5) The Silence of the Lambs (Jonathan Demme)- 1991
4) Jaws (Steven Spielberg)- 1975
3) The Sixth Sense (M. Night Shamylan)- 1999
2) Psycho (Alfred Hitchcock)- 1960
1) The Exorcist (William Friedkin)- 1973 The Exorcist still scares, shocks, and disturbs audiences worldwide just as much as it did nearly forty years ago. The film makes your heart race, but it does not rely solely on physical terror. What really frightens me is the religious/spiritual challenge of movie; it made me convinced that I would be possessed by the devil. I can’t say the same of any other film!
Yeah, y’all know me, still the same OG, but I been low key… on my list of favorites that is. Yeah, y’all know me. You know how much I love to conjure up these little lists of my favorite this and that. Well, today kids you are in for a (trick or?) treat. Last time, I posted my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE albums of all times and since I am an ultra movie geek just like I am an ultra music geek the following is a list of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE films! One exception. Last time my list consisted of my top 25 ABSOLUTE favorite albums, this time I am counting down from 50 to 1! Same rules apply- ABSOLUTE means truly special films for me, so there are movies that I love and consider favorites, but they will not appear here because they do not affect me nearly enough as these babies do. In other words, with these guys I go out of my way to tell everybody about them and encourage discussion, debate even regarding them any chance I get. They pitch a tent, kick back and relax in my cerebral, waiting to float down to my vocal chords and become the center of attention whenever I can find someone that is willing to have their head talked off in a cinematic bull session. No bullshit. So, few films can do that for me- I have to make the distinction between these masterpieces and other fine works of art that I adore, but simply do not make the cut. Briefly, I have noticed as I am sure you will too, several trends amongst this selection: humor, often dark and/or over the the top, controversial, ridiculous humor; one can never go wrong with pure ridiculocity. Anyway… other similar elements include heavily dialogue and character based screenplays, coming of age/youth oriented themes, and as I have stated in previous posts the most crucial factor for me, vastly memorable features- whether you want to remember them or not. Now, not all of these trends appear in each flick, but they make their presence clear. So, here is the point when you say to yourself “get to the fucking list.” Alright ramblers, let’s get rambling!
Cue the badass music… I am thinking Glassjaw- You Think You’re John Fucking Lennon. James’ GJ piece got me in the mood! Oh and to answer your question Darryl, yes I do.
P.S. This is a list of favorites not the best films ever made. So, do not comment that this is “wrong” or “this shouldn’t be on here” you will just make yourself look like an asshole.
50) The Silence of the Lambs (Jonathan Demme)- 1991
Silence takes the typical detective story and gives it a good spin on its head- everything is out of the ordinary. We have seen this story before young detective (Jodie Foster) makes her name hunting down a well sought after criminal (Ted Levine) with the help of another criminal (Anthony Hopkins, except with this terrifying tale, the criminal is a disturbing serial killer that tortures and murders college girls and uses their flesh for his own attire (to achieve the appearance of a woman to boot). And the other criminal is not just some scumbag, run of the mill character, no, Dr. Hannibal Lector is a cold, calculating villain, one of the most unsettling characters in all of horror and the performance of a lifetime from Sir Anthony Hopkins. Perhaps what I love the most about SOL is the suspense; Hannibal’s mind games for Clarice leave you as quizzical as she is.
49) Sixteen Candles (John Hughes)- 1984
For most people, especially girls, turning sixteen is a wonderful time we would love to experience over and over again… well except for Samantha (Molly Ringwald) who painfully waits each agonizing second for the special day to come to an end. This is classic John Hughes: over the top, exaggerated scenarios about the highs and lows of being a teenager. Hughes takes every little nuance of high school life and exaggerates it to the extreme i.e. the nerds are not your average band geeks, instead of harmonicas hanging from their heads they have devices made to detect extra terrestrials (especially female extra terrestrials :). This is vintage John Hughes- just pure fun, admittedly a bit more style than substance, but it’s all good. One of those films, seemingly more apparent before the age of political correctness, where general senses of morality and reality are suspended and replaced with classic comedy. Seriously this is one of the funniest films I have ever seen.
48) Welcome to the Dollhouse (Todd Solondz)- 1996
If you thought Samantha had a rough time because everyone forgot it was her birthday, then you would be in tears for Dawn (Heather Matarazzo) in Welcome to the Dollhouse as she is tortured by her family and fellow middle school students on a daily basis. Solondz presents all of this bedlam in a relatively light tone, since you know the subjects of rape and abduction are such light topics. For fans of savagely dark comedies this is a must see. For further reading, here is my review of WTDH: https://klyam.com/2010/09/05/classic-film-review-welcome-to-the-dollhouse/
47) High Fidelity (Stephen Frears)- 2000
Top Five Reasons Why I Love This Film. 5) The characters, lovable, obsessive, music nerds 4) Dialogue/appreciation for music and what makes music good or bad 3) The music itself/the soundtrack 2) John Cusack’s performance 1) The humor- not in your face, mile a minute jokes, but rather smooth, witty, and often esoteric writing. For more on HF read my review: https://klyam.com/2010/10/01/mini-classic-film-reviews-detroit-rock-city/.
