Arliss Howard Movies: A Complete List From Start to Finish (in Order)

Tiffany Ayala
19 min readJul 11, 2024

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From nail-biting suspense to heart-warming dramas, Arliss Howard has graced the silver screen with a diverse range of memorable performances. In this captivating roundup, we delve into the world of Arliss Howard Movies, exploring the iconic films that have showcased the actor’s undeniable talent and charisma. Get ready to embark on a journey through time and genres as we uncover the remarkable works of Arliss Howard, one movie at a time.

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1. A Killer in the Family (1983)

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“A Family Affair of Murder” is a spine-chilling 1983 crime drama, skillfully directed by Richard T. Heffron, and showcases the acting prowess of Robert Mitchum, James Spader, and Lance Kerwin.

2. The Day After (1983)

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The Day After (1983) is a chilling and thought-provoking drama that explores the devastating realities of a nuclear holocaust. Set in small-town eastern Kansas, the film delves into the consequences faced by the community when they are forced to confront the unimaginable aftermath of a nuclear war. Directed by Nicholas Meyer, the film stars Jason Robards, JoBeth Williams, and Steve Guttenberg and has won two Primetime Emmys, with a total of six wins and eleven nominations.

3. The Prodigal (1983)

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In 1983, the heart-rending drama “The Prodigal” unfolds the life of Greg Stuart, a man tormented by his middle-class family’s conventional Christian values and yearning for something more authentic. Haunted by a sense of discontentment, he embarks on a perplexing odyssey of events that challenge his faith and spiritual convictions.

4. Door to Door (1984)

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In the 1984 film “Door to Door”, a charming yet cunning salesman named Larry (played by Ron Leibman) is a true con artist, using his talent for persuasion to swindle unsuspecting customers. When he encounters an honest, but struggling salesman named Leon (portrayed by Arliss Howard), Larry decides to share his shady methods with Leon, teaching him how to effortlessly swindle his victims for financial gain. As the two forge a partnership, they become a duo of unscrupulous dealers, taking advantage of their clients and even attempting to scam a poor widow.

5. Sylvester (1985)

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“Sylvester, “ a captivating 1985 film follows the journey of Charlie, a resilient 16-year-old orphan, and her quest to transform a wild and rebellious horse into an eventing champion named Sylvester. As she battles society’s expectations and personal trials, she perseveres with unwavering determination.

6. The Lightship (1985)

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The Lightship, released in 1985, is a gripping crime drama thriller directed by Jerzy Skolimowski. With a PG-13 rating, the film stars acting legends Robert Duvall, Klaus Maria Brandauer, and Michal Skolimowski, providing a star-studded cast for this riveting tale.

7. The Ladies Club (1985)

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“The Ladies Club” is an enthralling crime drama directed by Janet Greek, released in 1985. This gripping film centers on the harrowing journey of a courageous policewoman in the face of brutal violence, leading to the formation of an audacious vigilante group. Consisting of several rape victims, they embark on a hazardous mission to capture and castrate males responsible for repetitive acts of violence against women. By exploiting legal technicalities, they strategically escape punishment, proving a chilling indictment of society’s willingness to turn a blind eye to such heinous acts.

8. Hands of a Stranger (1987)

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In 1987, Hands of a Stranger emerged as a suspenseful crime drama, captivating its audience with intrigue and emotion. This gripping narrative unfolds in New York, where the story revolves around a devoted detective, portrayed by Armand Assante. As this dedicated officer unravels a devastating truth — his beloved spouse has been brutally attacked by a heartless rapist — the lines between personal vendetta and professional duty blur.

9. Full Metal Jacket (1987)

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“Full Metal Jacket” is an intense and unforgettable war drama that sheds light on the dehumanizing effects of the Vietnam War on soldiers. Directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick, the movie follows a pragmatic U. S. Marine as he witnesses firsthand the brutal training of recruits in the army’s boot camp and their harrowing experiences during the street fighting in Hue. The film, based on the semi-autobiographical books “The Short-Timers” and “Dispatches, “ stars Matthew Modine as the main character and R. Lee Ermey as the hard-nosed drill instructor with a knack for getting the recruits to follow orders and survive in combat situations.

