M. Night Shyamalan Names the Movies He Loves Most of All

M. Night Shyamalan recently opened up about his all-time favorite films in an interview with the American Film Institute (AFI), offering insight into the distinction he sees between a “best movie” and a “favorite movie.”

When asked to name the best movie ever made, Shyamalan didn’t hesitate. He pointed to Francis Ford Coppola’s 1972 classic, The Godfather, calling it “definitely, hands down, for me, a perfect movie.”

The director praised the film’s tone, saying it was flawless from start to finish. “Just a perfect movie, tonally perfect. From beginning to end, which almost cannot be said about any movie, you know, because there are always some bumps, some crookedness on the nose, somewhere that makes a face interesting and wonderful,” he explained.

Shyamalan admired Coppola’s ability to maintain full control over the story and its atmosphere. “I judge the director’s accomplishment by the control of tone. And the control of the tone in that movie was just on another level. So that would be the best movie,” he added.

On the other hand, Shyamalan admitted that his favorite movie is about personal enjoyment rather than critical excellence.

For him, that film is Steven Spielberg’s 1981 adventure, Raiders of the Lost Ark. “My favourite movie, when you say the word ‘favourite,’ there’s a little bit of guilty pleasure in that and a little bit of who you are and what makes you smile, that kind of thing. That would be Raiders of the Lost Ark,” he said. The film, the first in the iconic Indiana Jones series, remains close to Shyamalan’s heart for its fun, excitement, and emotional resonance.

The Godfather is widely regarded as one of the greatest films in cinema history. Critics have praised its storytelling, performances, and intricate depiction of organized crime. Upon release, the movie received overwhelming acclaim and won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Marlon Brando. Raiders of the Lost Ark, meanwhile, is celebrated for its thrilling action sequences and adventurous spirit, earning critical and commercial success while spawning a beloved franchise.

Shyamalan’s distinction between the best film and his personal favorite highlights the difference between artistic mastery and emotional enjoyment. For him, one represents perfection and control, while the other captures joy and nostalgia.

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