My Favorite Movies


  revalismith's Rating My Rating
1
Mamma Mia! (2008,  PG-13)
Mamma Mia! 5.0 Stars
I have never had so much fun in a movie theatre in my whole life! (Well, there was that one time . . . but we won't get into that. *wink*)

I went to see this film on a Monday afternoon. It was packed yet almost everyone in the theatre was singing, dancing in their seats, and clapping along. My experience aside, the movie itself felt like a two-hour long party. I didn't notice the time pass at all and it felt like it was over in a blink. The characters were having a ball and so was I.

I have never ever ever gotten so into a movie before. I well imagine that this is what fans of Rocky Horror Picture Show felt like when it first came out.

I don't really know how to describe the joy that this film brought to my day! It had everything. I laughed lots, cried a little, and chair-danced my tail off! Who knew that ABBA had such mystical powers? Who knew that Pierce Brosnan's campy singing could give me chills?

Seriously though, I left that theatre with a grin on my face that has still not disappeared. I've never been one to re-watch movies more than twice but I will be on pins and needles until Mamma Mia! is released to video so that I can set "repeat all" on my DVD player for all eterenity.

I am the dancing queen!
Click to Rate
2
Closer (2004,  R)
Closer 5.0 Stars
I literally watched this twice in a row and I'm pretty sure it's my new favourite film. This is captivating. And it prominently features, Damien Rice's song The Blower's Daughter which is amazing. The acting is top notch and the story interesting and I'll probably be reviewing the symbolism for days to come.
Click to Rate
3
About a Boy (2002,  PG-13)
About a Boy 5.0 Stars
This is my favourite movie bar none. For some reason I really connect with Hugh Grant's character. It's a search for meaning in life, carried out in an entirely British fashion. Based on a great novel with a great soundtrack from Badly Drawn Boy, this film is, as the cover says, irresistable.
Click to Rate
4
The Beach (2000,  R)
The Beach 5.0 Stars
Why do I love The Beach? I love it because it is interesting, because it is magical. It is not simply a retelling of Lord of the Flies, in my opinion. Instead it is a sociological examination of generation x.
Click to Rate
5
Amelie (Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain) (2001,  R)
Amelie (Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain) 5.0 Stars
I literally loved every single thing about this movie. EVERYTHING! I loved the use of cartoonish ambience, the presence of Tautou, the quirkiness of the characters, the garden gnomes - EVERYTHING! I literally did not want to stop watching and was really disappointed when it came to an end.
Click to Rate
6
Bowling for Columbine (2002,  R)
Bowling for Columbine 5.0 Stars
This movie changed the way that documentaries are made. For me, it articulated what I had been trying to say for years. I could watch it over and over and I have.
Click to Rate
7
A Very Long Engagement (2004,  R)
A Very Long Engagement 5.0 Stars
This isn't a movie; it's a film. It presents an amazing story that perhaps only the likes of Tautou could bring to life. As a whole, it is refreshing and wonderful but the final scene alone is reason enough to watch. It might just be the most well done ending to a film to date. (And yes, there were tears.)
Click to Rate
8
Rocky (1976,  PG)
Rocky 5.0 Stars
Let me start by saying that before I watched this movie I didn't get boxing at all. And I don't think I really got Sylvester Stalone either. I was kind of like Adrianne. But by the end of this movie, I sort of got both - and that's a great accomplishment!

This is a traditional story of the underdog. However, it is not the least bit manipulative of the audience. Instead, it is lovely and understated.

I found myself cheering, "Rocky! Rocky!" along with everyone else during the big fight. I had a lot of emotion invested into that man. Now, that's some great filmaking!

I was most impressed by the acting. It is subtle but made the characters come to life in a real, wonderful way.

It's such a simple little film but it has become one of my favourites. I am shocked that I actually liked it, let alone loved it more than 99% of all other movies I had ever seen.

