1

Singin’ in the Rain

Image: Metro Goldwyn Mayer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

According to the American Film Institute, Singin' in the Rain is the greatest movie musical of all time . Its centerpiece is the film's title song, written by Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown and performed by the brilliant Gene Kelly.

The scene in which this melancholic melody is played has become a staple of American culture. "Singin' in the Rain" was later featured in dozens of films and remains a source of joy for many today.

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Moon River

Image: Trailer screenshot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The theme song for Breakfast at Tiffany's was composed specifically by Johnny Mercer and Henry Mancini to be performed in Audrey Hepburn’s dreamy voice . The balcony scene in which Fred discovers Holly Golightly playing the song on the guitar is one of the most iconic moments in Blake Edwards' film—and to think it was almost removed from the final cut!

"Moon River" is such a timeless tune that it even won an Academy Award for Best Original Song and has been recorded by many other artists since its release in 1961.

3

Let The River Run

Image: David Jones

Remember those aerial shots of New York paired with the gorgeous music of "Let The River Run" in the title sequence of Working Girl ? Just epic!

The main theme of the 1988 film, directed by Mike Nichols, is one of the greatest of all time. Thanks to this song, Carly Simon became the first person in history to win an Oscar , a Golden Globe , and a Grammy for a track composed, written, and performed entirely by a single artist.

4

I Will Always Love You

Image: Hunters Race

Dolly Parton wrote "I Will Always Love You" in 1973. While it was a commercial success for the country legend at the time, it is Whitney Houston’s version of the song for The Bodyguard that everybody remembers.

Houston's 1992 pop ballad stayed at number one on the Billboard chart for 14 weeks and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also became the actress’s signature song.

5

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Image: Stainless Images

According to the American Film Institute, the greatest song in the history of cinema is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from _The Wizard of Oz_—and no wonder! The 1939 song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and was later inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance.

The ballad was written by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg with Judy Garland in mind . At just 16 years old, Garland delivered a masterful performance as Dorothy, and the scene remains one of the most iconic in film history.

6

What a Feeling!

Image: Juli Kosolapova

Written by Giorgio Moroder, Keith Forsey, and Irene Cara for the 1983 film Flashdance , "What a Feeling!" is one of the most defining songs of the decade. It’s fair to say the film includes other great tracks, like Michael Sembello's "Maniac" and Laura Branigan's "Imagination."

Yet, the main theme, played during the iconic audition scene, became a worldwide bestseller. It spent six weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and won both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song.

7

Stayin' Alive

Image: NEOSiAM 2024+

The Bee Gees contributed several songs to the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, but without a doubt, the most famous is "Stayin' Alive." This 1977 hit tune, along with John Travolta's iconic dance moves, defined the disco era .

"Stayin' Alive" became one of the British group's most popular songs, earning widespread recognition , including a Grammy Award and a spot on several "greatest songs of all time" rankings.

8

GoldenEye

Image: Quang Viet Nguyen

As its name suggests, this song, performed by the great Tina Turner , was written for the 1995 James Bond film GoldenEye . It was composed by Irish musicians Bono and The Edge from U2 with Turner in mind.

Depeche Mode were originally asked to compose the film’s main theme but were too busy at the time. "GoldenEye" reached number two on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 when it was released as a single and, along with "Live and Let Die" by Paul McCartney and "You Only Live Twice" by Nancy Sinatra, is considered one of the best 007 theme songs !

9

It Must Have Been Love

Image: Malin Kettil, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The soundtrack of Pretty Woman , one of the best romantic comedies of all time, features several great songs—including Roy Orbison's "Oh, Pretty Woman."

However, this time, we’d like to highlight "It Must Have Been Love," a bittersweet tune by Roxette . Originally released in 1987, the song was reintroduced when Touchstone Pictures wanted to feature a track by the Swedish pop duo in the 1990 film. Thanks to this re-release, it became a smash hit in the U.S. and around the world.

