#10 – The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
The highly anticipated sequel to the legendary, “The Dark Knight” (2008), unfortunately has not held up for me over the years. Being only 13 years old and a massive batman fanboy, I couldn’t even sit still in the cinema upon the films release. At the time I ate the film up and loved it. However, each viewing over the years makes realize the film has too many plot holes and flaws. Ultimately it lacks quality in comparison to the rest of Nolan’s work. However, with this being said the film it’s still very much watchable, especially to Batman fans like myself.
6.5/10.
#9 – Insomnia (2002)
A remake of a Norwegian film of the same name, this is one of the few films where Nolan himself does not have a writing credit. A decent plot with superb acting from Pacino and Robin Williams makes sure the film holds up well. Personally, Insomnia feels like the most detached film Christopher Nolan has made so far. It doesn’t really give me the “Nolan” feel that I’m used to when watching one of his films. However, Insomnia is still a good watch.
7.5/10.
#8 – Following (1998)
Made while studying English Literature at University College London, this was Nolan’s debut feature length film. The mystery/drama is not only short and sweet, it’s also smart, quirky and leaves hints at what is to come for the career of the man behind the camera. While not perfect, it’s still very well done considering it’s a first attempt at a feature.
8/10.
#7 – Batman Begins (2005)
The start of what can be considered the proper rise of the superhero genre, Batman Begins highlights how Nolan can handle the pressure of bringing new life to a character who was thought to be dead after the onslaught of horrible films that happened in the previous decade. Also, Hans Zimmer steps in to create a brand new theme for Batman which resonates throughout the rest of the trilogy and gives me goosebumps every time I hear it. Batman Begins is a solid film, and cements its place high up in the saturated comic book film genre.
8/10.
#6 – Dunkirk (2017)
Nolan’s take on the historic World War 2 event was excellent. It was unconventional, beautifully shot and executed with technical prowess. Nolan’s new partnership with Hoyte Van Hoytema proves to be one that could potentially top the previous partnership with Wally Pfister, as the cinematography for Dunkirk and Interstellar (2014) prove to be some of the best so far for all of Nolan’s films.
9/10.
#5 – Interstellar (2014)
Some may consider this to be too high up on the list, but Interstellar holds a personal spot in my heart. Matthew McConaughey gives an outstanding performance alongside Jessica Chastain. The score is beautiful, which is now a standard for Hans Zimmer at this point. Yes, Interstellar is not perfect as many plot holes can be found. But you cannot deny that it is simply a beautiful film.
9/10.
#4 – Memento (2000)
I will admit – it’s been quite a while since I’ve last seen Memento. However, the plot has had such a lasting effect on me that I’m still aware it must be placed high on the list. Kudos to the teamwork between Nolan and his brother Jonathan in shaping this complex narrative. Memento also marks the beginning of the relationship between Cinematographer Wally Pfister and Christopher Nolan, who would go on to have one hell of a decade together.
9.5/10.
#3 – The Prestige (2006)
Speaking of complex narratives, The Prestige is almost right in line with Memento in that respect. Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale play opposite each other and are both extremely convincing in their rivalry to be the greatest magician around. The film delivers multiple plot twists and will definitely leave you shocked. This one has to be up there.
9.5/10.
#2 – Inception (2010)
Inception, an instant classic upon it’s release in 2010, will most likely be seen as one of the best films of this generation in decades to come. The mind blowing idea of corporate espionage occurring within dreams has to be one of the most creative ideas seen in recent times. When you see it, you will never see anything like it again. Nolan had initially come up with the idea around 10 years beforehand, and the film truly feels like it had been in the making for quite some time due to its quality.
10/10.
#1 – The Dark Knight (2008)
Now yes, I am a massive Batman fan, and I will admit that there is perhaps some bias in that The Dark Knight is #1 on the list. Many people argue that the film is overrated. I simply disagree. The Dark Knight provides a masterclass in acting, storytelling, action and even in special effects, with lots of practical work being done to ground the film in reality. Not only did this film change the way comic book films were made, they also changed the way comic book films were perceived, being the first superhero film to reach $1 billion at the worldwide box office and also the first to win an acting Oscar.
11/10.
Centre of Cinema 