My Personal Top Ten Movies

[Chief Rum]

I know we have done this before (or I'm pretty sure we have), but I wanted to toss out my Top 10 movies of all time. These are just movies that I have personally seen, and their listing here in this Top 10 is completely a reflection of my enjoyment of them, not their actual quality.

1. Shawshenk Redemption-- My favorite (obviously). Whenever I get down, I think about the story in this movie, and I am reminded of how persistence and hope are powerful combinations.

2. Field Of Dreams-- Yeah, it's sappy stuff. But I love baseball, and this movie always reminds me how much I love it--and it makes me think of my Dad, too.

3. Braveheart-- Always been a fan of a good historical epic, especially one with kick ass battle scenes like this movie. It's a rare movie that can both rock with the battle scenes and with the underlying story as well.

4. The Usual Suspects-- Kevin Spacey is the man! I love good twists in movies, and this one is the twist of all twists. Great stuff.

5. The Godfather-- I'm a guy. What do you expect? Surprisingly, I'm not as big a fan of Godfather II (which is very good, but doesn't make the Top 10).

6. Lethal Weapon II-- Kinda funny, because when I look back at it now, I always notice how unlikely the set of coincidences are that set up the crime story in this one, and also how Riggs and Murtoff are constantly getting away with incredible shit (like charging into the South African embassy, and not being suspended, things like that), but it's just a kick ass and funny action flick.

7. Raiders of the Lost Ark-- Sometimes I feel like this one is beginning to get a little dated, but it's still required watching whenever I see it on. Indy kicks ass; even old, I can't wait Harrison Ford in Indy 4.

8. The Empire Strikes Back-- Best of the Star Wars films, and holding its age much better than Star Wars, IMO. It's the most compelling story so far in all five Star Wars films, it's the darkest, and quite frankly, it's simply the coolest scifi flick ever made.

9. The Matrix-- You can guess I am eagerly awaiting Reloaded. Say what you want for Keanu's acting skills, but he got himself into a killer flick here. Few movies keep the heart pumping like this one.

10. The Abyss-- I figure no one will agree with me, but I think this was Cameron's best. I am a big scifi fan, and this is a really neat story. You care about the characters, and the effects are incredible.

Didn't Quite Make It (listed in no particular order): The Godfather II, Star Wars, Major League, The Natural, American Beauty, The Sixth Sense, Rocky II, Start Trek II: Wrath of Khan, Tin Cup, Platoon, FOTR and The Two Towers.

Anyone else wanna offer up a list (or critique mine)?

Chief Rum

[SackAttack]

I can't imagine how you can include Shawshank on there and completely omit The Green Mile from consideration. They're both great movies, but TGM is easily the better of the two, IMO.

[Ragone]

Wee lemme see here

1. White men can't jump (Favorite) I've always been a big Pickup Basketball fan, and this movie was the first to really show it.. and the basketball wasn't bad either..

2. Matrix- Talk about walking into a second career defining movie.. Keanu lucks out bigtime.. as his previous career defining movie was Bill and Ted.. not something you wanna be remembered for..

3. Sixth Sense- I'm a big fan of Plot twists, but ones that make sense later when you rewatch them.. which leads me to

4. Unbreakable- I love this movie, and honestly.. i think it could have been a hour longer.. With a better ending.. this could be #1 alltime for me..

5. Empire Strikes Back- As previously stated, probably the best Star wars made thus far.. Has everything from a cliffhanger ending, to Billy dee williams! what more could you ask for

6. Happy Gilmore- Your laughing clown.. your having a good time.. I'm not a big fan of Adam Sandlers last oh.. 5 films.. but This is a favorite

7. Mst3k the movie- Being a big Mystery Science theater fan, i'd have to include the movie in my top 10.. or would it be worst 10 for the actual movie they watched?

8. The Ring- For pure horror value, and the fact that the ending got me in the theater as i was leaving

9. Major League-Funny baseball movie.. With the Indians ace throwing the ball at a whopping 36 mph.. makes you wonder how they won any games

10.X-Men- A long awaited movie from the comic.. and hell probably the best one done to date from a comic

Notables:Signs,Top Gun,Cb4,Caddyshack

[Dawgfan1980]

1. Clerks - Shows how people really think about you when you get that cup of coffee in the morning

2. Casino - How many times does Pesci say Fuck?

3. Pulp Fiction - The launch of Samuel L. Jackson

4. Fight Club - What the hell??? A great guy movie, and where else do you hear the line "I haven't been done like that since elementary school" or (The cut) "I want to have your abortion!"

5. Godfather - Great Movie, Classic, and as mentioned before, I'm a guy!

6. Usual Suspects - Kevin Spacey does such a great job, and you have to watch it so many times, it isn't even funny

7. The Program - Just cause I love football, damn it!

8. Major League - Great movie, but Number Two has better lines by Uecker, but still...

9. Dazed and Confused - Just to see Ben Affleck as a big bully, and how many times can that kid grab his nose

10. Dogma - A religious comedy with George Carlin as a Cardinal in the Catholic Church... Dripping with irony that I don't have to point out, I hope!

