The Best-Rated Movies from 2013

Looking back at the year 2013 in film, it’s clear that it was a standout time for cinema, offering a wide array of memorable and critically acclaimed movies. This was a year that brought us powerful dramas, imaginative animated features, and gripping thrillers that have stuck with audiences ever since. From epic stories of survival and historical sagas to intimate character studies and mind-bending science fiction, 2013 delivered a rich variety of films that catered to every possible taste. Many of these movies not only achieved success at the box office but also earned high praise from both critics and viewers, securing their places as modern classics.

As we dive into the best-rated films from that remarkable year, you’ll see a collection of movies that truly represent the best of what 2013 had to offer. This list is a celebration of the compelling stories, brilliant performances, and visionary filmmaking that defined the year. Whether you’re looking to revisit an old favorite or discover a gem you might have missed, these are the films that received top marks for their quality and impact. Get ready to explore a curated selection of movies that continue to be recognized for their excellence, showcasing just how strong of a year 2013 was for the world of film.

’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)

This film tells the incredible true story of Solomon Northup, a free African American man from upstate New York who is abducted and sold into slavery in the South. The narrative follows his grueling twelve-year ordeal as he is passed from one owner to another, facing immense cruelty and struggling to hold onto his dignity and hope for freedom. His journey is a powerful and unflinching look at the brutality of slavery in pre-Civil War America.

Directed by Steve McQueen, the movie features a remarkable cast led by Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon. The supporting cast includes Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, and Lupita Nyong’o in a breakout role. The film was widely acclaimed and received numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, making it a historically significant and essential piece of cinema.

‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ (2013)

Based on a true story, this movie follows the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a young stockbroker who builds a massive fortune through fraud and corruption in the late 1980s and 1990s. The film depicts his incredibly lavish and chaotic lifestyle, filled with parties, drugs, and reckless spending. It explores the intoxicating allure of wealth and power and the moral decay that comes with it, as Belfort and his associates at Stratton Oakmont indulge in every excess imaginable.

Martin Scorsese directed this energetic black comedy, with Leonardo DiCaprio giving a memorable performance as Jordan Belfort. The film also stars Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, and Matthew McConaughey. Its fast-paced editing, sharp dialogue, and unapologetic portrayal of debauchery made it a controversial but highly praised film. It earned five Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture and Best Actor.

‘Her’ (2013)

Set in the near future, this film centers on Theodore Twombly, a lonely and heartbroken man who works as a professional letter writer. Seeking connection, he purchases a new, advanced operating system with artificial intelligence designed to adapt and evolve. He chooses a female voice for his OS, and she names herself Samantha. Theodore and Samantha soon develop a deep and unconventional romantic relationship.

Spike Jonze wrote and directed this unique and thoughtful science-fiction romance. Joaquin Phoenix stars as Theodore, while Scarlett Johansson provides the voice of Samantha. The film explores modern themes of love, loneliness, and our relationship with technology in a heartfelt and imaginative way. It was highly praised for its originality and emotional depth, winning the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

‘Gravity’ (2013)

The film is a tense science-fiction thriller about two astronauts who find themselves stranded in deep space after their Space Shuttle is destroyed by debris. Dr. Ryan Stone, a medical engineer on her first mission, and veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski must work together to survive the harsh and unforgiving environment. They are completely alone, tethered only to each other as they drift through the blackness, facing dwindling oxygen and long odds of rescue.

Alfonso Cuarón directed this visually stunning movie, which is known for its groundbreaking special effects and immersive cinematography that make viewers feel like they are in space. Sandra Bullock and George Clooney deliver compelling performances as the two stranded astronauts. The film was a major critical and commercial success, winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Director for Cuarón.

‘Prisoners’ (2013)

This gripping thriller follows the frantic search for two young girls who disappear on Thanksgiving Day. As the police investigation, led by Detective Loki, struggles to find leads, one of the girls’ fathers, Keller Dover, decides to take matters into his own hands. Convinced that a recently released suspect knows where the girls are, Keller kidnaps the man and holds him captive, resorting to desperate measures to get information.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the film features a talented ensemble cast including Hugh Jackman as the desperate father and Jake Gyllenhaal as the determined detective. The movie is a dark and intense exploration of morality and how far a person will go to protect their family. Its suspenseful plot and powerful performances were widely praised, establishing it as a standout psychological thriller.

