Top 100 Greatest Movie Scenes You've Never Seen

#100: Therapeutic Ritual

“First Reformed” (2017)

Questioning his life and faith, Reverend Ernst Toller goes on a psychedelic ride with parishioner Mary. Both take a wild and unexpected journey through the natural world.

#99: The Id Monster Attacks

“Forbidden Planet” (1956)

Despite the dated effects, “Forbidden Planet” keeps the thrills coming in this scene. The sci-fi foe proves to be much more sophisticated than the crew could’ve imagined.

#98: William Tell Game

“Naked Lunch” (1991)

For anybody squeamish, this scene is especially tough to watch. David Cronenberg’s adaptation of the Burroughs novel doesn’t stop pushing buttons or rattling your psyche.

#97: Demonic Cave

“The Wailing” (2016)

The demon’s unsightly appearance throws Yang I-Sam for a loop. We don’t blame him either because that’s one terrifying sight.

#96: Car Ride

“In a Lonely Place” (1950)

Humphrey Bogart’s troubled man bursts at the seams here. The car scene finds him ready to fight, perfectly encapsulating all of the pent up aggression.

#95: Starting the Shootout

“Free Fire” (2016)

With a misplaced gunshot, the events of “Free Fire” take off in style. Everyone goes to their corners as hot heads and inflated egos reach their tipping point.

#94: Football Game

“Bottoms” (2023)

The fight club tests their skills versus the rival football team. With absurd comedy, the characters prove their strength in an outrageous brawl.

#93: Traffic Stop

“Queen & Slim” (2019)

When a traffic stop goes haywire, the lead characters make life-changing choices in seconds. The believable acting and social commentary only heighten this dramatic scene.

#92: The Pool

“George Washington” (2000)

A kid tries to be a hero in this triumphant scene. With every second that goes by, you might find yourself biting your nails.

#91: A Series of Strange Weddings

“A Boy and His Dog” (1975)

The inner workings of an underground cult come to the surface. The group’s nefarious schemes are never more disturbing than in this torturous scene.

#90: Jane & John

“Predestination” (2014)

Sarah Snook pulls double duty here in this time-traveling film. Able to pull off the dual-role, the actress carries the trippy and warm scene.

#89: Car Scene

“The Toxic Avenger” (1984)

This sequence is an example of what makes Troma films so wacky. It’s nonstop, unexpected, and unafraid to shock.

#88: Life at Last

“Phantom of the Paradise” (1974)

This underseen musical is bold with its musical choices and campy visuals. In this particular number, the film roars with a vibrant energy.

#87: The Reveal

“The Orphanage” (2007)

Laura comes to realize the truth surrounding Simón’s fate. Finding his body, the pain and horror of the moment can’t be overstated.

#86: Fighting in the Beginning

“Brotherhood of the Wolf” (2001)

In this period film, a brutal fight takes place. The weather, costumes, and slow-motion make it all the more impressive.

#85: A Fiery End Fight

“The Omega Man” (1971)

Charlton Heston’s survivor battles it out against the head of a plague cult. The enemy has much better aim than anybody might expect, making this escape scene much more interesting.

#84: The Wrong Sceptre

“The Score” (2001)

In this fun switcheroo, Robert De Niro’s character is prepared for everything. The tables are turned and this film gives you one more awesome twist.

#83: The Arrest

“Waves” (2019)

This scene creates a cacophony of sounds and flashing lights. It’s a sobering and disturbing one, depicting the breakdown of a family.

#82: Resentment

“Marvin’s Room” (1996)

Diane Keaton and Meryl Streep are on their A-game in this family drama. For this scene, their characters finally let their resentments spill out. It’s an enthralling watch.

#81: Hysteria

“Millions” (2004)

Director Danny Boyle brings sharp visuals and energetic editing to this scene. If that’s not enough, there’s also some help from the band Muse.

#80: Talking to Mom

“Imagine Me & U” (2005)

This rom-com makes you remember that sometimes you just need to talk to your mom. In a quiet scene, the film dishes out some important knowledge about life.

#79: Dancing to Rihanna

“American Honey” (2016)

This gritty tale about America, capitalism, and youth comes together thanks to Rihanna. The use of “We Found Love” captures the characters and their free spirit.

#78: Starting to Forget

“Hiroshima mon amour” (1959)

A couple come together in a moving exchange about love, passion, and memory. With an open-ended finale, this drama makes some complex statements about this relationship.

#77: Stuart’s Death

“Backbeat” (1994)

The tragic story of Stuart Sutcliffe comes to a sudden end. Without much time to say goodbye, the artist has a heartwrenching sendoff.

#76: Last Race

“Hidalgo” (2004)

A sandy horse race comes to a smashing conclusion. With a skilled rider and a trusty steed, this thrilling scene makes you believe in hard work.

