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Best Movies Starting With The Letter D

Explore the best films to add to your watchlist, including "Dunkirk", "Deadpool", "Doctor Zhivago", and "The Dark Knight". Discover why these movies are worth your time.

Welcome to our curated list of the best movies, starting with the letter D! We’ve handpicked these films based on their popularity and quality, ensuring a fantastic viewing experience. From thrilling action to heartwarming dramas, dive into our selection and discover why each of these movies deserves a spot on your watchlist.

#30 Die Another Day

Image credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Pierce Brosnan’s last outing as James Bond in “Die Another Day” offers an exhilarating mix of high-tech gadgets, stunning locations, and a gripping plot. This 2002 film pits Bond against a North Korean villain with a deadly plan involving a space-based weapon. Halle Berry’s memorable performance as Jinx adds an extra layer of excitement. With its thrilling action sequences and quintessential Bond charm, it’s a must-watch for any fan of the spy genre.

#29 Dumb and Dumber

Image credit: New Line Cinema

If you’re looking for a comedy that delivers nonstop laughs, “Dumb and Dumber” is a classic choice. Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels star as two well-meaning but dimwitted friends on a cross-country road trip to return a briefcase full of money. Their hilarious misadventures and quotable one-liners have made this 1994 film a beloved favorite. Its blend of slapstick humor and endearing characters ensures it remains a comedy staple.

#28 The Devil Wears Prada

Image credit: 20th Century Fox

“The Devil Wears Prada” is an excellent pick for a stylish dive into high fashion. This 2006 film features Anne Hathaway as a young journalist navigating the demanding world of a top fashion magazine, led by Meryl Streep’s iconic portrayal of the formidable Miranda Priestly. The film’s sharp wit, glamorous setting, and stellar performances make it an insightful and entertaining look at the fashion industry.

#27 Doctor Dolittle

Image credit: 20th Century Fox

“Doctor Dolittle” brings a whimsical and heartwarming tale to life, making it a delightful family film. Eddie Murphy stars as the titular doctor who discovers he can talk to animals, leading to a series of hilarious and touching adventures. Released in 1998, this film’s imaginative plot and charming animal characters create a fun and memorable experience for viewers of all ages.

#26 Don’t Worry Darling

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

“Don’t Worry Darling” takes viewers on a suspenseful journey with its intriguing plot and stylish visuals. This psychological thriller, directed by Olivia Wilde, stars Florence Pugh and Harry Styles as a couple living in a seemingly perfect community with dark secrets. The film’s engaging narrative, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a captivating watch for fans of the genre.

#25 Due Date

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

“Due Date” delivers a mix of comedy and heart as it follows two unlikely companions on a cross-country road trip. Robert Downey Jr. and Zach Galifianakis star in this 2010 film, bringing their unique comedic styles to the forefront. Their journey is filled with mishaps and heartfelt moments, making “Due Date” a humorous and touching exploration of friendship and personal growth.

#24 Divergent

Image credit: Summit Entertainment

“Divergent” offers a thrilling dive into a dystopian future where society is divided into factions based on virtues. Shailene Woodley stars as Tris, a young woman who challenges the status quo and discovers her true identity. Released in 2014, this film’s action-packed storyline, strong character development, and exploration of themes like identity and rebellion make it a standout in the young adult genre.

#23 Death Proof

Image credit: Dimension Films

Quentin Tarantino’s “Death Proof” is a high-octane tribute to grindhouse cinema, blending thrilling car chases with sharp dialogue. Released in 2007, the film follows a psychopathic stuntman, played by Kurt Russell, who uses his “death-proof” car to terrorize women. With its unique narrative style, intense action scenes, and homage to exploitation films, “Death Proof” is a must-watch for Tarantino fans and action enthusiasts alike.

#22 Devotion

Image credit: Sony Pictures Releasing

“Devotion” tells a powerful and inspiring story of friendship and bravery during the Korean War. This 2022 film, based on a true story, stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell as pioneering naval aviators who form a deep bond while facing the challenges of war. The film’s emotional depth, historical significance, and stellar performances make it a compelling and moving watch.

