I have a
book called 1001 Movies You Should See
Before You Die. That’s a lot of movies. Even I don’t think I have time
enough to watch them all. There are also some entries that I don’t really agree
with. Even going through AFI’s Top 100 Films, I have enjoyed a good number of
them but don’t always feel that they are that important to me. So in light of
that, I have comprised a list of 75 films I think everyone should see. It’s a
very doable list. I’m sure you’ve already seen a good number of them. Also, I
made this list with choices involved. I think everyone should see a foreign
film in their lifetime, I may recommend Amelie,
but if you watch any foreign film,
you’re already doing good by opening up yourself to a different culture of
moviemaking. So here’s my list. I have put it in order of release year. Enjoy.
And feel free to comment. How many have you seen?
1. A BUSTER KEATON COMEDY
Recommendation: The
General [1927]
Why: It’s important to have a well-rounded
appreciation of black & white silent films. While Keaton was often eclipsed
by Chaplin, his films were also masterpieces of comedy.
The Big Scene: Clearing the track for a locomotive
Alternative: Steamboat Bill Jr. [1928]
2. A MARX BROTHERS COMEDY
Recommendation: Duck
Soup [1933]
Why: The Marx Brothers cared less for story
but excelled at comedic bits strewn throughout their films. Duck Soup is
the definition of zaniness, whether it be Groucho’s flawless fast quips or a
hat routine with a couple vendors.
The Big Scene: Harpo mimics Groucho in the ‘mirror’
Alternative: A Night at the Opera [1935]
3. A CHARLIE CHAPLIN COMEDY
Recommendation: Modern
Times [1936]
Why: There are plenty of silent, black
& white films out there, but Chaplin’s work stands out. He was the first big
movie star and his comedies still are funny today. While Modern Times was made later in his career, it encapsulates a lot of
what made Chaplin’s films so fun.
The Big Scene: The eating machine
Alternatives: City Lights [1931] or Gold
Rush [1925]
4. AN EARLY DISNEY FILM
Recommendation: Snow
White & the 7 Dwarfs [1937]
Why: It’s always great to see where
animation got its start. I believe Snow
White was the first movie I saw in the theatre (a re-release of course). It
still holds up even though Snow White’s voice gets a little too annoying.
The Big Scene: The introduction of the dwarfs
Alternatives: Pinocchio [1940] or Robin
Hood [1973]
5. THE WIZARD OF OZ [1939]
Why: This magical fantasy is fun for all
ages. There are so many iconic images and lines from this film. The songs are
so memorable, the characters are so entertaining, and the visuals are so
colorful. It’s always a good reminder that there’s no place like home.
The Big Scene: The Scarecrow introduction
6. A CLASSIC FILM NOIR
Recommendation: The
Maltese Falcon [1941]
Why: It’s an interesting genre that
influences a lot of the crime films we see today. Humphrey Bogart is perfectly
cast as the witty yet cynical Sam Spade in this twisting yarn. Peter Lorre and
Sydney Greenstreet also give fantastic performances.
The Big Scene: The delivery of the Maltese Falcon
Alternative: Double Indemnity [1944]
7. CITIZEN KANE [1941]
Why: There’s a good reason this film is
often number one on ‘best movie of all time’ lists. You might not see it
immediately, but listen to Roger Ebert’s commentary and you’ll have a new
appreciation for the artistry and technical skill that went into this film.
Trust me.
The Big Scene: ‘Rosebud’ (opening scene)
8. CASABLANCA [1942]
Why: It’s one of the best scripts around.
It has drama, romance, comedy, action. It is filled with memorable lines.
Humphrey Bogart is amazing as Rick Blaine, every word out of his mouth is pure
gold. This is one of the best classic films. Period.
