My Favorite Movies

The greatest motion picture ever made. A truly cinematic experience. The more you see it, the more you see in it. Kubrick transcended all other science fiction films. There is nothing else like 2001. It is the story of the evolution of mankind. Talk about ambitious!

A tragic figure finds redemption. If there's hope for him, there's hope for humanity. Scorsese made his most poetic film in stunning black and white with the intention of never making another film again. He put everything he had into it. As did De Niro. The results are so powerful, the viewer truly feels as if they are intruding in on these character's lives.

The greatest psychologically perverse love story (which says a great deal more about me than the film). Hitckcock's most personal and artistic film also contains my favorite film score.

I find it difficult to come up with another film that matches the sheer beauty of its images - truly a visually immaculate masterpiece. The intelligent and eloquent script is endlessly fascinating. The score and sound design envelope the viewer in their rapture. Roy Batty's demise ranks as the most tender death scene on screen. A definitive cinematic experience. (I've had more viewings of this film than any other.)

A true cinematic experience that astonishes both sight and sound. The finest war film ever made has only improved with age. It ranks among the most visually stunning film experiences I've ever had. The journey up the river mirrors the exploration of the human soul and it's consistently compelling. Travelling across Man's tortured psyche, animal instincts, carnal desires, confused history and teetering on the thin line between the rational and insane, this film proves to be an undeniable masterpiece. (Not to mention, the sound design is stupendous.) The Redux version, although controversial, enriches an already hugely complex story.

The movie that started it all...for me. Raiders is probably the most entertaining film ever made. Indiana Jones' iconic image will always remain embedded in my childhood memories. What's most remarkable about this incredibly tight script, is that there hasn't been an action film that has topped it since. The action set pieces are rough and seemingly authentic (pre-CGI), beautifully choreographed and edited; all perfectly scored by John Williams' exhilarating music. There's a seriousness to this film that the sequels lack. The later films tried too hard to capture that 'Indy-feeling' and thus they were written with comedy and silly set pieces in mind. What they're forgetting is that the original Raiders script is actually quite mean and very intense. Almost all the humor, came from the actor's performances and subtle directorial choices. In the end, this rare occurrence of perfect escapism, is ultimately a glorious tribute to moviemaking.

An extravagant epic and penetrating character study. Nobody makes motion pictures like David Lean anymore. Truly a jaw-dropping spectacle.

What does it mean to live? Kurosawa's masterpiece. Gentle and profound.

The greatest film about film making. Fellini's classic is a self-referential and layered masterpiece. Surreal, touching, funny and profound.

Disturbing character study. Scorsese's technical prowess is matched by a brilliant performance by De Niro, capturing self-induced loneliness perfectly. Paul Schrader wrote this classic script.

I grew up with Star Wars and this is the most mature and finest SW moment ever. Dark, sophisticated, rich in colours and imagery, strong characters and a dynamite score.

A masterpiece. The 2nd best Star Wars movie. Easily, the darkest and most emotionally intense. A tragedy that perfectly bridges both trilogies. There are a plethora of soon-to-be classic moments. It all culminates with Obi-wan and Anakin dueling amidst lava while Yoda and the Emperor duke it out as the senate crumbles to the ground. Lucas takes us to epic proportions comparable to Greek tragedy and Shakespearean themes. Years from now, this will be the chapter most discussed. A saga for the ages.

Cassavetes most accomplished achievement. Staggeringly honest. Gena Rowlands and Peter Falk are mesmerizing.

Perfect blend of art and entertainment. Three and a half hours and not a boring second. Kurosawa takes his time in establishing every major character. Revolutionary and hugely influential battle scenes. In many respects, an anti-samurai film.

A truly epic masterpiece with the greatest battle scene on screen. Best of the trilogy. The emotional attachment to the characters reaches its zenith as we finally see how it all ends. Yes, it's long but so are the books and the filmmakers have earned the right to give the characters a proper farewell.

Best film of the 90s. Hugely influential and technically brilliant. Addictive to watch.

When the young Vito Corleone makes his first kill, the celebratory images not only commemorate the birth of the Don but also the birth of American capitalism - a genius metaphor. Where the first Godfather was slightly flawed at times, Part II never falters. Complex and in some ways more complete than the original. Any sign of romanticizing the mafia is vanquished with Coppola's brilliant follow-up. How did he and Willis capture these images? The flashbacks alone are among the finest moments in American cinema. Watching the young Don Corleone take his first steps in crime - stealing the rug - while paralleling Michael's much larger choices years later - moving in on a Casino - is sheer brilliance. The times they are indeed changing. The absolute silence of Michael's final solitary moments is tragically unnerving. Once again, the second chapter in a series remains the darkest.

A Zen masterpiece on war. Malik has returned with such profound perspective and insight. The viewer gets three movies in one. First, it's a riveting story with elements of suspense and intense action revolving around "seizing a bunker." Second, there's such a collection of strong actors and characters that linger with you long after the film is over. The unconventional narration helps identify emotionally with each soldier. Third, Malick takes us on an odyssey for the ages that is both meditative, spiritual and aesthetically beautiful. From man to nature to animals, we are constantly reminded of beauty and horror co-existing. After my fifth viewing, the film still feels fresher that most everything else in recent memory. Ultimately, this is a strong contender for the greatest war film ever made.

