Skepsis' Top 50

[Skepsis93]

I've put this off for a while for various reasons. There are still many, many important films I have yet to see, but I thought you guys might appreciate a list of my current Top 50. As has been mentioned in innumerable other threads, this is a list of my favorite films, not those I consider to be the "best". So expect some guilty pleasures scattered in.

Some of you will probably dislike this one, but I do consider my taste to be eclectic, and somewhat unusual, so hopefully it will be entertaining even if you don't necessarily like the films. I hope to promote some healthy debate at the very least!

Ok, without further ado... I hope you enjoy my list. Eek. :eek:



#50: Run Lola Run (Tom Tykwer, 1998)

http://www.jonathanrosenbaum.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/run-lola-run-3.jpg

A delightful little frenzy of a movie, starring Franka Potente as the title character, a woman who has twenty minutes to find and deliver 100,000 lost Deutschmarks to her boyfriend before he does something drastic in an attempt to fix his problem. Told within three shorter segments, each depicting a different course that Lola takes with drastically different conclusions, it leaves me breathless every time.


#49: Man on the Moon (Milos Forman, 1999)

http://i2.listal.com/image/748992/600full-man-on-the-moon-screenshot.jpg

In my mind easily one of Jim Carrey's best performances - his likeness to the late comedian Andy Kaufman is astonishing whether it be in his voice, body language, or even physical appearance. This whole movie is hilarious as well as being a riveting biography of a performer who was truly ahead of his time.


#48: Black Dynamite (Scott Sanders, 2009)

http://goregirl.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/still-from-black-dynamite2.jpg

Easily up there with the very best comedies of the decade. Literally laugh-a-minute and in such varied ways, from intentional in-shot boom mics to subtle references. Michael Jai White and the rest of the cast are brilliant in both parodying and paying a loving homage to the "Blaxsploitation" films of the 70's.

[HitchFan97]

Another Top 50 list! Hell yeah!

[honeykid]

Great start, Skepsis. I really liked the first two and the third is just :cool:

[Skepsis93]

Thanks guys! :D

More tomorrow.

[sreenathpktr]

Run Lola Run...:up:

[Skepsis93]

#47: Groundhog Day (Harold Ramis, 1993)

http://bluraymedia.ign.com/bluray/image/article/950/950235/groundhog-day-20090202030712393-000.jpg

Classic Bill Murray, Groundhog Day is a gloriously entertaining look at what could happen were you made to live one day over and over again. Murray plays grouchy weatherman Phil straight as can be which only makes it all the funnier.


#46: Wall-E (Andrew Stanton, 2008)

http://cdn.binarymoon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/wall-e2.jpg

One of Pixar's finest films to date, this is a benchmark film in animation history. The gorgeous visuals, endearing characters and expert writing make Wall-E a joyous experience for (forgive the cliche) all the family.


#45: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (Quentin Tarantino, 2003)

http://www.glogster.com/media/1/3/25/59/3255948.jpg

A violent, gory, mesmerising thrill-ride. The first of two appearances for Tarantino on this list (can you guess what the other one is?), it's a near-perfect blend of bloody-thirsty action and a simple yet engrossing story.

[under0ath777]

Love Groundhog Day!.. One of my favorite comedies of all time. It's funny as hell..

[LuDiNaToR]

Nice start. It would be intersting too see what the mofo top 100 would look like now.

[lundy1026]

Well done so far Skepsis! These are all great movies!! :)

[Skepsis93]

Thank you all. :)

[Skepsis93]

#44: Chicago (Rob Marshall, 2002)

http://www.glogster.com/media/2/6/3/14/6031427.jpg

The only musical I really love, Chicago appeals to me equally with its storyline as its great musical numbers. Richard Gere, Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones are all great and John C. Reilly shows he has real acting chops too.


#43: Back to the Future Trilogy (Robert Zemeckis, 1985, 1989, 1990)

http://cdn.whatculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/doc-and-marty.jpg

This is the only cheat this list will have, I promise - I just can't bring myself to choose between them. To me they are all equally as good, from the wonderful introduction with my favourite Back to the Future scene (Marty playing "Johnny B. Goode"), to the call-back-ridden (in a good way) second instalment (MARGINALLY, by a hair's breadth, the weakest of the franchise) to the action packed, western-style third film that contains the brilliant ending, the entire series is an absolute joy every time.