‘Dallas Buyers Club’ (2013)

Based on a true story, this film is set in the mid-1980s and follows Ron Woodroof, a hard-living electrician and rodeo cowboy from Texas. After being diagnosed with HIV and given only 30 days to live, Ron refuses to accept his fate. He begins researching unapproved treatments and starts smuggling them into the United States from other countries. He then establishes a “buyers club” to distribute the drugs to other patients.

The movie was directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and features transformative performances from its lead actors. Matthew McConaughey, who lost a significant amount of weight for the role, stars as Ron Woodroof, and Jared Leto plays Rayon, a transgender woman and Ron’s business partner. Both actors won Academy Awards for their powerful portrayals, and the film itself was nominated for Best Picture.

‘Rush’ (2013)

This biographical sports film dramatizes the intense rivalry between two Formula One drivers, the charming English racer James Hunt and the methodical Austrian driver Niki Lauda, during the 1976 season. The movie contrasts their very different personalities and lifestyles, both on and off the track. Their competition reaches a critical point after Lauda suffers a near-fatal crash and makes a courageous comeback to challenge Hunt for the championship.

Directed by Ron Howard, the film is celebrated for its thrilling race sequences and compelling character study. Chris Hemsworth plays James Hunt, and Daniel Brühl portrays Niki Lauda, with both actors earning praise for their performances. The movie captures the high-stakes, glamorous, and dangerous world of 1970s Formula One racing, offering a captivating look at one of the sport’s greatest rivalries.

‘Captain Phillips’ (2013)

This biographical thriller recounts the 2009 hijacking of the U.S. container ship Maersk Alabama by Somali pirates. The story focuses on the ship’s commander, Captain Richard Phillips, who is taken hostage by the pirates. The film details the tense standoff that ensues between the pirates on the ship’s lifeboat and the U.S. Navy, which is attempting to rescue Phillips.

Paul Greengrass directed the film with his signature documentary-style realism, creating a palpable sense of tension and immediacy. Tom Hanks stars as Captain Phillips, delivering a powerful and acclaimed performance. Barkhad Abdi made his acting debut as the pirate leader Muse, a role for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

‘About Time’ (2013)

This charming romantic fantasy tells the story of Tim Lake, a young man who discovers on his 21st birthday that the men in his family have the ability to travel in time. Tim can’t change history, but he can alter what happens in his own life. He decides to use his gift to improve his life and win the heart of a woman named Mary. The film follows their relationship and Tim’s discovery that his special ability can’t shield him from the everyday sorrows and joys of family life.

Written and directed by Richard Curtis, the film is a heartwarming and life-affirming story about making the most of the time we have. Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams star as the lead couple, with Bill Nighy playing Tim’s wise and loving father. The movie is beloved for its humor, warmth, and poignant message about appreciating the ordinary moments.

‘Before Midnight’ (2013)

This film is the third installment in a series, catching up with Jesse and Céline almost two decades after they first met on a train in Vienna. Now in their early forties and living together in Paris with their twin daughters, the couple is vacationing in Greece. Over the course of one day, they reflect on their past, present, and future together. Their conversations delve into the realities of long-term love, sacrifice, and the challenges of keeping a relationship alive.

Directed by Richard Linklater, the movie continues the naturalistic and dialogue-driven style of its predecessors. Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Linklater, reprise their roles as Jesse and Céline. The film was highly praised for its honest and realistic portrayal of a mature relationship, and the screenplay received an Academy Award nomination.

‘Short Term 12’ (2013)

This independent drama provides an intimate look into the lives of the staff and residents at a group home for at-risk teenagers. The story is told through the eyes of Grace, a passionate and dedicated supervisor who is navigating her own troubled past while trying to help the teens in her care. When a new resident named Jayden arrives, Grace forms a connection with her that forces her to confront her own unresolved trauma.

Written and directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the film is based on his own experiences working at a similar facility. Brie Larson gives a powerful lead performance as Grace, which is considered her breakout role. The film also features a strong supporting cast of young actors, including LaKeith Stanfield, Kaitlyn Dever, and Rami Malek. It was celebrated at film festivals for its raw emotion and authentic storytelling.

‘Blue Jasmine’ (2013)

The film follows Jasmine French, a wealthy and glamorous New York socialite whose life completely falls apart after her husband’s fraudulent business dealings are exposed. Left broke and mentally fragile, Jasmine moves to San Francisco to live with her working-class sister, Ginger. She struggles to adapt to her new, modest circumstances while grappling with her past and trying to piece her life back together.