46) Gummo (Harmony Korine)- 1997
I could talk about this film for days on end. It simply has that effect on the viewer, whether you find it pleasing or repulsive (perhaps both) you are left with a heavy impression that irritates you worse than that herpes sore on your anus. After seeing this for the first time, I had to tell everyone about it, I still do! Gummo banks on imagery, leaving life lasting images in your mind, probably against your will. Simply put, this flick is a collection of highly memorable scenes, images, and lines. Check out https://klyam.com/2010/06/21/chris-on-5/ and https://klyam.com/2010/04/28/classic-film-reviw-gummo/
45) American Psycho (Mary Harron)- 2000
Ho Ho Ho, look what we have here. If you think you have seen some real sick American Psychos, then check out Christian Bale in this 2000 adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ controversial novel of the same name. Throw 80s pop hits, dark, dark humor, and merciless killing in a blender and you have a wonderfully bizarre film that entices just as it offends. Here’s a past review- https://klyam.com/2010/09/27/mini-classic-film-reviews-thank-you-for-smoking/
44) The Sixth Sense (M. Night Shamylan)- 1999
Picture being nine years old in a dark theater watching this horror masterpiece. Yeah, so thank the heavens I merely came close to shitting myself. SS terrified my tender little soul to the point of me hating the movie. Seriously, for years I detested this film because it scared me so much. Which, by the way, few films ever have scared me and rarely am I as affected by a piece of art as I was with this creepy flick. It haunted me for weeks, sleepless weeks! The ghosts represented something more than simply objects that are there to jump out at you; sure they scare us, but Shamylan offers us a far greater psychological trip than a few shocking moments here and there. We question what happens when we die and more importantly why? Being a kid, this was too heavy for me. Of course some folks out there probably eschewed this aspect of the film and merely enjoyed it for its shrills and thrills, which is totally fine. But, for me, even at my young age, I had to reflect on my own life- I’d say SS was the first film to make me think, to challenge me… and yeah scare the shit out of me too! A few years later I watched it again and fell in love with it. Not finding it as disturbing, but all the more intriguing. And anyone that has seen this can never forget the incredible ending- the greatest twist ending in the history of film. Hands down. If I was a little bit older, I am sure I would have gizzed in my pants just like The Lonely Island guys.
43) Thank You For Smoking (Jason Reitman)- 2005
If there is anything I have ever learned from studying politics and the media it is that every issue is spun from all sides and at the end of the day the issue itself is frivolous what really matters is personal interests. This film is not about whether smoking is good or bad, it is about the industry of spin and how the mechanics of spin can make that decision for you to satisfy their own interests. A great, unique comedy that is a breath of fresh air for a genre built on retarded romance and cliche after cliche. Review: https://klyam.com/2010/09/27/mini-classic-film-reviews-thank-you-for-smoking/
42) Happiness (Todd Solondz)- 1998
Do you remember that conversation you and your dad had about masturbation? I certainly hope not. But, if you need a gross reminder then toss in this morbid comedy from director Todd Solondz. As usual, Solondz takes the awkward and revels in it, instead of alleviating you from the situation on screen he stays with it until you feel as maladroit as the characters. With disturbing content such as child rape and suicide, amongst others, it must baffle folks when they hear that people think of this as a comedy. Sure, it is not a comedy in the traditonal sense of the word, but it is not a drama. Solondz has removed the entire emotion from this story that there is nothing left to do but laugh, even when the subject matter is anything but funny. This is a grower not a shower as Anthony Fantano would comment, if you do not like or dare I say “get” this then give it a few more views and perhaps you will feel comfortable enough to chuckle or at least appreciate its brilliance.
41) Jaws (Steven Spielberg)- 1975
The Greatest Popcorn Movie of All Time! Seriously, Jaws
emodies entertainment, it serves merely as tool to excite, frighten, and entice you. That is it. No social commentary of any sort, but that is okay here. What this film contains is precisely what most adventure/thriller/horror/action films abolutely lack-tremendous suspense, a massive (figuratively and literally) conflict, well-developed characters, and above all phenomenal score from John Williams, arguably his best. The fact that we cannot see the shark is what scares us the most. What lies beneath the ocean could be anything; our imagination is more horrific than anything a screenwriter could dream up.
40) Fast Times At Ridgemont High (Amy Heckerling)- 1982
One of the quintessential Teen Films cinema has to offer. This flick represents everything great about said genre: the fashion styles, the music, everything 80s-almost to the point that this looks like a retrosective film a la Dazed and Confused (1993), but it is not (if you check the year above). It is like a slice of 1980s teen culture in one film. From the start, we see those wonderful shots of all the various characters doing their thing (which usually tells us a little something about the characters themselves) at the local shopping mall to the Go-Gos “We Got the Beat,” this tells us that this is what is cool, these people are cool, this film is cool. As the title suggests this film moves rather quickly in contrast to the slow, layed back pace of Dazed. Just like in real life, it seems as though everything from boyfriends to bongs comes and goes so fast. An enjoyable look at high school and teen life as well as a rare instance of Sean Penn in a comedic role as the immortal stoner Jeff Spicolli. See ya later bud!
39) Edward Scissorhands (Tim Burton)- 1990
Tim Burton essentially presents us with the hip, goth version of the Jesus story. He (Edward that is) comes to Earth, offers us gifts and ubiquitous kindness and only asks for love and friendship in return. When we are done using him we cast him aside for not conforming to our standards, eventually driving him out of society. Ahh, but he lives on forever through the beautiful snow he creates; in other words he is always with us even though we do not deserve his love. Okay, so a chirstian take on the film haha. Few films touch me as much as this, even fewer “family” films. Some criticized Edward for not climaxing with the typical, everything works out, wrap up Hollywood style/fairy tale ending, but this what I specifically applaud it for; the movie is much more than the former and deserves an honest ending. It works on various emotions, sometimes funny, always endearing, and overall mesmerizing.
38) The Breakfast Club (John Hughes)- 1985
What else can I say about this movie that you have not thought yourself? Everyone (seemingly) has seen John Hughes’ magnum opus and overwhelmingly adore it. This may be the “greatest teen” film and I think it stands out as one of the finest examples of said genre, but what I really love about BC is how it expands beyond those boundries. Most teen movies stick with teen issues, instead Hughes explores how these five diverse individuals represent the varying differences in class, social status, home life/background, and how this affects their perception of each other. In the end, they all come to agree that they want to be nothing like their parents (even if it is possibly inevitable); out with the old, in with the new.
37) The Terminator (James Cameron)- 1984
As you notice from reading this list, I am not a big fan of action films. I grew up with The Terminator films and I have always loved them. The story is excellent, real simple and to the point. In many ways, it is set up like a horror flick, adding the darker aesthetic to this movie as opposed to its sequels. The Terminator is a mass killing machine with one mission: murder Sarah Conor and he will wipe out anyone that stands in his way. Great set up. Classic story, terrific action executed at just the right times, constantly keeping me invested. By comparison, most smash em up, throw this grenade, blow up that building, action flicks are too stale and uninventive for my taste, but this works and has been a favorite of mine since childhood.
