Every Steven Spielberg Movie Ranked And In Order Of Release

Undeniably, Steven Spielberg's creative genius has left an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary cinema. With his career clocking over half a century, the man has cemented his place as a major force in modern cinema. Spielberg's collection of works is not just a simple list, but rather an impressive showcase that spans various genres and displays his distinct style of storytelling. In this article, I’m going to dive deep into Spielberg's portfolio, offering a detailed list that illustrates his growth as both a director and producer.

From the adrenaline-filled exploits in Indiana Jones, to the raw emotions stirred by Schindler's List, and right through to the gripping drama of Saving Private Ryan, Spielberg never fails to craft films that both entertain and deeply connect with viewers. So ranking his movies is not easy. In fact, it feels downright impossible. But Spielberg's talent for crafting imaginative stories that deeply move audiences is worthy of appreciation, so let’s run through his legendary career film by film.

Who is Steven Spielberg? Life and Career Synopsis

Steven Spielberg, a Cincinnati native born on December 18, 1946, spent his formative years bouncing between various suburban landscapes in New Jersey and Arizona. He attended California State University after graduating high school, but his drive to start a career in film led him to drop out. His career in film officially kicked off in the late 1960s when first gained recognition with his work on the short film Amblin’ (1968), which led to his signing with Universal Studios, making him one of the youngest directors to be signed for a long-term deal with a major Hollywood studio. And his first feature-length film, Duel, is heralded as a classic to this day.

By 2023, Spielberg's directing prowess had brought over 30 films to life—a clear testament to his unending relevance and productivity in the film industry, underscored by his latest semi-autobiographical masterpiece, The Fabelmans. From sci-fi flicks and fantasy epics to historical dramas, Spielberg's creative range in filmmaking is truly expansive. Blockbuster films like 80s classics Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and the Indiana Jones series not only set box office records but also became cultural phenomena. Spielberg's adeptness is evident in serious dramas as well, including acclaimed experiences like The Color Purple, Empire of the Sun and Lincoln.

Spielberg's professional journey is peppered with repeated partnerships with a trusted circle of actors, technical wizards, and producers. Working together with the likes of Tom Hanks and Harrison Ford, along with legendary collaborations with composer John Williams and producer Kathleen Kennedy, they've crafted films that are nothing short of cinematic masterpieces.

In What Order Were Steven Spielberg Movies Released?

Here is a chronological list of all feature films directed by Spielberg:

1. Duel (1971)
2. The Sugarland Express (1974)
3. Jaws (1975)
4. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
5. 1941 (1979)
6. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
7. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
8. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)
9. The Color Purple (1985)
10. Empire of the Sun (1987)
11. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
12. Always (1989)
13. Hook (1991)
14. Jurassic Park (1993)
15. Schindler's List (1993)
16. The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)
17. Amistad (1997)
18. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
19. A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)
20. Minority Report (2002)
21. Catch Me If You Can (2002)
22. The Terminal (2004)
23. War of the Worlds (2005)
24. Munich (2005)
25. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
26. The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
27. War Horse (2011)
28. Lincoln (2012)
29. Bridge of Spies (2015)
30. The BFG (2016)
31. The Post (2017)
32. Ready Player One (2018)
33. West Side Story (2021)
34. The Fabelmans (2022)

Steven Spielberg Movies Ranked

As somebody who loves Spielberg as a director, I’m very excited to rank his movies one by one. Be aware that I have some contrarian views about his work, so hopefully I can highlight some lost gems and make a case for his less-renowned outings. I’m of the opinion that Spielberg has never necessarily made a bad movie—on the contrary, some of his least-loved movies are fantastic—but I do believe the movies at the bottom of this list have flaws that his masterpieces do not. So bear with me as I rank every single Steven Spielberg movie.

34. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)

In a backdrop of the Cold War, Harrison Ford brings back to life our favorite adventurer in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Joined by Shia LaBeouf and Cate Blanchett, the story unfolds with Indy battling Soviet agents to uncover the mystical Crystal Skull. The movie, which took about two years to make, fuses the typical Indiana Jones adventure with more dashes of the paranormal than we’re used to—perhaps to an aggravating degree. Even with a few tepid critiques, the movie still draws you in, thanks to Ford's unending charm and the sweet echo of revisiting an iconic series we all hold dear.

