Updating the Top 50

With another year over, I have a new slew of films to ponder. Then again, aren't we always pondering good films? Either way, I've read over my previous Top 50 and it needs some serious updates. This year I don't think I'll do as elaborate a countdown. We'll see. Anyway, here's the old Top 50.

1. American Beauty
2. All About Eve
3. It's a Wonderful Life
4. Annie Hall
5. The Godfather
6. Some Like It Hot
7. The Princess Bride
8. Mulholland Dr.
9. Amelie
10. The Shawshank Redemption
11. Sunset Blvd.
12. Match Point
13. A Streetcar Named Desire
14. Casablanca
15. A Shot in the Dark
16. Spirited Away
17. Dr. Strangelove
18. The Departed
19. Lilo & Stitch
20. Zodiac
21. Psycho
22. Clue
23. Finding Nemo
24. Breakfast at Tiffany's
25. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
26. The Shining
27. Gone With the Wind
28. Chinatown
29. Love Actually
30. City Lights
31. Fargo
32. Traffic
33. The Producers
34. Bridget Jones's Diary
35. Chocolat
36. The Godfather: Part II
37. Mean Girls
38. The Apartment
39. Pulp Fiction
40. Halloween
41. Blazing Saddles
42. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
43. Bonnie and Clyde
44. Shakespeare in Love
45. Army of Darkness
46. This Is Spinal Tap
47. Jerry Maguire
48. Sabrina
49. Schindler's List
50. As Good As It Gets

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Top 50 -- 5-1

Sorry for the delay. Real life was kicking in. Is anyone still reading this?

5. The Godfather (1972) || IMDb
Last Year: 5, no movement

What can be said for this film that has not been said before? It is a perfect film in every aspect, and one that not only should be studied, but has a strong emotional pull to it. Yet the audience is sympathetic for the Corleone family, who are in fact mobsters. I love it.

4. Annie Hall (1977) || IMDb
Last Year: 4, no movement

I love Woody Allen. Sure he's had some flops, but when his films are good, they're really good. Here is his best comedy (I would say Match Point is his best drama), and all the jokes and routines he's ever had somehow managed to mesh into this wonderful film.

3. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) || IMDb
Last Year: 3, no movement

Another classic film. I'm simply going to state that if you don't like this movie you have no heart.

2. All About Eve (1950) || IMDb
Last Year: 2, no movement

Before, I said that I would be willing to debate with anyone that this was the best film ever. I still stand by that. As with all my favorites, it is a triumph of writing, but also every other aspect. Bette Davis gives arguably her best performance, and I love Anne Baxter. This movie isn't for everyone, but I think those who 'get' it always enjoy it.

1. American Beauty (1999) || IMDb
Last Year: 1, no movement

I could watch this movie forever and ever. It contains everything, from comedy to emotionally draining drama. Each character is so unique, and the way the story unfolds is paced so well. Even the musical score, which I listen to regularly, is a masterpiece. Definitely a great film, and certainly my favorite.

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Top 50 -- 10-6

Sorry for the delay. Work calls. Work and Netflix. And writing. But here I am.

10. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) || IMDb
Last Year: 8, down 2

I've come to the conclusion it is impossible to dislike this movie. If you don't enjoy this film, you're simply a shallow human being. The whole movie plays on morality, where we sympathize with prisoners and side against the staff of the prison. But Andy and Red's separate journey through the movie takes a toll on me every time. The scene where Andy escapes in the rain and tears off his shirt in the creek is one of those few moments that cannot be described, but must be experienced on film.

9. Amelie (2001) || IMDb
Last Year: 12, up 3

Over the last year I've watched numerous movies with Audrey Tautou (The Da Vinci Code, Dirty Pretty Things, A Very Long Engagement, etc.). While she is a good actress, none of them are even close to being on par with Amelie. Amelie is so selfless that, in her endless want to please others, we wish her happiness more than anyone else. Plus she's just so damned pretty.

8. Mulholland Dr. (2001) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

A new addition to the list, and at a high position. I love a movie that takes a risk. Sometimes we get a bad finished product (Southland Tales), and others we get great movies. Mulholland Dr. is the latter. Some movies take only one viewing to 'get,' others two or three. I think for me Mulholland Dr. took three viewings and a bit of research to 'figure it out' (all of it, I got the gist on two viewings). At least I think I got all of it. I don't know, and that's all the fun. This movie should not be seen by everybody--only those who like to think about their films.

7. The Princess Bride (1987) || IMDb
Last Year: 7, no movement

Best fantasy film of all time? Maybe, maybe not. But it's my favorite. This movie has everything--the best sword fight of all time, comedy, love, castle sieges, quicksand, ROUSes, and everything else. What is there not to love about this film?