[ACStrider]

1. Glory - Superstar cast with a powerful story. The fact that it's a true story adds to the enjoyment.

2. Braveheart - Gibson's greatest in my opinion. Very moving.

3. Shawshank Redemption - Well written movie. The more I watch it the more I see.

4. Meet the Parents - I couldn't stop laughing in this one...Focker.

5. Saving Private Ryan - Most accurate portrayal of 20th century warfare in its raw form. Inspiring.

6. The Sandlot - Wow...talk about childhood memories...playing ball with the kids in the neighborhood. This one hit close to home, and I got a lot of laughs out of it.

7. So I Married an Axe Murderer - My favorite Myers movie. I could watch this one again and again.

8. Unforgiven - Very deep movie and my favorite from Eastwood. Dispells the myth of the west and raises profound questions of human nature.

9. Mystery Men - Don't laugh at me for this one. Yeah, it was corny, but I totally got into the humor!

10. Fellowship of the Rings - yeah, the sequel was a "better movie" but FotR was closer to the book, and one heck of a book to movie. I enjoyed FotR more.

[Schmidty]

1. Rushmore

2. The Princess Bride

3. LOTR: FOTR

4. LOTR: TTT

5. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

6. Any of the Evil Dead movies

7. Neverending Story

8. Dagon

9. The Exorcist 3

10. Frailty


Others: Chasing Amy, Willow, A Clockwork Orange, Omega Man, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, In the Mouth of Madness, The Thing, They Live, Big Trouble in Little China, Prince of Darkness, The Fog, The Golden Child, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.......

[astralhaze]

No way I can narrow it down to ten and I definately can't rank them, but some of my favorites off the top of my head:

Apocalypse Now
A Clockwork Orange
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Shindlers List
2001
Vertigo
Mulholland Drive
Memento
Abre Los Ojos
Chasing Amy
Rushmore
Reservoir Dogs

that's enough for now...

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by SackAttack
I can't imagine how you can include Shawshank on there and completely omit The Green Mile from consideration. They're both great movies, but TGM is easily the better of the two, IMO.

Heh...maybe it's because Shawshenk came first, or maybe it's because Shawshenk had the "better" ending if you know what I mean, or maybe I was just disturbed with having to identify with either a miracle man on death row or a 30s prison guard with a urinary infection, but Shawshenk just speaks to me on so many levels that The Green Mile didn't.

TGM is a fine movie, but I got much more of a "this is a solid and interesting and well-made movie, but it doesn't really appeal to me personally" sort of feeling. Shawshenk, though, when the twist is revealed and the final actions are set in motion, you just want to stand up and cheer. It's a movie that, to me, is the epitome of triumphing over powerful odds. It really is an inspiration for me to consider that someone with as little hope as a lifetime convict could so realistically achieve his dreams--and bring hope to others at the same time.

And, even if the story wasn't squat or the acting wasn't great, the dialogue alone make this a simply wonderful film. It's like the Godfather--you could extrapolate an important life's lesson from seemingly every line in the film. Can you tell I have thought about this?

I mostly did that list off the top of my head, BTW--I don't actually keep a top ten list anywhere. So some of your suggestions already have me considering and re-considering what I have omited. Several-- Glory, Pulp Fiction, Dazed and Confused, Saving Private Ryan, Fight Club, Top Gun, Happy Gilmore, Caddyshack--all could have been considered for spots on my Top Ten, as I immensely enjoyed them all.

However, I feel quite a pang of guilt over having forgotten The Princess Bride. Thank you for reminding me, Schmidty. What a wonderful, funny movie that is. That is another one I make it a point to never miss when I see it's on.

Therefore, I am declaring it 10a on my list.

Chief Rum

[Vince]

1) The Matrix. As others have said...say what you will about Reeves' acting abilities, this was an amazing movie, combining killer special effects with an absolutely phenomenal storyline. I absolutely cannot wait for the sequel.

2) The Truman Show. I believe that Jim Carrey might just be the most talented actor of this generation, and watching him in a dramatic role is just as entertaining, if not more entertaining, than watching him in a comedic role. Brilliant plot, and in my opinion pulled off exceptionally well.

3) Rudy. I can think of very few things in the world that I love more than sports, and Football is one of my favorite sports. Perhaps I'm a sucker for a melodramatic movie, but this was an incredibly stirring story. I still can't watch it without crying.

4) The Usual Suspects. I, like Chief Rum, am a real sucker for great twists in movies, and this one takes the cake. Plus, I know one of the actors (Kevin Pollack).

5) Top Gun. Tom Cruise is undeniably Maverick. He fits the role so well, it's scary. Excellent movie, combining romance, drama and action extremely well.

6) Memento. Fantastic plot (as if you couldn't tell, the plot of a movie is key to my enjoyment), and it really has you guessing the whole way through it.

7) The Empire Strikes Back. By far the best of the Star Wars movies, and enough people have talked about it by now that you know why I like it.

8) Willow. In my opinion, the best film ever written for the 'swords and sorcery' genre. Simply a great, fun movie.