33. The BFG (2016)

Borrowing from the pages of Roald Dahl's cherished book, The BFG spins a tale about an unusual friendship that blooms between Sophie (played by Ruby Barnhill), a young lass, and a kind-hearted giant (portrayed by Mark Rylance). At times, the movie highlights Spielberg's knack for weaving tales and his mastery in visual effects, but falls short in many respects more often than you’d like. The film plunges you into an enchanting universe, brimming with dreams and a journey full of thrill, but not quite with the same charm of something realized like Fantastic Mr. Fox. Still, The BFG is oftentimes a beautiful fusion of fanciful elements and profound depth, accentuated by Rylance's brilliant performance.

32. Ready Player One (2018)

Ready Player One is a vibrant journey into the virtual reality world of the OASIS ... that feels like it probably should have been directed by somebody else. It reeks of an old-school director trying to make a hip film for younger moviegoers. Still, there’s plenty of Spielberg magic here. The film boasts a star-studded cast including Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, and Ben Mendelsohn. In this bleak tomorrow, folks find solace in the digital sanctuary known as OASIS. Spielberg artfully combines 1980s pop culture with futuristic technology to create what is often a visually stunning world, but other times an overbearing mess.

31. The Adventures of Tintin (2011)

The Adventures of Tintin is a dynamic animated adventure, bringing Hergé's beloved comics to life. Taking roughly three years to complete, it features Jamie Bell as Tintin, with Andy Serkis and Daniel Craig. I remember seeing this movie in theaters, and it undeniably excelled in its stunning 3D motion capture visuals and fast-paced plot. However, its main criticism of this somewhat misfire of a movie lies in its lack of emotional depth compared to the source material, making it feel more like a visual spectacle than a heartfelt story—which is truly Spielberg’s forte. Nonetheless, its engaging action sequences and faithful homage to the classic comics make it a fun and adventurous watch.

30. The Terminal (2004)

In The Terminal, Tom Hanks brilliantly (as always) portrays Viktor Navorski, a character stuck in JFK Airport—an unexpectedly contained setting for a Spielberg film that allows the director’s knack for crafting engaging narratives and focusing on a few key characters truly shine. Alongside Hanks, Catherine Zeta-Jones stars in this unique Spielberg flick, wrapped up neatly in a year and a half. However, for a Spielberg flick, which is usually filled with mystery and wonder, the predictable plot and the bland setting are often a little too tedious and unexciting. But even the film’s biggest decriers can’t knock Hanks' heartfelt acting and Navorski's uplifting journey in The Terminal, which together make this a worthy watch.

29. The Sugarland Express (1974)

Steven Spielberg's theatrical debut, The Sugarland Express, is a gripping tale that seamlessly weaved drama and adventure in a manner that previewed the legendary director Spielberg would become. In this offbeat film, Goldie Hawn and William Atherton deliver a potent mix of emotional depth and thrilling escapades in their portrayal of a troubled pair that hastily fled the law to save their child before he is place in foster care. Hawn's stellar acting, paired with Spielberg's knack for fusing heartfelt drama with edge-of-your-seat suspense, truly sets this film apart as a standout piece of cinema.

28. 1941 (1979)

1941 is a unique entry in Spielberg's filmography, a comedy set around the hysteria in Los Angeles after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor. Featuring an ensemble cast including Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, the film took nearly two years to complete. While 1941 showcases Spielberg's ability to handle large-scale comedic sequences and special effects, it was criticized for its chaotic plot and lack of coherent narrative, making it less impactful compared to his other works. Despite this, the film's ambitious comedic endeavors and technical achievements make it an interesting watch, especially for those curious about Spielberg's early experiments in different genres.

