Gangster movies have long been one of cinema’s most alluring and intriguing subgenres. Some immerse themselves in the callous grit of gangland brutality while others flaunt an enrapturing sense of style that illustrates the luxury, glamour, and status that comes with a life of organized crime, but all the greatest and most perfect gangster movies are anchored by their thematic interest in issues of morality, violence, power, and opportunity.

Here, we have Hollywood classics that use the ambition and intensity of crime cinema to present barbed visions of the volatility of the American dream and international masterpieces that revel in an arresting sense of grounded and visceral realism. These gangster movies are genuinely perfect from start to finish. In addition to being defining triumphs of the genre, many of these pictures have also come to be accepted among the greatest and most iconic movies ever made.

‘Once Upon a Time in America’ (1984)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

An epic with a runtime of almost four hours, Once Upon a Time in America is the ultimate parable of the misrepresentation of the American dream. Unfolding with a non-linear plot, it follows a group of Jewish gangsters from their humble beginnings as ambitious youths in a New York ghetto to their prominent standing in the city’s underworld, and even to an old age of paranoia, betrayal, nostalgia, and remorse.

Under Sergio Leone’s astute direction, the film captures distinctly different tones with each of its timelines. Further complemented by Ennio Morricone’s masterful score, Tonino Delli Colli’s gorgeous and evocative cinematography, and a cohort of incredible performances, Once Upon a Time in America has overcome several complexities in its initial release. It is now regarded as one of the greatest crime epics of all time and a unique, emotional descent into a life of lawlessness.

‘The Departed’ (2006)

Image via Warner Bros.

Few directors are as celebrated for their contributions to any genre of cinema as Martin Scorsese. One of his most defining triumphs, and the picture that saw him finally win an Academy Award for Best Director, is 2006’s gritty thriller, The Departed, which follows a tense cat-and-mouse game between a mole in the Boston Police Department and an undercover cop in an organized crime syndicate.

The Departed stands among the greatest crime movies Hollywood has produced in recent decades. The Oscar-winning gem is defined by the hard-edged grit Scorsese imbues all his crime pictures with, a magnetic sense of propulsive storytelling and editing, and a litany of astounding performances from the ensemble cast. Its relentless high-stakes suspense presents a raw vision of morality, duplicity, and desperation that makes for one of the defining feats of 21st-century cinema thus far.

‘Angels with Dirty Faces’ (1938)

Image via Warner Bros.

The gangster movies of Old Hollywood may not have had the license to be as graphic as their modern counterparts, but the era still produced many timeless hits, including 1938’s Angels with Dirty Faces. This powerful story of morality, influence, and redemption centers on Father Connolly’s (Pat O’Brien) efforts to guide a group of impressionable youths away from the allure of Rocky Sullivan (James Cagney), a notorious gangster who was once his childhood friend.

Between the two men, the film explores life trajectories with piercing poignancy, illustrating how their lives turned out so drastically. It acknowledges the allure of crime as a pathway to luxury, status, and power, while highlighting Connolly’s complex internal angst through his sorrow for Rocky and his aspiration to steer the boys away from sharing his fate. Anchored by one of the greatest endings in cinematic history, Angels with Dirty Faces is a timeless masterpiece of crime cinema and an underappreciated pioneer of gangster movie tropes that remain in use to this day.

‘Miller’s Crossing’ (1990)

Image via 20th Century Studios

An underrated gem in the stunning filmography of the Coen Brothers, Miller’s Crossing sees the filmmakers implement their trademark blend of cynical wit, offbeat style, and intense character-focused tension in gangster cinema. Functioning as a bleak character study, it follows icy mob strategist Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne) as he navigates an escalating gang war amid Prohibition-era America while adhering to his interplay of personal principle, survival, and shrouded loyalty.

What it lacks in the scope of other, more epic crime films, it more than makes up for with its concentrated, intimate focus on Reagan’s shifting circumstances. Only strengthened by its poetic and biting dialogue, gorgeous noir visuals, and Carter Burwell’s deftly melancholic score, Miller’s Crossing is an engrossing subversion of traditional gangster drama. This emotionally compelling plunge into a jaded protagonist’s peril remains in focus even as the labyrinthian nature of the growing conflict intensifies.

‘Animal Kingdom’ (2010)

Image via Madman Entertainment

Gritty, realistic, and raw, Animal Kingdom cuts down any semblance of romanticism and glory that can surround crime cinema. Here, director David Michôd emphasizes a pervasive air of dread through the story of a crime family’s self-inflicted downfall. Following the death of his mother, teenager Joshua (James Frecheville) is taken in by his uncles and grandmother and exposed to their life of criminal ambition and brutality. Torn between mounting pressure from his besieged family and the offering of help from a cop, Josh struggles to navigate a volatile and escalating situation.

Inspired by the actions of the Pettingill crime family in Melbourne, Animal Kingdom is fundamentally an exercise in ferocious authenticity. However, Michôd imbues it with complexity and Greek tragedy to conjure a powerful sense of resonance through its meditations on morality, ambition, and violence. Aided by a plethora of visceral, note-perfect performances and a razor-sharp screenplay, it represents the very best of modern Australian cinema and stands among the finest crime movies of the 21st century.

‘White Heat’ (1949)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Another gem from Hollywood’s golden era to thrive off the back of a lead performance from James Cagney, White Heat is a landmark gangster movie from a time when the genre had lost its punch following the introduction of the Hays Code. Instead of delivering a spectacle of grim violence or complex morality, it excels as a heart-racing descent into the unstable psychology of Cody Jarrett, a maniacal criminal who breaks out of jail and rallies his crew to carry out a heist.

The erratic volatility of Cagney’s Jarrett, who oscillates violently between his disturbing penchant for violence and equally disturbing adoration of his mother, imbues the film with an unyielding, ferocious intensity. Complimented by one of the most iconic climaxes in gangster cinema, White Heat stands tall to this day as a harrowing deep-dive into criminal psychosis that grapples with the unpredictable terror and white-knuckle tension of gangland amorality.

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

Image via Miramax Films

It is a treacherous path to make a gangster movie feel cool, slick, and stylish without also wrestling with the unbearable psychological duress of a life in organized crime, but if a movie is to take that approach, it doesn’t hurt to be imbued with the panache and punch of Pulp Fiction. A sprawling, non-linear epic that contains everything from atmospheric suspense to hysterical comedy, it follows the intersecting lives of several people involved in L.A.’s criminal underworld.