36) Terminator 2: Judgment Day (James Cameron) 1991
As far as sequels go, this is definitely in the top three. T2, another great flick from my childhood. This changed the special effects game forever, and I am not one to really give two splats of shit about special effects, but you have to acknowledge how cool they were/are and how grounbreaking it was at the time. Bottom line, T-1000 is the most badass villian ever.
35) Donnie Darko (Richard Kelly)- 2001
Donnie has the rare privilege of being one of the few things that makes me mildily interested in the world of science. This film seems to have it all: cult teen flick mashed with bizarre David Lynchy undertones, it’s ominous, entertaining, humorous, and extremely well-written. The dialogue is fresh and sounds very natural. Kelly effectively uses the time period in place (late 1980s) to tell his story, masterfully connecting it to various aspects of pop culture. That is what I love the most about Donnie, but one can also find exceptional fantasy/sci-fi and drama. It is an enigmatic film, no doubt, but you do not have to totally understand it to appreciate it- with most films like this that is not the case and I assure you after repeated viewings you will most likely find it easier to grasp.
34) The Dark Knight (Christopher Nolan)- 2008
Returing to an earlier film on this list, I pointed toJaws (1975) as the classic “popcorn” movie, if I had to choose a modern film to pass the buttery torch to it would be Gummo (1997). Haha, of course not. Naturally, I am speaking of DK since this is written under its heading. DK is the ultimate super hero/comic book movie with memorable scene after memorable scene. The flow is incredible, you never feel even slightly bored and after watching this movie I always admire how this is a quality we seldom see even in above average films.
33) American Beauty (Sam Mendes)- 1999
I can say with no exaggeration that this is truly a beautiful film, perhaps if it was an hour and a half of a plastic bag blowing in the wind it would be even prettier, but we work with what we have. A great depiction of suburban life in modern America; a close look at one family and how they are, as Kevin Spacey’s character would say, “A commercial for how normal we are when we’re anything but.”
32) Stand By Me (Rob Reiner)- 1986
Everyone’s favorite go camping in the woods to discover the dead body of a twelve year old boy before the rival gang finds it movie! It is funny how for such a lighthearted film the story is a bit gruesome in nature. Thanks to the work of Rob Reiner and the talented young actors in this film instead of macabre we receive a heartfelt quest for one’s self in 1950s America.
31) Kids (Larry Clark)- 1995
Ahh quite the opposite of Stand By Me (1986), these kids are rude, crude and downright vile. If you are looking for a morality play, look elsewhere. Larry Clark brings Harmony Korines screenwriting debut to life in brutal, relentless, an honest look at youth in urban America. There is no character I can relate to, every character is either a total scumbag or associated with total scumbags. Some of the ladies are okay people, but mostly just kids you pitty at best. For most viewers this drives them away, but for me, it makes it all the more fascinating. I love the no holds barred partying, the immature and completely vulgar dialogue (the scene where Telly and Casper are walking down the street discussing Telly’s just minutes earlier sexual experience with a twelve year old girl is one of the finest pieces of dialogue imo), not to mention the gifted camerawork of Larry Clark. Even fifteen years later this will shock most people and rightfully so, in fact, if you are not alarmed by the behavior portrayed in the film then you are far closer to the characters than I would ever desire to be. The soundtrack is exceptional and consists of some of my favorites; the last few moments are chilling, just before we hear Sebadoh’s “Spoiled” with the credits, an apropos tune for the time- Barlow moans “spoiled children soon too fall.” I couldn’t agree more.
30) Natural Born Killers (Oliver Stone)- 1994
Good old NBK. This film hit me like a ton of bricks. Sent me flying off my rocker. Drowned me in a sea of blasphemy :), if you will. Upon first viewing at the age of fifteen I was convinced the American Media is totally fucked and as disturbing as this film itself. Which, by the way, this is a trip- a visceral, psychedelic experience. I dig the merciless satire, especially the sitcom/laugh track scene, classic. Violence in the media does not create violent little creatures, but it does make them famous!
29) Forrest Gump (Robert Zemeckis)- 1994
This list is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to find next! Forrest tells the story of America through its innocent title character, giving us one of the most memorable movies for generations to come. I love catching each and every reference to American history/culture as some of them are funnier than others. I always get a chuckle when Forrest apologizes for “ruining your Black Panther PARTY.”
28) Requiem For A Dream (Darren Aronofsky)- 2000
I think its great that kids see this and think “I’ll never touch heroin.” Fantastic! but this work of art is far more than just a massive Drug Free America ad. Aronofsky uses drugs to illustrate the power of addiction and how it can enhance our insecurities, pushing us as far away from our dreams, our loved ones, and what we know as reality.
27) TIE: American Graffiti (George Lucas)- 1973 and Animal House (John Landis)- 1978
Both are amazing films about young people in 1962, living life to the fullest, before they grow up and forget how to have fun. The Rock and Roll was great, the cars were nice, and the kids were experimenting. AG is the night before college and AH is college itself, unsurprisingly, the latter is the funnier and lighter of the two; AG represents all the fears and insecurties you have when you are young, worried about your future. AH says let’s put that aside for a while and party hardy while we can.
Each is the master of their repsective subgenres; AG is the quintessential teen movie (well, with one exception that we will get to later) and AH is the quintessential college movie, all others are wannabees even if they are decent bees they still do not come close.
26) The Graduate (Mike Nichols)- 1967
Yet, another flick about young people. This film sums up that feeling of being a confused young lad on the brink of the “real world” and wanting nothing more than to sit back, relax, have a beer, and sleep with your parents’ best friend, it’s natural, we all experience it. That is until you discover you really are in love with their daughter. Here is a fabulous example of the generation gap: the parents (WWII stalwarts) and the kids (Post-War Baby Boomers, Rock and Rollers via the fantastic pop psychedelia of Simon and Garunkel). Best work for all involved.
