NFL, Beer and Other Fine Arts

"These are the best movies EVER!"

Okay movie fans here are the 150 greatest films of all time!! Hopefully our friends, and experts at MOVIEMOJO will offer up some insights into this list. Before I get right to it, let me explain how I come up with this list, and give you the guidelines I followed when ranking these films.

I am not a part of the school of thought that a movie has to be boring to be good. I think a great film is both though provoking and entertaining.

I believe that a comedy, if done just right, is every bit as artful as a drama. If you excel at your craft you have made beautiful art, even if it’s funny.

This list is contemporary!! If I haven’t seen it, it’s not here. There is nothing in black and white, and if were being realistic movie making has gotten better over the years.

There is nothing musical, or play like on my list. You will not find “Chicago” or “The Wizard of Oz” here. They are great works of art, but I really don’t accept them as films. These are plays, and shouldn’t overshadow true movie.

There will be no cartoons on my list. I absolutely love “Finding Nemo” and “The incredibles” but if we get into that the whole list is going to be animated, and that’s also not fair to works that had so many actors, directs, make-up artists, and numerous other things going into their production. Cartoon flicks are a list onto itself.

I’m sorry to disappoint all of you fat Italian meatballs out there, but I’m not a huge fan of the gangster movie. You’re not going to find “The Godfather” or “Goodfellahs” they are good, but not my cup of tea.

I give a lot of consideration for originality, and films that were breakthroughs at the time of their release.

Re-play value is a huge factor for me. We can’t ignore the fact that we re-watch certain films every single time we run across them channel surfing, and then say that they aren’t great.

That’s enough said, so lets get to it!!!

Braveheart (1995): It is once in a lifetime that a movie of this magnitude comes along, and for my generation there is no doubt that it is Braveheart. Mel Gibson does a world-class job of both acting and directing this epic picture. This is a movie that has a little bit of everything. It’s exciting, funny, dramatic, and sad. This picture also features what I consider to be the greatest scene in movie history; the character of William Wallace crying out “Freeeeeeedom!” at the time of his torture/death.

The Patriot (2000): I’m not a Mel Gibson fanatic, but I absolutely love this picture. I always find it strange that despite the fact that the revolutionary war was the most important conflict in our countries history, it is rarely depicted in film. This movie does an amazing job of depicting the war, and a reluctant hero and father. The acting is superb all around, including a particularly stout performance by Lisa Brenner as Ann Howard. This film can tug at the heartstring, and inspire the true patriot in all of us. This picture also includes one of my favorite pieces of movie magic, in the last battle scene when the Americans are on the verge of giving up and retreating. Benjamin Martin sees his troops faltering and puts his own vendetta aside to inspire his men. Martin grabs an American flag and runs to the forefront of the conflict screaming “no retreat, hold the line!” It is amazingly well done, in an amazingly well done and well-rounded film. I suspect that this movie would have been considered a classic by the “experts” had it not followed Braveheart. It seemed the trendy criticism to compare the two, while I see no reason to walk all over a great movie just because it is also of the war genre.

Cinderella Man (2005): A better-made movie, you will never see. From start to finish there isn’t a single frame of Cinderella Man that isn’t positively perfect. It is not only an uplifting story, but it is a true story. I have read two of the books about the depression era fighter depicted in this film, and a more accurate job of translating this remarkable story to film could not have been done. Everything single minute detail of James Braddock’s life that was even the tiniest bit important is integrated into his picture, even if in just a particularly clever sentence or two of dialogue. There is a particular scene of note where our hero has finally reached rock bottom and must go begging for money. The scene is sad and makes us cry, what is so unusual about this is the fact that an emotional response is elicited through pity. Sure we have been made to cry before in movies, but always through the use of death, or romance, or even a victory sniffle. I think it’s a hell of an achievement to set up your audience to be emotional because they have so much empathy and pity for a characters well being. Russell Crow, Renee Zellweger, and Paul Giamantti are all give world-class performances. Ron Howard is an amazing filmmaker and he does justice to the real life story of a true American hero.

Saving Private Ryan (1998): Steven Spielberg’s true masterpiece. This movie actually changed the way I though about war. So powerful was this film in its depiction of deadly conflict that I actually had to step back and really think about such things. The beaches of Normandy was always known and read about in books, but when I saw it in this movie it really made me say; “Wow, that was absolutely insane! I could not have done that.” That kind of though provocation is what great filmmaking is all about, and Spielberg’s really gets the job done here. Tom Hanks is also brilliant, and his character is absurdly intriguing. Captain John H. Miller is a former schoolteacher, and as we learn about his becoming a captain we realize how ‘war hero’s’ are just everyday people who get throw into not so everyday circumstances. Amazingly powerful visuals, and some of the most compelling dialogues you will ever hear. Seldom can a long one on one conversation between two secondary characters engross us so much, but it works here because the writing is second to none.

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981): Enter the adventure film. To this day, Raiders is the definitive adventure movie, and Harrison Ford proves that we absolutely can’t take our eyes off of his humorous kick ass style. Rarely can a character be believably rugged, brave, and intelligent at the same time, but Indiana Jones is that man without question. Raider’s is an epic adventure worth seeing a thousand times, with as many laughs as it has thrills. The scene where Indiana has to steal the truck carrying the ark from the Nazi’s always sticks out in my mind, as one of the finest in film history.

The Sixth Sense (1999): I have never in my life been in such a shocked theatre as at the end of the sixth sense. M Night Shylamalan pulls the rug out from under us like no one has ever done before. It’s worth noting that this is a great movie before the twist. The fear we feel for the character of Coal Sear is undeniable. Seldom can a film make us truly afraid for it’s character but it’s done here brilliantly, and it’s done in a child performance the likes of which will never be matched. The Sixth Sense is positively brilliant from start to finish, and Bruce Willis shows us that he can as “deadly” serious as the next actor.

Jaws (1975): This is the third Spielberg picture to show up in the top ten, I guess he must get his due. Jaws is one of those rare films that holds up to modern standards in every conceivable way. It was made in 1975, but it’s absolutely flawless and looks gorgeous to us even today in our CGI world. Jaws is cast to perfection, and the interaction and camaraderie between our three heroes’s is priceless. Roy Schieder, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss all deliver knock out performances in the movie that made people fear the water.

The Untouchables (1987): I love this picture! Directed by Brian Depalma, Untouchables tell the story of prohibition. A curious little page from American history that included a lot of violence and crime. Kevin Costner, and Sean Connery are superb as the leading characters and movies don’t get much more intense than this. The story surrounds the real life crusade of Elliot Ness and his band of cops trying to squash Al Capone as his illegal boot legging business in Chicago. This is a brilliant picture, which deserves more attention than it gets. Andy Garcia is also excellent in this movie.

Star Wars (1977): Episode I? Maybe 4? I’m confused now, but I mean to praise the first Star Wars that ever came to theaters. George Lucus writes and directs the very first sci-fi pic that is well received by all audiences. Rarely is the perfect cast brought together, but it is done here. From top to bottom our characters have incredible chemistry, and it comes across in this enormously entertaining movie. The picture has stood the test of time, and is still the greatest sci-fi of them all.

Man on Fire (2004): The critics clobbered this movie, but I’ll never understand why. Tony Scott does a remarkable job with brilliant scenes, and engrossing cuts, and flashbacks. We get to know these characters better than we do most in an action picture, and without wasting a lot of time. Denzel Washington is genius in this movie, and his character is very intriguing. Dakota Fanning is also great, and her relationship with Criese (Washington) is done with care and brilliance. Although we have seen the adult, child bonding before there is something different here. There is something unique and special about Criese and this little girl.

October Sky (1999): This movie is based on a true story, and so interesting that it made me read the book the film is based on. October sky is the true story of Homer H. Hikam, a boy in a mining town, who would someday become an astronaut. It is a beautiful made movie, with wonderful scenery and performances. There is a particularly good performance by Chris Cooper. I think this film would have received more attention had it not been based on a true story. I think sometimes a film depicts events that are so amazing we just don’t believe them possible, when in reality the moviemakers are sticking pretty close to the story all along.

In the Line of Fire (1993): I have heard applause in a movie theatre four maybe five times, and this was one of them. A terrific story about an aging secret service agent, his guilt, and a new enemy. Clint Eastwood plays agent Frank Horrigan and John Malkovich plays Mitch Leary. Both Horrigan and Leary are wonderfully flawed, and complex characters and the interaction between them is pure movie magic. The funny thing about this movie is that it came out before Clint Eastwood was ‘considered’ a great actor/movie maker. I think if this film were released tomorrow he would be considered for an Oscar, as would John Malkovich. Rene Ruso also gives a nice performance here as the love interest. The film also has some wonderful scenes splicing Eastwood into the past, as a part of John F. Kennedy’s motorcade.

A Time to Kill (1996): A long time before there was “Crash” A Time to Kill dealt with race relations and did it better than anything before it or since. I’m not allergic to such issues, especially when they are done this well. This movie is based on a John Grisham novel, but it reminds me a lot of the classic “To Kill a Mockingbird.” This is an all-star cast including: Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, Ashley Judd, Donald Sutherland, Keiffer Sutherland, Oliver Platt, and Chris Cooper. WOW, that’s what you call star-power!! It would be easy to overlook the director here, but we won’t. Joel Schumacher does a remarkable job of weaving an interesting and intelligent film here. There is a lot of excitement, and lot of dialogue but it never feels like we are bored or in “down time,” the movie is kept wonderfully interesting from start to finish.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991): Jodi Foster and Anthony Hopkins drive this vehicle into greatness, in what is the greatest psychological thrill ride in movie history. Clarice Starling and Dr. Hannibal Lector’s interaction are both brilliant and creepy. Rarely has a film been able to make our skin crawl through conversation, but Silence of the Lambs does it effectively, and often. This was a great movie, and is still Anthony Hopkins crowning achievement.

The Hunt for Red October (1990): This is not going to be a popular choice, but it’s one of my favorites. Hunt for Red October brings to the screen the novel by Tom Clancy. This picture is wonderfully directed by John McTiernan, and we will see his name again on this list. October was the first great submarine movie, and a true suspense ride. Sean Connery plays Russian defector Marko Ramius, and Alec Baldwin plays Jack Ryan. Ryan is the only person who understands Ramius, and the only person who can validate the Russians intentions. The film is able to facility a brilliant chess match and some wonderful character development throughout a non-stop pulse pounding adventure. If you haven’t seen this movie, do so.

