The countdown to the (obvious) #1 movie continues as today I unveil my 7th favorite movie of all-time. You've already seen it on Luke's list. Now it's my turn to give this great, award-winning movie its due on my list.
7. The Departed (2006) Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Mark Wahlberg Directed By Martin Scorcese
When you gather the amount of star power this movie has, one of the greatest directors ever, and a screenplay that moves, deceives, and captivates a viewer like this one does, you're bound to have a movie that is considered one of the best ever. This movie has all that and more.
I don't know what made me want to see this movie. In fact, couldn't even tell you when I saw it. But what I do remember saying after watching it was "Damn". That's it. Just one word. I didn't mean it in a bad way. In fact, I meant it in a couple of ways. First, by the ending that I will not spoil in case you haven't seen the movie. And secondly, because I didn't really want the movie to end.
From the start, you know you're in for something good. You're in for a movie lathered in Boston accents and tough-talking cops. There will be plenty of cursing and plenty of bad behavior, legal and illegal. You know just by the cast that you're in for great acting performances and thanks to a guy like Martin Scorcese, you also know you're gonna have a well-made movie. But it's the story and how it unfolds that really sets this movie apart.
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Billy Costigan, an intelligent and overall good kid who comes from a family of criminals. He's an outlier no doubt, and becomes even more of one when he decides he wants to be a cop. So after excelling in the training academy, he applies for a job with the Massachusetts State Police but because of his background, they pretty much have no choice but to make him an undercover cop who will work on the force's big fight against organized crime, spear-headed by mob boss Frank Costello, played by Jack Nicholson. In other words, get in tight with him and help the police take him down.
On the flip side, you have Matt Damon's character Colin Sullivan, who also trains in the Academy and is assigned to the Special Investigations Unit. The unit is solely focused on taking down Costello. Thing is Colin has known Costello since he was a kid and entered the criminal underground at a young age, making him a mole. So what you have in essence is two undercover cops working for two different operations. It makes for great scene after great scene as each try to outwit the other.
The movie takes lots of twists and turns, all leading up to its amazing ending, which is easily one of the best endings I've seen in a movie. You don't see it coming and more importantly, it's a very satisfying ending. It leaves no cliffhanger and does the movie justice.
I have to make it a point to talk about the acting, which is absolutely amazing. Damon, DiCaprio, and Nicholson are great. They are solid actors in every movie they are in and they do not disappoint here as well. They bring the perfect intensity to every scene and just ooze of the Boston swagger needed for the roles they are given. Supporting actors like Alec Baldwin, Martin Sheen, Anthony Anderson (yes, even him) and Vera Farmiga do a nice job as well, sometimes providing comic relief or adding some levity to certain situations.
But the standout performance in my mind in the movie is Mark Wahlberg. I've never been a Wahlberg fan when it comes to his acting. As a person, he comes off as a nice guy. And clearly as a producer, he is outstanding. He has hit after hit on HBO these days. But his acting has always left something to be desired in my mind. This role single-handedly changed my mind though about this acting ability. Maybe it was the fact that this role was perfect for him but whatever it was, he killed this part. Much like Christoph Waltz in "Inglorious Basterds", I can't imagine this movie without Wahlberg's cocky, tough-talking, character Dignam.
This movie went on to win 4 Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, a well-deserved win for Scorcese, who had been nominated 6 other times. This movie in my mind has no flaws. Not its length, not its music ("I'm Shipping Up To Boston" = perfect), not its structure, not its cast, and not its ending. Nothing. It is a great movie and one I find myself watching anytime it's on TV and not blinking until it's over. If you like a lot of action, suspense, drama, and even some comedy, here's a movie to see. Now.
TRAILER
FUN FACTS
This is the movie with the most uses of the word "fuck" and its derivatives (237) to win the Best Picture Oscar.
Mark Wahlberg based his performance on the police officers who'd arrested him about two dozen times in his youth, and the reactions of his parents who had to come bail him out with their grocery money.
Ray Liotta was the original choice for the role of Dignam but had to reluctantly decline due to other commitments. Denis Leary was offered the role of Dignam in this film, but turned it down due to scheduling conflicts with his television show, Rescue Me.
MEMORABLE QUOTES
Oliver Queenan: Congratulations on passing the detectives' exam, and welcome to the Special Investigation Unit. Dignam: Whoop-de-fuckin'-do.
Billy Costigan: You didn't come here to talk, alright. You came here to get arrested!
Billy Costigan: Look at it this way: You're a black guy in Boston. You don't need any help from me to be completely fucked.
Oliver Queenan: You're a worker. You rise fast. Dignam: Like a 12-year-old's dick.
That's all for #7. On to movie #6
TEASE for movie #6: A comedic actor goes serious in this 1990's movie, earning him a Golden Globe.
After a week off to refresh the batteries, I am back to blogging and revealing my #8 and # 7 movies. I will still do them in separate posts even though I will reveal them in the same week. I left you with the tease that the #8 movie was the only one added to my top ten since I created the same list back in 2008. Well, I hope you've got your guesses in because time has run out.
#8 The Hangover (2009) Starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha Directed by Todd Phillips
So you wanna have a bachelor party? What better place to go than Vegas! But what if it was so crazy that you literally couldn't remember one thing from the previous night? And there's your simple but genius premise behind one of the funniest movies I've ever seen.
When I saw the promos for this movie, I was intrigued but with my hate for how much movies cost these days, wasn't really rushing to the theater to see it. That is, until literally every one of my friends asked me "Have you seen The Hangover?" I said no and they all told me to immediately go see it. After about 15-20 people saying this in a span of about a week, I scrounged up enough coins and saw it. And well, needless to say, I was not disappointed.
There are lots of reasons to not like, but love this movie. First off is the way it unfolds. I've said this tons of time throughout this countdown but I am a big fan of movies that don't necessarily go in order OR take place in a short time frame. This movie does both. The movie is only over a span of 2 days and it starts near the end. Genius. This way, we already know where the movie is going but by no means do we know how it got there. And the uncovering of the facts is what makes this movie so hilarious.
Now if you're going to make a movie like this, it can't be predictable. If so, it wouldn't be funny. Director Todd Phillips and the writers had to think of just about any drunk escapade they have been on and multiply it by 100. If it seemed too far, then it probably wasn't for this movie. Among the things in their hotel room when they wake up are a baby, a chicken, a tiger, stolen statues, burned chairs, and more. Yeah, try connecting those dots.
From there things only get better as they try to piece their night together. With every twist and turn comes another hilarious discovery. Whether it be their trip to the hospital, the chapel, Mike Tyson's house or stealing the cop car, you can't help but laugh at how this night unfolded. Yes, it's extreme but that is what makes it so great. These 4 guys (who were drugged as we later find out) did Vegas right, which is 100%. What happened in Vegas was going to stay there, just as any good bachelor party should be.
I can point out numerous scenes too that literally have you laugh out loud. Things like "Black Doug", Mike Tyson singing "In The Air Tonight", the guys getting tased to avoid jail time, and Mr. Chow jumping out of the trunk of their car completely naked. Right when you think things may be getting back to normal, the movie find another way to make you crack up. That's the mark of a great comedy. Never let up with the jokes. Sometimes it was great one-liners. Other times, it was physical comedy. It didn't matter. The funny never stopped...even in the stuff that didn't make the movie.
But what I think really puts this movie over the top is the relationship between the 3 guys. Going into the movie, this isn't your typical buddy comedy. For one thing, Alan is not really friends with either Stu or Phil. He's just the socially-challenged brother of the bride. But no doubt, Alan becomes the star of this movie. Don't get me wrong. This movie needs Bradley Cooper's Phil as the confident and cool one who keeps them on the right track despite not knowing what that track is. It also needs Ed Helms' Stu, very intelligent and practical but also one to freak out very easily in weird situations. Oh and his great singing voice.
