Peter Jackson, the acclaimed director behind the Lord of the Rings trilogy, recently shared his all time favorite movies in interviews that continue to inspire fans in 2025. As he gears up for new Lord of the Rings projects set for 2026, Jackson’s picks highlight classics that shaped his career, from giant apes to zombie horrors and gangster epics.
Why Peter Jackson’s Favorites Matter Now
Jackson’s list comes at a time when his work remains in the spotlight. With Warner Bros announcing new Lord of the Rings films produced by Jackson and targeting a 2026 release, fans are revisiting his influences. These movies not only sparked his passion for filmmaking but also echo in his epic storytelling style.
His selections show a mix of genres that blend spectacle, humor, and drama. This insight helps movie lovers understand how early inspirations led to blockbusters like The Hobbit trilogy and his 2005 King Kong remake.
Experts note that Jackson’s choices reflect timeless cinema that still holds up today. In a fast paced world of streaming, these films offer lessons in creativity and innovation.
Top Pick: King Kong (1933)
King Kong tops Jackson’s list as the movie that ignited his filmmaking dream at age eight. Directed by Merian C Cooper and Ernest B Schoedsack, this classic follows explorers discovering a massive ape on a remote island, leading to chaos in New York City.
Jackson remade it in 2005 with stars like Naomi Watts and Jack Black, turning it into a three hour epic that grossed over five hundred fifty million dollars worldwide. He often credits the original for its groundbreaking effects and emotional depth.
The film’s legacy continues in 2025, with its one hundred percent Rotten Tomatoes score making it a must watch for new generations. Jackson’s passion for it shows how one movie can change a career path.
Fans point out parallels between King Kong’s themes of beauty and destruction and Jackson’s Lord of the Rings battles.
Zombie Thrills in Dawn of the Dead (1978)
George Romero’s Dawn of the Dead ranks high for its impact on Jackson’s early style. This horror classic traps survivors in a shopping mall during a zombie apocalypse, mixing gore with sharp commentary on consumerism.
Jackson says it shaped his sense of humor and splatter effects, seen in his films like Bad Taste and Braindead. The movie’s influence is clear in how he blends horror with comedy.
In recent years, zombie genres have exploded, with shows like The Walking Dead drawing billions of views. Jackson’s nod to this 1978 gem reminds us of its pioneering role.
| Film | Year | Director | Why Jackson Loves It |
|---|---|---|---|
| King Kong | 1933 | Merian C Cooper, Ernest B Schoedsack | Sparked his filmmaking passion at age eight |
| Dawn of the Dead | 1978 | George Romero | Shaped his humor and splatter style |
| The General | 1927 | Buster Keaton, Clyde Bruckman | Masterpiece of timing and stunts |
| Goodfellas | 1990 | Martin Scorsese | Frees up his imagination when stuck |
Silent Comedy Gem: The General (1927)
Buster Keaton’s The General stands out as a silent era triumph on Jackson’s list. This 1927 comedy follows a train engineer chasing his stolen locomotive during the Civil War, packed with daring stunts and clever gags.
Jackson praises it as one of the greatest films ever, highlighting Keaton’s incredible feats without modern effects. The movie’s precision and humor influenced Jackson’s approach to action sequences.
Today, with silent films gaining new fans through restorations, The General streams on platforms like Netflix, reaching over two hundred million subscribers. Its enduring appeal lies in pure cinematic magic.
Jackson recommends it for anyone seeking inspiration from cinema’s roots. The film’s real life basis adds a layer of historical intrigue.
Critics agree it’s a comedy milestone, often ranked among the top films of the twentieth century.
Gangster Epic: Goodfellas (1990)
Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas is Jackson’s go to for creative boosts. This 1990 crime drama stars Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, chronicling a mobster’s rise and fall with intense energy.
Jackson calls it his favorite Scorsese film, saying it unlocks his imagination during tough times. The movie’s fast paced editing and narration style have inspired countless directors.
In 2025, with crime dramas like The Sopranos prequel gaining buzz, Goodfellas remains a benchmark, earning over forty six million dollars at the box office originally.
Key elements Jackson admires include:
- Sharp dialogue that feels real and raw
- Dynamic camera work that pulls viewers in
- A soundtrack that enhances every scene
Its influence shows in Jackson’s own narrative flair.
Recent Updates and Jackson’s Evolving Tastes
As of 2025, Jackson has mentioned newer films that impress him, like the 2023 horror Talk to Me, which he called one of the best in years. This shows his tastes continue to evolve while honoring classics.
With his new Lord of the Rings movie, The Hunt for Gollum, directed by Andy Serkis and slated for 2026, fans speculate how his favorites might shape it. Jackson’s career, spanning over twenty films, keeps drawing from these inspirations.
Industry insiders predict the project could gross billions, building on the original trilogy’s success.
What do you think of Jackson’s list? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article along to fellow movie fans for more discussions on cinema classics.