9) Gladiator. Ok, so I'm a History major whose emphasis is Ancient Greece and Rome. That might have something to do with it. But it's still an excellent movie, my personal bias aside.

10) The Silence of the Lambs. Truly a creepy film. Anthony Hopkins is amazing no matter what role he plays, and in this one, he is truly remarkable.

11) No Man's Land. Foreign film, won best foreign film Oscar a couple of years ago. For a history class, 'War and Society,' I had to watch it as a requirement. Quickly became one of my favorite movies...absolutely amazing. I can't say enough good things about this movie.

Honorable Mention: Almost any Disney film ever, especially Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin. Raiders of the Lost Ark. The Neverending Story. Saving Private Ryan. Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Aliens. Amadeus. Tombstone. Moulin Rouge. War of the Worlds.

EDIT: I second Chief...there are so many movies that could be on this list, but I just can't think of them at the moment. You guys have already reminded me of a few; The Princess Bride, Any of the Indiana Jones movies, etc. But this is what I came up with at first, so I'll leave it at this.

[astralhaze]

Originally posted by Vince
11) No Man's Land. Foreign film, won best foreign film Oscar a couple of years ago. For a history class, 'War and Society,' I had to watch it as a requirement. Quickly became one of my favorite movies...absolutely amazing. I can't say enough good things about this movie.

YES YES YES

You are one of a handful of people I have ever read or talked to who has even seen this movie. It is a Bosnian film set in, surprisingly enough, the conflict there in the 90's. The entire story is fictional, but intensely metaphoric. Great screen writing, direction, and acting. A huge surprise for me, one of the biggest suprises of any movie I have seen.

[Vince]

Astralhaze: Thanks for backing me up...as if anyone reading this hasn't caught it, this movie was absolutely fantastic. I would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who has two hours to spare...look it up at the local Blockbuster et al, and watch it. You have to put up with subtitles (unless you know French and Serbo-Croatian), but it is well, well worth it. Immensely funny at times (especially the French soldiers' repeated hopeful attempts to find someone who speaks French), and totally metaphorical, like Astralhaze said, this is a fabulous movie.

[cthomer5000]

Originally posted by SackAttack
I can't imagine how you can include Shawshank on there and completely omit The Green Mile from consideration. They're both great movies, but TGM is easily the better of the two, IMO.

no way. Although the Green Mile was one of the best books I've ever read, I thought the movie left a lot to be desired.


Does anyone else think the Shawshank Redemption is the best movie to not win an Oscar? It almost blows my mind that it didn't, but there was some real stiff competition that year.

[cthomer5000]

What jumps to my head when thinking of my favorite movies (so basically in order):

• The Shawshank Redemption
• Trainspotting
• Rushmore
• The Royal Tennenbaums
• Rush Hour (a perfect comedy)
• Pulp Fiction
• Amelie
• Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrells
• the Empire Strikes Back
• Terminator 2

I'm sure I've forgotten a lot, but that's what jumps to mind.

honorable mentions: Boogie Nights, The End of the Affair, the Matrix, The Godfather (I and II).

[Super Ugly]

Nothing really new in my list, but what the hey:

1) Annie Hall - my favourite Woody Allen film, anyway
2) Apocalypse Now
3) Dude, Where's My Car?
4) Clerks
5) The Ring trilogy - I haven't been to see the remake, and I'm not sure if I really want to
6) Any Given Sunday
7) Goodfellas
8) Easy Rider
9) The Wicker Man - one of the scariest films I've ever seen.
10) La Haine

Not a comprehensive list, and no way are they in any order ...

[lcjjdnh]

Top 10 in no particular order

-Annie Hall
-Forrest Gump
-The Sting
-Wall Street
-Meet the Parents
-Apollo 13
-One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
-Ferris Beuller's Day Off
-Cool Runnings
-Clue

[Fritz]

Amended List

Saving Private Ryan
Blues Brothers
Sandlot
Animal House
My Blue Heaven
Ferris Beuller's Day Off
Princess Bride
Raising Arizona
Henry V
The Professional
Glory

[oykib]

Vertigo
Gattaca
The Sandlot
The Godfather
Superman
Fist of Fury ( a.k.a. The Chinese Connection )
Blade
Unbreakable
Half-Baked
Gundam: Char's Counterattack

[Logan]

Here's my list:

1. The Usual Suspects - Someone once asked me, "How do you define what is the BEST movie?" I quickly thought of the following: "If I can see any movie again for the FIRST time, so it would be a whole new movie, what movie would that be?" The Usual Suspects is the obvious answer. Words can't describe how much I love this movie. Still get chills when I watch it...

2. The Shawshank Redemption - I think this has been covered enough already in this thread.

3. A Bronx Tale - Fantastic acting, and a powerful story. "Throw him in the f*ckin batch-room!"

4. Dazed and Confused - Honestly, could you ask for a greater movie about one day in the 70's?

5. Goodfellas - I think the fact that everyone has "borrowed" the "walking through the kitchen" Steadycam shot shows how great this Scorcese movie is. And Pesci was fantastic, among others.