#42: Bruce Almighty (Tom Shadyac, 2003)

http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/movies/brucealmighty/still_brucealmighty1.jpg

Perhaps the first real "guilty pleasure" of my list. :D This is the first film I really, truly fell in love with 8 years ago at the age of 10, and it still cracks me up every time. Carrey is wonderful as usual with solid support from Jennifer Aniston and the ever-present Morgan Freeman, and there are innumerable hilarious moments in which Jim makes full use of his physical and vocal comedic talents.

[HitchFan97]

Back to the Future, Kill Bill, Wall-E... :up:

[lundy1026]

LOVE BRUCE ALMIGHTY!! we are almost tied on it. it was my #43 and its your #42 :)

[Skepsis93]

Nothing to do, so here's my last one tonight. :p

#41: Kick-Ass (Matthew Vaughn, 2010)

http://www.comicbookmovie.com/images/uploads/alg_kick_ass.jpg

Now, I've never really been much of a fan of the superhero/comic-book genre. I've never really gotten the appeal of the likes of Batman, Spiderman, or The Incredible Hulk beyond cheap entertainment, but for some reason when the hero in question is useless, it becomes really, really appealing to me. Kick-Ass is great. Very funny, stylised, violent and real, as well as gloriously entertaining. The hallway scene goes down as one of my very favourites of recent years.


#40: Se7en (David Fincher, 1995)

http://www.virtual-history.com/movie/photo/06/large/06250.jpg

Grim and gory, a bone-chilling crime thriller set against a classic Fincher backdrop of concrete, grime and incessant rain. Subtle, emotional performances and a stunning finale set it apart from others in its genre. One of the greatest ever murder stories.


#39: Let the Right One In (Thomas Alfredson, 2008)

http://wemadethis.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451c2d869e201156f3d824e970c-800wi

A true masterpiece of foreign cinema, Let the Right One In toes a unique line between romance and horror. By never fully committing to one or the other, it is an uncomfortable watch in the very best way possible. The dark story is complimented superbly by the visuals of the gloomy, chilly Swedish town in which the film is set - it's vampires done right.

[kubrick]

Let the Right One In is such a great film, hands down best vampire movie ever in my opinion.

[lundy1026]

Deff +rep for kick ass MATTHEW VAUGHN:D

[Skepsis93]

Let the Right One In is such a great film, hands down best vampire movie ever in my opinion.

Agreed.

Deff +rep for kick ass MATTHEW VAUGHN:D

Thanks. :p

[kubrick]

Skepsis, what are your thoughts on Let Me In, the American remake? I think they butchered the ending and didn't explain Eli's situation enough.

[Skepsis93]

Skepsis, what are your thoughts on Let Me In, the American remake? I think they butchered the ending and didn't explain Eli's situation enough.

I can't bring myself to see it. I've read good and really bad reviews so I'm worried it might ruin the original, although I'm sure I'm being over dramatic.

[kubrick]

I can't bring myself to see it. I've read good and really bad reviews so I'm worried it might ruin the original, although I'm sure I'm being over dramatic.
I myself was extremely excited when it came out. But I left disappointed. It almost ruined the ending for me. I wish I could go back and unsee it. It's not that it was bad, it's that I saw Let the Right One In first. You aren't being dramatic, you're being smart in a way.

[filmgirlinterrupted]

Major + rep for Se7en and Let The Right One In

[HitchFan97]

I have got to see Se7en.

[gandalf26]

Kick Ass, Seven and Let the Right One in are all outstanding pics.

[Skepsis93]

#38: 12 Angry Men (Sidney Lumet, 1957)

http://kino1138.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/12-angry-men1.jpg

I'm sure most of you know by now how good 12 Angry Men is. Without 12 outstanding performances, the film would have fallen flat on its face but, thankfully, they were there and we have an engrossing drama that still holds up to this day.


#37: Hard Candy (David Slade, 2005)

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/film/candy460.jpg

The first appearance of one of my favourite actresses. Polarizing as this film is, it never ceases to go to every possible extreme and I love it for that. Page and Wilson's performances drive the backwards cat-and-mouse story with the hunted becoming the hunter in a compelling, thrilling and controversial fashion.