It's easy to see why this is a classic. Don't overlook it or mislabel it as a testosterone-filled man movie. Absolutely don't miss it.
Click to Rate
9
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975,  PG)
Monty Python and the Holy Grail 5.0 Stars
This is a perfect example of why the British rule at comedy. This could not be funny if it weren't British. This will forever be a staple in my arsenal of cultural references.
Click to Rate
10
Say Anything... (1989,  PG-13)
Say Anything... 5.0 Stars
This is romantic and pathetically real in parts. I don't know how else to explain it.
Click to Rate
11
High Fidelity (2000,  R)
High Fidelity 5.0 Stars
John Cusack AND Jack "Fucking" Black plus it's about an audiophile AND love. I commissioned this movie.
Click to Rate
12
Match Point (2005,  R)
Match Point 5.0 Stars
If this is a piece of Woody Allen than I have to look more into this guy. This is one of the only movies that I would truly recommend to literally everyone I know.
Click to Rate
13
On Golden Pond (1981,  PG)
On Golden Pond 5.0 Stars
If you want an interesting look at relationship, give this film a watch. The chemistry between all the actors, but particularly Hepburn and Henry Fonda, was fantastic. Without it, the film would have been a total flop. But that chemistry drives the film and makes it a great success. Like most plays that are adapted to film, this story could be interpreted and analyzed for days. I particularly liked the dual theme of an old man dealing with aging and death and a young man dealing with coming of age. I identified strongly with Jane Fonda's character, especially her negative attributes. Funny, moving, simply charming! I wish that I could visit Golden Pond.
Click to Rate
14
Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) (1951,  Unrated)
Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) 5.0 Stars
I'm pretty sure this is my new favourite Christmas movie. Alongside It's A Wonderful Life, this is all you need to watch at Christmas time. What is there to say about this movie that hasn't already been said? As everyone says, Sims is absolutely brillant as Scrooge. He really makes the film.
Click to Rate
15
Hairspray (2007) (2007,  PG)
Hairspray (2007) 5.0 Stars
Oddly, this was one of the best musicals I had ever seen. It was so much fun! Perhaps the only John Travolta movie I ever enjoyed.
Click to Rate
16
The Station Agent (2003,  R)
The Station Agent 5.0 Stars
This movie is truly a pleasant surprise. You go in not really knowing what to expect from the independent vibe it projects and come out feeling really fulfilled in having watched the story of three friends subtlely unfold.
Click to Rate
17
The Break-Up (2006,  PG-13)
The Break-Up 5.0 Stars
The Break-Up was able to do several things that other films fall short on. One of those things with the complete discomfort that the audience feels as it watches the two main characters in conflict. It is almost so painful, feeling their frustration, hurt and anger, that you want to stop watching. I was having major flashbacks. I think the actors where cast extremely well and the supporting roles were crucial to making this work. I guarentee that a remake of this movie will appear in 30 years time, for better or for worse.
Click to Rate
18
Finding Nemo (2003,  G)
Finding Nemo 5.0 Stars
I had so much fun watching this movie.
Click to Rate
19
Beauty and the Beast (1991,  G)
Beauty and the Beast 5.0 Stars
The best animated romance I have ever seen.
Click to Rate
20
Forrest Gump (1994,  PG-13)
Forrest Gump 5.0 Stars
It's difficult to decide what to say about this film. It can be discussed on so many levels and from so many perspectives. You discover new things each time you watch it, and I have watched it plenty.
Click to Rate
21
The Notebook (2004,  PG-13)
The Notebook 5.0 Stars
You want to make fun of people who like this movie until you actually see it. It's all about the love story being told. The actors don't matter. The scenery isn't important. I would say that this will become a classic in no time. And the lead female character is totally Ali.
Click to Rate
22
Casablanca (1942,  Unrated)
Casablanca 5.0 Stars
My love affair with Humphrey Bogart has officially begun. Not only is this a classic film but it's got spunk. After watching this be sure to check out Carrotblanca for further enjoyment.
Click to Rate
23
One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975,  R)
One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest 5.0 Stars
This is a portrayal of my favourite book. I could go on about the completely different perspective it takes, which I think is good, but I won't. I'll just say that this is Jack Nicholson at his finest. If you want a movie that takes you along for the ride, this is a good one.
Click to Rate
24
Alive (1993,  R)
Alive 5.0 Stars
This is an absolutely amazing true story with absolutely amazing acting.
Click to Rate
25
Jerry Maguire (1996,  R)
Jerry Maguire 5.0 Stars
I entered into the world of a man who learns to love and actually understood him. And that kid has to be the cutest kid in movie history.
Click to Rate
26
Before Sunrise (1995,  R)
Before Sunrise 5.0 Stars
This movie is all about dialogue. That's all it is. Walking and talking and it's amazing. The energy between the characters shines through. It leaves you wanting more....and convienently there's a sequel.
Click to Rate
27
Shrek (2001,  PG)
Shrek 5.0 Stars
This gives Disney a run for its money. Definitely the best non-Disney animated feature of all time.
Click to Rate
28
Juno (2007,  PG-13)
Juno 5.0 Stars
This is exactly the type of movie that I love. A film with an independent feel, that has romantic elements that are as far from a stereotypical romantic comedy as one would like. Ellen Page and Michael Cera are two of my favourites and the soundtrack is fantastic, fun, and beyond appropriate for the film! I am so glad that this it the first film of 2008 that I've seen!
Click to Rate
29
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (2005,  PG)
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe 5.0 Stars
This is a fantastic film (and I am quite surprised to say so). For some reason, I was hesitant on watching the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe even though I saw it in play-format and loved it and quite admire C.S. Lewis. I think I was afraid that the imagination of the story would translate the way that the story of Harry Potter did on screen (which was poorly, in my opinion.) But, I was delightfully mistaken. This film truly does capture the imagination of the children that C.S. Lewis first wrote about.


Also, the allegorical aspect is fascinating. I especially enjoyed Aslan's ressurection scene. The cinematography was beautiful. Basically, the whole movie filled me with wonder.