The Big Scene: Dueling anthems
9. A FIFTIES/SIXTIES MUSICAL
Recommendation: Singin’
in the Rain [1952]
Why: These expensive productions were
important when it came to bringing joy
to those affected by the war. Singin’ in the Rain has a fun story and classic
songs like “Good Morning” and the hilarious “Make ‘Em Laugh”.
The Big Scene: “Singin’ in the Rain”, in the rain.
Alternative: West Side Story [1961]
10. AN ALFRED HITCHCOCK FILM
Recommendation: North
By Northwest [1959]
Why: Hitchcock was the master of suspense.
While Psycho may have the more famous
scene, North by Northwest has the
better plot and dialogue. Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint bring flirting to a
whole new level.
The Big Scene: Running from the crop duster
Alternatives: Rear Window [1954] or Psycho
[1960]
11. SOME LIKE IT HOT [1959]
Why: There’s good reason why this film was
named the best comedy of all time by AFI. Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis are
hysterical dressed in drag to avoid the mob. The funny lines keep coming at
you. Marilyn Monroe is pretty awesome too.
The Big Scene: ‘Well, nobody’s perfect’
12. A STANLEY KUBRICK FILM
Recommendation: Dr.
Strangelove [1964]
Why: Kubrick is one of the few directors
who was able to master almost every film genre (Billy Wilder and Spielberg are
runners up). Most of his
great films also contain some disturbing elements (Clockwork Orange), so Dr.
Strangelove as a comedy is probably the most accessible.
The Big Scene: No fighting in the war room
Alternatives: The Shining [1980] or 2001 [1964]
13. A [SEAN CONNERY] JAMES BOND FILM
Recommendation: Goldfinger [1964]
Why: I also like Daniel Craig’s Bond, but
Connery originated the role. He had this chauvinist charm that was acceptable
back then. Goldfinger has all the
classics: Pussy Galore, Oddjob, ‘shaken, not stirred’ and the incredibly slow
moving laser. Also the most spoofed Bond
The Big Scene: “No, Mr.
Bond, I expect you to die”
Alternatives: You Only Live Twice [1967]
or From
Russia with Love [1963]
14. THE SOUND OF MUSIC [1965]
Why: As much as I sometimes hate to admit
it, this film is one of the best musicals ever. Julie Andrews is radiant as
singing nanny Maria. The songs are incredibly memorable and the story is even
compelling at times. It runs a tad long but who really cares.
The Big Scene: Learning to sing through Salzburg
15. THE GODFATHER [1972]
Why: This film is a masterpiece. Stellar
acting from an impressive cast including Brando and Pacino, brilliant script
that has many memorable lines and filled with pathos, and stunning use of
cinematography and darkness. Part II is not so shabby either.
The Big Scene: ‘I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t
refuse’ (opening scene)
16. A JACK NICHOLSON ‘TOUR-DE-FORCE’ FILM
Recommend: One
Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
[1975]
Why: Jack Nicholson is amazing in many of
his films. While he ‘steals’ films in supporting roles (A Few Good Men, Batman), he commands the screen when he’s the star.
Cuckoo’s Nest is outstanding thanks
to Nicholson and his battle with Nurse Ratchet.
The Big Scene: The vote for the baseball game
Alternatives: Chinatown [1974] About
Schmidt [2002]
or
As Good As It Gets [1997]
17. JAWS [1975]
Why: This is the first summer blockbuster.
No one ever thought of putting a big film in the summer months. The anticipation
of the shark and trio of men determine to catch it is suspenseful and fun. I
often forget how gory it can be at times.
The Big Scene: ‘You’re gonna need a bigger boat’
18. MONTY PYTHON AND
THE HOLY GRAIL[1975]
Why: Depending on your appreciation of
British humour, this is one of the funniest films of all time. It’s great zany
fun with instantly quotable lines. You could be laughing non-stop
from beginning to its startling abrupt end.