A defining smash hit of ’90s cinema, it soars off the back of Quentin Tarantino’s intoxicating trademark style, a medley of wit, pop-culture references, and razor-sharp storytelling prowess that enthralls from its opening shot to its final moments. Its litany of iconic scenes, lines, and characters is testament enough to its greatness as a cinematic masterpiece. Moreover, its brilliance as a gangster thriller resides in its subversive boldness, tonal control, glorious unpredictability, and underappreciated analysis of morality in the criminal underworld.

‘City of God’ (2002)

Image via Miramax

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Few movies of any genre are as fiercely impressionable and savagely confronting as City of God. The plot presents a harrowing descent into crime in Rio de Janeiro through the eyes of two childhood friends who take drastically different paths as they reach adolescence. A loose adaptation of Paulo Lins’s semi-autobiographical novel, it unfolds as Rocket (Alexandre Rodrigues) struggles to pursue his dream of becoming a professional photographer and escaping the crime-riddled favela while Li’l Zé (Leandro Firmino) becomes a local crime lord who rules through sadism, brutality, and fear.

Defined by its grim realism, City of God is an unflinching depiction of Brazilian crime that scars viewers with its conviction and ruthlessly confronting violence. It presents the ugly savagery of favela gangs, even going so far as to illustrate how children are both complicit in and victims of the violent cycle of power and evil. A quintessential crime masterpiece, City of God strips gangster cinema of its lavish allure with its exploration of systemic, inescapable poverty.

‘The Godfather’ (1972) & ‘The Godfather Part II’ (1974)

Both The Godfather and The Godfather Part II stand at the pinnacle of cinematic brilliance in their own right. Both films have endured for over 50 years as absorbing stories of morality, corruption, and power bolstered by stunning filmmaking craft, thematically rich drama, and a litany of unforgettable performances. The 1972 original follows a difficult transition of power within the Corleone crime family, while the sequel explores Michael’s (Al Pacino) ambition to expand his empire as well as a young Vito’s (Robert De Niro) rise up the ranks of organized crime in early 20th-century New York.

Whereas many previous gangster movies flaunted an air of anti-hero pulpiness, The Godfather saw Francis Ford Coppola reinvent the genre as a platform for epic tragedy that explores the allure and toxicity of the American dream through organized crime. The two movies present over six hours of faultless cinematic mastery, with every single discipline of filmmaking, from Gordon Willis’s shadowy cinematography to Nino Rota’s iconic score, executed with majesty, precision, and timeless impact.

‘Goodfellas’ (1990)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

“As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster.” The opening narration of Goodfellas is a perfect illustration of the picture that follows, an enrapturing exploration of life in the mafia that captures both the allure of organized crime and the terrifying paranoia that comes with it. Revered as being Martin Scorsese’s defining masterpiece, the biographical drama follows Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) as he rises from his impoverished upbringing to become a major player in his neighborhood’s crime branch. However, the life he always dreamed of achieving fast becomes a waking nightmare.

Here, we have kinetic narrative pacing, Thelma Schoonmaker’s outstanding editing, a brilliant soundtrack, and stunning camerawork that includes one of the greatest long takes the medium has ever seen. Goodfellas uses every tool at its disposal to immerse viewers in Hill’s tumultuous rise and fall as a gangster. It exudes style and flamboyance without ever sacrificing striking realism, a feat that makes it not only one of the greatest crime movies of all time, but one of the finest achievements in cinematic history as well.

Shopping Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale section is a little like treasure hunting. Sure, there are thousands of markdowns to sift through, but every now and then I stumble upon a piece so good it goes straight into my cart before I can overthink it. This week, Nordstrom quietly dropped more than 7,000 new deals, and let’s just say my wallet didn’t stand a chance.

After far too much scrolling (so you don’t have to), I narrowed my favorites down to the 13 hidden gems I’d actually spend my own money on. Inside, you’ll find everything from Levi’s Easy Dad jeans and adidas Sambas sneakers and JW PEI totes — all at seriously good prices. These deals start at just $23, making it way too easy for me to justify hitting “checkout.”

13 Hidden Nordstrom Fashion Finds I Added Straight to My Cart

1. My Favorite: My wardrobe lives and dies by great basics, so this $23 white tee was an instant add to cart. It’s clean, classic and the kind of piece I’ll style with everything from relaxed denim to tailored trousers — was $35, now $23!

2. Timeless Trench: A belted cropped trench coat has been on my fall wish list, and seeing this one marked down $66 made it an instant add to cart. It’s timeless enough to wear for years but still feels fresh thanks to its shorter silhouette — was $199, now $133!

3. Everyday Sparkle: I reach for a dainty pendant necklace almost every day, so finding one this chic for $23 felt like a no-brainer. The sparkling cubic zirconia and delicate gold chain give it that timeless, expensive-looking feel — was $35, now $23!

4. Sleep in Style: I’ve been wanting to upgrade my old PJs, and this matching pajama set feels like the perfect excuse. It’s polished enough for slow weekend mornings, cozy enough for movie nights and is now 34% off — was $85, now $56!

5. Cashmere Crush: If I’m splurging on anything, it’s a short-sleeve cashmere cardigan I’ll wear season after season. The soft knit, subtle puff sleeves and $50 savings made this one impossible to ignore — was $149, now $99!

Related: The 17 Best Under-$100 Fashion Finds in Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale can be overwhelming, especially when there are thousands of deals competing for your attention. Instead of scrolling through page after page of markdowns, I zeroed in on the under-$100 finds that actually deserve a spot in your closet. These are the pieces that combine timeless style, everyday versatility and impressive savings. […]

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6. Worth the Hype: I don’t say this lightly, but Bombas ankle socks completely live up to the hype. They’re soft, breathable and cushioned in all the right places, which is exactly why I’d buy another six-pack — was $84, now $63!

7. Levi’s Forever: Whenever I’m shopping for denim, I almost always check Levi’s jeans first. This Easy Dad style looks just as chic with a simple white tee as it does with a cashmere cardigan — was $110, now $73!

8. Pop of Color: I’ve been wanting to add a red leather shoulder bag to my collection, and The Sak’s Melrose one immediately caught my eye. It’s timeless enough to wear for years but bold enough to make every outfit more interesting — was $159, now $107!

9. Shoe Crush: It only took one look at these Dolce Vita suede mules for them to land in my cart. The rich brown suede and sculptural kitten heel are exactly the kind of details I can’t resist (especially come fall) — was $135, now $90!

