10 Cinematic Masterpieces for Those Who Seek Beauty in Everything

Spring is the perfect time to surround yourself with new experiences and infuse your daily routine with a touch of aesthetics. If you’re obsessed with finding beauty in everything around you, you’ll surely appreciate our curated list of inspiring films with truly stunning visuals.

Marie Antoinette, 2006

Sophia Coppola’s cult film about the life of the French queen Marie Antoinette is a must-watch for anyone who loves pastel hues, lavish costumes, and bold makeup. The extravagant outfits and elaborate hairstyles, powdered cheeks, and vibrant lips are sure to be a feast for your eyes.

In the Mood for Love, 2000

Wong Kar-wai’s dreamlike film features romantic music, dimly lit rooms, and the breathtaking beauty of the lead actress’s cheongsam dresses. The story explores unrequited love, reckless passion, and sensuality in a tense time in Southeast Asia. Interestingly, the director creates a sense of repetition in scenes; upon closer inspection of the costumes and other details, you realize that the two main characters are repeating the same actions over a long period.

Far from Heaven, 2002

This retro-drama tells a story set in a time when homosexuality was still considered an illness, and interracial romances were deemed impossible. The sexual revolution of a small family, the beauty of the American suburbs, and the charming features of a young Julianne Moore are the main reasons to add this film to your watchlist.

Nine, 2009

Famous Italian director Guido Contini is surrounded by luxurious women: Nicole Kidman, Marion Cotillard, Penélope Cruz, Kate Hudson, Judi Dench, Sophia Loren, and even Fergie. But even this cannot save him from his problems. The film features retro convertibles, burlesque dances, and sensual songs.

Burlesque, 2010

Speaking of burlesque, what happens when you mix Broadway with drag queen-style makeup? You get vibrant dances, incredible vocals by Christina Aguilera, stylish settings, and a great story about pursuing your dreams. A combination made in cinema heaven.

Cleopatra, 1963

Each scene in this film is a dream come true for any fan of unusual makeup. Elizabeth Taylor and her daring eyeliner offer the most dramatic look in cinema. The best adaptation of the story of the famous Egyptian queen, willing to do anything for the greatness of her people. Spectacular and vibrant.

The Handmaiden, 2016

This South Korean film made quite a stir, receiving a nomination for the Palme d’Or at Cannes and earning the approval of many critics from different countries. The story centers around the life of a poor girl, Sook Hee, who must help a con man deceive a Japanese aristocrat and take possession of all her property. The film balances between eroticism and thriller, and also delights with its antique settings and seductive imagery.

Drive, 2011

This film doesn’t have many dialogues or lengthy narratives, and the main character doesn’t even have a specific name. Ryan Gosling works as a stuntman on a film set, and in real life, he helps the mafia escape from crime scenes. This is not a typical action movie; thanks to Angelo Badalamenti’s soundtrack, each frame is filled with an incredible atmosphere and aesthetics.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, 2007

This French film features impressive cinematography and is based on the autobiographical book by Jean-Dominique Bauby. The main character wants to become a butterfly capable of flying out of his confinement: after a stroke, he became completely paralyzed. Now he lives in two worlds at once: real and imaginary. And he learns to love the world that has become inaccessible to him.

Cracks, 2009

An elite boarding school for girls, colorful uniforms, and the captivating Eva Green as a strict teacher idolized by her students. “The most important thing in life is desire,” her character says. And our desire is to rewatch this film immediately.