My 50 Favorite Movies Ever
This pandemic and quarantine have given me some extra time to watch all sorts of movies and allowed me to reflect on my favorite movies. So I have compiled a list of my personal list of 50 favorite movies under the criteria that I really like them, as simple as that. I've also given them a title to distinguish them as my favorite movie of some category. Every movie was on the table and narrowing it down to 50 was almost impossible, so much so that I forgot to include some movies on my initial listing. Again, this is my own personal list and not the 50 greatest movies ever made and frankly, I doubt most of these would ever be on that list.
The Child's Play franchise, the original not the reboot, is one of the most interesting in all of horror cinema. They went from horror to horror-comedy to almost entirely comedy with a couple kills to downright terrifying with the past two films. To clarify, the horror genre is one of my favorites and I don't scare easily. When I came across "Curse of Chucky" on Netflix one night while studying and turned it on, I was surprised by how good I thought it was. Brad Dourif's daughter plays the star in each of the two latest films and this film takes place in a psychiatric hospital following the events of the previous movie and it beings back Andy Barclay, the original final kid, and brings all the films together. Having more than one Chucky may be confusing but I liked it. The final scene leaves it open to continue and the director has talked about a tv show to do so, which I would be more than open to.
49. My Favorite Movie About a Family With 12 Kids- Cheaper By The Dozen (2003)
There is very little that Steve Martin can do wrong and this film is a lot of rights. I have never read the book the movie is based on and haven't watched the original film before, so I don't have much to go off when comparing the adaptations. The story is fitting since the two parents struggle to balance separate work lives and a dozen kids, which sounds to me like it would be impossible. I feel for all the kids when their move needs to happen but I would've loved to live in that house growing up. There isn't really a bad guy in the film unless you count the snotty mom from the neighborhood, but I'd also accept Ashton Kutcher or their life struggles as the villain. I didn't like the sequel that much but it is a decent follow-up that also welcomes in Eugene Levy as a more pronounced baddie.
48. My Favorite Movie with a Nickname- Lady Bird (2017)
Saoirse Ronan is one of the best actresses that I feel doesn't get enough credit in the mainstream despite being nominated for Best Actress several times in her career. This is my favorite performance of hers and an outstanding movie all around. The "several small plotlines over the course of a school year" is always a personal favorite story structure of mine. It is also a tad relatable given she is getting ready to go off the school and the film was released shortly after I began college. Laurie Metcalf's performance is amazing as a mother desperately wanting to keep her children close is equally as superb, which is par for the course with her. It also always impresses me when non-Americans absolutely crush the American accent and for Ronan to have such a thick accent yet kill this role is a testament to just how awesome she is.
47. My Favorite Movie About Being Connected- Us (2019)
I strongly debated which of Jordan Peele's films I wanted to put on my list and I decided on "Us" because while I really liked "Get Out", the horror elements of "Us" really shine in the film. The entire cast had to play two roles and Lupita Nyong'o's performance stands out since she's the only one who speaks in each role. I tend to appreciate the gorier horror films against the psychological horror films, though there might be some further up on this list. I could have put both movies on the list but I don't have too much of an attachment to either so I decided to stick with just this one. The ending twist was slightly convoluted and tough to explain but it added an extra layer to the film that makes you second guess everything you have just watched and I love when a movie makes me think.
46. My Favorite Movie That Wears Many Hats- Catch Me If You Can (2002)
This is the first of several times you'll see movies starring Tom Hanks or Leonardo DiCaprio on this list and they happen to be in the same film here. Based on the real-life case of Frank Abagnale, both absolutely are captivating, DiCaprio especially embraces each of his individual aliases and the cat and mouse game he plays with Hanks makes this movie enjoyable to watch. It is also wrong of me to say but seeing how DiCaprio interacts with each of the women he cons makes you dislike him even more. I think it is impossible for Hanks to put in a bad performance. I don't understand how neither of them wasn't nominated for any awards given their track records and their performance in this film, but I'd say they've still had decent careers.
45. My Favorite Movie Featuring a Combination of Holidays- The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This film combines my favorite holiday with my least favorite holiday but I'm willing to overlook that fact because I love this movie. When I'm bored and need something to watch, this is a go-to choice for me. It features good songs, memorable voice acting, and an extremely unique art-style that separates it from the average animated films at the time. Oogie Boogie is a B-rate villain given his general lack of involvement until the last act of the film, plus there is an argument to be made that Jack Skellington trying to take over Christmas doesn't make him all that good a guy. I also don't love the whole love story ending but that's only a small detail. You can see the time and effort that was put into making this film and that helps me appreciate it even more.
