Thanks to films such as Tales From the Crypt (1973), Creepshow (1982), Trick ‘r Treat (2007), and V/H/S (2012), fans often associate anthology films with the realm of horror. However, anthology films exist for fans of nearly every imaginable genre, from western movies and science fiction films to neo-noir crime stints and animated musicals. All of those and more are covered on this list.
Typically, anthology films consist of three or more segments, and they can run the gamut of length. That’s the case with the films at hand. These all have well-known names attached either in front of the camera or behind the scenes, and in some cases, even both. You’re bound to recognize several titles along the way. All that said, these are the best non-horror anthology films, ranked.
20 To Each His Own Cinema (2007)
Perhaps by a landslide, To Each His Own Cinema (2007) features the most talented roster of creators to ever collectively helm an anthology film. The Coen Brothers, David Lynch, Gus Van Sant, and David Cronenberg are four of the finest American directors of their time. But there’s also Mexican filmmaker Alejandro Gozales Innaritu, along with Jane Campion, Michael Cimino, Roman Polanski, and even Wong Kar-wai.
Why It’s So Great
They each saw their respective segments into brilliant fruition, with each set of actors also establishing alluring rapports until the ending of their short. To Each His Own Cinema received widespread praise for nearly every aspect of filmmaking. But like many of its anthology counterparts, this project remains fairly unknown to the general audience. Here’s hoping that fans come around sooner rather than later.
19 Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask) (1972)
One of the earliest works from writer-director Woody Allen was Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask) (1972). Perhaps his most popular anthology film yet, the stories are only connected by the overarching element of sex, with Woody attempting to answer seven questions about sex in this project with the same number of stories.
Why It’s So Great
It’s a unique plot, with performers like Gene Wilder, Lynn Redgrave, and Allen himself playing a doctor, a queen, and court jester, respectively. Based on David Reuben’s 1969 book of the same name, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex saw great praise from critics, who lauded the film for its witty one-liners and consistent humor. Although its name value has recently waned, this remains an essential anthology film that isn’t horror.
Stream it on Prime Video
18 The Kentucky Fried Movie (1977)
With the comedy trio Zucker, Abrahams and Zucker penning the script, The Kentucky Fried Movie (1977) is among the funniest anthology films ever. It saw direction under John Landis, another comedic legend, who in the following year made the famous Animal House (1978). The success of the movie at hand led to his further feature films, with The Kentucky Fried Movie seeing great success that put a spotlight on its creators.
Why It’s So Great
On top of Landis, the trio Zucker, Abrahams and Zucker launched their careers off the success hereof. Though not the greatest anthology film you’ll read about today, The Kentucky Fried Movie is undoubtedly one of the most uproarious. Critics backed its quality, and fans gathered en masse upon release to see the project in their local movie theaters. It still holds decent name value all these years later, and justifiably so.
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17 Dreams (1990)
Perhaps the single most renowned filmmaker from Japan is Akira Kurosawa, who threw his hat into the anthology ring with Dreams (1990). Featuring eight vignettes, each story herein is reportedly inspired by actual dreams that were had by the filmmaker. They follow disparate characters such as an art student and a collection of mountaineers, with each segment boasting all the trademarks that had made Kurosawa so beloved to that point.
Why It’s So Great
Notable shot value, expert tactics of blocking, intriguing choices of film editing — from a behind-the-scenes standpoint, Dreams is just as well-made as each film under Kurosawa’s belt. This was the first project of his in over four decades that he penned by himself, which is revealed in the film’s more personalized plot points. There’s sheer creativity and imagination around every corner of Dreams, and the realm of anthology films is better off for the project overall.
Stream it on Tubi
16 Memories (1995)
From the mind of Katsuhiro Otomo, the animated science fiction film Memories (1995) features three stories by various directors. Beginning the bunch is a tale called “Magnetic Rose”, helmed by Koji Morimoto from Satoshi Kon’s screenplay. Following up was Tensai Okamura’s segment “Stink Bomb”, written by the aforementioned producer Katsuhiro Otomo. The latter created the final story, writing and directing “Cannon Fodder” to great critical acclaim.
Why It’s So Great
From well-implemented Dutch angles and POVs to grand establishing shots and frequent close-ups, the camerawork of Memories is worth a full-fledged description in itself. But those brilliant tactics of behind-the-scenes filmmaking also facilitated the telling of three compelling stories. Granted, critics were divided on which was the higher-quality segment. But if anything, that proves just how great Memories truly is.