Challenging and profound. Revolutionized cinema. Antonioni created his own film language with this masterpiece. Many regard this as the first "modern" movie. All hail Monica Vitti!

Kurosawa's most epic masterpiece. Gloriously tragic. His crowning achievement could only have been made at his ripe old age, bringing infinite wisdom to the story.

The finest film I had seen in over ten years. Exquisitely and achingly beautiful. Tony and Maggie are perfect together.

A minimalist exploration of the human psyche. Bergman's supreme masterpiece. Could possibly be the highest level of art in cinema. There's a reason why Bergman's considered the greatest screenwriter of all time.

Stark, religious, physically and emotionally draining. Tarkovsky's crowning achievement on an astonishing career. Truly masterful filmmaking.

If I could give it six stars, I would. When was the last time you can recall a summer blockbuster/popcorn picture, based on a comic book, create so much applause? Box office through the roof, hardcore fans more than satisfied, critics raving and average viewers blown away. This truly is a phenomenon.

Nolan approaches the subject matter with such sophistication and intelligence. It's an uncompromisingly dark vision that asks the viewer to pay close attention. The script borrows from '70s crime dramas, where intricate plot details are filled with set-ups and pay-offs. Gone is the comic book feeling, which is replaced with a harsh reality and a plausible storyline. The Dark Knight succeeds on multiple levels; in particular, the various thematic elements are not exclusive to the dramatic sequences. Thankfully, the action moments are integral to the substance of the film. There isn't a single moment where we can shut off our brain. It's a riveting experience both viscerally and intellectually.

Heath Ledger's Joker is a frightening and scene-stealing transformation. It is, quite possibly, the greatest representation of this maniacal character in the entire history of the Batman comic series. His point of view is so clearly realized that we almost agree with his madness. The intense tone of the film is matched by the staggering score. Under normal circumstances, Two-Face would receive tremendous acclaim. The development to his character is outstanding. Also, Commissioner Gordon is finally attributed his worthy attention. Ultimately, the poetry of this very serious and layered masterpiece, is that this is the right film at the right time. What's at stake? The soul of Gotham city. The fundamental questions this film raises are both crucial and profound. "When the Truth becomes Legend, print the Legend." In this film, audiences receive both.

Powell & Pressburger's greatest achievement. Glorious photography and passionate storytelling. The age-old dilemma of art versus love life has rarely been explored with such elegance and exhuberance.

The greatest Italian neo-realist film. A boy loses his innocence and a man becomes what he hates most. Simplistic yet universal and timeless. What I find most astonishing about this gentle film is how the most tender and simple images can evoke such a strong emotional response.

It's all in the details. Coppola achieved greatness with this daring gangster film. The mature pacing and dark photography contribute greatly to its legendary status. Brando is riveting and it's also hard to take your eyes off Pacino's transformation. Ultimately, it's top-notch screenwriting with concise set-ups and pay-offs. The first Godfather is more accessible and perhaps a tad bit too simple in comparison to the later sequel but nevertheless it remains highly entertaining.

A Fellini masterpiece. Exuberant and exhilarating. It was both scandalous and thrilling. A smorgasborg of themes reach dizzying heights in this decadent epic dealing with celebrities, paparrazi and debauchery.

The ultimate Hollywood feel-good movie. The single most romantic movie ever made. Perfect on every level.

The greatest film noir, setting a benchmark in screenwriting. A perfect collaboration of artists in their prime.

Among the finest European filmmaking of the 90s. Captivating, intriguing and enigmatic. What a trilogy!

Few films have made such an impact on me in my lifetime. Spiritual and unforgettable. Jeff Bridges' character goes on a existential journey that effects my soul on a deep level. Peter Weir is a filmmaker who always deals in substance.

Complex, politically savvy, entertaining and technically brilliant. Some regard this as the greatest film ever made. I can understand why.

My favorite western. A deconstruction of the western myth among incredible characters and brilliant screenwriting. Eastwood hits a home run with his swan song to the west.

The most classic of all westerns. John Ford has never been better. Archetypal and iconic. John Ford explores this rascist character with thoughtfulness without ever losing sight of the entertaining story.

French New Wave explodes on screen with this exhilarating and fresh revolution. Godard breaks the rules along with his protagonist in what is definitive cinema verite. French cinema at its finest.

Truly disturbing and cringe worthy. De Niro hs never been better and Scorsese has never been so uncompromising. Absolutely brilliant and ahead of its time. A scathing attack on the mediocrity of TV.

Sexuality explored in a unrelenting and brave new way. Brando is astonishing. The film is riveting.

Cassavetes in his most jaw-dropping and revealing portrayal of flawed characters. Unforgettable.

The funniest film I've ever seen. Coens best and smartest work. Ingenuis and totally captivating with the ultimate statement on humbling the artist/writer.

Deeply moving and very heavy. Technically as accomlplished as Citizen Kane. Spielberg proves himself as a "serious" filmmaker and produces his finest work of art.