44. My Favorite Movie That Was Shown to Me in School- Big Fish (2003)
I used to be convinced there was never an instance where a teacher could show me a movie I hadn't seen before and it is good. This is the film that changed perception for me. Its inclusion on this list has slightly been driven up by watching it more recently. It has been on HBO constantly so I've been watching it more. There is very little Ewan McGregor can do wrong in my opinion and I love him being the younger version of Edward Bloom for which most of the film is told through. The dynamic between Albert Finney and Billy Crudup drives the narrative, though I am upset with the lack of Marion Cotillard, though it isn't really her movie so it makes sense. The final act with the father's death and everyone coming together in the story sequence and the funeral is a satisfying end to the film.
43. My Favorite Movie That Makes Me Hate Being Happy- Inside Out (2015)
Pixar films are near and dear to me and though this is not my favorite from the studio, it's the first one I'm mentioning on my list so I want to give it some love now. Inside Out's strengths come in its casting and the vibrant world they have created to represent an 11-year old girl. Each emotion plays their part perfectly, special shoutout to Bill Hader as Disgust of course. No one is necessarily a bad guy, though that terrifying clown almost qualifies, Joy does a good job of teetering on the line between likable and unlikable. This is all thanks to the brilliant performance of Amy Poehler, who makes Joy come across as positive yet narcissistic in her thoughts that she is the most essential of the emotions. Plus, it'd be wrong of me not to mention the sacrifice Bing Bong makes to allow Joy and Sadness to make it back.
42. My Favorite Movie Where Times Keeps Resetting- Happy Death Day (2017)
I was originally going to title this entry "My Favorite Groundhog Day-like movie" but I felt there would be disappointment that Groundhog Day wasn't the pick. This is another movie that surprised me a little when I watched it the first time. The idea of time resetting is terrifying enough but adding a slasher element made this movie more appealing. A simple birthday cupcake is the last thing I expected to be the ultimate killer in this movie since it also featured a serial killer, but for the killer to be a jealous roommate trying to poison the final girl is the most late-2010 thing a movie has ever done, not literally but I'm sticking with it. Tree is a badass final girl though and I'm a little disappointed the sequel wasn't nearly as good as the original.
41. My Favorite Movie About a TV Show- The Truman Show (1998)
Can I be totally honest, I would be equal parts honored and terrified to be the subject of a Truman Show-style show without being confined to a bubble-like structure to be filmed. There would need to be small changes, like not being forced into a marriage like Truman was. Jim Carrey is a favorite of mine and he manages to balance the comedic and dramatic aspects of the film. He's a giant of comedy no matter what anyone says. I also love Ed Harris in this role. He comes across as an extremely likable person but this role allows him to be bad without being an outright villain. The ending sequence with Harris failing to convince Carrey to stay by saying his catchphrase, bowing to the audience, and then the audience all going crazy is one of my favorite endings ever.
40. My Favorite Movie That Frustrates Me and Makes Me Clap When the Bad Guys Die- BlacKkKlansman (2018)
It wasn't until recently when I rewatched it how great this film is. It also fits very well into the current political climate which is a serious plus. I want to use this as my platform to say I am vehemently against all forms of racism and bigotry that have plagued our society since it's conception. Groups such as the Klan and other white supremacist groups are disgusting and have no place in our world. This film is a masterclass from Spike Lee and does an amazing job at pointing how just how stupid white nationalists are. The final scene where the white supremacists blow up thanks to the bomb that was placed under Patrice's car by one of the supremacist's wives garners claps from me despite the addition of the police brutality taking place in the scene since the cops are unaware Ron is undercover. Also using modern events to drive the point home that so little has changed in the last several decades.
39. My Favorite Movie About the Monsters in Your Closet- Monsters, Inc. (2001)
This is such a beautiful movie, maybe the most beautiful about monsters trying to scare children. The world that the animation team created, especially the door vault where the chase between the protagonists and Randall, is vibrant and always something I wish I could visit and existed in real life. This is one of the few films where there are more than one strong antagonists, though Mr. Waternoose is only revealed to be a villain later in the film. Since I mentioned the reveal, what a strong one from a studio that hadn't done much of that yet. The heartbreak we see when Boo and Sulley have to part ways is only made better when we know they reunite in the closing seconds of the film. I would personally love to see something where a grown-up Boo meets with Sulley again in the future, maybe in a third installment in the series.
