Unfamiliar with David Lynch? Here are his Top 5 must-see films and shows

Renowned filmmaker, writer, and artist David Lynch passed away on Thursday at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy that has inspired countless fans and artists worldwide. Despite his successful career spanning several decades, Lynch’s unique and often surreal style of filmmaking meant that he remained relatively unknown to many.

Throughout his career, Lynch received numerous accolades, but it wasn’t until 2019 that he finally received an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement. His influence on the world of filmmaking is undeniable, with his distinctive style inspiring the term “Lynchian” to describe a slow, creepy, and unsettling atmosphere that he expertly crafted in his works.

For those looking to explore Lynch’s filmography, here are five of his most well-known and highly acclaimed movies and TV shows:

1. Eraserhead (1977)
Lynch’s debut feature film, “Eraserhead,” is a hallucinatory journey into madness inspired by his own experiences as an art student in Philadelphia. The film follows a man caring for his deformed child in a bleak industrial setting, blending surrealism with body horror. Despite its initial lack of interest, “Eraserhead” has since become a cult classic and can be streamed on Apple TV or rented on YouTube.

2. The Elephant Man (1980)
“The Elephant Man” marked Lynch’s transition into mainstream filmmaking, telling the true story of John Merrick, a severely deformed man in Victorian London. The film explores themes of society’s treatment of outsiders and received eight Academy Award nominations, bringing Lynch into the mainstream conversation. “The Elephant Man” can be streamed on Apple TV.

3. Blue Velvet (1986)
Considered one of Lynch’s masterpieces, “Blue Velvet” delves into the dark underworld of a small town in North Carolina, blending mystery, romance, and surreal elements. The film was initially rejected by studios for its controversial content but has since become a critical darling. “Blue Velvet” can be streamed on Apple TV, MGM+, or rented on YouTube.

4. Twin Peaks (1990)
Lynch’s foray into television, “Twin Peaks,” is a surreal mystery crime series set in a fictional town where a high school student’s murder unravels hidden secrets. The show, known for its haunting score by Angelo Badalamenti, pushed the boundaries of television and became a cultural phenomenon. All three seasons of “Twin Peaks” can be streamed on Apple TV.

5. Mulholland Drive (2001)
Originally conceived as a TV pilot, “Mulholland Drive” was reworked into a feature film that challenges viewers with its dreamlike narrative and perplexing plot. The film, starring Naomi Watts, has been hailed as one of the greatest of all time and can be streamed on Crave and Starz.

David Lynch’s contributions to the world of cinema are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire filmmakers and artists for generations to come.