The greatest musical on screen. Dark and completely engaging. The ultimate anti-conformist film. The songs work effectively as a Greek chorus.

The epitome of 70s filmmaking. Dark and gritty with a documentary approach that inspired a decade's worth of brave new filmmaking.

Masterpiece. A modern-day fairy tale. They sure don't make them like this anymore. The definitive Spielberg movie.

Woody Allen's most cinematic masterpiece. Gloriously shot with stunning music. The romanticized notion on relationships only adds to the charm in this tribute to New York.

As emotionally moving as films get. Untouchable cast with outstanding writing. Nicholson has never been better.

Bergman delves into psychologically disturbing material. The closest he ever came to making a horror film. Avante-garde cinema at its finest.

One of the smartest and funniest films ever made. A movie for a generation of rebellion. Dustin Hoffman was a revelation. Mike Nichols brings major attention to the brilliant mis-en-scene and pioneering soundtrack.

Antonioni's most accessible, yet enigmatic masterpiece. Perfectly capturing swinging London in the 60s. The theme of individuality versus the masses has rarely been explored so brilliantly. Every frame is worthy of being hung in a museum. This is the film that changed Hollywood forever. By being an "art film" that actually made a huge profit, Hollywood studios began to look towards the artists for answers. (It also helped that Blow Up had full-frontal female nudity as well as Jimmy Page rockin' out). The Graduate, Bonnie and Clyde, Easy Rider, etc, followed but it was Antonioni that began that water slide. For the next 15 years, the artist ruled in Hollywood.

One of Bergman's most hypnotic and intriguing cinematic works. 3rd part of the outstanding trilogy on the absence of God. Broke new ground in film history.

This isn't just a movie about men swearing at each other and trying to sell real estate. There is so much subtext in every line of dialogue. First and foremost, it's about power. In fact, you could change the setting to medieval times and the salesmen could be warlords or kings fighting over land instead of selling property. There's also an absence of women in the film, yet their presence is constantly felt. It's as if the feminine nature inherent in men is considered a weakness among these characters. Both women and children represent feelings and compassion, both of which have no place in this particular dog eat dog world. Masculinity is the dominant force which is both powerfully seductive and tragically pathetic. Ultimately, this is Mamet's finest work and the actors are impeccably cast with their verbal fireworks complimented with cinematic flair from Foley. It is the ultimate actor's film and a pen-ultimate adaptation from stage to screen.

Proof that Scorsese has range. Outstanding adaptation with fantastic casting. The form compliments content perfectly.

The epic film for the 90s. Complex and brilliantly made. Scorsese is working on all cylinders.

Cassavetes' final masterpiece. A culmination of his life's work. Filmmaking like this is as rare as a three-eyed cat.

Allen's most mature and accomplished work. Turns all our ideals upside down. At times dark, occasionally hilarious, always intelligent.

Malick does it again. Not just a beautiful love story, but a film about "how to live." Poetic, emotionally devastating, visually sumptuous and exquisitely written.

A dark character study that dares you to empathize with the monster that stands at the heart of this masterpiece. The music perfectly captures the relentless energy of Johnny - he may be smart but it's his loathing of humanity that literally cripples him in the end. The image that does in fact show a bit of tenderness, somehow suits the story and its characters to a tee; Johnny on the floor, sick to his stomach with his ex around his arms. They crouch by the toilet, trying to mend their own shitty relationship (the cleaner sits on the lid) and a cheap wine glass rests, filled with dirty tap water. How romantic! A brilliant image for a brilliant film.

Both emotionally and intellectually captivating. The finest road movie I've come across. This is Wenders' finest hour and it has a poetic and heart-wrenching script from Sam Shephard. The moment where Dean Stanton watches the home video footage with his son is among the most touching scenes in movies. Side note: If you've ever heard Eminem's controversial song, Kim, then you'll know a little bit about the back story of this gem of a picture. Also worth mentioning, Muller's cinematography is hugely influential and stunningly beautiful in a very simplistic manner. The colors alone keep the viewer entranced; but what amazes me the most about this very understated film is how it's completely free from cliche's. What is it about the German's fascination of Americana? The open freeway, the truck stop diners, the neon light motels. Bottom line: If you're a fan of existentialism, then this is the film for you.

It spawned a decade of brave new filmmaking. A double character study that remains as moving today as it did back in '69.

An epic crime masterpiece. De Niro and Pacino face off in this intelligent and flawless accomplishment.

The finest detective thriller ever filmed. But that's just skimming the surface. Kurosawa remains the emperor of cinema. It's remarkable just how much suspense and emotional involvement we get from one room with a few characters. The choreography and character proximities throughout is inspiring. Kurosawa clearly knows how to use the anamorphic lens. The second half/detective story is riveting. The finale transcends the crime genre and makes a bold statement with some of the most amazing imagery ever put to screen. This is the work of a true master.

An epic tale on the story of man and mother nature. Kurosawa's Russian journey through the wilderness of friendship and old age.

Truffaut's autobiographical debut marks the beginning of French New Wave's popularity. Touching, honest and simple. Truffaut was the first to portray children as they really are. His care for humanity shines through in this understated masterpiece.