38. My Favorite Movie That Takes Place Entirely on a Train- Snowpiercer (2013)
The first of the three films on this list from South Korea directors, the film is primarily in English, so I don't look at it as a foreign film per se. This is also reassurance that Chris Evans is capable of playing more than just Captain America, though I think we all knew that. Bong Joon-ho is one of the best directors in the world right now. He is known for tackling serious class issues and this is a statement on class segregation since the entire train is separated and the division of classes has worsened over time. I spoke earlier to how perfect Ed Harris was for his role in "The Truman Show" and his role is very similar in this film too. He plays a self-righteous prophet, so to speak, with such ease and nonchalance that seeing his unraveling is a proper way to end the film.
37. My Favorite Movies About Weddings- Wedding Crashers (2005)
The montage of weddings they attend is enough for me to want to try it, though I don't know if I could be so committed to an imaginary role. One wrong question and my cover would be so blown. Though not as good as Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg amongst others, the comedic duo of Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn are perfect together. There is no denying how strong the cast is, featuring the likes of Rachel McAdams, Isla Fisher, Bradley Cooper, and Christopher Walken. Cooper is really good at playing a d-bag and it comes in full force in this one. Isla Fisher is easily my favorite part of this entire movie. She plays the crazy stalker/lover perfectly and steals the entire movie from the characters that should be the focus.
36. My Favorite Modern Horror Movie with a Twist- Saw (2004)
Before becoming known for simply being "torture porn", this film was a simple horror film with a small cast and a modest budget. It turned into eight films, seven in the original series and a prequel, and there is another film coming next year. John Kramer/Jigsaw is one of my favorite horror villains despite how ridiculous and convoluted his motives might be. Though he dies midway through the franchise, his presence is always felt and seen through flashbacks and other means. I will admit when he shows up in "Jigsaw," I did clap because I was excited he was back. Getting back to the original film, the reveal he'd been on the floor the entire time was a great twist. I don't mind the rest of the films, but none of them match how much I like the original.
35. My Favorite Movie About Hockey Goons- Goon (2011)
Though I grew up playing baseball, hockey is my favorite sport to watch, and the one I follow the closest. There aren't many great hockey movies, though there is one other on this list, so when I came across this one, I was surprised. Goons aren't as present in the league today as they are, but seeing someone like Georges Laraque in the film doesn't make it seem like a farse. The movie centers around two key relationships, Doug Glatt's with his teammate Xavier Laflamme and Glatt's admiration and subsequent rivalry with Liev Schreiber's Ross Rhea. Along with Schreiber and Sean William Scott, the talents of Eugene Levy, Allison Pill, and Jay Baruchel. I really liked the second film too with Wyatt Russell serving as the fresh blood enforcer but it isn't comparable to the first.
34. My Favorite Movie About Analytics- Moneyball (2011)
I've read the book and watched the movie and I always like it when I can watch a biographical sports films and recognize the names of the people who are in it. Based on the real-life 2002 Oakland A's, seeing Brad Pitt command a front office seems like it should be a normal occurrence. Jonah Hill is also surprisingly good for an actor typically cast in off-the-wall comedy movies, as he will be in a pick later. Interweaving the story of Billy Beane as a prospect failing in the big leagues is an added layer to the story that perfectly portrays why Beane doesn't completely trust the eye test scouts are known for. I own a lot of books from Bill James and others that are into advanced sabermetrics. Let's also not forget that Chris Pratt pre-Star-Lord plays a prominent part too.
33. My Favorite Half Sports, Half Dancing, All Crazy Movie- Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
While Jennifer Lawrence might be known by most for playing Katniss Everdeen in "The Hunger Games" franchise, this is by far my favorite performance of hers. She won both an Oscar and Golden Globe and is the performance I am more likely to go back and watch than any of her others. This is also one of my favorite Bradley Cooper performances too, landing him Best Actor nominations. It also has Julia Stiles, Robert De Niro, Jackie Weaver, and Chris Tucker, all welcome additions to the film. The crazy dynamic that each of these actors put together create a beautiful film that I have seen so many times. Lawrence and Cooper play so well off each other, not to mention this kind of a sports movie since the Eagles and betting play such a big part of the narrative, which can only help its cause.
