My Favorite Movies


  1. shauna1354
  2. Shauna

A list of my ultimate favourite films in no particular order.

  shauna1354's Rating My Rating
1
The Graduate (1967,  PG)
The Graduate
Dustin Hoffman is really incredible in his breakthrough role , I can really understand why his career took off after this was released. This film is a benchmark in so many ways.
It's fantastically shot, so many memorable scenes, from the scuba diving scene to the ending scene on the bus. Anne Bancroft was perfect and was even better combined with Hoffman. Katharine Ross in a weaker supporting role but still pulls it off.
It's hard to ignore the comedic element as it will have you laughing out loud every so often.
Simon and Garfunkel soundtrack was wonderful, never has a song (The Sounds of Silence) matched the mood of a film as much.
This film is a timeless masterpiece that is still as funny and still as affecting to today's audience.
2
Trainspotting (1996,  R)
Trainspotting
Trainspotting is one of the best British films ever made and my favourite film of all time. It's gritty, edgy, unrelenting and is secure in it's status as a cultural phenomenon.
Based on the incredible novel of the same name by Irvine Welsh. Trainspotting chronicles the lives of a bunch of friends immersed in the Edinburgh drug scene.
Ewan McGregor gives his best performance to date as troubled protaganist Renton and Ewen Bremner equally incredible as his dopey yet loveable best mate Spud. Robert Carlyle gives easily the best performance as quick tempered egomaniac Frank Begbie and in my opinion is one of the best and most entertaining characters although not likeable ever seen in film.
From all the films of his I have seen, Trainspotting remains Danny Boyle's finest hour, it's a daring work of art which was a breath of fresh air to british film-making.
This is film that must be seen. The characters are brilliant and especially the conversations they carry out with each other (a personal favourite of mine is Sick Boy's theory of life). Filled with memorable scenes, great use of black comedy and a perfect soundtrack, Trainspotting is the ultimate experience.
3
A Clockwork Orange (1971,  R)
A Clockwork Orange
Disturbingly grotesque, but a damn good film. Kubrick is a master of film-making. It's a difficult film to sit through and it's understandable that some people find it sick and twisted. Malcolm McDowell shines in his role as ulta-violence addicted Alex DeLarge, leader of 'the droogs'. Although his character is horrible, the film has a strange way of making you feel sorry for him through the parts where he is cured. And to end it all ingenious uses of music to compliment the on-screen action.
4
A Streetcar Named Desire (1951,  PG)
A Streetcar Named Desire
A Streetcar Named Desire is a dramatic, fascinating and truly memorable cinematic experience. I could not take my eyes off the screen through out, I was completely engrossed by the sharp and edgy atmosphere and tense confrontations between the characters.

Elia Kazan did an excellent job of bringing to life Tennessee Williams's celebrated play.

Never before have I witnessed acting so good from all of the leads. Vivien Leigh shines as the disturbed and confused Blanche, drifting between fantasy and reality. Marlon Brando, wow. He gives an immaculate performance of the rude and brutal Stanley, definitely up with the best of his career, maybe even THE best. Karl Malden and Kim Hunter both give incredible supporting performances.