27. A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)

A blend of science fiction and drama, A.I. Artificial Intelligence explores themes of humanity that, these days, feel very much ahead of their time. Spielberg took over this audacious endeavor that first dreamt up by Stanley Kubrick, and featured some big names like Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law and Frances O'Connor. For a hefty three years, they hustled to transition this film from an idea into reality. While praised for its innovative visual style and thought-provoking narrative, A.I. faced criticism for its tonal inconsistencies, with some feeling Spielberg's sentimental style clashed with Kubrick's darker vision. Still, the way Osment delivers his role and how the film dives into future-focused topics makes it a gripping watch with eye-catching visuals.

26. Hook (1991)

Hook offers a whimsical portrayal of J.M. Barrie's classic Peter Pan story, with Robin Williams as a grown-up Peter and Dustin Hoffman playing the villainous Captain Hook. The crafting of Hook, a process spanning two years, gave birth to stunningly imaginative sets and costumes. Robin Williams' moving performance in the film is still talked about today with high regard. But, while the film's extravagant special effects were eye-catching — especially for the 90s — some felt it lost touch with the simplicity and allure of the original story. Even with the critiques, many still hold a soft spot for Hook, praising it for its inventive spin on an age-old tale and its knack for encapsulating childhood wonder.

25. Lincoln (2012)

Lincoln is a powerful historical drama that focuses on the final months of President Abraham Lincoln's life, brilliantly portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis (who won his third Oscar for the performance). The film, which took approximately two and a half years to complete, delves into the political complexities of passing the Thirteenth Amendment. Spielberg's direction brings a palpable sense of authenticity and gravity to one of our nation’s greatest stories. The film is notable for its meticulous attention to historical detail, Day-Lewis's transformative performance, and its insightful exploration of political maneuvering. Lincoln stands out as a masterful portrayal of one of America’s most iconic figures and a significant period in history.

24. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

In the third adrenaline-fueled addition to the Indiana Jones franchise, The Last Crusade, we see Harrison Ford back in action as our favorite archaeologist, with Sean Connery shaking things up by playing his dad. For about two years, they crafted this chapter. It's a mix of action and laughs with a sprinkle of heartfelt moments as Indy and his old man chase the legendary Holy Grail. Spielberg masterfully keeps the thrill of high-octane action scenes in check, while giving equal attention to developing compelling character stories. Spielberg strikes the right balance between thrilling action and meaningful moments that speak about the importance of understanding and appreciating our history.

23. The Post (2017)

The Post depicts the Washington Post's high-stakes choice to publish the Pentagon Papers. Headlined by Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, the film—completed in just over a year—throws us into the thrilling face-off between free press and government control. Spielberg's deft touch ratchets up the suspense, all while driving home how vital freedom and honesty are in journalism. People love the movie for its relevance, top-notch acting, and how it quickly draws you into the story. Despite being a period piece, the movie still hits home and feels relevant, brilliantly showcasing a key point in our nation's past and shedding light on current debates about the freedom of press and democracy.

22. Bridge of Spies (2015)

Bridge of Spies thrusts us into the Cold War's clandestine operations, brimming with covert talks and hushed alliances. Over about two years, Spielberg crafted this tale around the real-life figure of James B. Donovan. Played with compelling gravitas by Tom Hanks, the multi-Oscar-winning actor captures the intense pressure of brokering a U.S.-Soviet prisoner exchange during the Cold War with remarkable depth. And let us not forget Mark Rylance, who won an Oscar for his compelling portrayal of Rudolf Abel, a Soviet intelligence officer. Spielberg skillfully builds tension while staying true to the facts, while the cast gives a thought-provoking performance that spotlights a little-known but pivotal moment.

21. War Horse (2011)

War Horse, set against the harrowing backdrop of World War I, is a testament to the unbreakable bond between a boy, Albert, and his horse, Joey. Spielberg spent approximately two years compiling this adaptation of the acclaimed novel and stage play into a cinematic experience. The movie takes us through a harrowing journey, laying bare the savagery of conflict yet holding onto the slender thread of hope. The film's narrative power, paired with its breathtaking visuals, truly captures the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity. Loyalty's bonds prove deep, even in war's turmoil.