The Big Scene: The Black Knight (merely a flesh
wound)
19-21. THE ORIGINAL STAR WARS TRILOGY
A New Hope [1977], Empire Strikes Back [1980],
Return of the Jedi [1983]
Why: I shouldn’t have to explain why this
trilogy is important. Star Wars is
the Citizen Kane of science fiction.
George Lucas has blessed us with an amazing trilogy that’s impact is still felt
today. Watch the doc Empire of
Dreams to really appreciate it’s amazingness.
The Big Scene: “I am your father”
Best of
Trilogy: Empire Strikes Back
22. ROCKY [1976]
Why: It’s the ultimate underdog story.
Stallone is pretty impressive in this film, even more impressive is that he
wrote it as well. It may not be the most beautiful film out there but it sure
has a lot of heart. Stallone makes you want to root for Rocky the whole time.
The Big Scene: The training montage
23. A WOODY ALLEN FILM
Recommendation: Annie
Hall [1977]
Why: I know Woody Allen is not everybody’s
cup of tea but the guy has a large catalogue of great films, he pretty much has
a new film every year. Annie Hall is a classic love story that is full of wit,
truth, love and originality. Diane Keaton and Allen are great together.
The Big Scene: The subtitled conversation
Alternative: Manhattan [1979]
24. APOCALYPSE NOW [1979]
Why: There are many war films but this one
is the one to watch. Along with its beautifully shot landscapes, Coppola delves
into the madness and horror of war as Martin Sheen goes on quest during the
Vietnam War. Even the making of documentary is riveting.
The Big Scene: ‘I love the smell of napalm in the
morning’
25. A MARTIN SCORSESE/ROBERT DE NIRO COLLABORATION
Recommendation: Raging
Bull [1980]
Why: It’s beautiful to see a director and
actor work so well together. Sure, Scorsese is now with DiCaprio, but it all
started with De Niro. Not only does Raging
Bull have fantastically edited boxing sequences, but it is full of drama
and intensity. De Niro gained 60 pounds for the role.
The Big Scene: Jake accuses his brothe
Alternatives: Goodfellas [1990] or Taxi
Driver [1976]
26. A ZAZ (ZUCKER, ABRAHAMS, ZUCKER) COMEDY
Recommendation: Airplane! [1980]
Why: The directing trio was the master of
slapstick. Airplane!, like their
other films, are filled with parodies, visual gags, one-liners and breaking the
fourth wall. Sure there may be some groans here and there but overall, laughs
will be plentiful.
The Big Scene: Opening airport sequence
Alternatives: The Naked Gun [1988] or Hot
Shots! [1976]
27. THIS IS SPINAL TAP [1984]
Why: It’s the grand-daddy of all
mockumentaries. This fake band did such a great job with their hilarious
interviews, bizarre onstage mishaps and funny song parodies, they actually
became a real touring band following the film. Turn this one up to eleven.
The Big Scene: Stonehenge
28. BACK TO THE FUTURE [1985]
Why: This comedy fantasy holds up
surprisingly well. Who wouldn’t want to see what their parents were like as
teenagers? Michael J Fox and Christopher Lloyd are amazing together in this fun, fast-paced thrill ride. The sequels are pretty good too.
The Big Scene: The clock tower countdown
29. A JOHN HUGHES ‘TEEN’ FILM
Recommendation: Ferris
Beuller’s Day Off [1986]
Why: John Hughes was the master of the teen
film. While he may have written adults as blithering idiots, he totally
understood the youth of America. While Breakfast
Club may have more edge and highschool class system, Ferris is just a great fun throughout.
The Big Scene: Racing the parents home
Alternatives: The Breakfast Club [1985] or
Sixteen
Candles [1984]
30. THE PRINCESS BRIDE [1987]
Why: This is a classic family fairy tale
with its tongue firmly in its cheek. It’s pretty meta in the fact that they
play up the fairy tale clichés. This movie is almost as quotable as Holy Grail.
It’s the clever dialogue and eccentric characters that make it more than just a
romantic tale.