American Beauty (1999): This is another picture that proves a movie can be entertaining and great at the same time. I would also point out that this film deals with homosexuality, but its done well. The film doesn’t beat you over the head with heavy-handed messages, but instead subtle and clever character interaction, which is why it is on this list. I will not universally dismiss any social issue, if it done this well. Kevin Spacey plays Lester Burnham a character that wakes up one day and finds that hates the direction his life has taken. He goes on an interesting journey of self-discovery and takes with him the reluctant Carolyn Burnham played by Annette Benning. This movie is a fascinating study in “normal” and no matter what neighborhood your in people are strange in their own ways, and beautiful in their own ways. There is a lot more to it than that, but I can’t get into everything. There is also a great performance here by supporting actor Chris Cooper as Colonel Frank Fitz.

Beverly Hills Cop II (1987): This is the second film in the top 20 that was directed by Tony Scott. Scott brings us what we have never seen before, or since. This is positively the best action comedy of all time, and as such earns a place in the top twenty. Never before have I seen a film that was this funny, and still had serious action that is this good. Eddie Murphy plays Detroit native Axel Foley, who must team up with Beverly Hills native’s Judge Reinhold and John Ashton who play Rosewood and Taggert. The chemistry between the three is remarkable, and it’s serious when it has to be. One amazing scene is this picture is a depiction of the criminals in the progress of robbing a bank, at the same time as our hero’s have figured it out and are racing to the scene. The tension is very high, and it is as exciting, and funny, a scene as has ever been shot.

Se7en (1995): Written by Andrew Kevin Walker this is a movie that functions first and foremost because it is original and an awesome story. Seven is diabolically gripping right from the get go, and never lets up. Morgan Freeman plays Detective Lt. William Somerset, and Gwyenth Paltro plays Tracy Mills. The interaction between Somerset, the old and worldly cop, and Tracy Mills, the suburban type woman, give this movie some of its best moments. This is another exciting movie whose lulls aren’t boring because the characters are so dam good. Also brilliant is Kevin Spacey as John Doe. Brad Pitt is O.K but probably replaceable in this movie.

As Good as it Gets (1997): Did I mention that movie could be both entertaining and great at the same time? If I didn’t this is a fine a time to mention it. As Good as it Gets is both an exercise in big league performance by talented actors, and unique story line. Jack Nicholson play Melvin Udall an O.C.D writer who has an unusual relationship with a waitress named Carol Connelly played by Helen Hunt. What I really like about this movie is that it doesn’t get bogged down by the OCD, there is enough here so that we know what is wrong with Melvin and we are pretty sure what it is, there is no need for excess footage of him washing his hands. This picture also has a great part by Greg Kinnear, who plays Melvin’s gay neighbor.

Dirty Harry (1971): Can you imagine that this guy turned into one of the premiere movie makers in all of Hollywood? Interesting, but true. Lone before Clint Eastwood made great movies, he starred in them and this character is truly one of movie histories best. This gritty, gritty police story introduces us to old-school Harry Callahan who is a great cop surrounded at times by red tape and bureaucracy. Callahan is forced to play games, until it’s time to do things his way, and the sparks fly. Callahan is an interesting character and this is really a terrific film. Sadly, because there were so many sequels, people forget just how great the original was.

Blade (1998): Maybe never before has a movie set out to be an ass-kicker, and succeeded as well as Blade did. This movie is pure fun from start to finish, with relentless action and some unique characters. Blade was a super cool idea, and is brought to life here perfectly by the “enhanced” Wesley Snipes (insert steroid joke here). Blade breathed new life into the vampire movie and lays the groundwork for films like Underworld, by showing that this type of film can be entertaining as an action based genre. Blade achieves greatness by being an uncompromising, unapologetically fun. Blade undoes the undead, in a variety of unique and satisfying ways thanks to his weapons expert and partner Whistler, played by Khris Kristofferson. Stephen Dorff is also great here as Blades nemesis.

Back to the Future (1985): This is one of those movies I described in the introduction to this piece. If you run across Back to the future on television, you watch it. A Robert Zemeckis classic filled with humor, adventure, and heart. Michael J. Fox is probably the only person on the planet suited for this role, as is Christopher Lloyd as Dr. Emmitt Brown. The casting is superb and the movie flows beautifully. A unique picture that stands the test of time, no pun intended. How many times have we laughed at Marty McFly in the 50’s trying to order a drink at the café: [In 1955, Tab and Pepsi Free aren't invented yet] Lou: You gonna order something, kid? Marty McFly: Ah, yeah... Give me a Tab. Lou: Tab? I can't give you a tab unless you order something. Marty McFly: Alright, give me a Pepsi Free. Lou: You want a Pepsi, PAL, you're gonna pay for it.

Lethal Weapon (1987): Hear me out! This Richard Donner picture is not what the franchise turned into. This is a fabulous movie with awesome action, and wonderfully complex characters. Mel Gibson’s plays Martin Riggs, a cop on the edge. Not just the edge, but also the very edge, and his portrayal of a man losing the will to live is incredibly gripping. This is a very serious film, that is as intense as it is fun, and it takes a long time to accept Riggs but Donner makes the audience discover him along with his partner. Danny Glover’s character Roger Murtah is as uncertain about his partner’s mental state as the audience is, and his eventual friendship is very nice work by Donner and company. I also firmly believe that this is one of Gibson’s finest acting pieces, if you don’t think so give it another watch.

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn (1982): Chemistry, chemistry, chemistry. This original cast of Star Trek was such a wonderful team. Shatner, Nimoy, Kelly, Doohan all were believable as true comrades, and adventurers. There has been nothing like Star Trek since, or probably ever will be again. Gene Rodenberrys true vision of this fantastic journey through space was truly realized in this epic motion picture. Kahn, one of the shows original villains, surfaces to chase his nemesis Captain Kirk through space and he acquires a deadly weapon of planetary concern. To stop him the crew of the enterprise may have to sacrifice one of its dearest members. William shatner never gets much credit as an actor, but there are few scenes here that his above and beyond the performance expectations of a science fiction picture. The “burial” scene is among the most memorable in movie history.

The Naked Gun: From the files of Police Squad! (1988): Rarely does clever meet silly humor, but when it does my god is it funny. There are plenty of goofy movies out there but none of them are as meticulously clever, and out right hilarious as this is. This is a prime example of great comedy being art, here David Zucker treats us to a truly brilliant comedy. Leslie Nielson as Lt. Frank Drebin is funny beyond belief, as is his sidekick Capt. Ed Hocken played by George Kennady. This is still the most I have ever laughed in a theatre in my entire life. Naked Gun and all of its sequels set the bar for silly comedy, and it hasn’t been reached since.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987): John Candy and Steve Martin light up the screen and our hearts in this comedy about people, personality, and circumstance. John Hughes directs this holiday classic about two distinctly different people trying desperately to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. Their adventures are hilarious and among the most memorable in film, along with a very interesting journey of self-discovery. Del Griffith and Neal Page are two silver screen characters that will live on in our hearts for a lifetime.

The Evil Dead (1981): Long before Sam Raimi directed blockbuster Spiderman movies he was making cult classics like this one. The Evil Dead makes this list because it does the impossible. Here we are absolutely scared stupid by a movie with virtually no budget of any kind. The special effects are minimal, and not very good at that, so this picture has to survive of story, atmosphere, and characters. The film succeeds at just that, and Bruce Campbell, who has become a sort of funny hero type, is deadly serious here and spends a great deal of this movie alone. There is really some pretty good acting going on here, Campbell has us terrified for him and Raimi pulls out all of the creepy stops. This is movie making at it’s best because minimal tools are taken and turned into a horror classic.

The Replacements (2000): There have been many attempts at football movies over the years but all of them fail to do what is done here by the most unlikely of candidates. The Replacements is a comedy, but it is also the most realistic football action ever captured on film. Unlike movies like “Any Given Sunday” there aren’t a lot of silly plays with guys flying through the air, and doing 360’s every other play. In the Replacements the action is extraordinarily realistic, and it keeps us involved in this hilarious comedy. When the professional players go on strike, Jimmy McGinty, played by Gene Hackman, must assemble a group of replacement players and try to make the play-offs. Hackmans players aren’t totally silly, they are all ex players, or former busts. Shane Falco the QB, played by Keanu Reeves, is particularly believable in this role and even has an intriguing relationship with the head cheerleader. The Replacements is pure comic genius and the great football action is the icing on this cake.

Goldfinger (1964): Welcome 007! The original action hero brought from the mind of Ian Flemming to the screen by Sean Connery. Goldfinger was well ahead of its time an action packed adventure film, filled with intrigue and the customary tongue and cheek Bond style humor. This movie is so much fun and truly gave birth to the franchise, although it wasn’t the first Bond movie, it was the first one that had effects and capabilities to keep up with it’s brave ideas. Goldfinger is still the consummate super villain played here by Gert Forbe. Who could forget honor Blackman as Pussy Galore.

Spiderman 2 (2004): Not only is Spiderman 2 the greatest superhero movie of all time, but it is also the first superhero film that is great as a movie period. Sam Raimi puts together a story and characters that can keep up with the brilliant and furious special effects show, and that isn’t easy to do. The film is visually stunning with amazingly dramatic fight scenes between Spiderman and Doctor Octopus, weather it is in a bank, or on the side of a building. This is a film with real heart, and the most interesting of the superhero’s because Peter Parker is such an average everyday guy with extraordinary gifts. That theme was a major part of the comic books, and Raimi brings it to the film perfectly here. Parker and his relationship with Mary Jane, and Harry Osborn, and grandma are all complex due to his dual identity and the fine line Parker walks is depicted flawlessly. As a fan of the comic I also feel compelled to mention the casting of J.K Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson, the head of the newspaper. A more perfect fit could not have been made for this memorable character, and thats what makes a great movie great. The special attention to detail right down to the fifth and sixth characters.

The Terminator (1984): A super cool story written and directed by James Cameron. Arnold Schwarzenegger was born to play this part, and he does it to perfection here. The sophisticated robot sent back in time to eliminate Sarah Conner, who would become important to the human resistance in the future. This movie is Sci-Fi at it’s creative best, and was way, way, way ahead of it’s time visually.

Gladiator (2000): An epic picture that resonates with its brutal realities and heart-warming compassions. Gladiator was such a great film, and driven by two of the finest actors in film today in Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. Gladiator is another fine example of a great film that is entertaining, and insightful. The film is spectacular and speaks for itself.

