What exactly is a perfect movie? A few years ago on Jimmy Kimmel Live, noted master filmmaker Quentin Tarantino listed seven films that he considers perfect. By his definition, a perfect film is unassailable and transcends all aesthetics. It might not be everyone's preference, but there's nothing that can be criticized to undermine its achievement. According to Tarantino, a perfect film flawlessly achieves its goals, leaving no room for legitimate criticism.
One of his most revealing selections is Tobe Hooper's grimy, low-budget horror, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. He describes it as a one-of-a-kind beast with perfection lying not in its script but in its relentless atmosphere of dread. Despite its bloody reputation, the film is almost bloodless, with horror implied rather than shown, making it a masterpiece of psychological terror.
Another is Jaws, which Tarantino calls the greatest movie ever made, not necessarily a film. He admires its flawless suspense, a result of Spielberg's reliance on subtle techniques due to technical limitations. Combined with a legendary score by John Williams, Jaws is hailed for its blend of genres and rich character development.
The Exorcist is praised for its sober, atmospheric horror and profound theological undertones. Tarantino admits he couldn't make it because it sustains a beautifully one-note atmosphere without needing comic relief.
Annie Hall is noted for breaking romantic comedy conventions with structural innovations like breaking the fourth wall and inventive scenarios, setting a new standard for the genre.
Mel Brooks's Young Frankenstein is a flawless parody and homage to 1930s Universal Horror films, blending loving attention to period detail with comedic genius.
Back to the Future is highlighted for its immaculate script, with every line and scene meticulously crafted to achieve satisfying narrative payoffs.
The Wild Bunch concludes the list as a raw and cynical film that, despite its imperfections, delivers a powerful statement on the end of an era through its uncompromising vision.
These films, according to Tarantino, each set out to achieve a specific goal and succeed in doing so, rendering them perfect by his standards.