Believe it or not, some of the greatest films of all time were also some of the greatest directorial debuts to date. It's not too often a director's first go at overseeing an entire production ends up on a list of the best movies, but it does happen. Considering this, we've probably all seen an awesome movie and thought, "What a great job by the director" without even realizing it was the director's first movie. Regardless of what thoughts you might have had, below you'll find a list of who are now famous directors' first movies. Just consider that next time you watch one of these top flicks of the past.
From hilarious comedies to full-on thrillers, these debut films from top directors would be impressive even if they weren't the directors first. Just take a look at some of the great movies on the list. Does the classic Reservoir Dogs ring a bell? Yep, that was Quentin Tarantino's directorial debut. How about the 2018 hit Get Out? Sure enough, Jordan Peele of Key & Peele nailed it on his first crack at directing. And that's only the start of a long list of incredible debuts.
While you may find many of them surprising, check out the list of directorial debuts below and vote up the films you find most impressive.
- 1
For Fans Of: Drama, Mystery, Classic Films
Why Should I Watch Citizen Kane: Orson Welles' first feature film still stands as one of the most innovative and influential movies in cinema history. Its groundbreaking storytelling techniques and compelling exploration of power, ego, and the American dream make it an essential viewing experience for any aspiring filmmaker or serious cinephile.- Actors: Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten, Ruth Warrick, Everett Sloane, Agnes Moorehead
- Released: 1941
- 2
For Fans Of: Drama, Crime, Mystery
Why Should I Watch The Shawshank Redemption: Frank Darabont's directorial debut beautifully adapted Stephen King's novella, creating a timeless classic that delves into themes of friendship, hope, and redemption within the walls of a brutal prison setting. Boasting outstanding performances from Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, this film is undeniably a must-watch for those who appreciate deeply human stories set against dark backdrops.- Actors: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler, Clancy Brown
- Released: 1994
- 1Rita Hayworth In 'Gilda'53 Votes
- 2Marilyn Monroe In 'The Seven Year Itch'42 Votes
- 3Raquel Welch In 'One Million Years B.C.'62 Votes
- 3
For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Why Should I Watch Reservoir Dogs: Quentin Tarantino's explosive debut showcased his signature style of witty dialogue, non-linear storytelling, and graphic violence with a captivating heist-gone-wrong tale that introduced audiences to the now iconic filmmaker. A brilliant ensemble cast led by Harvey Keitel brings Tarantino's razor-sharp screenplay to life in a way that laid out a blueprint for countless imitators but remains unmatched in sheer audacity.- Actors: Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn, Steve Buscemi
- Released: 1992
- 1Emily Blunt - Ms. Orange (Mr. Orange)299 Votes
- 2Sigourney Weaver - Jill Cabot (Joe Cabot)292 Votes
- 3Linda Hamilton - Ms. White (Mr. White)278 Votes
- 4
For Fans Of: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Why Should I Watch The Terminator: James Cameron burst onto the scene with this groundbreaking sci-fi thriller featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger as an unstoppable cyborg assassin sent back in time to kill the mother of humanity's future savior. With its inventive concept, relentless pacing, and dazzling special effects that defy its shoestring budget constraints, this seminal 1980s classic remains an enduring piece of popular culture perfect for action enthusiasts and science-fiction aficionados alike.- Actors: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn, Paul Winfield, Lance Henriksen
- Released: 1984
- 5
For Fans Of: Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Why Should I Watch Toy Story: Pixar's groundbreaking debut under director John Lasseter changed the animation landscape forever with its fully computer-generated visuals and engaging story about the secret lives of toys. Combining heartwarming nostalgia with universally appealing themes of friendship and identity, this innovative classic remains as beloved now as it was upon release over two decades ago.- Actors: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn
- Released: 1995
- 1Sheriff Woody890 Votes
- 2Buzz Lightyear842 Votes
- 3Slinky Dog721 Votes
- 6
For Fans Of: Horror, Sci-Fi, Classic Films
Why Should I Watch Night of the Living Dead: George A. Romero redefined horror cinema with his shocking portrayal of flesh-eating zombies terrorizing a group of survivors. This low-budget masterpiece not only revolutionized the genre but also offered cutting social commentary beneath its surface-level scares, making it a must-watch for horror fans and film historians alike.- Actors: Duane Jones, Judith O'Dea, Karl Hardman, Keith Wayne, Judith Ridley
- Released: 1968