Armageddon (1998): Most picture that Michael Bay are involved in are above average and this is no exception to say the least. I know there are some pretty far out things in place here, but the characters and action are so good, I gladly put all of that aside. Bruce Willis is his usual brilliant self as Harry S. Stamper and his daughter Grace Stamper, played by Liv Tyler are both wonderful. Stamper and his cast of misfit oil drillers are thrust into an opportunity to save the world from impending doom, and they do just that with heroics chemistry and humor. This is one of those pictures that has a little bit of everything, and if you don’t tear up a bit, you just aren’t human. Steve Buscemi and Willaim Fitchner are also great here in supporting roles. Armageddon writes the book on summer blockbusters.

Die Hard (1988): One against many as been tried before, but never as affectively as it is done here. Bruce Willis plays John McClain a N.Y city policeman in the middle of a terrorist threat in L.A. Willis writes McClain as one of our favorite characters of all time, a semi disgruntled cop with skills, and a an iron will. The action is breathtaking and the dialogue is great, maybe no one does snappy one-liners like Willis. John McTiernan again shows us how good he is at directing this kind of pic.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1894): Wes Craven brings us what we had been craving for a long, long time. A scary movie, with a lot of creativity, and originality. A Nightmare on Elm Street brings some great scary scenes and keeps us on the edge of our seat. The character of “Freddy” has been revisited so many times now that it’s hard to remember just how cool an idea this was, but it was just that. The acting is only O.K but the story is engrossing enough to shove that to the side, and make this a true horror classic.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002): Although these are all very good movies, this is the only one that I consider to be flawless. I thought the last installment was long, and poorly edited. The Towers is a very exciting, and magical journey through this wonderfully creative world. The battle simply looks amazing, and the special effects here are second to none. I don’t think it’s the perfect cast and keeps the other two of the trilogy off of my list, but it is a great story and told brilliantly by Peter Jackson.

Top Gun (1986): Again, if Top Gun is on your T.V you watch it. This is just one of those movies that is pure entertainment from start to finish. Directed by Tony Scott, this is first time we have been this interested in an aviation movie, but it’s no wonder because the flight combat scenes here are absolutely breathtaking. Tom Cruise and Anthony Edwards are maybe a little hokey here as the stereotypical best friends, but the film still makes it work and work well. Tom skerritt is also really good here as ‘viper.’ This picture also has an excellent score, and the scenes are paced well with some great original sounds and songs.

Throw Momma from the Train (1987): There is a chance someone out there hasn’t seen this film, and if that is the case get it IMMEDIATELY! This is one of the funniest and most original comedies of all time. Featuring Billy Crystal, Danny Devito, and the hysterical Anne Ramsey. Devito plays Owen, who misinterprets his English teachers talk about a former Hitchcock film as a pack to trade murders. Owen wants Larry Donner, played by Billy Crystal, to kill his mother in exchange for Owen’s murder of Larry’s ex-wife. What keeps Larry from coming to his senses is that Owen’s mother, Anne Ramsey, is so hate able that everyone wants to kill her. This film is pure original comic genius, and the interaction between these three characters is truly great.

Hard Ball (2001): I know this isn’t going to be a popular choice, but I really like this picture. Hard Ball is an intriguing story about a man on the end of his rope, with a severe gambling problem and the little league team he is ordered to coach. Connor O’ Neil is the gambler and his character is fairly complex, this isn’t the typical Bad News Bears scenario. O’Neil is played brilliantly by the surprising Keanu Reeves, and on paper this isn’t a part he can play. Not only does he play it but, he plays it very well. This film takes a lot of twists and turns, and never becomes a typical little league type film, but focuses more on relationships and change. It’s a great movie, and well worthy of it spot here.

Major League (1989): Speaking of baseball movies, this is not to be forgotten. Major League is a hilarious look at ball players, in unusual circumstances. Cast to perfection with Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, Corbin Bernson, Wesley Snipes (before the steroids), and James Gammon. I don’t know how many times I have seen parts of this film, but I know that I have laughed every single time.

The Mothman Prophecies (2002): This may be another unpopular choice, but seldom has a film kept my interests an intently as this one. Mothman is different, and intriguing from start to finish. This movie really has us on the edge of our seats to see what on earth will happen next. Ricahrd Gere is tremendous here as John Klein who is either losing his mind or having supernatural experiences. The bazaar circumstances surrounding his wife’s (Deborah Messing) death take Klein on a strange and very suspenseful chase for the truth, or sanity. This is such a well-made movie, and filmmakers would be hard pressed to be as suspenseful or intriguing as Mothman is. This movie also has a superb surprise ending.

Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo (1999): Rob Schneider is so funny in this comedy, about an unlikely male prostitute. The picture shows a lot of originality with its story, and covers a lot of new jokes, while leaving alone tired old material. Deuce is hilarious without parading out the same old jokes over and over again, as some many comedies do these days. Worth a laugh every time!

The Ring (2002): Perhaps the most pleasantly surprised I have ever been after a film. I didn’t expect much from this horror except the same old, but I got a lot more than that. The Ring even sets us up early for old school type horror. The first scene with a college age girl all seems sort of run of the mill, but this movie quickly changes gears and scares the daylights out of us. Acted extraordinarily well by Naomi Watts, and David Dorfman this film takes horror to the next level. It takes it’s time and build up the suspense and atmosphere to a feverish pitch, and then they pull the rug out with a phenomenal ending. This is a smart horror, and that’s very rare.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989): One of our most beloved characters is teamed up with Sean Connery in this third installment of the franchise. The Last Crusade lives up to the first two films and then some, in an adventure that has yet to be duplicated. Indiana Jones and his father race against the Nazi’s to acquire the Holy Grail. As with all great films the Last Crusade has a touch of everything from action, to humor, and a wonderful cast of secondary characters.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991): James Cameron takes Sci-fi to next level once again with this terrifically entertaining picture. Once again a cyborg from the future has been sent to eliminate the future leader of the human resistance (John Conner) but this time the resistance has sent their own cyborg to protect Conner. The Machines engage in epic battles and some of the best chase sequences ever filmed, and Sarah Conner, played by Linda Hamilton, gets caught up in a very interesting moral dilemma. When faced with the opportunity to stop the machine wars before they happen, she must choose weather or not to accomplish this by killing a man who is far shy of being evil. Great story, amazing visuals, and a ton of imagination.

First Blood (1982): This is another franchise that makes people forget about the ideas of the original. First Blood is a very serious film about John Rambo, played by Sylvester Stallone, and his inability to fit back into civilian life after war. Vietnam was not a popular war, and Rambo finds himself very much helpless despite the fact that he was a hero overseas. The end of this movie has a very compelling dialogue between Rambo and Colonel Troutman, played by Richard Crenna. Rambo expresses his frustrations with a world that won’t take him back into civilized society. This is a too often forgot about and overlooked movie, Stallone is really quite good and the film offers a tremendous story that surely was a real life problem for veterans everywhere.

The Breakfast Club (1985): Maybe no one has ever done a better job of making very funny movies, while sneaking in some big ideas, as does John Hughes. The Breakfast Club is a fascinating character study of the typical high-school mix, as much as it is a hilarious comedy. The film is centered on a Saturday detention with every click represented; Jocks, nerds, beauty queen, misfits, and rebels are all here, and they must interact. The group finds themselves not so different in the grand scheme of things, with parental problems, and inadequacy issues. Although the breakfast club is a buffet worth of laughs, it also serves up some food for thought.

The Rock (1996): Another Michael Bay blockbuster! The rock features Nicholas Cage as Dr. Stanley Goodspeed, and Sean Connery as John Patrick Mason. The two don’t trust each other, but they must work together if they wish to survive and save the west coast from biological attack. Mason is the last living human who knows the former prison Alkatrz, but long imprisoned wrongfully, he is reluctant to help. Goodspeed is a biological expert and must find a way to engage Mason in the mission and shut down the bio-threat. The film is exciting from start to finish, and has some of the best action sequence to this day. The Rock is a thrill ride that is positively unrelenting, and the banter between our heroes’s is positively hilarious. The picture also has a great performance by Ed Harris.

Stand by Me (1986): Rob Reiner brings to life this Stephen King story about boys coming of age. There are many, many stories like this one, but few have been done as well as Stand By Me. A group of young men go in search of the body of a missing boy, and learn a lot about each other and themselves along the way. This film is mostly dialogue driven and is a true credit to Stephen King’s diversity as a writer.

Pet Cemetery (1989): The back-to-back Stephen King credits are not intentional here, but it sure is appropriate. The wonderfully creative story is brought to the big screen with great care. The movie has a wonderfully creepy atmosphere, and is sure to make your neck hair stand on end. An old Indian burial ground has magical properties that will make the dead come back, but they don’t come back the same way. Louis Creed, a grieved father and husband, crosses the line one too many times, despite the warnings from beyond.

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980): Still far ahead of it’s time, this franchise delivers more thrills, and great characters in Princess Layla, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Chewbacca and many others. Here Lucus is brave as our hero’s quest takes a turn for the worse, and the film end on a sad note. Empire Strikes back does a magnificent job of picking up where the first left off as well as leaving us hungry for the next film. The sights and sounds, at the time, were “light years” ahead of what everyone else was doing in movies.

Police Academy (1984): This is another movie that is a victim of its sequels. While the franchise grew into silly PG rated flicks, this original was a comic masterpiece. Steve Guttenburg is terrific as Carey Mahoney, a cadet who is trying desperately to get thrown out of the academy. The very funny G.W. Baily, as Thaddeus Harris, is trying his best to accommodate Mahoney’s wishes. This is such a hysterical comedy with lots of funny adult humor, and lots of funny people. George Gains is also note worthy for his portrayal of the absent-minded commandant Eric Lassard.

National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989): Both of the original two ‘vacation’ movies are very funny, but Christmas vacation takes the cake. One of the funniest movies of all time, as well as one of the best holiday movies to date, Christmas vacation delivers the kind of laugh out loud humor that doesn’t come around very often. Chevy Chase plays the consummate family man in Clark W.Grizzwold. Clark wants desperately to have the perfect holiday for his family, but they just won’t let him. Disaster after hilarious disaster in this original film makes it a true comic classic, and introduces us to our lovable loser cousin Eddie. Think about how many movies have tried to imitate a “cat gag” since Vacation.

