10 Best Oscar-winning movies of all time

There’s something truly magical about Oscar winning movies. These films have not only captivated audiences worldwide but have also been recognised as the best in cinematic history. Winning an Academy Award for Best Picture is no small feat—it means the film has excelled in storytelling, performances, direction, and overall impact. If you love watching the finest of cinema, here’s a list of the best Oscar winning movies that have left a lasting mark on film lovers across generations.

1. Schindler’s List (1993)

Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, Schindler’s List is one of the Academy Award best movies of all time. This harrowing tale follows Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saves over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust. Shot in black and white, the film’s cinematography and emotional depth make it an unforgettable experience. It won seven Academy Awards. Schindler’s List was also the Academy Award winners for best picture, and remains one of the greatest films ever made. Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

2. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Few films in history have mastered suspense and psychological terror like The Silence of the Lambs. This gripping thriller stars Jodie Foster as an FBI trainee who seeks help from the terrifying yet charismatic Dr. Hannibal Lecter (played brilliantly by Anthony Hopkins) to catch a serial killer. It is one of the few Oscar winning films to have swept the top five Academy Awards, including the Academy Award best movie, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Actress. Available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

3. Anora (2024)

Among recent Academy Award winners for Best Picture, Anora stands out for its deeply moving narrative. The film, directed by Sean Baker, tells the compelling story of a woman caught in a whirlwind of unexpected circumstances, making for an emotionally rich and thought-provoking cinematic journey. With its stellar performances and socially relevant themes, it has earned its place among the best Oscar winning movies. Available on JioHotstar.

4. Forrest Gump (1994)

Few films have captured hearts quite like Forrest Gump. This beloved classic follows the extraordinary journey of Forrest Gump (played by Tom Hanks), a kind-hearted man who unwittingly finds himself at the centre of many historic events. With its touching story, brilliant performances, and iconic dialogues, it deservedly won the Academy Award for Best Picture. It’s one of those Oscar winning movies that you can watch over and over again. Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

5. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

Epic in every sense of the word, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is the third and final instalment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Directed by Peter Jackson, the film masterfully concluded the grand saga of Middle-earth, featuring breathtaking visuals, unforgettable characters, and a deeply satisfying ending. It holds the record for winning several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, making it one of the most successful Oscar winning films in history. Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video and JioHotstar.

6. Braveheart (1995)

If you love historical dramas, Braveheart is a must-watch. Starring and directed by Mel Gibson, the film tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who leads his people in the fight for independence against English rule. Packed with intense battle sequences, powerful speeches, and stunning cinematography, it won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It remains one of the most inspiring Academy Award winning movies ever made. It’s available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.

7. 12 Years a Slave (2013)

A deeply moving and brutally honest film, 12 Years a Slave is based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 19th century. Directed by Steve McQueen, the film’s raw storytelling, exceptional performances, and unflinching portrayal of history earned it the Academy Award for Best Picture. It’s one of the most important Oscar-winning films ever made.

8. Gladiator (2000)

“Are you not entertained?” This iconic line from Gladiator still resonates with fans today. Starring Russell Crowe as Maximus, a betrayed Roman general seeking justice, the film is packed with thrilling battles, political intrigue, and a gripping storyline. Directed by Ridley Scott, Gladiator won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, making it a timeless Oscar-winning movie. Streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

9. Titanic (1997)

No list of the best Oscar winning movies would be complete without Titanic. Directed by James Cameron, this legendary film tells the tragic yet beautiful love story of Jack and Rose against the backdrop of the doomed Titanic voyage. With breathtaking visuals, an unforgettable soundtrack, and stellar performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, Titanic won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Titanic can be watched now on JioHotstar and Amazon Prime Video (on rent).

10. The Departed (2006)

A gripping crime thriller, The Departed is one of Martin Scorsese’s best works. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson, the film follows an intense cat-and-mouse game between an undercover cop and a mole within the police force. With an unpredictable plot, brilliant acting, and masterful direction, it won the Academy Award for Best Picture, cementing its place among the best Oscar winning movies.

 

Why Watching These Movies Online is Best with Vi

Now that we’ve gone through some of the greatest Academy Award winning movies, the next question is—where’s the best place to watch them? With Vi’s mobile plans that come bundled with OTT subscriptions at no extra cost, you can enjoy these Oscar winning films anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re commuting, travelling, or simply relaxing at home, Vi ensures seamless streaming with high-quality video playback and smooth connectivity. Here are some of our prepaid and postpaid plans that offer OTT subscriptions at no extra cost:

Prepaid:  

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Postpaid:      

Besides the aforementioned, we also have Postpaid plans that are meant for family usage, and they start from INR 701 per month. Also check out our INR 299 postpaid family add-on pack that offers exceptional connectivity and data benefits. Subscribers using our postpaid services in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Odisha, Assam, North East, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh circles will be able to access Unlimited Data with the aforementioned plans.

 The best Oscar-winning movies are not just films; they are cinematic masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Whether it’s the emotional depth of Schindler’s List, the thrilling suspense of The Silence of the Lambs, or the epic adventure of The Lord of the Rings, these Academy Award-winning movies offer something extraordinary for every movie lover. And with Vi’s OTT-enabled mobile plans, enjoying these legendary films has never been easier. So, why wait? Start streaming today and experience the magic of the best Oscar-winning movies with Vi!