20. Minority Report (2002)

Set in a world where crime is predicted and prevented, Minority Report immerses us in a futuristic narrative that makes us question the very nature of choice and fate. Spielberg took about three years to bring this sci-fi story to life, starring Tom Cruise as a PreCrime officer on the run. The movie broke new ground with its special effects and dug deep into the heavy topics of destiny versus choice, and what's right and wrong. Minority Report masterfully marries thrilling scenes with tough moral questions, making you rethink the role of tech in justice and whether we're in control of our fate.

19. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Spielberg brings a captivating cat-and-mouse game to the screen with Catch Me If You Can. Leonardo DiCaprio nails the role of smooth-talking Frank Abagnale Jr., while Tom Hanks brings gritty determination to FBI agent Carl Hanratty, in a film that took two years to craft. Capturing the essence of the '60s, this film masterfully mixes humor with tension, all rooted in real-life exploits. The movie truly excels in capturing an exhilarating pursuit and delves into the intricate dynamics between its main characters. The film's blend of whimsical adventures and heartfelt moments delivers a captivating experience that resonates with viewers.

18. The Color Purple (1985)

Spielberg's adaptation of Alice Walker's novel The Color Purple marked his first foray into serious drama. Over about a year and a half, he brought to life this poignant tale set in early 20th-century America. The film offers a profound look into the struggles and triumphs of African American women, with standout performances by Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and Oprah Winfrey. The movie unpacks the enduring spirit, the quest for freedom, and the deep bonds of sisterhood central to these characters' journeys. Although The Color Purple tackles tough themes, it's widely praised for its deeply emotional storytelling and the resilience shown by its characters, providing for a gripping experience.

17. Empire of the Sun (1987)

Empire of the Sun is a compelling war drama based on J.G. Ballard's semi-autobiographical novel. The film chronicles Christian Bale's remarkable performance as a young British lad navigating the perils of life in a World War II Japanese internment camp. Spielberg, who worked on the movie for about two years, poignantly depicts the erosion of childhood naiveté amid the havoc of war, as seen through a child's eyes. Critics celebrate the movie for its grand scope, stunning visuals, and Bale's compelling rendition of his character. Spielberg's film hits you right in the feels, with its jaw-dropping visuals and a story that tugs at your heartstrings.

16. Amistad (1997)

Spielberg delves into the chilling narrative of rebellion aboard the 1839 slave vessel in his powerful film, Amistad. He spent two years making a movie that shows the revolt and the complicated court cases that happened after. Djimon Hounsou stars at the helm as Cinqué, who leads a quest for justice alongside actors like Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins and Matthew McConaughey. From the director’s chair, Spielberg masterfully blends the raw emotion of a fight for freedom with the sharp complexities of courtroom battles. This film masterfully sheds light on a grim chapter of our nation's past, educating while captivating its audience on an integral part of the Black experience.

15. The Fabelmans (2022)

In the semi-autobiographical The Fabelmans, Gabriel LaBelle stars as Sammy Fabelman—who is, essentially, Steven Spielberg—a boy finding solace in movies as he comes of age amidst family turmoil. Enlisting the talents of Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, and Seth Rogen, Spielberg vividly reimagines his childhood reflections onto the silver screen. The director first declared he wanted to make an autobiographical film back in 1999, and the movie slowly came together over the next 23 years. The Fabelmans strikes a chord with anyone who's ever chased their dreams, despite the hurdles, offering up a story that fuels our collective drive and spirit. Spielberg's latest masterpiece beautifully captures the deeply personal experiences that shape an artist's path.

14. Munich (2005)

In Munich, Spielberg delves into the intricate and morally ambiguous world of international espionage and retaliation following the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre. It took a solid two years to bring Munich to the screen, featuring Eric Bana as the head of an Israeli squad tasked with covert retribution, with Daniel Craig in tow. The film digs deep into how seeking revenge can mess with your head and question your morals, both individually and on a broader political stage. Spielberg strikes a delicate balance, deftly weaving heart-pounding action with quiet moments of reflection, crafting a film that grips and moves you. The film delves into the murky waters of retribution and ongoing conflict, leaving viewers to grapple with their own interpretations of right and wrong.

