1

Harry Calahan - "Dirty Harry"

Image: Nejc Soklič

We’ll begin with one of the hardest cops on this list (and that’s saying a lot). Clint Eastwood’s career is filled with awards and recognition for his remarkable acting and filmmaking skills. Still, we can all agree that he will always be remembered for his no-nonsense, tough-as-nails portrayal of Inspector "Dirty" Harry Callahan.

Although Eastwood has played Callahan in five different films, his first appearance in the 1971 film "Dirty Harry" is perhaps the most memorable. After all, we can all remember that calm yet intimidating demeanor and iconic catchphrase, "Do you feel lucky, punk?"

2

John McClane - "Die Hard"

Image: Matt The Artist

We are not going to get into the timeless debate of whether "Die Hard" is a Christmas film, mostly because, whether this film gets you in the holiday spirit or not, no one can deny that Detective John McClane is a grade-A, certified tough cop.

Perhaps Bruce Willis’ most memorable performance, McClane has found himself in his fair share of dangerous situations throughout five films. However, perhaps the first "Die Hard" movie showcases this detective’s incredible antics : Trapped inside the unbreachable Nakatomi Tower, McClane makes it his job to deal with a small army of robbers by himself.

3

Lennie Briscoe - "Law and Order"

Image: Tingey Injury Law Firm

With over a thousand episodes and more than ten different series, it’s fairly easy to forget a character or two from the iconic "Law and Order" franchise. However, no true fan of this fantastic series will ever be able to forget Detective Lennie Briscoe, wonderfully portrayed by Jerry Orbach.

Starting in season 3, Briscoe was a seasoned and relatable detective focused on solving crimes in New York City. While Orbach sadly passed away in 2004, his legacy will forever live on whenever Detective Lennie Briscoe solves a case.

4

Frank Columbo - "Columbo"

Image: Volodymyr Hryshchenko

Actor Peter Falk’s devotion to Lieutenant Frank Columbo drove him to portray this legendary detective for over 40 years. Few TV characters are as instantly recognizable as Columbo, whether through his beige raincoat, cigar, and iconic catchphrase, "Just one more thing".

Frank Columbo truly cemented himself as one of the quintessential TV cops , allowing countless other characters to be born. Should you ever find yourself in the Hungarian city of Budapest, look for a bronze statue of Columbo, alongside his faithful basset hound simply named "Dog".

5

Jim Malone - The Untouchables

Image: Jennie Clavel

Sean Connery’s portrayal of Irish-American veteran cop Jim Malone earned him a well-deserved Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor . And, to be perfectly honest, Brian De Palma’s 1987 film "The Untouchables" would not be the same without Malone’s dry humor and detective skills.

Set in 1930s Chicago, "The Untouchables" describes the crusade embarked on by Prohibition agent Elliot Ness against legendary mobster Al Capone. The first addition to Ness’ team of "Untouchables", Malone contributes his expertise and strong moral compass to take down this crime kingpin.

6

Frank Bullit - "Bullitt"

Image: Jan-Philipp Thiele

There’s a reason why legendary actor Steve McQueen was known as "The King of Cool" : His charisma and unflinching determination truly earned him a place in film history. In that sense, his portrayal of San Francisco police detective Frank Bullitt helped build his legacy as one of Hollywood’s coolest actors.

In "Bullit", McQueen’s character pursues a group of mobsters guilty of killing a witness he was assigned to protect. And when we say "pursue", we say it in the most literal of meanings: This movie features one of the best chase scenes ever recorded, with Bullitt relentlessly driving his now-iconic green Ford Mustang.

7

Martin Riggs and Murtaugh - Lethal Weapon

Image: Will Porada

We know we might be cheating by including two characters in one entry, but we simply couldn’t separate this iconic crime-fighting duo . Mel Gibson and Danny Glover played this odd couple of detectives in four different films (with a fifth one in development), forever cementing themselves as the essential "buddy cop" two-man army.

Perhaps what’s more appealing about these characters is how opposite they seem to be : Riggs (portrayed by Gibson) is a young, reckless loose cannon, while Murtaugh is an older, more experienced detective. However different their methods might be, detectives Murtaugh and Riggs are truly a force to be reckoned with.

8

Sam Spade - "The Maltese Falcon"

Image: Michelle Ding

It’s no secret that Humphrey Boggart is considered royalty by the acting world. Among his many acting credits, private detective Sam Spade is credited with breathing new life into the detective genre. To this day, Boggart’s portrayal of Spade in "The Maltese Falcon" is considered the biggest influence on the archetypical private detective character.