Stream it on Prime Video and Tubi
15 New York Stories (1989)
Perhaps the three greatest film directors ever born in New York City are Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Woody Allen, with the trio teaming up to grace the world with New York Stories (1989). It’s first segment, Life Lessons saw direction under Scorsese from a script by Richard Price. Directing the second segment Life Without Zoë was Francis Ford Coppola, who co-wrote the script alongside his daughter Sophia. And finally, Woody Allen wrote and directed Oedipus Wrecks while also playing the lead character.
Why It’s So Great
The stories from Scorsese and Allen were generally well acclaimed by pundits of the industry. Meanwhile, most fans and critics alike felt underwhelmed by Coppola’s portion, about a 12-year-old girl who lives in a hotel. But really, it’s only a minor inconvenience to the wonderful flow of the overall product. New York Stories may not be perfect, but it’s an anthology film that’s nonetheless worth writing home about.
Rent it on Prime Video and YouTube
14 Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014)
Like its predecessor, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014) was directed by two creatives: Robert Rodriguez, and Frank Miller. It connects the familiar faces from the previous entry with a series of newcomers. An example of the latter is a character played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, while the returning players are those portrayed by Jessica Alba, Bruce Willis, and Rosario Dawson. And the whole way through, everyone performs in completely charismatic fashion.
Why It’s So Great
This entry boasts some of the most alluring visuals you’re ever likely to see, with a carefully curated color palette, unique shot value, and over-the-top effects that fit perfectly in line with the (under)world of Sin City. And individually, these stories also hold up as high-quality pieces of storytelling. Though not the most acclaimed anthology film ever made, A Dame to Kill For deserves its flowers nonetheless.
Stream it on YouTube, Tubi, and PlutoTV
13 History of the World: Part 1 (1981)
Through a collection of vignettes, Mel Brooks chronicles the story of humanity in History of the World: Part 1 (1981). That auteur is perhaps the all-time great when it comes to spoofs, and with this anthological entry, Brooks pokes fun at the epic film genre. He of course wrote and directed the film, and holds a production credit. But what’s more is that Brooks also plays five total roles, performing in convincing fashion alongside a staggering number of famous performers.
Why It’s So Great
Critics weren’t writing home about the quality hereof, or anything. But fans surely were. This is the kind of project that teenagers discussed outside their local movie theaters after the initial showing, debating which vignette provided the most laughs. With great name value today, History of the World is considered by some among the funniest films of its decade. That’s easily the case re: anthology films.
Rent it on Vudu and Apple TV
12 Paris, je t’aime (2006)
A fairly famous film as far as anthologies are concerned, Paris, je t’aime (2006) is one of many to feature a notable volume of talented directors. American figures such as Gus Van Sant and Alexander Payne are likely to ring a bell. But there’s also Joel and Ethan Coen, along with Wes Craven. Filmmakers from France show up, like Gérard Depardieu and Sylvian Chomet, while Alfonso Cuarón even creates a segment. And of course, each story featured herein is set in the titular city.
Why It’s So Great
With twenty-two tales told in rapid succession, there’s little room for character development. But once Paris, je t’aime concludes, plots of pure poignance combine to create a tangible tone that will resonate long after an initial viewing. It helps that numerous behind-the-scenes elements are at play around every corner of production, resulting in an essential anthology film that holds up wonderfully all these years later.
Stream it on YouTube and Tubi
11 Kaos (1984)
Like many anthology films, Kaos (1984) is pieced together by the commonality of location. The four stories stand by themselves, set in Sicily and focusing on creatures like a raven, humans — a landlord, peasants, a mother who misses her sons — and even a werewolf. And it’s worth noting that this is among the lengthiest films of its kind, with the segments averaging forty-minute runtimes (plus an epilogue).
Why It’s So Great
But this is a three-hour experience very few forget, indicated by its 100% approval rating on critical consensus website Rotten Tomatoes. The overall product also resonated fondly with fans, and justifiably so. This should be regarded as a masterclass of screenwriting, cinematography, and acting combined, even if its length prevented popularity upon release. There’s no better time for Kaos to receive recognition.
Stream it on Prime
An animated sci-fi stint, Heavy Metal (1981) features a gripping opening sequence that leads into an intriguing inciting incident. A framing segment sets up eight stories that each take place in a technologically advanced or high-fantasy society while revolving around a crystalline orb known as the Loc-Nar. But these tales also feature highly aestheticized violence and constant scenes of nudity.