13. The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)

In the sequel to Jurassic Park, Spielberg revisits the thrilling world of dinosaurs, creating a sequel that expands on the original's iconic premise. In The Lost World, Jeff Goldblum, joined by Julianne Moore and Vince Vaughn, returns as Dr. Ian Malcolm, guiding us through the untamed wilderness of Isla Sorna, a second island where dinosaurs reign supreme. It took a solid two years to bring the sequel to life. While echoing the series' signature tension and awe-inspiring dinosaurs, this film decidedly makes a pivot from the predecessor in to explore deeper issues like animal welfare and the pitfalls of corporate ambition. The movie expertly weaves together thrills and a hint of eco-consciousness, giving us a gripping sequel that's darker than its predecessors.

12. Schindler's List (1993)

Spielberg's Schindler's List powerfully depicts the horrors of the Holocaust. Liam Neeson's portrayal of Oskar Schindler, the man whose courage led to over a thousand Jewish people being saved during World War II, anchors this project that took three years to craft for the screen. Filmed in striking monochrome, and featuring grand performances from the likes of Ben Kingsley and Ralph Fiennes, the movie stands as a potent tribute to both the unthinkable tragedies of the Holocaust and our profound potential for bravery and empathy. Spielberg's skilled direction strikes a delicate balance, crafting an experience that is both moving and truthful.

11. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Saving Private Ryan, directed by Spielberg over the course of two and a half years, redefined the war film genre with its graphic and realistic portrayal of World War II. Tom Hanks and Matt Damon, alongside a talented supporting cast, bring to life the intense journey of rescuing a single soldier stranded in hostile territory. Spielberg's masterful direction pulls us right into the heart of battle, with the D-Day scene's raw intensity giving us a stark glimpse into war's true horror. Saving Private Ryan depicts the visceral horrors of war while also exploring the emotional bonds between soldiers.

10. War of the Worlds (2005)

In Spielberg's War of the Worlds, we're thrown into a tense, edge-of-your-seat depiction of an alien onslaught that leaves Tom Cruise battling to safeguard his family against all odds. The film's production spanned two years with Cruise playing a father trying to shield his children when catastrophe strikes. Spielberg skillfully builds tension through visual effects that convey the terror of an alien invasion as he dives into how we cling to each other when faced with catastrophe, capturing our raw need to shield those we cherish. The movie grips you with its high-stakes story and stunning effects while tugging at your heartstrings.

9. West Side Story (2021)

Spielberg's leap into musicals with West Side Story revitalized the iconic tale for a modern crowd, infusing it with fresh energy. The director’s rework of the famous stage story, taking two years to craft, breathes fresh vigor into the legendary tale of lovers entwined by fate against a 1950s New York backdrop. Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort shine as the leads, with their performances anchored by a spirited supporting cast that truly captures the essence of '50s New York. Spielberg breathes new life into the tale, tackling the cultural rifts with a subtlety that offer a both enlightening and refreshing look at American problems. This movie dazzles the senses with its dynamic dance numbers and powerful singing, pulling in both newcomers and long-time admirers.

8. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

Raiders of the Lost Ark is the film that introduced the world to the iconic character Indiana Jones, played by Harrison Ford. This adventure, which was developed over about two years, is legendary for how it set a new standard for the action-adventure genre, as Spielberg's collaboration with George Lucas brought to life an exhilarating tale of archaeology, ancient artifacts, and high-stakes adventure. The film is renowned for its fast-paced narrative, memorable action sequences, and charismatic performance by Ford full of endlessly quotable one-liners. Raiders of the Lost Ark not only entertained audiences but also influenced generations of filmmakers, cementing itself as a classic in cinematic history.

