'SIREN'S TOP 100 COUNTDOWN or 'JUMPIN ON THE BADWAGON'

[SIREN30]

So, I've posted by top 100 before but it's been revised a bit and I'm ready to get involved in this whole 'countdown' shindig. I'm very proud of my list. It consists almost entirely of older films, movies made before the disintegration of 'proper' society-or times when things were pure, innocent, classic. Occasionally, a film is released in the present day that sticks with me and makes me reconsider this list. And then, after sleeplessness and much concentration- I alter THE LIST. It's a traumatic time, but I get through it.

All of these movies get a 10/10 from me...at least they do now. I might not have felt so strongly about them initially but the've grown on me and even if the movie contains flaws, i can't help but love it.

So, without further ado. The List as it now stands:

100. Green Card (1990)

synopsis:George Faure is a Frenchman who has been offered a job in the U.S. But in order to get the job he must obtain a work permit - green card, and the easiest way is to marry an American. Bronte Parrish is a New Yorker who is a keen horticulturist and just found the perfect flat with its own greenhouse. Unfortunately the flat is for married couples only. A marriage of convenience seems the ideal solution to both problems. To convince the immigration officers they are married for love, they must move in with each other. As the mismatched couple attempt to cope with life together, they start to fall in love.


Peter Weir has proven to be, in my opinion, the most fullproof of directors. With classics like The Mosquito Coast, Dead Poets Society, The Truman Show, Master and Commander, The Year of Living Dangerously, Witness, etc-is it possible for the guy to screw up? In many critic's opinions, this movie was faulty. But I was able to overlook Andie McDowell's wretched performance for several reasons.
1. Gerard Depardieu is brillant. Never have I seen an actor so capable of wrenching a heart out of a chest with one look. His comedic skill is faultless and natural. His dramatic delivery takes my breath away (Cyrano, anyone?). And in this film, the fact that he was kind of a 'bad boy' added just that touch of sexiness to his bulk.
2. Peter Weir- once again, this man is a master w/ the camera. The shots of Andie's greenhouse-almost spiritual in nature- made you truly understand her selfishness. The shots thru the peephole were ludicrous and interesting. The final scene with its hanky-worthy music could not have worked better.
3. The story- it's original. It's tender. It's, most of all, BELIEVEABLE.
4. Bebe Neuwirth-the woman delivers about 10 lines in the movie. And every one of them is classic.

Favorite Scene: The Soire at the Adlers. George has been faking his talent as a composer. When he is introduced to Lauren's (Bebe Neuwirth) parents as such, he is called upon to play one of his pieces for the blueblood crowd . Instead of owning up to the lie, he proceeds to raucously bang on the piano keys like a madman. The expression on Lauren's face is absolutely delightful.




http://www.spiritualityhealth.com/shimages/film/greencardlrg.jpg

[SIREN30]

99. The Freshman (1990)

synopsis: A young film school student is asked by 'family' head, Carmine Sabatini to deliver a package-and receive a very handsome paycheck for doing so. But all kinds of problems ensue when the package turns out to be an endangered reptile, Carmine's daughter becomes infatuated with him, and the feds are on his trail. Matthew Broderick, Marlon Brando, Penelope Ann Miller, and Frank Whaley star.

The idea of Marlon Brando playing a guy who LOOKS just like Vito Corleone is hilarious in itself. But it is the entire manner in which this story plays out that makes it such a classic. The tounge-in-cheek references to The Godfather and other mafia classics, the fantastic comedic acting by Brando and Broderick, the oddball characters involved in the 'gourmet dining' conspiracy (Maximillion Schell, BD Wong, and yes-Bert Parks), the great storyline, and the Komodo dragon escape all combine to make remarkable film that is just the plesantest of surprises. Each time I see it, I appreciate a little more the guts it took to pull this one off.

Favorite Scene: THere are so many! But, I've always loved the sight of Marlon Brando ice-dancing amid the loving applause of his family

.http://images.greencine.com/images/movies/amg/dvd/cov150/drt000/t011/t01123frtmb.jpg

[Cronos]

Green Card - 6/10

[SIREN30]

98. The Red Shoes (1948)

synopsis: A reknowned Ballet director becomes obsessed with a young dancer, Victoria Page. Against his professional judgment, he assigns her the lead in a new ballet, The Red Shoes. But complicated emotions and strife unfold when his protegee' falls madly inlove with the ballet's maverick composer.


Stunning. I can't even tell you the tears I cried the first time I saw this. I was 12 years old and hardly could prepare myself for what lay ahead (me and my romantic head). Now, I don't cry because the end is actually one of the weakest moments of the film, in my adult opinion. Now, I simply sit in absolutel silence and savor the gorgeous direction, cinematography, and acting that make up The Red Shoes. It is THE quintessential dance movie, absolutely. But it is so much more than that ! Anton Walbrook's performance should HANDS DOWN have one the oscar that year. And I was surprised to find that I am not alone in that opinion. He just eats the role. You feel his passion and his pain-and you hate him for making you feel it. His obsession with Vicky (Moira Shearer) and her dancing is unholy in its execution but at the same time it is downright contagious. The wordless ballet that lasts for an abnormal ammount of screen time is miraculous and beautiful beyond belief. And the love story is also extremely effective. There is a scene in a carriage that always makes me tear up.
"When I am old, my grandchildren will ask me at what time of my life I was happiest. And I will tell them it was the time that I spent with Victoria Page. What?-they will say-Victoria Page the famous dancer? And yes, I will answer. We were, as I remember, very much inlove." ..sniff...sniff.


Favorite Scene: I thoroughly enjoy the montage of scenes showing the rehearsal of the new ballet. It was the first time I realized how difficult dancing was!

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00000IPHT.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

[ThirdOuting]

The Red Shoes is brilliant. I'm interested to see what else is on the list with this being so low down! But it's on there, which I appreciate.

[TylerDurden182]

The Red Shoes- 7/10

[SIREN30]

97. Good Morning, Vietnam! (1987)

synopsis: A new Disc Jockey is shipped from Crete to Vietnam to bring humor to Armed Forces Radio. He turns the studio on it's ear and becomes wildly popular with the troops but runs afoul of the middle management who think he isn't G.I. enough.

I was a big fan of Mork & Mindy, okay? I know there may have been priors, but this was the first time I ever saw Robin Williams in a semi-serious role. I was sixteen and I was completely blown away. Now, when I see it, I also appreciate the supporting peformances and the great direction. There are very few war films that can still succeed in making the viewer appreciate life as it is-even with all it's gritty mistakes. It's funny. It's poetic. It's an awesome example of ad-libbing that WORKS. And the human element is so beautiful to see-Vietnamese and Americans, alike.

Favorite Scene: It's one of the more obvious scenes-but I've always loved when Forrest Whitaker and Robert Wuhl are reading the 'fan mail' for Steven Hauk's polka radio-show. The whole segment is one big belly-laugh.

http://victoryatseaonline.com/war/vietnam/images/good-morning-vietnam.gif

[TylerDurden182]

Good Morning, Vietnam- 7/10

[SIREN30]

96. Breaker Morant (1980)

synopsis: During the Boer War, three Australian lieutenants are on trial for shooting Boer prisoners. Though they acted under orders, they are being used as scapegoats by the General Staff, who hopes to distance themselves from the irregular practices of the war. The trial does not progress as smoothly as expected by the General Staff, as the defence puts up a strong fight in the courtroom.

It's hard for me to put a finger on why this movie affects me so. It's such a wonderful example of true integrity, of human companionship, of fierce steadfastness. I adore the relationship between the three protagonists, the hot and hazy cinematography, the brilliant dialogue. But it's the performance of Edward Woodward that always keeps me coming back-regardless of the tragedy. Such a great great movie.

Favorite scene: The final scene. Enough said.


http://www.screenselect.co.uk/images/products/8/2458-large.jpg

[SIREN30]

95. Born Yesterday (1950)

synopsis: Uncouth, loud-mouth junkyard tycoon Harry Brock descends upon Washington D.C. to buy himself a congressman or two, bringing with him his mistress, ex-showgirl Billie Dawn. Brock hires newspaperman Paul Verrall to see if he can soften her rough edges and make her more presentable in capital society. But Harry gets more than he bargained for as Billie absorbs Verall's lessons in U.S. history and not only comes to the realization that Harry is nothing but a two-bit, corrupt crook, but in the process also falls in love with her handsome tutor.

First, may I say-HOW COULD THEY HAVE ATTEMPTED TO REMAKE THIS MOVIE? Ok, that's off my chest. I don't know how flattering it is to be known as the 'best dumb blonde ever', but Judy Holliday is IT. She bursts onto the screen and suddenly, it's clear: She is the most adorably clueless person ever made. But even though Judy surely makes this movie what it is, there are still other great things about it. William Holden plays the brainiac with such panache that you almost forget that he was really considered a 'meat-head' of his day. Broderick Crawford still manages to make an impression also, strutting around as he does like a well-dressed Bluto. The story is smart and fulfilling also-with an ending that makes a cheer inevitable.

Oh whatever. It's all about Judy.

Favorite scene: I like the card game. I think it speaks of Billie's potential the most.

http://www.homevideos.com/photoscomedy/bornyesterdaynew.jpeg

[SAI]

100. Green Card (1990): N/A
99. The Freshman (1990): 3/5
98. The Red Shoes (1948): 5/5 (I'll be adding this to my list in the next revision, the ballet of the red shoes may be the single most gorgeous thing ever comitted to film)
97. Good Morning, Vietnam! (1987): 3/5
96. Breaker Morant (1980): N/A
95. Born Yesterday (1950): 3/5 (Judy Holliday made this for me but I'll take her in Adam's Rib myself)

[Deadite914]

abstain on all execpt

freshman - 8/10
good morning vietnam - 9/10

[SIREN30]

94. Emma (1996)

synopsis: Emma Woodhouse has a rigid sense of propriety as regards matrimonial alliances. Unfortunately she insists on matchmaking for her less forceful friend, Harriet, and so causes her to come to grief. Through the sharp words of Mr. Knightley, and the example of the opinionated Mrs. Elton, someone not unlike herself, Emma's attitudes begin to soften...


No, this is NOT the one with Gwyneth Paltrow (thought I like it too). This is actually the A & E adaptation by the same directior (Diarmid Lawrence) who adapted the equally impressive Pride & Predjudice miniseries. This version stars Kate Beckinsale, Samantha Morton, Olivia Williams, and a whole passel of amazing English film veterans. Kate's Emma is less prissy, more humane, sexier, cuter. Paltrow was good but Beckinsale is great. The supporting females of the story are all equally good- Morton is a waifish and sweet Harriet-Williams has a meaty and endearing part in Jane Fairfax-Lucy Robinson is a hilarious Mrs Elton. But the men are not to be 'out-done'! Mark Strong is a perfect Mr Knightly-even more compelling than Northam (who can do no wrong, in my book) and Dominic Rowan gives smarmy Mr Elton a definite flair. The entire execution is so superior to the cinematic version that I can't really go into it all here. Just suffice it to say that Austen would be super proud of this, one of her favorite stories brought so faithfully to life. Love it!

Favorite scene: On Box Hill. Emma says some thoughtless things to an old friend and trusty Mr Knightly sets that wench straight!


http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0767020308.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

[Hannibal21]

The Red Shoes - 9/10 (I so agree, absolutely stunning)
Good Morning, Vietnam - 7/10
Born Yesterday - 8.5/10 (Judy Holliday was very good in this, but she shouldn't have stolen Bette Davis' Oscar that year! ;))

[ChemicalRomance]

I haven't seen any of these!! :(

[TylerDurden182]

Born Yesterday- 7/10
Emma- 6/10

[Deadite914]

Originally posted by ChemicalRomance
I haven't seen any of these!! :(

ditto

[Cronos]

Good Morning Vietnam - 9/10
Emma - 1/10

[SIREN30]

93. Arthur! (1981)

Synopsis: Arthur is a happy drunk with no pretensions at any ambition. He is also the heir to a vast fortune which he is told will only be his if he marries Susan. He does not love Susan, but she will make something of him the family expects. Arthur proposes but then meets a girl with no money who he could easily fall in love with.

Funny about this movie: When I first saw it , years ago, I hated it. I was young and thoroughly bored. As an adult, I saw it again and was shocked by how much I loved it. So much, that after seeing it a couple more times-it was in the top 100. There are so many things to like about this simple little story. Great drunk performance by Moore (rivals Lee Marvin, people!), great and unexpected love interest in Liza Minelli, wonderful wonderful dialogue ('Youre a hooker? Jesus, I forgot. I thought I was doing GREAT with you!'), and who can forget Sir John Gielgud as Hobson? It's one of those love stories that will stay with you for a long time-simply because of the blatant MORTALITY of it's players.

Favorite Scene: Dudley meets Liza in a ritzy mens' clothing store; she's shoplifting a tie for her dad. :D

http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2005/04/21/fondue_arthur2_wideweb__430x315.jpg

[SIREN30]

92. The Fugitive (1993)


synopsis:Prominent surgeon, Dr. Richard Kimble, is arrested and charged with the murder of his wife, despite his insistence that a one-armed intruder had committed the crime. When an accident involving his prison bus sets him free, Kimble must use his wits to solve the mystery and find the man who killed his wife. Hot on his trail, however, is an equally crafty US Marshal, who will stop at nothing until Kimble is behind bars

How many times have I seen this movie? I think It has to be approaching the double digits. This is a movie I NEVER get tired of, because it is absolutely one of the most entertaining pictures ever made. Tommy Lee Jones delivers one of my very favorite supporting performances of ALL time and I also believe that this is Harrison Ford's best role. I love the awesome train wreck, the crazy chase scenes, the edge-of-your-seat (even after multiple viewings) suspense, and most of all-the intelligent plot.

Favorite Scene: The aftermath of the train-wreck, especially when Gerard takes over the investigation.

http://i.a.cnn.net/cnn/interactive/entertainment/0508/gallery.tv.to.movies/images/gal.the.fugitive.jpg

[SIREN30]

Originally posted by Hannibal21
The Red Shoes - 9/10 (I so agree, absolutely stunning)
Good Morning, Vietnam - 7/10
Born Yesterday - 8.5/10 (Judy Holliday was very good in this, but she shouldn't have stolen Bette Davis' Oscar that year! ;))

LOL...well, Hannibal- You KNOW where All About Eve is gonna be on this list, don't you???

[SIREN30]

91. Charade (1963)



synopsis: Regina Lambert (Audrey Hepburn) is contemplating and end to her unhappy marriage when she receives the news that her husband has been murdered. In addition to this, she discovers that he was living a lie and had stolen 250,000 dollars from the government years before. Learning that her husband was in possesion of this money upon his death leads her on a mad treasure hunt for the cash-accompanied by a sexy male friend (Cary Grant) and pursued by three comical baddies.

Chemistry. How could Cary Grant have had such FANTASTIC chemistry with so many of his leading ladies? He was just the sexiest guy alive, I guess. This movie is a great combination of mystery, thriller, love story, and comedy. Not only does it contain all of those elements but it succeeds in every one of them. Stanley Donen was a wiz. Not many directors today will attempt such different styles of movie in their career. But this little gem is shining evidence that he could do anything.
All the acting is memorable and there are some GREAT one-liners in this flick (Coburn: 'She batted them big eyes at you and you, you fell for it like an egg from a tall chicken')


Favorite scene: . I love the conversation in the elevator, the sexy banter at the hotel. (Hepburn-pointing at the cleft in Grant's chin-'How do you shave in there?') :D

http://tfmc.blogs.com/the_flying_monkey_circus/Charade.jpg

[SIREN30]

90. Chicago (2002)

synopsis: Roxy Hart dreams of a career in showbusiness. Velma Kelly has one. Both seeminly ruin their chances, however, when they decide to kill their lovers in cold blood. Enter Billy Flynn, the sleek and sleezy lawyer who will rally to their defense-for a price.

This is one of the more recent additions to my LIST. It took me three years to finally enter it in, however, because I have to allow the initial excitement to die down first. I just can't help it! This movie rocks my world! Maybe it's just my psychotic love for the movie musical and its reemergence. Maybe it's the fact that it was one of my favorite stage plays. Maybe it's the fantastic songs. Or maybe it's just that it was so well done. Gorgeous and strong Catherine Zeta Jones is the perfect Velma Kelly (as good if not better than stage-veteran Bebe Neuwirth), Zelwegger sings a great (if scrawny) Roxie Hart, John C Reilly IS my Mr Cellophane, Queen Latifah is surprising and perfect as gutsy Mama Morton, and let's not forget Richard Gere-hoofing it along as Billy Flynn. The musical numbers are all just stunning, immaculately intro'd out of Roxie's troubled head. I hope more strong musicals are coming.



favorite scene: I absolutely love the musical number 'They Both Reached For the gun' in which Flynn controls his client and the media like the puppets that they are. It's a beautiful thing.



http://www.bangitout.com/images/Chicago.jpg

[SIREN30]

89. Bringing Up Baby (1938)

synopsis: In this screwball comedy, heiress Susan is determined to catch a stuffy zoologist and uses her pet leopard, Baby, to help get his attention. The elements of this farce include a yappy terrier who steals and buries an irreplaceable fossilized bone, a pompous big game hunter, a rich old aunt, a jealous fiancee, and a case of mistaken identity involving a second, and vicious, leopard

Again, it's the chemistry. Grant and Hepburn had the stuff. Yes, this is brilliant comedy at work.Yes, it's got great writing and a hilarious storyline. But even though it's a crazy romp through impossible situations, it has heart. And it also has a precious supporting player in Baby, the leopard. If you have never seen this timelss romantic comedy-do yourself a favor. ;)


favorite scene: I love when Grant and Hepburn meet. From this point, the movie is effortless.

http://www.offscreen.it/gif/gallery/susanna.jpg

[SIREN30]

88. The Apartment (1960)

synopsis: Insurance statistician C.C. "Bud" Baxter (Jack Lemon) advances his career by making his Manhattan apartment available to executives in his company for their extramarital affairs. His boss, Jeff D. Sheldrake, finds out and promotes Bud in return for the exclusive use of the apartment for his own affair. When Sheldrake's girlfriend turns out to be Fran Kubelik (Shirley McLaine), a pretty elevator operator Bud likes, he is heartbroken, but accepts the arrangement.

This is THE quintessential Billy Wilder. It's a perfect example of great players, great dialogue, and great direction involved in a glorious menage-e-trois. Jack Lemmon is such a sweet, unassuming guy. You really feel his pain when he discovers Fran is Sheldrake's girlfriend. Even so, Fran is such a likeable and sweet little gal that you can't help but love her. So, the movie is heartbreaking for odd reasons. But it's also heartwarming and funny for those same reasons. I dare you not to shed a tear.

Favorite scene: This line says it all:
C.C. Baxter-' the mirror...it's broken'
Fran- 'Yes, I know. I like it that way. Makes me look the way I feel.'

http://www.movieforum.com/people/actors/jacklemmon/images/maclainelemmon.jpg

[bigred760]

Some good choices with The Fugitive and Charade, two very good thrillers. Chicago was alright; Bringing Up Baby is a classic, and you gotta love Robin Williams in Good Morning Vietnam.

[SIREN30]

87. Office Space (1999)

synopsis: Peter Gibbons lives the life of an office drone...and hates it. When the company informs its employees that a massive downsizing is approaching, he and his two friends scheme to pull illegal funds out of the corporation as payback.

I don't expect anyone to understand why I rate this movie so highly. I know that it's not considered a great film by most and I am absolutely aware that it's infererior by industry standards. But I worked for a collection agency for ten years and this movie is, in my opinion, one of the funniest ever made. I can completely identify with Peter and his lack of enthusiasm, his detestable boss, and his mundane cubicle existence. The 'Bobs' have been to my company too. And we have a Milton. And the birthday cake is never big enough. And yes, we have 'hawaiian shirt day'. Peter's actions, after being hypnotized, are the epitomized dream of everyone who has ever been an office drone. I love everything about it.




favorite scene: Peter has his desk scattered with cheetos. He has knocked down one entire wall of his cubicle. He is playing Tetris on his computer. And when his boss attempts to reprimand him, he tells him "I'm gonna have to ask you to go ahead and come back another time.' Classic. :D

http://faculty-staff.ou.edu/B/Tiya.D.Bolding-2/officespace4.jpg

[bigred760]

I have a question: the title of this thread . . . did you mean "bandwagon?"