But again, the star of this movie is Zach Galifianakis' Alan character. I had never even heard of Galifianakis before this movie so I had no idea what kind of comedy style he had. I'm glad I didn't though because I think that made the movie that much better for me. You could not have a better person play this character. Someone who means well but doesn't know much. Someone who lacks common sense and is just not normal. Someone who is so lovable that is hard to hate. Throughout the movie, Alan not only has the best lines, but the best scenes in general. Safe to say without his comedy in this movie, it doesn't crack the top 10.
But it's not just me who loves this movie. It is the highest-grossing R-rated comedy of all-time (the sequel is second on that list). It also won the Golden Globe for Best Picture - Comedy or Musical in 2009, a shocking result considering movies like this one don;t normally even get nominated. But even 65-70 old men and women could understand the comedic genius in this film. The backdrop of Vegas combined with a bachelor party and a group of drugged guys who can do no right makes for a crazy adventure when written and acted well. And that's exactly what happened here.
FUN FACTS
Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis's songs ("Stu's Song" and "Three Best Friends", respectively) were improvised.
No effects or prosthetics were created for Stu's missing tooth. Actor Ed Helms never had an adult incisor grow, and his fake incisor was taken out for the parts of filming where Stu's tooth is missing.
91 movies have been revealed. 9 more to go. As I've said before, a lot of the movies I have picked are not Oscar winners or even critically acclaimed. This movie though, #9 on my list, is exactly that. A movie that makes you think and a movie that may even make you a better person with each and every watch.
9. Crash (2004) Starring Brendan Fraser, Sandra Bullock, Don Cheadle, Jennifer Esposito, Larenz Tate, Ludacris, Thandie Newton, Terence Howard, Ryan Phillippe, Matt Dillon, Michael Pena, Bahar Soomekh, Shaun Toub, Loretta Devine Directed by Paul Haggis
The tagline to this amazing movie is "Moving at the speed of life, we are bound to collide with each other." Think about that for a little. The tagline is not referring to you and me. No, the "we" there is referring to us as a society. A society that is full of people of different races, classes, education levels, religions, backgrounds, and more. No matter how hard we may try, if we just truly live our lives, we are bound to run into someone who is not like us. For most of us, that's no big deal. But for lots of others, it brings about stereotypes, prejudices, and thoughts that have no place in a welcome and accepting society. "Crash" looks at those people and how it impacts our everyday lives.
Trying to explain this plot even in summary is hard to do if you haven't seen the movie. The best way to do it is to write that this is a movie about a dozen characters who stories/lives inter-weave over a span of 36 hours. Many of the encounters are not pleasant, as all of the characters seem to have preconceived notions about another character, and mainly due to their race. Opinions change as the movie goes on but only after events that keep this story moving and connect these people in ways they never thought they would be connected.
I can point to lots of reasons why this movie is one of my favorites. The first of which is its exploration into racism. Besides some cupcake classes I took in college, the classes I enjoyed most outside of my major were my two sociology classes. I am fascinated in why people do the things they do and how people become who they are. Whether it be because of their background or because of recent events, it's just an interest of mine. Of course, it's not my business but for me, learning how people got to where they are in their lives and how they operate is a way for me to become a more well-rounded person.
So when this movie discusses racism, it caught my attention immediately. And it's not just Black and White. Not, this movie show interactions between Hispanics, Asians, and Iranians along with Blacks and Whites. In every case when someone from one race sees the other, stereotypes are mentioned. One race feels threatened by the other even though there is nothing to be threatened by. Stereotypes are broken by some of the race but then reinforced by other in the same race. It's truly remarkable how this movie is so careful to not dial in on just one race but at the same time, not hold anything back in how people perceive others this day and age. Youtube Clip
But it's more than the fact they we explore racism. It's the amazing screenplay written by Paul Haggis (who wrote "Million Dollar Baby" as well). Despite having over a dozen "main" characters, you get to know each and every one of them so well that you never feel like any are racist but instead creatures of habit because of the way they have lived or live now.
Take for instance Matt Dillon's character. An LAPD cop that has been on the job for 20 years. On the surface, he is incredibly rough and what he does at a traffic stop near the beginning of the movie is downright wrong. But later, you see a different dimension of him as he takes care of his sick Dad, who has a bladder problem that keeps Dillon up all night. When he asks for help, he is denied by the HMO simply because his Dad does not qualify. The stress this puts on him causes him to grow angry and lash out. I could go on but the scene is too powerful to just put into words. Instead, just watch it. Matt Dillon Scene
You see, we live in a very cynical world. A world that too often judges people way too quickly, you know, the book by its cover if you will. It's a terrible thing. Any many times, it is those judgements that start stereotypes and those stereotypes do not die. Just think. If people would give everyone a fair chance at the start, there wouldn't be all this hatred. Unfortunately, that is not the case in this world. Instead, we are stuck with a lot of people with a lot of prejudice hatred in their hearts simply because they are unwilling to accept change or accept others for being different than themselves.
This movie does do a great job of showing how people can reform themselves though. Granted this movie to an extreme but in many cases, that is what it takes for people to change their perceptions of others. It wasn't overnight White people began accepting Black people. It took people like Jackie Robinson to convince White people that Blacks aren't inferior. It took many others in many other races to do the same. Every day, even I have to deal with the constant racial jabs, whether harmless or harmful, simply because people are still somewhat uncomfortable being around someone that is different from them. Yeah, I dish it out at times as well but trust me, it gets old hearing it from the same people all the time. They mean nothing by it but ultimately, they just continue a stereotype or prejudice and that's sad.
For example, Ryan Phillippe's character is one many would relate to as someone who upholds the law and respects all people, no matter their race. But yet, there are demons inside him and prejudices/stereotypes in him that show up at a time when they did not need to. (SPOILER: If you have not seen this movie, don't watch this clip.)
"Crash" calls attention to this phenomenon through these characters and through these stories. You find yourself lost in this movie. Since it is only over a 36-hour period, you are not overwhelmed. Instead, you are kept in the loop of their intertwining stories and able to form your opinions of each character in their particular situation. And while each of them have something about them you should dislike or despise, there is a moment with each character in this movie where you feel sympathetic for them. You relate to their situation in some way. You've been there and felt that. That's the mark of a great movie.
It is hard for me to not put this movie higher honestly. If I could teach one college class, it would simply be a study of this movie. There are so many things to discuss that a whole quarter or semester on it may still not be enough. Because it's about more than just racism. It's about social classes, a broken healthcare system, a corrupt justice department, immigration, crime, and more. And thanks to the great performances by the actors in this movie (there's a reason I listed 14 in the "starring section"), you never feel like you're watching a movie. Instead, you are watching Los Angeles in the year 2004 and all its racist glory. You are watching people speak their minds and stand up for what they believe in. You are watching stereotypes be broken and reinforced. You are watching people change their perceptions and lives being changed.
There is still a lot of change that needs to be done in this world. Trust me, I would know. This movie tries to call attention to the problem. It's now up to each one of us to address it within ourselves and others.
TRAILER
Knowing this movie like I do, this trailer just makes me want to see the whole movie right now. Great stuff.
MEMORABLE QUOTES
Graham: It's the sense of touch. In any real city, you walk, you know? You brush past people, people bump into you. In L.A., nobody touches you. We're always behind this metal and glass. I think we miss that touch so much, that we crash into each other, just so we can feel something. Cameron: I mean, sooner or later, you gotta find out what it's really like to be black. Christine: Oh, fuck you man! Like you'd know! The closest you ever came to being black, Cameron, was watching "The Cosby Show". Cameron: Yeah, well, at least I wasn't watching it with the rest of the equestrian team.
Rick: Saddam? His name's Saddam? Oh, that's real good, Bruce. Yeah, I'm gonna pin a medal on an Iraqi named Saddam. Give yourself a raise, will you?