7. Always (1989)

Always, which in my opinion is his most underrated work, marks Spielberg's foray into romantic fantasy, a departure from his usual fare. Spanning a production period of nearly two years, Always features the talents of Richard Dreyfuss, Holly Hunter, and John Goodman as they navigate through an emotional tale woven with themes of affection and grief. Set against the backdrop of aerial firefighting, Always—a remake of the 1943 film A Guy Named Joe—follows a fallen pilot as he transcends death to watch over his beloved, guiding her from the beyond. While not as well-known as Spielberg's other works, Always is cherished for its tender portrayal of love, its heartwarming narrative, and the strong performances of its seasoned actors.

6. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

Spielberg's Close Encounters of the Third Kind evokes a sense of awe and mystery around the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Spanning two years, the film casts Richard Dreyfuss as an average Joe whose life takes a turn after a close encounter leaves him fixated on alien existence. The movie earns its stripes through cutting-edge visuals, a story that grips you, and the unforgettable music of John Williams. Spielberg masterfully stirs a sense of wonder about the cosmos, anchoring an out-of-this-world tale with raw human feelings that leave you breathlessly captivated up until the film’s legendary final moments.

5. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

With E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, Spielberg captured the hearts of audiences worldwide through a young boy named Elliot (played by Henry Thomas) who bonds with the stranded extraterrestrial in the heartwarming tale. The young boy's friendship with E.T. feels strikingly real, reeking of childhood innocence and the sorrow of saying goodbye. To this day, the film remains incredible for how Spielberg captured the essence of youth, forging a tale that delves into the marvels of childhood bonds and the heartache felt when parting ways. Spielberg's E.T., which also stars Drew Barrymore and Robert MacNaughton, resonates across generations as a nostalgic, emotionally connecting cinematic gem.

4. Jurassic Park (1993)

In Jurassic Park, Spielberg's innovative visuals made dinosaurs roam the screen with a realism that transformed our relationship with special effects in film. It took a solid three years to craft this kind of on-screen magic, with Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum breathing life into characters first imagined in Michael Crichton's captivating novel. Jurassic Park beautifully weaves together heart-pounding scenes with questions about scientific responsibility in this unforgettable cinematic experience.The movie didn't just thrill audiences, but sparked important discussions on the role of science and technology in society, cementing its status as a cinematic landmark.

3. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, the thrilling prequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark (and perhaps the most important film of my childhood, hence its high placement on this list), plunges the charismatic archaeologist into a darker and more perilous adventure. Developed over a two-year period, this oft-decried film finds Harrison Ford jumping back into the iconic fedora as Indiana Jones, while Kate Capshaw and Ke Huy Quan bring fresh energy to the screen over two years of development. Set in India, Indy faces sinister cults and supernatural dangers that go far beyond Raiders of the Lost Ark in the most wonderfully cartoonish of ways. While many find the film’s wacky tone off-putting, I personally find it to be the most fun you can have while watching Spielberg. The Temple of Doom injects a unique and thrilling intensity into the Indiana Jones saga with its notably dark atmosphere and ever-watchable action scenes.

2. Duel (1971)

Spielberg's first film, Duel (which, believe it or not, was made for television), was an action-packed, truck chase thriller that showcased the director’s talent for building suspense. Completed in just about 13 days, this tightly-paced film stars Dennis Weaver as a motorist pursued by a relentless, unseen truck driver across a desolate American landscape. With a minimalist approach, Spielberg cranks up the tension, transforming an everyday drive into a harrowing battle to stay alive. It’s unbelievable how confident and assured Spielberg’s direction was back in 1971, as he nails the suspense, crafts clever shots, and delves into the character's minds in a way that solidified his rep as an ace director right out of the gate.

1. Jaws (1975)

With Jaws, Spielberg crafted a cinematic masterpiece that redefined the summer blockbuster. Crafted over a span of three years, the nail-biting tale Jaws features Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss in a gripping dance with a predatory great white shark. Spielberg's masterful tension-building and John Williams' unforgettable music made watching Jaws a gripping experience you couldn't shake off. The film's innovative use of POV shots and a mechanical shark (albeit fraught with technical challenges) contributed to its visceral impact. Jaws not only terrified audiences but also set new standards in filmmaking, making it an enduring classic and, without a doubt, Spielberg's most iconic film.