#21 Dracula

Image credit: Universal Pictures

“Dracula” brings Bram Stoker’s iconic vampire to life in a gothic horror masterpiece. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this 1992 film stars Gary Oldman as the enigmatic Count Dracula, whose quest for love spans centuries. The film’s lush visuals, haunting atmosphere, and strong performances, particularly by Oldman, make it a visually stunning and chilling adaptation of the classic tale.

#20 Driving Miss Daisy

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

“Driving Miss Daisy” is a heartwarming film that explores the unlikely friendship between an elderly Jewish woman and her African American chauffeur. Starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, this 1989 classic beautifully portrays racial tolerance and companionship themes over several decades. The film’s touching performances and nuanced storytelling make it a timeless piece that resonates with audiences even today.

#19 Die Hard

Image credit: 20th Century Fox

As one of the quintessential action movies, “Die Hard” is a must-watch for thrill-seekers. Bruce Willis stars as John McClane, an off-duty cop who single-handedly takes on a group of terrorists in a Los Angeles skyscraper. Released in 1988, the film’s high-stakes action, clever dialogue, and unforgettable villain, played by Alan Rickman, have cemented it as a holiday favorite and a genre-defining classic.

#18 Donnie Darko

Image credit: Newmarket Films

For those who enjoy mind-bending films, “Donnie Darko” offers a compelling blend of science fiction and psychological thriller. Jake Gyllenhaal stars as the troubled teenager Donnie, who begins experiencing bizarre visions involving a mysterious figure in a rabbit costume. Released in 2001, this cult classic’s intricate plot, atmospheric setting, and thought-provoking themes make it an endlessly intriguing and rewatchable film.

#17 Don’t Look Up

Image credit: Netflix

“Don’t Look Up” delivers a satirical take on society’s response to impending disaster. Directed by Adam McKay, this 2021 film features a star-studded cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, as scientists trying to warn the world about a comet headed for Earth. The film’s sharp wit, timely social commentary, and compelling performances make it a darkly humorous yet sobering watch.

#16 Dawn of the Dead

Image credit: United Film Distribution Company

George A. Romero’s “Dawn of the Dead” is a landmark in the zombie horror genre. Released in 1978, this film follows a group of survivors seeking refuge in a shopping mall during a zombie apocalypse. Its blend of intense horror, social commentary on consumerism, and groundbreaking special effects have made it a cult classic that continues to influence horror cinema.

#15 Darkest Hour

Image credit: Focus Features

“Darkest Hour” presents a riveting portrayal of Winston Churchill during the early days of World War II. Gary Oldman delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Churchill, capturing his struggles and triumphs as he rallies the British people against Nazi Germany. Released in 2017, the film’s historical accuracy, compelling narrative, and standout performance by Oldman make it an inspiring and educational watch.

#14 Doctor Strange

Image credit: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” introduces viewers to a visually stunning and mystical side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as the titular character, a brilliant but arrogant surgeon who discovers the world of magic and alternate dimensions after a career-ending accident. Released in 2016, the film’s mind-bending visual effects, engaging storyline, and strong performances make it a standout superhero film.

#13 Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Image credit: 20th Century Fox

“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” offers a thrilling and emotional continuation of the rebooted franchise. Set ten years after a deadly virus outbreak, this 2014 film explores the fragile peace between humans and the intelligent ape society led by Caesar, played by Andy Serkis. The film’s impressive visual effects, deep character development, and intense action sequences make it a compelling and thought-provoking addition to the series.

#12 Despicable Me

Image credit: Universal Pictures

“Despicable Me” is a delightful animated film that introduces audiences to the lovable villain-turned-hero, Gru. Voiced by Steve Carell, Gru plans to steal the moon but finds his life-changing when he adopts three orphaned girls. Released in 2010, the film’s heartwarming story, humor, and adorable Minions make it a family favorite that appeals to kids and adults.

#11 Drive

Image credit: FilmDistrict

“Drive” is a stylish and moody thriller that follows a mysterious stuntman and getaway driver, played by Ryan Gosling. Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, this 2011 film combines sleek cinematography with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, creating an atmospheric and gripping experience. Its blend of intense action, emotional depth, and Gosling’s captivating performance make “Drive” a standout in modern cinema.

#10 Dunkirk

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

“Dunkirk” is a breathtaking war film that masterfully depicts the harrowing evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War II. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this 2017 film uses minimal dialogue and stunning cinematography to create an immersive and intense experience. The film’s non-linear storytelling and gripping score by Hans Zimmer make “Dunkirk” a cinematic masterpiece that captures this historic event’s sheer scale and emotion.