#75: Lost Thumb

“The Pope of Greenwich Village” (1984)

Both delivering compelling work, Mickey Rourke and Eric Roberts’s heroes reach a low point. A missing thumb creates one of the movie’s most disturbing moments.

#74: Opening the Box

“Coherence” (2013)

When dinner party guests find a mysterious box, the tables turn in this underrated gem. The contents of the container only make you want to keep watching.

#73: Destroying Timeline

“Timecrimes” (2007)

A break-in has earth-shattering repercussions. This scene gives the sci-fi plot another interesting surprise, with Clara’s fate altering everything.

#72: Favorite Color

“In the Mouth of Madness” (1994)

This unassuming bus scene takes a dramatic turn. Sam Neill gives the moment an extra jolt, belting out one of his best horror performances.

#71: The Bath

“The Handmaiden” (2016)

This intimate setting finds the two lead actresses testing their electric chemistry. In the end, their characters grow closer in this arresting scene.

#70: Explaining Brother’s Death

“Frailty” (2001)

Matthew McConaughey plays against type in this eerie scene. It lets the actor show his range, while also being super scary.

#69: Kelly Affair Performance

“Beyond the Valley of the Dolls” (1970)

This scene allows the film to take a campy and musical detour. It’s catchy, crazy, and another highlight of this wild experience.

#68: Putting Down the Horse

“The Rider” (2017)

This realistic scene explores the pain of letting go of an animal. The beautiful cinematography is juxtaposed with a poignant goodbye.

#67: Minstrel Show

“Bamboozled” (2000)

Spike Lee’s confrontational film boldly tackles stereotypes in this scene. It’s nothing short of an unforgettable take on race relations in America.

#66: End Chase

“THX 1138” (1971)

Early in his career, George Lucas shows off his talent for visionary worlds and action. The chase feels like a fitting way to end this imaginative sci-fi film.

#65: Sex Pistols Show

“24 Hour Party People” (2002)

For this dramatized vision of music history, the filmmakers re-enact an iconic Sex Pistols gig. The scene uses humor, performance, and meta-commentary in an effective way.

#64: Confrontation

“The Women” (1939)

This legendary cast gets to take some verbal shots at each other. The film doesn’t need special effects or elaborate sets, opting instead to let these actresses do what they do best.

#63: The Jump“Eddie the Eagle” (2015)

This scene channels all of the exhilaration of watching sports. Using crowd reactions and slow-motion, the movie makes you want to cheer.

#62: Village Raid“The Northman” (2022)

For this epic adventure, director Robert Eggers presents a captivating set piece. The character of Amleth will likely stun listeners with his strength.

#61: 1st Kill

“Blood and Black Lace” (1964)

A masked killer stalks and dispatches a victim. Without wasting any time, Mario Bava sets the mood with a spooky setup.

#60: Julian’s Death

“A Most Violent Year” (2014)

At a low point, Julian confronts his boss in this unsettling scene. The startling result shapes the drama in unexpected ways.

#59: The Reveal

“The Bigamist” (1953)

This modest 50s drama turns into something much more scandalous here. With the cries of a baby, a man and his lies start to crumble.

#58: First-Person Perspective

“Strange Days” (1995)

Filmmaker Kathryn Bigelow gives viewers an experience not unlike a video game. It’s both groundbreaking and visually-stunning.

#57: Opening Robbery

“Hell or High Water” (2016)

Two brothers have a slick and troubled plan of robbing banks. The start of this film illustrates this perfectly, setting up a tale about family and criminal lifestyle.

#56: The Crash

“Amores perros” (2000)

Director Alejandro González Iñárritu starts off with a literal bang. This frenetic car chase sets the story in motion, bringing together diverse stories into one hypnotic cocktail.

#55: Mentalist Act

“Nightmare Alley” (1947)

Tyrone Power paints a complex portrait of a carnival barker. This scene shows him trying a more sophisticated act, with Power’s anti-hero captivating the audience on and off screen.

#54: Finishing Blow

“Trollhunter” (2010)

The monster is weak and there’s only one thing left to do. This fantasy film reaches its most exciting scene, with Hans turning the troll to stone.

#53: Subway Scene

“Possession” (1981)

A terrifying subway sequence explains Anna’s pain. Isabelle Adjani offers up some career-defining work.

#52: Moses Attacks

“Attack the Block” (2011)

Armed with fireworks, Moses plans a strategic assault on the monsters. It’s a scene full of impressive visuals and exciting action.

#51: The Tape Recorder“Session 9” (2001)

If you weren’t scared enough, “Session 9” brings out a tape to make things worse. The voice recordings might be enough to completely creep you out.

#50: The Final Chase

“Westworld” (1973)

The sci-fi film includes a third-act chase with lots of suspense. In a clever move, the human gets one over on his robotic pursuer.