24) Psycho (Alfred Hitchcock)- 1960
The Master of Suspense at his most masterful. For those who have not seen this or do not know the ending, I envy you. Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins) is in my top five favorite characters; this mama’s boy means business. By watching this movie we get to see the psychology of the mentally depraved and at the same time we can hav fun with the sheer shrills and thrills that make this the classic that it is.
23) Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Mel Stuart)- 1971
I loved the novel, but I needed more. This is one of my favorite adaptations; Stuart simply brings all of Dahl’s terrific imagination to life. Take for example, the final scene: the image of them floating in the air balloon all over the city to the oompa loompa music leaves me with a lasting image and has always given me a powerful feeling of warmth I do not feel very often.
22) The Wizard of Oz (Victor Fleming and others)- 1939
21) It’s A Wonderful Life (Frank Capra)- 1946
Another film that always puts a smile on my face. Naturally, best around Christmas time, but it goes so far beyond that. This serves as a constant reminder that for most of us life truly is a miracle and tis a hell of a lot better than being dead. As others have pointed out, this film shows us how each and every person greatly affects the lives of those around them. In more recent years I have come to appreciate and admire the chracter of George Bailey (James Stewart) for always sacrificing his own dreams to help out those who are not as privileged as him. At any point, he could have gone off to college or traveled the world like he envisioned as a child, but when his family, friends, and fellow townspeople needed him, he was there. Seldom, do we see this kind of hero represented on the silver screen.
20) A Clockwork Orange (Stanley Kubrick)- 1971
Clockwork is the film your parents forbid you from watching. That strange British weirdo bizarro Kubrick mess. It is that “fucked up movie you gotta see” as some young people might label it. Sure, it is queer in the traditional sense of the word, certainly horrifying, and yes may make you queasy. But, behind all of the pandemonium there is a serious masterpiece that begs your attention. Clockwork entices us with its lurid content and imagery, which I love by the way, but acts as a satire of broken down society. Alex (Malcolm McDowell) is our juvenile delinquent, but this cat makes James Dean look like an altar boy. Alex tortures, rapes, and even kills- and yet he is just a school boy (15-18). He is a perverse character that we somehow find ourselves attracted to; we are jealous of his social freedom. Ultimately, we realize that the very institutions we trust in preventing such gargoyles as Alex do not really care whether he lashes out or not-one day he is a menace, the next day he is a model citizen, whichever helps said institutions maintain their control over the rest of the populace.
17) Good Will Hunting (Gus Van Sant)- 1997
As a whole this is simply a brilliant film that clearly connects with many viewers, but specifically there are a few personal connections for me: 1) Boston- though I am from Wakefield, a suburb of Boston, the familiarity of the setting has always made me feel closer to this film and the characters. Most movies shot in Boston do not have this effect on me, but for whatever reason Gus Van Sant selected all of the right shots. The shot where Will is on the subway and then the camera suddenly flashes to various clips of locations in Boston including Fenway Park is one of my all time favorite shots, for some reason it has always stuck with me. The city is used for more than just a physical setting, but rather a state of mind for Will- what he is comfortable with and as a viewer I share in this comfort- it is all he truly knows of this great, big world. I too have seen very little outside Massachusetts. 2) The music of Elliott Smith- this film would not be the same without Elliott. It is impossible for me not to see images of GWH when I listen to say “Between the Bars” or “Say Yes,” being a massive fan of Smith’s work this has always struck me- his music is not simply there as a sountrack to the film, it flows with it and speaks to the audience, it often conveys what is happening on screen. In “Say Yes,” Smith says “I’m in love with a girl…” as we see Will (Matt Damon) and Skylar (Minnie Driver) share their first kiss. 3) The 90s- for some films, particularly those I watched as a child in the 90s, they remind me of the decade and my early childhood years. I always feel nostalgic whenever I see this.
16) Boogie Nights (Paul Thomas Anderson)- 1997
Let us be clear here, this is not a porno. Good, glad we got that. I cannot stand it when people write this off as trash because the subject matter is perceived as sleazy. This country is so prudish it is absurd. Do you hear anyone call The Godfather (1972) a snuff film because it deals with crime and murder, I think not and rightfully so. Well, the same should apply to Boogie. Along, with Goodfellas (1990) this is one of the greatest character(s) studies over a period of time. This film is only literally about the pornography industry. It is really about people, just like you and me, human beings over a period of time, how they rise, fall, and try to stand up again, if they are not already dead. PTA offers us a fascinating look at a wonderful ensemble of colorful characters as they struggle to love themselves for who they are or who they think they are. Throughout the story the characters battle with their self-image versus others’ perception of themselves. In other words, “are we really the people we think we are?” A powerful question all of us have to face at some point in our lives.
15) Back to the Future (Robert Zemeckis)- 1985
Do you remember when you were a little kid and there was always that one movie your parents could toss in to get you to shut up? BTTF was that video for me. I have probably seen this movie eighty times, if not more. I am positive you will be hard pressed to find many people that deteste if not simply feel indifferent to this film. Perhaps some artsy fartys autuers fuckers out there, but generally speaking, this film is loved by most folks. It encompasses everything great about adventure movies that sadly most features fail to contain. This film has it all: action, comedy, romance, an original story, memorable characters, quotable lines, and best of all a heart. Not to get to wimpy on you, but seriously, you get the feeling that BTTF is more than just a fun ride. It flawlessly executes all the above and then some, entertainment at its finest.
13) Trainspotting (Danny Boyle)- 1996
When I describe this as a comedy I seem to get quizzical looks. True, it is a dark comedy and quite dark in many scenes, but nonetheless it is undeniably a comedy. Heroin is horrible and the film never depicts it as other wise, but Trainspotting perfectly mixes this disturbing element with UK absurdist humor and a fantastic soundtrack. The characters have flaire and despite how big of arseholes they can be we find that we enjoy spending time with these low life junkies. This film makes you think, laugh, and most definitely cringe.