An American masterpiece. Brando in his prime. Hollywood began its transformation to grittier more realistic filmmaking here.

An excellent and gorgeous love story with a dark heart. Hypnotic and emotionally complex. With a wonderful contribution from composer Michael Nyman.

As disturbing as movies get. Surreal and hilarious. Lynch influenced a generation of filmmakers. His legacy will live on forever in this masterpiece of dreams, nightmares and unforgettable imagery.

A truly epic tale of one man's tragic existence. Elegant, sophisticated and timeless. Leone's masterpiece.

Coens most mature and intelligent script. Sophisticated, poetic and humorous all at the same time. The story is as layered as a house of cards. The perfomances are a joy to watch. What is it about Gabriel Byrne in this role? It fits him like a glove. You gotta love the unifying filmic device of the Fedora. All in all, this film is sheer perfection.

Altman's masterpiece is an anti-western unlike any other. Astonishing photography and genre-bendng writing makes this a one of a kind experience.

Chaplin's swan song to silent cinema. Hilarious, touching and elegant. He makes it all seem so easy and effortless. A true genuis at work.

Perfect storytelling. The ultimate anti-war statement. Renoir makes it all seem so easy.

A sci-fi/horror masterpiece that happens to be a work of art. Flawless on every level. Giger's creation of the alien is genius.

The most cinematic and artistically genius horror film ever made. Forget the ghosts, Kubrick has made a movie about domestic violence within a dysfunctional family. Brilliant performances and soundtrack. In the late 70s, America's divorce rate was at an all-time high. Kubrick taps into our cultural anxiety brilliantly. It's insane just how original The Shining is. Kubrick's pacing and use of space is what sets this masterpiece apart from most horror films. The over-the-top performances totally get under your skin. Nicholson and Duvall are perfectly cast. I saw this movie when I was eight and it scarred me for life.

Classic mythic western. Iconic characters exploring morality and ethics. One of the greats.

Another classic western which remains archetypal and metaphorical. One of the first "real-time" stories with a performance by Gary Cooper that remains timeless. Perfect pacing and tempo with an ironic ending for the ages.

A love story as old as time. Stunningly beautiful and ageless. Simple yet full of depth.

Japanese cinema at its finest. A magical story by the poet of cinema: Mizoguchi. His mastery of images is beyond comprehension.

Superior and much darker than the original. The creation of Golem and the battle of Helm's Deep have gone down in movie history. The extended version is a must. This was the hardest book (of the three) to adapt and the fact that the film doesn't let up is a testament to Jackson's talent.

An epic journey amidst love and war, with intoxicating imagery and impeccable FX. True, the love story ain't the strongest, but the clone wars, asteroid chase and lightsaber duels more than make up for it. Yoda kicking ass is the single most crowd-pleasing moment in the entire saga. Thankfully, Obi-wan is also developed further and Padme looks hotter than ever. The tone of Episode II is far more grown up than the previous chapter. Considering his age, Anakin's arrogance is fitting and appropriate. I also found that the transition of Yoda into a CGI creation did wonders for his character. There's far more depth and complexity in his expressions now (although I love the puppetry work in Empire.) The political intrigue was also appropriate considering the Bush election and 9/11 aftermath. The irony of the Clones fighting on the good guys side is genius. The worst evil always comes from within. This Star Wars chapter is one of the most continuously watchable entries for me. It's sweeping scope has a strong operatic flair that draws me in every time. (The IMAX experience was overwhelmingly exciting.)

Quintessential Hitchock. The story is so perfectly layered and Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman are heartbreaking to watch.

The most beloved of all musicals. A truly euphoric story of Hollywood moviemaking.

British Film Noir at its finest. Captivating, inticing and beautifully shot in black and white photography. Orson Welles' cameo remains a highlight.

Hou Hsiao-hsien's masterpiece. Mesmerizing, entrancing and totally unforgettable. Taiwanese cinema reached a zenith in the 90s and HHH remains at the forefront.

Perfect escapism on every level. The first major blockbuster. Flawless, intense and terrifically entertaining.

PT Anderson's most mature and accomplished masterpiece. A cross between Malick's Days of Heaven and Welles' Citizen Kane, with a bit of a John Ford Western thrown in. Which is saying a lot. Completely cinematic with a haunting score by Radiohead's Greenwood. The relationship between Day Lewis' character (in a riveting performance) and his son, is what is most captivating about this elegantly dark and timeless story. Anderson has succeeded with the third and most difficult step in the path of the artist: Metaphor. This is filmmaking at its finest.

David Lean's storytelling prowess reaches perfection. Excitement, social commentary and emotion all blend to deliver first rate movie making.

This film is bold, emotionally overwhelming and highly profound. PT Anderson's personal statement is truly admirable and extremely technically accomplished. He has mastered the 2nd step in the path of the artist: taking the tools he learned from imitation and applying them to his own life. "Be nice to your kids." That's what it's all about.

