American Entertainment
American entertainment is exported to countries around the world, especially in the form of TV shows and films. From all-time classics to modern hits, here are the top movies and TV shows in America.
Whether you want to impress your host family, bond with coworkers, or just relax after a long day, these are great places to start.
Top 10 U.S. TV Shows (of All Time)
The TV landscape is more crowded than ever, offering every genre and topic imaginable. Yet, a select few shows have stood the test of time, becoming ingrained in American culture and everyday language. Even if they have not watched every episode, many Americans can still quote these shows thanks to their widespread popularity and lasting impact.
- The Sopranos (HBO, 1999-2007) – Revolutionary for blending prestige drama with organized crime. Often credited with launching the “Golden Age of TV.”
- The Wire (HBO, 2002-2008) – A gritty, layered exploration of Baltimore’s institutions, from police to schools to politics, hailed as near-literary in scope.
- Seinfeld (NBC, 1989-1998) – The “show about nothing” became a defining sitcom of the 1990s, changing the rules of comedy and television writing.
- Friends (NBC, 1994-2004) – Universally beloved ensemble sitcom that has endured in popularity, especially with younger generations on streaming.
- The Simpsons (FOX, 1989-present) – The longest-running American sitcom and animated series, a pop culture juggernaut with sharp satire (especially in its early years).
- M*A*S*H (CBS, 1972-1983) – A unique mix of comedy and wartime drama. Its finale remains one of the most-watched TV episodes in history.
- Game of Thrones (HBO, 2011-2019) – Though divisive in its final season, it redefined fantasy on TV and set records for viewership and awards.
- The Office (NBC, 2005-2013) – A beloved mockumentary workplace comedy that became a cultural phenomenon, especially popular with younger viewers on streaming platforms.
- I Love Lucy (CBS, 1951-1957) – Groundbreaking in format and production. Lucille Ball’s comedic genius shaped generations of sitcoms.
- The Twilight Zone (CBS, 1959-1964) – A sci-fi anthology ahead of its time, influencing everything from Black Mirror to Lost with its moral parables and twist endings.
Top 10 U.S. TV Shows (2020s)
With the rise of streaming platforms, TV shows with passionate fan bases have become common topics of conversation both socially and at work. These selections reflect the cultural shifts of the early 2020s, including the rise of international content (especially Korean), the dominance of streaming, and themes of isolation, economic inequality, and the search for meaning. Watching the newest TV shows is a great way to relax and connect with others. Americans do not hold back when it comes to sharing their favorite characters or opinions on the story, so feel free to share your honest thoughts as well!
- Squid Game (2021-2025) – Netflix’s Korean survival drama that became the platform’s most-watched series and concluded with Season 3 in 2025.
- The Last of Us (2023-present) – HBO’s acclaimed video game adaptation starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey.
- Severance (2022-present) – Apple TV+’s mind-bending workplace thriller returned for a highly anticipated second season in 2025.
- The Bear (2022-present) – FX/Hulu’s kitchen comedy-drama continued its acclaimed run through 2025.
- Wednesday (2022-present) – Netflix’s Addams Family spin-off starring Jenna Ortega that became a cultural phenomenon.
- House of the Dragon (2022-present) – HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel focusing on the Targaryen civil war.
- The Pitt (2025-present) – Noah Wyle’s medical drama that premiered in January 2025, covering a single 15-hour hospital shift.
- Andor (2022-2025) – Star Wars series that concluded its acclaimed two-season run in 2025.
- Abbott Elementary (2021-present) – ABC’s mockumentary comedy about Philadelphia teachers that became a critical and ratings hit.
- The White Lotus (2021-2025) – HBO’s anthology series concluded its three-season run with Season 3 set in Thailand.
Top 10 U.S. Movies (of All Time)
Hollywood, the heart of America’s film industry, is a defining force in U.S. culture and has made a lasting impact worldwide. Here are some iconic classics whose unforgettable lines and devoted fan bases have cemented them in cinematic history.
- Citizen Kane (1941) – A bold, innovative look at the life of a wealthy newspaper magnate, told through flashbacks. Famous for its deep-focus cinematography and often cited as the greatest film ever made.
- The Godfather (1972) – A dark, poetic saga of power, family, and betrayal within the Italian-American Mafia. Its iconic performances and complex storytelling redefined the gangster genre.
- Casablanca (1942) – Set during World War II, this romantic drama follows an American expat torn between love and duty. Endlessly quotable and emotionally resonant, it is a timeless classic.
- Schindler’s List (1993) – A haunting portrayal of the Holocaust through the eyes of Oskar Schindler, who saved over a thousand Jews. Stark and powerful, it is one of the most important films ever made.
- Pulp Fiction (1994) – A stylish, non-linear crime film that interweaves multiple storylines with sharp dialogue, dark humor, and unforgettable characters. A modern cult classic.