Why It’s So Great
While still praising the film, critics denounced its primitive elements. But regarding animated anthologies, Heavy Metal remains among the best. A star-studded array of actors, talented directors — like many films of this nature, it features a capable cast and crew. But perhaps most notable would be its collection of musical artists: Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, and Cheap Trick, for example. There’s also Journey, Devo, Nazareth, and Stevie Nicks, with each name attached helping to create a certified cult classic.
Rent it on Prime Video
9 Coffee and Cigarettes (2003)
Perhaps the greatest director of anthology films is Jim Jarmusch, whose most famous work of this ilk is Coffee and Cigarettes (2003). While most anthology movies see direction under different creatives for each segment, Jarmusch tackles all of his films alone. The one at hand consists of eleven segments, all revolving around respective pairs of characters partaking in the titular indulgences. These caffeine-addicted chain-smokers are all portrayed by popular, talented actors, and they lead the project to qualitative heights.
![Coffee and Cigarettes Scene 1](https://www.todaysauthormagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/coffee-and-cigarettes-scene-1.jpg)
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Why It’s So Great
Cate Blanchett, Alfred Molina, Jack and Meg White — there’s a seemingly endless list of well-known names among this famously star-studded cast. From Tom Waits and Iggy Pop to Isaach de Bankolé and Roberto Benigni, the director at hand assembled the greatest members of his stable to see a unique vision into flawless fruition. And through all those famous names, plenty of Jarmusch collaborators were omitted. RZA, Iggy Pop, Steve Buscemi, and Bill Murray round out the finest cast in anthology film history.
Stream it on Max
8 The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
With Tim Blake Nelson in the titular role, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018) features six standalone segments, starting with Buster himself. It’s a humorous tale, as is the next, which features James Franco. Poignance plays out from the start of the film’s third segment until the fireworks of the project’s overall finale, with famous performers donning their finest pairs of boots and blue jeans to see this anthology western into famous, critically acclaimed fruition.
![Ballad of Buster Scruggs star Time Blake Nelson plays guitar in the wild west](https://www.todaysauthormagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/AMOzzKOpi9xQQGeq3YWFDAcTBfj8v1.jpg)
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Why It’s So Great
Written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, there’s wit embedded deep within each exchange of dialogue, and the performers deliver their lines with keen discernment. Liam Neeson, Tom Waits, Zoe Kazan, and Brendan Gleeson are just a few of the other actors who shine as these quirky characters. And with perfect pacing, it’s worth noting that none of these stories overstay their welcome. Buster Scruggs is a fluid experience that only the Coens could’ve crafted.
Stream it on Netflix
7 Fantasia (1940)
Though rather rife with controversy, Disney’s animated musical Fantasia (1940) nonetheless consist of eight well-made segments that still hold great value in a modern landscape. This is a famous plot, with each story set to the backdrop of classical music. Leopold Stokowski conducted one of the more famous scores in animation, while the opening scene of the project itself also holds great esteem in the community overall.
Why It’s So Great
Live-action sequences of the real-life orchestra break these segments apart, with a sprawling score creating a tangible tone that proves powerful until the end of the film’s final segment. The animation style holds up, as well. And of course, Fantasia is among the most famous films ever made, regardless of structure or genre. It’s also held in high regard today by critics, and justifiably so.
Stream it on Disney Plus
6 I Am Cuba (1964)
Among the more divisive films on the list is I Am Cuba (1964), a political drama by Mikahil Kalatozov. An international co-production between Cuba and the Soviet Union, this film was actually poorly received by pundits of both home countries. And in terms of international releases: I Am Cuba went widely under the worldwide radar until the collapse of the USSR in 1992. And while it still holds meager name value in the grand scheme of anthology films, plenty of fans still rejoice today at the project’s restoration.
Why It’s So Great
With a spellbinding long take that required a team of technicians to assist the camera operator in filming tracking shots, this is among the most methodically brilliant projects of its kind. At least, from a perspective of behind-the-scenes filmmaking. Even then, each thespian performs valiantly enough to help Kalatozov see I Am Cuba — what many consider his magnum opus — come to life. Despite its controversies, it deserves more love today.