10. Plain Clothes (1988)

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Dive into the comedic world of “Plain Clothes” (1988), a Mystery, Romance, and Comedy movie starring Arliss Howard as undercover officer Nick. In his quest to prove the innocence of his brother, he enrolls in high school once more and faces the joys and challenges of adolescence.

11. Tequila Sunrise (1988)

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Dive into the exhilarating thriller “Tequila Sunrise” (1988), where Mel Gibson portrays a former drug dealer striving to distance himself from his illicit past. Caught in a treacherous love triangle, his dark connections and history come back to haunt him, attracting the scrutiny of the DEA, Mexican law enforcement, and powerful drug cartels alike.

12. Last Flight Out (1990)

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Last Flight Out, a gripping 1990 drama directed by Larry Elikann, transports viewers to the tumultuous last days of Saigon in 1975 as the Vietcong forces close in. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, this powerful film centers on a desperate race to secure seats on the last scheduled Pan Am commercial flight out of the city.

13. Men Don’t Leave (1990)

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“Men Don’t Leave” is a captivating 1990 film that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggle to keep things intact, even when the stakes are high. Directed by Paul Brickman and featuring an all-star cast, including Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, and Arliss Howard, this heartwarming comedy-drama spins an engrossing tale set in the bustling city of Baltimore, Maryland.

14. Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture (1990)

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“Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture” is a gripping drama that follows the life of Raymond Eames, a small-time drug dealer sentenced to death for the shooting of a policeman. With seven years of unsuccessful appeals, Raymond’s final wish is to have his execution photographed, which leads him to select Paul Marish, a disillusioned Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer.

15. Iran: Days of Crisis (1991)

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“Delve into the tense and gripping drama of Iran: Days of Crisis (1991), a harrowing portrayal of the 1979 Iran hostage crisis. Directed by the renowned Kevin Connor, this film takes us through the harrowing experiences of hostages who were held captive in the US embassy in Tehran, Iran for over 400 days.

16. For the Boys (1991)

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For the Boys, released in 1991, is an engaging comedy-drama infused with music that captures the camaraderie and passion of U. S. entertainers during World War II. Eddie Sparks, a talented entertainer, contacts the soulful singer-dancer Dixie Leonard to perform for soldiers in theaters across North Africa and the Pacific. Together, they deliver an unforgettable showcase of their talent, quickly becoming a beloved duo.

17. CrissCross (1992)

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“CrissCross” is a thought-provoking, coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of the historic 1969 Apollo moon landing. Set in Key West, 12-year-old Billy (played by Arliss Howard) gets embroiled in selling cocaine to help his mother, a stripper, get out of the trade.

18. Till Death Us Do Part (1992)

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“Till Death Us Do Part” is a chilling true crime drama based on the book of the same name by Vincent Bugliosi, the prosecuting attorney who famously put away Charles Manson. Set in the quiet neighborhood of El Sereno, California, the film recounts the shocking events of December 11, 1966, when Henry Stockton is brutally murdered and his house set on fire.

19. Ruby (1992)

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Ruby, a thrilling 1992 crime drama directed by John Mackenzie, examines the intriguing conspiracy theories surrounding the JFK assassination through the lens of its protagonist, Jack Ruby. Set in 1963, Ruby is the owner of a shady strip club in Dallas, entangled in a web of deception and danger. As he gives information to the FBI and aids his mafia contacts, a series of events ensue that draw Ruby deeper into the complex web of crime.

20. Those Secrets (1992)

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“Those Secrets” (1992) is a gripping drama that follows the captivating journey of a seemingly happy wife and mother as she finds herself drifting back into her old profession as a call girl. As her life spirals out of control, her husband-wife relationship reaches new depths of tension.

21. The Sandlot (1993)

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“The Sandlot”, released in 1993, is a heartwarming family comedy-drama set in 1962. The film revolves around a new kid in town who finds solace and camaraderie with a talented young baseball enthusiast and his boisterous team, leading to a series of thrilling adventures.

22. Wilder Napalm (1993)

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“Wilder Napalm” (1993) takes viewers on a hilarious journey through the lives of two seemingly ordinary brothers who possess a unique ability to start fires with their minds. Reuniting after years apart, they find themselves caught in a whirlwind of conflict due to their differing lifestyles.