Die Hard: With a Vengeance (1995): John Mctiernan directs another great action movie. One of our favorite characters, John McClane, is revisited on a grand scale in this satisfying blockbuster. McClane must parade through N.Y city at the whim of a mad man with a lot of explosives, but he must travel with Zeus Carver, played by Samuel L. Jackson. McClane and carver’s adventures are awesome, as the action heats up early and never cools off. McClane and Carver are also very funny together and explore some race issues in a lighthearted fashion. Die Hard 3 is filled great effects and sounds all in crowded N.Y city, an amazing feet.

Liar Liar(1997): The funniest Jim Carrey film by far! Carrey plays attorney Fletcher Reede, who one day finds himself unable to lie. As you can imagine this posses a particular problem for a lawyer, but especially Fletcher. This movie truly delivers laugh, after laugh, after laugh. Liar, liar is simply a side splitter, and Jim Carrey shows us how funny he can be when he doesn’t get carried away.

The World is not Enough (1999): This is the second James Bond movie to make the list, but this one is special for different reasons. This particular Bond movie is so well put together as an action vehicle, that people who aren’t fans of the franchise will still really enjoy it. The story is particularly good, and even has some unusually clever twists and turns for a 007 film. Pierce Brosnan show us why he is the second best Bond of all time, and his adventures span the globe in this epic spy film.

Unbreakable (2000): Rarely is a movie put together and acted as well as Unbreakable is. Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson are brilliant here as some unique characters. The sorry is awesome and told as only M. Night Syamalan can. Elijah Price (Jackson) has a rare brittle bone disease and he is in search of his opposite. Somewhere in the world must exist a man who is not brittle, but indestructible. Price believes that is David Dunn (Willis) but Dunn is reluctant to accept it. David Dunn is very unhappy and has a poor relationship with his family, but Elijah Price may have the key to everything. There is a lot going on in this film, and the acting is truly superb, and the story is both engrossing and satisfying. If Unbreakable has a fault it’s that it cam after the Sixth Sense, although Unbreakable is a great movie, everything after a true “classic” gets compared to it. In my mind Syamalan more than lived up to the expectations, this is a great film.

Back draft (1991): Another great work by Ron Howard. Back draft is the first and last word on fire-fighter movies. Beautifully written, directed, and acted back draft delivers a great cinematic experience. The action scenes are astounding, and you can almost feel the flames licking your face, and nipping at your feet. William Baldwin, as Brian McCaffery, and Robert Deniro, as Donald Rimgale, are outstanding here as fire inspectors trying to solve a series of arson fires. Kurt Russel is also excellent as “Bull” a firefighter and Baldwin’s older bother. This is an excellent action slash mystery pic, as well as the definitive word on Fireman movies. Donald Sutherland also makes a tremendous contribution here as an arsonist.

Fletch (1985): Chevy Chase invents this hilarious character as only he can. There aren’t many movies that have as many memorable lines and scenes in them as Fletch does. Fletch, an undercover newspaper reporter, stumbles onto an unusual story, when a man dieing of cancer wants to pay Fletch to kill him. The plot grows increasingly complicated and eventually threatens Fetch’s freedom, and life. Fletch must go undercover to uncover this mystery. This is a hilarious mystery/comedy and I could go on all day quoting funny lines but I wouldn’t do justice to Chevy Chase’s original character or remarkable comic timing. The sequel to this film is pretty darn funny, also.

Total Recall (1990): This is an awesome glimpse into the future. Total Recall brings a cool Sci-fi story to the big screen, and takes us from earth to mars, and toys with our sense of reality versus dreams. A wonderfully written script adapted from the work of Philip K. Dick. Douglas Quaid, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, wakes up one day and finds he is not who he thought he was. Having had his memory wiped clean, and a chance to start from scratch, Quaid chooses a different path and undoes the evils of his past. I can’t possibly do justice to the plot here; it’s terrific and takes a lot of cool twists and turns along the way. Sharon Stone, and Michel Ironsides give some nice support in this film, but it is it’s great story that steers the ship.

48 Hrs. (1982): In a lot of ways this is the true birth of the buddy cop style of picture, but it is much grittier than anything that followed it. Policeman Jack Cates, played by Nick Nolte, must team up with inmate Reggie Hammond, played by Eddie Murphy, in order to catch some cop killers. The two have hilarious chemistry but unlike a lot of pictures like this, they really don’t like each other for nearly the entire movie. The two even have a drop down drag out fist-fight, and it isn’t until the very end that Cates and Hammond truly bond. This is an excellent action comedy, and Eddie Murphy is always hysterical.

Back to School (1986): The definitive work of one of the funniest men who ever live, Rodney Dangerfield. Rodney plays Thorton Mellon a middle-aged businessman who decides to return to college to help his son Jason Melon, played by Keith Gordon. Melon can party with the best of them, and has a romance with his English teacher but he must face the music when accused of cheating. Melon has to pull it together and pass a comprehensive oral exam by all of his professors or face expulsion. This is such a funny movie, and Dangerfield is truly at his best. With great one-liners, and funny expression Rodney does comedy across the board in this movie. This movie also features one of the funniest scenes in movie history featuring Sam Kinison.

Star ship Troopers (1997): Paul Verhoeven directs this action sci-fi picture, and it has always been one of my favorites. Starship Troopers was a really action picture set in the distant future, where mankind battles arachnids for interstellar domination. The special effects are positively amazing, and this is the very first DVD I ever watched. Troopers is also a movie that isn’t afraid to have a little fun with itself, with some clever news broadcasts reminiscent of the type in Robocop, the film takes a few shots at itself and has some laughs at people in general. The jokes don’t compromise the action of the picture, so they work together quite well, and our hero Johnny Rico, played by Casper Van Dien, has quite an enjoyable adventure. This film has some very memorable moments when the troopers are in boot camp with career sergeant Zim, portrayed by Clancy Brown.

Rocky (1976): Who ever would have thought the ability to play stupid would pay off such handsome dividends. Sylvester Stallone plays Rocky Balboa a nobody boxer determined to fight his way to the top. It’s a classic picture and Sly is really quite good in it, but did you know that he also wrote it. It’s a well cast film, and a remarkable story of determination and self-improvement.

8 mm (1999): This Joel Schumacher film is much more than it was cracked up to be. Nicolas Cage plays Tom wells a private investigator who’s been hired by a very rich widow. The widow finds a “snuff” (murder/sex) movie in her late husbands things and wants desperately to know that it is not real. Wells set off to find the answers but he very disappointed when he learns the truth. Well’s character changes dramatically and the events that unfold justify it. Well’s character meets the mother of the victim in the movie, and their interactions are done amazingly well. Well’s wants desperately to share information with the mother who is uncertain of her daughter’s actual fate, but the circumstances do not allow him to completely come clean. The film is thoroughly thought provoking and begs the question of weather or not men can change for the worse even if for the right reasons. There is also an interesting appearance in this movie by a very young Joaqin Phoenix as Max California.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992): Dracula was finally given the treatment it deserves in this epic re-telling of an old classic. More interesting origins on the prince of darkness are given and lend the story even more mystery and intrigue than ever before. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable vampire film, and its atmosphere is truly outstanding. Down to the last detail Dracula’s castle is both creepy and fantastically supplied with detail and imagination. There are several excellent performances here also Anthony Hopkins plays Abraham Van Helsing, and Winona Ryder in phenomenal as Mina Eisabeta.

Jerry Maguire (1996): The first and only movie I can remember being focused on a sports super-agent. Jerry Maguire suffers an attack of conscience one day and gets fired form his corporate job, and must start over as a company onto himself. Unfortunately Jerry’s only client is the insatiable Rod Tidwell, played by Cuba Gooding Jr. Maguire eventually falls into a relationship with his only employee Dorothy Boyd, played by Renee Zellweger, but most learn to truly appreciate what he’s got before he can really love her back. This movie is hip, smart, funny, heart warming, and entertaining. An all around great movie centered on some unique characters.

Twister (1996): The mother of all natural disaster films! Twister is an excellent thrill ride and a foray into some rarely portrayed characters…storm chasers. Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton headline this very nice cast, and their adventures in studying and escaping tornados are awesome. Some of this movies sights and sounds are among the most impressive in movie history.

Platoon (1986): Oliver Stone brings this amazing Vietnam story to us through the eyes of a young and green volunteer played by Charlie Sheen. Sheen’s character, Chris Taylor, learns about the horrors of war the hard way and must choose a path of either loyalty or survival when push comes to shove. Tom Berenger is amazing in this film as SSgt. Bob Barnes, and William Dafoe is also outstanding as Elias Grodin. Although this picture doesn’t always have the best dialogue it is superbly acted and put together making the final product a great movie.

Red Dragon (2002): This prequel to Silence of the Lambs tells the story of the toothy fairy killer. Retired FBI agent, and expert profiler Will Graham, played by Edward Norton Jr., Must use his special abilities to think like the killer, in order to find the tooth fairy. Graham also must communicate with the diabolical Hannibal Lector, played by Anthony Hopkins, to help solve the case before more people die. This is fantastic psychological thriller/mystery, and some of the tactics Will Graham employs in profiling the killer are really interesting and depicted in a super cool way in this movie. Suspenseful from start to finish, and a showcase for Edward Norton Jr.

Speed (1994): You’d be lying if you didn’t thoroughly enjoy this unique roller coaster ride on a bus. Officer Jack Traven is a cop caught up in the clever scheme of a madman. Howard Payne, played by Dennis Hoper, who has wired a crowded public bus to explode should the bus’s speed slip beneath fifty miles an hour. The film is set at a frantic pace, and also features the talents of Sandra Bullock and Jeff Daniels. This is as exciting a movie as there is, and director Jan de Bont keeps it as a fever pitch throughout, and finds some really creative ways make things interesting all through this wild ride.

Spies Like US (1985): “Good golly miss molly?” if you don’t recognize that quote than you are missing out on one of the funniest films I can remember. John Landis directs this film about the most unlikely team of spies, who are supposed to fail. Austin Millbarge, played by Dan Ayroyd, and Emmett Fitz-Hume, played by Chevy Chase are supposed to be decoys to distract the enemy, but they might just bumble their way into saving the world. This film was written by Dave Thomas, and Dan Aykeroyd and is every bit as funny as those two men. Chase and Aykeroyd are magic together, and their “cheating test” scene is one of the most hilarious scenes is movie history. This is one of few pictures that make you laugh out every single time you see it.

Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991): This perfect retelling of a timeless classic surely deserves a spot on my list. It’s not easy to re-tell a tale that has been told a thousand times over, but here it is done masterfully with the help of Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, and Marian Dubois as Maid Marion.

Outbreak (1995): Wolfgang Peterson directs this super charged thriller, about a major viral threat that could wipe out the entire country. Col. Sam Daniels, played by Dustin Hoffman, and Maj. Salt, played by Cuba Gooding Jr., are poised to find a cure but they stumble onto an even bigger threat as the military is trying desperately to cover their own tracts in a weapons scandal. Morgan Freeman and Donald Sutherland both give knockout performances as military men, and Rene Russo is very good also. This is great movie and worthy of our attention for certain.

Ghost Busters (1984): This unique and satisfying comedy, and is well worth more than a few watches. This comedy directed by Ivan Reitman delivers big laughs and great special effects in a kind of movie we had never seen before. Dr. Peter Venkman, played by Bill Murray and Dr. Raymond Stantz, played by Dan Aykeroyd headline a great cast of comics. Harlod Ramis is terrific as the straight man here playing Dr. Egon Spenglar. Rick Moranis, and Sigourney Weaver are also very funny in this. Ghost Busters is a true classic and a stand-alone type of film, because it really is something that has never been done before.

Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995): A fabulous film and the definitive work for Richard Dreyfuss. A high school music teacher finds himself and direction as he inspires his students, in this fabulous drama about life and art. This film has a lot of great moments but the scene where the school is considering cutting the music budget always sticks out in my mind:

Vice Principal Wolters: I care about these kids just as much as you do. And if I'm forced to choose between Mozart and reading and writing and long division, I choose long division. Glenn Holland: Well, I guess you can cut the arts as much as you want, Gene. Sooner or later, these kids aren't going to have anything to read or write about

77. Unforgiven (1992): Clint Eastwood writes and directs this tale of the true old west. A gritty and realistic tale of killing, and its consequences. Clint Eastwood plays William Bill Munny a retired gunslinger that must revisit his evil ways in the name of good? Gene Hackman plays the local law, and pursues Munny in his crooked little town. Unforgiven is an amazing film that really visits the concepts of hero’s and villains and the fine line in between. Morgan Freeman also gives his usual excellent performance as Ned Logan.

78. The Nutty Professor (1996): A hilarious comedy that truly showcases the comedic talents of Eddie Murphy. Eddie Murphy plays ten different parts, and each one of them is very funny in their own way. It’s really a remarkable feet, Eddie Murphy is able to create a cast of hilarious individuals all by himself. The main character Professor Sherman Klump is obsessed with weight loss and gives himself an experimental drug to be slim. The drug has severe personality side affects, and the hilarity ensues. Nutty Professor 2 was also quite funny.

79. My Cousin Vinny (1992): Here is another comedy that truly resonates with me. Here the very funny but seldom utilized comic talents of Joe Pesci Marisa Tomei are front in center in this film about a couple of kids wrongfully accused of murder. Their only hope is a city guy named Vincent Gambini (Pesci) who has never actually practiced trial law. The judge overseeing the case is played by Fred Gwynne and the interactions between him and Gambini are priceless. This movie has some of my favorite courtroom scenes of all time not only because they are funny, but some of the story here is pretty darn clever also.

80. RoboCop (1987): Awesome is the first word that comes to mind in this sci-fi cop movie. In the future corporation own and operate the police, and have devised a way to make more efficient cops. The first test is deceased Alex Murphy, played by Peter Weller, after he is murdered in brutal graphic fashion his body is used to become the first cyborg policeman. This movie has a lot of great kick-ass action sequences and a really nice villain played by Kurtwood Smith. Robocop is much more than a testosterone charged action movie though, as RoboCop slowly regains fragments of his memory he must come to grips with the loss of his family, and the fact that he is no longer a man. The film is put together exceptionally well by director Paul Verhoeven.

81. Jurassic Park (1993): This Steven Spielberg film was quite a sight the first time we saw it. Bringing amazingly realistic dinosaurs to life on the big screen, and a very nice cast of actors including the always-entertaining Jeff Goldbloom. When Dinosaur island suffers a security breech everyone there must fight through the jungle for their lives, and only paleontologist Dr. Allen Grant, played by Sam Neil, has the background to survive these predators. A terrific adventure movie with great dialogue courtesy of Goldblooom, although all of it’s sequels were less than great.

82. L. A. Confidential (1997): This crime story is an acting bonanza. Featuring Russell Crow, Danny Devito, Kevin Spacey, Guy Pearce, James Cromwell, and Kim Basinger this cast couldn’t fail no matter what the script was, but fortunately for us it’s a dam good one. Three different cops try to solve the same crime; all in their own unique styles, and the plots takes many wonderful twists and turns. This is truly a great police story.

83. Kingpin (1996): A true comic classic, Kingpin comes up with more unique gags, and interesting jokes that make us laugh time and time again. Roy Munson, played by Woody Harelson, is a former star bowler who hope to ride a new prodigy to riches in Ishmael Boorg, played by Randy Quaid. Boorg is Amish and Muson is deplorable so you can imagine the contrast, and things only get better when the two have to compete against Ernie McCracken, played by Bill Murray. There is nothing I like better than a comedy that comes up with something different and special as opposed to say….Mr. Deeds an ordinary guy who inherits a billion dollars!! Wow, Mr. Sandler, did you write that in the bathroom?

84. Spaceballs (1987): I think everyone knew that sooner or later Star Wars would get the parody treatment, but only Mel Brooks could have made it quite this funny. Rick Moranis, John Candy, and Bill Pullman all-star in this hilarious spoof of the star wars franchise. Brooks had made many very funny films including: Robin Hood Men in Tights, but this is by far his best work.

85. The Abyss (1989): James Cameron directs this sci-fi adventure and puts new twits on the underwater film. A team of civilian divers encounter an aquatic race of aliens, and their lives are put at risk. The team faces both alien and human threats as mental stability and stress take their toll on the teams well being. Ed Harris plays Virgil Brigman and must try to keep his troops inline while stopping Lt. Coffey, played by Michael Biehn, from killing everyone with his dementia. This is a really, really neat pic, and it has a lot of mystery surrounding it that makes it even better. Cameron chooses not to be heavy handed while unraveling the mysteries and it really paid off and let us concentrates on the people more and their circumstance.

86. Million Dollar Baby (2004): Directed and starred in by Clint Eastwood, this is not you everyday sports movie, but rather a film about relationships and their fray or repair. Frankie Dunn (Eastwood) is and old boxers manager and he is reluctant to take eon the eager Maggie Fitzgerald, played by Hillary Swank, but eventually he does the two form a very close relationship. Dunn is completely estranged from his own daughter so for him this is an opportunity to prove to himself that he can have that sort of relationship with a woman. When Maggie gets seriously injured Dunn musty deal with her impending loss, and the unspeakable favor she asks of him. This is just another fantastic movie filled with great story and great performances across the board. There are some truly magical scenes here with Dunn and Eddie Dupris, played by Morgan Freeman, that are just amazing. The two of them on screen together is phenomenal and a story is told through tremendous dialogue and direction by Eastwood.

87. Pirates of the Caribbean: The curse of the Black Peal (2003): When the term Swashbuckler was first coined, this is the film it had in mind. It’s a big film with a big imagination, and larger than life characters. Johnny Deep is positively entertaining as Captain Jack Sparrow, and Orlando Bloom is wonderful as Will turner. There are a lot of great, and fun performances here; Geoffrey Rush, Keira Knightly, and Jack Davenport are all great. It’s a big time adventure movie that really doesn’t disappoint. I definitely file this under my most pleasant surprises file.

88.The Matrix (1999): What if humans were kept alive in a computer simulation to later be fed on by an alien race? Pretty neat huh? The Matrix explores this and many other nifty ideas in the film that breathed new life into the science fiction world. Keanu Reeves does a nice job here as Neo, and Lawrence Fishburne plays the intriguing Morpheus. Fishburne is a very underrated actor and he is superb in this picture as well as its sequels. The Matrix is a very cool movie that had the perfect ideas for our current computer age wonderment.

89. A Few Good Men (1992): Directed by Rob Reiner this movie centers on the mysterious death of a military man. Lt. Daniel Caffey, played by Tom Cruise, is the lead counsel for two marines accused of murder and he must get to the truth in what seems like a giant cover-up involving high-ranking officers. Kieffer Sutherland, and Jack Nicholson are absolutely outstanding here as high ranking officers standing in Caffeys way. Kevin Pollock and Demi Moore are also very good. This is a terrific courtroom drama with superb acting, great story telling, and a pinch of comic relief.

90. Day of the Dead (1985): We have to pay homage to the king of the zombie movie and his masterpiece. George A. Romero writes and directs this haunting picture about a group of military officers in an underground bunker while the rest of the world has been overrun by the un-dead. There are no good performances here, but the suspense and effects more than make up for it, in this gruesome horror. Day of the Dead is one of those films that resonates “spook” in you long after you have watched it. A true classic horror, and the best zombie movie by far.

91. One Crazy Summer (1986): An aspiring teenage cartoonist and his friends come to the aid of a singer trying to save her family property from developers. The cartoonist is Hoops McCann, played by John Cusack and the singer, Cassandra, is a very young Demi Moore. This is a very funny film with many memorable scenes, especially the sadistic developer who practices his crossbow by pinning a live lobster to a moving target. Bob Goldthwait is also really funny here, as this misfit team must try to win a boat race in order to save Cassandra’s very nice ass. If your in the mood for a laugh and have never seen this, I highly recommend it.

92. Sleepy Hollow (1999): This Tim Burton film is the re-telling of a well-known and classic tale. This tale gets the new school treatment, and it comes across exceedingly well. The always-interesting Johnny Deep has the lead here as Ichabood Crane and he delivers a very interesting character. Christina Ricci is also great here as Katrina Van Tassel. Tim Burton does such a good job of giving his all of his films a unique and identifying look and feel to them, and Sleepy Hollow is no exception. It’s an old tale but Burton makes it new and truly makes it his own story.

93. The Last Boys scout (1991): Maybe this is a guilty pleasure, but this is such a fun movie to me Great action, and absolutely hilarious dialogue from start to finish. Private eye Joe Hallenbeck, played by Bruce Willis, must team up with former pro-quarterback Jimmy Dix, played by Damon Wayans, in order to solve multiple homicides. The pair quickly gets in over their heads, and have to fight their way out. Non-stop action and funny one-liners makes this movie one giant hour and a half long smile.