#36: School of Rock (Richard Linklater, 2003)

http://data.whicdn.com/images/14360741/school-of-rock-ecfk99bx7-141593-530-298_large.jpg

Another one probably considered a guilty pleasure but I don't feel too guilty at all, to be honest. School of Rock is buckets of fun with a hilarious central turn from Jack Black (his best performance), great support from the kids and an awesome soundtrack.

[Skepsis93]

I have got to Se7en.

You've got to see it? :p

[Skepsis93]

#35: Little Miss Sunshine (Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris, 2006)

http://aprimiao.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/Little%20Miss%20Sunshine%2012.jpg

Funny, moving, quirky and most importantly a highly satisfying f**k you to the disgusting world of kids beauty pageants. Everyone gives excellent performances: Alan Arkin fully deserved his Oscar, Abigail Breslin is incredible as Olive and Paul Dano is brilliant despite not having any lines for a large chunk of the film.


#34: Pan's Labyrinth (Guillermo del Toro, 2006)

http://www.moviemobsters.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/pan-2.jpg

A violent fantasy aimed at an adult audience, Pan's Labyrinth takes you and plants you firmly into a dark and twisted world. Extremely tense, beautifully acted and with some shocking scenes, it's up there with the very best the Fantasy genre has to offer.


#33: Fight Club (David Fincher, 1999)

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_E3bVtmzprM/TfTBW1oa6WI/AAAAAAAAAls/kmvfgCgdFZc/s1600/fightclub2.jpg

Edward Norton and Brad Pitt are both at their very best in Fight Club and it's these turns and the awesome visuals that make this one stand out for me. The twist is unexpected and great, and I'm sure I don't need to explain to you lot how great it is.

[HitchFan97]

You've got to see it? :p

Haha yeah I just realized what I wrote... edited!

[Skepsis93]

Alot of good stuff here on your list!

Thank you, I think so too. ;)

[nebbit]

Nice start :yup:

[filmgirlinterrupted]

Fight Club? YES.
Pan's Labyrinth? YES.


Little Miss Sunshine? EHH.

Still, + rep for you :D

[kubrick]

Great photo choice for Pan's Labyrinth. Such a great film.

[sreenathpktr]

School of Rock is in my list too....Keep them coming...:)

[Skepsis93]

Nice start :yup:

Thanks nebb. :)

Fight Club? YES.
Pan's Labyrinth? YES.


Little Miss Sunshine? EHH.

Still, + rep for you :D

Ah, not a fan? Those quirky indie comedies are always polarizing.

Great photo choice for Pan's Labyrinth. Such a great film.

Thanks. It's awesome and I love that shot too. :D

School of Rock is in my list too....Keep them coming...:)

Will do.

[Skepsis93]

#32: Finding Nemo (Andrew Stanton & Lee Unkrich, 2003)

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNGod6pSoGM/Tcd31301QpI/AAAAAAAALJU/OFm8bkTmtrg/s400/finding-nemo-2.jpg

Pixar's best film. Technically, magnificent with some of the finest animation I've ever seen. Creatively, wonderful with an original story pulled off with skill, style and humor.


#31: Forrest Gump (Robert Zemeckis, 1994)

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2c0Yk0fvm2Y/TiBjGLUeVEI/AAAAAAAACeI/QjVuhDRN2Sw/s1600/imgforrest%2Bgump4.jpg

A subdued yet epic rollercoaster of a film, taking us through a lifetime of one amazing man, played so perfectly by Tom Hanks. Clever, funny and touching - a remarkable piece of cinema.


#30: Pulp Fiction (Quentin Tarantino, 1994)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/0b/PulpFictionTwist.jpg

Supremely entertaining, edgy, violent. Tarantino's career-defining film. Jackson and Travolta's best work in my opinion.

[nebbit]

More good choices :yup:

[Miss Vicky]

Great choices. Love all three.

[HitchFan97]

The last 3 are all great, especially Forrest Gump and Pulp Fiction :)

[Skepsis93]

Glad you all like them. :)

[sreenathpktr]

Forrest Gump and Pulp Fiction....These movies can be found in most of the list...They are in my list too...

[Skepsis93]

#29: Mulholland Drive (David Lynch, 2001)

http://missprescottpresents.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/naomi_mulholland-drive.jpg

Psychological Thriller, Surrealist Drama, Mystery, whatever you want to call it: Mulholland Drive is incredibly unnerving in the best way possible. The film embodies a chilling atmosphere from start to finish. That ever-present sense of foreboding, unexplainable as it is, makes the experience highly unsettling and the performances of Naomi Watts and Laura Harring in the centre of this nightmare compliment it on every level.