A Streetcar Named Desire is an emotive, intelligent, thought-provoking piece of film-making. A true example of a classic.
5
Cidade de Deus, (City of God) (2003,  R)
Cidade de Deus, (City of God)
Magnificent, powerful and totally compelling.
I felt transported into the City of God whilst watching this film, the director really makes you feel every inch of the film and care for and despise some of the characters.
It's a solid yet exciting film with faultless performances. Leandro Firmino was especially excellent as Li'l Zé, I don't think I've ever hated a character as much.
This film is wonderfully crafted with beautiful cinematography that takes you on an exhilirating and brutal journey into the slums of Rio de Janeiro. Probably one of the best foreign films I have seen, it stays with you. See this movie.
6
Amelie (Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain) (2001,  R)
Amelie (Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain)
A clever little gem of a film. Intelligent and articulate, poignant and profound. I liked it's close attention to details in every scene and the message it gives you about life.
Audrey Tautou was perfect for the role, a delight to watch, giving a sincere yet very funny performance.
Stunningly shot, with amazing costumes, colours and art direction. Amelie is charming, funny, moving and a beautiful experience. One of the best films I have ever seen.
7
Psycho (1960,  R)
Psycho
A perfectly suspenseful and enjoyable experience. Psycho is an astonishing masterpiece that set the standard in the horror/thriller genre. Anthony Perkins is really remarkable as Norman Bates, he is disturbed yet innocent, horrifying yet mesmerizing. I found myself spurring Norman on, to get away with it, he was that effective.
Hitchcock crafts a masterpiece which is still today a scary ride. This film probably wouldn't be as great as it is without the incredible score from Bernard Herrmann. I adore this film, definately a must-see.
8
Bonnie and Clyde (1967,  R)
Bonnie and Clyde
'This here's Miss Bonnie Parker. I'm Clyde Barrow. We rob banks.' Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway are excellent in their title roles as well as Gene Hackman and Michael J. Pollard. This is an important piece of film-making of the 1960's and is most definately a landmark. A fast-paced, entertaining, quotable and violent film that makes you want the Barrow gang to succeed. The ending will leave you speechless. Highly recommended memorable classic.
9
Dog Day Afternoon (1975,  R)
Dog Day Afternoon
A highly enjoyable, tragic comedy. Al Pacino, performing what I think is one of the greatest peformances of his career, he leaves you in awe because he brings an undescribable energy to his performance. John Cazale is just riveting, the whole cast is just fantastic. Greatly directed, wonderfully written. This is one powerful movie here, it's a shame they don't make them like this anymore.
10
The Usual Suspects (1995,  R)
The Usual Suspects
This is a tremendous movie in all aspects. I think this movie is the inspiration behind a lot of other movies to have a mind-blowing twist at the end. It is an excellent crime thriller that has to be in the top twenty films ever made. It has very eccentric but interesting characters which the actors play extremely well, Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey, Benicio Del Toro, Stephen Baldwin to name a few. If you haven't seen this film yet, then sorry but you haven't lived.
11
Brief Encounter (1945,  Unrated)
Brief Encounter
A wonderful British romance film of the 1940's. A timeless masterpiece with characters so real you sometimes forget they are acting. I'm not usually one for romance films but Brief Encounter is so incredibly poignant and well written. Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard are perfectly cast and give unforgettable performances. The train station and sound effects create a haunting atmosphere and have probably changed the way I look at train stations. It's a simple, honest story of love and longing, I could never tire of it.
12
Léon (The Professional) (1994,  R)
Léon (The Professional)
Masterpiece. Incredible film with an intense story and fantastic performances. It has wonderful elements of comedy, action and drama all rolled into one. Gary Oldman reminds me why he's my favourite actor as he perfectly executes the sadistic, psychotic but quirky character of Norman Stansfield. Jean Reno and the young Natalie Portman are also phenomenal. A personal favorite film of mine.
13
GoodFellas (1990,  R)
GoodFellas
I think this is without a doubt the best mob movie ever made - in my opinion. The performances were excellent. Ray Liotta's best performance of his career. Joe Pesci steals every scene with his quirkiness. Robert De Niro is brilliant, but isn't he always? Breath taking direction by Scorsese and this just happens to be my favourite Scorsese film. And with a great soundtrack to top it all off.
14
Full Metal Jacket (1987,  R)
Full Metal Jacket
An excellent war movie. Kubrick's a genius. The first half an hour of the film, really gets you gripped. R Lee Ermey's character is really the main reason, the sarcastic comments and yelling that come out of his mouth are just hilarious. Vincent D'Onofrio's portrayal of the victimised and very psychotic Private Pyle is unforgettable. Spectacular film, with spectacular direction, cinematography and dialogue. Definately worth a view.