10. Pilates Pick: I’ve been wanting to try Zella bootcut leggings, and these immediately landed in my cart. The high-rise waist and flared silhouette feel just as chic for coffee runs as they do for Pilates class — was $79, now $50!

11. Still Trending: Just when I thought I couldn’t justify another pair of adidas Sambas, this chocolate brown colorway appeared. It’s a fresh twist on the cult-favorite sneaker I’ll wear with everything from jeans to dresses — was $100, now $70!

12. Designer Energy: I love when accessories do all the talking, and this JW PEI croc-embossed tote does exactly that. The sleek shape and glossy texture make it look incredibly expensive — was $129, now $85!

13. Pink Perfection: I’m usually drawn to neutral tops, but this Caslon striped rugby polo completely changed my mind. The soft pink hue feels unexpected, while the classic silhouette means I’ll wear it for years — was $70, now $46!

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

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Related: Crocs, Vionic, Franco Sarto! Crocs, Vionic, Franco Sarto!

We still have a few months left of sandal season, however, if you’re like Us, you’re bored with your current lineup. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a (totally justified) excuse to restock, especially with when the most chic brands are on major sale. Spoiler: some are over 50% off. The only catch? Top picks are […]

Take a look at the summer concert docket this year – or any year, really – and you might catch yourself thinking, “Didn’t these guys do a farewell tour already?” The answer, inevitably, will be, “Yes.” In the coming months alone, Motley Crue will be playing sheds around the country, but they also finished up The Final Tour in 2015. That same year, Rush confirmed the R40 Live Tour was to be their swan song, but recently launched a run dubbed Fifty Something, which will stretch well into 2027.

For many artists, a farewell tour is supposed to be exactly that, a final chance for fans to see them before calling it a career. The reality is, plenty of musicians have announced their “last” tour, only to change their minds a few years later. Excuses that they missed performing, needed the paycheck, or simply weren’t ready to quit all lead to the conclusion that retirement in the music business often comes with an asterisk.

Over the years, there have been so many artists who have tearfully said their goodbyes while cashing in on an unsuspecting audience who thinks this might be the last time they will get to see said act, only to find out years later they’ve been hoodwinked when some sort of “comeback tour” is announced. Right now, there’s a slew of artists across all genres on the road or about to head out on what’s being called their last tour. Journey, Megadeth, the Eagles, Ministry, Little Feat, and so many more are offering up a final chance to see them live. When their respective dates come to a close, will that really be it? All we can say is: buyer beware.

Here are 10 farewell tours that turned out not to be goodbye at all, from classic rock legends to heavy metal icons. Some were back on the road within a year or two, while others stayed retired long enough for fans to believe it really was the end…until another reunion was announced.

10

Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra was one of the early artists to pull the “I’m finished” shenanigans, revealing in early 1971 that he would be retiring at the age of 55; not just from performing, but public life as well. Other than a pair of charity commitments that year, he was adamant about being done with the stage and retiring to Palm Springs. At a gala for the Motion Picture & Television Fund on June 13 in Los Angeles, he performed a dress rehearsal set at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion during the day, and in front of a star-studded audience that night in the Ahmanson Theatre. Sinatra closed the performance with the jazz standard “Angel Eyes” and dramatically stepped away from the microphone as he said the final line, “Excuse me while I disappear…”

But unlike an exorcised ghost, the Chairman of the Board couldn’t stay away from the limelight, chalking it up to the pressure he received to return. “Mail, phone calls…just talking to people,” were just some of the reasons he said during 1973 rehearsals for the television special ‘Ol Blue Eyes Is Back, which a new album was titled, too. The studio effort was panned but had no bearing on the desire from audiences to see Sinatra live, and he would continue to appear on stage until 1995.

9

Kiss

Image via Everett Collection

Come 2001, music fans were a bit savvier towards the idea of a goodbye jaunt, doing a collective eye roll when Kiss announced they were going to hang up the platforms and spandex. It took less than two years for that to last, with frontman Paul Stanley later rewriting history by claiming it was meant to be a farewell to the original lineup.

The tour itself was fraught with drama, from drummer Peter Criss letting his contract expire before it ended and guitarist Ace Frehley exiting the band following the final date. Two years later, with half of Kiss masquerading as originals, and Aerosmith onboard as a co-headliner, nostalgia brought overly forgiving audiences out in droves, because you never know when it’s really going to be the last time. For Kiss, that night was December 2, 2023 at the final date of the End of the Road Tour.

Then, last fall, they played three nights of the Kiss Kruise Landlocked in Vegas. How? Because that End of the Road Tour was simply the last with the makeup on. Of course.

8

Elton John

The first time Elton John retired came in front of a stunned audience at Wembley Stadium in November 1977 when he said, “I’ve made a decision that tonight is going to be the last show. There’s more to me than playing on the road.” When he was back tickling the ivories less than two years later, he attributed the announcement to being burned out, and “I was fed up with myself musically.”

“I was stale and stagnant as far as my piano playing went, and vocally I hadn’t improved in three or four years,” John said while promoting his return in 1979. “I could see the touring going on and on, and I thought there just has to be something better than this.”

Years later, he would chalk the move up to his over-the-top drug use. In 2018, John began the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, playing more than 300 shows before it concluded in 2023. He did leave the door open to doing a residency one day, but no more touring; it had become too much of a pain.

Then tickets went on sale earlier this month for two stadium dates in Mexico City. And John has hardly quit playing – averaging about eight shows a year, from corporate events to fundraisers to the rare public gig – but still no full-scale return. To date.

7

The Who

Drummer Keith Moon’s death in 1978 effectively put a period at the end of The Who’s career, though they carried on for a few years with Faces drummer Kenney Jones before calling it quits. Guitarist Pete Townshend said he wanted to focus on his solo career, adding that The Who would continue only as a studio act, when a farewell tour was announced in 1982.

Aside from one-off appearances at Live Aid in 1985 and the 1988 Brit Awards, the band stayed off the road until The Kids Are Alright 25th anniversary tour in 1989, where Townshend tested the stupidity of the concert-going public by insisting The Who hadn’t actually reunited.

“We did our farewell tour,” he said. “We said goodbye… We’re not a group as such anymore. We’ve actually come together, especially, for a 25th birthday party.”

It would be another nine years before The Who toured again, and they never really stopped after that, despite the death of bassist John Entwistle and repeated claims that each new run of dates would positively, probably, be the last.

“The touring is incredibly grinding on the body, and we have to draw a line in the sand somewhere,” singer Roger Daltrey said ahead of 2014’s The Who Hits 50! tour. “This will be the last old-fashioned, big tour.”