Officer Ryan: You think you know who you are? (Officer Hansen nods) Officer Ryan: You have no idea
I apologize for the lack of embedded clips but apparently "Crash" clips are being cracked down on in that regard. Whatever though. On to #8. Here's your tease:
Tease for #8 - The only one of my top ten movies to be released after I made my initial movie list in December 2008.
Here it is. The beginning of the end. The final ten movies in my top 100. It's not a shock that we're here so quickly. It is a shock though that more people besides Luke and I have actually took the time to go on this journey with me. So let me take this time to say thank you...and that you must have a lot of free time because I can think of 100+ better things to do with your time.
Anyways, my top 10 are movies that well, are legendary status. They are movies that are go-to in any situation. Bored, sad, angry, happy, drunk, sober, tired, etc... It truly doesn't matter. They are the movies that come on TV and until it's over, I'm not moving. The movies I quote from and in some cases, live from. The movies that I carry a little piece of each one of them with me since I've seen it. You won't find a ton of Oscars among the ten but you will find lots of laughs, tears, smiles, and thought-provoking messages. So with that said, let's start the top ten.
10. Cool Runnings (1993) Starring Leon, Doug E. Doug, John Candy Directed by Jon Turteltaub
I've stated again and again my disdain for sports movies. They are simply too cliche, corny and deviate from the truth too much when they don't need to. Well call me a hypocrite because while Cool Runnings does do a bit of all of those three things, it is one of my favorite movies and forever will be.
Some of why this movie is among my favorites is when I saw it. I was either 7 or 8 years old so I was highly impressionable. If a movie made me laugh a lot, I was going to like it. If a movie had great characters, I was going to like it. If had great music, good action, and a great ending, I waa going to like it. Well, this movie had all of that and much, much more. So much that I'm pretty sure this movie has actually gotten better with time.
Many of you have probably seen the movie (if not, what's wrong with you?) so I will spare you all the details of the plot. But I will summarize it shortly. 3 Jamaican sprinters who fail to qualify for the Summer Olympics join a pushcart derby driver to create a bobsled team to compete in the Winter Olympics. After recruiting a former U.S. Bobsled star to coach them, they arrive in Calgary much to the chagrin of other nations who think they are out of their league. What they lack in experience though, they make up for with determination. After a rough start, they prove others wrong and become fan favorites and national heroes in their homeland.
So why put this movie in my top ten? Well, let's start with the aforementioned plot. It's a good one and based on a true story. That's right. This actually happened. There was a Jamaican bobsled team. It almost seems like an oxymoron. But that fact is what drives this movie. You never forget the fact that these guys are out of their element. They are used to heat and are now in the frigid cold. They are used to running on grass and dirt and now running on ice. And they are used to the easy-going nature of Jamaica and not the competitive nature of the Winter Olympics. They have to overcome challenge after challenge and yes, there are trials, but also, there are triumphs.
What makes this movie great too is the great mix of comedy and drama. Because this is a PG Disney movie, you don't get crude humor. No, you get humor that is just simply funny. Great one-liners and witty insults. Great "a-ha" moments as the Jamaicans adapt to their surroundings. And great, well, John Candy and Doug E. Doug. Both steal the comedic spotlight in this movie. Candy does it with his sarcastic, tough guy attitude. Doug with his laid-back, free spirit kind of attitude. Both have numerous hilarious scenes that keep the movie flowing with funny, even in the most tense or serious of moments. As a kid, that comedy kept the movie light right when you thought it was getting too serious. And now as an adult and someone who doesn't mind a "too serious" moment, those lines remind me that you can never take life too seriously. Both characters are among my favorites of all-time.
It's more than the comedy though. It's the drama. I did not know the true story of this team going into the movie so everything from them qualifying to crashing in the end was all new to me. So everything from them making enough money to get to Calgary to getting a sled to qualifying for the actual event all had me on the edge of my seat. The drama wasn't just the bobsledding action though. It also was prevalent in the relationships between some of the characters. There are pasts that are not forgotten and grudges that have not been let go. Not to mention also the lack of respect the bobsledders are getting form the rest of the world. All of this adds to what is already a compelling story as these characters must not just overcome the adversity on the track but also off the track.
There are lots of great scenes in this movie. But no doubt, the best scene of them all is the last one. While it not 100% factually true (they did not carry the sled and there was no slow clap. Instead, they walked down the ice to the finish to sporadic applause), the way the writers decided to depict that event is incredibly inspiring. As a kid, I remember thinking for maybe the first time in my life, they won even by losing. It's a mantra that I've tried to keep with me since. I've lost a lot in my life, especially when it comes to sporting events. That includes teams I have been on and teams I root for. In every loss though, I try not to think of the negative but instead, only on the positive. Find a way to learn from the loss. Find a way to turn the bad from it into something good. Yes, it's easy for a coach to tell you that but when you see it actually done as in this movie, it really hits you. These guys inspired not just a nation, but a world that chasing your dreams is okay. They showed a world that the impossible is possible if you try. They did not win gold, but they won the hearts of everyone watching.
It is those types on moments in movies and in real life that I will never forget. How I felt watching that as a kid and how I feel watching that scene now truly inspires me. Because it is a Disney movie, it is complete with the inspirational music and the many facts that are tweaked just for dramatic effect, but unlike other Disney sports movies, this one hits me. This one makes me feel something. This one works. And I'm glad I have a friend in Luke who shares my love in this movie as well and look forward to it making his list.
TRAILER
I like the trailer. Think it is a good mix of inspiration and comedy. It also brings up a good point that I did not mention which is how this movie resonates with my belief in standing out in a crowd when standing up for what you believe in.
MEMORABLE QUOTES
Irv: "Our Father, who art in Calgary, Bobsled be thy name. Thy kingdom come, gold medals won, on Earth as it is in Turn Seven. With Liberty and Justice for Jamaica and Haile Selassie. Amen"
Sanka: "I am feeling very Olympic today, how about you?"
Irv: "I told the owner of the bar that these guys were mentally disturbed, so he's not going to press any charges." Sanka: "Yeah! Sled god does it again!
Sanka: "All I'm saying, mon, is if we walk Jamaican, talk Jamaican, and *is* Jamaican, then we sure as hell better bobsled Jamaican. "
That's it for #10. Don't forget to check out Luke's blog as he uncovers his #10 movie. Check back next week on both blogs for #9. Just for fun, I'll leave a tease for each movie in my top ten. For #9...
TEASE FOR #9: Won the Academy Award for Best Picture
So far through this countdown, I'm pretty sure Luke has mentioned more movies on his list that I have NOT seen than movies that I have seen. My hope though was that in these last 20, that trend would change and I could give a great reaction to each of his movies.
But of course, that hope was dashed in movies 20-16 from Luke. Not only did he put more movies that I had not seen, he only put movies that I had not seen. Thankfully, I have seen 4 of the 5 in movies 11-15. So this reaction post has some meat to it but it also has a lot of veggies (I know that makes no sense) so read at your own risk.
20. Mr. Holland's Opus
-- I remember this trailer when I was younger and then, I thought it boring. The commercials on TV were also boring. So needless to say, when the movies actually came out, I had no want to see the movie. And even though Luke has ranked it so high on his list, I still don't want to see this movie. And this coming from a guy who has a passion for music. Sorry but no thanks.
19. Crazy Heart
-- There is one, and only one reason I want to see this movie: Jeff Bridges. He has forever been an actor I respected. So when he won the Oscar for this performance, it made me want to see what all the fuss was about. But I'm not a big fan of the premise of this movie. First off, country music. Secondly, the storyline is kind of been there, done that. And thirdly, I've never seen a good Maggie Gyllenhaal performance. But one day, I hope to give this a shot because you don't get nominated for a Best Picture Oscar for being a bad movie.
18. Gone Baby Gone
-- A movie that sort of intrigued me when it was in theaters but not one I ever thought about seeing. Ben Affleck has proven he can write a good movie and from all accounts, can direct a good movie too. Thing is, I haven't seen any of them. I need to change that. I would probably see "the Town" first but this is one I wouldn't mind checking out. For Luke to put it on his list though brings about no bad comment from me. Heard nothing but good things.