#28: Donnie Darko (Richard Kelly, 2001)

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lkynclPaQc1qbkwh4.jpg

A true cult classic, Donnie Darko is just an amazing experience. It's a bona fide blend of genres, with elements of dark comedy, family drama with, of course, an intense, highly creepy, mind-bending mystery at the forefront. Gyllenhaal's performance is one of incredible diversity, showing an entire spectrum of emotions comprised at various times of simple teen angst, to deep psychological trauma.


#27: An American Crime (Tommy O'Haver, 2007)

http://www.swotti.com/tmp/swotti/cacheYW4GYW1LCMLJYW4GY3JPBWU=/imgan%20american%20crime4.jpg

A film I think is absolutely incredible that I have no desire to ever see again. The combination of the true story, dramatised from a court case from 1950s Indiana (not that it needed much dramatising), the taut and deeply emotional performances of Ellen Page and Catherine Keener, and the heartbreaking fashion in which the ending is told hit me on a level on which I swear I've never been hit before or since. It's a monstrously difficult watch, but an essential one.

[Skepsis93]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone else seen An American Crime? It was never out in cinemas, which I think is a crime unto itself. Don't let that put you off.

[TylerDurden99]

I've heard about it, although from a friend who assured it's not worth watching. I'm intrigued to check it out myself, now that I'm hearing some praise for it.

Love Mulholland Drive & Donnie Darko. Two mind-bending dramas, that I've watched multiple times and still feel the same way I did the first time I saw them.

[lundy1026]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone else seen An American Crime? It was never out in cinemas, which I think is a crime unto itself. Don't let that put you off.

I have not, but I will watch it tonight ( Instead of Dark Knight ).

[Skepsis93]

I have not, but I will watch it tonight ( Instead of Dark Knight ).

Good call. :p

[Skepsis93]

#26: The Social Network (David Fincher, 2010)

http://filmhash.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/the-social-network-movie-3_1.jpg

A departure from Fincher's usual style, The Social Network is nevertheless a work of genius acting, writing and direction. The tone and pacing are both exceptional. What pushes it greatness for me though is its relevance to my own generation.


#25: The Shawshank Redemption (Frank Darabont, 1994)

http://i2.listal.com/image/266791/600full-the-shawshank-redemption-screenshot.jpg

I'm not sure this one needs too much explaining. Wonderfully shot and acted, moving, clever and truly inspirational.


#24: The Lion King (Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff, 1994)

http://www.virginmedia.com/images/the-lion-king-gal-431.jpg

The defining film of my childhood and one that will stick with me for many, many years. Holds up today with charming animation, characters and a classic Disney story. Fun fact: The stampede scene took Disney almost 3 years to animate.

[HitchFan97]

The Social Network is ranked EXACTLY the same on my current list (the one here is outdated). +Rep

[sreenathpktr]

"Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies."-Shawshank Redemption
My favorite Quote
:up: for the selection...

[honeykid]

"Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies."-Shawshank Redemption
My favorite Quote

Except that hope is not a good thing. It can be, but on the whole, hope is the worst of all the evils to spring from Pandora's box.

[Skepsis93]

Except that hope is not a good thing. It can be, but on the whole, hope is the worst of all the evils to spring from Pandora's box.

That's ever so cynical honeykid. Hope can help get one through even the most dire of situations. If there's no hope, why don't we all just kill ourselves now? ;)

[Pyro Tramp]

I've heard about it, although from a friend who assured it's not worth watching. I'm intrigued to check it out myself, now that I'm hearing some praise for it.

Love Mulholland Drive & Donnie Darko. Two mind-bending dramas, that I've watched multiple times and still feel the same way I did the first time I saw them.

In regard to Mulholland Dr, I don't understand how anyone can watch it multiple times and continually have the first same experience of absolute confusion and bewilderment from being sidef*cked. Each viewing slowly unravels layers and it sort of becomes more and more cohesive to the point you think you begin to understand but probably don't. What i'm trying to say, each time I watch I feel slightly more enlightened and less confused.

[honeykid]

That's ever so cynical honeykid. Hope can help get one through even the most dire of situations.
It can. It can also (and more often, IMO) keep people in situations they'd be much better off out of.