94. Gothika (2003): I know I am in the minority on this one, but I absolutely love this picture. I love the idea, I love the atmosphere, I love the pacing, and I love the actors. Halle Berry plays therapist Miranda Grey who wakes up one day as an inmate at an insane asylum with no recollection of how she got there, or why? This is a masterfully crafted ghost story with plenty of suspense, scares, and plot twists. I though it was creepy and very smart for a ghost movie. Also good here is Robert Downey Jr. as Pete Graham.

95. Life of Brian (1979): An all out comedy brought to us by the Monty Python comedy troop. Biran is born next door to Jesus and is mistaken throughout his life as the messiah. This is a really, really funny movie with some of the most memorable scenes in history, such as the “stoning” and “Bikus Dickus.”

96. Clerks (1994): If you haven’t seen clerks I really feel sorry for you. Written and directed by Kevin Smith, this film consisted of virtually no budget, or sets of any kind. The film surrounds a day in the lives of two convenience store clerks; Dante, and Randall. This film is really good, and has some very funny people in it. Because there is virtually no budget the dialogue has to be crisp and funny, and it is. Clerks and the films that followed have become cult classics, but only this original made my list.

97. The Exorcist (1973): It’s hard to believe they made such a scary movie back in 1973, but they did. The Exorcist is one of those films that was so well made moviemakers have been trying to copy it or sequel it for decades, but they all fall painfully short. Ellen Burstyn, Max Von Sydow, and Jason Miller are all good in this.

98. Aliens (1986): No great surprise here James Cameron is the director. This second installment of the Alien series has mankind on the hunt to exterminate the Aliens for good, but a corrupt scientist wants to take some back alive. Everything falls apart, and the crew is soon fighting for their lives with no way out. Sigourney Weaver of course plays Ellen Ripley again. Carrie Henn is remarkable here as ‘newt’ a little girl who had survived on her own in the alien infested station for years. Michael Biehn, Bill Paxton, and Lance Henriksen (cyborg) are all very good in this film also. This is such an exciting Sci-fi picture that took a bold new direction from the first. This film doesn’t pretend to try to be scary it is all out action right from start, and excellent action at that.

99. Rush Hour (1998): This is probably the second most pleasantly surprised I have been in a movie theatre. Directed by Brett Ratner this movie delivers great action scenes, and an unbelievable amount of laughs to go with them. Detective James Carter, played by Chris Tucker, must team up with Chief Inspector Lee, played by Jackie Chan, to investigate the kidnapping of the Chinese counsels daughter. The FBI only wants Carter to keep Lee out of trouble, but Carter and Lee are intent on solving the case. Watching Jackie Chan do his stunts is worth the price of admission all by itself, but mixed with the hilarious banter between him and the flamboyant Chris Tucker, and you have a recipe for entertainment. Rush Hour 2 was also very good, not on this list but pretty close

100. Bad Santa (2003): Funny doesn’t quite say it. This is one of the funnier films in years, as you may have noticed there aren’t a lot of comedies on this list from 2000 or beyond. Bad Santa came up with a unique concept, and then pushed their extreme characters to the very, very limits. It’s not just outrageous material it’s also clever, and Billy bob Thorton’s character has been set up in such a way that you expect most of it from him. So it isn’t all about shock value, the writing is pretty crisp here. Bernie Mac, and Tony Cox (midget) are both very funny in this also.

101. Signs (2002): Another Shyamalan masterpiece. M. Night has turned a strange corner for me where anything he does I anticipate eagerly. I have rarely felt that way about directors, but Syamalan has become the must see director in film today. Signs is another amazing installment into his impressive body of thriller/suspense and it doesn’t disappoint. Signs does such an excellent job of building the suspense and making things increasingly interesting, even through only one on one dialogues. This is an awesome movie before the plot twits, and that’s something I don’t feel enough people appreciate. Graham Hes, played by Mel Gibson, is a former reverend and simple farmer who one day discovers crop circles on his land. Despite Graham’s attempts to explain it away, it becomes increasingly apparent that an alien invasion is imminent. Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, Rory Culkin, and Abigail Breslin are all superb.

102. X-Men (2000): Rarely is the treatment of a superhero movie quite this good, with the exception of Spiderman. X-Men does justice to its comic origins and brings some difficult characters to the silver screen. Professor Charles Xavier, played by Patrick Stewart, runs the academy for the gifted (mutants). Xavier and his X-Men aren’t accepted by the human race in kid, but when humanity is threatened the will fight for humans. All of the parts were cast very well, especially Logan, played by Hugh Jackman.

103. The Last Samurai (2003): Tom Cruise plays Nathan Algren, an American military advisor hired to hunt Samurai’s. Algren is captured and eventually learns to embrace the culture he was once being payed to destroy, as well as a lesson in true honor. Algren also forges a special relationship with Katsumoto, played by Ken Watanabe, among other villagers. Last Samurai is an excellent all around film about culture, people and decisions. The cinematography is the film is also brilliant, as are the epic battles.

104. Poltergeist (1982): This classic thrill machine is anything but your typical haunted house movie, although that is the simple premise. Steven Spielberg wrote the story and it is a calculating, suspense building mechanism that fires on all cylinders. Is there anything more recognizable in all of horror films than that little girl and the television? Craig T. Nelson is great in this movie; I will never understand why Nelson isn’t in more films.

105. A Knight’s Tale (2001): I know this wasn’t a very popular movie, but I really fell in love with it. It has all the elements of a classic fairy tale with all of the wit and sophistication of modern times. Sir William Thatcher, played by Heath Ledger, is a simple squire who takes his masters identity after his untimely demise. With the help of his friends; Roland, played by Mark Addy, and Wat Falhurst, played by Alan Tudyk, Thatcher aspires to become the best jouster in all of the land. This is really a great movie filled with laughs and fun, and is truly the magical fairy tale it claims to be. You may recognize Roland he is currently the star of the T.V show “Still Standing.” Also worth mentioning is Paul Bettany who is very good as Chaucer.

106.Minority Report (2002): This is great imagination at work. Steven Spielberg directs this adapted short fiction work by Philip K. Dick. Imagine a future where three psychics can predict every murder that will happen, and the police can stop the crimes before they start. That’s the premise here until one day Chief John Anderton, played by Tom Cruise, is flagged for a future murder. Anderton must now run for his life, and attempt solve the mystery of who and why he is going to kill someone. This film is inventive, fun, and exciting from tail to tail. The picture is also gorgeous with the most realistic future world throughout the film. I recently saw “Ultra-violet” which is also set in the future but really looked fake, so I appreciate the effects here even more.

107.Independence Day (1996): Often referred to simply as ID4 this is the definitive full-scale alien invasion movie. Completely overrun and desperate, the human race must mount one more desperate assault on the alien invaders or be completely exterminated. This is a really cool movie, with outstanding sound, visuals, and not a bad little story either. Will smith and Jeff Goldbloom are very good on screen together, and Bill Pullman is terrific as the President. Robert Loggia is also noteworthy as general Grey.

108. The Postman (1997): Not a lot of people liked this film, but I happen to think it is phenomenal. This film has the most wonderfully creative story and builds a truly unique and thought provoking experience. The Postman, played by Kevin Costner, lives in a wasteland that is post-apocalyptic America. Those few villages that remain intact do not allow visitors for security, and resource reason. The postman begins to use the mail as a means to enter these towns and simply eat, but this con game quickly turns into a means to rebuild civilization. This is an outstanding movie, and I strongly urge people to see it for themselves. I know many critics have said bad things about this film, but you really have to judge this one for yourself.

109. The Others (2001): Nichole Kidman plays Grace Stewart a woman who lives in a darkened house with her two light sensitive children. Stewart quickly becomes convinced that her family is being haunted, and her housekeeper is suspiciously calm. This is a super-cool ghost movie, because it isn’t even remotely typical. A wonderfully written story, with twists that would make our friend M. Night jealous. Nicole Kidman is positively delightful in this movie, and she is on screen for nearly all of it.

110. Master and commander: The far side of the world (2003): Peter Weir directs, and movies don’t get much better than this. Russell Crowe plays Captain Jack Aubrey a British sea captain. Aubrey is chasing after a French war vessel, and his obsession becomes reminiscent of Mobey Dick. With his crew exhausted and his supplies dwindling Aubrey pushes on to the far reaches of South America. Just an outstanding movie, with terrific performances across the board, and some wonderful visuals. The film really looks and feels like it’s time period, and the battle scenes are positively breathtaking.

111. The Fugitive (1993): This is one of those rare cases where an old T.V show got the royal treatment, and actually lived up to it’s billing. Dr. Richard Kimble, played by Harrison Ford, has been falsely accused of murdering his wife and when unusual circumstances grant his freedom he is free to investigate. Tommy Lee Jones plays Marshall Samuel Gerrard who will stop at nothing to capture Kimble. I love this picture; Jones and Ford are both awesome as usual. Harrison Ford really makes this part work with his unique ability to be believable as both rugged and intellectual at the same time. I know I mention this before, but it’s a rare trait. Think of Ford in “Patriot games,” or “clear and Present Danger,” how many actors would be good in those roles?

112. Mystic River (2003): A true achievement in film making as Clint Eastwood dispels all doubts about his prowess as a director. Jimmy Markum, played by Sean Penn, has lost his daughter to a brutal murder. The murder is a mystery but Markum will stop at nothing to seek his own style of revenge. Dave Boyle, played by Tim Robbins, was a childhood friend of Markum but is also a prime suspect in the investigation. Kevin Bacon plays Sean Devine the lead police investigator. I can’t possibly do the plot justice with a snapshot because this is one complicated and careful woven script. All of the characters here are wonderfully complex and beyond intriguing. The dialogue is superb, and all of the performances are amazing, but especially Tim Robbins. Eastwood does a fantastic job of making this film, I really love the way he uses shadows to make us focus on two characters faces during particularly important conversations.

113. Saw (2004): It’s rare that I see a horror movie these days that has even an ounce of originality in it, so you can imagine my delight at Saw. Adam, played by Leigh Wannell, and Dr. Lawrence Gordon, played by Cary Elwes wake up chained in dingy bathroom with a dead body between them. They are captive of “the jigsaw killer” and are forced to play his sadistic games, as well as trying to figure out why they are there. I really love this movie because it does more than just try to scare us; a nice job of building suspense and even mystery is paid attention to in this smart horror. As we eventually learn about the jigsaw killer himself a pretty interesting, and satisfying back-story is learned about him. This is what horror should always be about, not just gross out material, but also suspense, and tension.