32. My Favorite Movie About Baseball- The Final Season (2007)
This is a sports movie many likely haven't seen, but it is a really strong baseball movie. It is a biographical film about the final season of Norway High School baseball before they are forced into a merger with a larger school district and closed down, despite their 19 state championships in baseball before the 1991 season. Sean Astin, better known for his role as Rudy, stars as Kent Stock, who takes over for legendary coach Jim Van Scoyoc and leads Norway to their 20th and final state championship before being closed. It takes place in rural Iowa and is one movie that I have a hard time finding a copy of or version of on any streaming service. It feels like it takes the time to polish up on the gameplay and the actors really look like they know what they are doing, which is a rarity in sports movies.
31. My Favorite Movie About a Newsroom- Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
I attest this is Will Ferrell's best role and the work I associate the most with him, though it is not my favorite Ferrell movie as a whole. I think this is his most quotable work to date and it isn't just Ron Burgundy's lines either. I find myself quoting Paul Rudd's line about Sex Panther way more than I should. But for all the quotable lines Ferrell has, it can't be overstated how misogynistic they are, so watching Veronica Corningstone thrive in a male-dominated profession makes this movie work well. The best part though is when all the newsrooms come together and throw down in a back alley. It is littered with great cameos and action that makes you need to view the fight more than once to catch it all.
30. My Favorite Movie That Makes Me Want to Jump Through a Glass Door- The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Another brilliant DiCaprio performance and Jonah Hill killing his role as DiCaprio's right-hand man is just a small part of why this movie is amazing. It is unbelievable that this is based on a real story given how absolutely crazy everything that happens is. Belfort should be dead given how much he drank and snorted. DiCaprio won a Golden Globe but lost the Oscar to Matthew McConaughey, who also appeared at the beginning of the film. There is so much appeal to the movie, whether it's the constant profanity or the hardcore drugs or the nudity. DiCaprio has a knack for playing real people in autobiographical roles and this might be the best one he's done. I also want to thank this film for introducing us to just how awesome Margot Robbie is.
29. My Favorite Space Opera- Star Wars: Episode V- The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
I'd be remiss if I didn't include one Star Wars movie on the list and I think the fifth movie is the best of the nine. Obviously, this movie is remembered for the big reveal towards the end where Darth Vader is Luke Skywalker's real father, but from beginning to end this is the strongest of all the space operas from George Lucas. We also get to meet Yoda which is exciting for someone who knows the character without knowing the backstory beforehand. I was fortunate to grow up in a time where I could watch the prequel trilogy to see the lead up to the movies released in the 70s and 80s and understand what is really going on. But the real meat and potatoes of this film is the big reveal, which I think is one of the greatest reveals in all of cinematic history.
28. My Favorite Racing Movie- Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006)
"Anchorman" is the best Ferrell role, but Talladega Nights is the best Ferrell film as a whole. I attribute this to how brilliant Sasha Baron Cohen as the antagonistic newcomer Jean Girard. I love Ferrell and John C. Reilly's chemistry together in their earlier films, like this one or "Step Brothers" that just missed making my list. While Girard is presented as the villain, allow me to suggest Ricky Bobby's ex-wife, played by Leslie Bibb, is the real villain as a gold digger who splits the second Bobby's career is "over." I felt the kiss at the end between Ferrell and Cohen was a bit unnecessary but so unexpected that I'll allow it. Jane Lynch is an underrated part of the movie as Bobby's mom. Her comedic timing is great and the scenes where she's whipping the kids into shape are definitely scene-stealers.
27. My Favorite Horror Movie Where the Killer is a Doll- Child's Play (1988)
The second installment on the list, I'd like to declare the Child's Play franchise to be my favorite horror film franchise, excluding the 2019 reboot which I don't think of as part of the franchise. Though Chucky doesn't speak for a good part of the film, once he does the dynamic changes. I think the idea of a killer doll is ridiculous at the same rate that I feel the idea of a wounded serial killer putting his spirit into a doll is outlandish. Chucky telling Andy what to do without speaking reminds me a little of "The Shining" and how Danny and his finger communicate. Though there isn't much death or gore in the film, which I admit I like a little in a horror movie, it helped to spawn a series with increasingly more gore and creativity.
26. My Favorite Movie About a Loner/Musician- School of Rock (2003)
Jack Black playing a lying loner musician seems more true to his character than we might realize. He helps to carry this film that features primarily kids actors and musicians who seem inexperienced but are good for the most part. I'll give a special mention to Miranda Cosgrove who I felt was the obvious standout of the kids. The music in the film, both the original music and the samples from famous rock groups, is really good. I'll be honest, I'm not sure why they couldn't just win in the end. Maybe it was to give Dewey his comeuppance for being a liar for the entire film or to give throw us off and force the parents to get behind their kids instead of ground them. They could've just won the Battle of the Bands and the story end there, but whatever floats your boat.