Based on Dashiell Hammett’s novel of the same name, "The Maltese Falcon" features Spade’s misadventures with three untrustworthy adventurers seeking a valuable falcon statue . This detective’s dry wit and moral ambiguity are part of what makes Boggart’s performance so unforgettable.

9

Thomas Magnum - "Magnum, P.I."

Image: Philippe Bout

Up until now, we have focused on gritty detectives, characters with a slightly dark side and tormented by some aspects of their busy lives. So, why don’t we take a breather and focus on a lighter detective, a charming and witty investigator driving a red Ferrari around the sunny streets of Hawaii? Meet Thomas Magnum (full name Thomas Sullivan Magnum IV), Tom Selleck’s iconic character from "Magnum P.I."

Many consider "Magnum P.I." to be the ultimate 80s show and, while that title might go to the final entry of this article, there’s no denying that this adventurous detective has become an essential pop culture icon.

10

Sonny Crocket & Rico Tubbs - "Miami Vice"

Image: Ussama Azam

Speaking of the 80s, how could we reference this wonderful decade without talking about the most stylish detective duo in history? "Miami Vice" introduced the world to the crime-fighting adventures of James "Sonny" Crockett and Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs, two undercover detectives hellbent on battling Miami’s seedy underbelly.

Legend has it that, during a brainstorming session, a producer simply wrote "MTV Cops" on a memo, without knowing that this piece of paper would be the jumping point of one of the most iconic shows in history. Don Johnson’s portrayal of Detective Crockett is particularly remembered for its impact on 80s culture.

1

Yankees vs. Red Sox

Image: Chanan Greenblatt

This feud has colored baseball for more than a century. The teams clashed often in the early 1900s, and the sale of Babe Ruth to New York only fanned the flames. Generations of fans have passed down the lore, and every game still feels like a chapter in a never-ending story.

2

Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi

Image: Nik A.

The "Cola Wars" picked up steam in the late 20th century with taste tests, jingles, and flashy commercials. Each brand tried to outdo the other in ads and sponsorships. Many households still swear one tastes better, even if most folks can barely tell the difference in a blind sip.

3

Lakers vs. Celtics

Image: Tim Hart

When basketball fans talk about greatness, these two names pop up right away. Their battles in the 60s, 80s, and 2000s created unforgettable moments. From Magic and Bird to Kobe and Garnett, each era brought its own flavor. Even non-fans recognize the spark between these teams.

4

Democrats vs. Republicans

Image: Bruno Ngarukiye

The nation’s two major parties have been sparring since the mid-1800s. Their disagreements shape elections, public debates, and dinner conversations across the country. While their views often pull in different directions, both sides trace their roots deep into American history.

5

Michigan vs. Ohio State

Image: Jakob Rosen

College football’s "The Game" is a yearly event that can tilt an entire season. Families in the Midwest grow up picking a side before they can spell the names. The rivalry took shape in the late 1800s and still ends with dramatic finishes, loud crowds, and plenty of bragging rights.

6

Mickey Mouse vs. Bugs Bunny

Image: steven lozano

Disney and Warner Bros. shaped our childhood. Mickey brought gentle charm while Bugs introduced quick wit and a wink at the audience. Their studios battled for box office success, theme park magic, and Saturday morning loyalties, giving generations a favorite to root for.

7

Duke vs. North Carolina

Image: Markus Spiske

Just eight miles separate the schools, and that short drive holds decades of college basketball tension. Their first meeting was back in 1920, and each season brings new storylines. The noise inside their arenas can practically shake the floor when these two square off.

8

Giants vs. Dodgers

Image: Hongbin

This rivalry began in New York before both teams headed west in the 1950s. The move did not cool things down one bit. Whether in Brooklyn and Manhattan or Los Angeles and San Francisco, these clubs have carried the same competitive spark for well over a hundred years.

9

Hamilton vs. Jefferson

Image: Sudan Ouyang

These two founding figures clashed over just about everything. Hamilton leaned toward strong federal power while Jefferson preferred a lighter touch from the central government. Their debates set the stage for questions that still guide the country’s political landscape.

10

Marvel vs. DC

Image: Rachit Khurana

Comic book fans have compared these two universes for generations. Marvel’s heroes often feel grounded and human, while DC characters carry mythic, larger-than-life qualities. Their films, shows, and comics compete for audiences who proudly cheer for their chosen side.

1

One World Trade Center

Image: David Vives

At a symbolic 1,776 feet, One World Trade Center proudly stands as America’s tallest building . Rising from the ashes of tragedy, this New York City landmark is a testament to resilience and unity.

Completed in 2014, it has been affectionately nicknamed the "Freedom Tower." Its sleek design features reflective glass that mirrors the sky, creating an ever-changing facade. The building houses offices, observation decks, and a museum dedicated to 9/11. Simply beautiful!

