Get ready to dive into the cinematic universe of one of our generation’s greatest filmmakers: Christopher Nolan. His star power is at an all-time high, evidenced recently by the sold-out IMAX screenings of Interstellar, marking its tenth anniversary. It’s not just nostalgia; Nolan’s films are crafted for the grand scale of the big screen—he’s essentially a franchise unto himself. And if the lineup of A-list talent eager to join his latest project isn’t convincing enough, what is?
Now, a little disclaimer: the following ranking of Nolan’s movies reflects just one perspective, and opinions can definitely vary. Every fan has their all-time favorite (or least favorite), so I genuinely hope this list sparks some engaging conversations in the comments! We’ve opted to leave out Following—while it’s a fascinating little black-and-white work at only 69 minutes, it doesn’t quite measure up to his later masterpieces. Remember, we’ll assess his films from less favored to top-tier, so if your favorite isn’t revealed immediately, hang tight!
Insomnia (2002)
Now, I’ve got to say—Nolan hasn’t made a bad film in my book. That said, when I mention one as his “worst,” it doesn’t imply it’s lacking. Insomnia, a gripping reimagining of a brilliant Norwegian film, features a noteworthy performance from Stellan Skarsgård that some might argue even overshadows Al Pacino’s stellar portrayal. And who could overlook Robin Williams, delivering an incredibly unsettling take on the antagonist? Paired with Wally Pfister’s stunning cinematography, this film feels the most like an assignment compared to the masterpieces that would follow.
Interstellar (2014)
Interstellar stands as one of Nolan’s most ambitious creations—brilliant in moments yet occasionally tethered by conventional narrative choices. I find its exploration of space to be most enthralling, reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey. However, the subplot involving Matt Damon’s character feels a tad forced and unnecessary. Still, Matthew McConaughey shines in the lead role, and cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema elevates the visual experience to new heights. Although initial box office numbers may have seemed disappointing at $197 million, the film has grown significantly in stature with time, especially post-re-release.
Tenet (2020)
When I first experienced Tenet, it was like diving into an enigma—I struggled to grasp its intricacies due to the muddled sound mixing. Nolan’s tendency to sacrifice dialogue clarity was taken to an extreme here, and I left the theater frustrated. However, on a subsequent viewing at home with subtitles, the film’s brilliance became much more apparent. Like all of Nolan’s projects, it’s visually stunning and features an impressive score by Ludwig Göransson. Interestingly, with this entry, Nolan seems to offer us a glimpse of his potential take on a James Bond-like saga, featuring John David Washington and Robert Pattinson as our leads. Perhaps we’ll see that one day! And good on Nolan for addressing the audio issues—Oppenheimer boasts crystal-clear dialogue.
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Nolan’s conclusion to his Dark Knight trilogy may be viewed as polarizing, yet I found it satisfying, even if it pales compared to its magnificent predecessors. While Tom Hardy’s Bane doesn’t quite measure up to Heath Ledger’s Joker, the film wraps up Bruce Wayne’s storyline in a way that feels deserved and rewarding. Of course, the sound mixing came into focus as an issue in this film, leaving many of us scratching our heads during Bane’s iconic opening sequence attached to IMAX previews of Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol.
Memento (2000)
Placing Memento here might stir up some debate, considering it’s the film that catapulted Nolan into the spotlight. Its structure is nothing short of genius; however, I feel it loses some impact upon revisiting. Nevertheless, its sheer boldness is undeniable, and it showcased the mark of a director destined for greatness.
The Prestige (2006)
This film has consistently been underrated in Nolan’s repertoire. Had it released a few years later under the right marketing banner, it surely would have garnered more attention! Hugh Jackman delivers a phenomenal performance as one of two rival illusionists whose obsession with a teleportation trick spirals into moral chaos. Each revisitation reveals layers in Christian Bale’s performance, making it an enigmatic experience. Plus, can we take a moment to appreciate David Bowie’s exceptional casting as Tesla?
Batman Begins (2005)
With Batman Begins, Nolan reinvented the superhero landscape, inviting viewers into a deeper, character-driven narrative that felt akin to epic adventures like The Last Samurai or Gladiator. Christian Bale transformed Batman into an iconic figure, while Michael Caine’s Alfred is forever my favorite.
Dunkirk (2017)
Nolan’s portrayal of World War II in Dunkirk has sparked mixed opinions. Detractors claim its plot is too thin; however, I believe it effectively immerses audiences in the harrowing evacuation experience. Clocking in as his shortest movie since Following, it also boasts unparalleled technical brilliance. Tom Hardy delivers an unforgettable performance as an RAF pilot, conveying emotion primarily through his expressive eyes.
Oppenheimer (2023)
When Oppenheimer was announced as a three-hour biopic, many joked it would feature nothing but men conversing in rooms. But Nolan has a knack for crafting rich narratives, and this film ranks among the most thrilling three-hour experiences you can have. It’s a stunning masterpiece, led by an extraordinary cast. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of the man who helped shape our world, alongside Robert Downey Jr.’s best performance in years, is nothing short of brilliant.
Inception (2010)
What more can be said about Inception, a defining work in modern sci-fi? It proved to the world that a blockbuster can possess both thrilling action and profound depth, turning audiences into thinkers while raking in millions. Plus, Hans Zimmer’s score remains one of the most iconic in cinematic history.
The Dark Knight (2008)
As stellar as Inception is, Nolan’s tour de force will forever be The Dark Knight. This film remains the ultimate superhero movie, deserving a prominent spot in any discussion about the greatest films of all time. It’s rich in themes and showcases one of the most captivating performances of our era—Heath Ledger as the Joker. Sixteen years later, it’s still the touchstone every aspiring blockbuster seeks to emulate.