#49: Christiane’s Escape

“Eyes Without a Face” (1960)

In a wicked tale about facial reconstruction, Christiane finally takes a stand. The haunting end still shocks all these decades later.

#48: The Heist

“The Killing” (1956)

Stanley Kubrick’s early film features an electrifying robbery. With masks on, the criminals make this unsettling scene stick in your brain.

#47: Auditions

“Waiting for Guffman” (1996)

Eccentric characters stop by to audition for a show, giving the judges a difficult task. Each one is more comically-surprising than the next.

#46: Dancing in the Bar

“Moonlight Mile” (2002)

A grieving man makes a jukebox selection, creating a stunning moment in a bar. The somber scene says so much without the need for dialogue.

#45: Poetry

“Make Way for Tomorrow” (1937)

This tragic film takes a small moment for a poetic aside. Enjoying their time together, the two older characters show their love through a common appreciation.

#44: Amy’s Last Flight

“Fly Away Home” (1996)

For a movie about geese migration, this conclusion will satisfy animal lovers of all kinds. The young hero Amy leads the flock in this heartwarming scene.

#43: Family Dinner

“Pariah” (2011)

Taking aim at a universal concept, this scene examines what can happen when a family gets around a dinner table. The meal ends up being realistic about all of the usual highs and lows.

#42: Running Away to Disney

“The Florida Project” (2017)

When all seems lost, Moonee and her friend run away to the happiest place on earth. Sean Baker’s drama reaches a devastating conclusion with a healthy dose of fantasy.

#41: “Moanin’ Low”

“Key Largo” (1948)

Claire Trevor may have won an Oscar for this scene alone. Singing the song “Moanin’ Low,” the actress plays the scene with both an impressive and terrified demeanor.

#40: Dr. Ledgard’s Demise

“The Skin I Live In” (2011)

After everything that’s happened, Ledgard’s death might not seem all that surprising. This scene still ends up being shocking through the strength of the acting and writing.

#39: Split in Two

“Bone Tomahawk” (2015)

Sheriff Hunt watches in horror as his deputy is killed. The filmmakers make it all look believable, pushing this Western to the limit with both gross sights and sounds.

#38: Failed Truce

“Brick” (2005)

The Pin and Tugger almost settle things, but then this crime thriller gives you another twist. Rian Johnson knows how to give mystery fans yet another reason to stay tuned.

#37: The Fire

“The Devil’s Backbone” (2001)

This Spanish Civil War drama reaches a fiery point with this alarming scene. With lives on the line, this historical film takes a dramatic turn.

#36: Reconciling

“Indiscreet” (1958)

Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman prove why they’re two of Hollywood’s greatest performers. Their characters come back together with a mix of humor and raw emotion.

#35: Wig in a Box

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” (2001)

Bringing this stage musical to the screen, John Cameron Mitchell captures the show’s heartfelt spirit in this scene. The number “Wig in a Box” explores the depth of the hero’s transformative journey.

#34: Almost Crashing“The Straight Story” (1999)

Alvin Straight’s tractor journey almost hits a snag, but he ends up making out okay. David Lynch’s low-key adventure lets this scene be both endearing and captivating.

#33: Standoff

“Wind River” (2017)

A criminal case builds to this standoff between law enforcement and guards. The tension is almost too much, but the resulting gunfight is especially ferocious.

#32: Recording the Title Song

“The Harder They Come” (1972)

Jimmy Cliff shows off his acting and singing talents, bringing this reggae tune to the screen. This scene mixes fact and fiction with a legendary soundtrack.

#31: Fighting the Hunters

“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016)

The unlikely duo encounter hunters, but the scene doesn’t go the way you might think. Sam Neill’s character charges one of the guys in a funny burst of energy.

#30: Goodbye to the Robots

“Silent Running” (1972)

Bruce Dern gives a tender performance opposite some robots. Near the end of “Silent Running,” the cool concept also offers up some moving moments.

#29: Car Chase

“Ronin” (1998)

Director John Frankenheimer crafts one of the best car chases of the 1990s. He makes you feel like you’re really there, with cameras and cars weaving through tight corners.

#28: Shootout

“Matewan” (1987)

A labor dispute builds to this thrilling shootout. In a storm of violence, the townspeople take up arms and the filmmakers create a towering achievement.

#27: Catherine Moves to Oust Peter

“The Scarlet Empress” (1934)

Catherine II prepares her coup against Peter III, prompting a notable line from Count Alexei. The hair, costumes, and set design couldn’t be better.

#26: Three Possible Futures

“Mr. Nobody” (2009)

As a young Nemo passes by three girls, each one of them presents a different future. This scene playfully toys with the concept of time and the decisions that shape our lives.

