The link between Chaplin and Kubrick.
This is one of the best films ever made. (If you think this is the best film ever, I would not argue.)
It combines the uninhibited 'sentimental' nature of Chaplin's films and the technical brilliance that Kubrick's films post Dr Strangelove would achieve, and I dare say that even though Chaplin with Modern Times and Kubrick with 2001 have matched this film's greatness, neither director would have been capable enough to combine both and make 8½ which is a film that makes you smile uncontrollably as well as make your jaws drop out of awe.
The only one that comes close is Woody Allen with Annie Hall and Stardust Memories.