I spent some time studying film in college before ultimately switching majors—to a much more pragmatic journalism/sociology combo—so the film geek in me was pretty excited to read the newest Sight & Sound poll.

Taken every 10 years, this survey asks professionals and critics to vote on the best movie ever made. Citizen Kane has been tops since 1962, but as revealed on The Telegraph, A.V. Club and other entertainment blogs, Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo is now regarded by the majority as the greatest film. Other picks include 2001: A Space Odyssey (my pick from the list) at number five, and film-school standby 8 1/2 at number 10. Surprised?

Plus: Our editors play the desert-island game and choose their favorite films »