestly the best scene I have ever watched.
Simply amazing! The actors are great, the music is splendid, the photography is wonderful, and the scenario and dialogue are perfect. I've never seen a movie I love that much.
Heartwarming, charming, and beautiful. Natalie Portman combined with the best soundtrack a movie could have. I loved it the first time and every time I watch it again.
I know every word of this movie. Pure brilliance. Zach Braff is just one of those actors whose delivery of lines resonates with me. He can have me laughing one minute and crying the next.
The Newcomers
A true masterpiece. It's as compelling as it is entertaining. As a university professor, I had a student like the one in this film.
Dante Hicks has a bad day at work, and he's not even supposed to be there today.
Talk about living the dream! Kevin Smith broke free of shift work drudgery by actually making a movie in his workplace.
Great Wes Anderson movie! You've got to love his style. Great acting by Mr. Wilson, and a good storyline. What more would you expect from a movie?
Best movie in this list. Not the most commercial one, but with the unique Wes Anderson style that makes this movie great.
I loved this film. This is one of the foreign films that got me hooked on this genre!
Genius and brutal film by Takashi Miike. Maybe not his best work, but really good.
Must-see film! It takes place in Scotland and tells the story of heroin addicts. Arty vibes and has a cult following in the punk subculture.
This epic 1989 masterpiece is one of my top five favorites of that year. Spike Lee directs this critically acclaimed yet controversial film about the doomed partnership between Mookie, the pizza delivery man (played by Spike Lee), and Sal, the pizza store manager (Oscar nominee Danny Aiello).
The film addresses racial stereotypes and urban life in the racially divided town of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Taking place on the hottest day of the summer, the community consists mostly of Black residents, with a mixture of some whites and Hispanics. All of this later precipitates a string of events leading to violence.
The movie offers a blend of comedy and drama. Granted, there are scenes in the film that are laughable compared to the mostly dramatic scenes, including a riot sequence that eventually results in tragedy. I won't reveal what happens, as not everyone has seen it. The film also fits into the dark comedy genre because of its raw subject matter, which includes the frequent use of profanity and violence, as well as the tragic events that unfold.
I strongly believe this film sends a powerful message on topics such as racism and police brutality. These issues are not only portrayed in the film but are also relevant in real life, as seen in incidents like the Eric Garner case involving the NYPD. From my vantage point, not only is this film entertaining, but it's also the best film of the '80s. At times, it's insane, disturbing, and very difficult to watch.
I also think films about racism in general are important to watch because there are lessons yet to be learned. These lessons are desperately needed to better our community and save lives in the future. In other words, all lives matter, not just one or two. If you're a fan of race drama, I highly recommend this one!
Donnie Darko is one of the best cult classics of its time because it was way before its time. The beauty of its meaning is ridiculing and interesting, all the while giving you a familiar setting. There isn't one second of that movie that had me disinterested. Great acting and best of all, amazing movie.
Time travel at its best. Donnie Darko is my favorite movie of all time. It has a shocking ending and keeps you wanting more. It is a must-see if you enjoy a creepy mind thrill. You won't be able to watch it just once. Trust me.
"This one is for the gore fans." Grindhouse films have a unique feel to them, and Cannibal Holocaust is no exception. An early example of a found footage film, this movie should not be ignored by any means. It really makes you question who is truly civilized.
Amazing performances by all and a storyline to tear your heart out. Definitely a "must-see!"