25. My Favorite Movie About Growing Up- The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Being an awkward kid in high school isn't always fun and that is exactly what this movie is. While I think it comes across as a bit of an overly dramatic telling of the story, Hailee Steinfeld plays the off-the-henges teenager of an off-the-henges mother to perfection. I love the awkwardness of her relationship with Erwin Kim though there are times where she is a bit too whiny. Her being mad at her friend for dating her older brother is a little bratty but all that goes away when she is given a hard time by the kid she has a crush on after his advances are declined in the front seat of his car. The emotional scenes between Nadine and her brother are the best in the film. Also hats off to the performance by Woody Harrelson as the sarcastic, yet caring teacher. Final note, Hailee Steinfeld and I share a birthday, she's just one year older.
24. My Favorite Movie Starring Lions- The Lion King (1994)
For most this is their favorite Disney movie, but it's second for me despite probably having the best soundtrack of any of the movies. The voice casting is perfect, especially James Earl Jones as Mufasa and Jeremy Irons as Scar. The voices of Simba and Nala are also all good but take a backseat. The music is really where this movie shines. From beginning to end they are some of the best in all of Disney lore. It was truly deserving of the accolades it received, most notably its Golden Globe for Best Picture- Comedy or Musical. It also won the Oscar for Best Original Song for "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" with "Hakuna Matata" and "Circle of Life" also being nominated. I don't think there will ever be a Disney movie to touch that soundtrack, not even "Frozen."
23. My Favorite Movie About Growing Crazy in Isolation- The Shining (1980)
Given the current state of the world in July 2020 with a global pandemic fighting back with a vengeance, there is no more appropriate movie to talk about the feeling of isolation than "The Shining." The cast is relatively small but they all show up in big ways. The performances of Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall are the most memorable of the entire film. The fact that Nicholson wasn't nominated for a Golden Globe or Oscar for his performance as Jack Torrance is a crime and I demand a recount. I know a lot of people who claim this movie is too scary for them but I have never had this problem. I also want it to be known that Danny covering up his footsteps in the snow in the giant maze at the hotel is the smartest decision a character has ever made in a horror movie.
22. My Favorite Christmas Ensemble Movie- Love Actually (2003)
I have made the claim this is one of my favorite ensemble casts in the history of cinema. This is a crazy claim but I don't care because that's how much I love every member of this cast. I love how interwoven each of the storylines is and how we get to see how they all make sense by the end of the film. My favorite storyline of them all is the one with the porn stand-ins, featuring Martin Freeman and Joanna Page. Their story is so innocent, cute, and simple that it is impossible not to love the two of them. I also feel for Mark, played by Andrew Lincoln, who is the only one who seems to get the short end of the stick for the entire movie. I admit, while there is "Red Nose Day Actually" which serves to help give some clarity on what happened afterward, I would love a full feature sequel.
21. My Favorite Movie That Makes Me Sad Every Time I Watch It- Short Term 12 (2013)
This film hits on subject matter that is much tougher to talk about than the others on this list since it dives deep into mental health and self-harm. This is my favorite of Brie Larson's performances as she is probably my favorite actress. This film also introduces us to the brilliance of Lakeith Stanfield and helped to serve as a launching pad for him. His character is the one I feel the most sympathy for given his character's past. Watching Larson's character, who is a supervisor at the short term facility, try to stay level-headed with the kids while slowly losing her sanity in her personal life shows her range. Kaitlyn Dever is another name who has been tearing up the industry lately and her performance is another to add to the noteworthy performances.
20. My Favorite Movie I Experienced in the Theater- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
I saw this movie in a movie theater in South Korea and when everyone who was snapped away returns, there was an audible cheer coming from the entire theater. Though not my favorite Marvel film, it's second and most of it comes from how long it is and how much it gets in during those three hours. Seeing everyone from the MCU who hadn't died yet team up and take on Thanos and his army was well worth all of the films that were made before it. The obvious talking points to be made after this film are the deaths of Black Widow and Iron Man. The former is overshadowed by the ladder but it helps to drive the story along. Iron Man's death is easily the biggest to this point in the MCU but his funeral is a perfect send-off for the character that started it all.