If there's no hope, why don't we all just kill ourselves now? ;)
Absolutely. I know why I'm still here. Do you? :)

[sreenathpktr]

Except that hope is not a good thing. It can be, but on the whole, hope is the worst of all the evils to spring from Pandora's box.
You are not Optimist....right?;)

[LuDiNaToR]

great list. Not a fan of The Social Network tho.

[Skepsis93]

I know why I'm still here. Do you? :)

Yeah. Hope. ;)

[Skepsis93]

#23: Being John Malkovich (Spike Jonze, 1999)

http://arch.ttu.edu/w/images/2/27/Being_john_malkovich-1.jpg

One of the weirdest pieces of cinema I've ever seen. In terms of originality, it's unrivalled and Kaufman's script, the surreal atmosphere as a result of Jonze's direction amongst other things, and the performances of Cusack, Keener, Diaz and Malkovich come together to create a remarkably daring and innovative film.


#22: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (Peter Jackson, 2003)

http://whatculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/return-of-the-king-lord-of-the-rings.png

List spoiler: This is my favourite of the LotR trilogy. As much as I love the previous two this one to me is just more epic, more engrossing, and of course has the wonderful ending. Jackson wraps up his masterpiece in perfect fashion.


#21: Hesher (Spencer Susser, 2011)

http://cdn.screenrant.com/wp-content/uploads/Hesher-Reviews.jpg

I know some of you are probably a little dumbfounded by this pick, but I really did like it that much. It really hit me on a gut level, something I think all great movies should do. An excerpt from my review:

"Hesher is everything I want indie films to be. Equal parts funny, melancholy and dramatic, it serves up a challenging and thought-provoking experience, whilst often throwing in moments of absolute hilarity. It is a fantastic mix of comedy and drama. Above all though it is edgy and takes full advantage of being free from the censorship of a big budget and a big studio. Like similar indie productions, it is aimed at a specific audience and, to that group of people, is all the better for it."

[filmgirlinterrupted]

My Netflix copy of "Hesher" is sitting on my PS3, I'll be checking it out very soon!

[gandalf26]

Rep for "Being John Malcovich".

Perhaps the biggest wtf movie ever.

A truly unique experience.

[sreenathpktr]

I love all the films you included in the list till now...It's a good list:yup:.

[Skepsis93]

#20: 2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick, 1968)

http://image.guardian.co.uk/sys-images/Arts/Arts_/Pictures/2008/03/19/2001_460.jpg

2001 isn't a "movie" to me. To enjoy it, you really need to think of it as a piece of art. Kubrick's masterful use of ultra slow pacing, music and the lack of dialogue make it suspenseful and awe-inspiring in equal measure. Another example of a risk creating a polarizing piece of cinema that it's lovers truly love, and it's haters do so with a vengeance, with very little in between.


#19: Annie Hall (Woody Allen, 1977)

http://thestandardedition.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/annie_hall_3.jpg

"Just about everyone's favorite Woody Allen movie." Indeed, as a director, actor and writer Allen is at his razor-sharp best in Annie Hall. A coupling of witty one-liners and set pieces and a genuinely funny storyline with a good dose of drama thrown in as well, which, whilst never being Allen's strongest suit, works incredibly well here. A wonderful look into the lives of two not-so-normal New Yorkers and their ultimately doomed relationship.

[Tyler1]

Finally something i like. :up:

[Skepsis93]

Finally something i like. :up:

Lol, fair enough. :p

[HitchFan97]

HUGE rep for 2001.

[sreenathpktr]

Wow...Annie Hall...It's in my top 10..:)

[Skepsis93]

#18: Lars and the Real Girl (Craig Gillespie, 2007)

http://www.thinkchristian.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/lars-and-the-real-girl-upcoming-movies-581795_500_332.jpg

From my review:

Perhaps the most amazing thing about it is that it manages this feat all on a premise that on first hearing, sounds 100% ridiculous. One reviewer before me remarked that, "it's nothing less than a miracle that [the filmmakers] have been able to make such an endearing, intelligent and tender comedy from a premise that, in other hands, might sustain a five-minute sketch on TV". To me, this is completely on the nose and indeed nothing short of a miracle.