6. The Boondock Saints - A movie that really makes you question "right and wrong." Never heard of it before I watched it, and by the end of it, I knew it was going to be on my favorites list. The story is told/shot in a very special way.

7. Office Space - Waaaaayyyy too funny! The first time I heard the "no talent ass clown" exchange, I thought I was going to die.

8. Clerks - IMHO, the best writing in a comedy ever.

9. Rounders - No movie gives me a rush like this one gives me to head to AC .

10. Ocean's Eleven - Nothing about this movie was "the best" (individually), but it's just a fun movie that I can watch again and again...

[Anrhydeddu]

1) The Matrix. As others have said...say what you will about Reeves' acting abilities, this was an amazing movie, combining killer special effects with an absolutely phenomenal storyline. I absolutely cannot wait for the sequel.

Amazing (again) how two people can see the extreme opposite. I consistently put The Matrix in my 5 worse movies that I have seen (I don't see a lot of movies anymore). But I have always known I am in the extreme minority of one on this.

[MizzouRah]

Good thread... like video games, it's hard to put down a top 10 and not forget a movie or two, but here's what I come up with.

1. Top Gun - This movie is the first movie I ever purchased (VCR) and I still get chills when the Top Gun theme is played.
2. Tron - a classic by Disney, for its time, the video effects are mind blowing.
3. Tombstone - I'm your huckleberry.
4. Forrest Gump - My name's Forrest Gump, people call me Forrest Gump.
5. Snake Eyes - Nicholas Cage, my favorite actor. I just love this movie.
6. Fast and the Furious - Watch this one on a widescreen, HDTV with surround sound!
7. Gone in 60 seconds - Nicholas Cage and Angela Jolie.
8. Full Metal Jacket - I can almost recite this whole movie.
9. Slingblade - I like them french fried potaters. UmmmHmmm..
10. Big Momma's house - Had to get a Martin Lawrence film in here somewhere.

There are so many good movies I could fit somewhere on my list, but these are among my favorites.

Sorry, I couldn't forget to include:
10a. When a man loves a woman - Andy Garcia is one of the most smooth talking, suave men around and Meg Ryan is one heck of an actress.


Todd

[Anrhydeddu]

My list:

1. Gettysburg

2. Raiders of the Lost Ark

3. Excalibur

4. Godfather I

5. Planes, Trains and Automobile

6. The Name of the Rose

7. The Mummy

8. Ocean's Eleven (2001)

9. Groundhog Day

10. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Honorable Mentions:

Godfather II
Eastwood's Fistful of Dollars/For Few Dollars More/Good,Bad,Ugly
Trading Places
Patriot
Saving Private Ryan
Harry Potter I
Sting
Wargames
Ferris Bueller

[Calis]

This is a toughie, but off of the top of my head, and roughly in order.


Requiem For a Dream
Pulp Fiction
The Big Lebowski
Braveheart
Goodfellas
Chasing Amy
Raging Bull
Dog Day Afternoon
Ran
Iron Monkey

Honorable mentions to waaay too many to say. Although one that might break in that I just watched last night was Spirited Away, what did folks think of this? For an animated slighltly kid-oriented film I thought it was superb, just a great setting that was produced.

[korme]

1) Snatch

2) Good Will Hunting

3) Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels

4) Memento

5) Mallrats

6) 61*

7) Ali

8) Bad Boys

9) Fight Club

10) Shawshank Redemption


Honorables: Ocean's Eleven, Chasing Amy, Half-Baked, Office Space

[B & B]

Tombstone
Rounders
Fight Club
Wall Street
Glengarry Glen Ross
Tommy Boy
Office Space
Big Trouble in Little China
Breakfast Club
Casablanca


Going out to rent No Mans Land and The Ring this afternoon. Id recommmend any of my top 10 movies for the same, as Ive seen each of them at least 5 times.

[DeToxRox]

1. Big Lebowski

This is the most original movie I've ever seen, and not to mention the funniest. John Goodman deserved an Oscar for his role as Walter Sobcheck, he was just that funny. It's amazing.

2. Resevoir Dogs

Mindless violence. Gritty production. This movie is just flat out sadistic, and it rocks the world. I cannot believe how sickening it is, and I love it

3. Usual Suspects

Spacey is the man, as was stated above. The plot twists are insane, and it's the kind of movie that makes you keep thinking the entire time you get done watching it.

4. Dogma

Another well written comedy that crosses every line imaginable. Forget the huge cast, just concentrate on how funny the writing actually is. The best mixture of smart wit and blow job humor.

5. Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Most horror movies annoy me. I don't get scared really, I just sort of get bored, but this was different. This movie was, for some reason, an amazing see. Leatherface is one bad ass my friends. Forget Jason, when I want to see some chainsaw wielding, I'd call Leatherface.

6. Death to Smoochy

Robin Williams in his funniest role to date. He and Ed Norton were priceless as Rainbow Randolph and Smoochy. So many amazing one liners in this movie, I was crying watching it. The scene where Randolph is outside the courthouse is one of the funniest ever.