12) Goodfellas (Martin Scorcesse)- 1990 Goodfellas has the wonderful privilege of being the second greatest mob movie of all time. We’ll get to number one later (seems pretty obvious). Anyway, GF is modern, it abandons the mob/mafia set up we are used to. The soundtrack is modern- Rock and Pop hits, we even hear Sid Vicious’ version of “My Way” over the credits! Modern themes in the crime life- cocaine, like its counterpart Scarface (1983), but I prefer this film when it comes to the gangster lifestyle. We watch Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) grow up and achieve what he perceives as the American Dream- Power. Decadence. He has it all. But, worst of all, he ends up as a regular schmuck, a kid like you and me, if you will- worse than being dead.
11) Taxi Driver (Martin Scorcesse)- 1976
In terms of character driven films you would be hard pressed to find anything close to Taxi Driver. De Niro’s performance as Travis Bickle is frightening. Bickle is all around us and could be us. He is every young man at some point in their lives. Alienated, frustrated, and ready to let go. Only difference… when his short fuse blows he is determined to violently lash out against the society that has betrayed him.
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10) One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (Milos Forman)- 1975
9) Garden State (Zach Braff)- 2004
Only second to Juno (2007) for my favorite film of the 2000s. Zach Braff makes the film of his career (most likely): fantastic cinemetography, believable characters, and an incredible soundtrack. The music is placed so delicately over every scene, as I am told Braff chose every song himself. Perhaps my favorite is the inclusion of The Shins’ “New Slang,” we hear this as Large (Braff) is transitioning from a character made of stone to a new man feeling emotion once again. The Graduate (1967) of our generation.
8) American History X (Tony Kaye)- 1998
Out of all the films I have seen dealing with racial hatred/ignorance this is by far the most emotional. Our main characters are neo-nazi skinheads and we see how they blindly and desperately become members of such white power gangs to fit into a society that has long abandon them. Despiter their intelligence, they become consumed with so much hatred (and confusion) that they lose sight of what is important- keeping their family together, which is essentially what the characters desire the most. In the end, destroying their family is precisely what occurs. This film is not preachy in any way and like similar films does not focus on minor prejudices that all of us have, rather it depicts the horrible, misguided world simple minded bigotry can lead to.
7) Fight Club (David Fincher)- 1999
The first rule of writing a review about Fight Club is you do not talk about Fight Club. The second rule of writing a review about Fight Club is you do not talk about Fight Club. Well, I guess I cannot talk about FC. Y’all just have to check out my Classic Film Review of FC.
6) The Godfather (Francis Ford Coppola)- 1972
If this was a list of the Greatest Films of All Time, then The Godfather would have to be number one, hands down. This picture is flawless as everyone knows. There is not much more I can say in a few lines to truly give this epic masterpiece justice; one piece of advive SEE IT if you have not already.
5) Reservoir Dogs (Quentin Tarantino)- 1992
Ahh the film that started it all for Mr.Tarantino. Easily one of most badass debuts from a director. Dogs exploded Tarantino into the underground film circuit and made him the cool, hip director we have come to love. I will stop here for now as a review of Dogs is in the works as I write this.
3) Clerks (Kevin Smith)- 1994
The funniest movie my eyes and ears have had the privilege of witnessing. Clerks is vulgar and raunchy, but it is “smart raunchy.” Smith creates chracters that are witty, well developed, and sometimes downright offensive (in a good way). After all these years this film still retains its unique quality- you simply cannot steal that from this film. The unpolished, poorly edited (appearance wise) look of the film is its precise appeal. No one can say this is just like every other comedy film, just look at the damn thing! It effortlessly has character and with the support of Smith’s knack for brilliant dialogue (basically most of the film) this character is further augmented transforming Clerks into a slacker, Generation X classic. It does not care if you feel unimpressed or shocked, or even bored for you worthless viewers out there that do not “get it.” After about eight or nine years of admiring this movie I still hold it in high regard and can watch it over and over agin- probably 2-3 times a year at the least.
2) Dazed and Confused (Richard Linklater)- 1993
“That’s what I love about these High School girls I get older they stay the same age.”- Wooderson (Matthew McConaughey). Nowadays Wooderson would be creepin on Facebook for the High School Hunnies! Dazed captures teen/high school life better than any other film, even American Graffitti (1973), which is a fierce competitor. I often hear fans refer to this as a “stoner” movie. There is some validity to that, but it should never be reduced to Cheech and Chong status. To make an analogy, Dazed is like a gangsta rap who has matured and rhymes about social issues. That rapper still has his gangsta flavor (party/hang out quality) but has mostly grown beyond that. This is a fun, interesting, and certainly thought provoking coming of age film you have to see at some point in your lifetime.
1) Pulp Fiction (Quentin Tarantino)- 1994 !!! :)
So here we are at #1. Do I have to explain why this takes the cake? I have yet to see a film as good as PF since its release in 1994. PF redefined the action genre- sure it is a massive pastiche, composed of countless references to various films, TV shows, music, and other areas of pop culture. But, do not be fooled, it perfects the genre like no other film before it. What I love the most about PF is the way the story unfolds before you eyes: at any point one little, just one little teensy detail can alter the remainder of the plot. I.E. Mia’s sudden overdose, Butch and Marcellus fighting their way into a pawn shop, whose propietors are satomasichists that torture them, amongst other things. Tarantino’s baby is a phenomenon we, movie viewing public of the world rarely have the chance to experience; people still discuss PF as if it was just released and I doubt that will ever change.
