At the end of every year, every decade, and now every century and millenium (!), lists of the best films, best actors and best actresses are always compiled by all and sundry, ranging from the American Film Institute (AFI) to the Internet film enthusiast. So I thought I would have a section devoted to such lists. As always, any list like this is subject to debate and controversy. Remember when the AFI released their top 100 and all the associated hullabaloo? What people must realise is that different people like different films, and opinions should be respected rather than treated as an insult to one's own tastes. Anyway, without further ado, here are the lists. As time passes, the entries may change. Enjoy!

For lists by genre and other categories, go here.

Spielberg's masterpiece was robbed of Best Picture at the Academy Awards. A visceral assault on your senses, it slams you in the gut from the brutal opening and never lets you go. Will be remembered more in years to come than Shakespeare in Love, the film that eventually won the Oscar. Full review.

James Cameron's sequel to the horrific Alien outdoes it for genuine excitement and atmosphere. Superb special effects and expert pacing builds the suspense, until everything is unleashed in a non-stop final 40 minutes of thrills and chills that's almost breathtaking in its intensity. Great performance by Sigourney Weaver.

Superb entertainment that combines comedy, nostalgia, time travel and a DeLorean in a delightful and heady mix. Everything fits together perfectly, from the in-jokes, the paradoxes, the music, and the last minute dash where everything conspires against Marty McFly.

Adapted from the play by Reginald Rose, this film shows that an electrifying script can hold your attention better than any visual candy from the likes of The Phantom Menace could ever do. A simple setting (jurors' room), a simple story (is the accused guilty or innocent?), simple but well-delineated characters, and crackling dialogue. A great film. Full review.

Spielberg's first blockbuster is one of his best. The story of a monster shark terrorising a seaside community turned many people off the beach, much like Psycho turned people away from showers in the early 60s. Three well-developed main characters, a classic John Williams score, and brilliant editing by Verna Fields (watch for the scene changes!). Full review.

Another Spielberg classic, Raiders delivered excitement, special effects, great action and a tremendous hero in Dr Indiana Jones. Cliffhanger sequences and a marvellous truck chase through the desert, plus one of the funniest and most memorables scenes in history when Jones shoots a sword-wielding enemy.

Disney's animated revival peaked with this glorious retelling of the classic fairyale. The timeless story of a beautiful girl who wins the heart of a ferocious and ugly beast is romantic and heartwarming, filled with lovable characters, wonderful music, and stunning animation, especially in the ballroom scene. Deservedly nominated for Best Picture, the first animated film to win such a distinction.

Every time I watch this inventive comedy, I always find a new line or situation that cracks me up. The story of a sarcastic, grumpy weatherman who experiences the same day over and over again is expertly directed, with a great Bill Murray performance. The scene where he suddenly quotes classic French poetry to Andie Macdowell is uproarious. Gets better with each viewing.

The most expensive and highest grossing film of all time is grand cinematic entertainment, effortlessly transporting you to a different time and place for 3 hours. The tale of forbidden love on the unsinkable ship of dreams contains many moments of humour, drama, romance, excitement and tragedy. The sinking of the ship is awe-inspiring cinema at its best.

One of the great World War II epics, recounting the daring escape by allied POWs from a German prison camp. Charismatic, star-making performance from Steve McQueen, especially in the exciting motorcycle chase. Beautiful cinematography, a great cast, and stirring Elmer Bernstein music combine to form one of the most entertaining 3 hours in motion picture history.