Office Space - funny ass movie.

[SIREN30]

86. The African Queen (1951)

synopsis: At the start of World War 1, Charlie Allnut is using his old steamer, The African Queen, to ferry supplies to villages in East Africa. When the Rev. Samual Sayer dies, Charlie agrees to take Sayers' sister, Rose, back to civilization. taking on the Germans at the same time.

You gotta love Charlie Allnut. Even though Rose doesnt care for him at first, even she succumbs to the ol' gin swiller's charm. The love story is endearing and believeable , all the time giving us the pleasure of a thrilling boatride. Throw some great cinematography into the mix, and you've got cinemagic. :p


favorite scene: They fall in love. Rose calls Mr Allnut 'dear'...and then discovers she doesnt know his first name. I've never heard anything so sweetly delivered.

http://www.gettingunstuck.com/Film/Classic_Cinema/Classic_Images/African_Queen.jpg

[SIREN30]

Originally posted by bigred760
I have a question: the title of this thread . . . did you mean "bandwagon?"

Office Space - funny ass movie.

DOH! Me and my proofreading. :rolleyes:

Oh well, we'll just pretend it was on purpose. I'm makin' up a new word...yeah, that's it.

[SIREN30]

85. Becket (1964)



synopsis: King Henry II of England (Peter O'Toole) has trouble with the Church. When the Archbishop of Canterbury dies, he has a brilliant idea. Rather than appoint another pious cleric loyal to Rome and the Church, he will appoint his old drinking and wenching buddy, Thomas Becket(Richard Burton), technically a deacon of the church, to the post. Unfortunately, Becket takes the job seriously and provides abler opposition to Henry than his predecessors were able to do. This leads to the famous "Who will rid me of this turbulent priest?"

THis is a heartbreaking tale of friends taken advatage of, loyalty, and politcal intrigue. My father introduced me to this about ten years ago and i will never forget it. It contains some of the most brilliant acting I've ever seen...principally by Burton, closely followed by O'Toole. I prefer it to The Lion in Winter, myself; they are somewhat similar in nature. I believe O'toole is even playing the same king.

Favorite scene: The end of this movie is about as powerful as it gets.



http://www.cinemarts.com/itemimages/item_166_1.jpg

[SIREN30]

84. High Noon (1952)

synopsis: A retiring lawman (Gary Cooper) about to leave town with his new bride (Grace Kelly) seeks allies among the fearful townspeople when an outlaw he put in prison returns with his gang to take revenge in this classic western

I love the quiet,unpretentious confidence of this movie. It doesnt pretend to be anything other than it is...the underdog facing dramatic odds who refuses to compromise his principles. The recurrence of the theme song 'Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling' is the soundtrack of the film and plays alternately as love theme, death march, and heroic anthem. Grace Kelly is also at her most exquisite-almost annoyingly so.

Favorite Scene: Will's lone march down the street as the ominous train arrives.



http://www.sensesofcinema.com/images/28/high_noon_cooper_kelly.jpg

[SIREN30]

83. The Road Home (1999)

synopsis: City businessman Luo Yusheng returns to his home village in North China for the funeral of his father, the village teacher. He finds his elderly mother insisting that all the traditional burial customs be observed, despite the fact that times have changed so much, and that it involves many people carrying his father's body back to the village - the road home. As Yusheng debates the complications involved in organising such a big feat, he remembers the magical story of how his father and mother first met and got together.


Admittedly, I was 8 months pregnant the first time I saw this-so the waterworks at the end were understandable. But my non-multiplying self saw it again about six weeks ago and it affected me just as strongly. It is absolutely the most beautiful love story I've seen in years. The fact that it is completely pure is also very appealing to me. The couple never even touch. But the love they feel is so electric and Zhang Ziyi is so beautiful that it is doesnt fail to move. This is a love story unlike any other and a wonderufl way to introduce yourself to the flawless direction of Zhang Yimou.

favorite scene: Luo's mother hears her son's voice teaching-watch it and you'll see what I mean.

http://www.kino-passau.de/Archiv/Filme2/h_n/bilder/Heimweg_the_road_home_poster.jpg

[SIREN30]

82. A Man for All Seasons (1966)

synopsis: Henry VIII (Robert Shaw) wants to divorce his wife, and seeks the approval of the aristocracy. Sir Thomas More (Paul Scofield) is a man of principle and reason, and is thus placed in a difficult position: should he stand up for his principles, risking the wrath of a corrupt King fond of executing people for treason? Or should he bow to the seemingly unstoppable corruption of Henry VIII, who has no qualms about bending the law to suit his own needs?

There are very few performances that can hold a candle to Paul Scofield's Thomas More. Being a person of strong religious conviction myself, I felt a special kinship w/ this man of history. His principles are pure and his reason is intelligent. It is a fantastic story that sinks all the deeper because of it's truth. Brilliant movie.

Favorite Scene: This is a movie about dialogue. And this is my favorite line: ' Oh? And when the last law was down, and the Devil turned 'round on you, where would you hide, Roper, the laws all being flat? This country is planted thick with laws, from coast to coast, Man's laws, not God's! And if you cut them down, and you're just the man to do it, do you really think you could stand upright in the winds that would blow then? Yes, I'd give the Devil benefit of law, for my own safety's sake! '



http://www.tudorplace.com.ar/Pelicula/ManSeasons02.JPG

[SIREN30]

81. Dr Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb. (1964)


synopsis: Those crazy Americans and their doomsday machines. Starring Peter Sellers, Peter Sellers, Peter Sellers, and George C Scott. :D

I love a movie that can sufficiently make light of nuclear war and the mayhem therein. I also love a movie that can make light of death (Harold and Maude, anyone?). This one does it better than any, using hilarity and mind-blowing performances alike. Gotta adore that Peter Sellars in all his crazy glory.

favorite scene: Slim Pickens ridin' his warhead, of COURSE.



http://www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/dr-strangelove-DVDcover.jpg

[SIREN30]

80. The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945)

synopsis: A corrupt young man somehow keeps his youthful beauty, but a special painting gradually reveals his inner ugliness to all. Based on the story by Oscar Wilde and starring George Sanders, Hurd Hatfield, and Angela Lansbury. Directed by Albert Lewin

This movie sincerely threw me for a loop. It might just be me, but it seems very ahead of it's time, especially with its use of brilliant color on the dreaded portrait and candid handling of mendacity. I have a deep abiding love for George Sanders and his sinister, devilish (no pun intended) Henry Wotten further clinched my good opinion. I've often wondered what happened to Hurd Hatfield. His angellic face and macabre attitude were very disturbing. This is a horror movie that reveals itself to be both smart and harrowing. Angela Lansbury is also lovely in this, one of her very first films.

favorite scene: THere is a brilliant scene in which Dorian realizes the picture has changed. It is barely a smirk but it is extremely unnerving. He hides it away and begins to plan his life-creeps me out.

http://gayinfo.tripod.com/dorian1.jpg

[Deadite914]

arther - 8/10
the fugitive - 9/10
chicago - 3/10
Office Space - 10/10
the african queen - 8/10
high noon - 8/10
the road house - 7.5/10
dr.strangelove - 11/10

[TylerDurden182]

Arthur- 7/10
Fugitive- 8/10
Charade- 8/10
Chicago- 3/10
Bringing Up Baby- 9/10
The Apartment- 9/10
Office Space- 8/10
The African Queen- 9/10
High Noon- 8/10
Dr. Strangelove- 10/10

[SIREN30]

79. The Last of the Mohicans (1992)

synopsis: As the English and French soldiers battle for control of the North American colonies in the 18th century, the settlers and native Americans are forced to take sides. Cora and her sister Alice unwittingly walk into trouble but are saved by Hawkeye, an orphaned settler adopted by the last of the Mohicans.

Michael Mann brought this one home! From the fantastic opening shot to the final triumphant bit of dialogue, it is just luscious. I saw this one 10 times at the theater in 1992/93. I couldnt get enough of the love story, then. I still think it's the best onscreen kiss EVAH! But now, I appreciate other aspects. The sound is incredible, the score is one of my all time favorites, Wes Studi gives me friggin' chills, and Daniel Day Louis is extremely believeable. I also find the violence to be quite tasteful, realstic without glorifying the acts. There are characterization flaws here and there, but otherwise and overwhelmingly-it's a perfect movie.


Favorite scene: I love the conversation in the glen between Cora and Hawkeye-and the music lends an almost other-worldly quality to the scene


http://aaddl.pro.tok2.com/photo/lotm24s111.jpg

[SIREN30]

78. Schindler's List (1993)

synopsis: Oskar Schindler uses Jews to start a factory in Poland during the war. He witnesses the horrors endured by the Jews, and starts to save them.

Very little explanation is necessary. It's not as much a joy to watch as it is a work of art. The whole package is remarkable but it's the little things I appreciate the most: the little girl in the red coat, the ashes settling like snow, Oscar's little foibles that somehow made him more human. The obvious effects of the black and white direction and the fantastic performances are of course, icing on the cake

. Favorite Scene: The liittle girl in the red coat. I know it is extremely sad but it's supposed to be, isnt it?

http://www.sensesofcinema.com/images/27/spielberg/schindlers_list.jpg

[bigred760]

Last of the Mohicans - 9/10; one of Michael Mann's underrated movies. The movie's cinematography and score add to the movie's suspense and action. The performances are excellent and the direction proves that Michael Mann can do little wrong in any genre.

[SIREN30]

77. Harvey (1950)

synopsis: Elwood P. Dowd (James Stewart) is a mild-mannered, pleasant man, who just happens (he says) to have an invisible friend resembling a 6-foot rabbit.

1950 was just a great year for movies. THis little gem is so unlikely to be reckoned a classic, considering the plot and its simplicity. But it truly is a classic. James Stewart is at his loveable best and Josephine Hull is just as memorable. What does Elwood say? 'There are two routes to life: be smart or be pleasant.' I'll take the latter any day. It's hard to explain how great this movie really is. At the very least, it's life-affirming.

Favorite scene: The introduction of Harvey to Dr Chumley.


http://www.classicmoviecorner.com/images/harvey.jpg

[SIREN30]

76. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

synopsis: Dorothy Gale is swept away to a magical land in a tornado and embarks on a quest to see the Wizard who can help her return home. Starring Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger

Some movie move you as a child and then, as an adult, you find them wanting. The Wizard of Oz is still marvelous. Ray Bolger stands out to me now as quite astounding in his abilities and the color on the new dvd translation is almost blinding in it's brilliance. Gorgeous film, always. I still find myself staring open-mouthed at munchkin land, wanting to LIVE there. And when you put it in sync with Pink Floy'd The Dark Side of the Moon-it takes on a whole alternate meaning. :D



Favorite Scene: "If I Only Had a Brain'.


http://thewizardofoz.warnerbros.com/movie/img/photos/photo11.jpg

[SIREN30]

75. Witness (1985)

synopsis: A young Amish boy is sole witness to a murder; policeman John Book goes into hiding in Amish country to protect him until the trial.

Peter Weir, once again, hits it out of the park. This movie has so many great elements. The main attraction is , to me, the respectful way in which the Ahmish community is addressed. I enjoy the quiet moments at the beginning that seem almost reverent in their construction. The murder, from Lucas Haas' big-eyed viewpoint, is disturbing in the extreme. The love story is delicately handled and never overdone, so that the film's conclusion is significant. The music is dated now, speaking as it does of eighties synthisizers and such-but still effective. It's one of the best films to come out of a decade so replete with eye-candy.

Favorite scene: When Samual Lapp discovers the killer's photo at the police station-and it's not in the books.

http://www.padutchcountry.com/witness/images/book_rachel_kitchen.jpg

[SIREN30]

74. 12 Angry Men (1957)

synopsis: A dissenting juror in a murder trial slowly manages to convince the others that the case is not as obviously clear as it seemed in court.

One room dramas can be tricky but this one flows along like the breeze the jurors wish they had. :) (Is that dramatic or what?) Henry Fonda is at his absolute best here; I wonder if he's ever been better. The manner in which in story unfolds, with each piece of evidence being put through the wringer, is undoubtedly it's main draw. The heat of the day, the shortened tempers of the jurors (especially Lee J Cobb), and the obvious class predjudice involved also lend a very uneasy feeling to the experience. There are few movies out there that can accomplish so much with so few ingredients.

Favorite scene: Juror number 3 buckles!!! :cool:

http://hoopla.nu/films/tam/tam_3.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Last of the Mohicans- 8/10
Schindler's List- 10/10
Harvey- 8/10
Wizard of Oz- 7/10
Witness- 8/10
12 Angry Men- 9/10

[Deadite914]

last of the mohicans - 8/10
schindler's list - 10/10
harvy - 9/10
wiz o' oz - 5/10
12 angrey - 10/10

[Hannibal21]

I'm digging your list, Siren. Lots of great classics here! :)

The Fugitive - 8/10
Charade - 8/10
Chicago - 9/10
Bringing Up Baby - 10/10
The Apartment - 9.5/10
Office Space - 8/10
The African Queen - 10/10
Becket - 8/10
High Noon - 9/10
The Road Home - 9/10 (I always smile when someone recognizes the brilliance of Zhang Yimou when he's not doing forgettable action fluff like 'Hero' and 'House of Flying Daggers' :))
Dr. Strangelove - 10/10 (took me more than one viewing to warm up to this one, now I can definitely see where all the praise is coming from and why so many people consider this to be one of the funniest movies ever)
The Picture of Dorian Gray - 9/10
Schindler's List - 10/10
Harvey - 9/10
The Wizard of Oz - 7/10 (I don't think this has aged well at all, unfortunately :()
Witness - 8.5/10
12 Angry Men - 9.5/10
Most of the ones I didn't rate indicates that I really need to see them again.

[ilovemovies]

From what I've seen:

The Fugitive 9/10
Chicago 9/10
Office Space 7/10
The Last of the Mohicans 9/10*
Schindler's List 10/10
The Wizard of Oz 9/10
Witness 9/10


Great list so far.

* = I need to rewatch, been a long time.


Surprised to see Schindler's List ranked so low.

[ilovemovies]

Originally posted by Hannibal21



The Wizard of Oz - 7/10 (I don't think this has dated well at all, unfortunately :()




Funny, because of all the classics, I think it's the one that has aged the best (with the exception of Casablanca) from the classics that I have seen.

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Hannibal21
I'm digging your list, Siren. Lots of great classics here! :)


I second that.

I swear, 12 Angry Men is one awesome movie. I love this movie. I watch it everytime it's on TCM. 10/10 from me.

[SIREN30]

Originally posted by ilovemovies
From what I've seen:

The Fugitive 9/10
Chicago 9/10
Office Space 7/10
The Last of the Mohicans 9/10*
Schindler's List 10/10
The Wizard of Oz 9/10
Witness 9/10


Great list so far.

* = I need to rewatch, been a long time.


Surprised to see Schindler's List ranked so low.

When you have a list of 100 perfect movies, it's very difficult to put them in order-this far down anyway. They are kind of in order based on how much I'd like to see them again at this stage. Schindler's is difficult for me to watch so it's a-ways down.

[ThirdOuting]

This is shaping up to be a very nice list. Really happy to some some of your choices being The African Queen, The Red Shoes, A Man For All Seasons, Harvey, Dr. Strangelove.

[SIREN30]

73. The Truman Show (1998)

synopsis: Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey) lives a happy life. However, what he doesn't know is that his life is actually the focus of a reality TV show aired since his birth, that he's the star, his hometown is a giant set piece, and everyone around him is an actor going by a script.

I'm trying not to over-do the Peter Weir love, here. But come ON. How could I not gush over this one? The story idea is entirely original (based on the world's fixaction with reality t.v.), the acting is incredible-principally by Ed Harris as Christov, and the entire execution is pretty much perfect. Add to that the wonderful surprise of Jim Carrey's dramatic prowess, the 'real world' interviews that show Truman's effect on society, and the sweet comedic overtones and you've got one great movie.



Favorite Scene: I have a tie here: Truman's discovery that he 'controls' the world while walking in traffic and Christov caressing Truman's face (on screen) while he sleeps. The score by Phillip Glass carries these scenes, I believe.


http://www.newint.org/issue308/Images/truman.jpg

[Monotreme]

Oh thank god somebody else on this board loves The Truman Show as much as I do. I think it's a severely underrated film. People are daunted by its initial strangeness and miss the brilliant subtext, message, metaphors, symbolism, and all the other elements that make this one of the richest films I've ever seen. The screenplay is brilliant.

9/10, #83 on my top 100.

[TylerDurden182]

Truman Show- 9/10

[SAI]

94. Emma (1996): N/A
93. Arthur! (1981): N/A
92. The Fugitive (1993): 4/5
91. Charade (1963): 5/5
90. Chicago (2002): 3/5
89. Bringing Up Baby (1938): 5/5 (In my top 10)
88. The Apartment (1960): 3/5
87. Office Space (1999): N/A
86. The African Queen (1951): 4/5
85. Becket (1964): N/A
84. High Noon (1952): N/A
83. The Road Home (1999): 5/5 (Probably due a place in my list next revision)
82. A Man for All Seasons (1966): N/A
81. Dr Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb. (1964): N/A (I know, i know)
80. The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945)N/A
79. The Last of the Mohicans (1992): Haven't seen this for an age, needs a rewatch.
78. Schindler's List (1993): 5/5
77. Harvey (1950): 5/5
76. The Wizard of Oz (1939): Needs a rewatch for grading
75. Witness (1985): 4/5
74. 12 Angry Men (1957): 5/5 (In my top 20)
73. The Truman Show (1998): 5/5

Well... I've got some catching up to do, clearly, but this is a GREAT list so far Siren, of those that I've seen everything is, for me, average or better and you can bet that I'll be usng this as a guide to which classics I ought to seek out.

[Deadite914]

truman show - 11/10 one of my favorites

[SIREN30]

72. High Society (1956)

synopsis: A musical remake of The Philadelphia Story. C.K Dexter-Haven, a famous jazz musician, attempts to win back his ex wife, Tracey Samantha Lords before she is married to 'square' George Kittredge. Chaos reigns in the form of 'magazine people', shifty uncles, and silly sisters. Starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra.

This is the musical for anyone who hates musicals. Cole Porter wrote these tunes specifically for the film and its superstars. You will never forget Bing and Frank boozing it up in 'Did You Evah?'. 'True Love', the honeymoon song performed by Bing and Grace became a huge hit and is absolutely beautiful. And my personal favorite received no acclaim at all-'Samantha', sung by Bing Crosby and featuring the music of Louis Armstrong. It is my favorite Crosby vocal performance ever. The story is failsafe as it is almost identical word for word to The Philadelphia Story (don't worry, that one's on my list too). Even though Katherine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and Jimmy Stewart originated the roles-these three veterans have great fun sinking their teeth into their respective characters. Kelly has the most fun with it and she is a hoot. It's hard to forget her drunk scene because she manages to be even more charming than is typical. Frank Sinatra and Celeste Holm are also a kick, though their chemistry suffers compared to that of Jimmy Stewart and Ruth Hussey in the non-musical version. The costumes and sets are also lovely.

Favorite Scene: I'm very partial to the 'bachelorette' party. Though it doesnt include my favorite song of the film, it contains the funniest dialogue.


http://www.filmlinc.com/wrt_old/programs/7-2005/jpegs/bing-high-society.gif

[ThirdOuting]

Originally posted by SAI
81. Dr Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb. (1964): N/A (I know, i know)


You will love it. I can't believe I put it off for so long. You're doing yourself no good!

[SIREN30]

71.Psycho (1960)

synopsis: Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), having just stolen a large ammount of money, seeks refuge in a quiet out-of-the way motel. The Bates Motel is run by hot hermit, Norman, and his invalid mother. Just in case you didnt know, the heroine of the picture DIES less than halfway in. ;)


There will never be another movie like this. From the opening credits and their schizo music to the final conclusion and that creepy skull transposed over Norman's face-it rocks. All parts are well-played but Anthon Perkins will go down in history as the most charming psychotic ever to grace the screen (followed closely by Hopkins, people). I've seen this one in the double digits as well, and every time-I feel nervous as hell. That chair swiveling around...? :eek:

Favorite Scene: The movie is pretty much one great scene so let's just confine it to a favorite shot. I adore the shot where Arbogast is showing Norman the guest book. The camera starts on the page, goes up to Normans face and pans under his chin as he looks at the page. His adams apple convulses majestically. Unbelieveable.

