There have been many momentous milestones in cinema over the last six decades. Thesefilmsserve as markers of technological advancements, but more importantly, showcase the evolution of creative storytelling. Even for the most casual movie-goer, there is something out there for everyone to enjoy — cementing cinema as one of the most impactful art forms in the media landscape.
In addition to thereturn of major movie franchises throughout 2025,many classic films have massive anniversaries to look forward to, which could signal special edition releases or some other form of recognition. From theiconic works of Alfred Hitchcockto modern classics likeBack to the FutureandThe Shining, these films are treasured by audiences worldwide. It is only fitting to honor the milestones of these cinematic masterpieces from the past six decades.
Mad Max: Fury Road
Cast
Mad Max: Fury Road is a post-apocalyptic film set in a desolate desert landscape where society has collapsed. Released in 2015, the story follows two rebels, Max Rockatansky and Imperator Furiosa, as they attempt to survive and bring balance to a world torn by chaos and strife.
Mad Max: Fury Roadwill celebrate its 10-year anniversary in May. The sequel was directed and co-written by George Miller, and rebooted the franchise after the previous installment in 1985,Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.Mad Max: Fury Roadis the most celebrated in the dystopian universe. The movie swept the Academy Awards, achieving six wins across prominent categories. Its box office performance was outstanding, too, and it earned $380 million in global revenue.
The 2015 action is an incredibly unique viewing experience thanks to its eccentric villains and immersive soundtrack that enhances its world-building.
One thing that is certain isthatMad Max: Fury Roadis one of the most grotesque action movies of the last decade. Although there are a fewharsh realities to watchingMad Max: Fury Roada decade later,the 2015 action isan incredibly unique viewing experiencethanks to its eccentric villains and immersive soundtrack that enhances its world-building.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith details the fall of the Jedi Order and Anakin Skywalker’s transformation under the influence of Darth Sidious. Released in 2005, the film explores Anakin’s internal conflict and the shifting political landscape, leading to the rise of the Galactic Empire.
It is nearly two decades sinceStar Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. More often than not, the sequels are subject to criticism, even now. However,Revenge of the Sithhas come to be regarded as one ofStar Wars’best movies. The sixth movie in the franchise includes the most beloved characters, where the camaraderie between Obi Wan and Anakin in the opening scenes was charming and serves to amplify the explosive nature of their final Duel on Mustafar.
More importantly,Revenge of the Sithconstitutes what’s arguably the most critical era of theStar Warstimeline. The plot ofRevenge of the Sithstill has a bearing on the most recentStar Warsmovies and TV series. For instance,Obi-Wan Kenobiexpanded upon the origins of the prequels elegantly, and has been unofficially commissioned a second series after its release in 2022.
Jaws
Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, follows the residents of Amity Island as they face terror from a menacing great white shark. The town’s police chief, a marine biologist, and a seasoned shark hunter join forces to track and kill the predator threatening their coastal community. Released in 1975.
Jawsis one of the most crucial movies of Steven Spielberg’s career, which made a name for him back in 1975. It’s an undeniable classic that features animatronics that stand the test of time. Based upon a novel by Peter Benchley,Jawsset the standard for delivering blockbuster thrills.
However, the production of Spielberg’s second feature film was almost derailed after the mechanical shark began malfunctioning during filming, forcing a number of rewrites to the script. Ironically, this scarcity of the shark enhancedJaws’s suspense, allowing it to build anticipation for its appearance.
What’s more,Jawsis loosely based upon a true storyof similar events from 1916, where a series of brutal shark attacks became known as the “Jersey Shore Shark Attacks.“Jawshas left an enduring legacyand has become a champion for aquatic life, unintentionally contributing to the misinformation around sharks.
Back to the Future
Back to the Future follows teenager Marty McFly as he is inadvertently sent back to 1955, where he disrupts his parents' meeting. With the assistance of eccentric inventor Doc Brown, Marty must restore the timeline by ensuring his parents fall in love and find a way back to 1985.
Back to the Futureis regarded as one ofthe best movies of all time. Since its release in 1985, the movie has only surged in popularity with the newer generations introduced to the iconic Marty McFly and Doc Brown through streaming services.TheBack to the Futurefranchise is remarkable, not only because the first film is iconic, but because Robert Zemeckis' movie is succeeded by two critically acclaimed sequels. It is rare for a franchise to achieve sustained success, as was the case for Spielberg’sJaws.
However,Back to the Futurewas an instant box office sensation. With its upcoming anniversary in July,Jawswill mark four decades of enduring affection from audiences. As well as this,Back to the Future Part IIIwill celebrate its 35th anniversary on June 02, 2025.
X-Men
X-Men, released in 2000, introduces Wolverine and Rogue as they join Professor Xavier’s private academy for mutants. The resident superhero team, the X-Men, led by Xavier, confronts a terrorist organization of mutants with similar abilities, highlighting the ongoing conflict between humans and mutants.
X-Menis celebrating its 25th anniversary this July. The film was released in 2000, and was a momentous occasion asX-Mendefined the superhero genre long before the more popular entriescame into play, such asIron ManandThe Avengers. It cemented the dominance of superheros in the 21st century, but its reputation has been damaged by the more modern narrative of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
X-Mengrossed $296 million at the worldwide box office (viaBox Office Mojo).