Written and directed by Woody Allen, this drama is a compelling character study of a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Cate Blanchett delivers a stunning and critically acclaimed performance in the title role, for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Sally Hawkins, who received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Ginger.

‘Nebraska’ (2013)

This black-and-white comedy-drama tells the story of Woody Grant, an aging and stubborn man who is convinced he has won a million-dollar sweepstakes prize. Determined to travel from his home in Montana to Nebraska to collect his winnings, he is joined by his estranged son, David, who agrees to drive him, despite knowing the prize is a scam. Their road trip becomes a journey of rediscovery as they visit Woody’s hometown and reconnect with family and old acquaintances.

Directed by Alexander Payne, the film is a poignant and humorous look at family, aging, and the American Midwest. Bruce Dern stars as Woody, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his touching performance. June Squibb, who plays Woody’s feisty wife, was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress. The film was praised for its heartfelt story and beautiful cinematography and received a total of six Oscar nominations, including for Best Picture.

‘The Wind Rises’ (2013)

This animated historical drama from Studio Ghibli is a fictionalized biography of Jiro Horikoshi, the man who designed the Mitsubishi A5M and A6M Zero fighter planes used by Japan during World War II. The film follows Jiro from his childhood dreams of flying to his career as an innovative aircraft engineer. It also beautifully portrays his personal life, including his loving relationship with his wife, Nahoko, who is battling tuberculosis.

Written and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, the film is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of creativity, passion, and the moral complexities of pursuing one’s dreams. It deals with mature themes and reflects on the beauty of flight contrasted with the destructive purpose of Jiro’s creations. The movie was announced as Miyazaki’s final feature film at the time and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.

‘The Tale of the Princess Kaguya’ (2013)

This animated fantasy film is based on a classic Japanese folktale. It begins when a bamboo cutter discovers a tiny girl inside a glowing bamboo shoot. He and his wife raise her as their own, and she grows rapidly into a beautiful young woman, who they name Princess Kaguya. Believing her to be a divine gift, her father tries to make her a proper noblewoman, but she longs for the simple life and freedom of her childhood in the countryside.

From Studio Ghibli, the film was directed by Isao Takahata and is renowned for its unique and breathtaking visual style, which resembles a traditional Japanese watercolor painting in motion. The story is a poignant and enchanting tale about life, happiness, and the transient nature of beauty. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and is considered a masterpiece of animation.

‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013)

This biographical drama depicts the final 24 hours in the life of Oscar Grant III, a young man who was killed by a transit police officer in Oakland, California, in the early hours of New Year’s Day 2009. The film follows Oscar as he navigates his relationships with his girlfriend, his young daughter, and his mother, showing his efforts to turn his life around before the fateful encounter at the Fruitvale BART station.

Written and directed by Ryan Coogler in his feature directorial debut, the film is a powerful and humanizing portrait of its subject. Michael B. Jordan stars as Oscar Grant, delivering a performance that was widely praised for its depth and emotional impact. The film also features Octavia Spencer as Oscar’s mother. It won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

‘Inside Llewyn Davis’ (2013)

Set in the Greenwich Village folk music scene of 1961, this film follows a week in the life of Llewyn Davis, a talented but struggling folk singer. He navigates a series of misadventures as he couch-surfs, auditions for music executives, and deals with complicated personal relationships, all while carrying a cat that doesn’t belong to him. The film paints a portrait of an artist at a crossroads, trying to make a career in a world that seems indifferent to his art.

Written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, the movie is a somber yet darkly humorous character study. Oscar Isaac gives a breakout performance in the lead role, performing all of his own vocals and guitar playing. The film also features Carey Mulligan, John Goodman, and Justin Timberlake. It was praised for its evocative atmosphere, incredible soundtrack, and compelling depiction of the folk revival era.

‘American Hustle’ (2013)

Inspired by a real-life FBI sting operation from the late 1970s, this film follows brilliant con artist Irving Rosenfeld and his equally cunning partner, Sydney Prosser. After they are caught by an ambitious FBI agent, Richie DiMaso, they are forced to work for him. Their mission is to help expose corruption among public officials, which pulls them into a dangerous and glamorous world of powerbrokers and politicians.

