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- The Bourne Ultimatum
- Universal Pictures
The 120+ Best Spy Movies Of All Time
- 1Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Chris Cooper
Talk about an opening that hooks you right in! Waking up with no memory, a lost identity, and trying to survive assassins? That's one heck of a predicament. This groundbreaking espionage classic combines relentless action with a gripping mystery as our hero uncovers his past, piece by bloody piece. Boasting a killer plot and white-knuckle suspense, it's truly impossible not to be drawn into this exciting world of spies and intrigue.
More The Bourne Identity
- #131 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #49 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #204 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- 2Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Brian Cox
When it comes to spy thrillers, few can match the exhilarating pace and gritty realism of this edge-of-your-seat experience. As the protagonist battles against a ruthless conspiracy to clear his name, viewers are treated to pulse-pounding, expertly choreographed action sequences that leave them breathless. Add to the mix a captivating storyline and a top-notch performance by Matt Damon, and it's no wonder this film has become synonymous with the genre itself.
More The Bourne Supremacy- #224 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #23 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- #227 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- 3Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, Joan Allen
Arguably the perfect conclusion to a fantastic trilogy, this one wraps up all the loose ends and delivers an absolute adrenaline-pumping experience. With its riveting chase scenes, intense hand-to-hand combat, and a protagonist hell-bent on uncovering the truth, it's safe to say this spy thriller has set the bar high for Hollywood action movies. It's simply a must-watch for fans of the genre.
More The Bourne Ultimatum- #356 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #4 of 139 onThe Best Movies Of 2007
- #101 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- 4Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen
In a genre often dominated by suave spies, this film revealed a more vulnerable and human side to the legendary 007. Witnessing Bond's metamorphosis from a reckless rookie to the iconic agent we know and love is nothing short of exhilarating. Add in pulse-pounding action, high stakes poker, and a hauntingly beautiful love interest, and you've got yourself a surefire winner. By the end, audiences will have long since forgotten previous incarnations and be completely engrossed in this fresh and gritty take on a classic character.
More Casino Royale- #438 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #101 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #3 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- 5Gary Oldman, Kathy Burke, Benedict Cumberbatch
A slow-burning, atmospheric thriller that masterfully keeps viewers on the edge of their seat until the very end. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, it delves deep into the murky world of espionage and betrayal, offering a cerebral experience for spy aficionados. Boasting an all-star cast, the nail-biting tension and labyrinthine intrigue make this adaptation of a classic novel an absolute must-watch.
- #17 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
- #8 of 73 onThe Greatest Movies About CIA Agents & Operatives
- #14 of 14 on14 Movie Villains We Never Actually See
- 6Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem
This critically acclaimed masterpiece breathes new life into the James Bond franchise, as our favorite spy faces his toughest opponent yet - a man hell-bent on vengeance and destruction. With its dazzling visuals, emotional depth, and expertly crafted action sequences, it's easy to see why this film has been hailed as one of the best in the series. Not to mention, the poignant exploration of Bond's past adds another layer of depth to this already gripping tale.
More Skyfall- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Skyfall' Quotes, Ranked
- #4 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- #123 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 7Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason
A true Hitchcockian masterpiece, this suspenseful classic takes an ordinary man on a wild ride through deception, mistaken identity, and international espionage. With exhilarating chase scenes, iconic landmarks, and Cary Grant's superb performance, it's no wonder this film remains a beloved piece of cinema history. Plus, let's not forget that thrilling climax atop Mount Rushmore – talk about a nail-biter!
More North by Northwest- #97 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #610 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #128 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- 8Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway, Cliff Robertson
If paranoia-tinged thrillers float your boat, then this one's right up your alley. When a mild-mannered CIA analyst finds himself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy, he's forced to go on the run to stay alive. The film's tense atmosphere expertly plays with the audience's own paranoia, keeping them guessing until the final moments. It's a taut and engrossing experience that'll leave you questioning everything.
More Three Days of the Condor- #24 of 49 onThe 45+ Very Best Movies About Hackers
- #164 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #41 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- 9Robert Redford, Brad Pitt, Catherine McCormack
This thrilling ode to the world of espionage pulls back the curtain on the intricate web of lies and manipulation that defines the shadowy world of spies. The film boasts a compelling dynamic between its two charismatic leads and a fast-paced plot that unravels like a well-crafted puzzle. As the story takes us back and forth through time, the secrets and betrayals keep piling up, culminating in a satisfying and explosive finale.
More Spy Game- #99 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- #6 of 73 onThe Greatest Movies About CIA Agents & Operatives
- #8 of 53 onThe Best Movies About Agents and Operatives
- 10Sean Connery, Daniela Bianchi, Robert Shaw
This film expertly blends elements of romance, espionage, and thrilling action for a truly unforgettable experience. Amidst the backdrop of the Cold War, we follow our favorite British superspy as he goes toe-to-toe with a deadly Soviet agent. With its exotic locations, memorable villains, and jaw-dropping gadgets, this classic remains one of the most beloved entries in the long-running James Bond franchise.