15
True Romance (1993,  R)
True Romance
Great cult movie. Tarantino's dialogue is top notch, the story is exciting and intense. This film is filled with great performances from some of the best actors working today. Christopher Walken, Gary Oldman, Dennis Hopper, Christian Slater, Tom Sizemore and not to mention Brad Pitt is absoloutley hilarious in his role. Don't miss this!
16
Reservoir Dogs (1992,  R)
Reservoir Dogs
This movie is very stylish. The colour-coding names was very intelligent. and amusing. The acting was incredible. You can't not like this movie.
17
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (2004,  R)
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
This movie is so fresh and different. It was a bizarre storyline but incredible to watch. At times I found myself struggling to keep up but it was worthwhile and came together at the end. The performances I could not fault and the screenplay was inspiring. This movie really makes you think about memories and cherish them more. By far one of the best movies of 2004.
18
Garden State (2004,  R)
Garden State
Zach Braff proves his talent by directing and writing Garden State. This film is smart and charming and has some of the most inspiring dialogue, I have ever witnessed. The cast is wonderful Portman and Braff work really well together as well as good supporting performances from Ian Holm and Peter Sarsgaard. You definately get more out of it each time you watch it and this film offers many things you can relate to.
19
Dead Poets Society (1989,  PG)
Dead Poets Society
I really liked this film, probably because of my love of poetry and literature. The humor in it was really great and a lot of the dialogue was excellent, so were some of the poems used. A beautiful and touching film.
'The name is Nuwanda' - I loved that line.
20
The Pianist (2002,  R)
The Pianist
Adrien Brody was well deserving of his oscar. Most moving film I have seen in a long time. Incredible film. Bravo Roman Polanski.
21
Fight Club (1999,  R)
Fight Club
Dark and disturbing but smart and stylish.
An instant classic and one of the most unique films ever made. In my opinion Edward Norton gives his best performance and Brad Pitt is equally entertaining. Well-crafted film with great black comedy. I first watched this film last year and it changed the way I think about movies. A must-see.
22
American History X (1998,  R)
American History X
Very powerful movie and very moving.
23
Misery (1990,  R)
Misery
Extremely suspenseful film that's directed brilliantly. It has moments where you will be on the edge of your seat and moments that will either make you laugh or make you cringe. Kathy Bates extremely deserving of the Oscar as she carries the film playing her sinister, psychotic character wonderfully. She is terrifying and unforgettable in this role. A must watch even just for Kathy Bates performance.
24
The Godfather (1972,  R)
25
El Laberinto del Fauno (Pan's Labyrinth) (2006,  R)
El Laberinto del Fauno (Pan's Labyrinth)
It's a magical and beautiful film but also a very dark masterpiece. I liked the fairytale elements and all the wonderfully costumed creatures although the pale man is a little creepy. Excellent script and a brilliant cast. The little girl Ivana Baguero carries the film but also a great performance from Sergi Lopez as the brutal, sadistic step-father. A stellar film.
26
Snatch (2001,  R)
27
21 Grams (2003,  R)
28
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975,  PG)
29
Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979,  R)
30
Alien (1979,  R)
31
Scarface (1983,  R)
32
Taxi Driver (1976,  R)
33
If.... (1968,  Unrated)
34
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1999,  R)
35
Atonement (2007,  R)
Atonement
Stunning, beautiful and poignant film. I am intent on reading the novel after viewing this excellent film.
James McAvoy and Keira Knightley were well cast as the pining lovers, although James McAvoy performed a little better and was oustanding to watch. Keira Knightley on the other hand wasn't as sensational as McAvoy but still pulls off a riveting performance. The young Saoirse Ronan was gave a great performance, she and Romola Garai show great potential for the future. Vanessa Redgrave is also worth a mention, she gave a very powerful performance of the ageing Briony.
A breathtakingly well-crafted film from Joe Wright, who I hope will bring us more remarkable films in the future.
With inspiring dialogue and a unique sound, Atonement deserves the praise it has been given and will hopefully scoop a few Awards. This is a modern masterpiece, just as captiviting as other romantic epics such as 'The English Patient', Atonement is definately a must-see.
36
American Psycho (2000,  R)
American Psycho
This film proves what an amazing actor Chrstian Bale really is. It's a disgustingly brilliant film. Very funny. I like the 'Death By Huey Lewis' scene.
37
Amores Perros (2001,  R)
38
Schindler's List (1993,  R)
Schindler's List
Spielberg's best. This movie is so moving and devastating. I can't watch this film very often because I find it difficult to watch. Liam Neeson and Ben Kingsley are amazing and so is the direction. I am proud to have it in my collection because of the powerful message it holds.
39
Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others) (2006,  R)
40
Funny Games (1998,  Unrated)
Funny Games