The greatest film dealing with gay lovers. Universal, heartbreaking and funny. Instead of relying heavily on plot, Kar-wai gives us a series of simple, honest, and painful moments that ring true and create a mosaic of what it's like getting over a destructive relationship. What's wonderfully fresh about this film is how the gay relationship is totally not the point. Anyone who has ever loved and lost and then tried to move on, can totally relate to this film. Certain shots say so much with just a little punctuation and music. The subtext is constantly there, always treating the viewer with utmost respect. It goes without saying that the cinematography is astonishing. Godard's influence is felt and the overall emotional feeling the movie leaves you with, is one of complete and utter acceptance, ironic wisdom, and blissful hope. Perfect cathartic filmmaking.

The breakthrough Woody Allen film that sums up a relationship perfectly. Or rather, the artist's "interpretation" of a relationship. This classic was the film that made audiences perceive Allen in a serious light. Surprising, considering how funny the movie is.

A modern masterpiece. Dark, heavy and brilliant. Fincher creates such a complete world. One of the most influential films of the decade.

Definitive Kubrick. Eerie, unsettling, hypnotic and completely original. Years ahead of film today.

How can one be a true hero in our contemporary times? It's truly remarkable how riveting this film is. In the hands of a lesser filmmaker, it might have come across slightly dull. Right off the bat, it's the emotional attachment we feel for the charactes that keeps us engaged. The obstacles become insanely difficult for both Pacino and Crowe, that we can not help but marvel at their dedication and integrity. Incredible consummate filmmaking. Simply put: Michael Mann at his best and Russell Crowe delivers the performance of his career (even his body language is pitch-perfect.) Lisa Gerrard contributes nicely as well.

Chaplin's ultimate love story. Charming, simple, yet poignant. With the classic open-ending that tugs at the heart. And what a boxing match!

Quintessential Wong Kar-wai. Kinetic, touching and visually imaginative.

A film about hero worship, celebrities and obsessed fanaticism. A revisionist western as profound as Altman's McCabe. The exquisite beauty of the cinematography and score moved me to tears. The cast is impeccable (in particular, the painfully awkward and brilliant performance by Casey Affleck). The voice-over recalls Malick and the languid story structure is free from cliches and utterly poetic. This is a true underrated modern masterpiece.

One does not recall one's life in chronological order. Rather, the past, present, yesterday and today are all interweaved. The many lives of Bob Dylan are beautifully expressed in this experimental bio. As compelling and enigmatic as Dylan himself. The poetry of image and song is where Todd Haynes shines the most and the performances are stellar. In particular, Cate Blanchett's voice impersonation is uncanny. The ghostly image of Dylan at the end, moved me to tears. A masterpiece.

Visually Malick's greatest achievement. The screenplay is also one of the most underrated masterworks. True visual storytelling. I particularly love the way Malick focuses so much attention on animals and nature - a true Buddhist. In the end the film is about how we are all human - flaws and all. Devils and angels. Gorgeous cinema at its finest!

The greatest screwball comedy ever made. The actors are perfectly cast. Joyful and zany. George Cukor knew how to captivate audiences.

Classic western dealing with the archetypal Father and Son story. Masterful. A great performance from John Wayne too.

An unforgettable anti-Hollywood musical delving into the dark world of show business. Judy Garland bears her soul. Outstanding stuff.

One of the most underrated epics. The 5 hour cut is mind-blowing. A truly unique experience of sight and sound. It's actually a trilogy!

Scariest film ever made. Outstanding sound design. A story that leaves you with a feeling that haunts and provokes your deepest fears. Makes a very convincing argument for the possibility of true evil in this world.

William Wyler's masterpiece. An epic story with epochal morals and mythic ethics. Like many of the classics, it's the story about the end of the west and the coming of society. Gregory Peck's star charisma is a joy to behold.

Another classic John Ford western. Truly mythic with iconic images. The finest telling of the Wyatt Earp story. Henry Fonda epitomizes nobility.

The greatest prison break film ever made. Bresson's attention to detail is mind-blowing. There's also a spiritual dimension to his films that is totally captivating. Not to mention, his brilliant sound design!

The screwiest screwball comedy there is. One of the most unique "true love" stories. Seymour Cassel and Rowlands are truly remarkable.

A timeless, grim, hopeful and archetypal story with a dark turn of events. At first glance it appears to be one of Bergman's more overtly religious films. However, upon closer inspection it deals more directly with guilt and shame. Max Von Sydow is amazing in his portrayal of a Father trying to control his anger. Nykvist's cinematography is shimmering in its simplistic beauty. The performances are at times theatrical but always convincing. Especially considering when it was made, it's astonishing how unflinching the film is. (It was later remade into Last House on the Left.) Another stroke of genius was Bergman's choice to have the majority of the film done in silence. Screenwriters take note! In the end, it remains one of the most emotionally moving and deceivingly simple Bergman films out there.

A tender, erotic and sensual masterwork. The performances are top-notch and Kaufman makes brilliant use of silences and subtle sound design. Outstanding contribution from Murch and Nykvist. European in its sensibility, this flawless, emotionally exquisite story, remains one of cinema's best kept secrets.