The Big Scene: Vizzini’s test (Inconceivable!)
31. DIE HARD [1988]
Why: This is the ultimate action flick.
Every other ‘confined space actioner’ was compared to this one: Speed is ‘Die Hard on a bus’. Bruce Willis is outstanding but so is Alan
Rickman as the slimy villain. Great action, great one-liners, great fun from beginning to end.
The Big Scene: Roof jump with fire hose
32. BIG [1988]
Why: It’s simply magical. Tom Hanks is
perfectly cast as a child in a man’s body thanks to a wish at a carnival. There
are some fantastic comedic moments but also a few heartfelt ones. This
high-concept ‘what if’ comedy inspired later films like Liar Liar.
The Big Scene: The big piano
33. AN INDIANA JONES FILM
Recommendation: Indiana
Jones & the Last Crusade
[1989]
Why: This is what adventure is all about.
With the exception of the shaky Kingdom
of the Crystal Skull, the rest of Indy series is full of non-stop thrills.
Last Crusade is the most fun of the series with Sean Connery adding that
special touch.
The Big Scene: The three trials
Alternative: Raiders of the Lost Ark [1981]
34. A GOLDEN ERA DISNEY FILM
Recommendation: The
Little Mermaid [1989]
Why: The nineties contained some of
Disney’s best work with fun songs, great stories and amazing visuals; it was
practically a rebirth for Disney animation. Mermaid
has the best soundtrack of them all and Ariel doesn’t look too shabby
either.
The Big Scene: Under the Sea
Alternatives: The Lion King [1994] or Aladdin
[1992]
35. WHEN HARRY MET SALLY … [1989]
Why: This is the gold standard of romantic
comedy. I think it even beats Annie Hall.
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan are so wonderful together. They perfectly break down
the relationship between men and women. Lots of notes could be taken during
this movie.
The Big Scene: Fake orgasm in the deli
36. A FEW GOOD MEN [1992]
Why: It’s one of the best courtroom dramas
ever . While Jack Nicholson steals practically every scene he is in, Tom Cruise
brings great seriousness and humour. Lots of credit goes to Aaron Sorkin who
wrote the screenplay from his own play.
The Big Scene: ‘You can’t handle the truth!’
37. A WESTERN
Recommendation: Tombstone [1993]
Why: This is not my favourite genre but I
believe it stills holds some importance, style wise. I haven’t seen that many,
so I’m sure others would have better recommendations. Tombstone is a bit more
modern and has some stylish mustaches.
The Big Scene: “I’ll be your Huckleberry”
Alternatives: High Noon [1952] or 3:10
to Yuma [2007]
38. GROUNDHOG DAY [1993]
Why: Bill Murray is a genius and it is put
on display over and over again in this film. He can be snarky and sarcastic but
also warm and caring. The concept of reliving the day is interesting and fun,
no wonder other films have used the same concept since.
The Big Scene: ‘I’m a god’ breakfast scene
39. AN EARLY QUENTIN TARANTINO FILM
Recommendation: Pulp
Fiction [1994]
Why: While Tarantino’s latest offerings of Inglorious Basterds and Django Unchained have more audiences
recognizing his work, it’s his early gems that will leave you on the edge of
your seat. Pulp Fiction is a
masterpiece of non-linear storytelling.
The Big Scene: Ezekiel 25:17
Alternative: Reservoir Dogs [1992]
40. FORREST GUMP [1994]
Why: Watching history take place through
this man’s eyes is at times glorious and at other times heart-breaking. Tom
Hanks is brilliant as the slightly slow Forrest Gump. The stories are so
engrossing and wonderfully told you forget how long the movie actually is.
The Big Scene: Run, Forrest, Run!
41. THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION [1994]
Why: While critics stick with Citizen Kane,
most ‘regular folks’ list this one as their favourite. The story is incredibly
interesting and dramatic. Morgan Freeman is riveting as Red and his narration
is spot on. I’m not a Tim Robbins fan, but he rocks this movie.