Unsettling, disturbing, gripping film. Haneke's masterful direction constructs an original, shocking and clever film. The film is very controversial, and I still can't understand why it is called a failure because it conveys violence in a whole new light.
The acting was flawless, Susanne Lothar's screams of terror were really human and made you forget you were watching a film. Arno Frisch and Frank Giering are terrific as sadistic psychopaths. The script is incredible. This film is not without it's dark humor, the way Paul addresses the audience on a few occassions was amusing yet terrifying.
Highly recommended film, but it is NOT for everyone.
41
State of Grace (1990,  R)
State of Grace
Extremely overlooked film. A dark and clever gangster film with a terrific cast. A career best performance for Gary Oldman, probably second to Norman Stansfield in Leon, he gives a chilling performance as an Irish gangster. Not only does he play a psychopath-who-keeps-body-parts-in-his-freezer fantastically well but he also makes him likeable. Also in my opinion he made Sean Penn seem boring in this film.
It's tense, gritty and action-packed but unfortunately not without it's cliches, it also tends to lag with the scenes with Penn and Robin Wright.
Highly recommended, Gary Oldman's knockout performance is reason enough to see it.
42
Control (2007,  R)
Control
Electrifying, heart-breaking, incredible. Control is a stunning and thought-provoking film that definately plays with your emotions. Joy Division changed the face of music in the 1970's and this is the story of extremely talented yet doomed lead singer Ian Curtis.
Newcomer Sam Riley is a revelation as Ian Curtis, he compels the viewers and takes them along for the journey with him. Samantha Morton is tremendous also, she encapsulates the role of Curtis' neglected wife and really gives a sincere performance. I also must mention Toby Kebbell who plays Joy Division's manager, he plays his part very well too. The film is shot entirely in black and white which gives the film a very haunting atmosphere, the director seems to be obviously passionate about this subject which adds greatly to the quality of the film. The soundtrack is used very wisely, creating some very electrifying and poignant scenes. I'd recommend this film to anybody regardless that they know much or like Joy Division's music at all. This film is a worthwhile watch that's intense, engaging yet beautifully depressing.
43
Cool Hand Luke (1967,  Unrated)
44
JFK (1991,  R)
45
The Silence of the Lambs (1991,  R)
46
Run Lola Run (Lola rennt) (1999,  R)
Run Lola Run (Lola rennt)
This is by far one of the most exciting, exhilirating, adrenalin-pumping films I have ever seen to date. For the entire short 77 minutes runtime, I could not take my eyes of the screen.
Run Lola Run is visually stunning, Tom Tykwer is definitely a film-maker to watch out for, this film sucks you in and never lets go. The film is very well written and extremely original and is topped off with brilliant lead performances from Franka Potente and Moritz Bleibtreu.
Run Lola Run is a fun, unique and memorable film which I demand you all to see.
47
The Blues Brothers (1980,  R)
48
The Darjeeling Limited (2007,  R)
The Darjeeling Limited
The Darjeeling Limited is a very funny, offbeat, poignant and visually stunning film from director Wes Anderson.
Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody and Jason Schwartzman play three brothers who haven't spoken to each other in a year, on a train in India in hope of finding spiritual enlightenment, the whole idea of it made me laugh even before the film started.
The acting was exceptional from all the leads, I was particularly impressed with Owen Wilson who in other films I have found very annoying, he was superb as the elder control-freak brother. All the characters feel very real and are very likeable. Not to mention a hilarious cameo by Bill Murray in the first 5 minutes of the film as a businessman racing Adrien Brody to the train.
This film is easy-going to watch and a refreshing change from a lot of other films, the colourful art-direction is simply beautiful also.
Wes Anderson crafts a brilliantly well-written and well-acted film with plenty of humor but it also has some very serious elements. A must-watch.
49
No Country for Old Men (2007,  R)
No Country for Old Men
The Coens deliver another spectacular and thrilling masterpiece which in my opinion is now more superior than any of their other work. They've crafted a wonderfully intense film filled with masterful chase scenes between Moss and Chigurh and topped off with a brilliantly dark screenplay.
Javier Bardem was hugely terrifying as the calm yet menacing killer Anton Chigurh, Bardem has excellently portrayed a character that should go down in movie villain history. I was on the edge of my seat everytime he appeared on screen with his odd weapons of choice and even scarier hair cut. The rest of the cast, Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones and Woody Harrelson also gave faultless performances.
No Country deserved every Oscar it got and definitely one of the best films of 2007. I'd love to read the novel now.
50
Breathless (À bout de souffle) (By a Tether) (1961,  Unrated)
51
There Will Be Blood (2007,  R)
There Will Be Blood
There are lots of things that make There Will Be Blood such a powerful and brilliant cinematic experience.