An excellent dissection of three generations of women. There's a mysteriousness to this film that makes it continuously watchable. Although, highly cinematic, the most powerful moments are where characters speak and behave with one another. There are at least half a dozen astonishing moments that all actors should study. The script is brilliant, not to mention the score by Phillip Glass.

The original has a magic all its own. The most popular film of all time evokes such nostalgia and brings us on a truly ecstatic odyssey. I too grew up with Star Wars and it changed my life forever.

An acid western unlike anything else. The outstanding cast is lead by the brilliantly dumb Johnny Depp. The stunning black and white cinematography is complimented nicely by Neil Young's haunting score. This film only gets better with each viewing. Strangely, it's very moving in its existential approach. The deer shot is touching, the first nations message is admirable and the ending is a fine homage to On the Waterfront. Ultimately, this is Jim Jarmusch's masterpiece.

A Powell & Pressburger masterpiece. Bold sexuality, luscious color photography, operatic and daring story. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Godard's masterful statement on filmmaking. Brigitte Bardot is to die for. And that's the point. Fritz Lang also contributes. A brilliant approach to scoring with the help of Georges Delerue. Scorsese borrowed the music for Casino.

The greatest James Bond movie ever made. Ultra serious, intense, with a strong script and a great cast. Bond is back and I've haven't been this excited about the character in eons. Surprisingly, Daniel Craig is the best Bond since Connery. It also contains the most stunning action scene in the franchise: the opening chase on foot. Simply jaw-dropping.

Cronenberg's most twisted masterpiece. Yet, Howard Shore's score tells us what the heart of the picture is all about: a tragic love story between two Brothers.

Allen's most underrated film. Beautiful black and white photography and surreal imagery that is clearly a tribute to Fellini's 8 1/2. Woody Allen manages to be both artistic, romantic, funny and melancholy. Allen often considers this among his best films and time is most definitely on its side. With each passing year, this film becomes deeper and more poignant. It's also his most experimental film to date.

The bitchiest film ever made. An outstanding script with dynamite performances. It's a brutal attack on Hollywood and the fanaticism with celebrities. Timeless and way ahead of its time. It makes a nice companion piece to both A Star is Born (with Garland) and Scorsese's King of Comedy.

Billy Wilder's masterpiece. Dark, funny and tragic. Wilder dissects the "trappings" of Hollywood with perfection. Ironically, it never seems to get old.

Kiarostami's final chapter in his self-reflective trilogy. Beautiful storytelling with tender and engaging characters.

Pitch perfect black comedy. Coen brothers knock another one out of the park. The sparse location is matched by the vacant lead characters. Brilliant stuff. Unsettling, yet surprisingly profound and humane. It's a dual protagonist story where both Jerry and Marge are in denial and they're world views are shattered. Jerry by the consequences of his actions and Marge by the realization that Mikey lied to her in the restaurant (leading to her doubting Jerry.) Even the brilliant score sums up the sweet banality of the small town with an extreme impending violence that explodes under the surface (much like Taxi Driver.) The repressed societies are often the most violent. Clearly, the non-communicative Swede is the most frightening character in the film. Fargo is the kind of film that is unsettling, yet gets better with each viewing. Every scene is brilliantly hilarious.

A one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Iranian films blew away audiences in the 90s and Kiarostami was at the forefront of that movement. Close-up is his most subversive and layered picture. It blows my mind.

JJ Abrams nailed it. What is it with this generation of filmmakers rejuvenating old franchises? From Batman to James Bond and now Star Trek, these prequels have all gotten it RIGHT. Their attention to story and character is what's most impressive. Star Trek has the perfect blend of both action and drama. The actors perfectly pay tribute to their well-known classic characters and fittingly Kirk and Spock are the two that shine the strongest. Never mind the impeccable special effects and stirring new score, this film had me in tears within the first ten minutes. And I'm not even a Trekkie! There are so many wonderful lines throughout the script and the tension never lets up for a second. Plus, the film has countless self-reverential moments that never seem to come across contrived. They work totally organic to the story. This Trek film is also, hands down, the most action packed of the series. Lastly, what's most impressive is how the writers managed to come up with not just a prequel but an actual sequel to the original series. Instead of just trying to re-start the franchise by ignoring everything that's come before; they've continued the series in a new direction, while enhancing what's come before. Truly brilliant.

If you want to see where Magnolia got a lot of its inspiration, then look no further. Altman's epic film brings together multiple lives in LA and shows just how unstable we all are. Brave performances across the board make this one unforgettable and disturbing movie. This was undoubtedly Altman's comeback, as well as the beginning of a new renaissance in independent filmmaking. The genius of the film lies in the way the multiple stories interweave. There's no real conclusion and that's the point - life goes on. It's also a wonderful love poem to the blues. Lovesick jazz comes across like a Greek chorus and both comedy and horror manage to co-exist. And any film with Tom Waits has got to be awesome!

A remarkable journey through sight and sound. A timeless and exhilarating experience. Phillip Glass' music is minimalism at its most mind-blowing. The sequels are also spell-binding.

The finest fantasy trilogy of its kind. The original fleshes out the characters and sets us up for a remarkable journey. There are so many ways they could have screwed up this epic adaptation, instead Peter Jackson and his team accomplish a miracle.