19. My Favorite Romantic-Comedy- 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
While I have not read the material from which this movie is, the end result is a classic film that I have dubbed my favorite romantic comedy. I have mentioned Julia Stiles once on my list but now I can state just how much I love her work. She's really good in the Bourne films, "The Prince & Me," and the aforementioned "Silver Linings Playbook." Along with great performances from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Olynik, and David Krumholtz, the real performance I want to praise is Heath Ledger's as the bad boy, Patrick Verona. It will become clearer later, but it is a shame Ledger is gone because there is no doubt he would've had a long and illustrious career. I also really like Larry Miller's performance as Kat and Bianca's neurotic father.
18. My Favorite Prison Movie- The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
For some, this is likely the greatest movie ever made, but I have it here because I don't have the personal attachment to it that others might. I don't feel like Tim Robbins gets enough credit for just how good he has been in his career. He has the accolades but with a filmography featuring this, "Bull Durham," and "Mystic River," he's had a storied career. Add onto it the addition of Morgan Freeman, whom I will never have a bad thing, and I think this movie deserves the esteem is comes with. My only nitpicky thing about the movie is the development that Tommy Williams had a cellmate who claims to have committed the murders Dufresne is convicted for. I get why they then had to kill Williams, kind of, but just seemed like a slight throw away. I am happy this movie of all of them has a happy ending.
17. My Favorite Parody Movie- Airplane! (1980)
There were a large number of movies I considered to take the honor of my favorite parody movie, like "Monty Python's Life of Brian," "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," "Spaceballs," or "Blazing Saddles," but I decided on "Airplane!" because it is the one I laugh at the most. Robert Hays and Julie Hagerty have wonderful chemistry together but the real star of the show is Leslie Nielsen, whose deadpan delivery of his lines and general aloofness to a lot of the things going on around him. The small scenes of physical comedy while on the plane plus the cutaway scenes from the lives of Ted and Elaine before the events on the plane are all funny. I didn't see the sequel to this film since I doubt it could touch the original but might be open to it.
16. My Favorite Movie Released in the Last Year Plus- Parasite (2019)
Let's be honest, if I'd have watched this more than once before making this list it would be much higher up, likely in the top ten, but since I haven't seen it but once I'm keeping it here. I watched it once it began streaming on Hulu and absolutely loved it. It deserved to win Best Picture and Bong Joon-ho deserved the win for Best Director and frankly, the whole cast deserved individual awards for their performances. Bong, as I mentioned for "Snowpiercer," tackles societal issues and this is right up his alley. The class struggles between the three families and the parasitic nature of the Kim family towards the Parks plays right into the movie's title. I also loved the ending sequence with the patriarch of the Kim family continuing the cycle and replacing the housekeeper's husband only to be faked out by a reunion was a satisfying end to a masterpiece.
15. My Favorite Non-Pixar Animated Disney Movie- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
I have raved about this movie a bunch so I'll keep it brief here. I have stated that Quasimodo is the most sympathetic of all Disney protagonists, that Judge Claude Frollo is the evilest of all Disney villains with the best Disney villain song, and that Esmerelda is one of the most badass women in Disney history and would be amongst the Disney princesses if she were royalty. I really want to drive home the fact that Frollo wanted to burn down Paris just to get this gypsy to sleep with him and if she didn't he was going to kill her. This is a Disney movie and it touches on subject material like this. There are children here. It isn't my favorite animated movie of all time, but it is the best that Disney has given us outside of Pixar.
14. My Favorite Butterfly Effect Movie- Mr. Nobody (2009)
I had to watch this movie several times before I was finally able to understand what was going on and even then I still don't fully understand it. The story centers around Nemo Nobody and there are several different stories that begin with a decision Nemo has to make when his parents separate and he must decide who he goes with. Even re-reading the plot from Wikipedia confused me a little. The premise stems from the butterfly effect where just one decision in the present can affect your future and all the events thereafter. That's a simplified version of an otherwise confusing idea. There are so many different storylines and alternate versions of the plot that I can't make sense of it. I hate it was taken off Netflix because it is an amazing watch.