The Big Scene: Freedom in the rain
42. THE USUAL SUSPECTS [1995]
Why: I often call this my favourite film of
all time. It is the perfect blend of twisty storytelling, sharp dialogue, stellar
acting, creative cinematography and expert editing of both sound and visuals.
Kevin Spacey is amazing; no wonder he got the Oscar.
The Big Scene: The ending reveal
43. A PIXAR FILM
Recommendation: Toy
Story [1995]
Why: Pixar never fails to impress (except Cars 2). The stories,
characters, visuals, wit and humour are unmatched when it comes to computer
animation. Toy Story is so relatable
and fun, try not to smile when watching it.
The Big Scene: “You can’t fly” “Yes, I can”
Alternatives: Finding Nemo [2003], Wall-E
[2008] or
The Incredibles [2004]
44. A TONY SCOTT FILM
Recommendation: Crimson
Tide [1995]
Why: The late Tony Scott was known for his
frenetic style with almost always added to the intensity of his films. Crimson Tide is a great vehicle for Denzel who would work with him four more times. Gene Hackman also rocks.
The Big Scene: I do not concur . . .
Alternatives: Man on Fire [2004], Enemy
of the State
or Spy Game [2001]
45. CLUELESS [1995]
Why: Some might scoff at this film being on
this list but Clueless does a fantastic job of
capturing the youth of America, much like Hughes did in the 80s. Amy Heckerling wrote a great screenplay for Alicia Silverstone to
shine in. Paul Rudd is good too.
The Big Scene: LA Freeway freakout
46. AN EARLY MICHAEL BAY FILM
Recommendation: The
Rock [1996]
Why: Before Michael Bay started ruining our
childhood with Transformers, he was
linked with Jerry Bruckheimer and made some fun summer blockbusters. The Rock is loads of fun with Sean
Connery & Nicholas Cage. Great action, funny lines, stellar villain.
The Big Scene: The shower room massacre
Alternatives: Bad Boys [1995] or Armageddon
[1998]
47. A JIM CARREY COMEDY
Recommendation: Liar
Liar [1997]
Why: Not everyone enjoys Jim Carrey’s
humour but his high-concept premises manage to bring out the best in Carrey. Liar Liar has a sneaky lawyer unable to
lie for twenty-four hours, it’s a great concept and Carrey is fantastic in it.
Get ready to laugh.
The Big Scene: The pen is blue!
Alternatives: Bruce Almighty [2003] or Yes
Man [2008]
48. A JAMES CAMERON EPIC
Recommendation: Titanic [1997]
Why: The fact that Cameron has the top two
spots in the biggest grossing films of all time is no coincidence. He may take
his time making films, but they are worth it. Titanic has everything you look
for in a film: drama, action, romance, history and even some comedy.
The Big Scene: The sinking of the ship
Alternative: Avatar [2009]
49. THE MATRIX [1999]
Why: This is ground-breaking
science-fiction. It ranks with Citizen
Kane and Star Wars with changing
the cinema landscape with technical advances. The cinematography is mesmerizing
and even Keanu Reeves is fun to watch. Don’t watch the sequels though.
The Big Scene: Avoiding bullets on the roof
50. THE SIXTH SENSE [1999]
Why: Many people take issue with M Night
Shyamalan’s later work but no one can deny the awesomeness of this film.
Everything in this film is so expertly crafted that the big twist ending makes
you want to watch the whole thing again immediately.
The Big Scene: The twist
51. THE IRON GIANT [1999]
Why: Disney doesn’t have the monopoly on
animation. The Iron Giant is similar
to E.T. but feels less hokey. This
film is endearing and packs an emotional wallop. I even had a tear in my eye at
the end. A beautifully made non-Disney animated film.
