Christopher Nolan Movies Ranked from Worst to Best

Christopher Nolan movies are a  journey in the world of filmmaking that has been nothing short of captivating. He's earned a remarkable reputation in the industry for his talent in seamlessly blending gripping narratives with breathtaking visuals firmly establishing himself as one of the top-tier directors.

In this article, we're embarking on a cinematic journey through Christopher Nolan movies. We'll be ranking his movies from those that might not have hit the bullseye to the absolute best. Along the way, we'll delve into what makes each film unique and why it holds a special place in the world of cinema.

Does Christopher Nolan even make bad movies? Let's find out!

Nolan's career has been a remarkable ride, filled with twists and turns, just like the narratives he crafts on screen. So, let's grab some popcorn and explore the world of Christopher Nolan movies, one at a time.

Tenet

Tenet, while packed with Nolan's signature ambition, stands as one of his most challenging films. The concept of "time inversion" is intriguing but can be confusing for viewers. Unlike Inception, where the concept was explained through action, Tenet struggles to make this idea accessible until the final act. Additionally, Nolan's penchant for muddled sound mix reaches its zenith here, making it hard to follow both the plot and the dialogue. However, the film's spectacle, led by John David Washington and Robert Pattinson, is undeniably jaw-dropping. The enigmatic ending leaves viewers eager for a potential sequel, despite the initial befuddlement.

The Dark Knight Rises

The Dark Knight Rises, which wraps up Christopher Nolan's Batman series kicks off with an interesting time jump, showing a new side of Bruce Wayne's journey. Anne Hathaway is impressive as Catwoman but things get a bit tangled up in the plot. There are some confusing parts and the movie's attempt at social commentary isn't crystal clear. Bane's reasons for doing what he does are a bit fuzzy and while Tom Hardy does a great job, his character isn't as exciting as it could be, partly because of that mask. The movie's pacing is a bit up and down and some stuff feels like it's there just for the fans, not necessarily tying up the trilogy neatly.

Insomnia

Insomnia marks Nolan's transition into the studio system, showcasing his ability to handle A-list ensembles and larger scope while maintaining suspense. While not a standout in his filmography, it is a solid studio debut. Al Pacino, Robin Williams and Hilary Swank deliver competent performances, but the film, despite its potential, falls short of being truly compelling. Williams' dramatic skills are underutilized, and the movie, although technically proficient, lacks the emotional resonance found in Nolan's later works.

Following

Christopher Nolan's debut feature, Following, is a testament to his innate talent as a filmmaker. Made on a shoestring budget, it took a year to complete production due to the cast and crew's day jobs. Despite its limitations, Following showcases Nolan's confidence as a director. The film's noir narrative, following a struggling writer who becomes entangled in a web of intrigue, is complemented by striking black-and-white cinematography. While the conclusion may feel somewhat contrived, it remains a satisfying debut feature that foreshadows Nolan's future success.

Interstellar

Interstellar is a compelling yet frustrating film that reflects Nolan's desire to expand his horizons in the sci-fi genre. The world-building, both on Earth and in new planets, is visually impressive and Matthew McConaughey delivers a terrific performance. However, the film falters in its final act with the introduction of Dr. Mann, a plot twist that detracts from the emotional core of the story. The conclusion, emphasizing the expansion of humanity's reach, feels emotionally disconnected from the established themes.

Batman Begins

Batman Begins introduced Nolan's groundbreaking approach to the superhero genre. By grounding the film in a gritty reality devoid of supernatural elements, Nolan transcended the genre, creating a compelling large-scale drama. Christian Bale's portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman injects the character with depth and humanity, while Michael Caine's unique take on Alfred adds brilliance to the ensemble. The film's humor, primarily derived from Morgan Freeman's Lucius Fox and the Bruce-Alfred relationship, balances the grittiness. Despite a slight dip in the third act, Liam Neeson's reveal as Ra's Al Ghul ties the narrative together thematically and emotionally.

The Prestige

The Prestige is a pivotal film in understanding Christopher Nolan as a filmmaker. It explores themes of obsession, ambition and sacrifice all of which are recurrent in his works. The film's ensemble cast, particularly Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale, delivers stellar performances. The intricate narrative, revolving around dueling magicians in early 1900s London, unfolds with Nolan's trademark fractured storytelling. The film's emotional depth and character-driven plot make it one of Nolan's most satisfying films, despite being overshadowed by his bigger productions.

Inception

Inception is like walking a tightrope of big dreams and complexity. Nolan's direction is visually stunning, with some mind-blowing action scenes and unique settings. Leonardo DiCaprio and the rest of the cast really bring their A-game, making it all quite engaging. The movie's main idea about dreams within dreams is explored really well, and it keeps you hooked. Nolan also dives into how the team making the film mirrors the team within the dream, which adds some extra layers to the story. Inception is a mix of action, awe and deep feelings, making it one of Nolan's best films, no doubt.

Dunkirk

Dunkirk offers a unique cinematic experience, immersing viewers in the evacuation of Dunkirk during World War II. Nolan's use of multiple timelines, combined with practical techniques, creates a visceral and emotionally engaging narrative. The film's ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, allowing audiences to connect with the characters' fear, anxiety and determination. Nolan's masterful use of cinematography and practical effects captures the magnitude of the events. Dunkirk stands as a remarkable achievement in experiential filmmaking.

Oppenheimer

Oppenheimer is where Christopher Nolan really hits his stride as a filmmaker bringing together all his skills and experience to tell a gripping story. Cillian Murphy's performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer is truly outstanding and the film features a fantastic ensemble cast. Nolan's practical filmmaking techniques and his knack for visual storytelling shine throughout the movie. The narrative in Oppenheimer is intricate and complex with different timelines and perspectives and Nolan handles it all brilliantly. You can really see how he's grown as a filmmaker. It's a prime example of Nolan's talent for creating a well-rounded and mature piece of cinema.

The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight is hailed as the greatest superhero film ever made. Nolan's exploration of escalation in a crime drama format sets it apart. Heath Ledger's iconic portrayal of The Joker is a standout in cinema history. The film's tight plotting and character development, including Aaron Eckhart's exceptional performance as Harvey Dent, contribute to its success. While one might argue the film's length, The Dark Knight remains a groundbreaking and emotionally resonant masterpiece in Nolan's filmography.

Memento

Memento, Christopher Nolan's second movie, stands out as his finest work thus far. It's a noir masterpiece that introduces us to Nolan's trademark storytelling complexity. The film's two timelines, one in black-and-white and the other in color, really get you inside the head of the main character Leonard Shelby. Memento beautifully embodies Nolan's storytelling talent weaving a gripping story about sorrow, longing and the quest for revenge. Guy Pearce delivers an unforgettable performance and the film's themes hit you on a deep level. Nolan's practical filmmaking techniques and the way he structures the narrative set a high standard for his future projects. Memento is a cinematic treasure that truly showcases Nolan's unique storytelling skills.

It’s a Wrap!

Christopher Nolan movies are a testament to his evolution as a filmmaker, from his early indie days to his mastery of large-scale blockbusters. While opinions on the ranking of his films may vary, one thing remains consistent: Nolan's dedication to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual spectacle. Whether exploring the depths of the human psyche or the vastness of space, Nolan's films consistently challenge and captivate audiences, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential directors of our time.