In a role seemingly built for him, Ryan Gosling once again impresses as the cripplingly shy but incredibly kindly Lars, who develops a unique relationship with a doll, "Bianca", whom he orders off the internet. As his family and the inhabitants of his small town get to grips with his delusion, we see a story unfold that is a tribute to human kindness, tolerance and a willingness to sacrifice to help another - positive attributes seemingly lacking both in modern film and society at large. But I honestly felt as if I was watching something real here.


#17: Pleasantville (Gary Ross, 1998)

http://ncowie.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/pleasantville.jpg

Possibly the most fun ever dedicated to a screen. Well acted from Tobey Maguire and Reese Witherspoon in the lead roles right down to smaller players, the cinematography effortlessly capturing the 1950's feel down to a tee, the quirky set pieces and ingenious use of selective colour really bringing the film together to create one near-perfect piece of entertainment.

[Tyler1]

i love pleasantville.

[filmgirlinterrupted]

Both of those are great! :up:

[honeykid]

Pleasantville's great and "Lars" is one of those films I look forward to watching when the opportunity presents itself.

[sreenathpktr]

i love pleasantville.
I too

[Skepsis93]

Pleasantville's great and "Lars" is one of those films I look forward to watching when the opportunity presents itself.

Make it happen! :p

[Skepsis93]

#16: The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (Andrew Dominik, 2007)

http://www.picknmixflix.com/a/images/assassination.jpg

Subtle, slow-moving yet utterly engrossing, The Assassination of Jesse James is a masterful modern western featuring, in my opinion, one of the greatest supporting performances of the last decade - Casey Affleck's Robert Ford - as well as stellar performances from the rest of the cast including Pitt, Sam Rockwell, Paul Schneider and Jeremy Renner. Enrapturing from every angle - historically and aesthetically as well as being supremely entertaining.

#15: Amelie (Jean-Pierre Jeunet, 2001)

http://www.criticplanet.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/amelie-2001.jpg

A perfectly heart-warming, life affirming journey through a classic romance, punctuated by moments of genuine individuality. The quaint French setting, unique characters and stunningly bold and beautiful cinematography make Amelie an absolute must-see.

[honeykid]

Two good choices, Skepsis. I've only seen TAOJJBTCRF once, but I thought it looked beautiful and it, just about, kept my attention for the duration. Amelie is just a wonderful film.

[Skepsis93]

The tie in this entry is not because I couldn't choose between the two movies. After watching a currently unnamed, previously unaccounted for film recently, I decided I wanted it to go above these three in the rankings. Purely logistical decision. So essentially it's now a top 51.

#14: 500 Days of Summer (Marc Webb, 2009)

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/dvd/fox/500_days_of_summer/500_4L.jpg

A romantic comedy at heart, but done in such a unique way it's hard to call it that. Quirky, funny, warm and emotional, a real surprise - don't be put off by first impressions.


Lost In Translation (Sofia Coppola, 2003)

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ryoWeu_9gAE/Thh1QNx23WI/AAAAAAAABBI/0yLqDg3b5ww/s1600/lost-in-translation-3.jpg

One of the most subtly beautiful films I have ever seen. A unique atmosphere, created with combination of the entrancing Japanese setting, the performances of the two leads and the extraordinary script. It's not an eventful movie - what you get instead is the opportunity to share a part of the genuine and essential relationship the characters experience.


#13: Black Swan (Darren Aronofsky, 2010)

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01825/B_black-swan_1825280c.jpg

A supreme thriller with supreme performances. Masterful editing and cinematography put the cherry on top, with Natalie Portman deservedly taking home the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award, but for my money, it was the best film of last year.

[MrPink]

#13: Black Swan (Darren Aronofsky, 2010)

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01825/B_black-swan_1825280c.jpg

A supreme thriller with supreme performances. Masterful editing and cinematography put the cherry on top, with Natalie Portman deservedly taking home the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award, but for my money, it was the best film of last year.

:down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::dow n::down::down::down::down:
:sick:

[Skepsis93]

:down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::down::dow n::down::down::down::down:
:sick:

That's ok, no need to elaborate.

[Tyler1]

Black Swan is fantastic! Before that i thought how on earth am i going to like a film about ballet? But then, i was totally blown away by it! And yes, it's definitely better than that Inception (which was horrible).

[Skepsis93]

Black Swan is fantastic! Before that i thought how on earth am i going to like a film about ballet? But then, i was totally blown away by it! And yes, it's definitely better than that Inception (which was horrible).