The Big Scene: Hyper Hogarth tries espresso
52. A DAVID FINCHER FILM
Recommendation: Fight
Club [1999]
Why: Fincher is known for his
meticulousness. He shot the opening Social
Network scene 99 times to get it right. But that kind of commitment shows
in his final product. It may often be dark but it’s also perfection. Fight Club adds some dark humour to the
mix.
The Big Scene: Opening voice over (with Ikea
furniture)
Alternatives: Se7en [1995], The Game [1997] or
The Social Network [2010]
53. A JOHNNY DEPP/TIM BURTON FILM
Recommendation: Sleepy
Hollow [1999]
Why: Sure, Depp is amazing in Pirates of
the Caribbean but he does some of his quirkiest best work with Tim Burton at
the helm. Sleepy Hollow is full of creepy fun and mystery with Depp giving it
all as a frightened Ichabod Crane.
The Big Scene: Ichabod faints
Alternatives: Edward Scissorhands [1990],
Ed
Wood [1994]
orSweeny Todd [2007]
54. A SWORD & SANDAL EPIC
Recommendation: Gladiator [2000]
Why: These epics are filled with honor and
glory as we often root for the man (or men) who defy an empire. Gladiator is Russell Crowe at his best;
Joaquin Phoenix is also phenomenal. It has a wonderfully told story, great
action and an immersive Roman world (thanks to CGI).
The Big Scene: Maximus takes off his helmet in the
ring
Alternatives: Ben-Hur [1959] or
300 [2007]
55-57. THE LORD OF THE RINGS TRILOGY
Fellowship of the Ring [2001], The Two Towers [2002], Return of the King [2003]
Why: Talk about ambitious. Peter Jackson’s
labour of love is evident in every frame of this epic trilogy. Everything works
in this trilogy, it is one of the best novel adaptations of all-time. Try to
watch the extended editions to get even more greatness.
The Big Scene: Gollum talking to himself
Best of
Trilogy: Fellowship of the
Ring
58. OCEAN’S ELEVEN [2001]
Why: It’s one of the best heist films. Not only is it cleverly put together but it is unbelievably fun as well.
The cast is phenomenal and the one-liners are perfectly crafted. It’s hard not
to watch this film with a huge smile on your face.
The Big Scene: The heist reveal
59. A FOREIGN FILM
Recommendation: Amelie [2001]
Why: Expand your horizons by watching
something with subtitles and open your mind to other cultures. Amelie is
whimsical, fun and full of emotion. Audrey Tautou does such a great job, you
root for her the entire time.
The Big Scene: The final bike ride
Alternatives: Pan’s Labyrinth [2006], Run
Lola Run
or Cinema Paradiso [1988]
60. A BAZ LUHRMANN FILM
Recommendation: Moulin
Rouge! [2001]
Why: Luhrmann’s films are filled with rich
visuals, frenetic camera moves, passionate love and stellar acting (you can
avoid Australia though). Moulin Rouge is eye-poppingly original
and trippy with an outrageous mashed up soundtrack to boot.
The Big Scene: Spectacular, Spectacular promo
Alternatives: Romeo + Juliet [1996] or
The
Great Gatsby [2013]
61. ELF [2003]
Why: This is the new Christmas classic.
Will Ferrell’s innocence is so endearing you will be rooting for him the entire
time. There may be some silly stuff here and there but Ferrell’s Buddy the Elf
is sure to warm your heart at Christmas time.
The Big Scene: Seeing ‘Santa’ at the store
62. A CHARLIE KAUFMAN SCRIPTED FILM
Recommendation: Eternal
Sunshine of the
Spotless Mind
[2004]
Why: Kaufman’s work is so cerebral and
trippy, you will be mesmerized. Eternal Sunshine mostly takes place inside
someone’s brain, specifically their memories, and while it is sometimes dark in
nature, it's also great fun.