Firstly I must state the obvious Daniel Day-Lewis. He gives an unmissable performance as Daniel Plainview, slowly transforming into the most monstrous of human beings but keeping his humanity all the same. Incredible powerhouse acting that establishes him as one of the best actors walking the planet. Must mention Paul Dano also, why was he not nominated for an Oscar? I expect great things from him in the future.

The script is marvellous, filled with haunting scenes, memorable dialogue. It has a lot of themes, family, faith, greed, power and religion. The score is electrifying and never fails to be haunting.

Paul Thomas Anderson did a fantastic job. His work is new to me and I will now definitely seek out his other films.

The ending is perfect and one of the most powerful I've ever seen.

Films like this come along only once in a while, There Will Be Blood is a force to be reckoned with.

I......drink.......your.......milkshake!
52
Jules and Jim (1962,  Unrated)
53
La Haine (Hate) (1996,  R)
La Haine (Hate)
La Haine is an edgy, well crafted and unforgettable film from Matthieu Kassovitz.
The film centers on an unlikely group of friends in the suburbs of France and their reactions to the violence that occurs around them.
Matthieu Kassovitz gives us a powerful film, rich in originality which is undoubtedly a triumph in film-making. Cleverly shot in black and white with swift and stunning camera work, which gives La Haine a raw and intense feel.The three main actors give superb performances, particularly Vincent Cassel proving his talent in an early role.
La Haine is a remarkable achievement that intrigues and entertains you right until it's shocking climax.
54
Downfall (Der Untergang) (2004,  R)
Downfall (Der Untergang)
A compelling and powerful film, Der Untergang is a gripping depiction of one of the darkest and most brutal events in history. Set in Hitler's bunker in the last ten days of his life, this film makes you feel every inch of the atmosphere in the cramped and chilling bunker.
Bruno Ganz's performance of Hitler is nothing short of phenomenal, his portrayal of Hitler's insanity and desperation are extremely convincing. The rest of the cast give strong support.
This film is very draining because of it's lengthy running time, but it did not ever lose my interest or intrigue. Der Untergang is outstanding in many respects. I recommend this to anyone with an interest in war films or anyone with the patience to view it.
55
Harold and Maude (1971,  PG)
Harold and Maude
Harold and Maude is a quirky, heart-warming and sentimental film worthy of it's status as a cult classic and is probably one of the most important films of all time.
Harold is a rich young man, unsatisfied by his life but engrossed with death. Maude is a lively, high-spirited 79-year old woman and when the two meet they form a close bond and embark upon some very humourous adventures.
Harold and Maude one of the most unusual love stories out there, filled with witty dialogue and memorable scenes that leaves the viewer captivated everytime they watch it.
Bud Cort portrays Harold extremely well, capturing every inch of his morbid nature and blank stares. Ruth Gordon is enjoyable to watch and plays the role beautifully. Plus the Cat Stevens soundtrack fits the film perfectly.
Harold and Maude is a wonderfully uplifting yet darkly poignant film. It holds a great message about living your life to the fullest and that love has no boundaries. This is a film you must see before you die.
56
The Kid (1921,  Unrated)
57
Edward Scissorhands (1990,  PG-13)
Edward Scissorhands
One of Tim Burton's best films. I did not expect so much from Edward Scissorhands, somehow it's quirky and unusual tale of an inventors unfinished creation left behind, manages to pull on your heartstrings. I was surprised how emotionally touching the film is, it's after effect haunts you for days to come.
Tim Burton has always been responsible for producing unconventional and extremely entertaining films and Edward Scissorhands is by far his masterpiece in my opinion.
A huge applause for Johnny Depp as without him in the title role, who knows what other portrayal would have been conceived. He's brilliant, he conveys all the innocence, harmlessness and curiosity of his character. His performance was Oscar-worthy.
The balance of drama, dark humour and romance was perfect. The story is told beautifully.
To conclude, this is in my opinion the best Burton film I have seen, it's magical, poetic, funny and moving.
58
Midnight Cowboy (1969,  R)
59
Forrest Gump (1994,  PG-13)
60
Good Will Hunting (1997,  R)
Good Will Hunting
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck have some amazing talent as their screenplay was beautiful. A very powerful movie with a very powerful message about life and people. Performances were perfect and the ending couldn't be better. Definatley up their with some of my favourites.
61
Rushmore (1998,  R)
62
The Breakfast Club (1985,  R)
63
The Terminator (1984,  R)
64
Rain Man (1988,  R)
65
Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986,  PG)
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Great 80's Teen Comedy. I never get tired of watching this.
66
Withnail and I (1987,  R)
Withnail and I
Cult classic. One of the best British comedies ever made. The teaming up of Richard E. Grant and Paul McGann is pure comedy genius and makes for great entertainment. Withnail and I is filled with classic dialogue and unforgettable characters.
'We've gone on holiday by mistake.' Love it.

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