Honorable mention: I just have to say, last year I saw Hitchocock's Shadow of a Doubt and the only reason it's not on this list is because I can't figure out what to eliminate. But I had to mention it here.


http://www.meredy.com/vinbw/psycho.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Psycho- 10/10

[SIREN30]

70. Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)

synopsis: A drama critic learns on his wedding day that his beloved maiden aunts are homicidal maniacs, and that insanity runs in his family.

The first of Frank Capra's movies to appear on my countdown. This one is, in my opinion, the quintessential screwball comedy. I defy you to find a sane person in the bunch! Priscilla Lane, DOLL that she is, comes pretty close but even she waxes a bit unstable by the end of the film. Cary Grant is at his zany best and how can you not just adore his crazy family? Even his hilariously macabre brother, Jonathan, holds a certain charm. Then you've got Mr Witherspoon, Officer Saunders (the inept policeman whose also a playwright), and Peter Lorre's gut wrenchingly funny Dr Einstein to handle! I never fail to laugh out loud, even after 15+ viewings.


Favorite Scene: THe entire madcap finale. But Mortimer's discovery of the body in the window seat is one of the best scenes in any comedy.



http://web.ukonline.co.uk/diane.lane/scansl/lanep/arsenico.jpg

[SIREN30]

69. The Incredibles (2004)

synopsis: A family of undercover superheroes, while trying to live the quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world.

My personal pick for the masterpiece of the DIsney/Pixar collaborations. I will not forget how astonished I was when this one came out. It seemed so far and away from the other films in that the humor is much more adult, the retro atmosphere appeals to my classic movie taste, and the characters are so wonderful. Jason Leigh as Syndrome and Holly Hunter as Elastigirl stand out the most to me but I was surprised how engaging Craig T Nelson was in his voice ability. It requires acting in every sense of the term to accomplish what these guys achieve. The colors, of course, are brilliant beyond belief and in my opinion the action is volumes ahead of any annimated film I've seen. Stunning and a great ride.

Favorite Scene: I almost die every time Dash figures out he can run on water. That whole scene is a blast!



http://www.freenyc.net/archives/theincredibles.jpg

[SIREN30]

68. Cool Hand Luke (1967)

synopsis: A man refuses to conform to life in a rural prison


MMMMMMM. Siren loves her Paul Newman. Not only was he "david' personified, but he could act like nobody's business. :D THis movie has always been one of my favorite 'Newmies' because it required so much more than a pretty face. He had to be gritty, real, and sometimes a bit disgusting (the fifty eggs turns me stomach). It's a movie that moves the viewer to tears, to laughter, to soul-searching all in one blow. Great supporting performances are also evident throughout the whole movie. And how could I not give an honorable mention to the hot blonde and her amazing breastessness. :D

favorite scene: Hard to say without spoiling it. 'yes boss...' 'yes boss'....'right away boss'...click click VROOOOOOOM!


http://www.postcardsfromprison.com/p7805.jpg

[SIREN30]

67. Howard's End (1992)

synopsis: Encounter of three social classes of the England at the beginning of the century : the victorian capitalists (the Wilcoxes) considering themselves as aristocrats, whose only god is money ; the enlightened bourgeois (the Schlegels), humanistic and philanthropist ; and the workers (the Basts), fighting to survive. The Schlegel sisters' humanism will be torn apart as they try both to softly knock down the Wilcox's prejudices and to help the Basts.

Emma Thompson is one of my very favorite actresses and this role, as Margaret Schlegel is one of her very best roles. Her face is a veritable kaleidoscope of emotions. She can convey absolute joy, sympathy, despair, and anger with such seeming ease. There is a reason she won the oscar. This movie is an exercise in cinematic perfection for the period drama. The acting is flawless all around-by the principal leads especially. THe costumes and sets are comfortable and easy but always stunning. The cinematography is unbelieveable-particulary in the scene with the cornflowers. Merchant Ivory movies are not to everyone's taste but I think they are the masters of the genre.


Favorite scene: Leonard Bast wandering through the cornflowers. The stuff of dreams. (sigh)



]http://www.kinopolis.de/filminfo/w/img/howardsend.jpg

[SIREN30]

66. Tengoku to jigoku (High and Low) (1963)

synopsis: An executive mortgages all he owns to stage a coup and gain control of the National Shoe Company, with the intent of keeping the company out of the hands of incompetent and greedy executives. He needs the same money, though, to pay the ransom that will possibly save a child's life. His resolution of that dilemma -- the certain loss of the company vs. the probable loss of the child -- makes for one distinct drama, and an ensuing elaborate police procedure makes for a second.

The only Kurosawa film to appear in my countdown, High and Low, is an honest and painful depiction of loyalty, trust, sadness, and morality. It transcends all cultures, cultivating instead the study of class. Toshiro Mifune is an absolutely incredible actor and when faced with the stunning twist that appears only a few minutes into the film, he reacts like we all would. Human first...then humane. THere is also a mind-blowing depiction of the Japanese underworld late in the film that rivals anything along these lines today. The soundtrack for this scene is a woman's labored breathing-and it gives chills. I strongly recommend this to anyone who enjoys human drama-especially as conceived by Kurosawa.

favorite scene: The initial twist. The acting is great. The direction is better.

http://www.tk-web.com/report/kurosawa/images/tengoku.JPG

[SIREN30]

65. Oliver! (1968)


synopsis: Musical adaptation about an orphan who runs away from an orphanage and hooks up with a group of boys trained to be pickpockets by an elderly mentor.

The story of Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens is a great literary work of art. But, in my opinion, it took the musical numbers in this movie to bring it home visually. This is one of world's greatest musicals. Not only are the songs superb but the acting is also great, particularly by Ron Moody who plays an absolutely brilliant Fagin. 'Pick a Pocket or Two' is so successful as a number because Moody has the ability to be despicable and charming simultaneously. The greatest vocal delivery of the film belongs to Harry Secombe and his huge voice-in 'Boy for Sale'. Other great songs, 'Consider Yourself', 'It's a fine life' (Shani Wallis is a fiery Nancy), 'Who Will Buy'-are what make this a classic of the genre. But the story-even with the elaborate dance sequences-survives all of this and remains dark in nature. Oliver Reed (and his piercing blue eyes) chews up the scenery as Bill Sykes, one of the best 'baddies' to grace the screen. Mark Lester is a bit flat but still manages to wring the sympathy from my heart and Jack Wilde is great as the Dodger.

Favorite Scene: 'I'd Do Anything' and all it represents.

http://62.216.169.125/pack_shots/1/packshot_12726_1.jpg

[SIREN30]

64. Dr Zhivago (1965)

synopsis: Life of a Russian doctor/poet who, although married, falls for a political activist's wife and experiences hardships during the Bolshevik Revolution.

I usually don't give a super-high rating to a movie that I disagree with morally. That is, when a man (or a woman) has a perfectly lovely spouse, a happy family life etc, and throws it all away for passion. But to me, this movie is not about the love story-though most would disagree. It is about the Bolshevik Revolution and the Russian way of life at this time. And on THAT count, this movie is a rousing suceess. As a political character study-it is absolute perfection. The score, the snow, the direction-these all mix to make the movie the experience that it is. Though the two leads are extremely good-it is Guiness and Steiger who deliver the oscar-worthy performances. Both are so well fleshed-out and alive, to me.On a cosmetic note, I also love the brilliant reds and yellows that pop against the freezing monotones.

Favorite scene: The revelation that is Strelnekoff!

http://www.mvps.org/st-software/Movie_Collection/images/9436f.jpg

[SIREN30]

63. Citizen Kane (1941)

synopsis: Following the death of a publishing tycoon, news reporters scramble to discover the meaning of his final utterance.

Has anyone else noticed how many great (and we're talking to the 'nth' degree, here) movies Joseph Cotton has starred in? Check out his filmography-it's incredible, really. Especially since he's never won an oscar. Anyway, this is THE Citizen Kane, isnt it? The grandaddy of all independant film...the 'best movie of all time' according to many sources. I've seen it three times and this is my take: While it doesnt effect me emotionally like many other films-on an artistic level, nobody can touch it. The acting is all very good, of course, but every one of the stars have had better roles. It's just that Welles had a gift for contrivance. The story is told in such a way that the viewer just can't look away. It has some of the most beautiful shots in film history and the fact that the lead character is somewhat unlikeable matters not. It's a character study thick in substance and rich in art.

favorite scene: I really don't watch this movie for 'love', so I don't really have a favourite scene. But I could never stop watching it once I started, so I guess the whole thing would qualify.

http://www.aci.on.ca/~rosebud/home/kane-collage.jpg

[Deadite914]

psycho - 10/10
incredibales - don't remember the movie enough
cool hand luke - 9/10
citizen kane - 10/10

abstain the rest

[Cronos]

Arthur - 5/10
The Fugitive - 9/10
Chicago - 2/10
The Apartment - 9/10
Office Space - 10/10
Dr Strangelove - 9/10
Last Of The Mohicans - 8/10
Schindler's List - 9/10
Harvey - 10/10
Wizard Of Oz - 6/10
Witness - 7/10
12 Angry men - 8/10
Truman Show - 10/10
Psycho - 9/10
The Incredibles - 10/10
Cool Hand Luke - 8/10
Oliver - 3/10
Citizen Kane - 6/10

[TylerDurden182]

Arsenic and Old Lace- 9/10
Incredibles- 8/10
Cool Hand Luke- 9/10
High and Low- 8/10
Doctor Zhivago- 8/10
Citizen Kane- 10/10

[SIREN30]

62. Babette's Feast (1987)

synopsis: Babbette, a french refugee, seeks shelter with two adult sisters in an isolated Danish village. She offers to be their cook and become one of the family. When the sisters decide to host a dinner to commemorate the 100th anniversary of their father's birth, Babbette takes charge...with delightful results.

The movie that services me two ways-my love of great cinema and great food. As a movie, it is brilliant all by itself. The acting is superb, writing is fresh, and direction is magnificent. The characterizations are all very detailed and elaborate-giving the viewer ample time to know the players before the film reaches it's subject matter. Babbette's feast, however, is the real star of the movie. My mouth waters just thinking about it. And the effect her cooking has on the members of this austere little community will always make you smile. Stephane Audran is lovely as Babette, a quiet woman with lots of spirit. The whole movie is deeply beautiful to watch and fun to recall.

favorite scene: I love the entire dinner. That scene is one of my all time favorite scenes of any movie.


http://www.themediadrome.com/Images/movies/babette_feast_2.jpg

[SIREN30]

61. Henry V(1989)

synopsis: The gritty adaption of William Shakespeare's play about the English King's bloody conquest of France.

I love when a director is not afraid to take Shakespeare and run with it. When you think of Shakespeare as a stage play (as it was originally intended), it sometimes feels somewhat claustrophobic in nature. Not so with this adaption of Henry V-brought grittily and largely to life by Kenneth Brannagh. THe opening sequence-an exciting and energy-charged narrative by Derek Jakobi-is somewhat surprising. It is not exactly what the reader would imagine when reading the lines designated 'Chorus' in the play. But it works-beautifully. Kenneth Brannagh delievers a stunning one-of-a-kind performance. He is a worthy king and a great man. Brian Blessed, Ian Holm, Paul Scofield-the shakepearean royalty goes on and on. And Emma Thompson is astonishing as french princess Katherine-hardly speaking a word of english-with no subtitles-and still managing to make us love her.
The battle of Agincourt and its rousing score are likewise memorable.

favorite scene: The Wooing of Katherine-'we are the makers of manners, Kate'. :)


http://departments.ozarks.edu/hfa/jwalden/history/movie_images/henry_v.jpg

[SIREN30]

60. The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)

synopsis: The story is a complicated psychological plot set in Indonesia during the overthrow of the rule of President Sukarno. It follows a group of expatriate journalists in Jakarta before and around a supposed coup attempt by the Communist Party of Indonesia on September 30, 1965. These events were pivotal in shaping the modern history of Indonesia.

It's funny to me that this film was marketed as a love story. Even the cover shows Sigourney and Mel passionately embracing amid wartorn Indonesia. In reality this is a taut political drama surrounding the pivotal changes in Indonesian government during the late 1960's. Mel Gibson is gorgeous and does well but the success of this movie does not hang on his performance. He plays Guy Hamilton, a reporter sent to cover the unrest who promptly becomes friendly with photographer Billy Kwan and fellow reporter, Jill Bryant. Linda Hunt is completely unrecognizeable in the male role of Billy and pulls off one of the bravest and best acting jobs in history. The love angle, between Guy and Jill Bryant (passionately played by Sigourney Weaver) is only of minimal interest in all this choas. But it is still interesting and handled very well due to the deft direction by Peter Weir.

favorite scene: Guy and Billy meet. Billy makes this profound statement.' If it's in focus, it's pornography. If it's out of focus, it's art.' ;)


http://cache.indemand.com/shared/prod/23072_inhd.jpg

[SIREN30]

59. Places in the Heart (1984)

synopsis: In 1930's Southern US, a widow and her family try to run their cotton farm with the help of a disparate group of friends.

Occasionally, you see a movie as a child and you love it for life. I saw this at the theater when i was nine. I really loved it, even then. But now, as an adult, I recognize and appreciate different things than I did at the time. This movie was oscar nominated in several categories but when the great movies of the eighties are mentioned, this one seldom comes up. Perhaps it is an uncomfortable subject matter (dealing as it does with racial relations among other things) for some people. Perhaps it is to quiet a film to break away from the pack of action flicks and romantic comedies that dominated the decade. But it is a wonderful piece of work, undoubtedly. Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, and Danny Glover all make a great impact in their respective roles. But Sally Field and John Malcovich are the winners here. They both give their characters such heart and soul. I've always felt as if I knew Edna Spalding from somewhere-she seems so familiar to me. Malcovich-as a blind lodger in Edna's home-has the flashiest part. He handles it brilliantly. There is so much love that was evidently poured into this movie-into its sets, its music, its believeable dialogue. I wish more people knew about it.

And by the way, I feel I really must set the record straight on Sally Field's Oscar acceptance speech, which is often misquoted. It sounds a lot more gracious when you read it verbatim: "This means so much more to me this time, I don't know why. I think the first time I hardly felt it because it was all too new. But I want to 'thank you' to you. I haven't had an orthodox career. And I've wanted more than anything to have your respect. The first time I didn't feel it. But this time I feel it. And I can't deny the fact that you like me... right now... you like me. Thank you."


favorite scene: 'Ms Spalding-what do you look like?'-Mr. Wil

http://www.movie-2-dvd.org/pic/platzimherzen-ft.jpg

[SIREN30]

58. Moonstruck (1987)

synopsis: A widowed Brooklyn book-keeper is torn between her fiancé and his brother.

This movie makes me so happy! It's one of the funniest movies I've ever seen with some of the best dialogue! On the complete opposite end of the spectrum from number 59, this one deals with life in New York-a place I have no affiliation with or affection for. However, my admiration for this cast of characters is untapped. I love every last one of them from the sweet little shop-keeping couple to the dog-walking old guy. The way in which the love story and family relationships play into the genuine comedy of the script always moves me-as do the great performances. I actually think Olympia Dukakis makes the biggest impact, though Cher, Cage and Gardinia run a close tie for second. Suffice it to say -this movie is magic. Never gets old. Never grows tiring. 'Ti Amo'.

favorite scene: There isnt one I could skip. But I've always loved the scene where Cosmo is trying to sell Copper pipes to the young couple: 'There are three kinds of pipe. There's aluminum, which is garbage. There's bronze, which is pretty good, unless something goes wrong. And something always goes wrong. Then, there's copper, which is the only pipe I use. It costs money. It costs money because it saves money'

http://www.acclaimposters.com/_gallery/large/10045193.jpg

[SIREN30]

57. Les Diaboliques (1955)

synopsis: The wife and mistress of a sadistic boarding schoolmaster conspire to do him in. Unfortunately, shortly after they bring the body back to campus, it disappears...with terrifying results.

Shiver Me Timbers. Creeeepiest movie I've ever seen, or close. The direction by Henri-Georges Clouzot leads the viewer through a maze of psychological terror, mindblowing suspense, and somehow-great beauty. The acting, mainly by Clouzet's own wife-Vera serves to completely draw you in-enmeshed as you are with her personal anxieties. Simone Signouret is likewise credible, though she's always been a little rough for my taste. There are a number of brilliant scenes-each segment of the film going deeper into the mystery and succeeding wholly in confusing and frightening its audience. I only wish there were more of these thrillers to inspire filmmakers today....and I don't mean mean by attempting an insipid remake (1996 Diabolique :( )

favorite scene: The end. And i mean, the END. The last line...perfect.


http://www.moviemail-online.co.uk/images/large/Les_Diaboliques-1_rgb.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Moonstruck- 6/10
Les Diaboliques- 9/10

[Hannibal21]

Psycho - 10/10
Arsenic and Old Lace - 8.5/10
The Incredibles - 6/10
Cool Hand Luke - 9/10
Howard's End - 9/10
Oliver! - 7/10
Citizen Kane - 10/10
Places in the Heart - 8/10
Moonstruck - 7/10
Diabolique - 9/10

[SIREN30]

56. Rear Window (1954)


synopsis: A wheelchair bound photographer spies on his neighbours from his apartment window and becomes convinced one of them has committed murder.

"Reading from top to bottom...Lisa...Carol...Freemont." My favorite screen entrance ever. That kiss, that dress. She's just cinematic perfection ...Grace Kelly, that is. I know this film is not Hitchcock's favorite. I know it is inferior to many of his others...but, so help me, it's the most fun to watch! The dialogue by John Michael Hayes is really wonderful and the fact that this movie is lighthearted and funny truly adds to its apeal. The man who entertains himself by looking in his neighbors' windows is automatically identifiable because all of us have a voyeuristic side and secretly, don't we all wish that our neighbors would do something naughty? There are so many great little stories going on that it's impossible to be impatient for the 'mystery' to start-but once it does, it's a blast. The last half hour of the movie is brilliant, claustrophobic, nonstop suspense. Once again, this is an entirely unique undertaking.


favorite scene: Lisa breaks into Thorwald's apartment.



http://www.moderntimes.com/palace/50_image/rear.jpg

[SIREN30]

55. Amadeus (1984)

synopsis: The incredible story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, told in flashback mode by Antonio Salieri - now confined to an insane asylum

The idea of placing super-American, Tom Hulce, in the role of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart sounded completely rediculous. Complaints came into the studio constantly from classical musc buffs everywhere. It was considered sacriliege. And then the movie was released (I was only nine so I read this in article, of course) and the complaints were largely silenced. Not only did Hulce do well;he did VERY well. But it was F. Murray Abraham that truly delivered. His performance is completely-stunningly-legendary. When I watch this movie, I enjoy the great direction, the beautiful sets, the elaborate costumes, the music...but, what really MOVES me, is Salieri. He is what pulls this film into my top 100.

favorite scene: Composing the requiem mass...leading into 'I absolve you...I absolve you.'

http://www.warnerbros.it/movies/amadeus/amadeus.jpg

[SIREN30]

54. My Fair Lady (1964)

synopsis: A misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor agrees to a wager that he can take a flower girl and make her presentable in high society.

Audrey Hepburn was very lucky. Even though she couldnt sing a lick, she still got the most sought after musical role at the time. The reason was simple: she was charming. Remember her first role in Roman Holiday? Charming. Remember Sabrina Fairchild? Charming. She was lovely, graceful, endearing, and she could ACT. But she couldnt sing- so enter again Marni Nixon-voiceover extroardinairre. No, the songs are not Audrey but Eliza is ALL Audrey. Her performance is exquisite and moving-strongly enhanced by the great direction of George Cukor. The costumes in this one are over-the-top but gorgeous. The sets are lavish works of art. It's not my favorite musical. It had to grow on me. But the two leads (can't leave out the great Rex Harrison) quickly brought me around.

favorite scene: Immediately following the musical number 'Without You', Professor Higgins turns to Eliza and says ' a moment ago you were a millstone around my neck and now you're a tower of strength...I LIKE you this way.' and she calmy says 'Goodbye Professor Higgins. You shall not be seeing me again.' A slap in the face to male egos everywhere. (We'll forget for a moment that she promptly returned to him. :rolleyes: )



http://www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/my-fair-lady-DVDcover.jpg

[SIREN30]

53. The Black Stallion (1979)

synopsis: A black stallion and young boy develop a strong attatchment when ,after a shipwreck, they are both stranded on the same desert island. When they are rescued, their relationship grows more intense as Alec trains his stallion for a big race. Mickey Rooney and Terri Garr star.