#25: Fly Me to the Moon

“Dogtooth” (2009)

An overbearing father explains a song to his children, showing the lengths he’ll go to control them. It’s an effective and sinister scene with hints of dark comedy.

#24: Noriko’s Goodbye

“Tokyo Story” (1953)

Shūkichi thanks his daughter-in-law Noriko, making for a moving scene between family members. The profound emotions arguably compel the audience to examine their own lives.

#23: Visions of Ghoul

“Carnival of Souls” (1962)

Following an accident, Mary begins to see creepy figures. This scene brilliantly captures the experience of a nightmare you can’t seem to escape.

#22: Beast in New York

“The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms” (1955)

What happens when the titular monster reaches the Big Apple? This scene blends terror and entertainment into one fun package.

#21: Escaping POW Camp

“La Grande Illusion” (1937)

When French prisoners escape a German camp, two characters must confront their allegiances. The exciting scene mixes real-world turmoil with the end of a complicated relationship.

#20: Fake Out

“Brazil” (1985)

Just when things look rosy for Sam Lowry, he ends up back in the torture chamber. Terry Gilliam’s sci-fi vision ends with a bang and doesn’t give you a fairytale ending.

#19: The Twist

“Audition” (1999)

Takashi Miike’s crazy ride messes with your mind. On the edge of their seats, viewers can’t believe it as the hero wakes up and returns to a terrifying state.

#18: Dinner Scene

“Pig” (2021)

Nicolas Cage’s restraint makes this scene especially powerful. His character Rob takes down a chef with some well-written words.

#17: Thanksgiving

“She’s Gotta Have It” (1986)

Nola Darling invites her boyfriends for a meal, bringing her feelings to the table. Spike Lee’s debut uses a fun ensemble to dissect gender issues in an entertaining scene.

#16: Doctor or a Priest

“Sleepers” (1996)

This intimidating scene showcases Robert De Niro’s acting talent. Using one key phrase, his character Father Carillo makes a memorable threat.

#15: The Key

“Notorious” (1946)

Showing off his directorial talents, Alfred Hitchcock makes a key the star of this scene. The audience waits with baited breath as a master moves his camera.

#14: Cop Standoff

“La Haine” (1995)

The cycle of violence continues after a run-in with the cops. With the final moments, “La Haine” wraps up its masterful thesis about crime, the police, and social upheaval.

#13: A Vision of Dave

“2010: The Year We Make Contact” (1984)

Harkening back to the original, this sequel takes one giant leap for this scene. Dave returns to provoke more questions and give this movie a better mystery.

#12: Climactic Monster Meet-Up

“A Monster Calls” (2016)

Instead of scaring the hero, the monster reappears during a poignant part of Conor O’Malley’s life. The touching scene brings a new meaning to the tree’s presence in the story.

#11: Arrow Dance

“Hero” (2002)

With their nimble maneuvers, they both deflect and dodge the incoming fire with grace. The scene is also choreographed to perfection.

#10: The Dance

“Metropolis” (1927)

In this classic film from Fritz Lang, a sci-fi film reaches an abstract high point. Apocalyptic visions mix with dancing to create an editing and directing masterclass.

#9: Confronting Call

“Paris, Texas” (1984)

In an emotional scene, Travis finally explains himself to his wife Jane. The unorthodox reunion makes for a heartfelt reveal.

#8: Getting Rid of the Bomb

“Stalker” (1979)

The central trio let a bomb get between them, but then they finally settle down. This contemplative scene shows the extent of Tarkovsky’s skill with quiet moments.

#7: Kangaroo Court

“M” (1931)

Peter Lorre’s killer meets his match in a stirring scene. Before he can be dealt with, the police arrive in a stunning surprise.

#6: The Strangers

“Dark City” (1998)

From the mouth of Dr. Schreber, the plot of this underrated film expands. Kiefer Sutherland’s breathless delivery only highlights the movie’s greater mysteries.

#5: Mark’s Death

“Peeping Tom” (1960)

The villain creates one last disturbing film, making himself the final victim. It’s a genius reversal for a bad individual.

#4: Revenge

“In the Bedroom” (2001)

This moody scene builds to a shocking moment of revenge. It feels incredibly realistic, but also provokes a fascinating discussion about morality.

#3: Final Phone Call

“Fail Safe” (1964)

Sidney Lumet’s direction builds to the unforgettable sound of a phone line going out. Leading a terrific ensemble, Henry Fonda’s performance speaks to the pain of this moment.

#2: Church Burning

“Come and See” (1985)

This examination of WWII features horrifying sights. German troops enter a village and lock people into a church. While the building burns, the scary event reaches a haunting crescendo.

#1: Gas Station Scene

“Primer” (2004)

Contemplating time travel, both heroes discuss their plans at a gas station. The simple setup starts to illustrate the complexity of their choices.

Did we forget another awesome and underseen film clip? Let us know in the comments below.