Full Title: Born On the Fourth of July Director: Oliver Stone Year: 1989 Comments: This is one of greatest American stories ever told and one that needs to be heard. I think anyone that is considering joining the military should see this film or read the novel by Ron Kovic, which it is based on. Ronnie is easily one of the most admirable figures in American history. From start to finish he demonstrates immense courage; whether it is his unflinching attitude to immediately volunteer for the Marines, his tremendous bravery on the battlefield in Vietnam, his continuing determination (even after being paralyzed) to fight for his country whilst suffering in a horribly unfunded veterans’ hospital, to his new found awareness of the evil of government and war and his resulting militance as peace/anti-war activist/author/public speaker. I am always inspired by his character, even when I am incredibly frusturated by his ignorance and the way he blindly obeys the call to action to “Stop Communism.” The fact that he was able to stand up and take charge against the system that robbed him of so much (his ability to walk, his ability to reproduce, his faith in humanity, etc.) is remarkable. I love the way director, Oliver Stone, himself a Vietnam Vet, paints this wonderful picture of Americanism and tells the story of twentieth centruy America through Ron’s tale. Sometimes, especially at the beginning, it is kind of cheesy and cliched, but it works really well here, like it adds this made for TV movie feel to it that in many ways fits the ridiculous nature of American society as a whole. Kids had watched their fathers and grandfathers fight in “noble” wars and so when Vietnam came about, now it was their time to take up the arms and defend their country. Then they find out it was (and still is) all a lie- everything they were taught was a lie. Long live brave people like Ron Kovic, who can make such 180 turns after being so invested in the opposing side. Grade: A-
Full Title: Malcolm X Director: Spike Lee Year: 1992 Comments: I CHARGE THE WHITE MAN FOR MAKING TOO MANY TERRIBLE MOVIES. I CHARGE THE WHITE MAN FOR BEING THE GREATEST PERVAYOR OF HORRIBLE TELEVISION PROGRAMS, OF BEING THE FAKEST SWINE TO WALK THE EARTH. Thank God, we have Spike Lee, an excellent Black filmmaker, and certainly this is one of his finest films. I would go as far as to say this is the best biopic to grace the silver screen, the model for all other biopics. Like Ron Kovic (except so much more), Malcolm X’s story needs to be heard. I would recommend y’all read The Autobiography of Malcolm as Told to Alex Healey (1965) as seen in the Recommend Reading section of this site before you watch this flick, but if you’re a little whiny bitch and you do not like to read or do not have the time then at least view this exceptional film. Malcolm’s story is the black man’s experience in AmeriKKKa. This is what makes him such a crucial figure, we see him rise through the shadows and darkness and into the light through prison. His militance transformed a whole generation of black people into liberators, truly emancipating themselves from their white oppressors. Now, I in absolutely no way can relate to that, but privileged (white) people, such as myself, can learn many lessons from the Minister’s teachings. He took everything and turned it upside down- whatever the white man said he sliced deep into and ripped out what lay beneath. One can do this with anything; take white man and insert government (though that’s basically the same thing) and peel slowly and see :) Denzel Washington steals the show as the title role and I love the way Lee moves beyond a simple “Malcolm X died on…. He was influential…” instead he provides one of the most heartfelt closers in the history of cinema: we see images of the real Malcolm and how he affected the world from the time of his death till present (then 1992) over Ossie Davis giving him his eulogy (if I am not mistaken). A powerful film for all to see. Grade : A
Full Title: Walk the Line Director: James Mangold Year: 2005 Comments: What else can be said about the Man in Black that hasn’t been said over and over again. This film does a great job of capturing the early Rock and Roll/Sun Records Memphis music scene. Here we see Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, and Carl Perkins. Great performances from Joaquin Phoenix (Johnny Cash) and Reese Witherspoon (June Carter); I appreciate the fact that both of them did their own vocals as well. We see Johnny go through hell and back and at times he is not that wonderful guy we know and love, but that is precisely what makes him who he is. He knows the plight of the worker, the misery of the drug addict, and (to a much lesser extent) the frusturation of the prisoner. He represents and brings out the best in all of us. He is our American Badass- no matter what political, social, relgious group you belong to. Grade: A/A-
Full Title: Cheech and Chong’s Nice Dreams Director: Tommy Chong Year: 1981 Comments: WARNING: YOU MUST BE AT LEAST EIGHT BEERS DEEP, EXTREMELY HIGH AS A KITE AND IN LOVE WITH EVERYTHING IN ORDER TO VIEW THIS FILM. Otherwise you will probably detest it out of sheer boredom. I can’t imagine watching this sober. Yeesh. Naturally, after the original Cheech and Chong flick Up In Smoke (1978) the series started to plummet. But, all is well if you are twizsted, at least for me. I loved how fucked up and overtly aimless this stoner essential could be. With naked ladies, crazy coke snorting, and hilarious cameos from the likes of Timothy Leary and Paul Reubens (Pee Wee!) I can safely say this was not a waste of my time, in fact it felt like I had been watching it for days.
Grade: N/A- this would be an F for obvious reasons, but given the fact that I (and hopefully everyone) do not take this at all seriously, a grade is unecessary. KLYAM Recommended? Yeah sure, if you’re really baked!
Full Title: Almost Famous Director: Cameron Crowe Year: 2000 Comments: Almost Famous is perhaps the greatest portrayl of Rock and Roll ever to hit the silver screen. What I really dig about this flick is that it takes place in 1973 as the era of Great Rock and Roll was gasping for air. We see these last precious moments of rebellion through the eyes of William Miller (Patrick Fugit) a fifteen year old journalist and a devout fan, experiencing this transition from music of the people to “industry of cool,” as real life Rock Critic, Lestor Bangs (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) puts it. With great performances from Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand, Jason Lee, Billy Crudup, (a young) Zooey Deschanel, amongst others, this is a Must See for Rock fans and non fans (but who cares about them?!) alike.
Grade: A/A+
Full Title: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Director: Milos Forman Year: 1975 Comments: This has been a favorite of mine for about six or seven years now and I can’t imagine anyone walking through life and not seeing this at least once. Granted, the novel is better and I can understand why those who love the book would detest this. With that being said, I prefer the adaptation so much more because the brilliant performances of Jack Nicholson and crew truly bring all of these colorful characters to life in ways that for me personally are not as effective in the written form. The classic ending is so triumphant and beautiful that I have rarely seen another film top it; easily one of the greatest final shots in the history of cinema. Funny, passionate, disturbing, and inspiring- what else can you ask for? It should also be noted that after thirty-five years this movie has not dated at all; I watched it in one of my Psychology classes and nearly all of the class appreciated and/or loved it. How a film stands the test of time is to me a major factor of quality and Cuckoo’s Nest appears to be timeless.