Carol Ballard has actually turned out three masterpieces dealing with animal/ human relationships. Fly Away Home and Duma are both gorgeously filmed and endlessly moving. But this movie is the crowning achievement of his selective career. For about 1/3 of the movie, we have absolutely no dialogue. And it's some of the most beautiful footage ever captured, in my opinion. I sometimes make the joke that Tom Hanks was given a Volleyball to befriend in Cast Away because Robert Zemeckis lacked the skills to make a success of no dialogue. Carol Ballard revels in it-and has done it since. The scenes of Alec and the Black on the island are unforgettable. But even though these are undoubtedly the artistic highlights of the movie, the scenes involving Mickey Rooney (as the gritty old horse trainer) are still classic. And of course that final breathless race that has brought so many to tears, cannot be overly praised.


favorite scene: The entire island sequence is equally impressive to me. But the race is also wonderful.

http://www.filmjunkies.net/dvd/dvd_ab/dvdblackstallion/dvdblackstallion.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Rear Window- 9/10
Amadeus- 9/10
My Fair Lady- 4/10

[SIREN30]

52. Searching for Bobby Fisher (1993)

synopsis: A prepubescent chess prodigy refuses to harden himself in order to become a champion like the famous but unlikable Bobby Fischer.


This is another wonderful movie that is often overlooked by critics in their consideration of great films of the 90's. It's really a shame because there are so many great elements to this one from which filmakers today can learn. The story, based on a real life chess prodigy, is captivating. Acting is very good, on all counts-but especially from the irrepressible Ben Kingsley. The movie manages to build suspense and great moments on minimal dialogue or movement. It is the story and the engaging performances that build the momentum. Giving the child geniuses lisps was also a nice touch. And for once, the children are NOT obnoxious. They have substance and realism. Max Pomeranc had an amazing face and showed such great promise, as an actor. The game of chess is given due respect and screen time in the film but never overdone-as the movie focuses more on the characters and their development than the actual playing of the game. It's a quiet film and a remarkable one.


Favorite Scene: I really enjoy watching Laurence Fishburne in this movie. So his scenes with Josh are my favorites.

http://www.aritearu.com/pic/Fischer3.jpg

[SIREN30]

51. Barefoot in the Park (1967)

synopsis: Paul Bratter, a conservative young lawyer, marries a vivacious young woman, Corrie. Their highly passionate relationship descends into comical discord in a five-flight New York City walk-up apartment.

My husband and I both agree that this is the best 'couple' movie out there. Neil Simon was just able to create some great stuff, wasnt he? The relationship between Corey and Paul Bratter rivals any onscreen chemistry there is, with very little physicality. Mildred Natwick is, as always, in top form as Corey's mother and Charles Boyer takes a surprisingly funny turn as the kooky upstairs neighbor after Corey's own heart. The double date is hilarious and Redford's drunk scene at the end never gets old. If you are newly married it is a must-see. If you have been married awhile, it's a must revisit. And if you plan on NOT getting married, well, maybe you can identify w/ the bohemian neighbor who likes to ogle Cory's legs. Any which way, you can't lose.

Favorite Scene: The fight. It's so great it needs an immediate rewind.

http://www.nostalgiacentral.com/images_movie/barefoot_01.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Searching For Bobby Fisher- 4/10

[SIREN30]

50. The Three Faces of Eve (1957)

synopsis: A doctor treats a woman suffering from Multiple Personality Disorder.

This movie was loosely based on the first clinically confirmed account of Multiple Personality Disorder. Is it a little morbid that it's so enteraining? Joanne Woodward pulls of one of my favorite female performances as Eve White, the belittled housewife whose husband seems rarely to notice her. After a while, Eve White begins to talk back, go on shopping sprees, and become an all around witchy-woman. Enter Eve Black. Joanne makes this so great because while she is called upon to play three different characters, she never goes over-the-top with her delivery. Jane, the most level-headed of the three personalities, is a perfect lady. Just the way you wish Eve could be. Throughout the movie you find yourself laughing, crying a little, and sincerely rooting for this troubled woman. Supporting performances are all fine as well and the dialogue is extremely well done.

favorite scene: The introduction of Eve Black to Dr Luther. Ham it up, girl. Ham it up. ;)

http://www.brightlightsfilm.com/37/37_images/BooksWhiteEve.jpg

[ilovemovies]

On a **** scale:

The Fugitive ****
Chicago ****
Office Space ***
The Last of the Mohicans ****
Schindler's List ****
The Wizard of Oz ****
Witness ****
The Truman Show ****
Psycho (1960) ***
The Incredibles ***
Citizen Kane ***
Moonstruck **
Searching for Bobby Fischer ***

[Hannibal21]

Rear Window - 9.5/10
Amadeus - 9.5/10
My Fair Lady - 9/10
Searching for Bobby Fiscer - 8.5/10
The Three Faces of Eve - 9/10

[SIREN30]

49. The Miracle Worker (1962)

synopsis: The story of Anne Sullivan's struggle to teach the blind and deaf Helen Keller how to communicate.

The opening scene of this movie, especially now that I'm a mother, makes my stomach turn. Something about the camera work and the acting just comes together to make this one of the more disturbing scenes I've viewed. From that point on, the film is an exercise in patience as Anne Sullivan (brilliant brilliant performance by Anne Bancroft) attempts different methods of communication with Helen. Their tumultuous journey is frantic and tiring-leaving the viewer wiped out by the end. But what a victorious and moving ending it is! I never fail to get choked up, even typing about it...ha. The black and white cinematography is some of the most beautiful I've seen-crisp, clear, balanced. One for the shelf.



favorite scene: The scene at the dinner table. My mother used to use this scene to show me the importance of good table manners....LOL

http://www.leonardmaltin.com/03-02-14/miracleWorker.jpg

[SIREN30]

48. Empire of the Sun (1987)



synopsis: A young English boy struggles to survive under Japanese occupation during World War II.

I'm not sure what it is about me and concentration camp movies. I think it's just an abiding admiration for the survival of humanity under such conditions. I also love tales of victory under duress, and this is one. Most people think it a bit 'sacreligious' that I place this film above Spielburg's other wartime masterpiece, Schindler's List. But I can't help it; I've loved this one longer and I like it more. I was 12 years old when this was released and I had a big crush on Jim (Christian Bale). I've watched this film many times since then and I've grown up with it, so to speak. It's a gorgeous epic that succeeds on all counts. The acting by Bale is so good, it's mind-blowing. Probably the best child performance I've seen. It made me a life-long fan (he's around my age...heh heh). Malcovich, Miranda Richardson, and Nigel Havers also impress-and their characters are well developed. The story is heartbreaking but life-affirming, since this child refuses to relinquish his optimism. The direction is smoothe and elegant, never sacrificing grace even in dire circumstances and bleak surroundings.



favorite scene: Jim is obsessed with planes and when they reach the prison camp, he is finally within 'touching' distance of his idol. It's extremely moving

http://www.albany.edu/writers-inst/graphics/empiresun2.gif

[SIREN30]

47. Hello Dolly (1969)

synopsis: Matchmaker Dolly Levi journies to Yonkers NY to handle a 'highly personal matter for Mr Horance Vandergelder-the well known unmarried half a millionaire'. In her attempts to catch Horace herself, she has to also arrange the lives of several naive and unstable people.

Gene Kelly was one of Hollywoods only quaduple-threats. This, his directorial debut, is the first appearance by Kelly on my countdown. Carol Channing badly wanted this role herself, having performed it on Broadway for some years, but Kelly and others thought her too old and too plain for the movie version. Barbara Steisand was cast after much debate. It was thought that her young age-she was 25- would be a factor in her ability to play a matronly lady...and it was her first movie, to boot. They padded her up and dressed her in 'mature' styles of the early 1900's. No one noticed. Because Barbara BROUGHT it. She is absolutely incredible in this role and you can tell when watching it that it is really a success of her own making. She is so natural that the age isnt even a factor, so busy are we in studying her mannerisms-her comedy-her fabulous voice. The costumes and sets are also spectacular. So much so, that we almost forget how rediculous Barb's supporting cast really is. The parts are so over the top, it's sometimes embarassing. We are asked to believe that pretty much everyone under the age of thirty is a registered idiot. Michael Crawford is a freak of nature. But it's okay. The wonderful dancing, choreographed by Michael Kidd, steals the show whenever Streisand's voice does not. And that's what musicals are all about. Losing yourself in a beautiful moment made perfect by song. Bravo, Gene!

favorite scene: 'Hello Dolly'. Barbara in her $8000 gold dress, horrible feathered headress, and Louis Armstrong in all his glory...brings tears to mine eyes. :D

http://www.moviesboom.com/images/film/full/1962_dolly1.jpg

[Monotreme]

That's already two films I was pleasantly surprised to see on your great list, SIREN30. The first was The Truman Show. And now you have Empire of the Sun, Steven Spielberg's MOST underrated movie and one of his best, really high up on your list. It is also one of my favourites, but most people either disagree or just haven't seen it. I think it's amazing, masterfully crafted and extremely clever. Glad to see it on your list, too :)

9/10 for it.

[Cronos]

Rear Window - 6/10
Amadeus - 9/10
Empire Of The Sun - 7/10

[SIREN30]

46. Sayonara (1957)

synopsis: American servicemen, stationed in Japan, fall inlove with Japanese nationals amid the dissaproval of many. Based on the novel by James Michener.

This is one of my favorite love stories. Brando delivers one of his best performances as Lloy Gruver, the southern bigot who slowly overcomes his upbringing and falls madly inlove with a Japanese national. Miko Taka is exquisite and her 'I will love you, if that is your desire' speech will move a heart of stone. She's very reminiscent of the new 'asian doll' Zhang Ziyi, physically. Though the blatant racial predjudices are difficult to watch at times, it teaches a wonderful lesson along the way. There is no barrier to love. The supporting performances of Miyoshi Umeki and Red Buttons are underplayed and excellent-deserving of their oscars. Though there are a few dark and tragic moments in this film, the underlying message is positive. The film is never dreary in nature, providing great comic relief with James Garner and brilliant cinematography.

favorite scene: Brando talking to a friend of Hana Ogi, trying to set up a date with her.

Famiku-san: '....you American man. And Hana Ogi-top girl. It never hop-pen.'

Lloyd: 'well, I am here to tell you that it is goin' to hop-pen '



http://images.heritagecoin.com/images/HNAI/75/55075/55075007011o.jpg

[SIREN30]

45.William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet (1996)

synopsis: Romeo from the family of Montague and Juliet of the Capulet's fall in love in spite of family strife. A modern and edgy take on the Shakespeare classic.

When this movie was released, the reviews were at opposite ends of the spectrum. Most critics would not rest on middle ground. They either loved it or they hated it. I obsessively adored it. Shakespeare has been done in many ways since the invention of cinema. Most of the time, it was played pretty straight and true to the time but when The West Side Story was released, it became clear that the bard's stories could be timeless. Romeo and Juliet has been tackled many times. Zeffirelli took a chance by casting true-to-age kids in the leads and even showing a very young breast in his version. It was an expression of thanks to Shakespeare, who obviously was pretty preoccupied himself with the racy and the sexy. That's why Baz Luhrman's release was so appealing to me. I firmly believe that the playwright would love this rendition of his work.

Luhrmann was able to adapt the story to a time nonexistent. An almost futuristic atmosphere that mixes cultures, time periods, and styles. His casting was perfect, his direction chaotic-but effective. He never strays from the story or the art of this play...he enhances it. The brilliant colors that clash with hazy afternoon heat and beautiful people all meld together into a glorious mess. Claire Danes and Leonardo Dicaprio both do extremely well and supporting cast stays true to form-sometimes over and sometimes under- played, as the character permits. The music is sometimes integral to the scene as is the case with 'Kissing You' during the Capulet party and 'When Doves Cry', in the church. As a whole, it was a risky venture but in my opinion, it is a screaming success.

favorite scene: My favorite part of the play is also my favorite part of the movie-the death of Tybalt-who is now Michael from LOST and almost unrecognizeable when you consider this young flamboyant.:)

http://i.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/021210/174510__leo7_l.jpg

[SIREN30]

44. Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

synopsis: Young lovers Hero and Claudio, soon to wed, conspire to get verbal sparring partners and confirmed singles Benedick and Beatrice to wed as well.

Lush, sunburnt, and brilliant! The funniest of Shakepeare's comedies ,in my book, and imaculately conceived in this miraculous transition to the screen! Brannagh and Thompson are in top form, turning in performances that rival each other to steal the show. It's quite a contest! Both are fantastic and some of the finest actors ever to grace my screen. Brannagh plays Benedick to perfection, far funnier than the Bard probably meant it- which is to his credit and our benefit. I laugh out loud many times, both at he and Keaton in a small but sensational role. Washington and the rest of the supporting cast play off each other easily and with such contagious happiness that one can't help but feel joyful almost throughout the film. (There is a small and depressing turn in the story about halfway through that is quickly remedied only moments later.) Robert Sean-Leonard hams it up as always but it goes over well and his showy feelings for Kate Beckinsales's Hero are goofy and sweet. Keanu Reeves is a luscious looking bad guy, even if he does sound like a surfer.

I suppose it's no accident that the two top Shakespeare movies on my list are back to back. They have both effected me equally-but this one being the 'sunnier' of the two, gave it a slight edge. :)
.

favorite scene: Benedick and Beatrice in the respective soliloquies


http://www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/much-ado-about-nothing-DVDcover.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Romeo and Juliet- 7/10

[Hannibal21]

The Miracle Worker - 9/10
Empire of the Sun - 6/10
Hello Dolly - 7/10
Sayanora - 8/10
Romeo and Juliet - 7/10 (love Claire Danes with a passion though :))

[ilovemovies]

Hello Dolly *
Romeo + Juliet (1996) ***
Much Ado About Nothing **


Romeo + Juliet is a good movie but Hello Dolly was almost completely unwatchable. Has to be the worst musical I've ever had the displeasure of sitting through! My friggin' high school production of it was 100x better than that movie!

And Much Ado About Nothing is aptly titled.

[SIREN30]

43. The Sting (1973)

synopsis: In 1930s Chicago, a young con man seeking revenge for his murdered partner teams up with a master of the big con to win a fortune from a criminal banker.

Timeless classic. Newman and Redford play effortlessly off of each other, which is probably the reason they were promptly paired again in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The Scott Joplin tunes and the great scenery capture the era so perfectly-it almost distracts from the great story. But not quite. The tale of two hustlers determined to squeeze a fortune from oily (but oh so sexy) Robert Shaw, stays exciting and completely entertaining from beginning to end. There are so many wonderful moments that it is a movie that absolutely requires multiple viewings. Eileen Brennan and Charles Durning also deserve credit for disappearing into their respective characters so completely.

favorite scene: I love the poker game. Love it every time...of course, I love my Newman.

http://www.topcmm.com/e1792/images/movie/039_43058.jpg

[Cronos]

Romeo + Juliet - 6/10
Much Ado About Nothing - 7/10
The Sting - 7/10

[SIREN30]

42. An American in Paris (1951)

synopsis Jerry Mulligan, a struggling American painter in Paris, is "discovered" by an influential heiress with an interest in more than Jerry's art. Jerry in turn falls for Lise, a young French girl already engaged to a cabaret singer. Jerry jokes, sings and dances with his best friend, an acerbic would-be concert pianist, while romantic complications abound.

Finally, Gene Kelly makes an appearence. Though the storyline pales in comparison to other great musicals of the time, the dancing is unequalled-before or since. Most people think of the stunning ballet sequence at the end of this picture, when they think of An American In Paris. Coupled with Gershwin's music, it is a work of art. The segment in which Kelly and Caron dance within a Latrec painting has often been pointed to as the single best choreography in any film-since it is as if the sparse painting has literally had life breathed into its subjects. The slow section by the fountain is likewise just beyond beautiful.
But there are other wonderful things about this movie. Kelly himself is a shining star-warm and funny-a charming artist with magical feet. Caron was only 19 at the time-but her elfin presence belies the freakishly strong dancer that she is. She's a joy to watch. Supporting characters also make a strong impression. Some highlights besides the final ballet: Kelly's adorable rendition of 'I Got Rhythym' with the french children, the quiet romance of 'Our Love is Here to Stay' by the river Siene, Oscar Levant's dream-which, although odd, is a stunning example of his piano talents, and Georges Guetary exhibits his wonderful, unique vocal skills in 'Stairway to Paradise'.
Each time I see this, I find something new about it to love-and that is the mark of a great movie.

favorite scene: It goes without saying, the ballet is the highlight of this film. But my second favorite scene is the 'I Got Rhythym' number with the cute li'l urchins.

http://www.cinematographers.nl/GreatDoPh/Films/AmericanParis2.jpg

[bigred760]

The Sting - 10/10

I love this movie. It's the perfect combination of charm, class, style, and flare. Not to mention that the characters rock, the story is awesome, the direction and editing is perfect, and I like the "title cards" that pop up to show what part of the scam is coming up.

[SIREN30]

41. Star Wars-A New Hope (Special Edition) (1977)

synopsis: Luke Skywalker leaves his home planet, teams up with other rebels, and tries to save Princess Leia from the evil clutches of Darth Vader

My whole life, I have adored Star Wars. I grew up watching the initial trilogy with undying affection. When all my little girlfriends were playing with Barbie Dolls, I was setting up elaborate versions of Tatooine, Hoth, and Endor in my room. I had every Princess Leia action figure that was made and sometimes I made my mom put my hair in donuts so that I could pretend to be her. Star Wars is more than just a movie. It's a whole friggin' culture-an integral part of our current society. From the first shot of that crazy-long Imperial Cruiser streaking into view to the final shot of our heroes be-medaled and purtied up-it captures the imagination. You can be young, old, married, single, a hater of science fiction, a Tarantino-head---no one is safe. Darth Vader has walked ominously through all of our dreams, complete with his signature march-a brilliant composition of John Williams. To some of us, he is the sexiest thing every to grace the screen. To me, R2 and Threepio were very real movie stars. Forget that there were people playing them inside-that was impossible. Luke was beautiful and a great actor (HA HA). Kenobi was wiser than my father-and I believed that the force was with him. And I was SO going to marry Han!

Incidentally, I think the Special Edition definitely adds to the movie. Some of the more 'died in the wool' fans would scoff. But I feel it's just a realization of Lucas' original vision.

Since the release of the new prequals, I've been a little jaded. Somehow, it took a while for them to grow on me-possibly because I felt deep down that they tainted somewhat my memory of the original trilogy. But now, I truly feel that things are as they should be. My children watched the original trilogy first and the prequals later-along with the great Clone Wars cartoon series. My six year old views it as one complete book-never daring to claim a favorite. I now, have affection for all of the prequal movies but especially for Revenge of the Sith which connected the two generations of film so beautifully. I wouldnt be a bit surprised if someday it made it onto this countdown.

Until then, the original 1977 film resides where it does-perfectly and comfortably in my top fifty.

favorite scene: I'ma big ol' fan of the garbage compactor scene! So original and gross and funny. Makes me feel like a kid again. Did anyone else have the garbage compactor play set? LOL

http://www.sineport.com/poster/eski/starwars1.jpg

[SIREN30]

40. The Empire Strikes Back (Special editon) (1980)


synopsis: While Luke takes advanced Jedi training from Yoda, his friends are relentlessly pursued by Darth Vader as part of his plan to capture Luke.

Director, Irving Kirschner, accomplished something with this movie that few have ever done. He made it better than the original. With better special effects, more character developement, superior dialogue, and a knock-out storyline-The EMpire Strikes Back succeeds at being the best of the trilogy. Though A New Hope had some great things going for it-life on the planet Tatooine, Alec Guiness as Ben Kenobi, a great entrance for Darth Vader, creepy Peter Cushing as Grand Moff Tarkin, and a wonderful climactic battle scene-the execution of this 2nd installation was even more complete. The battles scene on Hoth and those spectacular AT-ATs coupled with Luke's heroic escape from what we can only assume is Lucas' version of an Abonimable Snowman (aka The Wampa) open the film with a supersonic bang. The Special Edition includes footage that actually makes these scenes more powerful. Han and Leia's suspenseful escape through the asteroid field, Luke's training by Grover--er--ahem---YODA on Dagobah, Cloud City and Calrisien, Vader vs. Luke. These are the elements we needed so badly from a sequel-and we needed them to WORK. Which, of course, they do. The 'downer' of an ending only hyped us up all the more for the final installment.