The Big Scene: Under the table
Alternatives: Being John Malkovich [1999] or
Adaptation
[2002]
63. GARDEN STATE [2004]
Why: This is probably one of my favourite
indie films of all time. Zach Braff writes, directs and stars in this simple
story of man learning to live with his past and look to the future. Natalie
Portman is perfection, so is the cinematography and soundtrack.
The Big Scene: Yelling into the infinite abyss
64. ANCHORMAN: THE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY [2004]
Why: Only someone like Will Ferrell can
turn a self-centred, misogynistic buffoon into a rock star. His fellow news
reporters are also a special brand of crazy. There are non-stop hilarious lines
and non-sequiturs throughout that you’ll be quoting for days. ‘Milk was a bad
choice’
The Big Scene: News Team rumble
65. A HARRY POTTER FILM
Recommendation: Harry
Potter and the
Prisoner of Azkaban
[2004]
Why: Everyone should experience this
magical series based on the novels. Azkaban is when the series switched to a darker edge with deeper
shadowy visuals, better acting and a great time twisting plot.
The Big Scene: Snape may not be the villain
Alternatives: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire [2005]
66. A MORGAN SPURLOCK DOCUMENTARY
Recommendation: Super
Size Me [2004]
Why: Michael Moore may have made
documentaries more mainstream with the great Bowling for Columbine, but Spurlock has way more fun. He gets
involved and tries new things. Super Size
Me is both eye-opening and amusing.
The Big Scene: The McSweats
Alternative: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold [2011]
67-69. THE CHRISTOPHER NOLAN
BATMAN TRILOGY
Batman Begins [2005], The Dark Knight [2008],
The Dark Knight Rises [2012]
Why: No offense to Tim Burton’s fine
installments of Batman, but Nolan knocks it out of the park. A stellar cast and
dark morality tales about the human condition put these stories of the caped
crusader on a whole other level.
Heath Ledger’s Joker is brilliant.
The Big Scene: Joker crashes a party
Best of
Trilogy: The Dark Knight
70. STRANGER THAN FICTION [2006]
Why: Another incredibly clever premise for
a comedy/drama. Will Ferrell is a person who can hear his life being narrated
as he lives it. The film not only is full of laughs but also makes you think
about how you should live your own life.
The Big Scene: Flirting with flour and guitar
71. 500 DAYS OF SUMMER [2009]
Why: This has the same magic of Annie Hall and When Harry Met Sally but with a more hipster edge in its non-linear
way. The chemistry between Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deshanel is wonderful.
Also like Garden State, uses the music incredibly well.
The Big Scene: The post-sex dance
sequence
72. INCEPTION [2010]
Why: The idea alone is worth watching.
Going into someone’s mind to steal secrets is captivating, especially at the
hands of director Christopher Nolan. Leonardo diCaprio and Joseph Gordon-Levitt
are a treat to watch and the effects are top notch.
The Big Scene: Fighting in the revolving hallway
73. A WES ANDERSON FILM
Recommendation: Moonrise
Kingdom [2012]
Why: Anderson has a style all his own with
his quirky characters, precise narration, lists of items, fun music and
overhead shots. You could really watch any one of his films to appreciate these
elements, but Moonrise Kingdom has
the added cuteness factor.
The Big Scene: Setting up camp
Alternatives: Rushmore [1998], Royal
Tenenbaums
or Grand Budapest Hotel [2014]
74. THE AVENGERS [2012]
Why: Each of the Marvel superheroes are
great on their own but even more fantastic together. Joss Whedon brilliantly
gives each hero their due while also letting them play off each other. What
could have been a mess has a comic book fan’s dream.
The Big Scene: Hulk vs Loki in Stark Tower
75. THE LEGO MOVIE [2014]
Why: Not only is this film like Toy Story on Red Bull, but it has a
fantastic message about using creativity instead of always following the
instructions. Great nostalgia, crazy fast action and meta humour abound.
Spaceship!
The Big Scene: Everything is Awesome
There you
have it. Thanks for reading.