23. Natural Born Killers (1994)

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“Natural Born Killers” is a twisted and dark masterpiece that delves into the minds of two dysfunctional lovers and their descent into a spree of psychopathic violence. This thrilling crime drama, directed by Oliver Stone, explores the glorification of violence by the mass media as it follows the heart-wrenching tale of Mickey (Woody Harrelson) and Mallory (Juliette Lewis) as they wreak havoc and destruction on those around them.

24. The Infiltrator (1995)

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“The Infiltrator” is a gripping drama and thriller film released in 1995. The story revolves around a freelancer reporter who decides to take a bold and dangerous step by going undercover and infiltrating a Neo-Nazi hate group. As the plot unfolds, the reporter finds himself immersed in a world of deception, fascism, and the dangerous allure of extremism.

25. To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995)

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“To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar” is a 1995 comedy-drama film that follows the adventures of three drag queens journeying across the United States when their car breaks down in a small town. Starring Wesley Snipes, Patrick Swayze, and John Leguizamo, the film tackles themes of self-discovery, resilience, and acceptance.

26. The Man Who Captured Eichmann (1996)

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“The Man Who Captured Eichmann” is a thrilling, historical drama from 1996 that recounts the true story of a daring operation to capture Nazi war criminal, Adolf Eichmann. In 1960, the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad, executed a hostage extraction bringing Eichmann to face Israeli justice.

27. Beyond the Call (1996)

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Released in 1996, Beyond the Call is a riveting drama film that unfolds the harrowing tale of Russell Gates, an ex-Vietnam War veteran, wrongfully condemned to death row for a heinous crime he never truly committed. The film’s leading lady, Pam O’Brien, portrayed by Sissy Spacek, can’t believe her former sweetheart capable of such atrocities and spirals into a dark obsession with reality. In her quest to safeguard her spouse, Keith, from the sinister truths emerging, Pam delves deeper into Russell’s case, searching for means to avert his impending demise.

28. Tales of Erotica (1996)

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“Tales of Erotica” is a provocative and tantalizing compilation film that brings together a collection of erotic short films, all featuring unexpected endings. Directed by iconic directors Bob Rafelson, Ken Russell, and Susan Seidelman, this audacious piece of cinema delves into the realms of the risqué and the unexpected, pushing boundaries and surprising viewers at every turn.

29. Johns (1996)

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In the electrifying 1996 drama “Johns, “ we follow the life of a young man named John, who, on the eve of his 21st birthday and the Christmas season, embarks on a journey to find love and acceptance in the heart of Los Angeles. As John navigates the complex world of internalized homophobia, friendship, and the harsh realities of life, he finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and danger, pushing him to his limits in the pursuit of happiness.

30. Amistad (1997)

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Amistad is a captivating historical drama depicting the true events of 1839, when a group of Mende captives overthrew their oppressors aboard a Spanish-owned ship off the coast of Long Island. Their plight sparks a major controversy in the United States, prompting a legal battle as the captives face the question of their freedom.

31. Old Man (1997)

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Experience the gripping drama that unfolds during the Great Flood of 1927 in the heart of Louisiana’s Bayou country. “Old Man” tells the story of a desperate prison escape attempt, as a seasoned convict weighs the risks and rewards, promising love and freedom. Based on a thought-provoking short story, the film masterfully captures the complexities of love, loss, and the unyielding power of human spirit.

32. The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)

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“The Lost World: Jurassic Park” takes viewers back to the world of the fearsome and awe-inspiring dinosaurs. Seven years after the events of the first Jurassic Park, a group of researchers is sent to the mysterious island of Site B to study the dinosaurs that still roam there. However, they’re not the only team on the island, as a group from InGen has a different agenda altogether.

33. The Lesser Evil (1998)

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“The Lesser Evil” is a compelling drama and thriller set in 1975. Four young boys, now aged adults, find themselves being haunted by a horrific crime they committed when they were teenagers. Their decision to take matters into their own hands resulted in a deadly confrontation with two bullies.