While Return of the Jedi has not aged as well as these two films, for me, it was still a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. The Special Edition and its added score/ending was a definite improvement but a few of the cheesier elements relegate it to the class of 9/10's, in my book. Still worthy of a hearty honorable mention, however.


favorite scene: I'm such a sap. I like Han and Leia's love scene. 'My hands are dirty'...'My hands are dirty too'. :p

http://www.dvdork.com/uploads/empiresb_01.jpg

[bigred760]

HA HA, that's the way it should be - one right after the other!! :D

Star Wars - 10/10; one of my all time faves
Empire Strikes Back - 9/10

[Deadite914]

the sting - 9/10
new hope - 8/10
empire - 8.5/10

[TylerDurden182]

The Sting- 9/10
An American In Paris- 5/10
A New Hope- 7/10
Empire Strikes Back- 8/10

[SIREN30]

39. Funny Girl (1968)

synopsis: The life of comedienne Fannie Brice, from her early days in the Jewish slums of the Lower East Side, to the height of her career with the Ziegfeld Follies, including her marriage to and eventual divorce from her first husband, Nick Arnstein.

From what I understand, this telling of Fanny Brice's life isnt entirely true. Supposedly Nick Arnstein was quite a low-life. So I prefer to forget it's a biography and focus on the story-the rise to fame of a homely young girl with a wonderful singing voice. My mother sang the songs of this movie to me when I was a little girl. I grew up pantomining and acting out great tunes like 'I'm the Greatest Star", "I'd Rather Be Blue', 'You Are Woman', and 'My Man' in my bedroom mirror. But even without the wonderful songs, this movie stands tall. Acting is excellent, especially by Streisand who manages to deliver both as a thespian and a show-stopping singer. The direction by William Wyler is just magnificent. And the costumes and sets, especically during the Ziegfeld follies, are perfect. Though Streisand definitely has her 'haters', I am one who has always admired her as an actress and song-bird..

favorite scene: Comedy aside, Streisand's heart-breaking finale 'My Man' makes my hair stand on end.

http://cinema16.mty.itesm.mx/compas_musica/gifs_musicales/funny_girl.gif

[SIREN30]

38.Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)

synopsis: Based on the play by Tennessee Williams: A party is planned for the 65th birthday of family patriarch 'Big Daddy', but not everyone is in a festive mood. Big Daddy's son Brick, a one-time star athlete, has a drinking problem and has become cold towards his wife Maggie, though she still desperately loves him. Brick's older brother Gooper and his wife hope to gain control over Big Daddy's estate. Big Daddy himself is just coming home from a clinic where he has been tested for cancer. When his doctor tells the family the results of the tests, the family's accumulated lies, frustrations, and secrets quickly begin to come out.

Know What? If I was a man, I'd be in love w/ Paul Newman too so to me, the casting in this movie was right on. I think if Elizabeth Taylor should EVER have won the oscar, it shouldve been for this role. She shines. You feel her pain...poor little angel whose husband won't lay her down. But at the same time there's such raw emotion in Brick's multi-faceted chump that you can't help but be drawn in. You understand his side too and that's what makes the story so interesting. It's the joy of getting to be the voyeur of a private moment that gives you the pleasure in this one. Performances are all incredible. Ives isnt quite as compelling as in his oscar winning role but still jumps on this part like it was made for him and Judith Anderson is tragically complacent to a fault. Enjoy the mendacity!

favorite scene: Brick and Big Daddy have it out in the basement. Some of the best acting I've ever seen.

http://images.encarta.msn.com/xrefmedia/sharemed/targets/images/pho/t043/T043944A.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof- 8/10

[Monotreme]

Awesome - another personal favourite of mine I was glad to see on your list, Siren30. This time it's The Sting, a classic that aged surprisingly well and is compulsively watchable, always entertaining and just plain lovable all around. 9/10, and high up on my own top 100 list as well :)

[ilovemovies]

Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope *** 1/2
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back ***


I know I'm in the minority (extremely so) but Empire Strikes Back is actually my least favorite of all the Star Wars flicks. Both trilogies included.

[Hannibal21]

The Sting - 7/10
An American in Paris - 7/10
Star Wars - 6/10
The Empire Strikes Back - 7/10
Funny Girl - 8/10
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - 9.5/10

On a side note - SIREN, I see that you're a big fan of movie musicals (which makes me glad since very few schmoes here are fond of this genre), so I highly recommend you to check out the Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers films (most notably Top Hat and Swing Time) if you haven't already seen. Seriously, they're some of the most glorious times you could have at the movies!

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Hannibal21
On a side note - SIREN, I see that you're a big fan of movie musicals (which makes me glad since very few schmoes here are fond of this genre), so I highly recommend you to check out the Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers films (most notably Top Hat and Swing Time) if you haven't already seen. Seriously, they're some of the most glorious times you could have at the movies!

I'm with you there, mac!! I'm also a big fan of musicals - though I'm more partial to Music Man and West Side Story. :D

[SIREN30]

Originally posted by Hannibal21
The Sting - 7/10
An American in Paris - 7/10
Star Wars - 6/10
The Empire Strikes Back - 7/10
Funny Girl - 8/10
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - 9.5/10

On a side note - SIREN, I see that you're a big fan of movie musicals (which makes me glad since very few schmoes here are fond of this genre), so I highly recommend you to check out the Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers films (most notably Top Hat and Swing Time) if you haven't already seen. Seriously, they're some of the most glorious times you could have at the movies!

Thank you for the recommendation, Hannibal. If it's a musical-I have seen it though. :D My father introduced me to musicals growing up and I have grown to love them abnormally, I'm sure. Fred and Ginger turned in some wonderful movies and the dancing was phenomenal-although the movies themselves had slim stories sometimes. My favorite of Fred's movies are Top Hat and Royal Wedding-but I also love Easter Parade. I've always loved Gene Kelly's work slightly more.

BigRed, The West Side Story is coming soon...it's quite high on my countdown...but not my favorite musical. You'll have to wait and see...

[SIREN30]

37. The Quiet Man (1952)

synopsis: A disgraced American boxer returns to Ireland, the land of his heritage, and falls in love.

John Ford has, undoubtedly, turned in some brilliant movies. Most would argue that this was not his best. Among the more critically acclaimed of his films were The Searchers, Stagecoach, Mr Roberts, The Grapes of Wrath, How Green Was My Valley...the man directed over 140 films in his life! But this one is my favorite. It may not be his BEST...but it's my favorite. The story of Sean Thornton (Trooper Thorn), the boxer that returns to the Irish town of his birth for some solitude and instead ends up the center of attention, is timeless. Maureen O'Hara is a big girl by today's standards but there is no doubt she was beautiful. Her fiery hair and temper lend such a great quality to Mary Kate Danaher. The scene in the cabin (used in E.T.) where Sean swings her into his arms and kisses her is one of the most romantic moments in film. Then we have the hilarious townspeople, the raucous music, the gorgeous scenery, one of the greatest fights in movie history and ...voila! Perfection!

favorite scene: Sean finds out his wife has deserted him and he goes on a mission to bring her back...he literally drags her all the way to her brother's house where he GIVES HER BACK! And the townspeople, anticipating a fight, follow him the whole way. Fantastic.

http://cinema16.mty.itesm.mx/historia_del_cine/film_frames/quiet_man.gif

[bigred760]

The Quiet Man - OOOOH, I love this movie. Definitely a classic in my mind. One of John Ford's best, and features John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, and Victor McLaglen at their best. And of course, Barry Fitzgerald steals every scene he's in. 9/10

[SIREN30]

36. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)

synopsis: Three WWII veterans return home to small-town America to discover that they and their families have been irreparably changed.

Not enough people have seen this movie. To be a winner of seven oscars, one of which was for an acting performance that is difficult to beat (Frederick March), it is largely forgotten. Maybe that is due to the fact that in the midst of all the WWII epics of our day, this one deals with the side so few choose to remember-the survivors. Three ex-service men return home to find that returning to mundane every day existence is next to impossible. Al Stephenson (Fred March) must return to his precious wife Milly (Myrna Loy) and two grown children who all have dealt w/ their own problems on the homefront. His job as a banker seems trite and alcoholism is his new enemy. Fred Darry (Dana Andrews) is coming back to a doll-face wife who seems to be very disillusioned w/ the soda-jerk husband she married-in spite of the impressive array of medals on his chest. And Homer Parrish must face the family and girlfriend he left behind-as an amputee. His struggle is the hardest and though a novice actor, Harold Russell(an actual war vet), moves mountains with this performance. There are scenes in this movie that will never be forgotten because they were so representative of what my grandparents went through when the war ended-and in that sense they are utterly identifiable. The story is constantly appealing, dealing as it does with love, anger, resentment, and victory all in one fell swoop. William Wyler's direction and the hard work of the solid cast never disappoints.

favorite scene: Al's homecoming-Myrna Loy will move a heart of stone in this scene.

http://www.meredy.com/vinbw/bestyears02.jpg

[SIREN30]

35. Gone With the Wind (1939)

synopsis: Coquettish plantation-girl Scarlett O'hara breaks hearts and braves starvation during the Civil War.

Without the book, this movie would be in my top ten for sure. But since I've read the book about five times, it loses a little in comparison. The book is able to delve so much deeper into the lives of the respective character where this film, albeit 3+ hours long, fails. But be that as it may, the movie is a turning point in film history. Scarlett is the 'bad guy' of the story-but we love her. She takes advantage of her family, marries her sister's beau, stays selfish and pouty throughout the story-and still, we love her. Vivien Leigh is largely responsible for this affection. Paulette Goddard signed on as Scarlet before Leigh was discovered but we can thank our stars that this lady was found when she was. No one could have played the part more brilliantly. That raised eyebrow-kills. Olivia DeHavilland and Clark Gable are likewise perfectly cast. I would have preferred a younger Ashley Wilkes but Leslie Howard is sufficiently dreamy, I guess. It was a definite exercise in patience for the casting director-but it was SO worth it. The love story is wonderfully executed, even for fans of the book. Clark and Vivien arat least good at PRETENDING to have wonderful chemistry. I also adore the excellent way in which Leigh plays off the rest of her supporting players...just like the pawns that they are. The action is all very convincing as well, particulary during the burning of Atlanta. But all of you know that. Each time I see this movie, I am more affected by the scenes of suffering Victor Fleming was able to convey. They are the crowning glories of this film, in my opinion. It deserves all the credit it gets and then some.

favorite scene: I love after the shooting of the yankee-when Melanie shows some spirit. Vivien Leigh's eyebrow raises, this time in admiration. It's a pivotal point in their relationship.

http://www.liderdigital.com/imagenes/noticias/foto1/Gone_With_The_Wind_250.jpg

[SIREN30]

34. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

synopsis: After the murder of his wife, hotshot banker Andrew Dufresne is sent to Shawshank Prison, where the usual unpleasantness occurs. Over the years, he retains hope and eventually gains the respect of his fellow inmates, especially longtime convict "Red" Redding, a black marketeer, and becomes influential within the prison. Eventually, Andrew achieves his ends on his own terms.

I have no idea how many times I've seen this movie but it's getting a little rediculous. Red and Andy are one of my favorite onscreen 'duos'. Their friendship is real and believeable from the beginning. Though Tim Robbins has been great in other films, it was this movie that made me a true fan. His intelligent and gentle Andy Dufresne is the soothing ointment on the horrors of Shawshank and eventually, he impacts the lives of everyone in it. And words cannot express how much I love Morgan Freeman in this one. His performance his historical,make no mistake. He draws so much compassion from the viewer while still maintaining a tough-as-nails exterior. It's miraculous. This movie contains some of the best moments I've ever seen of victory, tragedy, companionship, and optimism. Everyone on the planet should see it.



favorite scene: 'the redemption'. If I catch this movie in the middle, I just cannot turn it off. I must see the end no matter what. It's that important. :D

http://www.exclaim.ca/images/up-shawshank_redemption.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

The Quiet Man- 8/10
The Best Years of Our Lives- 7/10
Gone With The Wind- 6/10
The Shawshank Redemption- 10/10

[Hannibal21]

The Quiet Man - 8/10
The Best Years of Our Lives - 9/10
Gone with the Wind - 10/10
The Shawshank Redemption - 10/10

[bigred760]

Gone with the Wind - 8/10
Shawshank Redemption - 9/10

[SIREN30]

33. The Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)

synopsis: The early life and rise to fame of Loretta Lynn, country music legend-and one of the only TRUE country music stars. She lived the life she sings about.

Sissy Spacek blows me away in this movie. It is one of my all time favorite female performances,ever. But even without her mind-boggling impression of the great Loretta Lynn, this movie has many other unforgettable elements. Levon Helm is touching and awkward as Loretta's father. He has some of the best moments of the film ('Loretta, dont throw all them young years away'). Tommy lee Jones is likewise excellent, bringing his sexy saunter a very real quality that is very memorable. Bevery D'angelo is wonderful as Patsy Cline-and is it a bit sacreligious that I enjoy her voice more? My family has grown up quoting this movie so it is very much a part of my life. But as an adult, I love it just as much. It lives and breathes a real, honest to goodness life, without glamorizing or embellishing it in any way. I have all the respect in the world for Sissy, who was able to represent Loretta so honestly.

favorite scene: Though the whole movie is great, the early moments are undoubtedly the best. My favorite part is when Lo-retty discovers that she's pregnant and tells Du, 'I'm gonna have a BA-by.' and he responds 'Good Lordy Lo-retty, looks like we finally found somethin' you can do!'-big smile on his face. She's fourteen. It's a great scene.



http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00005JLTZ.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Coal Miner's Daughter- 4/10

[SIREN30]

32. The West Side Story (1961)

synopsis: Musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet set in New York City, where rival street gangs (the Jets and the Sharks) battle for territory and respect.

'Here come the jets (yeah!) and we're gonna beat every last buggin' gang on the whole buggin' street...on the whole...buggin...evah-lovin'...streeeeet'. Yeah, that's right. Street gangs (toughs, if you will) battling for territory using chains, knives, and ballet! They sing too and their lyrics are foreboding as hell...'The jets are gonna have their day, toniiight'. And when their leaders die, what do they do? How do they deal w/ their pain? They...DANCE! And when the cops hammer them for being the low-lifes that they are-how do they respond? They jest...with SONG! 'Dear officer Krupke we're very upset. We never had the love that every child oughta get...' So can someone tell me, WHY is this movie so fantastic? It has all the elements that should screw it beyond belief.

I don't know. But not only does it work...it's one of the best movies in history and arguably, in many critics' opinions, the best musical ever made. Even those of us who adore it agree that it is a silly idea. We laugh and scoff at the little dance steps intermingled with a basketball game and a stroll down the street. But somehow, it's still beautiful to watch-and even more amazingly, somehow the guys are none the worse for wear. We still heartily believe that they are heterosexual and hotblooded...good lovers even! And when one of these rowdies falls in love with a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, we feel his pain. We believe that they are inlove. We cry at their tragic eventuality. Because WIlliam Shakespeare created a formula that is all but full proof...especially when its in the hands of a great filmmaker like Robert Wise.

As a musical, The West Side Story might have the best songs ever written. From the silly singalong 'Jetts' to the tearful reprise of 'Somewhere', every song is a masterpiece of lyricism and melody. Think about it...'Something's Comin', 'Maria', 'Tonight', 'I feel Pretty',' America', 'Officer Krupke', 'Somewhere', and my personal favorite 'I Have a Love'....they're all staples of the era. In the film, all of the performers deliver the goods with a few very obvious standouts. Richard Beymer is extremely appealing and his rendition of 'Maria' sets the standard in passion. Marni Nixon sings with a Puerto Rican accent for Natalie Wood as Maria-and of course, she has an angelic voice, especially in the aforementioned 'I Have a Love' that cannot fail to induce tears. Rito Moreno and Russ Tamblin, known for their acting and dancing skills more than their singing, still bring it home. Natalie Wood melts into her character with ease and her lip sync job is very foregiving. We ALMOST forget she's being dubbed. The dancing is some of the best every filmed, especially in the Dance at the Gym, Cool, and America-songs that were created for great choreography.

Let's just all admit it. The movie rocks...all over.


favorite scene: The Dance at the Gym followed closely by 'Cool'. I'm a sucker for the music in the first one and the energy of the second.

http://www.radio-canada.ca/television/cinema/img_films/west_sidestory.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

West Side Story- 5/10

[ilovemovies]

The Shawshank Redemption ****
West Side Story * 1/2

[SIREN30]

31. Spartacus (1960)

synopsis: The slave Spartacus leads a violent revolt against the decadent Roman empire.

This is my pick for Kubrick's masterpiece. It has all the pieces to make up one exhuberant whole. Great acting (principally by Laughton and Ustinov, in my book), a great story-complete with touching romance, spectacular direction, witty and intelligent dialogue, and a simply beautiful score. The idea of a gladiator army is just terrifying to the Romans and we are swept away in their fear. We love to see them shake, represented as thay are as complete degenerates. Yes, I know Laurence Olivier is a classy gorgeous guy, but his Crassus?...scaaary. He does a wonderful job making us hate him. Kirk Douglas works that chin-crater wonderfully. He's hard and tough, but in his love scenes-oh so sweet. Jean Simmons (wonder how long HER tongue is) also tugs at the ol' heartstrings, giving us a powerfully tender female to love. There are miraculous scenes in this movie. Scenes that will never fail to move ('I'm Spartacus!...'Die my love...please die!') and also those that will tickle the funnybone (pretty much every line out of Ustinov's mouth). It's a crowning achievement in every sense.

favorite scene: 'I'm Spartacus!' followed closely by any conversation between Batiatus and Grachus.

http://www.meredy.com/kirkdouglas/spartacus.jpg

[ilovemovies]

Spartacus ***

[TylerDurden182]

Spartacus- 7/10

[SIREN30]

30. O Brother Where Art Thou (2000)

synopsis: Three stumblebum convicts escape to go on a quest for treasure and meet various characters while learning where their real fortune lies set in 1930s Deep South.

I look at this movie as a musical. It's one of my favorite 'new' musicals but it's also an entirely original undertaking. It's an adventure movie, period piece, comedy, AND a musical. I love the hot and hazy cinematography where everything is golden and white clothing is reserved for the upper-class mediocrity. When we see Pappy O'Daniel and his henchmen, for instance, they are often wearing white-and it's the brightest pinkish-white I've ever seen. It somehow succeeds in making them more ludicrous and even more hilarious. The dialogue in this rivals them all...it's one of my absolute favorite scripts('Friend, some of yer foldin' money's come unstowed'). The songs are heavenly...sometimes literally :D, and they're all performed by the absolute royalty of the genre. Legends in their own time. The acting is right on...especially from TIm Blake Nelson and George Clooney, though Holly Hunter succeeds with yet another Cohen brothers classic. And what's with that crazy WIzard of Oz segment-with klan instead of witch's guards? Brilliant. I've seen this move an unhealthy ammount of times, I'm sure-considering that life is short. But every time, I enjoy myself immensely...and laugh like a halfwit.

'Say,...eh....any of you fellas smithies?'



favorite scene: hard one. Maybe the 'baptism' scene. 'Gopher Everett?'

http://www.offoffoff.com/film/2001/images/obrother.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

O Brother, Where Art Thou- 8/10

[Hannibal21]

Coal Miner's Daughter - 8/10
West Side Story - 9/10 (Fantastic movie but I really didn't care for Beymer in the lead role, and I don't think George Chakiris' Oscar winning performance is anything special either. On the other hand, Rita Moreno is a hot little firecracker and breathes life into this musical, while Natalie Wood is as enchanting as always.)
Spartacus - 9.5/10 (I have heard so many audiences calling this one of Kubrick's worst films, I beg to differ.)
O Brother Where Art Thou? - 5/10 (The only Coens film that I dislike)

[SIREN30]

Originally posted by Hannibal21
O Brother Where Art Thou? - 5/10 (The only Coens film that I dislike)

Interesting. This movie either connects with you or it doesnt. I give it 10/10, of course, but most people either tell me its one of their favorites or they dislike it. I've never heard anybody say 'oh, it's okay.' :)

I thought this was funny: I got this email 'survey' from a friend and one of the questions was 'What movie can you watch over and over again and never get tired of?'...I put Urban Cowboy, Jaws, and Shawshank but I got this survey back from about 20 people and 16 of them had OBWAT on their list!! It's obviously becoming a 'cult' film.