17. Rain Man
-- I know, I know. I should have seen this movie by now. It is an American classic and an Oscar winner. But you have to consider a couple things. This movie came out in 1988 so it wasn;t exactly a must-watch when I was 2 years old. And secondly, there are lots of Amercian classics. I've seen a lot but I know I have more to see. And I like to think I have time to do it. So kudos for Luke for seeing this one and ranking it so high. But again, nothing really to say here.
16. A Christmas Story
-- I do however have something to say here. Again, have not seen this movie from start to finish but that's simply because I can't make it the whole way. It's just not good. I don't find it funny or heartwarming. As much as Luke says it's not Christmas until he see this movie, it's not Christmas for me until I moan and groan that they continue to show it on repeat for a whole day on TBS. Seriously, a "Home Alone" marathon I understand. Grinch, Frosty and Rudolph, let's do it. But this movie is simply not good. But of course, that's just my opinion.
15. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgandy
-- Well done sir. Come on, you think a guy in my profession wouldn't like a movie like this? It's flat out hilarious. As Luke writes, what may makes this movie so great is it's quotability. All through college and to this day, I have met people who quote the movie as much as I do. It's pure comedy genius. And kudos to every main character. Not Just Will Ferrell, but Carell, Rudd, Koechner, Applegate and Willard. Just great stuff.
14. Good Will Hunting
-- If you've been reading my list, you know my take on this fine movie. I just saw it a few months ago and am really glad I did. Luke couldn't be more right when he says this movie is about more than just an intelligent janitor. It hits you on so many levels and thank to fantastic acting from all of its main characters, you feel it on all of those levels. It ranked #38 on my list but I have no problem with Luke listing it this high. When I see it again, it may end up this high as well.
13. The Hangover
-- Probably the only movie I went to go see simply because EVERYONE who had seen it texted me to go see it. I mean, literally, every person I know would text me and ask if I had seen it or just ask me to my face. After a couple weeks of just thinking people were getting paid to say this, I went and well, I understood and agreed with their assessment. Luke is dead-on when he says this movie makes you laugh in different ways. It's a mix of everything, not just one. I will say it makes me sad to think this is the final comedy on his list. Luke's a funny guy and loves a good laugh so it does sort of shock me to see this movie be the comedic finale to his countdown.
12. Life is Beautiful
-- Luke mentioned a few years ago that he liked this movie and well, I was a bit taken aback because well, I hadn't heard of it. I wasn't following Oscar nominations bak in 1997 so I don;t remember its success there and I truly don't remember any buzz about it. I have met people who do like the movie though so that encourages me that Luke is not crazy for putting this on his list. But #12...wow. Whenever I do see it, it better be good because this is a lofty ranking, Critics love it. Luke loves it. We'll see.
11. The Dark Knight
-- This movie narrowly missed my top 20 so you know I hve no problem with this movie landing just outside of Luke's top 10. Much like Luke, Heath Ledger's performance as The Joker ranks right up there as one of the best performances I've ever seen. There is simply not one fault to this movie. Yep, not even Maggie Gyllenhaal's mediocre acting. It is easily the best Batman movie ever and I can only hope "The Dark Knight Rises" rises above this one instead of falling flat like sequels to great movies tend to do.
Alright all, that's my reaction. My unveiling of #10 will be coming very, very soon. So check back in the near future and find out where I begin the top 10!
After taking a bit of a comedic turn with movies 16-20, this list of 5 is a bit more dramatic. Yes, there are some laughs to be had among this group but overall, the stories in these movies tug at your heart strings, make you think, and make you respect others more. Like 16-20, I have included video clips and memorable quotes with the movies. This post is long, I understand that. But these movies are that good. Starting next week, we will only be revealing one movie at a time so enjoy the final post with multiple movies. It all starts with an Oscar-winning Best Picture at #15.
15. The Hurt Locker (2009) Starring Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty Directed by Kathryn Bigelow
I had no reason to see this movie. I don't remember one trailer about it. I don't like war movies. I didn't really know one actor in it. And it didn't make a lot of money at the box office ($12 million on an $11 million budget). But thanks to the Oscars, I took a chance on this movie and it may easily be one of the smartest decisions I have made.
Coming off a day of remembering September 11th, 2001, it almost seems fitting I write about this movie and what makes it so good and why it ranks so high on my list. If you don't know the plot, the dumbed-down version is that this is the story of an elite Army bomb squad unit working in Iraq during the war on terror. The movie is set in 2004 and is no doubt based on true events of the time. The movie is more than what the unit does and how they do it, but it's about the relationship build together as a team and how the war affects certain people differently.
This movie is truly a fascinating look at just how certain people are wired differently. While some of us have no problem looking fear in the eye, some cower or run away. While some of us handle the death of others well, some allow it to linger with them for days, months, and years. While some people are cool under pressure, some simply freak out. It is these differences that you find in our military. Yes, our current military. While we may think they all are brave (and they truly are), some of them will react differently in dire situations. It's just a fact. But no matter how they react, they are a team and must work with each other because not only is it the best chance of defeating the enemy, but the best chance of coming back home alive.
By focusing on a small military squad like this elite bomb squad, we get an even closer look at how the war has affected these soldiers. Imagine your task everyday is to dismantle a bomb and/or find the trigger. Oh, and don't forget there are IEDs (improvised explosive devices) planted everywhere so you never know when one will go off around you either. Some are stronger or more complicated than others. Some have time limits. Others are triggered by something as simple as a cell phone calling it. It's clearly not a job I would sign up for but one I am thankful there are soldiers who are not just trained to do well, but willing to do for our freedom.
Every second of this movie is powerful. Whether it is the squad approaching a bomb, discussing strategy, or decompressing after a successful mission. Every scene gives you an inside look into the battlefield. You see the toll it takes on them. You get a feel for just how skilled our own soldiers. And I remind you, this is not a documentary. This is a movie. But this movie FEELS so real that you almost forget that fact. The movie is shot in Jordan, giving it the backdrop that is believable. The way it shot feels more like a documentary than a feature film and the acting doesn't look like acting. It is that good.
The three main characters in the movie all have so much depth to them as well that you discover through the movie. Yes, all our soldiers and have tough exteriors but as the movie unfolds, you learn more about each of them as they learn more about each other. It even gets a bit emotional as they inevitably lose friends in the heat of combat and wonder if they'll ever get home alive. Jeremy Renner, who plays the squad leader Sgt. James is especially good in this movie. Check that, he is great. His character is easily the toughest to play. He has so many layers that make you hate him and love him. You at times are impressed with him but annoyed by him. And the way he treats his two comrades is not just reckless but rude. But by the end of the movie, you understand him more and see his true colors. Renner may have been an unknown coming into this movie but his performance in this movie should have made him a household name. An Oscar nomination helped that a bit.
Have to give a special nod to the director of this fine film Kathryn Bigelow. Not only she she win Best Director (over Avatar director and ex-husband James Cameron), but she became the first woman to win the award. The way she structures this film was simply fantastic. There's no slow moment. There is never a moment you are not on the edge of your seat or simply amazed by the people that we have serving our country overseas thanks to this movie. And that's what this is all about. The Iraq war is not a popular movie subject right now and it makes sense considering it is still ongoing. But this movie does a great job bringing light to one of the most dangerous jobs done overseas and not only does it educate you in its 2 hours, but it entertains you. If you haven't seen this movie, do yourself and our armed forces a favor and do so. You'll not only be glad you did but you'll be that much more prouder of the job our military does.
God Bless those guys and girls.
Video Clips
I'll start with the trailer. Of course, it does no full justice to the complete movie but it is good nonetheless.
This is one of the more powerful scenes of the movie. Sgt. James is good at his job. He has disarmed more than 800 bombs. But when he can't disarm one a timed one on an innocent man with a family, you can see his confidence turn to pain.