114. Broken Arrow (1996): John woo directs this action lovers delight and makes a movie for the shoot-em up fan in all of us. Maj. Vi Deakins, played by John Travolta, has stolen nuclear warhead off a military plane, but his co-pilot Capt. Riley Hale, played by Christian Slater, is determined to foil his plans. This is just supercharged action entertainment at it’s best. John Travolta is so good a playing the villain, and he really energizes this movie. This film has some of the best gun battles in movie history in it, well worth more than one entertaining watch.

115. Old School (2003): Ahhh the college comedy isn’t quite dead yet! Mitch Martin, played by Luke Wilson, is fed up with life and with the help of his friends he will revisit his college days as a party animal. Vince Vaughn is laugh out loud funny every single time he’s on the screen, and Will Farrell is also very funny. I really like Will Farrell when he’s a third character, but not much more than that. Luke Wilson makes the perfect lead here; he’s funny but not silly. Think about Seinfeld for a moment. That focus can’t be too off the wall or it will make everything too ridiculous.

116. The Mask of Zorro (1998): Another excellent job of retelling a classic tale. Antonio Bederas plays Zorro but before he can put on the mask he is trained by the best in Anthony Hopkins. Benderas and Hopkins are really fun together in this movie, and picture is a wonderful adventure full of terrific sword fights and chase scenes. Zorro is hell bent of revenge, but manages to learn a little something about giving along the way.

117. Troy (2004): Wolfgang Peterson directs this adoption Homer’s classic work. This film is both amazing in it’s visual effects but also in it’s clever handling of the Greek mythology behind the story. This film does a really great job of alluding to some of the magical qualities of some of the characters, like Achilles, without making it seem totally absurd, and that was a task. The battle scenes are truly epic, especially the fight between Achilles, played by Bad Pitt, and Hector, played by Eric Banna. There are some fairly nice characters here too and plenty of time was spent developing them between fight scenes. There is one particularly great scene where Priam, played by Peter O’ Toole, has snuck into the enemy camp to beg Achilles for the body of his son, whom Achilles dragged off with him after vanquishing him.

118. Hellraiser (1987): Written and directed by Clive Barker this is a horror classic. Frank Cotton meddled with a cube that was the gateway to hell and brutally, and for all of eternity, damned to suffer. A freak accident brings Cotton back to life but he must feed on human flesh to fully restore himself. Frank’s brother wife is obsessed with him and aids in his restoration. There are no performances worth mentioning here, but it’s a terrific story and a real skin crawler. This film will have you wincing in no time at all. Clive Barker knows how to tell a dark tale but if his work has a fault at all it’s that it was more ambitious than the times allowed for special effects.

119. The Majestic (2001): This is truly a great film. I never thought I would be praising Jim Carrey in a drama but he truly earns it here. Peter Appleton (Jim Carrey) gets into a bad car accident and suffers from amnesia. Appleton wins up in a strange town where he is mistaken for a couples long lost son. Appleton winds up engaging the entire town in a project to restore an old movie theatre, and along the way gains clues as to his true identity. This is a wonderful and imaginative picture ripe with great dialogue and a great old fashioned feel to its retro-world. The Majestic is worthy of a lot more applause than it got.

120. Training Day (2001): Jake Hoyt, played by Ethan Hawke, is working on his first day at a new job. His partner is Det. Alanzo Harris, played by Denzel Washington, and Hoyt quickly learns that corruption and illegality runs deep between Harris and all of his associates. This is a really neat movie, for the most part it is like an episode of the shield with great action scenes, but then there is something that most action pictures don’t have. This movie brings two really powerful performances by Denzel Washington, and Ethan Hawke. A great action movie powered by huge performances is always a treat.

121. Full Metal Jacket (1987): Stanley Kubricks Full Metal Jacket is an interesting look at how war changes people. Private Joker, played by Mathew Modine, is the focus and the real stabilizing force in this picture as we see the people around him truly become less and less human. From boot camp to war this film studies the dehumanizing effects of combat on people. This is a great film with great acting across the board, and it’s a pretty big cast at that. Also, who could ever forget Gunnery sergeant Hartman, played by R. Lee Ermey.

122. Miracle (2004): How can we possibly ignore this terrific treatment of one of the most important sporting events in the history of athletics. Remember Al Michaels? Miracle is the story of Coach Herb Brook and his U.S Olympic Hockey team who played and defeated the Invincible Russian team in 1980. There was more than gold medals at stake in 1980, the cold war was hotter than ever, and Russians and Americans wanted nothing more than to beat each other at anything. Kurt Russell plays Herb Brooks and he is outstand in this picture as the demonstrative hockey coach. Goalie Jim Craig is a troubled young man, and he is played very well by Edie Cahill. One scene in this film I am particularly fond of is when Brooks sees that game is really won he rushes into the tunnel all alone, and in disbelief, and finally lets it all out. I though that was a nice touch because we have heard of that moment for years from the real Herb Brooks when recounting that amazing game.

123. North by Northwest (1959): This Alfred Hitchcock classic is chock full of so many great elements I don’t even know where to begin. Roger Thornhill, played by Cary Grant, is mistaken for a spy and kidnapped by the bad-guys who try to kill him. The threats on Thorhill persist and he now must run for his life, as well try to track down the man for whom he is mistaken. This story takes many wild and interesting twists and turns, and the plot truly thickens with each one. Mystery, suspense, action, romance, humor, its all here and in no short supple either. This film is a real treat to any movie fan, and although it was made in 1959 it has the feel of modern film, and is even risqué certainly for it’s time. Some of the best parts of this movie are the courting scenes between Thornhill and Eve Kendall, played by Eva Maria Saint. The banter between Grant and Saints is fantastic.

124. Behind enemy Lines (2001): Lt. Chris Burnett, played by Owen Wilson, is shot down in enemy territory and is ruthlessly pursued by the enemy there. Admiral Leslie Reigert, played by Gene Hackman, wants to rescue his pilot, but his hand are tied due to a deadly game of world politics. This movie is so much better than anyone thinks it is, just because Wilson’s is the star doesn’t mean this isn’t a serious drama/action picture, because it is. Behind enemy lines is very exciting with great action survival scenes, but it is also an interesting character study of the men who let politics threaten Burnett’s life. Some of the best scenes in the movie are between Admiral Reigert, and admiral Piquet (United Nations head honcho), played by Joaquim de Almeda, as they battle about red-tape with a life in the balance. I strongly recommend giving this flick a second look if you have already scene it. There is more here than it would seem upon first glance.

125. Big Fish (2003): Will Bloom, played by Billy Crudup, is facing the impending death of his father, whom he feels he knows nothing about. Will relives all of his father’s stories, and tall tales and soon learns that there is a lot of information about his dad in those stories when you stop and listen. Ed Bloom, played by Albert Finney, is the father. This is a magical story, not just about fairy tale like stories, but also about the bond between father and son, and the mending of old wounds. Tim Burton does what he does best in this picture by immersing us in a world far away, but never so far that we can’t think about our own lives in some way.

126. Pearl Harbor (2001): Although much maligned by the critics I thought this was a true masterpiece. Pearl Harbor immerses us in the lives of some very good characters, and then recounts their part in the only attack on American soil in history. The bombing scene in this film is among the most fantastic pieces of film I have ever scene with amazing effects and tremendous detail. Although I have heard many complaints about the romance element in this movie, I personally thought it was done quite well and made audiences really invest in these characters. Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale are all superb in this picture. Cuba Gooding Jr. also has a very nice part here, although limited. This is another film that I think the critics blacklisted for everyone, but I suggest a fresh view having put Ebert and Roeper out of your minds.

127. Meet the Parents (2000): Male nurse Greg Focker, played by Ben Stiller, must spend a week with his girlfriends parents before proposing. But weeks with the Byrnes family, Robert Deniro and Teri Polo, may make him reconsider his courtship. This is a really, really funny movie with plenty of fresh gags and all of the great dialogue we expect from Stiller. Deniro is the perfect nightmare father in law and he really powers all of the funny stuff in this picture. I will never forget the scene with grandma Byrnes ashes in it, this is just classic stuff.

128. Sling Blade (1996): Karl Childers, played by Billy Bob Thornton, is a simple man who has been hospitalized since the death of his mother. Childers try’s to make a new life as best he can given his disability, in a small town, but things get complicated when he meets a young boy who is in much the same circumstance as he was as a youngster. This is really an amazing movie, and Billy Bob Thornton doesn’t get anywhere near as much attention as he deserved for it. In my opinion Thornton’s role here is far superior to Tom Hanks portrayal of a handicapped man in Forrest Gump.

129. Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988): How can I not mention this groundbreaking movie? Remember, when this film first cam out it was unbelievable!! No one had ever before combined live action and cartoon before, and it was truly amazing in this movie. Directed by Robert Zemeckis this man versus toon story is really a classic. Bob Hoskins, plays Eddie Valiant, and Christopher Lloyd plays “Judge Doom” they are both perfect for this film, and really make this crazy idea work for all ages.

130. Enemy at the Gates (2001): During the battle of Stalingrad a Russian sniper named Vassili Zaitsev, played by Jude Law, gave hope to his country and became a national hero. The best German sniper Maj. Konig, played by Ed Harris, would stop at nothing to squash Vassili and with him Russia’s hope. This is a really great movie that a lot of people have never seen. The deadly art of snipers and their hunt for each other came off as both different and highly exciting. Jude Law is tremendous, as is Ed Harris in this untold story of the war. Rachael Weisz is also outstanding as Vassili’s love interest.

131. The Mummy (1999): Rick ‘O’ Connell, played by Brendan Frasier, along with Evelyn Carnahan, played by Rachael weisz, must stop the Mummy before hell on earth ensues. This is one of those pull out all the stops, span the globe adventure films, except this one unlike so many others truly entertains. The great thing about the Mummy is that it has all of those really interesting secondary characters like; John Hannah, Kevin O’ Conner, and Oded Fehr that really make an adventure like this work. Frasier is really good in this role, and it’s a very fun adventure, it’s not Indiana Jones, but it’s the best thing since.

