As filmmaking technique and social mores change, films that have previously won Best Picture may no longer resonate with modern audiences. Other films simply should have never won in the first place, while a choice few become classics. Here are eight Best Picture winners that have stood the test of time and are still very much worth watching today.

The Godfather (1972)

There is no doubt that The Godfather continues to be a clear standout among Oscar-winning pictures. Francis Ford Coppola managed to turn this gangster melodrama into a surprising masterpiece of modern cinema. The stellar cast, innovative cinematography, and well-paced three-hour runtime make for a thoroughly enjoyable and gripping movie all the way through.

The Godfather Part II (1974)

Just two years later, Francis Ford Coppola did it again. The Godfather Part II is arguably the best sequel ever made. Many would even argue that it is better than the original. The sequel was certainly even more ambitious, broadening the story and delivering it in a flawlessly confident manner.

Casablanca (1943)

An all-time romantic classic, Casablanca is deeply embedded in our collective culture. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s performances continue to sweep us off our feet while the screenplay and skilled directing make all the other aspects of the film enjoyable to watch as well.

Schindler’s List (1993)

Schindler’s List is a fantastic showcase of Steven Spielberg’s undeniable prowess as a director. The film follows German industrialist Oskar Schindler, who protected over 1,000 Polish Jews at his factory during the Second World War. The film is a beautifully shot retelling of this important story.

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia is a true epic film. This sweeping tale, displayed in 70mm cinematography, is complete with stunning landscape shots, ambitious battle sequences, and one of the best screenplays of all time. It tells the semi-fictional story of a British Lieutenant named T.E. Lawrence who is sent on a campaign in the Middle East during World War I.

West Side Story (1961)

West Side Story and the incredible cast and production team behind the movie won a total of 10 Oscars at the 1962 Academy Awards, all of them well-deserved. A film by Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise, West Side Story became an instant classic thanks to its infectious song and dance numbers, wonderful acting, and fantastic costumes.

The Apartment (1960)

Billy Wilder’s The Apartment is a tale of love and life set in the corporate world of mid-century Manhattan. The film strikes a poignant cord between comedy and tragedy and offers a surprisingly astute perspective on women’s limited options at the time. The performances by Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine alone are worth the watch.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

The conclusion to Peter Jacksons’ beloved Lord of the Rings adaptations, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King was a film that pushed the boundaries of visual effects while functioning as a textbook for quality overall filmmaking as well. It is an epic grand finale fitting of an epic series.

Great filmmaking truly is a treat. If you’ve caught Oscar fever or you’re just looking for something good to watch on movie night, then any of these eight Oscar-approved films are a solid pick.