13. My Favorite Movie Where the Villain Isn't Actually a Villain- How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
I have long stated this is my favorite Christmas movie and I don't think it is very close for me. Now I will give my long-standing opinion that the Grinch is not and has never been a bad guy. The 1966 mini-special doesn't give him a backstory but this live-action version gives him a childhood story. This helps to garner some sympathy but he's treated as a villain regardless. All of the Whos, except for Cindy Lou Who and Martha May Whovier, are the real villains since they are ostracizing someone for being different. While Mayor Augustus May Who is the real villain of the film, I blame the entire town for why the Grinch is painted this way. It takes a six-year-old to prove it and be the only one to have a conscience. The Grinch is the hero from the beginning of the film to the end.
12. My Favorite Feel-Good Sports Movie- Miracle (2004)
If I could go back in time to witness one sporting event live, this is the moment I would choose. The Miracle on Ice is arguably the biggest moment in American Olympic history given the time and the real-world impact it had. This movie is my favorite sports movie by a considerable margin since it's hockey and shows a triumph as large as this. Kurt Russell is amazing in this role as Head Coach Herb Brooks and this film also has the authentic action feel that I talked about in "The Final Season." The actors appear to really be skilled in what they are doing and make the action seem plausible and could actually happen. Having the real call from the game over the game in the film is a nice touch given how iconic the call is as the time winds down.
11. My Favorite Non-Disney, Non-Pixar Animated Movie- Shrek (2001)
This is the film that won the first-ever Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. I think it is the second-best animated film ever made. The humor in it is geared towards adults even though it is an animated film, historically told they were for little kids. This is such an imaginative take on the idea of fairy tales. All of your childhood favorites from Disney owned properties are present and it feels like one huge dig at Disney. While there is no one other than Mike Myers who could play this role now, Chris Farley originally read for the role and recorded most of the lines before he tragically passed. This is also one of Eddie Murphy's classic roles too. It will always be my favorite non-animated Disney or Pixar films.
10. My Favorite Movie That is Primarily Silent- Hush (2016)
The entire film has only five characters and a cat and there is very little dialogue since the main protagonist is a deaf woman living alone in the woods. The main antagonist is a man in a creepy mask known simply as The Man. Three of the five characters are dead by the end of the film but the final act is so innovative since she can't scream so she uses a loud and flashing smoke detector and a wine opener to the jugular to put The Man down for good and make him bleed out. One thing I can really appreciate about the antagonist is how smart and calculated he is for a majority of the film. He cuts the power, thus killing the wifi to communicate with the police, takes the neighbor's phone, whom he had already killed, then smashes Maddie's hand in the door to prevent her from using the crossbow she stole from him earlier. The runtime is under 90 minutes so it isn't a hard film to sit through.
9. My Favorite Slasher Movie- Scream (1996)
While the Child's Play franchise is my favorite horror franchise, this is easily my favorite horror movie, and if I were bold enough I might make an assertion it's the best horror movie ever made. The cold open with Drew Barrymore is iconic for so many different reasons, namely Barrymore's scream and being strung up on a tree with her intestines pouring out. It is just the right amount of funny and scary for my taste. Because most of the second half of the film takes place at Stu's house, the lead-up to the big reveal drags a little, but it makes up for it with the reveal our killer is actually two killers. That is one of my favorite horror movie moments ever. Matthew Lillard puts in the best performance in the entire movie in my opinion, though Neve Campbell would go on to make a spectacular final girl for four films.
8. My Favorite Movie Where They Sing Everything- Les Miserables (2012)
Les Mis is one of my favorite musicals that I've seen in person, up there with Fiddler on the Roof and the Phantom of the Opera. I saw this film twice in consecutive days when it came out on Christmas Day in 2012. A friend of mine cried from the time Anne Hathaway's Fantine died to the end of the film when everyone that dies reunites and sings. I have seen it about a thousand times since and sing along more than I am willing to admit. Everyone raves about the performances of Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, Eddie Redmayne, and Samantha Banks, among others, while ripping apart Russell Crowe for his singing abilities. I probably don't hate Crowe's performance as much as the rest, but I do certainly feel his singing was too nasally and whiny, but I love everything else about it.
7. My Favorite Foreign Language Film- Train to Busan (2016)
On top of being my favorite foreign language film, it also earns the distinction of being my favorite zombie film ever. The makeup team that designed the zombies deserve high praise for their work because these are some of the best zombies I have ever seen. The ending of the film is exactly what I had hoped it would be too. Gong Yoo, the lead actor of the film who is forced to take his daughter to Busan to her mother, dies in the end, and of all the people who were on the initial train, only two survive, the daughter and a pregnant woman. There is a sequel set to be released in South Korea in the next week or two. Though I went to Busan while I was in South Korea, I didn't take the train there, choosing instead to take the bus to Busan.