7. Slap Shot

The perennial sports movie. It was perfect for its time, coming off of the Broad Street Bullies in Philly. Nothing makes me laugh harder then see the Chiefs play Syracuse in the final game with all the exiled players making returns.

8. This is Spinal Tap

Mockumentaries rock. This one was so incredibly funny, I was in stitches for the entire time. Just the seriousness that Guest and the others showed was great. Getting lost backstage, lol, I think that totally made my year.

9. Platoon

The war flick to end all war flicks. Charlie Sheen and Tom Berringer are amazing. Berringers role causing me to hate him until he becomes Jake Taylor. It was violent, it was fast pace, but most of all, it seemed very real. My dad was a vietnam vet, and he said that war movie is the closest to accuerate as he's ever seen. That's definitely a plus.

10. Die Hard

John McLean is a bad ass. This was also the last role (well, I loved all 3) where I liked Bruce Willis. I won't hold his new stuff against him, only because of the Die Hard triliogies. I'm hearing a 4th is coming out, if this is true, does this mean Bruce is... BACK?!

[tucker342]

1. Matrix
2. Return of the Jedi
3. American Beauty
4. Office Space
5. Bravehart
6. Dogma
7. Half Baked
8. American Pie
9. LOTR The Two Towers
10. LOTR The Fellowship of the Ring

[Radii]

1. Field of Dreams
2. South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut
3. Dogma
4. Star Wars (I kind of lump the entire trilogy together, I don't prefer seeing any one of the 3 over any of the others)
5. LOTR (same here)
6. Forrest Gump
7. Pulp Fiction
8. Alladin (yeah, the disney movie, Robin Williams was spectacular, and of course, great story)
9. Saving Private Ryan
10. American Beauty

Lots of movies have been mentioned that I absolutely love for honorable mentions:

The Green Mile, Office Space, Monty Python &... Holy Grail, 2001, Full Metal Jacket, Rounders, Oceans 11, also, I loved Jurassic Par, though I think I'm just attached to it b/c it's my favorite book ever.

[mckerney]

Originally posted by Schmidty
3. LOTR: FOTR

Worst. Movie. Ever.

[cthomer5000]

Originally posted by Anrhydeddu
Amazing (again) how two people can see the extreme opposite. I consistently put The Matrix in my 5 worse movies that I have seen (I don't see a lot of movies anymore). But I have always known I am in the extreme minority of one on this.

just out of curiosity, could you explain what you think makes it one of the worst movies you've ever seen? I could understand you being indifferent, but there are so many truly horrible movies out there, I find it amazing you would view the Matrix as being of exceptionally poor quality.

[GrantDawg]

Originally posted by Anrhydeddu
Amazing (again) how two people can see the extreme opposite. I consistently put The Matrix in my 5 worse movies that I have seen (I don't see a lot of movies anymore). But I have always known I am in the extreme minority of one on this.

It just shows how different peoples taste are. I loved the Matrix, but Shawshank wouldn't be in my top 100. Amd you listed Excalibur, which would be in my top 5 worse movies.

As for my list. I don't think I could narrow it down to ten, and I know that ten minutes after I finished one I would want to change it. It is interesting see all of yours though.

[EagleFan]

Not in any particular order, but the movies that I cannot turn off if I stumble across them.

Die Hard - Either 1 or 3, 2 was quite dissapointing. Much better than other action hero kind of movies because it takes a somewhat common person and puts them in the situation.

Braveheart - Great movie.

South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut - Laugh my @$$ off funny.

The Lost Boys - Something just hooks me with that movie. Good soundtrack and I like the movie.

The Patriot - Another great.

Rocky - Only the original can make this list though as they get progressively worse until they burn in a putrid pile that is 5.

Blazing Saddles - A classic.

American Pie - Either 1 or 2 can fit here. Just a fun laugh your butt off kind of movie.

American Beauty - A good movie with a very odd feel to it. I usually don't take to odd movies but this one is good.

Christmas Vacation - A classic, must watch, holiday movie.


Others that receive consideration are many of Clint Eastwood's westerns, Saving Private Ryan, Spies Like Us, Fletch, Kelly's Heroes, The Truman Show, Happy Gilmore, ...

[Schmidty]

Originally posted by mckerney
Worst. Movie. Ever.

Ok.

[MizzouRah]

American Beauty is another great movie!


Todd

[Vince]

Man, I don't know how I could have forgotten Jurrasic Park...the scene when they are in the Jeep, and they notice the dinosaurs for the first time is awe inspiring. The book was a million times better, but Jurrasic Park is definitely one of my favorite movies of all time.

The Lost Boys is also a great movie, although I'm not sure if I'd put it in the top 10...the one thing that gets me, though...

Originally posted by Super Ugly:
3) Dude, Where's My Car

Ouch...I know everyone is entitled to their own opinion...but in a top ten list of all time?

[QuikSand]

Hmmm... it's always hard to properly balance movies I was recently versus those I saw some time ago (I sense some of the same in this thread) but here's a shot at it:

Dr. Strangelove - in my book, the funniest movie ever made

American Beauty - I claim that this film may be considered, given some time for perspective, the greatest American film ever made...