Then, last year, the band completed The Song Is Over, solemnly dubbed a “bittersweet final tour” of North America. We’ll see about that.

6

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Image via Robert Bell/INSTARimages

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Lynyrd Skynyrd had earned a little more grace than most bands because of a deeply complicated history. The original group didn’t end because of egos or burnout, but a tragic 1977 plane crash that killed frontman Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and his sister, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and left the rest of the members physically and emotionally scarred for life. Nobody expected anything but the end of the Southern rock outfit for good. A decade later, the surviving members reunited with Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny, handling vocals for what was billed as a tribute tour. That was supposed to be it. Instead, fans kept buying tickets, and Skynyrd kept coming around.

Thirty years later, the group announced the Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour, saying this really would be the final lap. Down to just one original member in guitarist Gary Rossington, one would hope so. Then the pandemic happened, and a good chunk of dates were postponed. When they picked back up, the tour had a new name: the Big Wheels Keep on Turnin’ Tour. And dates kept getting added. When Rossington died in 2023, the band didn’t skip a beat, headlining the Florida Strawberry Festival one week later. These days, it’s pretty clear there’ll never be a Lynyrd Skynyrd farewell tour since ticket sales are still strong for a tribute act in everything but name.

5

Ozzy Osbourne

Image via YouTube

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Coming on the heels of one of his best-received solo efforts, 1991’s No More Tears, Ozzy Osbourne announced that the road jaunt to support it, cleverly dubbed No More Tours, would be his last. The reasoning was that he wanted to spend more time with his family, and – though unknown at the time – he had been misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

While it would’ve been quite a commercial high to go out on, the Ozzman quite finished, launching the Retirement Sucks! tour a few short years later, followed by a full-scale reunion with his bandmates in Black Sabbath. Once the Godfathers of Heavy Metal finished their own final run in 2017, Osbourne went to the well again with No More Tours II.

An unfortunate cocktail of medical maladies and the COVID-19 pandemic brought the trek to an end after just 41 shows. Luckily, fans – and Ozzy – were able to say a proper goodbye with the historic Back to the Beginning show in England last summer as the Prince of Darkness did short solo and Sabbath sets. Just over two weeks later, he was dead. Sad as it was, there was a certain poetry in the way it ended.

4

Nine Inch Nails

Trent Reznor never really did the whole “this is the last tour ever” routine. That’s probably because he’s always been a bit too smart to paint himself into that type of corner. Instead, he announced the 2009 Wave Goodbye tour and said Nine Inch Nails would be disappearing “for a while.” He had recently begun turning more of his attention to film scores, so it sounded believable enough.

The break lasted about four years.

By 2013, Nine Inch Nails was back with a revamped lineup and a world tour, and Reznor was saying he’d been thinking about the band more than he’d expected. Since then, the group has alternated between touring, disappearing again, releasing new music, and disappearing some more. Recently, NIN completed the wildly acclaimed Peel It Back Tour. Towards the end of the dates earlier this year, Reznor once again hinted that the band might be done at its conclusion but cleared it up in mid-March at the final show in Sacramento.

“What I said was, this is the last show of this tour, and we don’t have any shows booked, and we don’t have any plans to book any shows any time in the future so far,” he said from the stage. “That doesn’t mean we may not tour again. We may tour again. It won’t be next month; it won’t be this year. I never said we were intentionally stopping, and I never meant that.”

3

Garth Brooks

Country crossover superstar Garth Brooks announced he was tired of ropin’ the wind back in 2000, ostensibly to raise his three young daughters. There wasn’t much drama attached to it, as he simply decided he’d rather be a father than miss his children grow up. But the problem is, the kids eventually get big and want nothing to do with dad, and, within five years, Brooks was back performing select dates and even did a loosely structured Las Vegas residency.

Brooks was back at it for real by 2014, launching a stadium-sized comeback tour alongside his wife, fellow country star Trisha Yearwood. It didn’t take long for him to start breaking attendance records all over again, proving there was still a massive audience waiting. He added in a more traditional Vegas residency, and this year has begun rolling out dates for the Blame It All on My Roots Arena Tour.

2

Judas Priest

Image via INFevents.com

Not even a decade after Rob Halford returned to Judas Priest, the band decided to end it for good in a yearlong world tour. Billed as the band’s final major trek after more than four decades on the road, the Epitaph World Tour was largely believed to be it for the group. Guitarist Glenn Tipton said they wanted to go out while they could still perform at a high level, and fans believed them.

They shouldn’t have.

Barely two years after wrapping up the run, Priest released the Redeemer of Souls album and were back on the road again. More albums followed, including the critically acclaimed Firepower and 2024’s Invincible Shield, along with plenty of tour dates proving the Metal Gods aren’t quite ready to hang it up. In a slight gesture of fairness, the band later clarified Epitaph was meant to be the last world tour, not the last tour, period. That’s a distinction scores of fans probably didn’t appreciate when they bought tickets thinking they were saying goodbye.

1

Motley Crue

When Motley Crue announced The Final Tour in 2014, it was expectedly theatrical in saying there wouldn’t be a next time. A binding legal “Cessation of Touring Agreement” stating they would never tour again under the Motley Crue name made sure of it. The prop gravestones featuring each member’s name on them drove the point home.

“It’s not gonna be like a Kiss farewell to the farewell to the farewell to the farewell tour,” singer Vince Neil said. “It won’t be like that. We’re not going to say farewell and then try to get people to come back again in a little while.”

Then they did exactly that. Less than four years later, in late 2019, the Crue revealed they’d be back on the road with The Stadium Tour, alongside co-headliners Def Leppard and support from Poison and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts. The reasoning was due to the unexpected success of the Netflix biopic The Dirt, there was an overwhelming demand to see the group live. Combined with the lure of performing in stadiums for the first time, co-founding bassist Nikki Sixx said it was impossible to resist returning. He then stated that he’d like to see Motley continue until their 50th anniversary in 2031.

iShowSpeed has been celebrating win after win over the past few months, from wrapping up a successful tour around the Caribbean to performing his Gold-certified track at the FIFA World Cup. Now, the streamer had even more to celebrate as he neared 60 million YouTube subscribers. However, once he officially hit the milestone, the stream quickly took an unexpected turn.

RELATED: FIFA Reveals Investigation Into Alleged Racist Incident Involving IShowSpeed During World Cup Match

iShowSpeed’s 60 Million Subscriber Celebration Ends With A Hard Fall

On Friday, iShowSpeed had fans excited as he geared toward his goal of 60 million YouTube subscribers. Throughout the livestream, he added one balloon for every 10,000 new subscribers as his supporter count steadily climbed.