6. My Favorite Ensemble Film- Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
While I've said "Love Actually" is an excellent ensemble movie, this is the true king of them all. Just off the top of my head, I can name brilliant performances from Michael Cera, Ellen Wong, Aubrey Plaza, Mary-Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin, Jason Schwartzman, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Mae Whitman, Allison Pill, and Brie Larson. I love the action and comedy of it while being one giant homage to fighting video games. There is a lot of imagery that helps to foreshadow which are details that I love in a movie. They filmed both endings and chose to go with Scott ending up with Ramona, which makes sense because it would've made everything before then feel meaningless. Let's not overlook a 22-year-old dating a 17-year-old high schooler. The idea is kind of weird when you think about it.
5. My Favorite Marvel Movie By a Long Shot- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Of the Marvel films, this one is the best one and I don't think it is really that close. I used to feel strongly that Robert Redford's Alexander Pierce wasn't a good movie villain even though I loved the film, but his performance has started to grow on me and I now feel he is in the top half of Marvel villains. What I really love about this film is the revelation of Bucky Barnes still being alive and how he is introduced as The Winter Soldier. As someone who has never read a comic book and doesn't look for spoilers to movies, I had no clue this was going to happen so I was thoroughly entertained. Bucky is my absolute favorite character in the MCU because of the depth of his character and just how awesome he is with a mechanic arm. The trilogy of Captain America films is the strongest non-Avengers series in the MCU.
4. My Favorite Movie Where I'm Rooting for the Bad Guy a Little- Split (2016)
The first time I remember watching this film was on one of my long flights during my initial return home from South Korea. I instantly fell in love with James McAvoy's work as 24 different personalities, though not all of them are seen in the film. I awarded this film this way because of how whiny I think Claire and Marcia are. Despite all the things Casey, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, is trying to do and telling them to do in order to possibly get out, they completely disregard everything and end up being the ones killed by the beast. I love the rapport that grows from the trauma Kevin and Casey share, even if it comes from a very bad place. This friendship grows in the sequel "Glass" and is one of the only good parts of the film. I had also not seen "Unbreakable" before watching this, so the cameo made by Bruce Willis at the end went over my head until I did finally watch it.
3. My Favorite Animated Movie- The Incredibles (2004)
Of all the films Pixar has released this is the most grown-up, so to speak. I'm noticing that a lot of my top picks are superhero films, which, while unintentional, speaks to how prevalent they are in pop culture and my life. Though I didn't find the second film to live up to the first, that is in large part to the pedestal I place this film on. The major part of why is because of how great a villain Syndrome is. His plan is absolutely awful, trying to put everyone in danger so he can look like a hero no matter how much damage and loss of life there is. He might not only be the best villain Pixar has created but the best character period. Of the Parrs, Dash is probably my favorite since he does the hero thing with so much whimsy and awe that it makes me wish I could join them. I don't think any animated film will ever surpass this one in my mind.
2. My Favorite Superhero Film With My Single Favorite Villain Performance- The Dark Knight (2008)
Though the MCU dominates the superhero movie scene, Batman might be my favorite superhero regardless of whether it is Marvel or DC. He isn't a super-being in terms of having other-worldly powers, but his technology allows him to fight crime. The real reason I love this film is the same reason most people really like this film, Heath Ledger as The Joker. He posthumously won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Batman's biggest foe and though I haven't seen any of the other performances up for the award that year, it was well deserved and I don't think anyone else could've done it better. Though Joaquin Phoenix won Best Actor this past year for his portrayal as The Joker in "Joker," Ledger is still the gold standard for the character.
1. My Favorite Movie, Period- Forrest Gump (1994)
Of all the movies released in all of cinematic history, this is the single greatest film ever released and I won't back down from my opinion. I also feel Tom Hanks' performance as the titular character is the single best performance in all of cinematic history and I won't concede that opinion either. Even if you take away all the awards it won during award season, this film would still be my favorite and frankly, it doesn't even come close. For as much as I love "The Dark Knight" as my second-favorite film, there is a huge gap between first and second on my list. The reality is Forrest Gump earned 13 nominations and won six Oscars, including Best Picture, over The Shawshank Redemption and Pulp Fiction, Best Director, and Best Actor, over performances from Morgan Freeman and John Travolta. I will watch the film every time it is on television and can pick up at any point and don't feel like I'm lost at all. It truly is the best movie.
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