David O. Russell directed this stylish and energetic crime film, which features a star-studded ensemble cast. Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, and Jennifer Lawrence all deliver acclaimed performances. The movie is known for its intricate plot, sharp dialogue, and memorable 1970s fashion and music. It was a major awards contender, receiving ten Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture and in all four acting categories.

‘All Is Lost’ (2013)

This survival drama features a man on a solo voyage in the Indian Ocean who wakes up to find his sailboat has collided with a shipping container and is taking on water. With his navigation and communication equipment damaged, he must rely on his experience and resourcefulness to survive. He faces a violent storm and other dangers as he battles the elements alone, with almost no dialogue spoken throughout the entire film.

Written and directed by J. C. Chandor, the movie is a gripping and minimalist showcase for its sole cast member, Robert Redford. Redford gives a powerful and physically demanding performance that conveys his character’s struggle and determination almost entirely through action and expression. The film was widely praised for its suspense, direction, and Redford’s compelling portrayal of a man pushed to his absolute limit.

‘Frozen’ (2013)

This animated musical fantasy tells the story of two royal sisters in the kingdom of Arendelle. The older sister, Elsa, has the magical power to create ice and snow, which she has hidden from everyone, including her younger sister, Anna. When Elsa’s powers are accidentally revealed at her coronation, she flees, inadvertently plunging the kingdom into an eternal winter. Anna then sets off on an epic journey to find her sister and save their kingdom.

Produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the film was a massive cultural phenomenon. It features the voices of Kristen Bell as Anna and Idina Menzel as Elsa. The movie was praised for its beautiful animation, memorable songs, and its focus on the bond between sisters. It won two Academy Awards, for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for ‘Let It Go’.

‘The Conjuring’ (2013)

Based on a real case file from paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this supernatural horror film tells the story of the Perron family, who move into a secluded farmhouse in Rhode Island in 1971. They soon discover that the house is haunted by a dark and malevolent presence. Desperate and terrified, they seek the help of the Warrens, who must confront the most horrifying case of their careers.

Directed by James Wan, the movie was praised for its old-school horror approach, relying on atmosphere and suspense rather than gore. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga star as Ed and Lorraine Warren, and their performances were noted for grounding the supernatural events in a human story. The film was a major box office success and launched a popular and expansive cinematic universe.

‘Star Trek Into Darkness’ (2013)

In this sequel, the crew of the USS Enterprise is faced with a new and formidable threat. When a shocking act of terrorism is committed by a seemingly unstoppable one-man weapon of mass destruction from within their own organization, Captain Kirk leads a mission into a war-zone to capture him. The crew’s loyalties are tested, and they must make great sacrifices as they are drawn into a high-stakes game of life and death.

J.J. Abrams returned to direct this action-packed science-fiction adventure. The cast, including Chris Pine as Captain Kirk, Zachary Quinto as Spock, and Zoe Saldana as Uhura, all reprised their roles from the previous film. Benedict Cumberbatch joined the cast as the charismatic and menacing villain, Khan. The movie was noted for its thrilling action sequences, visual effects, and the strong chemistry of its cast.

‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’ (2013)

This is the second film in the series, picking up after Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark have returned home as victors of the 74th Annual Hunger Games. Their victory has sparked a rebellion in the districts of Panem, and the tyrannical Capitol is not pleased. To quell the unrest, President Snow announces a special anniversary Hunger Games, known as the Quarter Quell, which will force former victors, including Katniss and Peeta, back into the arena to fight to the death once again.

Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film was praised for deepening the story’s themes and raising the stakes for its characters. Jennifer Lawrence reprises her role as Katniss, delivering another strong performance that captures the character’s strength and vulnerability. The movie was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its engaging plot, compelling action, and faithful adaptation of the novel.

‘Iron Man 3’ (2013)

Following the events of ‘The Avengers’, Tony Stark is struggling with anxiety and insomnia as he grapples with his near-death experience. His world is shattered when a formidable terrorist known as the Mandarin destroys his home and everything he holds dear. Stripped of his resources, Tony must rely on his own ingenuity and instincts to protect those he loves and embark on a journey to find out who is responsible.

Directed by Shane Black, this film takes a closer look at the man inside the suit. Robert Downey Jr. once again delivers a charismatic performance as Tony Stark, exploring a more vulnerable side of the character. The movie is known for its witty dialogue, exciting action sequences, and a surprising plot twist involving the main villain. It was a massive box office success, continuing the popularity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ (2013)

This is the second installment of the prequel trilogy, continuing the adventure of Bilbo Baggins as he journeys with Thorin Oakenshield and his company of Dwarves to reclaim their lost kingdom of Erebor. Along the way, they must navigate the treacherous Mirkwood Forest, confront giant spiders and Wood-elves, and eventually reach Lake-town. Their quest leads them to a final confrontation with the fearsome dragon, Smaug, who guards the treasure within the Lonely Mountain.