Crimes and Misdemeanors - And this, in my book, is on the short list for those that Amercian Beauty eclipses for that honor

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre - Unbelievable morality play, stands the test of time very well, I think

Twelve Angry Men - I love the intimacy in the jury room, and it's very well acted

The Seven Samurai - Some recent discussion here has me hot to see this again, it's been 15 years for me, I think

Do The Right Thing - Yes, I have a weakness for the morality play... but I really thought this film hit the mark just right

This is Spinal Tap - it's almost cliche how this movie has caught on and become pop culture itself, but it's really brilliantly conceived

The Deer Hunter - might have stuck with me more than any movie I've ever seen - very lasting psychodrama

Goodfellas - my favorite mob movie, and again, I fall for the morality play (though slightly less heavy handed)


My list of apologies is pretty long, and if you asked me in a year for my top ten again, I suspect I'd only have half of them the same. I also am not including many of the "coolest" movies... as much as I enjoy them, I think they are like the junk food of moviedom. There's just more nourishment to a great film than there is to a cool movie. Not that I didn't really enjoy The Usual Suspects or Memento, I'm just not putting them onto the top shelf just yet.

[QuikSand]

Originally posted by Anrhydeddu
Amazing (again) how two people can see the extreme opposite. I consistently put The Matrix in my 5 worse movies that I have seen (I don't see a lot of movies anymore). But I have always known I am in the extreme minority of one on this.

Amazing, I agree. I suspect your feelings about The Matrix are very much in line with mine about one of the films on your top ten list, The Mummy. I went with a friend to see it, we nearly left in the middle, and ended up just laughing at all the cliches and contrived plot twists throughout. I apologized for picking the movie, but my friend decided he had more fun making fun of that stinker than seeing a routine flick... so it worked out fine, I suppose.

Anyway - if you found The Matrix to be so packed full of cliches and crap to call it terrible, I can see the point. (I'm of a split opinion on that movie, byu the way) But I can also see that this sort of formula works for some (apparently very well), and not for others... seemingly case by case.

[TLK]

In rough order 1-10.....

1- Duets- Very underrated and overly criticized
2- Jerry Maguire- A great story and the incoperated football..... that works for me.
3- Cocktail- Not too much of a Cruise fan but, he stars intwo of my top three movies.
4- Memento- One of those movies that makes go "huh", and then start over.
5- Almost Famous- Another great story that is easy to get into
6- Office Space- Watch it and try not to compare it to your place of employment
7- Clerks- I wasn't even supposed to post today on this board
8- Go- Great cast with a good story
9- Rudy- It's had to watch and not cry
10- Super Troopers- Not a masterpiece, but damn funny to sit and watch

TLK

[cschex]

I don't post often, but I love a good movie thread...
No rankings, too hard.

L.A. Confidential - very surprised this hasn't been mentioned. IMO, the best movie of the past 20 years. Superb ensemble, and launched the careers of Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe.

The Godfather, Parts I and II - everything's been said, though I think II is just a bit better, and it has the greatest ending scene to a movie EVER.

The Big Lebowski - God, I love this movie

Chinatown - Nicholson and Polanski's best work and a superb ending.

Sunset Boulevard - the best movie from the best director ever, Billy Wilder.

Chasing Amy - sentimental pick. I always have ot stop and watch whenever it's on TV.

Dr. Strangelove - Agreed, absolutely the funniest movie I've ever seen

Love and Death - speaking of funny, combines two of my favorite things, Woody Allen and Russian novels.

The Graduate - best use of popular music in a movie, and funny as hell.

Battle for the Planet of the Apes - err, just kidding.

Quiz Show - I think Redford is better director than he was an actor, and this movie amazes me everytime I watch it.

Left off the list(but might make it someday)- American Beauty, Memento, The Verdict, The Sting, The Empire Strikes Back, Brazil, Tora! Tora! Tora! and a whole bunch more.

[Craptacular]

Without looking at the other posts (trying not to be biased or reminded about any one in particular), here are my favorites:

Top 3:
Caddyshack
Vacation
Spaceballs

Next bunch (no particular order):
Christmas Vacation
Fifth Element
Shawshank Redemption
Tombstone
Dumb and Dumber
Independence Day
UHF
Cheech and Chong's Up In Smoke
Happy Gilmore
History of the World, Part I
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Uncle Buck
PCU
Austin Powers Int'l Man of Mystery
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

edit: OK, now looking at some others, here are some I forgot ... call 'em group two-and-a-half:
Major League
Saving Private Ryan
Mystery Men
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Animal House
Office Space
Groundhog Day
Die Hard

[Anrhydeddu]

homer, GrantDawg and QuikSand: I fully expected to have that riled some sensibilities around here, esp. after seeing Matrix appearing near the top on several lists. My answer to the question about many other movies being just bad, that is probably true but I have not seen any of those. Many would agree that what is listed at IMDB as the worse 100 movies rated but except for many one or two, I hadn't watch those. I picked the following movies as my worse that I've seen: Indiana Jone Temple of Doom, Matrix, Bull Durham and a few others solely for the reason why many of us would put Civ3 on the "losers" list and not Extreme Paintball. Civ3, like Matrix, came with significant hype and there are some that love them. Matrix, for me, had a very stupid and uncomphrensible "plot" and the "dazzling" special effects got really boring and repetitive after a while. Plus the acting was very pedestrian and quite bad actually. Quality has nothing to do with it, I just did not enjoy one second of the movie.

