In an industry where artists rely on investments from financiers to realize their singular visions, it is vitally important that filmmakers make a sparkling first impression with their debut movies. As a result, first films are often creative toe dips; they’re managed risks that show just enough promise to merit a more sizable investment the next time out. The films on this list did not go that route. So with that in mind, let’s celebrate the twenty-five most audacious first movies ever made.