How to Identify a Good Movie: From Hitchcock to Bergman, Shared Criteria Across Time

What Is a good movie and Why Does It Matter?

The question of what makes a  Good Movie has fascinated audiences, filmmakers, critics, and philosophers for decades. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, many believe that a film that invites repeated viewing holds a special place in cinematic experience.

Hitchcock's Take on the Good Movie

Alfred Hitchcock once said that a good movie is one you can't stop watching. This endless rewatchability points to a film's emotional grip. Interestingly, philosopher Robert Pippin also highlights the value of repeated viewings in understanding deeper layers of Hitchcock’s Vertigo in his book The Philosophical Hitchcock.

Aesthetic Experience in a Good Movie

One strong indicator of a good movie is the aesthetic pleasure it offers. Some scholars refer to this as the “aesthetic experience,” which can prompt viewers to rewatch a film even if they can't explain why. It's about feeling, beauty, and emotional resonance beyond logic.

Film Programmers and the Psychology of Rewatching

Film programmer Edvinas Pukšta notes that sometimes even fast-paced films leave such a strong impression that viewers instinctively want to watch them again. This speaks to how a good movie can linger in the mind, regardless of genre, pace, or even initial discomfort.

Why Certain Films Stay in Our Minds

Legendary director Ingmar Bergman once said that certain characters stay with him long after the film ends. That lasting memory — that urge to revisit — is a powerful hallmark of a good movie. These films embed themselves emotionally, asking to be seen again and again.

Conclusion: The Intuitive Standard of a Good Movie

Though personal preferences vary, the common thread in identifying a good movie might be this: the desire to return. It’s a blend of aesthetic joy, emotional connection, and intellectual intrigue — a movie that speaks to us deeply, and often more than once.