That leads to my next answer. I judge a movie, book or album solely on whether I like it or not. Whether the movie, book or album is well made or not, is irrelevant to me. That is why I can sit here and slam Eco's books, Kubrick's movies and certain kinds of music and games. I have the same reaction and experience watching a badly made movie that I did not like as I would watching a great quality movie that I also did not like.

As far as why movies like Mummy and Excalibur are on my list (and have been since they came out) is that I, as you can tell, am definitely not "high brow". I seldom watch movies and when I do, I just want to be entertained. The movies on my list are the ones that have entertained me over and over and over. The same thing applies to favorite games where the ones on my top list are the ones that I have played over and over again.

[John Galt]

1. Dr. Strangelove (I just watched it again last night)
2. Big Lebowski (the Dude abides - a movie with so much subtext and clever humor, that I don't know where it fits in "great" movies, but I never get tired of watching it)
3. American Beauty (I only thought it was "pretty good" the first time I saw it - it is definitely a movie that is better with each viewing)
4. Life is Beautiful (it is easy to dismiss Benigni because of his other work and because he was so annoying, but the movie is incredible story and insightful view of the Holocaust)
5. The Game (Fincher's best film and yet his least popular - wonderful story of fate)
6. Requiem for a Dream (absolutely stunning and gripping)
7. Hoop Dreams (best documentary ever - I just wish it would come out on DVD)
8. Full Metal Jacket (greatest half of a movie ever - the 2nd half is underrated - my favorite "war" movie)
9. Blue Velvet (David Lynch's finest movie had a style so unique and compelling)
10. Memento (a movie that makes the list only because of its concept and execution)

There are so many honorable mentions that I wouldn't know where to start, but to add movies others haven't named: Dark City, Bridge over River Kwai, Citizen Kane, Thin Red Line, and Mulholland Drive.

[Anrhydeddu]

The Godfather, Parts I and II - everything's been said, though I think II is just a bit better, and it has the greatest ending scene to a movie EVER.

I have heard quite a few say that as well. To me, I thought the ending to II was a big letdown. I mean, he was sitting there and they had some flashbacks. How was I suppose to know what he was thinking? Even after I had read what he thinking (something about 'where do I go wrong?'), my reaction was, 'uhhh ok'. The ending to Godfather I was superb imo, at least I instantly recognized the emotional and psychological impace, as oppose to the befuddled ending to II. Incidently, as much as folks have slammed Godfather 3 (and rightly so), the last 30 minutes (the opera scene and its many sidecuts) was absolutely stunning, imo.

[Qwikshot]

The Third Man
Unforgiven
Road Warrior
Usual Suspects
MASH
Saving Private Ryan
Godfather
Halloween
Full Metal Jacket
The Wild Bunch

honorable mention

All the Jazz
JAWS
Pulp Fiction
Matrix
Apocalypse Now
Blade Runner
Fight Club

mindless movie I can watch over and over

Airplane
Kung Pow: Legend of the Fist

[Chief Rum]

If it makes you feel better, A, I understand completely how you might judge the Matrix as you have, even if I disagree completely. There's plenty to not like about the Matrix. It's all about what appeals to you.

For instance, Gettysburg is a solid movie and you have it as #1. And, yeah, it has war scenes which are always cool, and poignant battlefield decisions and what not. The acting was very good. But what I remember from Gettysburg was that its length outstripped its excitement, leaving a lot of dull parts; that there were so many characters it was hard to really identify with any of them (Jeff Daniels came closest, IMO); that the musical score wasn't strong enough to evoke the kind of passion I think the filmmakers were trying to show on the battlefield; and that historically accurate or not, long stretches of battle fought in vision-reducing forest and involving tactical changes that most movie goers aren't going to get. To me, this is a just an okay movie with an interesting story to tell, but the delivery may have been a bit flawed, IMO. But my bet is that you disagree with much of what I just said and that you also don't hold it against me that I feel otherwise.

As for the Matrix, yeah, the acting wasn't great. Even the normally excellent Fishburne was a little over the top. Reeves is almost always bad, Moss is mostly forgetful, and Pantoliano doesn't do as good a job, IMO, as I am used to him doing. Of course, I think the casting for Agent Smith (forget the guy's name) and the Samoan brother who saved the day was pretty good. But the script was excellent from the standpoint of giving you defined and memorable characters. Morbeus, Neo and Agent Smith are all eminently unforgettable.

The story is also intriguing. In scifi land, the concept of man-built machines and alternative realities is almost clicheed, but for most moviegoers the concepts were probably relatively new. The plot also did a good job of moving forward the story, with the mystery of what the Matrix is and how Neo fits into it doing well for the first half of the movie, and then the rescue of Morbeus in the second half.