- Gone with the Wind (1939) – A sweeping Civil War-era romance centered on the fiery Scarlett O’Hara. Lavish and dramatic, it remains iconic, though also controversial for its depiction of race and slavery.
- The Wizard of Oz (1939) – A beloved fantasy musical following Dorothy’s magical journey through Oz. Famed for its visuals, music, and heartwarming message about home and bravery.
- Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) – The space opera that launched a cultural phenomenon. Blending myth, adventure, and groundbreaking effects, it changed blockbuster filmmaking forever.
- Psycho (1960) – A chilling thriller about a woman on the run and a mysterious motel. Known for its shocking twists and eerie atmosphere, it redefined horror cinema.
- 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) – A visionary sci-fi epic exploring human evolution, AI, and space exploration. Minimal dialogue, stunning visuals, and a haunting score make it unforgettable.
Top 10 U.S. Movies (2020-2025)
Alongside the timeless classics, these recent films have sparked widespread attention and are likely to come up in conversation. They reflect the diversity and creativity of contemporary American filmmaking.
- Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022) – Academy Award Best Picture winner that swept the Oscars with its multiverse adventure.
- Nomadland (2020) – Frances McDormand’s Academy Award-winning journey through modern American economic displacement.
- Minari (2020) – Lee Isaac Chung’s intimate story of a Korean American family pursuing the American Dream in Arkansas.
- Dune (2021) and Dune: Part Two (2024) – Denis Villeneuve’s epic sci-fi adaptation starring Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya.
- Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) – Revolutionary animated sequel that pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling.
- CODA (2021) – Academy Award Best Picture winner focusing on a deaf family and their hearing daughter.
- The Power of the Dog (2021) – Jane Campion’s psychological western starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
- Oppenheimer (2023) – Christopher Nolan’s biographical epic about the atomic bomb creator.
- Poor Things (2023) – Yorgos Lanthimos’s surreal Emma Stone vehicle that won multiple Academy Awards.
- Top Gun: Maverick (2022) – Tom Cruise’s long-awaited sequel that revitalized the action blockbuster.
Where to Find Movies to Watch
Of course, you do not want to spend a big chunk of your time in the U.S. binging TV shows and movies in your apartment. Instead, get the full U.S. film experience by checking out a theater near you, ranging from mainstream to low-budget independent films.
Mainstream Films and Showtimes
- Fandango – Find movie times, show reviews, buy tickets, and watch trailers for popular movies in theaters across the U.S.
- AMC Theatres – Major national theater chain with listings, ticketing, discounts, and special movie events.
- Regal Cinemas – Another large theater chain with showtimes, ticket options, and movie promotions.
Independent, International, and Festival Films
- FilmFreeway – Great for discovering indie film festivals happening across the U.S., from major cities to small towns. You can search by location or dates.
- IndieWire – Covers independent film news, festival coverage, reviews, and release updates. Good for staying up to date on film culture in the U.S.
- Eventbrite – Search for local film screenings, themed movie nights, Q&As, and indie events in your area, including both free and ticketed events.
- Meetup – Join film lover groups or international communities in your city who regularly attend or organize screenings and movie discussions.
Bonus for International/Arthouse Films
- Alamo Drafthouse – A U.S. theater chain known for unique screenings, indie films, international movies, and themed events. Food and drinks are served during the movie!
- Local Film Centers (e.g., IFC Center in NYC, The Roxie in SF, Laemmle Theatres in LA) – Many U.S. cities have local cinemas dedicated to arthouse and international films. A quick Google search for “independent movie theaters in [city]” can help.
* * * Staff Picks * * *
Our team has strong opinions about TV and movies. Here are some of our personal favorites beyond the top 10 lists above!
TV Shows:
- Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (any U.S.-based episode, especially the West Virginia episode)
- Superstore
- Abbott Elementary
- Parks and Rec
- Insecure
- Reservation Dogs
- Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005-2008)
- Scandal (2012-2018)
- The West Wing
- Psych
- Bob’s Burgers
- 9-1-1
- Community
- Fargo
- The Residence
Movies:
- Lilies of the Field (1963)
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
- Star Wars (1977)
- Alien (1979)
- E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
- 12 Angry Men (1957)
- Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
- Groundhog Day (1993)
- Jurassic Park (1993)
- Clueless (1995)
- Toy Story (1995)
- Space Jam (1996)
- Independence Day (1996)
- When Harry Met Sally (1989)
- Home Alone (1990)
- Edward Scissorhands (1990)
- Sister Act (1992)
- The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
- The Boondock Saints (1999)
- Remember the Titans (2000)
- Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
- Inside Out (2015)
- The Social Network (2010)
- Trumbo (2015)
- Black Panther (2018)
- Booksmart (2019)
- Erin Brockovich (2000)
- Paris, Texas (1984)
- Dave (1993)
- You’ve Got Mail (1998)
- The Upside (2017)
- Burnt (2015)
- 42 (2013)
- Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021)
- Joy (2024)
- Thirteen Days (2000)
- Tongues Untied (1989)