10

Eye of the Tiger

Image: Dolo Iglesias

Originally, Sylvester Stallone wanted to use Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust" as the theme song for Rocky III . When permission was denied, he turned to the American rock band Survivor to write an original song.

Since then, "Eye of the Tiger" has achieved massive success and will forever be associated with Rocky Balboa . It remains one of the most frequently used songs at sporting events and is undoubtedly one of the greatest movie songs of all time.

11

My Heart Will Go On

Image: Courtesy of NOAA/Institute for Exploration/University of Rhode Island (NOAA/IFE/URI)., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Performed by Celine Dion, "My Heart Will Go On" is one of the most listened-to and best-selling songs of all time. Originally composed by James Horner as a motif for the Titanic soundtrack , it was later developed into the film’s official theme song.

This catchy tune, which won multiple Grammy Awards, is the perfect complement to Jack and Rose's tragic love story.

12

As Time Goes By

Image: Geert Pieters

Of course, we couldn't leave out of this list one of the most emblematic songs in film history: "As Time Goes By" from Casablanca . Play it again, Sam, and let us relive Ilsa Lund and Rick Blaine's unforgettable love story.

Originally composed by Herman Hupfeld for the 1931 Broadway musical Everybody's Welcome , the song achieved international fame thanks to one of Casablanca 's most memorable scenes. It became the foundation of the film’s soundtrack and was ranked No. 2 on AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs list.

1

Bohemians

Image: Kinga Howard

Bohemianism, an original subculture that ended up lending its name as an adjective often used to describe other subcultures, is a social and cultural movement that embraces a way of life away from society's conventional norms and expectations . The term comes from the French bohème , and it was used to describe mid-19th-century non-traditional lifestyles, especially those of artists, writers, journalists, musicians, and actors.

Today, the term is used to describe anyone who shows disdain for money, dresses in hippie fashion (more on this later), and appreciates everything art-related.

2

Greasers

Image: Alberto Bigoni

Think John Travolta in _Grease_—yes, Grease . Think Biff Tannen in the 1950s segment of Back to the Future . Greasers emerged in the 1950s and early 1960s from predominantly working-class and lower-class teenagers and young adults in the United States and Canada.

An interest in cars, motorcycles, leather jackets, jeans, and rock music was the common theme among greasers. According to some sources, the subculture’s name was applied to its members partly because of their characteristic greased-back hair.

3

Beatniks

Image: Clem Onojeghuo

The first subculture on this list to adopt the adjective "bohemian," beatniks were a mid-20th-century social movement that embraced an anti-materialistic lifestyle, rejecting consumerism and expressing themselves through art, spirituality, drugs, and sexuality.

The term "beat" was first used by Jack Kerouac in 1948 to describe his group of friends and fellow writers, including Allen Ginsberg, William S. Burroughs, and Neal Cassady. Kerouac said that "beat" had multiple meanings, such as "beaten down," "beatific," "beat up," and "beat out." Beatniks are often stereotyped as wearing black clothing, and speaking in hip slang that incorporates words like "cool," "dig," "groovy," and "square."

4

Hippies

Image: Trevar Skillicorn-Chilver

One of the most famous countercultures of all time, hippies are deeply associated with the 1960s. The term "hippie" originally came from "hipster" (more on this later) and was used to describe the aforementioned Beatniks, who were "hip" to all things sophisticated and fashionable. In fact, early hippies adopted much of the language and values of the Beat Generation.

The festivals of Human Be-In (1967), Monterey (1967), and Woodstock (1969) popularized hippie culture, with its fashion and values influencing culture, popular music, television, film, literature, and the arts. Since the 1960s, mainstream society has assimilated many aspects of Hippie culture.

5

Mods

Image: Michael Schofield

The Mods were a group of stylish, London-based young men and women in the late 1950s, named for their preference for modern jazz. This subculture was known for its distinctive fashion, including tailor-made suits, as well as its love for music and scooters.