Directed by Peter Jackson, the film expands on the world of Middle-earth with new characters and thrilling action sequences. Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo, and Ian McKellen returns as Gandalf. Benedict Cumberbatch provides the voice and motion capture for the dragon Smaug, creating a truly memorable and intimidating villain. The movie was praised for its stunning visual effects and epic scale.

‘The Great Gatsby’ (2013)

This film adapts the classic American novel about Nick Carraway, a young man from the Midwest who moves to Long Island in the spring of 1922. He finds himself living next door to the mysterious and incredibly wealthy Jay Gatsby, who hosts extravagant parties every weekend. Nick becomes drawn into Gatsby’s world of immense wealth and discovers his obsession with reuniting with his former love, Daisy Buchanan, who lives across the bay.

Directed by Baz Luhrmann, the movie is known for its dazzling and opulent visual style, blending the glamour of the Roaring Twenties with a modern soundtrack. Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jay Gatsby, with Tobey Maguire as Nick Carraway and Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan. The film won Academy Awards for its lavish production design and costume design, bringing the iconic story to life with a unique and vibrant energy.

‘The World’s End’ (2013)

This science-fiction comedy follows five childhood friends who reunite in their hometown to re-attempt an epic pub crawl they failed to complete twenty years earlier. Their goal is to reach the final pub on their list, ‘The World’s End’. As they try to reconcile their past with their present, they discover that their town has been taken over by alien robots, and they soon find themselves fighting for the survival of humanity.

Directed by Edgar Wright, this is the final film in his thematic trilogy, which also includes ‘Shaun of the Dead’ and ‘Hot Fuzz’. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost lead the cast, and their comedic chemistry is a highlight of the film. The movie successfully blends humor, action, and heartfelt moments as it explores themes of friendship, nostalgia, and rebellion.

‘This Is the End’ (2013)

This apocalyptic comedy features a group of real-life actor friends playing exaggerated versions of themselves. The story begins with Seth Rogen and Jay Baruchel attending a housewarming party at James Franco’s new home in Los Angeles. Their party is suddenly interrupted by the biblical apocalypse, with disasters and demons descending upon the city. The surviving actors are then forced to barricade themselves inside the house and confront their own egos and strained friendships as they try to survive.

Written and directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film stars a large cast of celebrities, including Jonah Hill, Danny McBride, and Craig Robinson. The movie is known for its self-deprecating humor and over-the-top comedic take on the end of the world. It was praised for its originality and the hilarious chemistry between its stars.

‘Mud’ (2013)

This coming-of-age drama is set on the Mississippi River and follows two teenage boys, Ellis and Neckbone, who discover a man named Mud hiding out on a small island. Mud is a fugitive on the run from bounty hunters, and he tells the boys he is waiting to reunite with his lifelong love, Juniper. The boys agree to help him, and their adventure forces them to confront the complicated realities of love and heartbreak.

Written and directed by Jeff Nichols, the film is an atmospheric and character-driven story. Matthew McConaughey delivers a compelling performance as the enigmatic Mud, continuing a successful run of roles for the actor. Tye Sheridan and Jacob Lofland are also praised for their naturalistic performances as the two young boys. The film was celebrated for its strong storytelling and its rich sense of place.

‘Pacific Rim’ (2013)

Set in the near future, this science-fiction action film depicts a world where humanity is at war with colossal sea monsters called Kaiju, which have emerged from a portal at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. To fight them, humans have created massive humanoid robots called Jaegers, which are controlled by two pilots whose minds are linked together. The story follows a washed-up former pilot and an untested trainee who are paired together to pilot an old Jaeger as humanity’s last hope.

Directed by Guillermo del Toro, the film is a tribute to the giant monster and giant robot genres of Japanese cinema. It is celebrated for its spectacular visual effects and epic-scale action sequences that showcase incredible battles between the Jaegers and Kaiju. The movie offers a fun and imaginative world filled with creative creature and robot designs, making it a favorite among fans of the genre.

Share your favorite movies from 2013 in the comments below.