[SIREN30]

29. Ben Hur (1959)

synopsis: When a Jewish prince is betrayed and sent into slavery by a Roman friend, he regains his freedom and comes back for revenge

The original title of this book by Lew Wallce is Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ. Interestingly, Christ is only minimally factored into the film. I'm actually thankful for that. I'm a christian myself but usually I feel that Christ is shallowly represented on film and the movies always turn out hollow. So the religious aspect of this film is not my favorite. I also am of the opinion that Charlton Heston overacts in most of his movies. His mugging makes me crazy at times. So, I think I need to credit director William Wyler with my deep and abiding love for this movie. Because it works on so many levels.

The story is brilliant-thanks to Wallace's novel-and allows for many 'main' parts to shine through on film. Charlton Heston does carry the film well-even if his acting is overdone. His Judah Ben Hur is a real 'human' for us to identify with and root for. Stephen Boyd is a sinister villain that we love to hate. Haya Harareet is a beautiful and sympathetic Ester. Hugh Griffith is great for comic relief but his performance is also a wonderful example of character acting. Jack Hawkins and Frank Thring are sufficiently pompous as their respective men of authority. The screenplay is very strong and the costumes are gorgeous. It also contains one of my favorite scores and a fantastic dramatic climax in the Chariot Race, one of the best action scenes ever filmed, in my opinion.

I guess this is a perfect example of a movie that, though flawed, makes up for those problems a million times over in many other ways....and in that sense it is a triumph. I've loved it forever and that is why it takes such a high position on my countdown.

favorite scene: The Chariot Race, of course. When Massala gets dragged by his chariot-ouch! I cringe every time. Very disturbing even by today's standards-especially when Juda comes to see him afterward.


http://home.cogeco.ca/~wfrith1/ben-hur.JPG

[SIREN30]

28. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

synopsis: A line worker, after a encounter with UFO's, feels undeniably drawn to an isolated area in the wilderness where something spectacular is about to happen.

Released the same year as Star Wars, this movie dealt with the extraterrestrial in an entirely different and odd manner. In this one, the aliens are never shown until the tail end of the film-and the story is built around two people who are contacted telepathically, and must deal with the inevitable consequences of such. I think it is beyond powerful, at times terrifying, and one of Spielburg's best. It's actually my 2nd favorite of his movies-and I'm fine with being probably the only person in creation that feels that way. The human elements of this movie are what move me so much. Richard Dreyfuss' and Melinda Dillon both play such completely believeable basketcases. Their experiences seem so real in spite of the fantasy storyline. Roy's first encounter at the train tracks, gives me chills...it's that good. The disappearence of Barry (precious child actor Cary Guffey) goes down in history as one of the most frightening things I've ever seen. It puts anything like it to shame, in my book. The idea of Johnny Mathis crooning over the chaos was sheer genius. Yikes! This movie was also the first of Speilburg's movies that showed his talent for overlapping dialogue. It is very effective because each time you view it, you notice something different. The dialogue in itself, especially in the family scenes, is also striking in its realism . Terri Garr, Francois Truffaut (love him as an actor), and Bob Balaban deliver these lines with such great skill. Their respective characters are so well-fleshed and engaging-just remarkable in every way.

The final scenes, involving the spaceship, also focus more on the great characters than the aliens themselves. But still, when faced with being a science fiction movie, it still survives the critics with great cinematic technology . The score playing over the final scene, with it's wonderful inclusion of "When You Wish Upon a Star', gets me choked up every time. I wish so badly that more people would give this movie a chance. I want them all to watch it and come to the same consion as myself-that it is FAR AND AWAY superior to E.T or any other movie of it's kind. But that probably won't happen. :)

favorite scene: There are a ton of great moments in this movie. I have always loved the planes in the desert and the natives pointing at the sky. But Truffaut's questioning of Dreyfuss through Bob Balaban is super effective as well.

http://www.filmcritic.com/misc/mepics.nsf/view/scifi3/$File/scifi3.jpg

[SIREN30]

27. The Sound of Music (1965)

synopsis: A woman leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to a Naval officer widower

Like most musicals, this one has a few weak moments. I've never enjoyed 'Sixteen Going on Seventeen' and there are a couple of phoned in performances. But as a piece of beautiful entertainment-this movie is difficult to beat. I don't know if there has ever been a film that has connected with me for as long or in as many ways as this one. I actually modeled my own wedding after Maria's wedding-completel with dress colors and no groomsmen. Rogers and Hammerstein's music for TSOM surpasses any of their other musicals, in my opinion. It was not their best loved work-they actually felt Carousel was far superior (Yuk, sorry can't agree :rolleyes: ) but this one undoubtedly contains some of their best loved songs. 'I Have Confidence', 'Climb Every Mountain', 'My Favorite Things', 'So Long Farewell', 'Edelweiss', 'The Lonely Goatherd'-these are all classic songs that have stood the test of time. There are very few people that don't know the words.

Julie Andrews was a wonderful actress and her singing voice only added to the appeal of her well-rounded character. She is just lovely throughout the whole film but especially when she begins to fall in love and has that sweet glow about her. The nuns singing 'Maria' is one of the best things I've ever seen and Peggy Wood as the Mother Superior is a phenomenal presence. Christopher Plumber is dashing as The Captain and his lines are effortless. All of the children are memorable-their singing moments are some of the best of the film. THe cinematography is stunning, made me fall in love with Austria as a child. Robert Wise brought life to this story as no one else could have. It's a family movie that will always survive...because it is wholesome...because it's beautiful...because it just will.

favorite scene: I'm a sucker for the nun's singing 'Maria' at the beginning and at the wedding. Makes me tear up. And hey! Marni Nixon actually makes an appearence as herself! That's certainly one for the books. :)

http://data.panoramatours.com/media/101.jpg

[SIREN30]

26. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

synopsis: An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would had been like if he never existed

Most people watch this movie at Christmastime, since it seems to play alot at that time of the year. They equate the warm and fuzzy experience that watching this movie brings w/ the feelings they get around the tree. I do not celebrate Christmas-never have-so I cannot identify with that particular emotion. But, I do enjoy watching it in the winter because it does make one very warm. It is another of Frank Capra's 'uppers'-the story of a man who loses hope only to regain it tenfold in the end. We all feel for George Bailey and his losses, his desperation, his turmoil. But we also feel vindicated when that same George Bailey becomes the 'richest man in Bedford Falls'-and for that reason we watch it over and over again. It is life affirming. It brings us joy.

Jimmy Stewart is my favorite actor of all time and this movie is a great example of his skill. He's funny, charming, pitiful, sincere. Just the quintessential leading man. Donna Reed is likewise alluring-though her tv show was probably a direct result of this motherly role. Other Frank Capra staples-Lionel Barrymore, Beaula Bondi, Thomas Mitchell, H.B Warner-also prove their worth, shining through as they always have. They are the 'Capra Cavaliers'...the ones that made his movies the all-American masterpieces that they are. All of these actors are some of my favorite people to watch.

So don't just give it a go at Christmas-watch it whenever you feel the need to perk up. I can almost promise you that it will do the job.

favorite scene: I always loved the dance at the gym when the pool opens up...it sets the mood for several of the scenes following it.

http://www.markdroberts.com/images/Its-Wonderful-Life-m.jpg

[SIREN30]

25. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

synopsis: After settling his differences with a Japanese PoW camp commander, a British colonel co-operates to oversee his men's construction of a railway bridge for their captors - while oblivious to a plan by the Allies to destroy it.

I've been told that this is not a woman's movie-much less a little girl's movie. :) But this has been one of my favorites since I was about ten years old. I'm sure it has something to do with my strange fascination for prison movies. The survival of the human sprit...all that schtick...LOL. Anyway, this is such a good movie-it makes me want to yell it out to all women everywhere: 'Don't listen to those idiots that want to confine you to the chick-flick genre! Sleepless in Seattle and WHile You Were Sleeping couldnt hold a candle to this one!' Maybe it's because there are really very few females to speak of in the movie that make it a 'man's movie'. Whatever.

The fact is, David Lean has never been in better directing form. Alec Guiness as the obsessive Col. Nicholson is unbelieveable. William Holden is likeable-can't say I think he's the charmer he was cracked up to be. James Donald is steady and wonderful-as always. Sessue Hayakawa is also pretty fantastic-especially in his personable scenes with Guiness. The plot twists and turns unexpectedly-rounding out many great great moments in the meantime. I will never get tired of watching it. And I'll never get tired of the little tune the prisoners whistle to keep up morale.

'la la la la la la la laaaa....'


favorite scene: Col Nicholson's stubborness pays off. If you've seen it, you love this scene too!

http://www.dvdloc8.com/images/dvdcover/292.jpg

[SIREN30]

24. Chariots of Fire (1981)

synopsis: The story of two British track athletes, one a determined Jew, and the other a devout Christian who compete in the 1924 Olympics

A quiet, dignified sports movie sounds a bit like an oxymorn. But this is one. Even the action scenes are understated, using Vangelis' ethereal score and Hugh Hudson's precise direction to convey feeling. Though some have complained that this film is slow and heavy-I don't see it that way. Religion is not a lightweight issue. It is a subject that requires deft handling and a deliberate pace. And in this case, the success is remarkable. Acting is flawless, particularly by Ian Charleston as Eric Liddel, the Christian preacher who refuses to run on the Sabbath. His scene with the Olympic committee is historical and moving. But Ian Holm shines also, as the coach of jewish runner, Harold Abrahams. Their relationship is rocky but intense. His wishes for his athlete come through with each look. Even though the movie is often remembered for it's lovely visuals, such as the runners on the beach, there is so much more that it has to offer. In addition to the lead actors, there is also a wonderful performance by Alison Krige as Abraham's optimisitic love interest. He voice glides over you like a breath of wind and her face is a wonderful montage of emotion throughout the drama.

On this countdown, there are a few movies that have impressed me from the start and stayed steady...a few who have been initially appealing but have faded slightly...and one or two that have started as a mild admiration but grown into a deep love. This is one of those latter films. I love it a hundred times more than I did at the first...and it seems to just keep climbing the list. :)


favorite scene: I love to watch Eric Liddell running on the moors of Scotland. It's not as much that it's my favorite scene but it's probably the most spiritual in nature.

http://www.movie-winners.com/pix/chariotsoffire.jpg

[SIREN30]

23. Jaws (1975)

synopsis: A police chief, a scientist, and a grizzled sailor set out to kill a shark that is menacing the seaside community of Amity Island.

I have probably seen this one more than any other movie on my countdown.
The movie poster terrified me as a little girl. The opening scene took me years to stomach (and is every bit as frightening as this portion of the book). I still have trouble swimming in the ocean ('Open Water' has not helped this problem either :) ). It was so much more than just a movie to me.

Now, I've gotten over the jitters and I just enjoy what I feel is the greatest of Speilburg's movies. It has aged beautifully, not because the special effects were in any way ahead of their time, but because the story and characters are ageless. Roy Schider still seems just as noble. Richard Dreyfuss still brings on the chuckles with his fearlessness. Robert Shaw is still as salty as ever-and sexy to boot!The sight of the shark fin in the water and the resulting mayhem still makes us shudder. The 'gore' is still unsettling. It simply doesnt get old. And for that reason it is a classic in the truest sense.


favorite scene: Not only my favorite scene in the movie but one of my 10 favorite movie scenes ever...the comparing of scars onboard the Orca. The acting, the dialogue, the direction all combine for cinematic perfection.


http://www.crankycritic.com/archive/posters/jaws.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Ben Hur- 6/10
Close Encounters- 7/10
Sound Of Music- 3/10
It's A Wonderful Life- 9/10
Bridge on the River Kwai- 8/10
Jaws- 8/10

[Monotreme]

Ben Hur- 8/10, but never really grew on me.
Close Encounters- 8/10
Sound Of Music- 7/10, was never that big a fan of the old-fashioned musicals.
It's A Wonderful Life- 8/10, classic and allows itself to get pretty dark, but the ultimate message is just too sentimental for me.
Bridge on the River Kwai- N/A, this is on my list of movies I must see.
Jaws- 8/10, as with Close Encounters, I guess I haven't seen this movie enough times for it to make a lasting impact on me as much as other Spielberg films have.

[SIREN30]

22. Rebecca (1940)

synopsis: When a naive young woman marries a rich widower, they settle in his gigantic mansion, where she finds the memory of the first wife maintaining a grip on her husband and the servants.

Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece. Though his own personal favorite, Shadow of a Doubt, was a great movie as well-Rebecca is beyond great. It's the quintessential character study, one of the only movies that succeeds in never showing the title character. She is simply the inspired presence on which the whole movie hangs.

'Last night, I dreamt I went to Manderly again...' Those words begin a story that immediately intrigues us, as the viewer, making us anxious for the inhabitants of this mysterious world. The heroine of the book is nameless-something some viewers don't realize. I always thought this was actually quite appealing since the story is written in first person and her name is really not necessary but also because it makes us somehow feel as if we are the ones experiencing her life. Joan Fontaine is very effective in her mild-mannered role, replete as it is with naivety and apprehension. The fact that she falls in love with Olivier's charming Mr De WInter is never questioned but her willingness to take on the job of Mistress of Manderly is enigmatic at best. Her bewildered approach is completely identifiable to any of us who live in the real world...and we root for her success. But pushing against her modest ambition is the haunting presence of Rebecca, the former Mrs Dewinter. Her reputation of perfection is impossible for anyone to meet, especially the awkward heroine of the story. Rebecca's personal servant Mrs Danvers (chillingly portrayed by Judith Anderson) stays on at the mansion as head servant-and she is a constant reminder of the inadequacy of her new mistress.

There are scenes in this film that rival any other for mere imagery and subtlety. Some are simply beautiful and some are positively eerie. Hitchcock's signature camera work is such a huge asset to this story where the 'villain' is of the intangible variety.

Glorious acting by George Sanders, Nigel Bruce, and Gladys Cooper add a welcome touch of the 'real world' to this most haunted of houses-quick witted staples that they are.

As a whole, Hitchcock realized Daphne DuMaruier's vision of Manderly and its inhabitants better than anyone else could. It's a stunningly beautiful conception.

favorite scene: The new Mrs DeWinter takes a 'casual' stroll through Rebecca's rooms and finds it in pristine condition, as if she'd never left. And we, as the viewers, almost feel her presence.

http://www.utexas.edu/features/archive/2003/graphics/hrc5.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Rebecca- 9/10

[SIREN30]

21. The Philadelphia Story (1940)

synopsis: When a rich woman's ex-husband and a tabloid-type reporter turn up just before her planned remarriage, she begins to learn the truth about herself.

High Society, the musical version of this story, was on my list previously. This original telling of the same tale, goes down in history as one of the world's best romantic comedies. It is the perfect love triangle, consisting of Katherine Hepburn's smart alleck socialte, James Stewart's over zealous reporter, and Cary Grant's debonairre charmer. Though Stewart steals the show, in my opinion, this is definitely the role Hepburn was born to play. She is at all times watchable and indescribably funny. Cary Grant delivers his lines with the practiced ease he accomplished in Bringing Up Baby, this time without the leopard. His C K Dexter Haven is the 'it' man of his day, used to getting what he wants and not sure how to deal with failure. From the beginning, the movie is a crazy success-immediately appealing-highly intelligent-hysterically funny.

What more do you need?

favorite scene: A scene that has been stolen by many a film. Mike Conner returns from the pool carrying Tracy's inebriated self and drunkenly singing 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' at the top of his lungs. When Tracy's fiance George goes in for the kill, C. K literally beats him to the punch-and the physical comedy is perfection.

http://www.grandopera.org/events/images/64.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Philadelphia Story- 8/10

[ilovemovies]

Close Encounters of the Third Kind ** 1/2
The Sound of Music **
Jaws ****

[Hannibal21]

I don't really care for Ben Hur or Close Encounters, but you are officially one of my favorite people for including in your top 30:

REBECCA (which obviously receives a 10/10 from me)

I love love LOVE this movie to death with a fucking passion and I have no idea why people generally do not care for it. It's by FAR one of the most, suspenseful, spellbinding, beautiful, hypnotic, elegant movies ever made and showcases Hitchcock at his very BEST as a filmmaker.

Other ratings:
The Sound of Music - 7/10
It's a Wonderful Life - 10/10
The Bridge on the River Kwai - 9/10
Chariots of Fire - 8/10
Jaws - 9/10
The Philadelphia Story - 9.5/10

[SIREN30]

20. Sleeping Beauty (1959)

synopsis: A snubbed malevolent fairy casts a curse on a princess that only a prince can break, with the help of three good fairies.

I love Walt Disney's whole catalogue. While he was alive he created legendary characters and adapted great fairy tales with an elegant and skillful hand. My personal favorite of the Walt Disney movies is Cinderella-something about it just connects with me and makes me feel like a little girl again. There are many many other great animated features to speak of-too many, actually. It would have been very difficult to include all of the classics in my top 100. So, I've opted to choose just one that I feel represents best his whole body of work.

Sleeping Beauty is probably Disney's masterpiece. He himself was partial to this one and considered it his crowning achievement as a filmaker. And the main reason is its style. Visually it is unlike anything that has ever been made. With it's predecessors, Walt focused on a realistic soft approach, rarely straying from this idea. WIth Sleeping Beauty, he went an entirely different route. An authentic midaevil tapestry was consulted for the angular artwortk and as you can see, this style was carried througout the film. Landscapes and long-shots are very tapestry-like in their construction-even the people are at right angles. The movement stays true to Disney's realistic conception but the artwork is beautifully blunt. The addition of Tchaikovsky's ballet music is the icing on the cake. Each melody takes on an entirely new personality as the lyrics move the story along at a brisk pace. Mary Costa's soprano is unspeakably beautifiul, especially coupled with the glorious scenery surrounding the annimated Briar Rose. Eleanor Audley's vocalization of Malificent is spectacular, bringing to life one of the most dreadful villains ever to grace an animated feature film-or any film, for that matter. Rounding out the cast is the three good fairies, Kings Stephen and Hubert, and Prince Phillip. All of these are wonderfully developed and completely believeable characters with which to connect.

Disney was a master. We miss him. But we can be thankful that he was able to provide us with so much immortal art.

favorite scene: Not the most visually stunning scene but the most entertaining: The three good fairies get out their wands to make a lovely birthday present for Briar Rose. Its a fun scene full of great animation.

http://www.mpimages.net/mp/compressed/promotional/SleepingBeauty-Photo1sb_c_259.jpg

[SIREN30]

19. Dead Poets Society (1989)

synopsis: English professor John Keating inspires his students to a love of poetry and to seize the day.

This is my pick for Peter Weir's best film. He has an amazing body of work, though a bit slim, but this one connects with me and moves me the most. I know that the fact that I saw it first as a teenage girl makes me a bit biased. Of course, I fell in love with half the cast. But now that I'm older, I appreciate it for different reasons. First and foremost is the direction. The subdued, quiet direction coupled with the wonderful music by Maurice Jarre makes this movie quite a beautiful thing. But in addition to this, the acting is marvelous. Robin Williams steals the show as Mr Keating-a mild mannered, dreamy instructor whose unorthodox teaching methods reap rewards and consequences. His performance is one of my favorites since it required him to be an entirely believeable person-and not a clown. Though his comic talents shine through on occasion, it's the sympathetic master that draws us in. Ethan Hawke, Robert Shawn Leonard, Josh Charles, Gale Hansen, Dylan Kussman, and Kurtwood Smith round out the rest of the great cast-all of which deliver noteworthy performances themselves. I've always been something of a dreamer and I adore the message that this movie so artfully gets across. That though living on dreams is not possible, having them is necessary. I cry every time I see it-not just for the tragedy but also for the wonderfully victorious ending.

