Eight Movies With the Best Cinematography

Cinematography is the magic that brings movies to life, whether you’re a fresh newbie or a seasoned pro with a shelf full of awards. It’s through cinematography-clever camera angles, lighting tricks, and color choices—that we experience the thrill of cinema. It’s why we grip our seats when someone appears in the window or lets out a scream when a ghost leaps out of nowhere.

In simple terms, cinematography can “make or break” a film. Skilled cinematographers don’t just shoot scenes, rather they create emotions. They can turn a good film into an Oscar or BAFTA-worthy masterpiece, pushing it from great to legendary.

But enough chit-chat. Let’s talk about the best movies with jaw-dropping cinematography.

Collateral (2004)

This film tells us the account of a timid cabbie who does his job honestly but his life goes sideways when he is held captive by a merciless assassin looking to clear his hit list before the night runs out. Dion Beebe,  and Paul Cameron, the DOP duo make use of handheld cameras to perpetuate feelings of closeness and urgency. Similar to all other Michael Mann films. this film too is shot using high-definition cameras, which allows it to have a clean, contemporary aesthetic.

Also, the metropolis of Los Angeles makes for a gorgeous background, especially during the film’s twilight scenes. If we are to give an example, particularly in the climax, the lighting does the job and makes us both hasty and tense. The story, likewise, is well-written and worthy of every applause it has received.

Whiplash (2014)

Whiplash is one of those films where the real MVP isn’t just the story—it’s the cinematography. This masterpiece follows Andrew Neiman, a young jazz drummer with sky-high ambitions, who lands a spot at a prestigious music academy. He joins the band led by Terence Fletcher, a ruthless, no-nonsense instructor who demands perfection at any cost, be it mental torture or relentless pressure.

What makes Whiplash so intense and unforgettable is its clever cinematography. Through tight, claustrophobic shots, we feel every ounce of Andrew’s anxiety as Fletcher’s thirst for perfection takes over. The lighting is the film’s secret weapon, especially during the rehearsal scenes which are filled with warm, moody hues.

Blade Runner (1982)

Blade Runner follows Rick Deckard, a “blade runner” tasked with hunting down and “retiring” four rogue replicants—genetically engineered humans designed for forced labor. These replicants have rebelled against their creators, and it is Deckard’s job to stop them before a full-scale uprising takes place Director Ridley Scott and cinematographer Jordan Cronenweth use shadows and silhouettes to create a dark, moody atmosphere that’s both eerie and mesmerizing.

The neon-lit cityscapes and towering holographic ads give the film a surreal, dreamlike setting. pulling you into a world that feels just as hypnotic as it does dangerous. Equally impressive are the film’s intense fight scenes and the dialogue exchanges. Techniques like slow motion and tight close-ups are ample and will make you feel like you’re right there, caught in the middle of the action. The ending is also well-filmed complete with lighting, and music, and does complete justice to the film’s premise and themes.

Her (2013)

Every Spike Jonze movie nails the art of camerawork, and Her is no exception. Plotwise we are told the story of Theodore Twombly, a lonely and insecure writer who forms a deep connection with Samantha who is not a person, but an AI. Yes, a virtual voice that feels more alive and talks more charmingly than most humans.

The cameras are controlled by genius DOP Hoyte van Hoytema, who leaves nothing to chance. From start to finish, the movie radiates a dreamy, otherworldly vibe that’s impossible to look away from Shot with close and compact framing, the cinematography creates an intimate, almost surreal atmosphere. You feel like you’re right there with Theodore, wrapped up in his emotions and lost in his strange but beautiful world.

A Serious Man (2009)

This Coen Brothers’ gem follows Larry, a physics lecturer in Minneapolis, whose life takes a nosedive when his wife announces she wants a divorce. The film’s storyline is deep and reflective, tackling big questions about religion, ethics, and the endless struggles of life. Roger Deakins, the GOAT of cinematography, takes charge behind the camera and delivers pure brilliance.

True to his style, Deakins sweetens the story with a dark, brooding visual tone that mirrors Larry’s crumbling world. The muted, undersaturated color palette covers the film in a blanket of gloom, which also adds to its themes of despair. Add to that the genius use of wide-angle shots and low perspectives, and you’ve got a film that’s as haunting as it is beautiful.

The Revenant (2015)

This Coen Brothers’ gem follows Larry, a physics lecturer in Minneapolis, whose life takes a nosedive when his wife announces she wants a divorce. The film’s storyline is deep and reflective, tackling big questions about religion, ethics, and the endless struggles of life. Roger Deakins, the GOAT of cinematography, takes charge behind the camera and delivers pure brilliance.

True to his style, Deakins sweetens the story with a dark, brooding visual tone that mirrors Larry’s crumbling world. The muted, undersaturated color palette covers the film in a blanket of gloom, which also adds to its themes of despair. Add to that the genius use of wide-angle shots and low perspectives, and you’ve got a film that’s as haunting as it is beautiful.

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Lawrence of Arabia is about T.E. Lawrence as he tries to befriend Arab tribes during WWI, preparing a revolt against the great Ottoman Empire. Lawrence of Arabia is a treat for the eyes because of Freddie Young’s groundbreaking cinematography. The film is shot in glorious 70mm Super Panavision, delivering jaw-dropping detail and scale, making you feel like you’re right there walking the desert with Lawrence.

One of the most iconic scenes of the film is the beautiful mirage scene where Lawrence comes out of shimmering heat waves. Believe it or not, this scene was created entirely with natural light and real desert conditions, and no special effects were put in place. In addition, Lawrence of Arabia won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography.

Dune

It would be an understatement to call Dune just a film when in reality it is a breathtaking visual journey. Denis Villeneuve adapts Frank Herbert’s epic story of power, destiny, and survival on the desert planet Arrakis, home to the spice and massive sandworms that can devour anything or anyone. The scenes are stunning and blend IMAX cinematography and real desert terrains with mind-blowing practical effects. Not to mention, Hans Zimmer’s haunting score gives this film an otherworldly touch. 

Villeneuve has made ample use of natural light and handcrafted designs to create a tactile, larger-than-life experience rarely seen in modern sci-fi films. Also, did you know that the team even invented a Fremen language to deepen the world-building?