Then you toss in some amazing computer graphics (like the helicopter crashing into the skyscraper, wow; the bullet tracings, the odd by cool camera twisting work), a very strong sound accompaniment (it was loud and tense and thumping whenever the action was going on), and a combination of very well done martial arts choreography combined with fantasticly intricate and interwoven special effects to enhance them, and you end up with, for me, a mind-numbingly powerful and visual experience. I do like action, and I do like loud and fast movies, so this was probably right up my alley anyway, but to me, this was just plain, pure fun--adrenaline on film.

Don't worry, A, about judging a book, album, or game by how you like it--that was the point of my initial Top Ten (as I stated), and I think everyone has done pretty well to keep it within those boundaries. This isn't about the Top Ten movies of all time. It's about the Top Ten Movies You Have Enjoyed.

As for the Godfathers, I agree with you on everything. The ending of the first one was thrilling and poignant to me. It represented a final full turnaround from a young and rebellious Michael at the beginning of the film wanting to do anything but be like his father, to the end where he essentially becomes exactly like his father. Also, is there anything more macho (ignoring moral sensibilities) than having your five competitiors and backstabbers all killed while you serve as godfather (double entendre there) to your nephew?

Godfather II's ending was interesting, but I'll be the first to admit I don't exactly understand the significance of the ending. So Michael's going off to war as a Marine. Sounds like a fine set up for the first Godfather (where he is still in the mode of doing everything he can to not be like his father), I must have missed the deeper message. I would love to hear what in particular people like about it, as I have a feeling I have missed something.

A, I also agree about then end of 3. Very good last half hour, with a series of actions that brought to mind the killing spree at the end of the first one. But, of course, this one didn't end so well for Michael Corleone or his daughter. That was a very powerful moment at the end, IMO.

Chief Rum

[cthomer5000]

I think for anyone watching any movie, it basically comes down to whether you "buy" the movie and get sucked into it, or whether you can't get past analyzing the actual movie itself. I bought into the Matrix, because I found the concept so fascinating. There are other movies most people like that I couldn't get into.

I was surprised to see someone mention the movie Unbreakable on their 10-best list. I was very excited to see the movie, absolutely loved[ the basic concept, but came away annoyed at the ending, while still liking the film overall. To me the flaws were too obvious to ignore, but I let the interesting script make up for it.

As soon as I make a list like this, my omissions immediately jump to mind. I would definitely drop something in the 10 i listed earlier to include American Beauty, and perhaps a few others.

[Karim]

In no particular order:

Scarface
Aliens
Fight Club
Seven
Terminator
Air Force One
Fist of Legend (remake)
Die Hard II
First Blood
Thirteen Days

Ones that didn't make the list but easily could on another day: Saving Private Ryan
Memento
JFK
Usual Suspects
Die Hard I
Hunt for Red October
Clear And Present Danger
Bourne Identity
Once Upon A Time in China
Marked For Death
Field of Dreams
To Kill A Mockingbird
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Matrix
XXX
Alien
Top Gun
Manhunter
Under Siege
FOTR
The Insider

[Logan]

dola...can't believe I left The In-Laws off my list, especially since it's been on my mind for months, ever since I found out it would be coming out on DVD on May 13th. Possibly the funniest movie ever. Serpintine!!!

9 more days...

[RonnieDobbs]

In no particular order, the best movies ever:

The Big Lebowski
Raising Arizona
Dr. Strangelove
Usual Suspects
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Dazed and Confused
Waking Life
Adaptation
Scarface
Godfather Part II

[cschex]

In terms of the Godfather endings, I agree that the endings of all are great, I just think the image of Micheal sitting alone at the end of II is the most powerful image of those movies. It haunts me every time I see it. Then again, so does Part I, and even Part III did, as I recall. (I've only seen it once and don't feel the need to see it again). So obviously Coppola has his endings down.

[dawgfan]

I don't think there's any way I could distill a top-10 list without feeling like I've left out at least 20 more. I think all of my favorites have been mentioned already with one exception:

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead

This may in fact be my all-time favorite movie. I can watch this over and over again and still enjoy it. For anyone who appreciates well-written plots with several layers of interpretation, great acting, clever humor and a healthy dash of Shakespeare thrown in, it's a must-see. Gary Oldman in one of his few non bad-guy roles (a comedy part in fact), Tim Roth in fine Form, plus a great turn by Richard Dreyfuss. Just an outstanding movie that I desperately wish would be released in North America on DVD.

Other faves :

Comedy:
Animal House
Cheech & Chong's Up In Smoke
Monty Python's Holy Grail
Monty Python's Life of Brian
South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut
A Fish Called Wanda
This Is Spinal Tap
Dr. Strangelove
Some Like it Hot
The Trouble With Harry
Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
Being There

Fantasy/Sci-Fi:
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Raiders of the Lost Ark
The Princess Bride
Blade Runner
Aliens

Drama:
The Godfather
Apocolypse Now
Memento
A Clockwork Orange
Fight Club
Pulp Fiction
Vertigo
Goodfellas
Yojimbo