Grade: A+ (in my top ten)
Full Title: Do the Right Thing Director: Spike Lee Year: 1989 Comments: So, it was after 1 A.M. on a Monday night, a school night, junior year of high school, and I’m lying in my bed, watching this Spike Lee joint (bad idea for any first time viewing of a film) struggling to stay awake. Then all of a sudden, as the film is reaching its climax, I rose and walked toward my TV set and stood there for the remainder of the film (a good 15-20 minutes) just glued to the screen. This has never happened to me before. I couldn’t sleep after what I had just seen; my brain was overloaded with numerous thoughts, questions, impressions, etc. The next morning in my Algebra class, I put forth a valiant effort to focus on whatever it was we were covering in the Math world, but my mind was just fixed on DTRT, particularly the ending (one of the greatest I’d wager). If you haven’t surmised already, this is an extremly thought provoking film and unleashes the most heated of debates, even amongst its participants (disagreements have risen between Lee and some of the actors). To spare the suspense, the movie depicts the lives of those in a Brooklyn neighborhood on the hottest day of the Summer and like the heat, the racial tension between blacks, whites, hispanics, and asians is driving everyone crazy. Though, this a black film, Lee does not shy away from portraying black characters with many flaws (there are also several black characters that fight prejudice and are quite respectable) as well as both racist and non racist characters of other ethnicities. Lee’s perspective as black director is essential to this film as it distinguishes itself from other race related films such as American History X (1998) and Crash (2004), which have less of a point of view, in this respect. I could go on all day about all the various, super factors that make this a terrific film, but in short, it’s the little things that Lee incorporates that makes this joint Spike Lee’s distinctive piece- from Rosie Perez (ready to go with her boxing gloves) dancing to Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” (1989) over the opening credits to DJ Mister Senor Love Daddy (Samuel L. Jackson) listing off the roll call of the radio station’s many, essential, black artists “that make the day just a little brighter.” Suffice to say this film makes you think.
Grade: A+
Three great dramedies (though they are more than that) to check out!
Next: A Full Review of I Am Legend (2007) or a Mini Classic Review of Born On the Fourth of July (1989) and others
Full Title: The Social Network Director: David Fincher Year: 2010 Comments: The Social Network has been hailed as a film that defines a generation and to me regardless of whether you like it or not, it is. Facebook is a part of our lives and for many it is our lives. Admittedly, I check my Facebook page at the very least a few times day. Such a phenomenon deserves its own film- even if the events depicted occured less than a decade ago and the plot itself is based on a novel (The Accidental Billionaires by: Ben Mezrich) released just last year. Everything is happening so fast! Yet, this ultra fast, in out, in out :) pace is perfect for the story or message the writers, filmmakers, etc are trying to articulate to the masses: the rampant releases of everything Facebook is a good metaphor for how quickly our modern world functions. Despite the fact that this is extremely recent history, I can’t imagine a more appropos time for its release. Now, it should be known that this film embellishes what happened in real life; it’s part fact, part fiction. In other words, the story was spiced up a bit to make the film a far more fascinating experience for all of us. I suppose one could compare this to the previous film I reviewed, Oliver Stone’s The Doors (1991) in which what appears on screen is more a “vision” of the actual events. So, with a few lines, let me tell you that the story begins in 2003 with Harvard undergrad, Mark Zuckerburg (Jesse Eisenburg) feeling disgruntled after being dumped by his girlfriend, he starts to drunkenly blog about her “lessr” qualities and soon finds himself creating a new internet sensation in “Facesmash,” in which his fellow male Harvard students can compare pictures of their female counterparts and vote for which one is more attractive. Within mere hours the site receives thousands of hits and ends up crashing the system. Mark is sentenced to six months of academic probation and understandably becomes a pariah. Not too long after this incident Mark is approached by a trio of Harvard students: Identical twin brothers- Cameron Winklevoss and Tyler Winklevoss (Armie Hammer) and their friend Divya Narendra (Max Minghella) looking for a programmer for their upcoming website, Harvard Connection. Mark accepts their offer, but eludes their subsequent calls, meanwhile he enlists his buddy, Eduardo Saverin (Andrew Garfield) in assisting him with his latest project, “The Facebook,” essentially initiating the social network phenomenon we know of today. The rest of the film consists of simultaneous court cases with the Winklevoss brothers and Eduardo filing lawsuits against him over Facebook. Literally, we are bombarded with both cases at the same time; the movie goes back and forth, back and forth, leaving us feeling as overwhelmed as Mark. As a character he is quite fascinating, throughout the movie he is always searching for the meaning of “cool” and in many ways that is exactly what Facebook is: the supreme network of cool. Oddly enough, from start to finish Mark, it seems, never actually is “cool,” always an outsider (sometimes physically as metaphorically suggested in one of the party scenes where everyone is celebrating inside his house, while he is on the outside, simply observing. In essence, that is in actuality what Mark’s life becomes. He may not be cool himself, but he is the one who has created cool. Grade: A, the best (or at least my favorite) film I’ve seen all year.
This was one of my favorite trailers from this year, so rarely do trailers entice you with something else besides the actual scenes themselves.
Full Title: Detroit Rock City Director: Adam Rifkin Year: 1999 Comments: This is straight up fun, fun, fun film about the nightmare of losing your KISS tickets the day of the concert and winding up in every possible adventure to make it to the show and see the HOTTEST BAND IN THE WORLD!!! Sure, this is over the top, absurd, and lacks many aspects of what typically makes a film decent, but this is just a wacky, fun filled flick to be taken lightly. I will say, I never lose my interest the entire movie; I can’t wait to see what obstacle will arise next in the boys’ journey to seeing KISS.
Grade: N/A, this is just a cool, popcorn movie, so I really don’t think slapping a grade on it is useful. It’s KLYAM Recommended that’s all you need to know.
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Full Title: High Fidelity Director: Stephen Frears Year: 2000 Comments: Our second film regarding life and music, High Fidelity, however is more substance than style and eshews basic Hollywood cliches, creating a masterful love story in the process. HF is quite humorous and should be appreciated by (OBSESSIVE) music fans, such as myself, often hitting too close to home haha. In my opinion, John Cusack’s greatest performance. The acting is great, the script is well-written, and the story nicely unfolds without the aforementioned, cliched Hollywood ending. If you’re a fan of good love stories and pop music, give this some eyetime.