The greatest animated film ever made. Incredibly bold of Disney studios to attempt Victor Hugo's novel. They have never gotten this dark and mature since. It also happens to be their last definitive musical.

Another brilliant Taiwanese achievement. Haunting, gorgeous, heartbreaking and captivating. Tian is among the finest filmmakers working today and this remake may very well be his most moving cinematic experience. True VISUAL storytelling.

Winner of the Palm D'or, this Greek masterpiece helps answer the question, what does it mean to live? Visual hypnotic with an exquisite score, this existential experience lingers in one's mind long after the film is over.

One of Allen's most hilarious and brilliant films. The cinema verite style was a challenge for him, but he keeps things grounded with fully-developed characters, clearly inspired by Bergman's Scenes from a Marriage. It is amazing how well it holds up after 15 years. In many respects, this marked the end of the masterpieces for Allen.

Despite the cheesy title, this film is absolutely superb and completely original. Robert Mitchum gives us one of his greatest performances and simply put: it's the STORY that is so remarkable. Ray's masterpiece.

Tarkovsky's 2nd film is an epic achievement deserving of a grand master filmmaker. What imagery! Where did he get such talent? It reminds me of the story of the young kid who builds the bell...

An astonishing masterful film from the Powell & Pressburger team. Wildy outrageous and inventive in its use of colour and black and white photography. Truly cinematic and original. There's nothing else like an Archers' movie.

This film should be put into a time capsule and sent off to outerspace. Alien life-forms can learn so much about American culture from this masterpiece. Impeccably directed by Sidney Lumet - his finest hour. It's no coincidence that Al Pacino has also never been better. You can't take your eyes off him. American cinema has never been so good as in the 70s. It's films like these that illustrate that.

There are very few films that audiences remember with such respect, fondness and emotional resonance. It's one of the most beautifully told stories with unforgettable characters and gorgeous black and white cinematography. Even Bernstein's score deserves separate acclaim. Although, it's Gregory Peck that stands out the most in our memories. One of the all-time greatest roles, played with such grace, intelligence and humility.

Another masterpiece by Mizoguchi that is criminally under-seen. The story is gripping and the characters completely empathetic. Each scene seems to begin at just the right moment and somehow end with an inevitability that is both poetic and profound.

If you can get past the long running time and occasional overt sentimentality, this is one of the most rewarding films in Kurosawa's canon. This marked the end of an era for him; his final film with Toho company, his last collaboration with the great Mifune, his final black-and-white film (his second last film in cinemascope) and most importantly, his swan song to optimism. After this remarkably hopeful story, Kurosawa's world view would turn much darker. Financial failure, Hollywood blacklisting, extreme illness and attempted suicide would follow. With that in mind, Red Beard remains an extremely emotional experience for me. The sheer humility and supreme goodness of this film is so utterly inspiring. It's an honourable movie, with many memorable characters, photographed in a way that makes every mis-en-scene look like a painting. Clearly, Kurosawa was in his prime and no other film in his body of work holds melancholy and hope in such equal measure.

A character study that somehow manages to feel both modern and relevant, yet classically orchestrated during the final years of Hollywood's golden age. Paul Newman gives the performance of his career (and that's saying a helluva lot) and the black and white cinematography is timelessly beautiful. The entire first act is one epic pool game and it's a movie in itself. The rest is equally brilliant, melancholy and filled with wisdom. A true classic.

Peter Bogdanovich's knowledge of old movies payed off with this remarkable and timeless classic. It seems to have appeared as if from a different time and place. How he achieved this with his first film, is awe-inspiring. The mature and provocative approach to the story is highly intriguing. Beautifully shot in black-and-white. Even back in '71, it was clear this was an instant 70s classic.

A Sidney Lumet masterpiece. Paul Newman is unforgettable and the script by David Mamet is awe-inspiring. Even the cinematography has such richness. A first-rate character study and easily one of the finest of the decade.

Cassavetes' first masterpiece. Incredibly groundbreaking for its time. True hysteria captured with an uflinching eye.

The definitive Cassavetes film. His attempt at film noir. Brilliant stuff. To hell with "slick" moviemaking!

One of the all-time greatest romantic movies. Watching Hepburn and Gregory Peck run around Rome together is a complete and utter joy. Wyler certainly knows the secret to memorable love stories.

Bresson's final masterpiece gets inside the head of a criminal. Every image is worthy of the greatest attention. A true master filmmaker.

The closest I've seen a film come to the experience of daydreaming. Hypnotic, enigmatic and cryptic.

Another wonderfully inventive story from the Archers. Whimsical, passionate and at times outrageous. Their best pictures borderline delirious. And what is it with their colorful lead characters? One of the most surprising elements of this charming film is how incredibly fast-paced it is for its time. All in all, one of my favs.

Batman finally done correctly! Superb story and powerful characters help make this film the finest comic book movie to hit the screen. The re-occuring theme of Fear keeps things intriguing and the remarkable cast helps firmly place this story in reality. The score is deceivingly simple and all-together riveting. Apart from the irritating fast cutting, it was a joy to watch the Batman mythos get re-born. Thank God they didn't screw up the villians like they normally do.