It's not really about ballet, in a literal sense, is it? The dancing is more of a vehicle for the important stuff.

[Tyler1]

Ok. But without the horror element, maybe not so... lol

[Tyler1]

Oh, and Black Swan is my favourite Aronofsky film. :p(Ive seen The Fountain, Requiem, pi )

[nebbit]

Really liking your list :yup:

[Skepsis93]

Thanks Nebbit! Any particular favorites? I'd love to hear.

[under0ath777]

#14: 500 Days of Summer (Marc Webb, 2009)
Lost In Translation (Sofia Coppola, 2003)
#13: Black Swan (Darren Aronofsky, 2010)
.

Great choices. I love this movies too!

[Nausicaä]

Niceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

#50: Run Lola Run (Tom Tykwer, 1998)
#46: Wall-E (Andrew Stanton, 2008)
#45: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (Quentin Tarantino, 2003)
#41: Kick-Ass (Matthew Vaughn, 2010)
#40: Se7en (David Fincher, 1995)
#39: Let the Right One In (Thomas Alfredson, 2008)
#35: Little Miss Sunshine (Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris, 2006)
#34: Pan's Labyrinth (Guillermo del Toro, 2006)
#33: Fight Club (David Fincher, 1999)
#32: Finding Nemo (Andrew Stanton & Lee Unkrich, 2003)
#30: Pulp Fiction (Quentin Tarantino, 1994)
#28: Donnie Darko (Richard Kelly, 2001)
#23: Being John Malkovich (Spike Jonze, 1999)
#20: 2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick, 1968)
#19: Annie Hall (Woody Allen, 1977)
#15: Amelie (Jean-Pierre Jeunet, 2001)
#14: 500 Days of Summer (Marc Webb, 2009)
Lost In Translation (Sofia Coppola, 2003)
#13: Black Swan (Darren Aronofsky, 2010)

^ Adore all the above, very nice choices. The ones in red I especially, especially like.

:)

[Skepsis93]

Been a while, sorry guys! Very busy with Uni stuff - haven't given up though, will have more up soon.

[Deadite]

You have good taste in movies, Skep. :)

[Skepsis93]

You have good taste in movies, Skep. :)

I'm glad you think so. :)

[Deadite]

I'm glad you think so. :)

Now you're just creeping me out. :)

[Skepsis93]

Now you're just creeping me out. :)

I'M creeping YOU out? :)

:p

[Deadite]

I'M creeping YOU out? :)

:p

:):):)

They told me you would say that.

[JayDee]

Hey Skepsis. Not been around for a while but great to see you've given one of these lists a shot. Considering you seemed to love my list so much I guess it's no suprise that I am loving your list! :D I like/love the large majority and think we actually have at least 15 films in common that made our lists.

Amongst others I love - Run Lola Run, Man on the Moon, Groundhog Day, Wall-e, Back to the Future, Bruce Almighty (forgot this one for consideration on my list), 12 Angry Men, School of Rock, Little Miss Sunshine, Pan's Labyrinth, Finding Nemo, Forrest Gump, Pulp Fiction, Donnie Darko, Shawshank Redemption, Lion King, Being John Malkovich, Return of the King, Lars and the Real Girl (proud of myself for this one being on your list! :D), Pleasantville, Amelie, 500 Days of Summer

Not seen Hesher but really fancy it. Really look forward to seeing the rest of the list

[Skepsis93]

:):):)

They told me you would say that.

Is "they" the guy in your avatar? Does he have similarly scary-looking friends that say stuff no-one else can hear but you?

:)

[Skepsis93]

Hey Skepsis. Not been around for a while but great to see you've given one of these lists a shot. Considering you seemed to love my list so much I guess it's no suprise that I am loving your list! :D I like/love the large majority and think we actually have at least 15 films in common that made our lists.