Grade: A ><
Full Title: The Doors Director: Oliver Stone Year: 1991 Comments: For Doors fans, you should know up front this is a rather loose interpretation of their history, a “vision” of what actually happened, if you will. But, you probably will dig the plethora of excellent Doors music, the astonishingly scary depiction of Mr. Mojo Risin from Val Kilmer, and lastly the visual look of the film, which is simply stunning. For accuracy, look elsewhere. For a sad, but genuinely entertaining and thoughtful look at the decadence and tragedy of the Rockstar lifestyle, The Doors is your movie. Without a doubt one of Stone’s essentials.
Grade: A/A-
Full Title: Rear Window Director: Alfred Hitchcock Year: 1954 Comments This is arguably the greatest offering from the Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock. Hitch’s 1954 classic more than holds up and is perhaps just as suspenseful now as fifty-six years ago. Briefly, the plot concerns the dull day to day life of Jeff (James Stewart) a wheel chair bound photographer as he has nothing left to do but satisfy his carnal base needs through spying (via binoculars) on his neighbours. As the movie progresses, we sympathize with Jeff because we have, ourselves, become voyeurs just like him as the film is through his point of view. The suspense kicks in further when Jeff stumbles upon a murder from one of his neighbours. The rest of the film is Jeff trying to convince everyone else that a murder took place and the killer should be brought to justice. Only Hitchcock can take this story and make it as thrilling as it is. Fuck Disturbia (2006)! In other words, if you haven’t already, watch this film, it’s amazing; not as good as Psycho (1960), but what is?
>Grade: A
Full Title: Thank You For Smoking Director: Jason Reitman Year: 2005 Comments: This is a great piece of satire from Reitman and crew that neither endorses nor condemns Tobacco, but rather pokes fun at all the propaganda and hullabaloo that surrounds the topic. I really appreaciate this story for not selling its audience short and instead showing anti-tobacco politicians as villians (within this context) for basically exploiting the issue of smoking to enhance their own political careers. And by that same token, the character of Nick Naylor (Aaron Eckhart) is one of my favorites in all of cinema, as he is a great, three dimensional figure with both negative and redeeming qualities. Overall, a very funny and sharp look at an ongoing debate in America.
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Full Title: Pee Wee’s Big Adventure Director: Tim Burton Year: 1985 Comments: Write a mini movie review of Pee Wee’s Big Adventure. (In a classic Pee Wee Herman voice) MAYBE I WILL! Perhaps one of the zaniest and definitely funniest kids movies I have ever had the pleasure of seeing. Burton’s knack for odd, but enticing imagery is perfectly mixed with Paul Reuben’s eccentric performance as the bizarre man-child, Pee Wee, dedicated to only one thing in life: retrieving his beloved bike. And yes, Large Marge scared the shit outta me too as a child!
Grade: A
Full Title: American Psycho Director: Mary Harron Year: 2000 Comments: Shocking. Depraved. Gruesome. Sickening. Those are some adjectives you could use to describe this film. Or…. you could say….Hilarious. Comical. Witty. AP works on various levels and without a doubt is a film that sticks with you for its over the top, slam to your sensory approach. It’s twisted, gory, and for some downright offensive (as with Bret Easton Ellis’ novel, which it is based on). But, that’s the point. This is a story about high class, Wall Street scumfucks and in particular one snobbish, narcissistic man that is so devoid of human emotion he must lash out against society in the form of mass murder. AP takes that story and slices and dices it with black humor, radio friendly pop songs, and exaggerated performances- almost to the point of questioning the seriousness of what you are viewing. This is the kind of movie some folks hate for having an ambiguous message/purpose, but that’s precisely what I adore about it. Well, I’d love to stay and finish this review, but I have to return some video tapes.
Full Title: Machete Directors: Ethan Maniquis and Robert Rodriguez Year: 2010 Comments: When I grow up, I want to be MACHETE! (pronounced muh shet tay not muh shetty). As a big fan of the fake Machete trailer in Grindhouse (2007) as well as director Robert Rodriguez’s work in general, this film was near the top of my list of highly anticipated, Must Sees of Twenty-Ten, and fortunately my expectations were satisfied. The plot involves a badass Mexican named Machete (Danny Trejo), who is instructed to off a racist, anti-immigration propaganda spewing Senator (Robert De Niro) for $150,000. Machete, an illegal immigrant himself, needs the money and accepts. As he is about to fire, he is shot at and he soon realizes the whole assassination was a set up to boost sympathy votes for the Senator and his anti-immigration policies. Now, Machete is on the run and the target of everyone from Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents (Jessica Alba) to covert businessmen (Jeff Fahey). Machete also features Steven Seagal (he actually does a decent job!) as an evil druglord/nemesis of Machete, Michelle Rodriguez (looking fabulous as usual) as Shé, the leader of an underground network to support illegal immigrants, Cheech Marin as a renegade reverend/brother of Machete, and Lindsey Lohan also makes a few appearances, some without her clothes! Which, brings me to my next point, Machete is filled to the brim with buckets of blood- decapitations, intestines ripped out and used as ropes, you know all that good old family fun. Plus plenty of nudity, sex and other lurid imagery. This Mexploitation flick delivers a dish best served cold; in other words it’s a straight up gruesome, guy-action movie of that wonderfully, black/absurdist humor tinged Rodriguez/Tarantino, trashy, Grindhouse revival variety. Pheww that was a mouthful… Machete never fails to excite and entertain its audience because like most Rodriguez flicks it contains over the top, stylized violence mixed with a solid story, memorable characters, and witty, distinctive dialogue, separating it from your run of the mill action pieces of shit. On a final note, I dig the germane content of the film- illegal immigration, in light of the recent Arizona fiasco, though I don’t think this is a movie with a deep political message haha. In any case, I hope to see a Machete II in the future!
Grade: B+/A-
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Kids Like You & Me (KLYAM) 