One of Scorsese's most accessible but no less brilliant films. Apparently, Marty's inspiration was the Greek myth about Icarus who flew too close to the sun - the fake wings melted and he plummeted down to Earth. Great analogy for Hughes. Like many ambitious geniuses, for anyone to reach such heights (literally) a price must be payed. Scorsese handles the epic and the intimate with equal measure. The film is perfectly balanced and astonishingly varied. It's a story that spans decades and Scorsese matches each era with a different cinematic style. It's all in the details. Like Kundun, I love the opening credit. There's something about the elegant simplicity of the image that somehow captures what's to come. Also, De Caprio delivers an outstanding performance which definitely deserves mention. Then of course, the always wonderful Blanchett gives us her Oscar-deserving take on Hepburn. All in all, a masterful film on every level.

Easily one of the funniest films ever made. Hysterical premise with incredible actors. Billy Wilder's Sunset Blvd may be his masterpiece, but this film takes the cake as far as comedy goes.

As nail-biting as cinema gets. Totally gripping and suspenseful for its entire running time (a remarkable achievement considering its length). It is amazing how the film feels epic, yet we hardly leave the submarine. Although, the few moments where we do venture outside are unforgettable. Also, the characters are so well written with such believable conflicts. Lastly, the sound design is also well worth applauding. All around, consummate fimmaking.

The defenitive feminist statement in Mizoguchi's career. A classic character study with tragic and emotionally devastating results.

Poetic, bold, haunting and profound. It's a combination of Bonnie and Clyde and Natural Born Killers but with far more elegance. Perfectly cast and impeccably written. And this was his first film! Malick excels in understatement.

Carpenter's one truly GREAT movie. The ultimate monster movie. Bleak and brilliant effects. Very Hitchcockian supense.

Another heart-wrenching love story. Very dramatic and at times almost operatic. The performances are stunning (Laurence Olivier commands attention) and Wyler's direction is assured and accomplished.

Frank Capra's greatest and most romantic film. The quintessential road movie. Gable and Colbert were the definition of chemistry.

The best Cassavetes film not made by Cassavetes. Elaine May directed this masterpiece film noir. Cassavetes stars (and co-wrote) along with Peter Falk. May is one of the most underrated filmmakers of the 70s.

One of the most underrated and forgotten masterpieces of the 80s. Lumet crafted a truly epic and thorough exploration of police corruption. Not surprisingly, the FBI contributed to the film's "forgotten" reputation. The 'Powers that Be' felt that it was too accurate a portrayal to be seen by the mass audience. Simply put: this is Lumet's Godfather.

The great Elia Kazan had a talented wife who made one movie. This masterpiece. Not only does it equal her husband's legendary work, it pushes the frontier of reality to a level Kazan only hinted at. Wanda is an astonishing character study that is one of cinema's best kept secrets. Not only did Barbara Loden write and direct this film, she stars in it, as well! A true auteur. Cassavetes sighted this film as one of his all-time favorites.

A legendary film with a performance from Brando that still astonishes. He was like some unreal and sexual alien that burst onscreen. There was nobody else like him. Naturally, the writing is pitch-perfect and Vivian Leigh more than holds her own next to the beast of a genius that is Brando. Needless to say, the story is a masterpiece.

This is a classic character study that is both touching and comedic. Sad, yet poignant. Giuletta Masina delivers a powerful performance as a prostitute. (She was Fellini's wife.)

Elegant, touching, honest and as profound as some of the finest works of fiction. Truffaut explores these characters lives with wisdom, affection and bittersweet melancholy.

The 2nd chapter in Kiarostami's masterful trilogy on filmmaking. At times tragic, other times joyful, interest everywhere.

A powerful, bold and enigmatic feminist film. This is what true independent cinema is really all about. Julianne Moore gives what is perhaps the performance of the decade. The absolute brilliance of the story is how Haynes doesn't presume to have the answers. His humility shines through and the various interpretations keep this masterful art film extremely relevant. Creepy, haunting, sad and highly complex. Antonioni would be proud.

Yet another simple but profoundly moving tale from De Sica. How does he make it all seem so easy? An old Man and his little Dog, struggling to get by during hard times. It's artful but completely accessible (not an easy balancing act.)

Part III often gets a bad wrap but I think this is clearly unfair. True, it is not as good as the first two, but it remains a great and worthy film nonetheless. Pacino is remarkably sad and world weary. (This is where the King Lear influence is most pronounced.) Repentance is the theme here. From Michael's confession, to his son's stage debut, from the church's dealings with the Godfather, to the disguised and lethal assassin, everything is intertwined with religion. The film is both operatic and sweepingly tragic with Coppola making his most personal mark in this final entry. It's interesting how Michael Corleone's and Coppola's sacrifice are slightly mirrored. In both cases, Sofia Coppola is the price that's paid. Ultimately, the first two entries help elevate this film, with the saga reaching its satisfying conclusion. Simply put: the Godfather trilogy remains among the top five finest trilogies ever made.