More From Russia with Love- #44 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- #2 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- #129 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 11Edward Fox, Michaël Lonsdale, Tony Britton
What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? In this gripping cat and mouse game between an elite assassin and a determined detective, audiences are treated to a masterclass in suspense and tension. The film delves deep into the psychology of both individuals, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to this thrilling tale. With its incredible attention to detail and unrelenting intensity, it's no wonder this remains a favorite among cinephiles and spy enthusiasts alike.
More The Day of the Jackal- #175 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #242 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #238 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 12Sean Connery, Gert Fröbe, Honor Blackman
Without a doubt, one of the most iconic films in the James Bond franchise. Aided by an unforgettable villain and one of the catchiest theme songs in movie history, this thrilling adventure finds everyone's favorite English superspy up against one of his most dangerous foes. With high-tech gadgets, impossibly cool cars, and nonstop excitement, it's no wonder this gem continues to be a fan favorite.
More Goldfinger- #481 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #1 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- #82 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 13Richard Burton, Claire Bloom, Oskar Werner
Based on the iconic novel by John le Carré, this stark and moody thriller explores the morally ambiguous world of spying during the height of the Cold War. The gritty atmosphere, complex characters, and labyrinthine plot make this a must-watch for fans of cerebral espionage films. Its harrowing portrayal of the lengths spies must go to in order to protect their country is not only thought-provoking but also hauntingly authentic.
- 14Sean Connery, Ursula Andress, Joseph Wiseman
Marking the cinematic birth of James Bond, this stylish and exciting film set the stage for generations of superspy adventures to come. With exotic locales, dastardly villains, and suave sophistication, it's easy to see why this film remains a beloved classic among both fans and critics. Whether you're a die-hard 007 fan or new to the world of espionage, this thrilling escapade offers a captivating glimpse into the quintessential spy experience.
More Dr. No- #6 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #544 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #6 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- 15Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Jon Voight
If conspiracy theories and high-tech intrigue get your pulse racing, then this thrilling rollercoaster ride is for you. When an unwitting lawyer becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a rogue government agency, the race is on to prove his innocence and expose the truth. Filled with twists, turns, and high-octane action, this intense thriller is one wild ride you won't want to miss.
More Enemy of the State- #6 of 49 onThe 45+ Very Best Movies About Hackers
- #498 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #42 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- 16Harrison Ford, Willem Dafoe, Anne Archer
A gripping tale of deception, political intrigue, and explosive action, this film sees our hero Jack Ryan facing off against some of his most ruthless adversaries yet. The intricate plot keeps viewers guessing until the very end, while the intense and expertly crafted action sequences are nothing short of heart-stopping. With its spine-tingling suspense and all-star cast, this film remains a standout in the world of spy thrillers.
More Clear and Present Danger- #114 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #32 of 99 onThe Best 1990s Action Movies
- #15 of 85 onThe Best Movies Of 1994
- 17Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone
With heart-pounding car chases and adrenaline-fueled shootouts, this pulse-pounding thrill ride never lets up. As a team of skilled mercenaries sets out on a dangerous mission, they quickly find themselves embroiled in a deadly web of deception and betrayal. Boasting an all-star cast and expertly crafted action sequences, this high-stakes adventure is a must-watch for fans of intense, hard-hitting thrillers.
More Ronin- #27 of 98 onThe Best Movies Of 1998, Ranked
- #49 of 99 onThe Best 1990s Action Movies
- #58 of 82 onThe Most Rewatchable Action Movies
- 18Harrison Ford, Anne Archer, Patrick Bergin
A riveting adaptation of Tom Clancy's best-selling novel, this film finds our hero Jack Ryan once again caught in the crosshairs of danger and deceit. With a ruthless terrorist on his trail, Ryan must use all his skills and cunning to protect his family and bring his enemies to justice. The edge-of-your-seat suspense and thrilling action make this spy thriller an undeniable crowd-pleaser.
More Patriot Games- #113 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #33 of 99 onThe Best 1990s Action Movies
- #61 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
- 19Michael Caine, Nigel Green, Guy Doleman
An often-overlooked gem in the realm of espionage fiction, this tense and atmospheric thriller follows a resourceful anti-hero as he navigates a shadowy world of brainwashing and Cold War paranoia. Boasting a stylish visual aesthetic and an impeccable sense of mood and tension, this film offers a refreshingly grounded alternative to the glamorous world of James Bond.
More The Ipcress File- #113 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #128 of 424 onThe Greatest Movies in World Cinema History
- #5 of 49 onThe Best Movies About Agents and Operatives
- 20Richard Burton, Clint Eastwood, Mary Ure
This nail-biting World War II espionage thriller combines high-stakes action with a gripping plot that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. Infiltrating a seemingly impregnable fortress high in the Alps, our heroes must rely on their wits and courage to survive the deadly odds stacked against them. With its stellar cast and exhilarating storytelling, this film is a must-watch for fans of war movies and spy thrillers alike.
