Christopher Nolan is widely regarded as one of the best directors working today. His acclaimed films like Inception and The Dark Knight have made him a favorite of cinephiles. But which contemporary movies does Nolan himself admire? His picks provide insight into his influences and style. Surprisingly, one director who earned a spot on Nolan’s list is Edgar Wright, known for Shaun of the Dead and Baby Driver. Wright was famously removed by Marvel from directing Ant-Man due to creative differences.

What Films Made Christopher Nolan’s List of Favorites?

Christopher Nolan via WIRED interview
Christopher Nolan via WIRED interview

According to Farout magazine, Christopher Nolan highlighted a diverse mix of recent films and directors that he considers excellent examples of modern cinema:

  • The Tree of Life (Terrence Malick, 2011)
  • Baby Driver (Edgar Wright, 2017)
  • The Hateful Eight (Quentin Tarantino, 2015)
  • First Man (Damien Chazelle, 2018)
  • Unstoppable (Tony Scott, 2010)

He praised their strong directorial visions and cinematic craft. Nolan specifically cited Wright’s Baby Driver for its stylized direction and skillful editing that enhances the action.

Also Read: Christopher Nolan’s Holidays Ritual Includes Hugh Grant’s Best Christmas Movie

Why is Edgar Wright’s Inclusion Notable?

Edgar Wright via Vanity Fair
Edgar Wright via Vanity Fair

Edgar Wright is known for injecting unique styles into mainstream genres. But his bold vision and distinctive directorial approach ultimately led Marvel to remove him from directing Ant-Man in 2014 over creative differences.

Yet despite Wright’s very public falling out with Marvel due to his strong creative perspective, Nolan still views him as one of the most talented directors working today. Nolan clearly admires Wright’s auteur filmmaking sensibilities that shape his movies’ styles.

Also Read: Christopher Nolan Gave Gary Oldman “Probably… 2 Notes” in 7 Years While Filming The Dark Knight Trilogy

What Does This Say About Christopher Nolan’s Tastes?

Edgar Wright - Baby Driver
Edgar Wright’s Baby Driver

Nolan has a reputation for big-budget blockbusters, but his favorite film list shows he also appreciates indie gems like Aftersun and distinctive auteurs like Malick and Wright.

He seems drawn to directors with bold stylistic approaches that elevate their films. Nolan appears to value creative vision and skilled craft even in lesser-known works.

Edgar Wright - Baby Driver
A still from Baby Driver

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His diverse picks suggest that as an acclaimed auteur himself, Nolan recognizes and respects unique directorial voices across genres and budget levels.

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