By the mid-1960s, their musical tastes had shifted toward rock and blues, with bands like The Who and Small Faces gaining popularity among Mods. Mod fashion was a defining element of the "Swinging London" era, and during this time, the subculture spread to other countries, becoming emblematic of the larger youth culture of the period.

6

Punks

Image: Viktor Forgacs

Another popular subculture, thanks in no small part to its striking visual component, is the punk movement, which encompasses music, fashion, ideologies, dance, film, and visual arts, among other forms of expression. Its strong anti-establishment views, stances on individual freedom, and DIY ethic make punks easy to identify.

Punk fashion includes T-shirts, leather jackets, boots, distinctive hairstyles such as brightly colored hair and spiked mohawks, as well as cosmetics, tattoos, jewelry, and even body modification.

7

Yuppies

Image: Nick Fewings

Anyone who has seen the movies Wall Street (the one with Charlie Sheen and Michael Douglas) or American Psycho knows what a yuppie is. The term stands for "young urban professional" and was coined in the early 1980s as a way to describe young professionals living in a city.

Those labeled as yuppies generally dislike the association, because this characterization often suggests a very materialistic approach to life in general and a cutthroat attitude towards the workplace environment.

8

Skaters

Image: Parker Gibbons

An offshoot of the punk subculture, skater culture rose to prominence in the 1980s when a massive drought in California left numerous empty pools, which skaters used to practice their sport. The rise of magazines like Thrasher and stars like Tony Hawk helped the movement transition from an underground scene to a mainstream sport.

Its aesthetics centered around the preferred type of clothes for skateboarding: baggy and sturdy pants, sneakers, and oversized shirts. Its music was shared by the punk and hardcore movements.

9

Straight Edge

Image: Evgeniy Smersh

Going deeper down the rabbit hole, we encounter the Straight Edge subculture, an offshoot of both skater and hardcore punk cultures. Its followers reject the excesses of the punk scene by abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs . Many also refrain from casual sex, follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, and avoid caffeine or prescription drugs. The name "Straight Edge" was inspired by the 1981 song "Straight Edge" by the hardcore punk band Minor Threat.

Overall, Straight Edge culture promotes a lifestyle of self-discipline, health, and community, and it continues to evolve while maintaining its roots in the hardcore punk scene.

10

Hipsters

Image: John Fornander

The final entry on the list is dedicated to the most modern subculture in it: the hipsters. Mostly associated with perceived upper-middle-class white young adults who gentrify urban areas , hipster culture has been critiqued for lacking authenticity and focusing on consumption.

As mentioned earlier, members of this subculture typically do not self-identify as hipsters, as the term’s connotations are often unflattering. It is no coincidence that the term evokes the previously mentioned Beatniks, as that subculture can be seen as an early precursor to hipster culture.

1

#15 - Die Hard (1988)

Image: Jodie Walton

Is it a Christmas movie? That’s a long-held debate surrounding the famous action thriller. But the truth remains: rewatches of Die Hard spike around the holiday season, making it the 15th most-watched movie annually.

After all, John McClane’s heroics to defend Nakatomi Plaza from Hans Gruber do take place during a holiday party . Even the sequel is set, once again, on Christmas Eve.

2

# 14 - When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Image: JESHOOTS.COM

A beloved rom-com featuring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan: some argue it’s not strictly a holiday film, but hey, it does have a pivotal New Year’s Eve scene . That’s enough to make it a cozy, rewatchable option for the season.

When asked about his favorite quote from the movie, Crystal said, "When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."

3

# 13 - Scrooged (1988)

Image: LILLIT

Of course, Bill Murray's modern-day take on A Christmas Carol made the list. This '80s satire brings laughs to the timeless story of redemption.

In this version, a TV executive transforms from selfish to sincere after encountering a particularly violent Ghost of Christmas Present. A memorable moment from the movie is Frank’s heartfelt broadcast, "It’s Christmas Eve. It’s the one night when we all act a little nicer ."

4

# 12 - White Christmas (1954)

Image: David Beale

White Christmas is a musical that blends romance, humor, and, of course, iconic songs like the titular tune and "Sisters."

Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye star as two showbiz buddies who team up with singing sisters—played by Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen—to save a struggling Vermont inn. Audiences keep returning to this classic for its Technicolor charm and a touch of holiday nostalgia.

5

# 11 - The Holiday (2006)

Image: Annie Spratt

The holidays, as told from a small English village and L.A. simultaneously. This 2006 movie, in which Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swap homes across continents , quickly became a beloved classic.

With its cozy English countryside setting, dreamy L.A. vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer, The Holiday is a festive favorite for anyone who believes in personal growth and serendipitous love stories.

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# 10 - Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Image: Alicia Slough

In this 1947 film, Kris Kringle, played by Edmund Gwenn, must prove in court that he is the real Santa Claus . The movie also features a young Natalie Wood as Susan, a precocious girl whose belief in Santa—and magic—is eventually restored.

A feel-good story that questions the existence of Santa, this classic beautifully intertwines a court case with holiday charm and a message of faith.

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# 9 - Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Image: Earl Wilcox

One of the most recognizable Christmas characters, Frosty the Snowman—the hero of the titular song—was brought to life in animated form, complete with his pipe and iconic hat.

A gem released in the late ‘60s, this TV special tells the magical story of the jolly snowman brought to life by a hat , who, aided by children, embarks on a quest to avoid melting.

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# 8 - The Santa Clause (1994)

Image: Mitya Ivanov

In this well-known comedy, a divorced dad—played by Tim Allen—transforms into Santa Claus and must take on his role to preserve the Santa mythos .

Of course, this comedy holiday feature wouldn’t be complete without heartfelt father-and-son moments. Or hilarious sleigh ride scenes!

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# 7 - How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Image: Alex Stone

Jim Carrey is a mean one in this portrayal of Dr. Seuss’s anti-holiday hero ! Although the actor has shared many stories about how grueling it was to film the entire movie wearing the heavy costume—especially during the hot months—no one can argue that this film has become one of the most memorable and rewatched Christmas comedies.

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# 6 - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Image: Inna Lesyk

Chevy Chase stars in this comedy about a disaster-prone dad trying to create a perfect family Christmas. From setting up over-the-top house lights to dealing with the chaotic Cousin Eddie, people love returning to this classic for its laugh-out-loud moments.

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# 5 - A Christmas Story (1983)

Image: Erica Marsland Huynh

Simple: Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Is he going to get it? This movie, set in 1940s Indiana, is full of nostalgia , humor, and iconic scenes like the infamous leg lamp and triple-dog dares.

Fans adore A Christmas Story for its dry humor and the way it captures childhood anticipation during the holidays.

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# 4 - The Polar Express (2004)

Image: Matt Flores

All aboard! This animated film, featuring Tom Hanks in several adult roles, has become ingrained in the memories of millions of kids and their families.

Based on the beloved book, the movie follows a child who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole , where, hopefully, he will start believing in the magic of Santa Claus again.

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# 3 - It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

Image: Josh Harrison

This wasn’t an immediate hit, but it became a holiday icon through the magic of TV reruns. In this classic, James Stewart plays George, a man who discovers his worth after an angel shows him what life would be like if he had never been born .

Everybody loves the yearly reminder of the impact that one’s life can have—and of the power of kindness.

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# 2 - Elf (2003)

Image: Rajesh Kavasseri

Will Ferrell’s elfish character takes second place as the most-watched holiday movie every year. In it, a human raised by elves heads to New York to find his biological father.

Slapstick comedy meets wholesome Christmas charm in this holiday staple. Audiences love it for its whimsical humor and quotable lines.

15

#1 - Home Alone (1990)

Image: Juliana Malta

Did you guess it? The first place on this list goes to the adventures of young Kevin McCallister. He is left behind when his family goes on holiday and has to set up endless booby traps to defend himself and his home from burglars .

This holiday classic eventually became a franchise, but it was the original Home Alone , starring Macaulay Culkin, that became a perennial favorite.