This scene just an example of how quickly things can change for these guys. Right when they try to bring a little normalcy into their lives, another threat arises.
Finally, here is a 3 minute clip that may serve as the best scene in the movie as Sgt. James discusses with his comrade about why they do what they do. Powerful stuff.
Memorable Quotes
Sgt. James: "There's enough bang in there to blow us all to Jesus. If I'm gonna die, I want to die comfortable."
Sgt. James: "Everyone's scared about something, you know?"
Sgt. Sanborn: "Maybe you shouldn't take this down. You know, we get a lot of mortars at night. You know, the plywood on the windows help with the lateral frag coming through. That's why it's up there." Sgt. James: "Yeah, well, it's not going to stop a mortar round from coming in through the roof, you know. Besides, I like the sunshine"
14. Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Starring Dev Patel, Frieda Pinto Directed by Danny Boyle
Just like The Hurt Locker, I never had an urge to see this movie until the Oscars. I sort of remember this trailer though but I never thought "oh yeah, this is a movie I want to see". But thanks to all the Oscar buzz and subsequent wins (8 in all, including Best Picture), I saw it. And as you can see by its placement on this list, I loved it.
There are lots of things to like about this movie but the best thing is simple: the screenplay. It is simply top notch and worthy of the Oscar it won. The plot sounds simple enough but trust me, it's not. Jamal, an 18-year orphan from the streets of Mumbai, India is on India's version of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?". He gets every question right up until the million dollar question, when they have to break for the day until the next day. At that time, he is kidnapped/arrested for cheating and for good reason. How else would a kid from the slums know the answer to such complex questions that the majority of the nation does not know? So Jamal recounts for them through the night his life story and with each question comes a story in his life that explains how he knows the answer. He is eventually let out and allowed to play for the million dollars. How does the movie end? Does he answer the final question correctly? Not gonna find out here. Sorry.
What makes this movie so entertaining is how they find a way to tie in each question to a point in his life. And these points in his life aren't boring by any means. Many of them are moments where he is running away from bad people just to stay alive or times where he is falling in in love. Each one of the moments are intense and emotional too. As Roger Ebert put it in his review, "this is a breathless, exciting story, heartbreaking and exhilarating at the same time."
The reason for this is that this movie does a few things about as best as you can do them. First, it intercuts the flashbacks with each question, so you are never too comfortable. The story just keeps driving forward. Secondly, you get a taste of India, a country that never gets a good wrap. You see the good and bad of the country. And by being exposed to something so different, it becomes a fabulous backdrop to this great story. And thirdly, he has actors that hit all the right notes. And most of these actors are young kids, right out of India! Their playful attitudes and scared faces are incredibly believable. Not to mention they are crazy cute, with their laughter, smiles and even in their fear/tears. There were numerous times in this movie where my heart either skipped a beat, broke, or just dropped. That's the mark of a movie that knows how to engage a viewer and tell a story so well that you forget it's actually fictional.
Another great thing is that the main character Jamal is such a great character to root for. You've seen his life story and know all the pain he has had to endure and all the challenges he has had to overcome just to stay alive, let alone be a contestant on the quiz show. That rooting is matched by the people of India watching the quiz show, who want to see the impossible happen. They want to see one of their own do something never done before. It is the absolute underdog story, something I clearly have shown an affinity for during this countdown. At 2 hours, this movie won't waste your time. Instead, it will leave you astounded at how this movie isn't talked about more as one of the all-time greats.
Video Clips
Again, we'll start with the trailer, which does this movie justice I think.
Next up, a great clip of the young child actors. In this scene, they are young entrepreneurs, as they live without the guidance of parents and find ways to get by as orphans.
And finally, one of the final scenes of the movie, when Jamal is in the hot seat on the final question. If you've seen the movie, you remember the suspense of this scene.
Memorable Quotes:
Jamal Malik: I knew you'd be watching. Latika: I thought we would meet only in death. Jamal Malik: This is our destiny. Latika: Kiss me.
Police Inspector: [whispering] Doctors... Lawyers... never get past 60 thousand rupees. He's won 10 million. [pause] Police Inspector: What the hell can a slumdog possibly know? Jamal Malik: [quietly] The answers. [spits out blood] Jamal Malik: [quietly and gently] I knew the answers.
13. Sister Act II: Back In The Habit (1993) Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Lauryn Hill, Kathy Najimy Directed by Bill Duke
Going in a much different direction here than the last two...but a direction that is definitely worth going in. It's not often a sequel is better than the original. This is one of the rare times where that is true, and by a landslide. If you like a good comedy, a good underdog story, and some great music, then there is no doubt in my mind that you will love this movie.
Again, I go back to my numerous statements that say I ranked these movies for a variety of reasons. I've gone from picking movies for their ability to connect me to my childhood, for great special effects, for spectacular or sometime horrific acting, and for how "real" the movie has felt. Well, this movie does a little bit of all of that and much, much more. What this movie adds that others don't is absolutely great music, characters I can relate with and are just entertaining, and a storyline that is all too real these days, thought this movie was made back in 1993.
Some quick background for you. Growing up, I was in the school choir from 4th grade to 8th grade, singing a lot of religious-like songs too (yes, in a public school). I love music and I love the arts in general. It's a shame that these days that extra-curricular activities are the first thing on the cutting room floor when money gets tight in school districts. Well, in this movie, it's more than just the extra-curriculars that may get cut, it's the entire school. But thanks to the arts, the school is saved, and that's thanks to Sister Mary Clarence, played by Whoopi Goldberg.
You see, Sister Mary Clarence is not a "Sister". She's more of a "Sista". She is not a nun, but someone who did shows in Vegas. She comes to the help of her friends at the school to save the choir program and the school. What seems like an impossible task at the start turns positive soon when she notices the talent in the room, from wanna-be rappers to girls like Lauryn Hill's character that can flat-out sing. By the end of this movie, you are treated to 6-8 amazing songs from this choir and Hill and all with a storyline that produces a great amount of laughs.
Critics panned this movie as too cliche and using a tired formula. I on the other hand agree with most viewers who have seen it that instead find it to be inspirational in ways and entertaining from start to finish. Yes, you know how things are going to end but you get great musical numbers and some funny moments/jokes that make up for the predictability. And these aren't just all White people or Black people. The movie does a wonderful job of collecting a group of actors from all races, so each has their own personality and viewpoints. It was refreshing in 1993 and is still refreshing now. I have seen this movie over 10 times and still listen to songs from its soundtrack to this day. 18 years later from when I first saw it, it still ranks as one of my favorites and probably will for a long, long time.
Video Clips
Here is the trailer. It's actually quite awful when I consider who good the movie is.
Here's a clip demonstrating just how uncool Sister Mary Clarence was to the group before she earned their respect
And finally, I debated between the "Oh Happy Day" or "Joyful, Joyful" song to put on here. I went with the latter. Yes, it represents that last part of the movie, but it ruins nothing about the movie I think. One of my favorite movie songs/performances easily.
Memorable Quotes:
Sister Mary Clarence: If you want to be somebody, if you want to go somewhere, you better wake up and pay attention.
Sister Mary Clarence: [after Maria has said she doesn't know the words of a song and her classmates snicker] Hey, hey - excuse me! It is NOT Maria's fault, that she does not know that Mary had a lamb. It is not - and I say this to you - it is *not* Maria's fault. Because maybe, MAYBE where Maria came from, Mary had a dog! Or a lil kitty cat! Or a little bald headed brother named Bart! It is NOT her fault and we're not going to tell her it is, are we? No we are not!
12. The Boondock Saints (1999) Starring Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flannery, Willem Dafoe Directed by Troy Duffy
Just like American History X, I did not see this great "thinking-man" movie until college. And right after seeing it, I thought to myself "What took me so long?".
This movie has become a bit of a cult classic so I'm not even sure I need to explain the plot but I'll give a short summary. Two brothers seek to rid the streets of Boston of criminals/bad people while being searched by an FBI agent, who must decide if what they are doing is right or wrong. It is a fascinating argument, and it is that argument that makes this one of my favorite movies af all-time.