34. A Map of the World (1999)

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A Map of the World, released in 2000, delves deeply into the life of a woman grappling with life-altering consequences. This drama film, directed by Scott Elliott, features an impactful performance by Julianne Moore and a powerful presence by Sigourney Weaver.

35. You Know My Name (1999)

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Embark on a thrilling journey with the fact-based biography of Bill Tilghman, a lawman, gunslinger, producer, and director. This 1999 film, aptly titled “You Know My Name, “ transports viewers to the wild west through the experiences of this legendary figure. Sam Elliott, Arliss Howard, and Carolyn McCormick grace the screen, bringing depth and authenticity to their portrayal of Tilghman.

36. Big Bad Love (2001)

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“Big Bad Love” is a quirky and heartfelt comedy-drama-romance film that showcases the struggle of a man named Barlow, an aspiring writer grappling with failed attempts, unpaid child support, and life’s many challenges. Arliss Howard stars as the protagonist, delivering a raw and poignant performance that captivates audiences. The movie takes us through Barlow’s journey to find his purpose, as he navigates through his life with an eccentric combination of humor, drama, and romance.

37. The Song of the Lark (2001)

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“The Song of the Lark” is a 2001 drama, featuring a riveting journey of a young country girl who aspires to become a virtuoso pianist. However, upon discovering her true talent in singing, her instructor unveils a world of possibilities that transcends her initial aspirations. Set in the late 19th century, this absorbing film by director Karen Arthur explores the complexities of human ambitions and the power of self-discovery.

38. Word of Honor (2003)

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“Word of Honor, “ a 2003 drama with a runtime of 1h 31min, follows the gripping journey of a retired army lieutenant, Major Ben Tyson, portrayed by Don Johnson. The movie is set in a world where the government, the army, and the married life of the protagonist are all entangled in a story of the Vietnam War. Tyson finds himself in the midst of a massacre that took place three decades ago and now becomes the talk of the town thanks to a just-published book, prompting the army to recall Tyson for a trial.

39. Dandelion (2004)

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In the heart of a quaint, isolated small town, life revolves around the rolling fields, endless skies, and families haunted by fragmented silence. Sixteen-year-old Mason, yearning for love, finds solace in a chance encounter with Danny, an empathetic yet troubled girl. As their bond intensifies, Mason’s world spirals when a fatal accident shatters their harmony, plunging him into a series of life-altering complications and loss.

40. Birth (2004)

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Discover the enthralling drama of “Birth” (2004), a gripping film directed by Jonathan Glazer and written by Jean-Claude Carrière, Milo Addica, and Glazer himself. Starring Nicole Kidman, Cameron Bright, and Lauren Bacall, this enigmatic mystery unfolds as a young boy, Sean, relentlessly pursues a woman, Anna, to convince her that he is her dead husband reborn. The story takes a surreal turn as Sean delves deeper into the woman’s past, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation that shatters their world.

41. Dawn Anna (2005)

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“Dawn Anna” is a heartwarming drama based on a true story that transcends life’s obstacles. Told from the perspective of a determined single mom, the film takes viewers on a journey of resilience and hope.

42. Awake (2007)

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Awake, a gripping crime drama from 2007, follows the shocking story of a wealthy young man who, after undergoing heart transplant surgery, discovers that the surgical team he trusted intend to murder him. As he navigates the labyrinth of lies and deceit surrounding his life, he must also confront the pain and fear of his fragile condition.

43. Weapons (2007)

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Discover the shocking connections woven through a weekend of chaos in ‘Weapons, ‘ a gritty drama that explores the dark underbelly of youth violence. In a sleepy small town in America, seemingly random acts of gun violence unravel to reveal the harrowing threads that bind them together.

44. The Missing Person (2009)

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The exhilarating drama, “The Vanished Individual,” introduces private detective John Rosow, who is enlisted to track a man on a train journeying from Chicago to Los Angeles. As the investigation unfolds, Rosow discovers the man’s true identity — a missing person.