2

Central Park Tower

Image: Mason C

Central Park Tower, the world’s tallest residential building , reaches 1,550 feet into Manhattan’s skyline. Completed in 2020, it’s sometimes called the "Billionaires’ Row Tower" for its ultra-luxury apartments.

This architectural masterpiece offers jaw-dropping views of Central Park and beyond. It’s not just tall; it’s opulent, with a private club, pools, and even its own ballroom. If you’ve ever dreamed of living among the clouds, this is the place to do it (if you can afford it, of course).

3

Willis Tower

Image: Margo

Chicago’s Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, was the world’s tallest building for 25 years (we did say there was some friendly competition going on!). Its 1,451-foot height dominates the skyline and has been a beacon of innovation since 1973.

The building’s unique design uses nine bundled tubes for extra stability against those famous Chicago winds. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass box extending from the 103rd floor, for a heart-pounding view. A true Midwestern marvel!

4

111 West 57th Street

Image: Parrish Freeman

Known as the "Steinway Tower," this ultra-skinny skyscraper is as much art as architecture. Rising 1,428 feet above Manhattan, it’s the thinnest skyscraper in the world and the fourth tallest in our country.

Its design nods to New York’s Jazz Age glamour, blending terracotta details with modern engineering. Completed in 2022, it houses luxury apartments that come with breathtaking views and equally jaw-dropping price tags.

5

One Vanderbilt

Image: Lukas Kyzur

Standing 1,401 feet tall, One Vanderbilt is a relatively new addition to New York City’s skyline. Completed in 2020, it’s located right next to Grand Central Terminal .

The building’s futuristic design is matched by its cutting-edge features, including Summit One Vanderbilt, an immersive observation experience. Its elevators take you to the top in a flash, and once you’re there, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city.

6

432 Park Avenue

Image: Miikka A.

At 1,396 feet, 432 Park Avenue is all about modern simplicity . Completed in 2015, it is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.

ts grid-like windows give it a timeless look, but don’t be fooled—the apartments inside scream luxury. With amenities like private dining rooms and a spa, residents live the high life, pun intended! Love it or hate it, you can’t miss it.

7

Trump International Hotel and Tower

Image: Kenny Eliason

Chicago’s Trump Tower, standing 1,388 feet tall, is a gleaming addition to the city’s skyline . Completed in 2009, its reflective surface mirrors the surrounding beauty of the Chicago River.

This skyscraper combines luxury residences, a hotel, and fine dining. Its signature feature is the outdoor terrace, which offers stunning views of the Windy City.

8

30 Hudson Yards

Image: Frank Nürnberger

At 1,268 feet, 30 Hudson Yards is the centerpiece of New York’s futuristic Hudson Yards development.

Completed in 2019, it’s home to The Edge, the Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor sky deck . The building boasts offices, dining, and even direct access to a luxury mall. Its sleek design symbolizes the city’s constant evolution. It has it all—just like the city itself!

9

Empire State Building

Image: Chris Barbalis

This may not be the tallest, but it certainly is one of the most iconic! The Empire State Building, at 1,250 feet, is a timeless symbol of New York City.

Completed in 1931 during the Great Depression , it was once the world’s tallest building. Its Art Deco design and iconic silhouette have graced countless movies and postcards. The city views it offers are simply unbeatable. No trip to New York is complete without a visit.

10

Bank of America Tower

Image: David Vives

Rising 1,200 feet in Midtown Manhattan, the Bank of America Tower is a green marvel. It was completed in 2010 and is one of the world’s most eco-friendly skyscrapers .

It uses innovative technology to reduce energy consumption and even collects rainwater. With its sharp, crystalline design, it looks as modern as its environmental features. This tower shows that sustainability and style can go hand in hand. Who knew going green could look so good?

11

St. Regis Chicago

Image: Andrew LaDeur

At 1,191 feet, the St. Regis Chicago adds a touch of elegance to the city’s skyline. Completed in 2020, its design is inspired by a flowing river , with undulating glass panels that shimmer in the sunlight. It’s a mix of hotel and residential spaces, with luxury oozing from every corner.

The building’s unique silhouette stands out in the architectural playground that is Chicago. If beauty were a competition, this skyscraper would be a top contender.

12

Aon Center

Image: Erol Ahmed

The Aon Center, at 1,136 feet, is a classic fixture in Chicago’s skyline. Built in 1973, it was originally clad in white marble, though granite replaced it later for durability. Its clean, rectangular design exudes timeless elegance.

Home to offices and observation areas , it’s a favorite among architecture lovers. You know how they are all about simplicity— the ultimate form of sophistication!