Just think about it. These guys go around Boston, killing mobsters and other criminals who are clearly doing bad in the city. They aren't doing this out of vengeance, but instead as a response to a vision from God. They believe God wants them to rid the evil from the world so that good may flourish. Now we all can agree killing people in itself is wrong, bu what about killing people that are doing bad in the world? Does it then become good? You almost have to equate it to war. Is killing the enemy bad or good? Again, the act of killing another person is wrong but when that person is doing wrong and probably trying to kill you now or down the road, it all the sudden becomes right.
Throughout this movie, you get to decide how you feel on the subject. You either side with the brothers and their mission or you side with Willem Dafoe, the FBI agent who wants to bring justice to them. That is, until even he has a hard time deciding if it is better if the brothers keep killing the same people he is hunting down OR to arrest the brothers for their numerous murders. Because the brothers aren't harming innocent people, why take them off the streets?
Everytime I see this movie, I am moved by it because in a way, you wish there were people like this who were willing to rid the world of evil. But at the same time, you know it would probably be a bad idea. I commend this movie though for tackling this and doing so with a great soundtrack and great casting. Flannery and Reedus are spot-on as brothers and Dafoe brings some absurdity and intensity that is much needed in what can be a very tense movie. I have yet to see the sequel because I know it can't be as good as this one, especially since they decided to wait 10 years to make the second. One day I will but I am convinced, it has no chance to compare to this one.
Video Clips
The trailer isn't the best but it gets across the point of the movie and how you get to make the decision of whether they are right or wrong.
This is a classic scene with Willem Dafoe, as he tries to put together another crime scene. He has weird methods but the way this is shot and orchestrated is in my mind great cinematography.
And of course, no Boondock Saints review would be complete without posting the famous prayer they say before or after each kill.
Memorable Quotes
Paul Smecker: Oh, isn't that beautiful? All the lowlifes in quiet city Boston start dropping dead and *you* think it's unrelated! Greenly, the day I want the Boston Police to do my thinking for me, I will have a fucking tag on my toe!
Murphy: Do not kill, do not rape, do not steal, these are principles which every man of every faith can embrace. Connor: These are not polite suggestions, these are codes of behavior and those of you that ignore them will pay the dearest cost.
The prayer: "And Shepherds we shall be For Thee my Lord, for Thee Power hath descended forth from Thy hand Our feet may swiftly carry out Thy commands. So we shall flow a river forth to Thee And teeming with souls shall it ever be. In Nomine Patri, Et Fili, Et Spiritus Sancti."
11. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) Starring Robin Williams, Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan Directed by Chris Columbus
Among my top 100, this my be in the top 5 of movies I have seen the most. I couldn't count how many times I've seen this movie on my hands. It's been that often and if I see it on TV, you can just forget whatever I need to do until it is over. It's the kind of movie that lifts your spirits and just makes you laugh.
Robin Williams is no doubt the star of this movie, playing a father who just wants to see his kids more often than the court-ordered Saturdays only due to a divorce. So he dresses up in drag and becomes "Mrs. Doubtfire", a nanny with a British accent and a bit of an attitude, She is exactly what the kids need (his kids) and immediately gets the job. The antics that ensue from when he is hired to when the act is discovered are priceless, as we learn just how tough it is to be a man in drag all day long.
There are lots of reasons to like this movie. For one, the comedy. Because of Williams, you get tons of great lines and great scenes. Many of them deal with him trying to cover-up his real identity. Others just involve good one-liners. This movie is not exactly laugh out loud all the time, but the laughs are plentiful. There also is a heart-warming story behind this movie of a father who simply wants to be around his kids. He would do just about anything to do it...and that's exactly what he does. Yes, it's a bit extreme but in a way, being their nanny makes them closer to them than ever before.
What also puts this movie so high on my list is that it is one of the few movies (and I mean few) where my whole family could watch and all enjoy. I'm sure that my whole family created a top 100 list, this movie would crack the top 50 on all lists. It is a movie for young people and not so young people. I've grown to appreciate some of the comedy more now that I am older as well as the toll divorce takes on not just the parents but the kids. This movie does a great job of preaching that family comes first, no matter what. And to be able to share that theme with my own family with an entertaining movie such as this one is special.
Video Clips
We'll begin with the trailer. I forget how bad trailers were in the early 90's.
So how do his two oldest kids find out she is really a he?
And another funny scene as he tries to keep his cover. This time, with the court liaison.
Mrs. Doubtfire: Oh, sir. I saw it! Some angry member of the kitchen staff, Did you not tip them? Oh, the terrorists! They ran that way. It was a run-by fruiting. I'll get them sir. Don't worry.
That's it and that's all for movies 11-15. Next week, we start unveiling one movie at a time as the countdown continues. Don't forget to check over at Luke's blog for his countdown. Just 10 movies to go. Wow.
And here we are. The top 20 movies I've seen. Been a fun journey so far but it's only gonna get better from here. That's because now the posts reveal less movies but reveal more of why I like a particular movie. After taking a bit of a dramatic turn in movies 21-30, the next 5 movies I will reveal are from the funny side of me. All 5 are movies I have seen numerous times and know I will see numerous times for a long, long time. It was easy to put them on this list. It wasn't as easy to place them because in all honesty, I could shuffle these movies around and still be happy. Here we go.
20. Jack (1996) Starring Robin Williams, Diane Lane, Jennifer Lopez, Bill Cosby Directed by Francis Ford Coppola
I couldn't tell you the first time I saw this movie. But I can tell you that ever since then, I can't wait to see it again. It's one of those movies that just makes you smile. I know that sounds simple but that's what this movie does. It entertains you, makes you think a bit, but ultimately, just makes you happy cause it's such a good time.
The plot is great. Jack has an unusual aging disorder that has him age 4 times faster than normal. So when he heads to the fifth grade, he looks like he is 40 years old. After years of home schooling, Jack decides to venture into an actual school. As you can imagine, his appearance becomes playground fodder and he is quickly cast as an outcast. But like most kids at that age, it takes just one kid to befriend him and from there, friendships are made, opinions are changed, and good times are had. That's exactly what you get in this movie.
I can name tons of great scenes in this movie because there truly are tons. There isn't a slow moment in this movie as you see kids be kids and Jack (played wonderfully by Robin Williams) learn to embrace his appearance and at times, use it to his advantage. You see Jack overcome challenges, with the help of his family, friends, and teachers. It is just a feel-good movie that hits on all cylinders.
All through this movie list, I have gotten a lot of grief about my amount of animated movies and my willingness to embrace movies that should really only crack this list if I were a kid. But the thing is, I embrace my inner child. At times, I like to think I am Jack. I am still that little kid that is always curious. That kid who will try anything because I don't see the consequences. That kid who tells little white lies to get what I want. All of these things and more I hope stay with me no matter how old I get. Just how I try to hang onto my college habits more than 3 years out of college, I try to hang onto those childhood views that not only keep me young, but keep me from growing up too quickly.
This movie reminds of us that. It's okay to be a kid sometimes. It's okay to be a little silly. Don't ever take life too seriously, whether you are 10, 40 or 80. Life should be fun. I mean, you only get one of them. Why not make the most of it?
Video ClipsI couldn't find great clips of this movie. In fact, couldn't find many clips at all. But here a couple that I think represent what I mean about Jack's carefree attitude and how he lived life to the fullest.
And here is the trailer...an extended one with lots of scenes that do the movie justice I think.
Memorable Quotes
- Jack: "What do I want to be when I grow up? Alive."
- Jack: "Mom, am I a giant?"
- Louis (Jack's best friend): "I want to be just like my best friend when I grow up. He's only ten but he looks much older. He's like the perfect grown up because on the inside, he's still just a kid - he's not afraid to learn things or try things, or to meet new people the way most grown ups are. It's like he's looking at everything for the first time - because he is. And most grown ups aren't like that."