#9 Dallas Buyers Club

Image credit: Focus Features

“Dallas Buyers Club” tells the powerful true story of Ron Woodroof, played by Matthew McConaughey, who battles both the medical establishment and his diagnosis of AIDS in the 1980s. This 2013 film highlights Woodroof’s fight to access and distribute life-saving medications, bringing attention to health care issues and stigma. McConaughey’s transformative performance and Jared Leto’s Oscar-winning role make this film a poignant and inspiring watch.

#8 District 9

Image credit: TriStar Pictures

“District 9” offers a fresh and thought-provoking take on the sci-fi genre, set in a world where extraterrestrial refugees are confined to slums in Johannesburg. Directed by Neill Blomkamp, this 2009 film uses a documentary-style approach to explore xenophobia and social segregation themes. Its innovative storytelling, impressive visual effects, and compelling narrative make “District 9” a standout film that resonates on multiple levels.

#7 Doctor Zhivago

Image credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

“Doctor Zhivago” is an epic romantic drama that weaves a tale of love and loss set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution. Directed by David Lean and based on Boris Pasternak’s novel, this 1965 film stars Omar Sharif as the titular doctor-poet who navigates the tumultuous events of early 20th-century Russia. Its sweeping cinematography, lush musical score, and poignant storytelling make it a timeless classic.

#6 Deadpool

Image credit: 20th Century Fox

“Deadpool” brings a fresh and irreverent twist to the superhero genre with its sharp humor and self-aware style. Ryan Reynolds stars as the wisecracking anti-hero who gains superhuman abilities after an experimental treatment. Released in 2016, the film’s R-rated humor, fast-paced action, and Reynolds’ charismatic performance make it a wildly entertaining ride that breaks the conventional superhero mold.

#5 Dune

Image credit: Lionsgate

“Dune” transports viewers to the desert planet of Arrakis in an epic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s science fiction masterpiece. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this 2021 film features an all-star cast led by Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, who must navigate political intrigue and ancient prophecies. With its stunning visuals, immersive world-building, and compelling narrative, “Dune” is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

#4 Dirty Dancing

Image credit: Vestron Pictures

“Dirty Dancing” is a beloved classic that combines romance, music, and dance into an unforgettable story. Released in 1987, the film stars Jennifer Grey as Baby, a young woman who falls for her dance instructor, Johnny, played by Patrick Swayze, during a summer vacation. Its iconic dance scenes, memorable soundtrack, and heartwarming story have made “Dirty Dancing” a timeless favorite that continues to captivate audiences.

#3 Django Unchained

Image credit: The Weinstein Company

“Django Unchained” is a bold and gripping tale of revenge and redemption in the pre-Civil War South. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, this 2012 film stars Jamie Foxx as Django, a freed slave who teams up with a bounty hunter, played by Christoph Waltz, to rescue his wife from a ruthless plantation owner. The film’s powerful performances, sharp dialogue, and intense action scenes make it a compelling and thought-provoking watch.

#2 The Departed

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

“The Departed” is a masterful crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, featuring a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. This 2006 film follows the intense cat-and-mouse game between an undercover cop and a mole in the Boston police force. With its intricate plot, stellar performances, and gripping tension, “The Departed” stands out in the crime genre and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

#1 The Dark Knight

Image credit: Warner Bros.

“The Dark Knight” redefined the superhero genre with its dark, complex narrative and unforgettable performances. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this 2008 film stars Christian Bale as Batman, who faces his greatest adversary, the Joker, played by Heath Ledger in an Oscar-winning role. The film’s intense action sequences, psychological depth, and moral dilemmas make it a cinematic tour de force that transcends the typical superhero movie.

Continue with the best movie for each letter series, with movies beginning with E.

Ryan is Upbeat Geek’s editor and connoisseur of TV, movies, hip-hop, and comic books, crafting content that spans reviews, analyses, and engaging reads in these domains. With a background in digital marketing and UX design, Ryan’s passions extend to exploring new locales, enjoying music, and catching the latest films at the cinema. He’s dedicated to delivering insights and entertainment across the realms he writes about: TV, movies, and comic books.

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