More Where Eagles Dare- #47 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #35 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #20 of 45 onThe Best Movies Starring Clint Eastwood
- 21Eric Bana, Daniel Craig, Geoffrey Rush
This powerful and thought-provoking film delves deep into the moral complexities and emotional fallout of international espionage. Following a covert team of assassins seeking vengeance for a horrific act of terrorism, this gripping tale unfolds with tension and subtlety, leaving viewers breathless until the very end. With its expert storytelling, superb performances, and haunting visual style, this film remains one of the most poignant explorations of the human cost of spying.
More Munich- Dig Deeper...The Best Goalies In The World Right Now
- And Deeper...The Top Must-See Attractions in Munich
- #159 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 22Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh
A chilling and downright sinister exploration of the darker side of espionage, this classic film delves deep into the twisted world of brainwashing and political manipulation. Boasting powerhouse performances from its stellar cast and a truly haunting atmosphere, this groundbreaking thriller remains every bit as relevant and impactful today as it did when it first shocked audiences over half a century ago.
More The Manchurian Candidate- #5 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #107 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #724 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 23Tom Cruise, Jon Voight, Henry Czerny
The film that launched one of the most successful spy franchises in history, this adrenaline-fueled romp takes viewers on a wild ride filled with twists, turns, and death-defying stunts. With Tom Cruise at the helm, it's a thrilling journey filled with cinematic spectacle and pulse-pounding excitement. Few other spy movies can match the sheer audacity and jaw-dropping action of this unforgettable thrill ride.
More Mission: Impossible- Dig Deeper...23 Things You Didn't Know About The 'Mission: Impossible' Films
- #30 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #87 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- 24Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Alan Alda
A masterful blend of Cold War espionage and courtroom drama, this gripping tale follows an unlikely hero as he brokers a daring prisoner exchange between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. With its captivating storytelling, excellent performances, and a poignant examination of the human cost of spying, this film remains a testament to Steven Spielberg's incredible ability to bring history to life.
More Bridge of Spies- #18 of 35 onEvery Steven Spielberg Movie, Ranked By Fans
- #77 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
- #42 of 73 onThe Greatest Movies About CIA Agents & Operatives
- 25Jon Voight, Maximilian Schell, Maria Schell
A riveting blend of espionage, thriller, and mystery, this film follows a determined journalist as he searches for a hidden cabal of former Nazis bent on world domination. The twisting, turning plot will keep viewers on the edge of their seat, while the atmospheric setting and sense of dread make for an unforgettable viewing experience. It's a perfect example of how a well-crafted spy thriller can be both exhilarating and thought-pro voking.
More The Odessa File- #9 of 19 onThe Best Movies About Arms Dealers
- #3 of 16 onUnderrated Movies Starring '70s Heartthrobs
- #34 of 51 onThe 50 Best Political Thrillers Of All Time, Ranked
- 26Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains
A masterful blend of romance, suspense, and espionage, this Hitchcock classic remains a touchstone of the spy genre. With its unforgettable performances and perfectly crafted tension, this film stands as an elegant and timeless testament to the power of love, loyalty, and deception.
- 27Sean Connery, Claudine Auger, Adolfo Celi
An unforgettable blend of high-stakes adventure, globe-trotting espionage, and a larger-than-life villain, this classic Bond film delivers all the thrills and spills that fans have come to expect from the franchise. With its nonstop action, iconic gadgets, and mesmerizing underwater sequences, this film remains a favorite among 007 enthusiasts and spy movie aficionados alike.
More Thunderball- #8 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- #205 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #96 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- 28Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Ving Rhames
A breathlessly exhilarating and undeniably satisfying entry in the blockbuster franchise, this film raises the bar for action movies and pushes its star to dizzying heights. Featuring jaw-dropping stunts and a relentless pace, it's no surprise that this adrenaline-fueled spectacle remains a standout in the realm of spy thrillers.
- 29Sean Connery, Alec Baldwin, Scott GlennIn The Hunt for Red October, CIA analyst Jack Ryan (Alec Baldwin) faces a high-stakes naval chase. A renegade Soviet submarine captain, Marko Ramius (Sean Connery), has taken the USSR's most advanced nuclear sub, The Red October, on an unauthorized mission towards U.S. waters. As tensions rise between superpowers, Ryan must decipher whether Ramius plans to unleash nuclear war or defect to the West. Based on Tom Clancy's best-selling novel, this Cold War thriller combines suspense and political intrigue, earning three Academy Award nominations. Exceptional performances by Baldwin and Connery add depth to this tale of strategy and survival at sea.More The Hunt for Red October
- #29 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #336 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #33 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 30Sean Connery, Jill St. John, Charles Gray
A rollicking and suitably glamorous entry in the Bond canon, this film finds our intrepid hero once again pitted against his arch-nemesis in a thrilling race to recover a cache of priceless gems. With its larger-than-life characters, dazzling locations, and pitch-perfect blend of action, intrigue, and romance, it's no wonder this movie remains a beloved part of the spy genre.
More Diamonds Are Forever- #19 of 26 onThe 25+ Best 'James Bond' Movies, Ranked
- #72 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #13 of 15 onThe Best Pre-Dalton James Bond Movies, Ranked