45. The Time Traveler’s Wife (2009)

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“The Time Traveler’s Wife” is a riveting romantic drama that transports you to an unconventional world, where love defies time. The film, which stars Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams, revolves around Henry DeTamble — a charming and unusual librarian who discovers he has a unique ability to travel in time without any effort. This condition, called “chronome, “ drastically affects his personal life, particularly his passionate relationship with his wife, Clare Abshire, played by McAdams.

46. GasLand (2010)

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“GasLand” is a thought-provoking documentary that dives deep into the world of fracking, an industry that has become a major source of energy in the United States. The film explores the impact of this high-stakes operation on the environment and communities alike. Director Josh Fox takes the audience on a compelling journey through the American heartland, highlighting the serious consequences of our reliance on fossil fuels.

47. Moneyball (2011)

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“Moneyball, “ a 2011 biographical drama, takes an innovative approach to the world of baseball. Directed by Bennett Miller and featuring a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt, Robin Wright, and Jonah Hill, the movie recounts the inspirational journey of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane, played by Pitt. Beane revolutionizes baseball by utilizing advanced statistical analysis, or “sabermetrics, “ to assemble a competitive team on a budget.

48. Over/Under (2013)

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Over/Under, a gripping drama released in 2013, follows the life of Paul Keller, a hedge fund manager with a gambling addiction who, after causing financial chaos for his company, must face the reality of unemployment. Along with his wife Vicky, Paul relocates to a picturesque Brooklyn neighborhood on the brink of gentrification, where Vicky’s photography studio resides in a beautifully renovated brownstone.

49. Kubrick Remembered (2014)

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Kubrick Remembered is a captivating documentary that delves into the remarkable life and career of the legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick. This engaging film, part of the ten-disc Stanley Kubrick: The Masterpiece Collection, shines a spotlight on Kubrick’s profound impact on the world of cinema.

50. Concussion (2015)

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“Head Games” is a gripping drama that revolves around the life-altering discovery of Dr. Bennet Omalu, an astute pathologist in Pittsburgh, portrayed by Will Smith.

51. The Boy Downstairs (2017)

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“The Boy Downstairs” is a delightful and amusing romantic comedy that will leave you grinning and pondering past relationships. This film centers around a young woman, portrayed by Zosia Mamet, who accidentally resides in the same apartment complex as her former boyfriend. As she encounters the numerous embarrassing circumstances, she ultimately learns that facing the past might be the best approach to letting go.

52. Filmworker (2017)

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Embark on a remarkable adventure into the realm of cinema as you discover the captivating documentary, ‘Filmworker’ (2017). This intriguing film invites you on an enthralling exploration into the life of renowned English actor, Leon Vitali, whose deep-rooted love for the film industry would ultimately lead him to collaborate closely with the brilliant American filmmaker, Stanley Kubrick, for an impressive 30-year period.

53. Mosaic (2017)

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“Mosaic” (2017) is an alluring blend of drama and sci-fi that immerses audiences in the intricate labyrinth of hybrid identities via the captivating tale of a transforming chimeric creature called ‘Mosaic.’

54. Mank (2020)

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“Mank” takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through the tumultuous world of 1930s Hollywood as seen through the eyes of Herman J. Mankiewicz, played by Gary Oldman. A scathing social critic and alcoholic screenwriter, Mankiewicz is in a race against time to finish the screenplay for “Citizen Kane, “ a monumental film that would go on to shape the entire landscape of cinematic history.

55. Lapsis (2020)

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“Lapsis” is a gripping drama that delves deep into the life of Ray, a struggling delivery man who decides to take an unusual job to support himself and his ailing younger brother. The film takes an unexpected turn as it transports audiences to a strange, new realm within the gig economy, filled with danger and intrigue.

56. With/In (2022)

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With/In is a refreshingly unique, darkly comical short film that delves into the world of lockdown during the ongoing pandemic. As the lives of the characters take a surreal turn, With/In humorously captures the absurdity of the new normal. This intimate film showcases the resilience and humor of people facing extraordinary circumstances and presents an uplifting story of hope amidst chaos.

57. The Killer (2023)

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Experience the adrenaline-fueled action of “The Killer” in 2023, starring Michael Fassbender and Tilda Swinton. Following a harrowing near-death encounter, this relentless assassin finds himself embroiled in an international manhunt he claims isn’t personal.

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