5 Tokyo! (2008)
Consisting of three segments, Tokyo! (2008) saw direction under three non-Japanese filmmakers: Michel Gondry and Leos Carax from France, along with Bong Joon-ho from South Korea. They each set their stories in Tokyo, and even filmed them on location in the capital city. But each of these tales also feature some of the strangest characters and plot points you’re ever likely to see, and those familiar with the aforementioned set of directors know that absurdity is their specialty.
Why It’s So Great
Industry pundits and film fans alike were fairly divided by the stories of both Gondry and Carax, while most saw light in the quality of Joon-ho’s. But they all hold up in strange yet beautiful ways, reaching a level of sheer poignance all throughout that few anthology films can claim. It’s also shocking, funny, and charming until its final frame. Regardless of genre, Tokyo is among the best.
Stream it on Prime Video, Tubi, and PlutoTV
4 Sin City (2005)
Directed by Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller from the latter’s original comic book series, Sin City (2005) is perhaps the most famous non-horror anthology film ever. One story herein follows an ex-convict’s revenge tour, while another journey is about a private investigator who gets involved in a street war between gangsters and prostitutes. There’s another segment about a young woman, a police officer, and a serial killer, and the whole way through, these characters are portrayed by well-known Hollywood performers.
Why It’s So Great
Bruce Willis, Jessica Alba, Rosario Dawson, Clive Owen, and Benicio del Toro give brilliant performances in Sin City. Their work was rivaled by a unique style of visuals and tandem sound design, along with one of the smartest scripts you’ll read about today. Across the board of storytelling, Sin City holds up wonderfully. And when it comes to anthology films, it’s undoubtedly one of the best.
Stream it on Max
3 Night on Earth (1991)
A unique, Jarmuschian insight into the human condition, Night on Earth (1991) follows taxi cab drivers from five sections of the world. From west to east, the audience travels with this impressive roster of memorable characters all across the globe, starting in Los Angeles. Up next is New York City, followed by Paris, then Italy, and finally Helsinki. And no matter the story, the cabbies are portrayed to perfection by their respective thespian.
![Winona Ryder in Night on Earth](https://www.todaysauthormagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Winona-Ryder-en-Night-on-Earth-Fine-Line-Features.jpg)
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These projects take a much heavier toll on the audience’s emotions than the respective protagonists charge their passengers.
Why It’s So Great
But what’s more is that each set of characters establish well-written rapports and share the most dulcet dialogue you’ll read about today, rendering Night on Earth among the most original and hilarious anthology films ever made. And given its numbers of success, it could easily be deemed underrated. But with charismatic performances, brilliant pacing, and an idiosyncratic brand of humor, Night on Earth holds up perfectly today.
Stream it on Max
2 Wild Tales (2014)
A Spanish-language black comedy, Wild Tales (2014) saw direction under Argentine filmmaker Damián Szifron. He also penned the script, with four of the film’s six stories being partly based on his real-life experiences. Each tale is set in a new location with a fresh set of characters at its core, and the overarching theme of the suppression of freedom in modern society links everything into the most successful film ever produced in Argentina.
Why It’s So Great
Every story featured herein flows seamlessly into the next, and they all leave just as lasting an impact as the one that came before. From the thrill of the film’s prologue to the absurdity of its finale, Wild Tales hits home across the board of emotion. And just as every anthology film should, it perfectly encompasses a grand idea while dividing each segment into an individual story. It involves a talented cast, as well, with Szifron directing the final product in flawless fashion.
Stream it on Starz
1 Mystery Train (1989)
Marking Jim Jarmusch’s third appearance on the list, Mystery Train (1989) renders that particular auteur the undeniable king of anthology films. It chronicles three separate sets of characters who take the titular train to Nashville, Tennessee. From there, a project of interconnected yet standalone stories unfold in mesmerizing fashion. The first journey chronicles a Japanese couple on vacation, while the second tells the tale of a widowed Italian stranded in the city.
![Bill Murray holds some flowers and looks like a chump](https://www.todaysauthormagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Broken-Flowers-1.jpg)
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Why It’s So Great
The final story features names like Joe Strummer and Steve Buscemi, with each player in Mystery Train hitting home across the board of emotional resonance. Thanks to a whip-smart script from Jarmusch, these stories tie together in more ways than one. And it’s executed so seamlessly that, until a gunshot rings out, each segment creates the illusion that you’re watching a feature film. This already makes the ranks of the greats for the allure of each story individually. But combined, Mystery Train results in perhaps the greatest anthology film ever.
Rent it on Prime Video