X-Menstars huge stars such as Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, but it was the breakout role for Hugh Jackman — whose role as Wolverine has become his magnum opus.X-Menmay feel slightly dated by contemporary standards, but its status as a classic is unquestionable. It brought together a misfit group of mutants, showcasing their powers and introduced a new formula that had not been done previously on the big screen.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Based on Lee O’Malley’s Scott Pilgrim series of graphic novels, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World follows the titular slacker musician (Michael Cera) as he strives to earn a record deal by winning the Battle of the Bands organized by music mogul Gideon Graves (Jason Schwartzman). After meeting and falling in love with Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), Scott learns that he must also defeat her seven evil exes. Chris Evans, Aubrey Plaza, Brandon Routh, Kieran Culkin, Anna Kendrick, and Brie Larson round out the film’s star-studded and quirky ensemble.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the Worldisa movie that has garnered a cult following since its release. Despite receiving generally positive reviews, the film was mostly overlooked at the box office. Its budget was $60 million, butScott Pilgrim vs. the Worldgrossed $47 million during its premiere.
Since this point, the movie has become one of the most successful comic book adaptations and has a superb reputation with general audiences.Scott Pilgrim vs. the Worldhas a very loyal fanbase which assisted in opening the movie up to new audiences, and gained a growing appreciation for Edgar Wright’s adaptation over time.
In celebration ofScott Pilgrim vs. the World’s 10th anniversary, the cast reunited in 2020 for a virtual table read over Zoom. The stars of Wright’s graphic novel retelling read through the entire script for the charity, Water for People. Appearances included Michael Cera, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and Aubrey Plaza.
4Psycho
65th Anniversary On July 06, 2025
Alfred Hitchcock is known as the Master of Suspense, but his endeavors into horror are just as fruitful as his more commonly known suspenseful thrillers.Psychois a prime example, which will celebrate its 65th anniversary this year. Released in 1960,Psychois commended for its twist endingthat made it one of the first entries into the slasher subgenre, featuring thereal story of Norman Bates.Psychois potentially Hitchcock’s most notable movie, and it prompted a franchise where Anthony Perkins returned to play Norman Bates for three sequels.
10 Unforgettable Villain Performances In Alfred Hitchcock’s Movies
Some of the most frightening villains in cinema history are found in Alfred Hitchcock movies, renowned for their impact and chilling performances.
Without a doubt,some of the concepts within the film were revolutionary for the time. Hitchcock famously ordered theaters to deny permission to audience members who wanted entry after the film had begun. This was the director’s way of preserving the twists inPyscho, while consolidating its role as one of the most influential pieces of cinema.
More than four decades after its release,The Shiningis still a classic in the horror genre. The movie is a fan favorite for its thought-provoking and chilling elements. Stanley Kubrick changed several aspects of Stephen King’s novel, most notablyThe Shining’s ending, much to the writers' dismay. However, it meant that Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall were able to create a captivating horror experience with their own voices.
What is impressive aboutThe Shiningis how many of the most important details were improvised, which includes some of Jack Nicholson’s most famous lines and actions.
What is impressive aboutThe Shiningis how many of the most important details were improvised, which includes some of Jack Nicholson’s most famous lines and actions. The Overlook Hotel has become one of the most iconic locations in horror.The Shiningwent on to receive a sequel in 2019, whereDoctor Sleepfollows a grown-up Danny Torrance as he discovers the Overlook Hotel holds the key to all his powers.
Toy Story
Toy Story is a 1995 animated feature from Pixar Animation Studios. It follows Woody, a cowboy doll, as he faces rivalry with new toy Buzz Lightyear. The film explores the dynamics between the toys as Woody and Buzz are inadvertently separated from their owner, embarking on a journey to return home.
Pixar’s most famous franchise will turn 30 years old this coming November.Toy Storywas a powerhouse in animationduring the mid-1990s which ultimately transformed the landscape of animation completely. The studio was the pioneer of the first feature-length 3D animation.Woody and Buzz Lightyear quickly became household names, and the characters are still cherished today. The franchise continues to grow and gain attention thanks to the number of spinoffs, animated series and specials that continue to welcome new stories from this universe.
Nostalgia fuels the success of theToy Storyfranchise, and the fifth chapter will come to the big screen later in 2026. In the meantime, fans remain hopeful that the studio will be celebrating the anniversary ofToy Storywith new content, or new merchandise that marks the momentous occasion.
Edward Scissorhands
From director Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands follows the titular character, an artificial human created by an inventor, who has scissor blades instead of fingers. After his creator’s death, Edward is taken in by a normal suburban family and becomes attracted to the family’s teenage daughter, Kim Boggs. Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder star as Edward and Kim.
Featuring Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder,Edward Scissorhandsis ranked high among Tim Burton’s movies. While the director and Depp have collaborated extensively, this film stands as their most iconic work.Edward Scissorhandsis acknowledged as a 90s classic that delivers on heavy gothic romance tropes, and gained much of its recognition through its compelling portrayal of a classic Hollywood monster. The movie exemplifies Burton’s signature style, both visually and in underlying themes, making it a crucial component to his filmography.
Edward Scissorhandswas a critical success, too, where it tripled its budget as a result of its box office performance. Currently,Edward Scissorhandsis having success on streaming. The movie arrived on Hulu’s streaming service in October 2024, and began to gain traction with audiences after the momentous success of Burton’sBeetlejuice Beetlejuice.