After reaching 59.90 million subscribers, the first giant balloon was added, followed by a second balloon after he reached 59.95 million subscribers. Finally, after hitting 59.97 million subscribers, the last balloon lifted Speed into the air as he closed in on 60 million.

Once Speed was lifted high into the air, the celebration quickly took a scary turn. The balloons suddenly popped, sending him crashing back to the ground 

IShowSpeed Reassures Supporters That He’s Okay Following Stream

Speed laid on the ground after the hard fall. And many questioned whether he was okay and if he had suffered any serious injuries. Moments later, the livestream abruptly ended. The streamer later took to his Instagram Story, showing a visibly banged-up and bleeding thumb while receiving medical attention. He also reassured supporters that he was okay following the scary incident.

Speed said, “In a medic I’m okay alright. We’re okay it was crazy. Thank yall for 60 million love yall.”

Social Media Reacts 

Many gathered under The Shade Room and across social media to celebrate IShowSpeed reaching 60 million YouTube subscribers. While celebrating the milestone, many were still shocked by the scary fall. Kai Cenat’s mom even stepped into the comments to celebrate Speed, writing, “I love that boy 😍BLACK EXCELLENCE🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤”

Instagram user @missweets2022 wrote, “We love you too speed 💙🙌🏾” 

Instagram user @tanishalanae added, “I hope his mental health is protected. I’m so proud of this young man. ❤️ “

While Instagram user wrote @thepriizzyshow added, “NO HE JUST DOIN STUFF! HE THINK THIS UP 😂😂😂”

Instagram user @amourmaddii wrote, “Why they take so long to check on him g wtt”

Instagram user @madbeauty_5 added, “This what they mean when they say ” I’II about ts “

RELATED: Another W! iShowSpeed Celebrates As ‘World Cup’ Earns His First Gold Certification (VIDEO)

HBO Max is shooting for the stars this August in every sense of the word.

Many of the new movies and shows the streamer is set to debut this month feature a bounty of stars from the past and present, like Anne Hathaway in the 2026 psychological thriller Mother Mary and Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock as witchy sisters in the 1998 classic Practical Magic.

Its highest profile show, however, is about two space cops investigating a very Earth-bound mystery. Lanterns is another reimagining of the popular DC superhero Green Lantern, with Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart.

Continue reading to find out all the new movies and shows that are coming to HBO Max in August.

August 1

Amy
Barbarian
Bells Are Ringing
Billy Budd
Blockers
Epic
Flipper’s New Adventure
Great White Highway
Hall Pass
Hall Pass: Enlarged Edition
Happy Feet Two
It Comes At Night
Macao
Miss Sloane
Mojave
Murder on the Orient Express (2017)
Orphan
Practical Magic
Put A Ring On It: Cheat Hab
Quo Vadis
Road House (1989)
Sicario
Smart Money
Stand by Me
Strike Up the Band
Taxi!
The Band Wagon
The Crimson Pirate
The Fighting 69th
The Kennel Murder Case
The Rain People
The Sea Chase
The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm
The Wrong Man
The Yearling
Thresher Shark: Stun to Kill
Tusk
Who’s That Knocking at My Door?
You Can’t Get Away with Murder

August 3

Naked And Afraid: Shipwrecked – Season 1

August 4

Chopped: Volume 4 – Season 64
Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Seattle Seahawks

August 6

Monsters of God

August 7

Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage – Season 1
House Hunters International: Volume 9 – Season 215
House Hunters: Volume 11 – Season 260
The Invisible Guest
The Strangers: Chapter 2

August 8

Belle Collective – Season 8

August 9

Heart & Hustle: Houston – Season 2

August 10

Double Lives of Suburban Wives – Season 1

August 11

The Salisbury Poisonings: A Spy Next Door

August 12

Signs of a Psychopath – Season 11

August 13

Building Giants – Season 5
Faster With Newbern and Cotten – Season 3
Isadora Moon – Season 1D
Most Extreme Humans – Season 1

August 14

Normal
Whitmer Thomas: Terminal Crew of Dudes

August 16

Lanterns – Season 1

August 17

Thanksgiving (2023)

August 20

ER: Caught On Camera – Season 1
Expedition X – Season 12

August 21

Conan O’Brien Must Go – Season 3
Mother Mary

August 22

Abbott Elementary – Season 5

August 24

Margarita: Make Your Story Count – Season 3

August 25

“Ben Sasse is Coming Home: Lessons in Life and Death” with Jake Tapper, The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper

August 26

1000-lb Roomies – Season 2
Bobby’s Triple Threat – Season 5
Homestead Rescue: Intervention – Season 1

August 27

Totally ’90s House – Season 1

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August 28

House Hunters: Volume 11 – Season 261
The Producer – Season 1

August 30

Enter Nowhere
Holla
Knock Knock
The Cabin in the Woods
The Strangers: Chapter 1
The Strangers: Prey at Night

August 31

Big Burger Battle – Season 1
The Robot Chicken Adult Swim Special

Congrats! Rapper Asian Doll is officially a girl mom times two. After learning the sex of her second child during a recent ultrasound appointment, she shared her reaction online before asking social media to help her choose a name for her newest addition.

Related: Surprise! Asian Doll Shocks The ‘Net As She Reveals She’s Expecting Her Second Bundle Of Joy (PHOTO)

It’s A Girl! Asian Doll Shares Adorable Reaction To Baby’s Gender Reveal

This week, Asian Doll shared exciting news with her fans. After revealing last month that she is expecting another child, the Dallas rapper has now announced the baby’s gender. In a video posted to social media, Asian Doll captured the moment a nurse revealed the baby’s sex during an ultrasound appointment. The rapper appeared visibly surprised before quickly embracing the news with excitement after learning she is expecting another girl. She later took to X to share her reaction, writing, “I can not believe this sh** omgggggggg my baby gender just gagged me 😂😂🎉.”

Asian Doll Asks Fans To Help Name Her Second Daughter

Following the reveal, Asian Doll admitted she was already struggling to come up with a name for her second daughter. She told fans she wants the baby’s name to follow the same naming pattern as her own and her firstborn daughter’s. In a post on X, she wrote, “My name is Mi’Sharron my daughter name is Mi’Lani wtf is my new daughter gone be ???? 🤨🤨 HELPPPPP lol.” She later followed up with a poll, asking fans to vote between “Mi’Kayla,” “Mi’Lasian,” “Mi’Lania,” or “Something else 😂,” inviting even more suggestions for her baby’s name.

