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To survive in today's world one is expected to conform into an acceptable, safe and predictable mould or risk being ostracised from society. A testament to human spirit and endurance, One Few Over the Cuckoo's Nest challenges the viewer to break free of these conventions and embrace oneself, flaws and all. The character of R.P. McMurphy represents freedom of the mind and it is through him that we come to realize that the term 'normal' is relative. When seen through McMurphy's eyes, the whole world is insane, especially when opressors like Nurse Ratchet are in positions of leadership. Despite the tragic ending, the story ends on a note of optimism with the Chief continuing McMurphy's legacy.

Staying true to his signiture peaceful nature, Spielberg refreshingly goes against the grain in depicting aliens as friendly beings instead of bloodthirsty killers. A gem of a film, made during a time when people were much more innocent, Close Encounters feels a little naive for today's audiences. Still, that adds to its charm in many ways and makes us crave for those long forgotten days.

(No. 10)
Director Lewis Gilbert pulls out all the stops in making this one of the most visually interesting Bond films ever, while also introducing us to one of the most formidable of all of Bond's antagonists: Jaws. Silent but deadly, Jaws still holds presence on screen and is a truly frightening character, while Moore comes into his own as Agent 007, enveloping his character completely. Beautiful cinematography and artistic framing catapult this adventure into an above average viewing experience. A variety of locations keep the action fresh by starting in the cold climates of Russia and Austria, and then really heating up in Egypt and Italy. The scenes of the pyramids are exceptionally striking with atmospheric lighting illuminating their grandeur over an eerie narration of their ancient history. The Spy Who Loved Me is definitely one of the best of the franchise.

(No. 9)
Grittier than usual, Moore shows he's not just a pretty face by getting down and dirty, and holding nothing back from getting the job done. A dramatic car chase through crowded Thai streets ending with a daredevil jump over a broken bridge keeps the viewer glued to the screen. The overall cinematography of stunning island locales provides a treat for the eyes, while Q's nifty gadgets continue to feed the imagination. Both Christopher Lee and Hervé Villechaize are a wonderfully villainous pair; Lee is suave and charmingly but Villechaize is downright creepily. However, a film is only as good as its weakest link, and in this case, Agent Goodnight's character falls severely short by being nothing more than a blond ditz. It's lucky that an otherwise solid supporting cast and a tight story make this film a success.

This film is about celebrity worship and casting Brad Pitt as the only really well known actor was a brilliant move. Casey Affleck's portrayal of Robert Ford is riveting; he plays him as creepy yet pitiful in his painfully pathetic attempts at being respected. The viewer can't help but cringe at Ford's desperation and lack of self-esteem. Apart from the fantastic acting, the film is a complete visual treat, putting a new twist on an old genre. Soft lighting and wide angles give the movie a Zen-like quality by capturing the beauty of the landscape as well as subtext in dialogue.

Juliette Binoche's subtle yet impactful performance takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Director Krzysztof Kieslowski captures the human process of healing and survival. Original art direction and a beautiful score accompany the underlying message that one cannot give up on "life" forever... ultimately, life will come knocking on your door.

Cinematically beautiful thanks to Ridley Scott's dedication to detail, this film continues to hold its own against modern Sci-Fi's made with bigger budgets. An airtight story with no contrived moments, as well as very natural acting, makes its tenth viewing as thrilling as its first.

Definitely one of the most original biographies ever put to film, I'm Not There is an explosion of imagery shown in a variety of styles which perfectly mimic the kaleidoscopic life that is Dylan's. A bold project to say the least, Director Todd Haynes nails what is the essence of Bob Dylan as a man, an artist, a husband and a rock star. And he does so in a purely metaphorical, non-conformist fashion - exactly how Dylan would want it. Simply brilliant.

Call it karma, call it destiny, this film is about dealing with unfinished business and taking responsibility for the wrongs committed to loved ones. A talented ensemble cast play an array of eclectic characters, each of whom are a product of their own horrors. Anderson cleverly disguises the heavy subject matter by his filmic flair, giving the viewer an adrenaline rush like no other. Brilliant filmmaking.