132. Highlander (1986): This is a great movie, with a terrifically cast group of actors. Connor McLeod, played by Christopher Lambert, is an immortal. McLeod finds himself on the streets of New York City in modern times (1980’s) being pursued by another powerful immortal. The only way an immortal can really be killed is if his head is cut clean from his body, and then another immortal can absorb his essence. “There can be only one.” It’s a very interesting story and Lambert was made for this role. McLeod has flashbacks to his day in Scotland where his mentor, Juan Remirez, played by Sean Connery, taught him how to use a sword. The scenes with Lambert and Connery are really fantastic, and the fact that some mystery if left to these immortals adds to the charm of this sci-fi classic.

133. When Harry met Sally (1989): Directed by Rob Reiner this picture is not just a romantic story, but also more a fascinating study in human behavior, body language, and mind games. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan make some unforgettable movie moments in this romantic comedy that filmmakers have been trying feebly to duplicate ever since.

134. The Man Without a Face (1993): Young Chuck Norstadt, played by Nick Stahe, desperately wants to leave home and go off to school but bad grades prevent him from doing so. One day Norstadt discovers a badly disfigured former teacher who lives in relative seclusion from people. The teacher is Justin McLeod, played by Mel Gibson, and although he is reluctant he eventually decides to help Norstadt. I know this movie is anything but original, and you can see the plot coming long before I tell you what happens. The town thinks McLeod is a monster because of his looks and his mythical checkered past and he must prove himself as a human being. The plot being what it is, this is still a great movie, mostly thanks to the knock your socks off acting of Gibson, as well as his direction of this picture. It’s really quite a good watch despite its shortcoming in story.

135. House on Haunted Hill (1999): Millionaire Stephen Price, played by Geoffrey Rush, offers a group of total strangers one million dollars to spend the night in haunted house. Not terribly original material here, but there is some innovation. There are some of the creepiest scenes horror films have seen in a great long time. Not just a mindless slasher film, this movie takes the time to develop really scary lingering scenes. If you’re looking for some Goosebumps, look no further.

136. Midnight Run (1988): Jack Walsh, played by Robert Deniro, is a bounty hunter who must transport Joathan Mardukas, played by Charles Grodin, across country. Unfortunately for Walsh the F.B.I, mafia, and competing bounty hunters also want Mardukas for themselves. This is a great action/comedy that brings some pretty unique situations to us, and with two fine actors in the lead. The banter between Grodin, and Walsh is absolutely hysterical. Yaphet Kotto also ads some great support as the F.B.I man.

137. Galaxy Quest (1999): An alien race asks for the help of a sci-fi T.V show cast believing that they are actually world-class space travelers and not actors. This underrated comedy puts the definitive spoof on Star Trek. I never heard anyone talk about this movie, but I should have because it’s really hilarious. Tim Allen is brilliant looking right at home in this comedy.

138. For Love of the Game (1999): Billy chapel, played by Kevin Costner, is a pitcher at the tail end of his career but he is intent on playing one last great baseball game. Chapel is playing the game of his life, and throughout he ponders his past and we learn all about his life, and the choices he has made to get to that point. Directed by Sam Riami, this baseball/love story is a real achievement. The way we learn about our main characters throughout what could be his last game, is really done nicely here and leaves a lasting impression. Kelly Preston is also excellent here as the love interest. If you’re in the mood for a nice romance film, with some pretty darn good spots in it, this is your movie.

139. Serenity (2005): The captain of the serenity finds himself holding a young lady who threatens the evil powers that be, and he and his crew must decide to protect her or to throw her to wolves. This plot is much more complicated than it seems, and in fact is one of the best and most original futuristic stories I have seen in a very long time. Serenity lends us a superb story, with wonderfully entertaining characters, awesome looking worlds, and great battles. Serenity if the sci-fi treats of the decade, and is nearly second to none. A highly imaginative film, that pays off big time! Nathan Fillion, and Alan Tudyk are very, very enjoyable. Outside of “Minority Report” (they are very different) this is the best Sci-fi in a very, very long time.

140. Weird Science (1985): Written and directed by John Hughes this is another teen comedy, that’s starts will some really off the wall ideas. Gary Wallace, played by Anthony Michael Hall, and Wyatt Donnelly, played by Ilan Mitchell Smith, creates the perfect woman in their parent’s attic. A freak lightning bolt turns their play into reality as Lisa, played by Kelly LeBrock is born. Lisa has almost unlimited powers and an appetite for partying, and she is determined to turn Gary and Wyatt from nerd to cool kids. This is such a funny movie, I know it’s really off the wall, but it still delivers. A touch of a coming of age story, and a lot of comedy isn’t original, but John Hughes always makes it work. Anthony Michael Hall is positively hilarious in this and Bill Paxton is pretty funny too, and his brother.

141. Animal House (1978): Dean wormer is fed up with the antics of the Delta House and he going to expel them if it kills him, and it just mite. It’s only 1978 and still they got the college movie just right. Directed by John Landis and driven by the talents of John Belushi this movie delivers big laughs in a big way. All of the characters here are really very funny, and the film is certainly ahead of its time.

142. Shanghai Noon (2000): Chon Wanh, played by Jackie Chan, is a Chinaman who finds himself in the old-west looking for a kidnapped princess. He ends up teaming with a train robber in Roy O’ Bannon, played by Owen Wilson, and its fair to say they are an odd pair. This is such a breath of fresh air, not only do people not make westerns any more, but also it never gets the comic treatment we see here. Not only are there classic old west shootouts, but there is hilarious banter between Wanh and O’ Bannon. This is a very funny movie, with great action.

143. Underworld (2003): Selene, played by Kate Beckinsale, is a vampire who hunts werewolves. She falls into an unlikely alliance with Michael Corvin, played by Scott Speedman, who is half werewolf, and Selene must choose a side. This film also falls under the category of pleasant surprise. I didn’t expect much from it, thinking it was a mechanism to get vampires and werewolves fighting each other, but I found that it was quite a clever little story. The mood is set beautifully, and all of the sights and sounds are totally original. This is a really fun action film, with plenty of satisfying back-story to power it.

144. Dodge ball: A True Underdog Story (2002): Peter La Fleur, played by Vince Vaugh, is going to lose his gym if he doesn’t find a way to make some money. Along with the help of his misfit friends, La Fluer enters a Las Vegas Dodge ball tournament, but is opposed by his nemesis White Goodman, played by Ben Stiller. Goodman runs the corporate Globo-gym and wishes to acquire La Fleur real estate. This is another comic treat that delivered more than I expected. You’ll laugh from start to finish and Vaugh and Stiller are just perfect together in this comedy. Christine Taylor is also really good here as the straight character and love interest for La Fleur.

145. Face/off (1997): Sean Archer is about to undergo a revolutionary medical technique and take the form (face) of a master criminal he is pursuing. Unfortunately when things go wrong identities are mixed up and the hunter become the hunted. Directed by John Woo this action picture has all of the fun gun fighting scenes we expect, and then some. Nicholas Cage and John Travolta both play great super villains and here they both get a turn at it, which is really fun. It’s pretty interesting to watch these two adversaries take each other’s places, and in some way find the shortcoming of the other.

146. I-spy (2002): Kelly Robinson, played by Eddie Murphy, must help a government agent recover a lost spy plane. Owen Wilson plays special agent Alex Scott, and he’s non too pleased about working with Kelly Robinson, but if they don’t kill each other they might just be a great team. I’m sure this isn’t going to be a popular choice here, and I’ll probably take a lot of flak for this pick, but I’m sticking by it. I-Spy is absolutely hilarious! Eddie Murphy and Owen Wilson are two of the funniest people in movies today and together they are a match mad in heaven. Not only is this a comedy, but it also a perfectly good spy story in it, and the action function as a realistic element also. If you have seen I-spy and didn’t care for it this much, give it one more try.

147. Ballistic: Ecks Versus Sever (2002): Tasked with destroying each other, an FBI agent and a rogue NSA agent soon discover that there's a much bigger enemy at work. Antonio Banderas and Lucy Lui are the combatants in this unapologetic shoot em up machine. This is by far the biggest guilt pleasure of the list, and I won’t pretend there is a lot of substance or story here. What this movie does have are some of the most entertaining full-scale action scenes ever shot. This film is really gripping from tail to tail, and delivers pure no questions asked entertainment.

148. Shaft (2000): John Shaft, played by Samuel L. Jackson, is a cop who goes on rouge mission to bring justice to a murderer. Directed by John singleton this movie brings a successful T.V translation to the big screen. It’s rare that one of these T.V remakes gets done well, but this picture was translated perfectly. Jackson is perfect for this role, and stops shy of overdoing it. It’s fun, great action, and a touch of humor.

149. Deep Blue Sea (1999): An underwater research facility is working or a cure for Alzheimer’s disease with sharks, unfortunately they make the sharks super intelligent and powerful. This is no Jaws, don’t get me wrong, but it is a lot of fun. There are some great looking super sharks, and a lot of really fun action/adventure stuff in here. Thomas Jane is terrific in this movie, and looked like an action star on the rise (I don’t know what happened.) The underwater scenes really look great, you have to give them a lot of credit for effects.

150. Summer Rental (1985): Jack Chester, played by John Candy, is a burned out air traffic controller, who takes his family on vacation. Of course the vacation turn into a nightmare and a feud with his condo landlord forces the family to win a boat race in order to stay on vacation. This is such a funny film, and a tribute to John Candy as a comedian. Laugh after laugh, this film delivers non-stop punch lines. Rip torn is also very funny in this movie

That’s it!!! You tell me readers, am I out of my mind??
I’ll try to post some statistics on this list a bit later in the week, see what similarities our top 150 have.

Honorable Mention: “Fast Time at Ridge Mont High” “Desperado” “Event Horizon” National Lampoons Vacation” “From Hell” “Shoot to Kill” “13 Ghosts” “The Gift” “12 Angry Men” “Goodfellahas” “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” “Naked gun 2 1/2” “Naked gun 33 1/3” “Rush Hour 2” “The Replacement Killers” "The Princess Bride"

2 Comments:

Anonymous said...: I think that Indiana Jones and Naked Gun should be moved from honorable mention to the main list.
Naked gun was the best comedy ever.; 7:42 PM
Anonymous said...: What about Blackhawk Down, and Batman Begins? When the two delta guys go in to protect the pilot knowing they are going to die it kind of chokes me up. Also, the newest Batman had a good plot and good actin.; 10:52 AM

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Monday, April 03, 2006

The 150 Greatest Movies of all time!

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