Social Media Floods The Comments With Suggestions

Instagram users wasted no time sharing their ideas for the baby’s name.

Instagram user @tatteonfleek wrote, “Mi’so sorry 😂😂😂”

Another Instagram user @jjallana wrote, “Mi’so soup”

While Instagram user @alleyesondai wrote, “Mi’lasia would be cute”

Instagram user @iamchinaming wrote, “Mi’amor”

Another Instagram user @natalyashanae wrote, “Leave Mi’Alone 😂😂😂😂”

While Instagram user @thetoptea_ wrote, “Mi’lovr is so cute”

Instagram user @adriwadee wrote, “Mi’hateit”

Another Instagram user @aliyahmone.__ wrote, “Mi’Kayla is the only right answer but girl WHAT 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣”

While Instagram user @sweetah_ wrote, “Mi hav no clue”

Related: Moneybagg Yo, Waka Flocka & Asian Doll Speak Out As Social Media Debates Whether Gucci Mane “Snitched” On Pooh Shiesty

Chile! David Mann is proving that no matter how much time passes, there’s always new slang to keep parents on their toes. A recently surfaced family moment has social media cracking up after the actor found himself completely confused by a phrase his kids seemed to expect everyone to know.

RELATED: Uh-Oh! Saucy Santana & Deshae Frost Have Internet Users Crackin’ UP After Running From Apparent Alligator During Livestream (WATCH)

David Mann Gets Stumped By Viral Slang

In a new video circulating on social media, David Mann can be seen relaxing in what appears to be his home office, sitting in a gaming chair. Things quickly take a hilarious turn when his kids repeatedly ask him if he’s “quiet on the creek.” Looking completely puzzled, Mann spins around in his chair with a confused expression before asking them to repeat themselves. As they continue saying the phrase, he finally responds with, “What is ‘quiet on the creek?’“—leaving viewers laughing at the relatable generational disconnect.

TSR Comment Section Has A Field Day

Folks wasted no time running to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section to sound off. While some admitted they were just as confused as David Mann and still have no clue what the phrase means. Others couldn’t get over how much he resembled an older version of Saucy Santana. And, of course, plenty of commenters made it clear they were sitting this slang lesson out.

One Instagram user @sweets_2h_sugar said, “Me when I heard the song and immediately deciding to stick to the rivers and the lakes that I’m used to!! 🤣”

This Instagram user @jzapalvonkrishna added, “He look like the older saucy Santana lol”

And, Instagram user @sadesays commented, “I’m just as confused…. I still don’t get it 😂”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @misslavishlypoppin shared, “I just wanna know where I can get that chair 😂🤞🏽”

While Instagram user @itstamaramyles claimed, “You can tell he was really focused beforehand 😂”

Finally, Instagram user @jayskiiiiii wrote, “MR BROWN AINT NEVER BEEN QUIET NOWHERE 😭😭😭😭 CLOTHES EVEN LOUD”

Yes, We Had To Look It Up Too

Now, if you’re sitting there wondering what “quiet on the creek” even means, trust us—we’re right there with you. The now-viral phrase traces back to one of Saucy Santana’s TikTok Live sessions, where he recalled being told to stay “quiet on the creek” while fishing as a child so the fish wouldn’t get scared away. The clip quickly took on a life of its own after social media users turned it into a meme by adding a dramatic explosion sound effect, and Santana later leaned into the viral moment by dropping a track titled ‘Quiet On the Creek,’ which opens with the original audio.

RELATED: Too Loud On The Creek? Kai Cenat Speaks Out After Saucy Santana Sneaks Onto Streamer University Campus (VIDEOS)

Gisele Bündchen just reminded Us that the most flattering swimsuits don’t have to rely on flashy prints or complicated cutouts. While enjoying a beach day in Costa Rica, the supermodel reached for a timeless black bikini that highlighted exactly why the classic silhouette has remained a favorite for decades. Clean lines, adjustable ties and a simple fit never go out of style — or stop looking good.

Bündchen was spotted strolling along the beach in Costa Rica wearing the minimalist black two-piece, proving that sometimes less really is more. The halter triangle top offers customizable support, while the tie-side bottoms let you adjust the fit to your body, making the silhouette especially flattering at any age. While her exact bikini has since sold out, we found a remarkably similar version for just $26 on Amazon.

Get the Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set for $26 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set captures the same effortless, beach-ready vibe as Bündchen’s look without the designer price tag. Available in classic black as well as orange, teal, pink and several other colors, the Amazon bestseller has already been purchased more than 1,000 times in the past month.

Related: Steal Gigi Hadid’s French Girl-Style Ballet Flats Look for $40

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If anyone can convince Us to embrace the French girl style, it’s Gigi Hadid. The supermodel stepped out in an effortlessly chic outfit that makes you want to book a flight to Paris, and it was complete with one timeless shoe trend stylish French women never seem to retire. Even better? You can steal the […]

Beyond its timeless design, the bikini is packed with thoughtful details that help create a flattering fit. The halter top ties at the neck and back for easy adjustments, removable padded cups let you customize the coverage and the Brazilian-cut bottoms feature subtle ruching in the back for a sculpted look. The smooth, stretchy fabric is also designed to move comfortably whether you’re swimming, sunbathing or walking along the shore.

The bikini has also earned more than 9,500 five-star ratings from shoppers. One reviewer called it “surprisingly flattering,” adding that it makes their “chest look great” and the ruching is especially great for “fuller bottomed girls.” Another buyer praised its “classic, simple look,” saying it’s “minimal but still feels secure enough for lounging by the pool or walking along the beach.”

The beauty of a classic black bikini is that it never chases trends. Instead, it celebrates natural curves with an adjustable fit, timeless color and clean silhouette that feels just as stylish in your 20s as it does decades later. If Bündchen’s latest beach look is any indication, this is one swimwear staple that’s worth keeping in your rotation.

Get the Suvimuga Halter Triangle Bikini Set for $26 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Suvimuga here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Related: Red Hot! Bethenny Frankel’s Bold Swimsuit Flatters Women Over 50

Bethenny Frankel just served up a poolside look that had Us rethinking everything we thought we knew about bold swimsuits. The former Real Housewives of New York star reached for a vibrant red one-piece that felt equal parts timeless, flattering and confidence-boosting, proving women over 50 don’t have to play it safe at the beach. […]

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We’re already excited for denim season, and clearly, Nordstrom is, too. The retailer is slashing prices on popular jeans during the big Anniversary Sale, and it’s helping Us stock up on our favorite brands at Black Friday-level lows. Seriously, we did a double take when looking at these prices.