19. Office Space (1999) Starring Ron Livingston, Jennifer Aniston, Gary Cole Directed by Mike Judge
We've all had those days. Job sucks. You want nothing more than to kick your boss in the face. It's a common thought among millions of Americans every day. But yet, nothing is done about it. Thankfully though, there are movies like this one to allow us to dream about "What if?" and lose ourselves in what is easily one of the funniest movies I've ever seen.
What makes this movie so great is the comedy, plain and simple. Every scene is funny and that's not an exaggeration. There is nothing serious about this movie. It knows it takes things a bit further than anyone would actually take them in real life, but that's why it's a movie. For example, the start of the movie has the main character Peter hear from 4 supervisors that the reports need cover letters now. Not often do you have 4 supervisors repeat the same thing to you. But it sets the foundation for what you find out to be a workplace that is clearly impossible to survive in with your sanity in tact.
So Peter and his friends form a plan to plant a virus in the company's system to make money so they can eventually get out of the hellhole they are in. That's the basic plot. But that plot synopsis does not do the movie justice. In fact, nothing I wrote here will because it's impossible to encapsulate this movie in a few paragraphs.
The movie is the perfect blend of comedy and reality. I say reality because we can all relate to feelings the characters have about their workplace. It can be frustrating, irritating and downright terrible. But yet, we trudge through it because it pays the bills. But after Peter sees a hypnotherapist that puts him in a trance that has him forever slacking off, we start to see just how ridiculous the workplace can be. Peter skips work and tells managers how little he does and yet gets promoted. Meanwhile, across the street, his love interest Joanna puts in effort into her job but thanks to a go-getter co-worker, she is always being pushed to do more and ultimately, pushed to her limits. The scenes involving both characters are flat out hilarious, adding to the absurdity of the situations.
Beyond the laughs, there are some great characters. Gary Cole plays one of the worst bosses you could ever have in Bill Lumbergh. Stephen Root plays Milton, a "not all there" guy who is obsessed with a stapler and is unwilling to speak up to authority. Instead, internalizing it all. And then Peter's good friends Michael Bolton (not that Michael Bolton) and Samir provide some great dialogue throughout the movie as nervous nellies as their plan is hatched and eventually executed wrongfully. Not gonna find any Oscar nominations here for acting but trust me, all do an admirable job with their roles and helped make this movie truly hilarious.
The dry, witty comedy of Livingston combined with eccentric comedy of the others just make for a great combination for comedy. Plus, add in the fact that we've all been there and you can probably see why I have this movie this high. The memorable scenes are plentiful, from taking a baseball bat to a faulty copier to Peter's discussions with Bob and Bob. All will have you laughing heartily. I didn't see this movie until college but since then, I think I have seen it more than 5 times and have caught it many a times on TV and watched it from where I found out to finish. It's just that good.
Video Clips
Here is the official trailer. Great stuff in here.
Another great example of the kind of comedy you find in this movie. "I've got people skills!"
What would it be like to have the name Michael Bolton?
And I have to post the classic copier/printer smash scene...
Memorable Quotes:
Nina: Now Milton, don't be greedy, let's pass it along and make sure everyone gets a piece. Milton Waddams: Yeah, but last time I didn't receive a piece. And I was told... Nina: Just pass.
[while the cake passes Milton mutters - eventually everybody but Milton gets a piece] Milton Waddams: [muttering] I could set the building on fire
Peter Gibbons: It's not just about me and my dream of doing nothing. It's about all of us. I don't know what happened to me at that hypnotherapist and, I don't know, maybe it was just shock and it's wearing off now, but when I saw that fat man keel over and die - Michael, we don't have a lot of time on this earth! We weren't meant to spend it this way. Human beings were not meant to sit in little cubicles staring at computer screens all day, filling out useless forms and listening to eight different bosses drone on about about mission statements. Michael Bolton: I told those fudge-packers I liked Michael Bolton's music. Peter Gibbons: Oh. That is not right, Michael.
Bill Lumbergh: Hello Peter, whats happening? Ummm, I'm gonna need you to go ahead come in tomorrow. So if you could be here around 9 that would be great, mmmk... oh oh! and I almost forgot ahh, I'm also gonna need you to go ahead and come in on Sunday too, kay. We ahh lost some people this week and ah, w
Peter Gibbons: The thing is, Bob, it's not that I'm lazy, it's that I just don't care
18. Juno (2007) Starring Ellen Page, Jason Bateman, Jennifer Garner, Michael Cera Directed by Jason Reitman
There are few movies that can make light of such a serious situation and do so without making you uncomfortable or angry. This movie does just that though, and with ease. Instead of feeling awkward about the situation, you find yourself laughing or smiling, even though lives seem to be falling apart.
Let me explain. Juno is a teenage girl who has an unplanned pregnancy, on her first time having sex. Oops. And while she has no intention of keeping the child for herself, she fully plans on having the child. So she sets it up to give the child away to a loving couple, played by the always wonderful Jason Bateman and Jennifer Garner. Thing is, Juno is not your typical teenage girl. She has a very sarcastic, self-confident, and thanks to her pregnancy, also a bit emotional as the 9 months go on. But during that time, things go a bit awry. People at school make fun of her as she grows larger, causing her to become even more of an outcast than she already was. Pauly, the baby's dad (played wondefully by Michael Cera) asks another girl out for a school dance. And the to-be parents of Juno's kid are slowly seeing their marriage fall apart as Bateman discovers he still wants to be a kid, let alone be the father of one.
That's just the jist though of this great movie. This movie is obviously much more than that paragraph. It is a collection of great scenes, great lines, and great characters wrapped into an Oscar-winning original screenplay. Like other movies I've put on my list, what I like about this movie is that it feels real. Unplanned pregnancies happen all the time. Decisions on whether to have the child happen all the time. Giving a child away happens all the time. And marriages fall apart all the time. But rarely do they all unfold with such great dialogue from characters that have so much depth to them.
I've seen this movie twice and both times, I am amazed at just how I get lost in this movie. These characters are fake but the story feels all too real. And thanks to great acting, you truly do sometimes forget it is not real. Ellen Page was nominated for an Oscar for this role and for good reason. Her turn from confident, wisecracking teenager to emotional, confused pregnant mother in a matter of 90 minutes is truly seamless. The supporting cast is easily one of the strongest you'll find in any movie. Bateman and Garner are more than solid. Cera is the perfect choice as the kid who has no business being a father at his age and not knowing how to deal with it. Juno's parents, played by Allison Janney and J.K.Simmons steal the show on multiple occasions as they guide her through the entire process. It's a solid effort by all of them, helping make this movie one of the best I've seen.
It's definitely not a drama but it has dramatic moments in it. In my mind, this is a comedy through and through as we join Juno on this 9-month journey. We fall in love with just about every character, even though all are so different. We also learn valuable life lessons through the mistakes of others. The ending is very satisfying and the movie flows nicely with not one slow spot in its 96-minute time frame. It has an indie-movie feel, which I appreciate. With a budget of just $7.5 million, this movie grossed more than $140 million worldwide. If you haven't seen it yet, you'll find out why it did.
Video Clips
Here is the trailer, which pretty much sums up what I wrote above. If this doesn't hook you, I'm not sure what will.
Here is the song that kind of brings the whole movie together at the end.
And this clip just gives you a good idea of the kind of comedy you get from the movie. Classic Juno.
Memorable Quotes: (all from Juno)
Juno MacGuff:
You should've gone to China, you know, 'cause I hear they give away
babies like free iPods. You know, they pretty much just put them in
those t-shirt guns and shoot them out at sporting events. Juno MacGuff:
As far as boyfriends go, Paulie Bleeker is totally boss. He is the
cheese to my macaroni. And, I know that people are supposed to fall in
love before they reproduce, but... I guess normalcy isn't really our
style.