It's one of the most perfect movies I've seen.

favorite scene: The end. It's probably the most satisfying conclusion to a film that I've seen.

http://www.thebutterscotchthreshold.com/dead-poets-society-001.JPG

[SIREN30]

18. Roman Holiday (1953)

synopsis: A young princess, tired of the constraints her position brings, runs away. She doesn't know the man who befriends her is a reporter out for a story.

One of my very favorite love stories, Roman Holiday combines beautiful black and white direction with knock out performances. Audrey Hepburn is the beautiful and bored Princess Ann who begins to have a nervous breakdown in the middle of her 'goodwill' tour of Italy. She escapes one night to see a little of Rome, fully intending to return before she is missed. Unfortunately, a tranquilizer she was given to calm her down gets the best of her and she passes out on a park bench. American newsman Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck) finds her and immediately assumes she is a college student who has had too much to drink. He takes her to his meager apartment in a huff, only to find the following morning that this girl is the self same princess that all of the European press is struggling to meet. Seeing a possible goldmine of a story, he enlists the help of his photogropher friend, Irving (Eddie Albert) and the two of them go on a mission to show the young princess a good time, grabbing a hot story in the meantime.

Gregory Peck is charming and suave-until he falls in love with the young Anne; after which he becomes more charming still. His somewhat goofy reaction to her attentions is moving and sincere. Hepburn is electrifying in her very first title role-and she won an Oscar for it. Her performance is everything it should be. Elegant, graceful, funny, spritely, precious. She is one of the loveliest things I have ever seen on film.

One of the most refreshing things about this love story is that it does not end as so many would expect. The ending is by no means a downer, but it is realistic. And we are left understanding that everyone involved is a better person for the common experience. William Wyler was rightly proud of this little gem.

favorite scene: At the 'mouth of truth'. Gregory Peck genuinely scares Hepburn in this scene. It was unplanned...and it's a classic.

http://www.moviediva.com/MD_root/MDimages/Copy_of_RomanHoliday.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Dead Poets Society- 6/10
Roman Holiday- 8/10

[SIREN30]

17. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

synopsis: By english law, sons must inherit. This law presents much difficulty for Mrs Dashwood, a widow, and her three daughters who must leave their comfortable manor and seek shelter elsewhere while Mr Dashwood's only son and his formidable wife take over their home. The must eke out a living on a meager inheritance, all the time hoping that one of the daughters may marry well and relieve them of their troubles.

Though there are those who would disagree with me, this is my pick for Ang Lee's best film. He has proven himself to be such a chameleon of a director releasing a different type of film almost yearly. The Wedding Banquet, Sense and Sensibility, Ride with the Devil, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, The Hulk, and Brokeback Mountain have all received their share of critical acclaim. But it is this adaptation of Jane Austen's novel that stands out of the pack, in my opinion. Jane Austen wrote many great books but strangely enough, Sense and Sensibility has never been one of her most popular. Perhaps it contained too many 'main characters'. Maybe the fact that Eleanor Dashwood (the 'sense' of the family) was too 'prosey' for romantic young readers. Whatever was the problem was unquestionably solved when it was brought to the screen,however.

Emma Thompson's screenplay is astonishing. She brings such life to the many characters and the story never drags at all. It is a rousing love story, a tale of family triumph, heartache, and happiness. The dialogue is flawless and eloquently delivered by all players. Emma Thompson's decision to play Eleanor (a woman of twenty six) was a brave one, as the actress was quite a bit older than the character she portrayed. Her performance is heartwrenching at times and one of the best I've ever seen. Hugh Grant was another odd choice but he is completely charming in this period role. And of course, there's Kate Winslet in her oscar nominated part of Maryann Dashwood. She is all the 'sensibility' she is supposed to be and then some. The rest of the cast is also excellent: Alan Rickman, James Fleet, Hugh Laurie, Harriet Walter all give their resume' another upswing.

I adore everything about this movie and have seen it many many times. Each time I am more impressed. Oh yeah, and the score is stunning.



favorite scene: I love a quiet moment between Maryann and Eleanor in which Maryann admits to having been foolish w/ her attentions to Willoughby. Eleanor says 'Do you compare your conduct with his?' and Maryann says "No. I compare it to what it ought to have been. I compare it to yours.'

http://www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/sense-and-sensibility-DVDcover.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Sense and Sensibility- 4/10

[Monotreme]

Although it's not on my own top 100, I am really, really glad to see Sense and Sensibility on your list. The film is so... uniquely crafted, perfectly emulating a very specific mood and time period to, well, perfection.

The acting is of course stunning, Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet (two of my favourite actresses) delivering absolutely beautiful, poignant and top-notch performances as two very different women.

Ang Lee's direction is sharp and focused, and his skill is very obvious. A wonderful film all around.

8.5/10.

[Hannibal21]

Sleeping Beauty - 9/10
Dead Poets Society - 6/10
Roman Holiday - 9/10
Sense and Sensibility - 9/10

[SIREN30]

16. The Women (1939)


synopsis: The conniving of women is masterfully constructed in this classic tale of infidelity, loyalty, and heartbreak. A credit to upperclass society, Mary Haines (Norma Shearer) lives the perfect life. She is 'content to be a woman', a wife, and a mother. But news comes thru the feminine grapevine that Mary's husband Stephen is 'stepping out on her' with shopgirl, Crystal Allen. Mary must deal with her own heartbreak, her busy-body 'friends', and her prideful independance.

THere are three movies from 1939 in my top 20. It was no doubt one of the greatest years ever for film and this is by far the best cast of the three. It is an ensemble of brilliant women (no men in the entire flick) who are just as entertaining in their differences as they are in their great acting chops. Norma Shearer is the shining star of the movie. Her Mary Haines is one of my favorite women in any film. That dreamy look of happiness on her face that is so sadisticaly affected only a short way into the film is replaced by an almost sweet tenacity; it somehow makes us love her more. She is phenomenal in this role and in my opinion she should have won the oscar that year. Though Vivien Leigh's role was the showier of the two, Norma Shearer brings life to this character that is completely ageless. The rest of the cast is also fantastic. Crystal Allen is played with panache by Joan Crawford-the only movie where I absolutely love her performance. She is the quintessential bitch. Following closely on those lines is 'catty' Rosalind Russel as Sylvia (Prowler :)) Fowler. Paulette Goddard is the 'fox' of the bunch-shrewd and tough as nails. She makes an awesome impression even though she enters the film later than the rest. Joan Fontaine, Mary Boland, Virginia Wiedler and Hedda Hopper also round out the fabulous group of women that grace this movie.

The idea of a movie about infidelity at this time when women were in the midst of gaining freedoms hitherto unknown, was in itself a very brave thing. But when it is added to the amazing dialogue, wonderful acting, and excellent story-it just becomes a legendary undertaking. I recommend this movie to everyone I see and I've never had anyone not love it to pieces. :cool:

favorite scene: When Mary speaks to her mother about her situation. It's moving and contains some inspired writing.

http://www.meredy.com/vinbw/women.jpg

[Hannibal21]

The Women - 9/10

Not among one of my all time all time favorites, but it's one of those films that I always find myself wanting to sit down and enjoy. The whole 'bitchiness' of it is oh so very inviting. ;)

[SIREN30]

15. Mr Deeds Goes to Town (1936)

synopsis: Longfellow Deeds, a simple-hearted Vermont tuba player, inherits a fortune and has to contend with opportunist city slickers.

Forget for a moment that Adam Sandler and Winona Ryders starred in an inept remake of this movie. This Capra classic is one of my favorite movies for many reasons. For one thing, it shows Capra at his optimisitic best, pitting the sweet, kind-hearted underdog against the morons of high society-with warm and endearing results. Gary Cooper is magical as Longfellow Deeds, a performance that is more to my taste than even Alvin York in the much touted biography. He is a non-materialistic, poetry writing tuba player without even a touch of worldly wisdom. When he inherits the fortune of his uncle, aptly named Mr Simple, he does what no one else would do...nothing. And of course, everyone thinks he is insane. Jean Arthur plays the conniving news reporter after the story who finds that posing as a 'damsel in distress' is just the thing to win Longfellow's confidence. Of course, she finds herself falling for him and their private scenes are some of the sweetest ever made. The quietness of them is very moving.
When Mr Deeds decides to give away his unneeded fortune, the movie takes a turn that we didnt expect. Much like It's a Wonderful Life and its downward spiral of George Bailey's 'life without me', this one also deals with the sadness of a world without the goodness of Longfellow. He is vastly taken advantage of and we feel it, every bit. But the courtroom scene at the end rivals anything ever filmed in the way of retribution. It's just marvelous.
The message of this movie is timeless and once again, life affirming.

favorite scene: the whole movie culminates in that one hilarious courtroom scene. The collective performances of Capra's staple cast are all very appealing.

http://www.gonemovies.com/WWW/XsFilms/SnelPlaatjes/ActCooperMrDeedsGoes2.jpg

[SIREN30]

14. The Big Country (1958)

synopsis: Retired wealthy sea captain, James McKay (Gregory Peck) goes West to marry his fiance Pat Terrill, daughter of a wealthy rancher. Little does Mckay know however, the Terrills are involved in a longstanding feud between neighboring ranchers, the Hannessys-a conflict that has proven bloody in the past. When Mckay refuses to take sides he must deal with the disappointment of his fiance (Carol Baker), her father, and their ranch foreman (Charlton Heston) who happens to be inlove with Pat.

Without a doubt, this is one of the best movies dealing with the old West. Gregory Peck is my 'hero' of classic film-noble, determined, wise, and brave. Carol Baker is astonishingly good as his intended and her slow descent into animosity manages to be entirely believeable although disappointing. She has spirit and we hate to see her so sadly affected by her father's predjudice. Burl Ives is the shining star of the movie; he chews up the scenery if every scene he graces. As surly Hannassey, he produces a memorable and gritty performance. Jean Simmons is charming as always, playing the gentle schoolteacher that refuses to get involved in the feud-and in that she and Mckay share scruples. It brings them together in this world of violence and greed that neither of them understand. Charlton Heston is the best he's ever been-keeping the mugging to a minimum. His sour sarcasm becomes biting rage against Mckay very quickly-and it's effective.

Though the acting is great and the movie is excellently directed by William Wyer (again :) ), it's this timeless story of family feuding that packs the most punch. I can never get enough of this movie because it shows how fruitless predjuices of all kind will inevitably prove to be.

favorite scene: There are many scenes that stand out. Probably my favorite of these would be the great fight between McKay and Leach (ranch foreman) , which is brilliantly directed with no blood and no music. We are literally tired by its finish.

http://www.medaloffreedom.com/GregoryPeckCountry.jpg

[SIREN30]

13. Giant (1956)

synopsis: Sprawling epic spanning two generations. Bic Benedict goes east to buy a stallion and finds himself coming home with the stallion's former owner, Leslie-now Mrs Benedict. Leslie must deal with becoming the lady of a giant estate while braving the drastic change in climate her move to Texas entails. Jet Rink-surly ranch hand-attempts to befriend her amid the blatant disapproval of Bic and their feud escalates as the years go by.

The relationship between Bic and Leslie is one of my favorite love stories put to film. I can identify with it so well because it mirrors in many ways my relationship with my own husband. He and Bic share many of the same traits-and I'm alot like Leslie, I suppose. So inevitably I am going to love tis movie. But there is more to it than that. It's the deft handling of a masterful story (by Edna Ferber) that really makes this movie a rousing success. The flow of the story is effortless-spanning generations, time, and life changes. The war, oil wealth, racial predjudices, class distinction all of these are dealt with at one time or another and always with great skill. The relationship between the two leads deepens and grows inspite of all of these obstacles. It's a beautiful thing.

The acting is also consistently good. Bic and Leslie are played respectively by gorgeous Rock Hudson and beautiful Elizabeth Taylor-and a purtier couple there never was. But they also do a great job with their characters' personalities. We believe them and we love their differences. As the Benedict 'brood', Carol Baker and Dennis Hopper stand out. Carol is a sexy, independant Luz- a worthy object of adoration for any oil tycoon. Dennis Hopper is full of principle-almost annoyingly so. We hate him even as we root for him. His preachiness to his flawed father is so off-putting but so well delivered. Fran Bennett, as daughter Judy, really pales in comparison to these two firecracker siblings. The relatives and neighbors of the Benedicts are also memorably represented here-and I want to be one of them. They're full of fun and spirit...a great lot of people.

And then there is James Dean as Jett Rink. Though East of Eden got the actor more critical acclaim, I am of the opinion that this was his best performance. And sadly, it was probably only the tip of the iceburg as to what he could have accomplished. His Jett is electrifying. From his surly and shy cowboy to drunken bitter oil tycoon-he is a presence. I'm so enamoured of his acting here, it's very difficult for me to put into words. It's something you must see. The boy even acts with his feet-just watch him. :) There will never be another James Dean.

favorite scene: Jett strikes oil and comes helter skelter accross the newly sprouted Benedict lawn to relay his news-'I'm a rich'n, Bic...I'm a rich boy.'

http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/dailypix/2005/Dec/15/FPI512150304V1_b.jpg

[SIREN30]

12. Singin' In the Rain (1952)

synopsis: Musical dealing with the emergence of the 'talkie' in motion pictures. Silent film actors like Lena Lamont (Jean Hagen) and Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) are facing extinction when The Jazz Singer hits it big in 1920's hollywood. Don and piano playing friend, Cosmo Brown (Donald O'Connor) go on a mission to make the next Lamont/Lockwood picture a 'talkie', only to realize that Lena's speaking voice is too atrocious for such an attempt. Debbie Reynolds also stars as Cathy Seldon, Don's nymphish love interest.

Gene Kelly's best movie for many reasons. Mainly his choreographed dance numbers that translate so magicaly to the screen. The title number is one of the best things every put to film, undeniably. It will make you smile regardless of your mood. But the movie is more than just that title number. It's also great ensemble acting (principally by O'Connor and Hagen as the two comic leads), gorgeous technicolor dance productions that carry over seamlessly into the solid storyline, brilliant 20's costuming, and hilariously infectious writing. Stanley Donnen and Gene Kelly created a flawless movie with their coupled skill...one with his gift for storytelling and one with his spine-tingling musical numbers. I hear that Kelly was very hard on his dancers-especially Reynolds. But, who can blame him when you view the finished product? There will never be another movie like it. And it's still not my favorite musical?! :D

favorite scene: 'Make 'em laugh' and Singin' in the rain are equally appealing to me but I also love the 'Broadway Melody' number-simply because it showcases all of Gene Kelly's great dancing and creative styles.
Non musically-there is also that classic scene where Lena is attempting to record her voice onto a record for the first scene of thei 'talkie'. She has trouble finding the mike, her accent is horrible, there are wardrobe malfunctions...great stuff.



http://uashome.alaska.edu/~jndfg20/website/singin2.jpg

[SIREN30]

11. Goodbye Mr Chips (1939)


synopsis: Moving story of school master Mr Chipping (Robert Donat) and his students spanning many generations.

It does not surprise me that Robert Donat won the oscar for this performance. Though James Stewart's Mr Smith is my favorite of the two performances from this spectacular year, Mr Chipping is by far the most demanding part. Donat ages at least forty years in this story and his progression is miraculous. You easily forget you are watching a young man (in very good make up) by the end of the film. Not only does he seem old; he IS old. It gives me chills and ALWAYS makes me cry.

The beautiful story of Mr Chipping (affectionately called 'Chips' by his mates) is immaculately conceived by director Sam Wood in this, one of 1939's best movies. The shy schoolteacher embarks on an emotional jouney from the moment he exits the train, so wide eyed and serious. The students scoff at his inexperience and his understandable attempts to gain respect backfire in an a very heartbreaking manner. But of course he learns and if he's not the most loved teacher in the place, he is finally respected. Then, a marvelous thing happens. Chipping falls in love. And not with just any old school ma'arm. With the beautiful angelic person of Greer Garson who simply glows with every frame she is in. Sweet and perfect Katherine marries her beloved teacher and makes him a better man in the process. Because she loves him so much, others begin to feel the same and Chipping becomes the most-loved teacher of the school, just what he always wanted. Though tragedy strikes with gut-wreching force in this film, we never stop feeling genuinely warm over this transformation of Donat's character. He becomes an icon of the school and an icon of cinema itself. The end is one of the most effective scenes ever, in my mind, and never fails to move me. And there is no doubt that it is Donat on which the whole feat hangs. I can't praise him or this wonderful movie enough.



favorite scene: The appearance of 'homely' Mrs Chipping to the other schoolmasters. It's so great it makes me giggle.

http://www.moviemail-online.co.uk/images/small/Goodbye-Mr-Chips-ss3.jpg

[SIREN30]

10. On the Waterfront (1954)


synopsis: Ex prize fighter turned longshoreman Terry Malloy struggles to stand up to his corrupt union boss.

Some of the most powerful scenes ever filmed belong to blacklisted director, Eliz Kazaan. He is a phenomenon of filmmaking, in spite of the obvious controversy. This movie is no exception and in my opinion, it is the best of his films. It speaks volumes in its relatively short run time and truly makes an impression when it comes to standing up for what is good and right in a corrupt society.

Marlon Brando is a powerhouse in this, his finest and most critically acclaimed role. It is a heartbreaking and tragic depiction of a man who has seen alot but struggles to find himself. Eva Marie Saint as softhearted, naive Edie Doyle helps him alot. But it's really the eventuality of Terry's brother Charley (played brilliantly by Rod Steiger) that wakes him up to his true mission. To bring justice and morality to the corrupt world of Johnny Friendly (iron fisted, rock-jawed Lee J Cobb) and all he represents. His fight isnt easy. Even the righteously angry priest (Karl Malden, also great) who helps him cannot convince him to 'rat' on his former mates at first. But 'right' wins out, of course and the final scene of this movie is a sock in the jaw. Once again, vindication makes for a great movie.

favorite scene: Brando's 'I coulda been a contender...' speech to his brother Charley is what makes this movie what it is...raw emotion at its finest.

http://www.gothamgazette.com/calendar/on_waterfront.jpg

[SIREN30]

9. Gigi (1958)

synopsis: Based on the novel by Colette, Gigi is a young girl coming of age in a society where marriage is taboo and mistresses are all the rage. Family friend Gaston Lachaille begins to see Gigi has more than a little girl and Gigi must deal with her own feelings and what she feels is right.

There are several reasons I feel this is the best musical ever made. Oddly enough, it contains very little of what I feel make a good musical-dancing. Actually, now that I think of it, there is none at all. And Gene Kelly-my favorite musical star- does not make an appearance. The songs, aside from the main theme and one or two others, are not monumentally remembered. Why then, does this movie effect me so?

1. it is a visual masterpiece When people ask me what the most beautiful film ever made is, I never pause before I respond 'Gigi'. The sets, costumes, and lighting all combine in a glorious montage of parisian decadence that is unrelentingly exquisite. Every single detail is perfect. Every feather is perfectly coiffed, every suit flawlessly pressed, every dress fitted to a 't'. The hairstyles and makeup, the views of paris both on set and off, have the effect of a gallery viewing instead of a motion picture. The actors are shown off to their best advantage and not an ugly thing is allowed to rear it's head-sad, unrealistic , but wonderful in this case. Vincent Minelli at his very best.

2. the songs set the mood Even if the songs in this film are not as memorable as the Rogers and Hammerstein melodys, they accomplish flawlessly what they must do...set the mood. When Maurice Chevalier stands in stately reverie at the beginning and starts into 'Thank Heaven for Little Girls', we are involved in Gigi's life. And that is what this movie is about. A girl...a little girl who grows into a lovely woman. Louis Jordan's thoughtful renditon of 'She is Not Thinking of Me' amidst the hilarious antics of Eva Gabor is classic and makes an otherwise ho-hum scene, brilliant. 'Gigi', the gorgeous love song that alerts Gaston to his true feelings for a girl he thought was a child, moves us to joy. And who can forget the loving remembrances of a couple in their twilight years 'I Remember It Well', set against the faux sunset of Trouville.

3. the characters breathe The acting is also consistently good in this movie. Leslie Caron proves she can be affective and charming-not just a great dancer. Gaston is bitter and pompous to start but eventually becomes the hero that Louis Jordan manages to make him. Hermione Gingold is sincere in her delivery as the grandmother singlehandedly responsible for Gigi's well-being. But Maurice Chevalier and Isabel Jeans (as Gigi's extravagant aunt Alicia) steal the show in their respective roles. The one because he lends an unfailing charm and the other because she is a brilliant actress. Her performance is one of my favorites and every one of her lines is quotable.