Whether you’re searching for staple jeans for errands, brunches or travel, you’ll find your dream pair marked down below. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale will run from now through August 9, but given that denim is a piping-hot category, we doubt sizes will stay in stock. If you see yours, grab it and run!

13 Denim Deals During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

1. Take up to 34% Off Madewell

Our Pick: Ditch buttons and zippers for these comfy tie-waist jeans. Katie Holmes wears the label, so snag a top and tote while you’re at it.

Check out all Madewell deals included in the sale here!

2. Take up to 39% Off Wit & Wisdom

Our Pick: Everyone needs go-to black jeans and these sleek pants are yours. Not only do the pants have a subtle bootcut shape, but they also feature a cropped hem with raw fraying.

Check out all Wit & Wisdom deals included in the sale here!

3. Take up to 55% Off Free People

Our Pick: Boho and baggy, these retro rolled jeans add character to any outfit. The pale, faded wash stuns with light and dark tops alike.

Check out all Free People deals included in the sale here!

4. Take up to 35% Off Paige

Our Pick: White jeans are incredibly charming, especially these wide-leg wonders from Paige. They’re so chic, you can wear them past Labor Day.

Check out all Paige deals included in the sale here!

5. Take up to 44% Off Levi’s

Our Pick: Nail the California-cool aesthetic with these ’90s-inspired dad jeans that hold their shape, go with everything and flatter your bootie.

Check out all Levi’s deals included in the sale here!

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Related: Run! Nordstrom‘s Mid-Summer Sandals Deals Are Too Good to Pass Up

We still have a few months left of sandal season, however, if you’re like Us, you’re bored with your current lineup. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a (totally justified) excuse to restock, especially with when the most chic brands are on major sale. Spoiler: some are over 50% off. The only catch? Top picks are […]

6. Take up to 36% Off Reformation

Our Pick: Taylor Swift wears Reformation, so she might be eyeing this expensive-looking wide-leg pair, like Us. With such a rich blue hue, who wouldn’t?

Check out all Reformation deals included in the sale here!

7. Take up to 40% Off Avec Les Filles

Our Pick: Everything about these structured cotton jeans is chic, including the built-in denim belt, artsy back pockets and dramatic distressed details.

Check out all Avec Les Filles deals included in the sale here!

8. Take up to 34% Off Kut from the Kloth

Our Pick: Calling all fun-size friends! These timeless mid-rise jeans come in regular and petite sizes, so you can skip the tailor entirely.

Check out all Kut from the Kloth deals included in the sale here!

9. Take up to 37% Off BP.

Our Pick: If you’ve wanted to experiment with the low-rise trend, let this be your sign. Shoppers say these baggy pants remind them of the ’90s!

Check out all BP. deals included in the sale here!

10. Take up to 33% Off AG

Our Pick: Straight-leg jeans are a huge deal in Europe. To dress like a Parisian rich mom, all you need are these slim AG jeans — no flight involved.

Check out all AG deals included in the sale here!

11. Take up to 34% Off Nydj

Our Pick: Bootcut pants might sound bold, but these tailored-looking jeans lean gently into the silhouette. They pair especially well with heeled sandals and booties.

Check out all Nydj deals included in the sale here!

12. Take up to 25% Off PacSun

Our Pick: Look effortlessly stylish in these super wide-leg pants that don’t pill or fade. They don’t have much stretch, but the loose silhouette makes up for it. Bonus: We adore the cuffed hems.

Check out all PacSun deals included in the sale here!

13. Take up to 25% Off Cotton On

Our Pick: Curvy gals rave about these classic straight-leg jeans that hug in all the right places. A happy shopper said they “fit like a glove!”

Check out all Cotton On deals included in the sale here!

Related: I‘ve Covered Nordstrom for Years, But I‘m Shocked by These Dress Deals

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As a fashion writer, this isn’t the first time I’ve covered the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. However, it is the first time my jaw dropped to the floor when I saw these dresses from Reformation, Farm Rio, Treasure & Bond and more marked down to Black Friday-level lows. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going strong with […]

As important as first impressions are, when it comes to movies, it’s typically last impressions that matter most. An ending can make or break a film altogether. Whereas an unpredictable, satisfying, and emotionally compelling conclusion can cement a movie in the annals of film history, one that misses the mark can make even the greatest of films lose an awful lot of their power right before the finish line.

Throughout the 1990s, filmmakers like David Fincher and Frank Darabont seemed to crack the code on how to make a film ending that sticks in the audience’s memory forever. Whether it’s a sweet animated movie coming to a fittingly crowd-pleasing conclusion, a heart-rending drama injecting one last bit of hope into the audience, or a crime masterpiece giving its protagonist their due, the best movie endings of the ’90s are among the best in the history of cinema.

There are spoilers ahead!

10

‘The Lion King’ (1994)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

The 1990s were the peak of the Disney Renaissance, a period during which the House of Mouse produced several of their greatest animated films to date. It’s ironic that The Lion King, which they thought would be unsuccessful compared to that same year’s Pocahontas, ended up becoming their most widely acclaimed and beloved animated classic of all time.

From one of the best opening movie shots of the 20th century until one of the best endings in the history of animated cinema, The Lion King remains one of the most perfect family films ever created. Having taken his throne back from the treasonous Scar, Simba welcomes a cub with Nala to continue the Circle of Life. Visually gorgeous and paired with the wonderful music, this ending is probably the best in Disney’s catalog.

9

‘The Truman Show’ (1998)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Built on one of the most genius casting decisions in the history of Hollywood cinema, casting a Jim Carrey that at the time hadn’t yet proven his dramatic chops in the most complex role he has ever played, The Truman Show is one of the biggest soft sci-fi masterpieces of all time. Exquisitely meta, irresistibly funny, and philosophically layered, it’s one of the best existentialist films of its time.

Having learned that he lives as the subject of a simulated reality and that the real world lies “out there,” Truman decides to escape captivity. And as he leaves the television set that he’s been living inside his whole life, the audience gets bored and decides to switch the channel. The deeply emotional and wonderfully-performed moment of Truman leaving set is made all the more powerful by the film’s final message: We crave drama and spectacle, no matter where it comes from.