Juno MacGuff:
I could so go for like a huge cookie right now, with like, a lamb kabob simultaneously.
Juno MacGuff:
Can I use the facilities? Because being pregnant makes me pee like Seabiscuit!
Juno MacGuff:
I am giving you the gift of life, screaming, pooping life, and you don't
even have to be there when it comes out all covered in blood and guts
17. Coming To America (1988) Starring Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones Directed by John Landis
Fun fact: If you asked me what is the first rated-R movie I saw in my life, this movie would be the answer. If you asked me what age, all I could tell you was 5 or younger. Yep, that's right. My parents let me see this movie that young. But before you go calling children's services on them, remember this. I was so young, I had not one clue what I was hearing or even seeing. All I saw was flashy jewelry, greasy hair, and lots of laughing. That equaled a great movie to me then. Fast forward now to 2011 and being 25 years old and the same movie ranks in my top 20. Yeah, it's that good.
Thankfully now, I like this movie for more than just the jewelry, hair and laughing. No, I like this movie because it is just flat-out funny. Credit most of that to Eddie Murphy, who excels in yet another movie playing multiple characters. Also give some credit for the ridiculous but heart-warming plot, that centers around an African prince who wants to find his own wife instead of having one chosen for him. When he decides to embark on this quest for a wife, he figures what better place for a future king to find his bride than Queens, New York. Seems like a good idea, except for the fact that it is Queens, New York.
The culture shock for Prince Akeem (Murphy) and his sidekick/friend Semmi (Arsenio Hall) really drives the movie from start to finish. Seeing them try to assimilate into not just the American culture, but the New York culture is downright hilarious. So many scenes are laugh-out-loud funny, and that's not exaggerating. The quest to find love is also one that provides laughter as Akeem searches far and wide for women and most times, in the wrong places. And the barbershop scenes...oh, those barbershop scenes. Simply priceless.
What puts this movie into my top 20 is just how innocent it is at its core. Prince Akeem just wants to find his own Queen. Semmi just wants to get back to where he is comfortable. John Amos, who plays the manager of the McDonald's the two work at and the father of the eventual bride to Akeem simply wants to make money and not see his daughter be hurt. But beyond that, it really is a great showcase of Black America. Yes, Black people can be loud. Yes, Black preachers can go on and on and on. Yes, Black people loved their Jheri Curl ("Just let your Soullllllllllllllll-Glo"). And yes, Black barbershops are more than just places to get your haircuts. It's a place to socialize. This movie does a grat job of not just portraying in a good light, but in an accurate light. Not a lot of movies will do that but thankfully, this one does. I think that's one reason my parents didn;t mind me watching this movie at such a tender age.
Now with that said, this movie is rated R for a reason. The language in the barbershop is filthy. The first scene of the movie has Prince Akeem have his "royal penis" cleaned by women who come for underwater topless. Yeah, it's a sight to see. One that I did not notice until I was 12 and was shocked by how oblivious I was to it at 5 or younger (but who wouldn't be?). This movie is not just a great memory of my childhood but a great movie in general. It doesn't have a slow moment, has great acting, and plenty of memorable scenes that I have posted below. Go see it if you never have. It may be 23 years old but it will be good anytime.
Video Clips I'll start with the trailer. Just seems fair.
So how does the search start for his "Queen to be"? Not gracefully for sure, haha.
No better way to pick up a woman than with a new haircut. And no better haircut than the Jheri Curl then. But you gotta put some product in it. So why not let your "Soul Glo"?
And of course, gotta put a Barbershop scene. This is NSFW so plug in the headphones or if you aren't at home...and if at home, earmuff the kids. Look for Cuba Gooding Jr. cameo. And apologies to those who know this scene like I do for the video cutting short right before maybe the best part. ("F-You, F-You and F-You. Who's next")
Memorable Quotes:
Randy Watson:
Give a hand to my band, Sexual Chocolate.
Reverend Brown:
Girl, you look so good, someone ought to put you on a plate and sop you up with a biscuit.
Oha:
[singing] She's your Queen-to-be. A Queen-to-be
forever. A Queen who'll do whatever his highness desires. She's your
Queen-to-be. A vision of perfection. An object of affection to quench
your royal fire. Completely free from infection. To be used at your
discretion. Waiting only for your direction. Your Queen-to-be.
16. Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004) Starring Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber
Very few movies are quotables. Well, let me rephrase that. Very few movies are quotable from start to finish. Well, Dodgeball is one of those movies. In the 7 years since I've seen this movie, I still quote this movie. Whether it be Ben Stiller's character White Goodman or Jason Bateman's character color commentator Pepper, this movie will forever be one of my favorites.
No need to even go over the plot of this movie. Nearly everyone I know has seen this movie. And not just once, but multiple times because each and every time you see it, you are entertained. yes, you know what's coming, but it doesn't even matter because you are guaranteed to laugh. As you probably have noticed through the countdown, I love a good underdog story. And while this movie is one of those, that's not the reason I like it. In fact, that has nothing to do with it. No, the reason I like this movie is simply because of th comedy and the cast of characters.
Just think about it. You have your straight-laced, normal guy in Peter (Vince Vaughn), who is just looking to keep his gym open in any way. You have Kate (Christin Taylor), the lady from the bank who falls in love with the rag-tag group with the huge dream. That rag-tag group includes the likes of a skinny, unpopular teenager (Justin Long), an unathletic but ambitious big man (Stephen Root from "Office Space"), a Black guy who talks a good game but can't back it up (Chris Williams), and of course, a guys who thinks he is a pirate (Alan Tudyk). Of course, you can't forget Rip Torn as Patches O'Hoolihan who with his unique teaching style and foul language provides some of the best laughs in the movie.
Ben Stiller steals the show as he usually does in movies he stars in though. His character is stupid and cocky (shocking I know) and has no problem flaunting either of those characteristics. His lines are downright hilarious and his demeanor is well, hilarious too. His courtship of Kate cracks me up and his mannerisms make for laughs even when he's not speaking.
The actual Dodgeball scenes are short but stupendous. In fact, because they are so short, the movie moves faster than most sports movies. The action is quick, allowing us not to dwell on the inevitable (the two rivals facing each other) but instead, getting more great comedy from Stiller, Vaughn, and the dodgeball announcers Bateman and Gary Cole. The variety of characters allows you to root for a little bit of everything and allows each one of them to be a hero at one point or another. The way they rally together is inspiring, even for a comedy. It's just really hard not to enjoy this movie. If you like funny, memorable scenes and characters that are a bit out of the nor,, you have to like this movie. Maybe I ranked this movie too high but for the amount of times I have seen this movie and the amount of times I quote it, it clearly deserves a spot in the top 20.
Video Clips
A movie this funny has to have a funny trailer right? Of course...
The next clip is the best of Patches O'Hoolihan. I forgot how funny he actually was until this little mash-up.
And of course, gotta have the best of Cotton and Pepper calling all the action on ESPN 8, the Ocho.
Memorable Quotes:
Lance Armstrong:
Quit? You know, once I was thinking about quitting when I was diagnosed
with brain, lung and testicular cancer, all at the same time. But with
the love and support of my friends and family, I got back on the bike
and I won the Tour de France five times in a row. But I'm sure you have a
good reason to quit. So what are you dying from that's keeping you from
the finals?
Cotton McKnight:
I'm being told that Average Joe's does not have enough players and will be forfeiting the championship match.
Pepper Brooks:
It's a bold strategy, Cotton. Let's see if it pays off for 'em.
Cotton McKnight:
We haven't seen Average Joe's yet. They haven't made it to the court. It could be a psychological ploy, or something worse.
Pepper Brooks:
They're definitely not on the court, Cotton. Their absence is noticeable.
So there you have it. My latest 5 movies. Just 15 more to go and I promise you, the next 5 take a bit more of a dramatic turn. Hey, make sure you read Luke's post of his movies 16-20. It's just the right thing to do.
7. The Departed (2006)