I have seen this one many times. And every time I enjoy myself wholeheartedly. If I ever have a little girl, she will love it as much as I do, I'm sure.

favorite scene: I adore every scene with Isabel Jeans training of Gigi:
Aunt Alicia: (holding up a stone) what is this?
Gigi: a topaz?
Aunt Alicia: A topaz ? Among my jewels? Are you mad?..It is a yellow diamond of the first quality.
Gigi: who gave it to you, aunt?
Aunt Alicia: A king.
Gigi: a great king?
Aunt Alicia: no a little one. Great kings do not give expensive jewels.
Gigi: why not, aunt?
Aunt Alicia: oh, mostly I suppose it's because they don't feel they have to.

http://www.leninimports.com/leslie_caron_gigi_us_dvd.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Giant- 9/10
Singin in the Rain- 8/10
On The Waterfront- 9/10
Gigi- 5/10

[SIREN30]

8. The Great Escape (1963)

synopsis: The mostly true story of an 'inescapable' prison camp during world war 2 and the prisoners who proved the SS wrong.

John Sturges did a great thing when he directed this movie. Although the subject matter has been handled with more depth and realism since, The Great Escape succeeds on a different plain. It is a perfect balance of comedy and drama . Because I had family who suffered during the Nazi regime, I am attracted to the idea of any triumph under intense persecution. But this film involves so many characters, so many GREAT characters and with their on point performances and great writing by James Clavell, I almost forget I'm watching a true story.

Steve McQueen has the showiest role as the American Hilts, 'The Cooler King'. He plays it with the same smart alleck candor that he does just about anything else. But in this, we root for him all the more because he simply won't crack-and it's great to see. James Garner is the other great American personality. As the 'scrounger', he thrills us with his smarts and later he moves us with his courage and compassion. Then we have the brits. Donald Plesence, James Donald, RIchard Attenborough, and Nigel Stock...all of them create wonderful characters. Characters that each hold a different great skill and personality flaw. Charles Bronson is very impressive as the claustrophobic 'tunnel king' and his moving relationship with fellow 'tunneler', John Leyton is one of the better aspects of the film as well. James Coburn is rock solid once again as the 'loner' and mechanically inclined 'Manufacturer'. The list goes on and on.

Even though it is inevitable that this brilliant and deeply complicated escape attempt fail to some extent, no matter how many times I see the movie-I still find myself rooting for its success. Because it is exactly what we need to see when faced with the truth of that horrible war. People who did not let it get the better of them and who kept up at least a front of bravery.

favorite scene: I've always loved the beginning...as the different prisoners arrive and attempt to escape. And then as they begin to get underway with the tunnels...how everything just falls into place.

http://uashome.alaska.edu/~jndfg20/website/steve.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Great Escape- 8/10

[SIREN30]

7.La Vita e bella (Life is Beautiful) (1997)

synopsis: An italian jew struggles to shield his son from the horrors of a nazi concentration camp during WW2.

It's purely coincidental that The Great Escape and Life Is Beautiful, two movies dealing w/ the same principle, are back to back on my countdown. Interestingly though, they are very similar movies. They both deal w/ the horrors of war using a brilliant mix of comedy and tragedy. Where The Great Escape takes place almost entirely inside the prison camp however, this film doesnt enter that realm until rather late in the story, thus linking us strongly to the players before the fact.

The first section of the movie is purely romance. And a sweet and lovely romance it is. Guido meets his 'Principessa', woos her, and wins her through a series of hilarious and moving events. The second part of the movie deals with their wonderful life as a family, along with their precious little son, Giosue. Nicoletta Braschi and Roberto Begnini-who are married in real life- have an unmistakable chemistry. They play their parts eloquently and lovingly-never straying from this compelling formula. Sweet, big eyed Giorgio Cantarini plays their son, Giosue-one of my favorite child actors. The story flows along freely and light-heartedly, until the family are inevitably taken to their supposed doom at the prison camp.

From here, the story is much more serious and, at times, difficult to watch. But for the most part, Guido's spastic attempts to shield his son from the truth by telling him it's all a game and that a real tank will be the prize still keep the viewer smiling. There are scenes where we feel the child is doomed and we shudder at the thought. But even through the turmoil and the tragedy that unfolds, we are greeted with the happiest and most victorious of endings. It's a movie that everyone should see, that will be hard on some (such as parents), but in the end leaves you with a great sense of satisfaction and admiration for the man who created it. Bravo Begnini!

I've heard this movie called 'contrived'. William Goldman couldnt get over the fact tha the fellow prisoners paid no heed to Guido and his endeavors to protect Giosue-'attention must be paid!'. There are those that have seen the english dubbed version first (BIG mistake) and therefore found it unappealing. But in the end, I think they may have missed the point. This is a love story...the love of a man for a woman, a wife for her family, and a father for his son. And as far as that goes, it's one of the best.


favorite scene: Guido steals into the radio room at the camp and speaks to his wife over the loudspeaker, heedless of his safety, to inform her of he and his son's survival. Choked up am I. :)

http://blog.afisha.uz/content/files/movie_life_is_beautiful.jpg

[SIREN30]

6. The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

synopsis: A former Korean War POW is brainwashed by Communists into becoming a political assassin. But another former prisoner may know how to save him.


The premise of this movie is now considered by many to be obselete, but the story still hits home. Raymond Shaw (Laurence Harvey) is unloveable. Not only unloveable, completely unlikeable. Yet, his fellow POWs, when asked what they thought of him, all respond with the same mechanical statement: 'Raymond Shaw is the kindest bravest warmest most wonderful human being I've ever met.' Major Bennett Marco (Frank Sinatra) knows that something is not right. After all, as he puts it "It's not that Raymond is hard to like. He's impossible to like!" He goes on a mission to find the answer to this enigma and as he does, he discovers that Raymond himself has been completely unhinged by their mutual war experience, which neither of them can truly remember. Raymond also seems to spend an inoordinate ammount of time playing solitare, which is soon discovered to be the trigger to his eratic behavior.

The acting by Frank Sinatra is really great. It's hard to believe he's the crooner of our memory, the 'old blue eyes' we've become accustomed to. Janet Leigh, as Marco's love interest', is likewise memorable as are the rest of the supporting cast. Laurence Harvey is chillingly beautiful and austere throughout the film, in keeping with his character. But the crowning glory, the shining star, the thing that puts this movie where it is on my countdown is the performance of Angela Lansbury as Mrs Johnny Iselin, Raymond's vindictive and controlling mother. She is astonishing-there's just no other word for it. Every time she's on the screen, I'm vastly uncomfortable-still, after many viewings. Lansbury takes the tenacity of this character and runs with it pulling off what is probably the best supporting perf. by a female in history. Her final scene is my favorite of the film and by far the most powerful as it uncovers some unthinkable plot twists and contains some gripping dialogue.

The final scene of the movie is also the most suspenseful I've ever seen. The direction is brilliantly edited with no score and lots of twisting camera angles. John Frankenheimer really pulled out all the stops on this one and it shows. Excellent excellent movie.


favorite scene: '...I know you wil lnever fully comprehend this but believe me when I tell you I didnt know it would be you. They thought it would bring me closer to them. I gave them everything and they paid me back by taking your soul from you. But believe this also...that when I am in power I will pull them down and grind them into dust for what they did to you.'

http://emanuellevy.com/images/photos/j70tbrn3pna.jpg

[SIREN30]

5. All About Eve (1950)

synopsis: An ingenue insinuates herself in to the company of an established but aging stage actress and her circle of theater friends

Truly, does it get any better than this? Can dialogue be any more brilliant, quick, quotable? Can acting be more accomplished on ALL counts? Was Bette Davis not the best actress of her time? Did Marilyn Monroe ever look so good or deliver such great lines ('I can't yell 'oh butler' can I? Somebody's NAME might be Butler.)? Has theater life ever been handled so deftly before or since? The answer is a resounding NO on all counts. Absolutely one of the best movies of all time, hands down. Period.

There are so many things about this movie to love. The acting, as was stated before, is impeccalble-even by Marylin Monroe, ha. George Sanders is my favorite cast member. As always, his biting sarcasm is infectious and mercenary...I love him. He plays Addison Dewitt, theatre critic extroadinairre and his deft narrative is one of the things that keep the story going. Bette Davis is uniformly at home in this, her greatest role, in which she ironically plays an aging actress. Margo Channing is the quintessential leading lady and her intelligence is only exceeded by her prowess as a thespian. But Celeste Holm, Thelma Ritter, Gary Merrill, Hugh Marlowe and of course Anne Baxter also deliver noteable performances. It's a triumph of the silver screen yes, but it's also an unforgettable look at theater life. And it's a fine expose at all times.

Needless to say, I adore this movie unabashedly.



favorite scene: Lloyd and Margo 'have it out' after Addison informs Margo that Eve is her new understudy. This after Margo has discovered Eve's true nature somewhat and wants more than anything to cut her loose. Yikes. Words like knives.

http://www.reflectingarea.com/humans/GeorgeSanders/allabouteve.gif

[TylerDurden182]

Life Is Beautiful- 3/10
Manchurian Candidate- 9/10
All About Eve- 4/10

[SIREN30]

4. A Room With a View (1985)

synopsis: Young Lucy Honeychurch has finished her schooling and opts to accompany her prim cousin Charlotte on an Italian tour. In Florence, Lucy meets George Emmerson, a quiet young man with an avid zeal for life. They feel an instant connection but Lucy relies on her proper upringing and good sense to rebuff his advances. Back home in England finds Lucy accepting the proposal of passionless Cecil Vyse...but still thinking of George. Based on the novel by E.M Forrester.

My favorite 'full-on' love story, A Room With A View has all the ingredients of a 'proper' romance. We have english accents, beautiful people, visions of Florence and the English countryside, operatic arias, turn of the century costumes, and flowers. But this movie is
so much more than a romance. Yes it's sweepingly sentimental but because the leads don't even 'get together' until the end of the film, there has to be magic along the way to make this great movie. And magic happens, believe me. Thanks to the deft handling of this great novel by James Ivory and Ismail Merchant, we experience with full force the conception of E.M Forrester. We can almost smell the cornflowers in Miss Theresa's hair. We can feel the wind in Mrs Honeychurch's garden. The sun shining on our faces in the barley field. We can smile as 'Phaeton misbehaves with his Persephone'. It's just so perfect in every way.

Lovely and pert Helena Bonham Carter is an ideal Lucy Honeychurch, though the movie by no means hangs on her's or Julian Sands' likewise elegant performance. The showier characters of the story are also the heroes of the film. Maggie Smith and Denholm Elliot well deserved their oscar nods for their respective roles. Smith is the quintessential english spinster-showing off her opinions and foibles in every turn of square shoulder or pursing of stiff lip. Elliot plays the dreamer of a father beautifully as well...and of course we love all of his odd remarks wholeheartedly. Daniel Day Louis is disgustingly proper as Cecil Vyse-we can almost hear his butt tightening as he walks. Excellent characterizations, all. Simon Callow also impresses as the Reverend Beebe-Lucy's friend and confidante and Judy Dench is a luscious Eleanor Lavish-wicked female novelist.

The direction is marvelous and fast paced...from the lovely title cards that piece the scenes together to the appropot musical score that shoots up or down as the action allows. The diologue is probably my most quoted ever...so easy to love and remember. Especially when delivered by the seasoned pros that deliver them. There are moments of this movie that will never be equalled, no matter how many films of this genre are released. It just holds the high card in every respect. The perfect romantic film.

favorite scene: 'care for a bathe?' Lucy's brother Freddy invites George Emerson for a quick bathe immediately after meeting him. Their bathe consists of a naked romp in a wooded pond and it is one of the most hilarious things I've ever seen. Especiallywhen the Reverend Beebe joins the pair and the three are inveitably discovered.

http://www.cosprop.co.uk/openwin/room.jpg

[SIREN30]

3. Mr Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

synopsis: When a United States senator dies unexpectedly, politically corrupt senators seek an 'honorary stooge' to appoint to his place-expecting him to do as he's told. Enter Jefferson Smith, patriotic leader of boys and lover of nature. Unfortunately, Jefferson is smarter than the 'average bear' and fights the corruption he never expected to see.

My pick for the best movie of 1939. It is one of Capra's greatest movies and also his most moving. Though I do not claim to be a patriotic person by any stretch of the imagination, I have such respect and admiration for Jefferson Smith. He is a man of his word, a lover of morality, an advocate of preserving nature, a good man. His journey is instantly intriguing as we see him start out a wide-eyed nature boy in the capital-a place hiterto only in his dreams. He walks dazedly through the city as if he is walking thru the gates of heaven, fawning over the great tombs of his idols. He enters the Lincoln memorial with a lump in his signature throat and stares tearfully at an child reading the Gettysburg address. Beautiful thoughts that are very rarely observed in our society. But it moves me nonetheless and I adore him for his passion. Of course, Jefferson's starry eyed idealism is promptly shot down when he discovers the corruption among his fellow senators. And though he is tempted to run, he fights them tooth and nail, culminating in one of the greatest scenes of American film history-the fillibuster.

James Stewart is a model of great acting. And this is my favorite of his performances...or any actor's performance for that matter. It's just astonishing in all respects. From innocence and naivety to determination and despondency-Stewart pulls out all the stops. He eats up this part and never stops for breath. His face, even his eyes- never fail to convey exactly what he wants to. So much control deserves an ovation. Capra has such a way with James Stewart as an actor. He gave him his most memorable roles and his best movies.

Jean Arthur is another doll of Capra's. She does extremely well in this also. She's tough and hard at first, but when she begins to believe in Smith, it's very sweet. Very easy to watch. Very sincere. The scene where she tells him her first name is a spine tingling little treat when it comes to great love scenes. Of course, the rest of the cast delivers too...Claude Rains is convincingly noble and his conflict is effective. Edward Arnold rolls across the screen like a figurative tank, crushing everything in his path-a tanacious foe. Thomas Mitchell and Guy Kibbee lend their expected comic relief with panache. Harry Carrey as senator President is unforgettable. He says very little but every one of his scenes are great.

favorite scene: The fillibuster, of course. But the whole movie is great.

http://www.moviemail-online.co.uk/images/small/Mr-Smith-Goes-to-Washington.jpg

[TylerDurden182]

Mr Smith Goes To Washington- 8/10

[SIREN30]

2. You Can't Take it With You (1938)


synopsis: Worlds collide in this tale of a young girl from an unorthodox family and a young man from a straight laced clan who decide to marry. In order for Alice to marry Tony, however, she must have his parent's approval. So Tony set out to convince his family that she is the perfect girl-and that her family isnt crazy.

It was really a toss-up between number 2 and number 3 on this countdown. Both are Capra classics and both are life-affirming and pure. But the characters (and they ARE characters) in this one work slightly in its favor. I never tire of watching the antics of the Sycamore family and the brilliance of translation by each of these tried and true actors is phenomenal. They are loveable, odd, unique, and loads of fun!
No matter what mood I'm in, I can start this movie and the moment Lionel Barrymore sets foot on the screen, I'm instantly happy. It's just that kind of movie.

The love story between Tony (Jimmy Stewart) and ALice (Jean Arthur) is also wonderful. Alice Sycamore is Tony Kirby Jr's secretary and from the first shot of them at his desk, we see that neither of them are getting much work done. It's goofy and absolutely charming, especially when Stewart delivers lines like this one : "your'e beautiful. I mean it; sometimes your so beautiful it just...it gags me." Sigh. All seems smoothe in their relationship until Tony proposes and then Alice becomes quite uncomfortable. After all, she knows what lies ahead and the reaction his family will have upon meeting her's. There's the grandfather who attends high school commencement exercises for fun and uses a crutch as a result of sliding down the bannister. There's her father who makes fireworks in the basement and her mother who schizophrenically switches between writing plays and painting. There is the sister who chooses to dance across the living room to the tunes her candy-maker husband plays on his xylophone. And then there are the gentlemen who came to be a 'lily' and never left-each one pursuing an odd dream and holding no occupation. But Tony persists and the story unfolds, pitting his straight as an arrow family against her oddball one in as entertaining a confrontation as has ever been.

I have been proud to introduce this movie to quite a few people and all of them now love it and watch it semi-yearly with me. We move the furniture and sprawl out on the living room floor, enjoying the warmth of this little flick. And we eat YCTIWY food, taffy and popcorn balls namely-we skip the wieners and saur kraut. But it's a great time and I'll never stop doing it.


favorite scene: Learn the Big Apple! :D

http://www.meredy.com/vinbw/youcant.jpg

[SIREN30]

1. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

synopsis: . An American film classic, based upon a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel: In the rural American south during the depths of the Depression, two children watch as their principled father takes a stand against intolerance.

Another kind of 'love story' and possibly the only case in history where the movie is better than the book, To Kill a Mockingbird takes an easy place at the top of my list. I will never love another movie as much as I love this one. It's so much more than a movie to me. It was a lesson in my life and I grew up watching it as if it were happening to me, so in sync was I with the kindred spirit of Scout Finch. I felt like she and I were the same person, doing the same kinds of things. Running from the creepy neighbor, trying to keep up with the older brother and his friends, beating up the boys, hiding treasures in a box under the bed-blissfully ignorant to the fact that everyone knew about it, reading at an early age, and hating dresses. I even had short hair-due to the constant entanglements with chewing gum and tree limbs.

So, when this movie first begins and we hear the child humming along to Elmer Bernstein's luminous score and we see her little hands rummaging through her box of treasures, I unfailingly tear up. It's the epitome of nostalgia for me, the loving walk through my childhood.

A gentle and leisurely movie despite some rough content, To Kill a Mockingbird benefits immensely from its near-perfect casting, particularly of Mary Badham and Philip Alford as the children and Gregory Peck in the role for which he is best remembered, as their wise and patient father. He is the best of film heroes, the noblest of all knights, the star of his sleepy little town. I savor the scenes where he bonds with his children..and sometimes surprises them, such as with the rabid dog and his shooting ability. Jem's eyes...classic.

To boil it down, I supposed, there is not a scene of this movie I could pass over. The entire thing is sheer genius and for that reason, it would be difficult to pick a 'favorite scene'. Following are some scenes which I feel are 'standout' in their emotional impact:

Tom Robinson's little boy and Jem Finch speaking through the car window.

'Miss Jean Louise, stand up. Your father's passin' under.'

Atticus reading to Scout.

Atticus sitting on the front porch listening in heartbreaking silence to his children talking while in bed. 'Jem, was mamma pretty?'

and last but not least:

'Hey Boo'

I love this movie. I just love it completely.


http://www.medaloffreedom.com/GregoryPeckMockingbird1.jpg

Well, that's my countdown. It was fun. :D

[TylerDurden182]

To Kill A Mockingbird- 10/10

[The FamilyJulas]

To Kill A Mockingbird - 7/10

The book is better

[SIREN30]

What do you think is better about the book, please? I'm just curious because usually, you like the book better because you feel the movie fails in a certain department. Since you only rate it 7/10, you must think it fails in a lot of areas...?

[The FamilyJulas]

Originally posted by SIREN30
What do you think is better about the book, please? I'm just curious because usually, you like the book better because you feel the movie fails in a certain department. Since you only rate it 7/10, you must think it fails in a lot of areas...? It's just really based on my opinion, I thought the movie was okay but the only thing that saved it was Gregory Peck's performance. I just got more into the book, only about .05% of films adapted from extremely popular books like this one impress me. I don't really think that a 7/10 is a very low rating, but with the exception of Gregory Peck it was kind of disappionting. Just my opinon.

[Hannibal21]

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town - 9/10
Giant - 9/10
Singin' in the Rain - 10/10
Goodbye, Mr. Chips - 9/10
On the Waterfront - 10/10
Gigi - 7/10
Life is Beautiful - 4/10 (Benigni is downright annoying in this film IMO)
The Manchurian Candidate - 10/10
All About Eve - 10/10 (in my top 10 as well)
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington - 10/10
You Can't Take It With You - 9/10
To Kill a Mockingbird - 10/10

A very classy top 100, SIREN! Some of the movies mentioned here are not really my cup of tea but there's far too many distinguished, worthy classics included for me to complain otherwise. :)

[ilovemovies]

Roman Holiday - ****
Sense and Sensibility - *** 1/2
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington - *** 1/2