8

‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)

Image via Universal Pictures

Steven Spielberg is the father of blockbusters, but it just so happens that his magnum opus isn’t a crowd-pleasing popcorn film at all, but rather one of the most serious war dramas of the ’90s. Schindler’s List, winner of seven Academy Awards (including Best Picture), is far more than just a biopic about the life of complicated historical figure Oskar Schindler: It’s one of the most effective anti-war movies in Hollywood history.

Spielberg never shies away from the darkness, violence, and pure pain of his gut-wrenching depiction of the Holocaust—but he, one of cinema’s greatest humanists, makes sure that the story is never without hope. The movie ends in quite an unexpected way, with many of the survivors that Schindler rescued visiting his grave and placing stones on its marker. It’s the perfect way to cement this as one of the most powerful war movies of all time.

7

‘The Green Mile’ (1999)

If there’s one filmmaker who has made it his specialty to make some of the greatest Stephen King adaptations that the big screen has ever seen, it’s Frank Darabont. His second-ever adaptation of the horror writer’s work was a non-horror movie: The Green Mile, a harrowing fantasy prison drama based on one of the heaviest books of the 1990s.

The Green Mile is a tear-jerker from start to finish, largely thanks to Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan‘s powerhouse performances, but never is that truer than in its ending. The innocent John Coffey is executed, passing his wonderful powers on to Paul Edgecomb, which punish Paul for having let John die by allowing him to outlive everyone he loves. It’s an incredibly sad and bittersweet conclusion, made all-the-more powerful by Hanks and Duncan’s soul-stirring work.

6

‘Good Will Hunting’ (1997)

Image via Miramax Films

Directed by Gus Van Sant and penned by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck (who won an Academy Award for their screenplay), Good Will Hunting is one of the most universally beloved indie movies of all time. As deeply sad as it can be sometimes, it’s also a film full of hope for the future, making it one of the best crowd-pleasing drama movies ever made.

That hope leads to the movie’s bittersweet conclusion, where Will rejects the high-paying job offered by his professor to instead drive to California and reunite with his ex-girlfriend, Skylar. Robin Williams‘ Oscar-winning performance leaves us with an improvised line that’s among the best closing lines in film history: Having read the letter that Will left him explaining that he has to “go see about a girl,” Sean mutters to himself, “Son of a b***h… He stole my line.”

5

‘La Haine’ (1995)

Image via MKL Distribution

It’s not only Hollywood that produced the best movies and movie endings of the 1990s, and for proof, one needn’t look much further than Matthieu Kassovitz‘ French social thriller La Haine. It’s one of the highest-rated movies of the ’90s on Letterboxd for a reason: It’s one of the best international movie masterpieces of all time, a perfectly-written and perfectly-paced drama about police brutality, systemic racism, and the endless cycle of violence that has plagued humanity for centuries.

The conclusion of La Haine is one of those movie endings that completely recontextualize everything that has come before, making an instant re-watch incredibly tempting. A police officer accidentally kills Vinz, leading to a standoff between Hubert and another cop. A final gunshot is heard off-screen, cutting to black before we can see who got shot. That ambiguity is essential to the movie’s message: That the vicious cycle of violence is never clear-cut, and that its senselessness is precisely the point.

4

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

Image via Miramax Films

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Quentin Tarantino‘s Pulp Fiction is such a perfect sophomore feature effort that it earned its director a Palme d’Or at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival, immediately putting him on the map as one of the leading creative voices of his generation of filmmakers. As the years have passed, the reputation of this cult classic has only grown higher, and that’s for good reason.

Part of why Pulp Fiction is one of the best crime movies of all time is how brilliant its non-linear structure is, its many stories interweaving at several points that only become clear as the story progresses. A perfect example of that is how the movie’s final set piece actually turns out to be a continuation of the story’s very first scene. Jules and Vincent manage to cleverly stop a diner robbery, letting the petty thieves go and walking out together. From the structure to the pacing to the dialogue to the character arcs, it’s one of the most perfect endings in Tarantino’s whole filmography.

3

‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)

Image via Columbia Pictures

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As phenomenal as Pulp Fiction is, it’s The Shawshank Redemption that’s widely regarded as the greatest motion picture of 1994, seeing as it has been the highest-rated film in history on IMDb for many years now. It’s one of the most flawless and emotionally stirring prison dramas ever put on the big screen, and it’s no coincidence that it’s also a Frank Darabont film based on a Stephen King story.

Through and through, it’s one of the best drama movies based on books, which leads all the way to one of the most moving endings of ’90s cinema. After Andy’s successful escape from prison following 19 years on the inside for a crime he didn’t commit, he reunites with Red on a Mexican beach. If ever a deeply poignant film deserved to have a purely uplifting happy ending, it was this one.

2

‘Goodfellas’ (1990)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

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Martin Scorsese is regarded by many as the single greatest currently-working filmmaker, and that’s all thanks to genre-defining masterpieces of the caliber of Goodfellas, one of the most exciting movies based on great books. This biopic about Henry Hill‘s life and involvement with the mafia is arguably one of the most perfect examples of a rags-to-riches story ever committed to celluloid.

But like all the best rags-to-riches stories about vicious criminals, Goodfellas makes sure to see its protagonist’s life crumble under its own weight as it nears the credits. The film ends with Hill turning into an informant and entering the witness protection program, having to live the rest of his life “like a schnook.” It’s a classic mobster movie conclusion, executed in the most perfectly-written and perfectly-paced way that the genre has ever seen.

1

‘Se7en’ (1995)

Image via New Line Cinema

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Today, David Fincher is widely recognized as one of the greatest thriller filmmakers of his generation, but that wasn’t always the case. After the failure that was Alien³, the director had to prove that he was worthy of studios’ trust. Enter Se7en, which, having made over $300 million dollars at the box office worldwide, is probably the most horrifyingly fatalistic and nihilistic blockbuster ever to have made so much money.It’s also one of the best thriller movies since 1990, and that’s in no small measure thanks to one of the most nail-bitingly suspenseful third acts in the history of cinema. Serial killer John Doe delivers the severed head of Detective Mills’ pregnant wife, provoking Mills to murder him and thus completing his killing spree themed to the Seven Deadly Sins. Overwhelmingly bleak and depressing, awfully violent without actually needing to show all that much blood, and masterfully subversive of the typical Hollywood thriller formula, Se7en‘s conclusion is the most legendary and well-executed movie ending of the 1990s.

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Se7en

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Release Date

September 22, 1995

Runtime

127 minutes

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Writers

Andrew Kevin Walker

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