The Best Movie Montages of All Time
The montages that made movie magic
The montage — cinema's shorthand for "a lot just happened, and we need you to catch up." Whether it's a boxer going from zero to hero, or a fashionista-in-the-making trying on every outfit in her designer arsenal, the montage has a way of encapsulating the essence of a film's journey within a few brisk minutes. These compressed narratives have become such a cornerstone in filmmaking that they've often stolen the show, leaving audiences with something memorable, quotable, and sometimes, downright iconic. Today, we're rolling the reel on the most unforgettable movie montages that have left a lasting impact.
1. 'Rocky' (1976) — that run
"Eye of the Tiger" anyone? The training montage in the 1976 film "Rocky," served as the blueprint for countless other montages that would follow in cinema. It's a montage that defines the genre, with Rocky Balboa pounding the meat, chugging eggs, and racing up the Philadelphia Art Museum steps. Not only does it make you want to start a rigorous training regime, but it also encapsulates the essence of the American dream.
2. 'The Devil Wears Prada' (2006) — fashion transformation
Anne Hathaway's transition from frumpy assistant to chic fashionista is the transformation we all crave but seldom achieve. Set to the infectious tune of "Suddenly I See" by KT Tunstall, this montage is a whirlwind tour through high fashion's glitziest closets. Out go the lumpy sweaters and ill-fitting skirts; in come the designer outfits, killer heels, and the kind of accessories that make you say, "Is that Chanel?"
3. 'Flashdance' (1983) — dance training
The dance training montage in "Flashdance" is a pulsating, sweat-drenched spectacle that's hard to forget. From the iconic water drop to the vigorous, borderline gymnastic dance moves, this montage is an adrenaline shot of pure '80s glam.
Set to the infectiously inspiring song "Maniac" by Michael Sembello, this isn't just a sequence of dance moves; it's a heady cocktail of grit, ambition, and raw emotion. You can almost feel the burning muscles and see the hours ticking away as Alex pushes herself to the limit.
4. The Breakfast Club' (1985) — dance montage
Five detention-bound teens breaking into spontaneous dance? The 80s, everyone! But seriously, it captures the quintessence of teen angst and rebellion, making it eternally relatable. Set to Karla DeVito's "We Are Not Alone," five students from different social backgrounds break free from their high school labels in an uninhibited dance-off in a library. As the camera shifts from one teen to another, each dances in a way that both defies and embraces their stereotype.
5. 'Up' (2009) — Carl and Ellie's life montage
Pack your tissues; Pixar's opening montage compresses a lifetime of love, loss, and unfulfilled dreams into a mere four minutes, proving you don't need dialogue when you have storytelling this powerful.
6. 'Scarface' (1983) — rise to power
Say hello to Tony Montana's rapid ascent in the Miami drug world. The montage is as fast, furious, and explosive as the character it portrays, accompanied by Giorgio Moroder's slick synthesizer score. Set to the pulse-pounding track "Push It to the Limit," the sequence provides a stylized, hyper-energetic overview of Tony's increasing wealth, power, and audacity. Through a series of quick cuts, we see a life fueled by ambition but teetering on the edge of self-destruction. This montage has become emblematic of both the character's relentless pursuit of the American Dream and the ultimate pitfalls that await him,
7. 'Pretty Woman' (1990) — shopping
"Big mistake. Big. Huge," Who can forget Julia Roberts, armed with a credit card and a point to prove, taking Rodeo Drive by storm? Directed by Garry Marshall, this 1990 classic serves us a slice of retail therapy like no other. It's not just a shopping spree; it's a rebellion, a coming-of-age, and a high-five to self-worth—all set to the tunes of Roy Orbison's "Oh, Pretty Woman." Every bag she adds to her growing collection feels like a win for anyone who's ever been underestimated.
8. 'Footloose' (1984) — dance training
When we talk about iconic montages, "Footloose" just has to cut loose! Kevin Bacon turns an empty warehouse into a dance floor in this adrenaline-pumping sequence. Let's be real, who hasn't dreamed of releasing all their pent-up frustrations through the art of dance? Bacon's Ren McCormack does just that, complete with gymnastics, gravity-defying leaps, and even a bit of angry dancing. It's a glorious celebration of youthful rebellion and a physical declaration of personal freedom.
9. 'Goodfellas' (1990) — the Layla montage
In Martin Scorsese's 1990 crime epic "Goodfellas," the Layla Montage serves as a chilling cinematic crescendo that showcases the grim fallout of the Lufthansa heist. Set to the poignant piano outro of "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos, the sequence is a poetic ballet of brutality, as the camera reveals the bodies of characters unceremoniously disposed of on orders from Jimmy Conway.
10. 'Forrest Gump' (1994) — running
He just felt like running, and so will you after watching this montage. As Forrest grows a beard and gathers a following, we're given a cross-country tour through diverse landscapes and seasons, all set to Alan Silvestri's uplifting score.
11. 'Dirty Dancing' (1987) — dance training
If you ever wanted to learn how to dance while also falling in love, this montage is your template. Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze's sensuous dance routine becomes an aesthetic feast, showing us that practice can indeed make perfect.
12. 'The Karate Kid' (1984) — martial arts training
As Ralph Macchio's Daniel LaRusso "waxes on and waxes off" his way to greatness under the tutelage of Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita, we're given more than just a sequence of martial arts drills. Set to the era's uplifting anthems, LaRusso is unknowingly mastering fundamental karate techniques while absorbing life lessons in discipline, focus, and balance.
13. 'Top Gun' (1986) — flight training
Tom Cruise in aviators, flying fighter jets, high-octane thrills and chills—what's not to love? " The flight training montage in 1986 "Top Gun" is essentially an aviation ballet set to the electrifying beats of Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone." Tom Cruise, as Maverick, takes to the skies in a showcase of spectacular aerial maneuvers, mid-air rivalries, and the undeniable cool factor that comes with flying an F-14 Tomcat.
14. 'The Godfather' (1972) — the Baptism
In 1972's "The Godfather," the Baptism Montage stands as one of the most haunting and brilliantly executed sequences in film history. As Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino) renounces Satan and all his works in a serene church, orchestrating his godson's christening, his orders to eliminate rival gangsters unfold simultaneously in a series of chilling scenes. The juxtaposition between the sacred ritual and the violent executions is bone-chilling, underscored by a solemn organ music that morphs into a dramatic orchestral score. This isn't just filmmaking; it's a masterclass in tension and contrast, courtesy of director Francis Ford Coppola.
This article was produced and syndicated by MediaFeed.
