Ranking All David Fincher Films (Worst to Best)
There is something about David Fincher projects that always seems cool and classy. Word to the JAY-Z video he directed (we have no more love for JT over here).
I'm actually surprised I haven't gotten around to a David Fincher filmography ranking before now. But, here we are! It's time to get into how I feel about all of the films David Fincher has directed!
Film/Rank:
#10- The Game (1997)
Why Though:
I bet I just lost everybody. I can't help that I get irrationally mad at plots that end with everything was a ruse. When it was revealed that Sean Penn, the brother of Michael Douglas, had set up this fun game for him, I felt cheated and hurt. No one plays Hank Pym... or me like that!
Would I Rewatch:
The truth of the matter is that this is a movie I HAVE to rewatch. Maybe the fun comes from seeing all the different elements that lead up to the ending. Or maybe the movie shouldn't be viewed by 11 year olds still holding onto the glory of Space Jam. Either way, I'm definitely going to re watch this movie and give it a fair shot.
Film/Rank:
#9- Alien 3 (1992)
Why Though:
Full disclosure, I watched this movie for the purposes of this list. I had no interest in seeing it before I decided this list needed to happen. Having said all that, I land firmly in the indifferent category for this film. If I didn't know and love Alien and Aliens, this wouldn't be a movie worth any hate. But I understand how people could feel some way about the dramatic drop off in storytelling and suspense building on this third movie. The movie isn't without interesting concepts and moments, but, much like Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, I just wasn't drawn in.
Would I Rewatch:
Nah, I don't see that happening.
Film/Rank:
#8- Panic Room (2002)
Why Though:
Now we're getting into the good stuff! There is no one in the cast that I out and out love. I especially have an aversion to most Jared Leto performances. That's how you know David's ability to create a cool atmosphere and tension is really operating well here. There are some real dope shots and interesting ways that the camera moves. Plus it turns out I like home invasion movies. I didn't expect the story to turn out the way that it did which is good and it is another example of Kristen Stewart doing a great job. Seriously! Kristen's role could have easily been annoying but she actually helped her mother and I cared for her when it was time to. I haven't said anything negative yet so you're probably wondering how it's so low. I just happen to like all the other movies more than this movie.
Would I Rewatch:
Probably.
Film/Rank:
#7- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Why Though:
I used to love this movie! Funnily enough, the movie about how nothing lasts forever, hasn't be able to hold on to my love. I was just the right age to see this movie and get wrapped up in its message, imagery and epic sprawling story with a dope cast. However, when I reweatched it recently I felt it wasn't as well paced as I remembered, and felt that there was a lack of subtlety to the message. Doesn't matter though, it's still a departure from the often dour (in a good way?) film making of Mr. Fincher. I do like the overall positive vibe to this movie. Plus Taraji and Mahershala are in this movie so that's really cool!
Would I Rewatch:
Yeah I gotta see if I'm in the right state of mind to fall back in love with this movie.
Film/Rank:
#6- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Why Though:
A lot of people like the O.G. Swedish version of this movie way better. I'm not one of those people. I actually feel like this version works better as a separate piece of art. The original film actually feels like a companion piece to the book. I also appreciate the fact that Lisbeth is played more like a vengeful anti-super-hero in Fincher's version. Some people may think that takes away from the gravitas of the story, but they're not writing this list so... I will admit that it's weird that Daniel Craig keeps his accent when everyone else attempts a Swedish accent. Otherwise I really dig this movie.
Would I Rewatch:
I'll definitely watch this again soon.
Film/Rank:
#5- Gone Girl (2014)
Why Though:
I really enjoy the story for this film. But, there is no denying that David got some dope performances out of some actors people may doubt more than they should. Like Tyler Perry and the 4th best Batman. I love that even when it's revealed where the girl has gone in Gone Girl that just presents a new set of hurdles and tensions making the movie feel fresh and giving it a second wind. Plus as I mentioned while casting Batwoman, this is a great role for Rosamund Pike. I really had to give Rosamund props for her performance in this role. I'll watch her in anything after this.
Would I Rewatch:
YUP!!!
Film/Rank:
#4- Fight Club (1999)
Why Though:
This movie really is that good. I actually wrote my own book, based on Chuck Palahniuk's writing style (mostly in Choke... but you get the idea). You'd think a movie with a twist like Fight Club's (Brad Pitt is Edward Norton) would lose its appeal after the first watch, but there are so many things layered into this movie that it's always great to watch hints here and there foreshadow the ending. In addition to great performances from people I usually don't get excited about like Leto and Norton.
Would I Rewatch:
You better believe it!
Film/Rank:
#3- The Social Network (2010)
Why Though:
Aaron Sorkin dialogue with David Fincher direction seems like it's right up my alley! It did not dissappoint. Especially since the subject matter was very close to my heart! I've talked about how cool I think this movie is on LDF Podcast. But it deserves all the praise I can muster. They made a movie about Facebook completely engaging and introduced me to the man who should be Batman already! Armie Hammer is an American treasure and he truly kills it as the twins!
Would I Rewatch:
Rewatch Request Accepted...
Film/Rank:
#2- Se7en (1995)
Why Though:
It's not just the twist ending and rare, but not impossible, bad guy wins at the end and its somewhat satisfying ending. Personally, I love Se7en because the cast is filled with black people. Black people get to play roles that aren't stereo-typically black in this movie and I truly appreciated and continue to appreciate that kind of representation in this dark film that taught me the seven deadly sins in the most effective way possible. REMEMBER GLUTTONY?
Would I Rewatch:
It's almost an annual thing at this point.
Film/Rank:
#1- Zodiac (2007)
Why Though:
Before Robert Downey Jr. got nominated for playing in Black Face, but, more importantly, put his stamp on the role of Iron Man/Tony Stark, there was Zodiac. A movie that is more about Jake Gyllenhall but has a dope cast overall and a perfect mix of other worldly thriller and true crime biopic. It's an interesting monster of a movie that at 162 minutes (if you've got the director's cut) never outstays its welcome. I'd watch this as a 7 hour movie (I think... don't hold me to that). I don't know what else to tell you, this movie is just the right amount of spooky to not turn me off and has a fascinating mystery being worked on by engaging characters. It's a true winner!
Would I Rewatch:
Bring on that 7 hour cut! Seriously, yes I would/will/have rewatched this movie many times.
-YG