Amongst others I love - Run Lola Run, Man on the Moon, Groundhog Day, Wall-e, Back to the Future, Bruce Almighty (forgot this one for consideration on my list), 12 Angry Men, School of Rock, Little Miss Sunshine, Pan's Labyrinth, Finding Nemo, Forrest Gump, Pulp Fiction, Donnie Darko, Shawshank Redemption, Lion King, Being John Malkovich, Return of the King, Lars and the Real Girl (proud of myself for this one being on your list! :D), Pleasantville, Amelie, 500 Days of Summer

Not seen Hesher but really fancy it. Really look forward to seeing the rest of the list

Thanks man. I was wondering when you'd turn up. :p

[Skepsis93]

#11: Leon: The Professional (Luc Besson, 1994)

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c3Ab_3gRAo0/TExep01CdEI/AAAAAAAAAlI/yQnBiwQEvNA/s1600/leon.jpg

A little relief for those feeling a little feminine after the previous entry. Leon rocks, period. Jean Reno gives the performance of his career, Natalie Portman is introduced to mass audiences in stunning fashion and Gary Oldman is spot on, as usual. A thinking man's action movie - brilliantly made in every respect.

[honeykid]

Love Leon. :up:

[Deadite]

Is "they" the guy in your avatar? Does he have similarly scary-looking friends that say stuff no-one else can hear but you?

:)

:yup:

[JayDee]

An interesting double bill there! :D

I adore Leon. :yup: Notebook is a bit of a surprise but certainly won't be giving you grief about it. I saw it a few years ago and for the kind of movie it is I'd say it's very good

[Skepsis93]

To any of you wondering why my list suddenly came to a standstill (seriously doubt that's any of you) I had intended to finish my list off BEFORE work started to pile up and life started to get in the way, but it looks like I missed that deadline, so I'm not gonna be able to wrap it up the way I wanted to. I am a completionist by nature, however, so I will bring it to some sort of conclusion. In the gaps between my entries a few additions have been made, so I'll list those then fire off a quick top ten so the list at least has some semblance of completion.

#13: Magnolia (Paul Thomas Anderson, 1999)
#17: It's a Wonderful Life (Frank Capra, 1947)
#24: Inglorious Basterds (Quentin Tarantino, 2009)

and the top 10 (complete anti-climax, I know. Sorry!)

#10: Into the Wild
Sean Penn, 2007
Emile Hirsch, Hal Holbrook & Catherine Keener

#9: The Truman Show
Peter Weir, 1998
Jim Carrey, Laura Linney & Ed Harris

#8: The Graduate
Mike Nichols, 1967
Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft & Katharine Ross

#7: There Will Be Blood
Paul Thomas Anderson, 2007
Daniel Day-Lewis, Paul Dano & Ciarán Hinds

#6: Battle Royale
Kinji Fukasaku, 2000
Tatsuya Fujiwara, Aki Maeda & Tarô Yamamoto

#5: Almost Famous
Cameron Crowe, 2000
Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson & Billy Crudup

#4: Juno
Jason Reitman, 2007
Ellen Page, Michael Cera & Jennifer Garner

#3: American Beauty
Sam Mendes, 1999
Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening & Thora Birch

#2: SUPER
James Gunn, 2010
Rainn Wilson, Ellen Page & Kevin Bacon

#1: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Michel Gondry, 2004
Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet & Tom Wilkinson

I hate that it's pure cold fact and I don't have time to write down a bunch of thoughts like with the previous entries. But that's what you get with bad timing. I hope you enjoyed my list anyway.

[nebbit]

At least you finished it :yup:

[Skepsis93]

At least you finished it :yup:

Thanks Nebbit. :)

[honeykid]

Well, you did it. :)

For me, it started well, really well actually and then tailed off, before a short rally and a steep decline into meh. Still, you managed to get Battle Royale in there. :cool:

[Skepsis93]

Well, you did it. :)

For me, it started well, really well actually and then tailed off, before a short rally and a steep decline into meh. Still, you managed to get Battle Royale in there. :cool:

Not the way I would have liked to, but hey ho.

Yeah, I wasn't expecting a lot of people to like a lot of the list. I have strange taste. Glad you liked at least some of it. :D

[JayDee]

To any of you wondering why my list suddenly came to a standstill (seriously doubt that's any of you)

I was wondering! :) Even though I haven't been around a great deal whenever I was I was hoping you had finished off your list.

And well done for doing so! Even if it wasn't how you'd have liked to. Maybe one day you can come back and finish it in a style you'd like. Or in the future do another list.

Anyway of your top 10 I love Truman Show, Battle Royale, Juno, American Beauty and Eternal Sunshine. :thumbs_up: Finally got round to seeing Almost Famous recently and while I didn't love it still found it enjoyable. Not got round to seeing the others yet.