The only caution that I would give around this movie is that, while thought to be a "children's movie", it is not. I think it would frighten younger children and is actually quite violent. Not only that but the Queen is quite merciless and represents complete evil. There's nothing wrong with such a character but, like I said, smaller children might not like it.
Click to Rate
30
Shaft (1971,  R)
Shaft 5.0 Stars
Shaft is great because it mocks itself in a very serious way. There are so many '70s detective flicks but this one shines above all of them by far. It's because he's the black private dick who's a sex machine with all the chicks and I can dig it.
Click to Rate
31
Sicko (2007,  PG-13)
Sicko 5.0 Stars
Michael Moore does what Michael Moore does best in this film. Not only does he have a message that he brings home but he entertains as well. I chuckled and I cried and I was angry. This is very important for Canadians to see as well as Americans. Next to Bowling for Columbine, this is the best Moore film yet.
Click to Rate
32
Rear Window (1954,  PG)
Rear Window 5.0 Stars
Without a doubt, one of the best films ever made. A fine work of art. I find it really hard to review a movie that I've enjoyed this much. I can't quite put my finger on what it is about Rear Window that makes me enjoy it so much. I think that's the sign of a great filmmaker. It's got everything that you would imagine a Hitcock film to have. It's got mystery, suspense, depth, intensity, symbolism, humanity, and the list goes on.
Click to Rate
33
Infra-Man (Chung kuo chao ren) (Chinese Superman) (1975,  PG)
Infra-Man (Chung kuo chao ren) (Chinese Superman) 5.0 Stars
The film hit 5 stars for me within the first 30 minutes. Infra-man: The Original Power Ranger
Click to Rate
34
Over the Hedge (2006,  PG)
Over the Hedge 5.0 Stars
This feature is clever, witty, and socially conscious. The animation is top-notch presenting THE cutest woodland creatures and the music is by none other than Ben Folds. This is another animated masterpiece equivalent to Shrek.
Click to Rate
35
Downfall (Der Untergang) (2004,  R)
Downfall (Der Untergang) 5.0 Stars
If you are going to bother to watch any film about Natzi Germany and/or Hitler, this better be the one. It's not only a social commentary but it's a personal, psychological look at a madman. This gave me tingles it was so well acted and written.
Click to Rate
36
Blood Diamond (2006,  R)
Blood Diamond 5.0 Stars
I am so glad that this is the first film that I've seen in 2007. It set my movie-watching year off to a wonderful start. While DiCaprio has had a few misses, he tends to choose his roles wisely and this is certainly a shining example of that. The film takes the viewer on both a political and personal journey that has suspense dripping from every turn. While the ending is way too drawn out and the love story doesn't add much to the depth, overall this is near-perfect film. This is entertaining, important and refreshing and the great efforts of the director and writers, including the great attention to detail, shall not go unnoted.
Click to Rate
37
Horton Hears a Who! (2008,  G)
Horton Hears a Who! 5.0 Stars
To my total shock and amazement, I thought this film was fantastic! It will become a classic in no time. It was everything that an animated feature is supposed to be. Funny, cute, beautiful graphics, great voice characters! This has become one of my favourite family films. It's on par with the likes of Shrek, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. Most of all, I'm so relieved that they did justice to one of the best Dr. Suess stories ever!
Click to Rate
38
Transamerica (2005,  R)
Transamerica 5.0 Stars
Felicity Huffman frighteningly plays a great tranny. Kevin Zegers = great actor The acting in general is nothing short of spectacular. And it has that Dolly Parton song that would have won the Oscar if only it wasn't so hard out here for a pimp.
Click to Rate
39
Before Sunset (2004,  R)
Before Sunset 5.0 Stars
This sequel reunites the only two characters in Before Sunrise. It's a reunion that the original left you wanting to see and it delivers. The dialogue is poetic, yet real. You will fall in love with this couple if you aren't already but please watch Before Sunrise first.
Click to Rate
40
Waking Life (2001,  R)
Waking Life 5.0 Stars
First of all, you need to commit to this film before you begin watching it or else you will be tempted to unfairly give up
on it. I have never seeen anything remotely like this in my life. At first glance, I labelled this as complete existentialism but quickly I came to realize that it uses existentialism as a tool for motivation and not as a futile exercise in discussion. The film really calls us to address our collective apathy by becoming self-aware as individuals. I think it has powerful implications but it is no way light or transparent. I agree that it might be inaccessable to the masses but it is worthwhile for those willing to heed its demands for deep listening and careful reflection. I would strongly recommend this to anyone interested in ideas. One would not only benefit from repeat viewings of this movie but the film itself seems to call for it. And I say all of this without even mentioning the incredible live-action animation style (one which Linklater coined) and poetic, magical ambience. I don't mean to downplay either for they are completely essential to the experience.
Click to Rate
41
Tsotsi (2006,  R)
Tsotsi 5.0 Stars
This movie was fantastic. It really says something about the potential for compassion that comes out of knowing another's story.
Click to Rate
42
City of God (2003,  R)
City of God 5.0 Stars
This was a masterful piece of artwork. It feels more like a documentary than fiction and in many ways it is.
Click to Rate
43
The Last Kiss (2006,  R)
The Last Kiss 5.0 Stars
This was a really powerful movie largely due to the fact that Braff didn't cop out and go Hollywood with the ending. The sorts of characters you meet along the way are realistic yet unique. There's a great mix of humour mixed with a grippingly dramatic plot that explores the theme of relationship.