6. Some Like It Hot (1959) || IMDb
Last Year: 6, no movement

Some Like It Hot, and if you don't like this movie, you have bad taste. That's not an opinion, it is a fact. AFI voted this the funniest movie of all time a few years ago, and there's good reason. You have the all-star cast of Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon, and Tony Curtis (all three great here, naturally). Billy Wilder writing and directing, and also I.A.L. Diamond, who would later co-write The Apartment with Wilder. But not only name-dropping, there are so many moments in this film that are small, subtle touches that make the experience enjoyable. Sure, the trans-gender comedy is great (even better than the countless movies that would try to mimic the jokes [only Tootsie was successful]), but the whole package is one to be enjoyed.

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Top 50 -- 15-11

I just woke up from a 4 hour 'nap.' How awesome am I? Very awesome.

15. A Shot in the Dark (1964) || IMDb
Last Year: 10, down 5

As I said about Dr. Strangelove--Peter Sellers is one of the funniest people ever. Inspector Clouseau is easily one of my favorite characters of all time.

14. Casablanca (1942) || IMDb
Last Year: 13, down 1

There is a reason this movie is consistently ranked among the best movies of all time. I have a theory that if a person does not like Casablanca, they are not worth talking to about movies.

13. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) || IMDb
Last Year: 9, down 4

This play is such a great drama, and even without such great acting, the characters look so real on the page. But in the film we also have Vivien Leigh and Marlon Brando--two of the best actors ever--as well as numerous great supporting actors. There is something about this movie, somewhere in the late second act, where everything begins to come together, where the audience can see the ending, the inevitable train wreck, but cannot help being enthralled completely. Another flawless movie.

12. Match Point (2005) || IMDb
Last Year: 41, up 29

Recently I watched Cassandra's Dream, a newer Woody Allen movie, and it felt a lot like Match Point Lite. It lacked the punch of Match Point, the punch 3/4 through the movie that only Woody Allen could get away with; however, what makes this movie so good is not that twist in the plot, but how smooth the rest of the movie flows. A good movie is not just a good twist, but everything before and after it fits seamlessly, and here is a great example.

11. Sunset Blvd. (1950) || IMDb
Last Year: 11, no movement

In the event I am asked who my favorite director is, I unhesitatingly reply Billy Wilder. And it's not just his directing, but his writing/directing. I love a good film noir (okay, and even only decent ones, like Gilda), and Sunset Blvd is among the best. Essays have been written on the greatness of this movie, and I don't feel like typing up my own, so let us be content with this.

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Top 50 -- 20-16

Wow, this is almost over already? Crunch time.

20. Zodiac (2007) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

Cursed with an early release date, this film was overlooked come Oscar season. What a crime. This was my favorite film of 2007. David Fincher is a masterful director, and everything about this movie is perfection.

19. Lilo & Stitch (2002) || IMDb
Last Year: 16, down 3

Still one of my all-time favorites. Lovable, whiny girl. Lovable, destructive alien. What more could one want in an animated film? Maybe Marsellus Wallace as Cobra Bubbles? Sure!

18. The Departed (2006) || IMDb
Last Year: 25, up 7

Still great--gets better every time I watch it. Also, I will argue with anyone that this is better than Infernal Affairs. Don't try to sound cool and say the original Hong Kong movie was better. It was good, but not as good. *End Rant*

17. Dr. Strangelove (1964) || IMDb
Last Year: 14, down 3

Peter Sellers makes this movie, yes. But George C. Scott is also one of the best things here. Great, great comedy.

16. Spirited Away (2001) || IMDb
Last Year: 43, up 27

Why such a rise? I don't know. It seems this movie just feels more and more authentic, more special with subsequent viewings. This is another film I would encourage everyone to see. You can even watch it with English dubs because Disney made sure they were perfect (this is the only case I've seen of this).

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Top 50 -- 25-21

Some more great movies that you all should check out if you want to remain friends with me!

25. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

Where to begin about this beautiful movie? I read the book, which was just as amazing (and heartbreaking), but the movie is also so good. To summarize: Jean-Do Bauby was the editor of French Elle magazine until he suffered a serious stroke, which left his only contact with the outside world through blinking his left eye (while his brain was fully functional). This results in a 'locked-in syndrome.' Through this, a system is created where he can communicate through blinking, and eventually he writes a complete memoir. The memoir itself is great, even if you don't consider that it took him much, much longer to compose than a normal person with a keyboard. Seriously, see this movie.

24. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961) || IMDb
Last Year: 45, up 21

Audrey Hepburn is one of the most glamorous screen legends of all time--we all know this. In Breakfast at Tiffany's, despite a few minor turns for the melodramatic, we get a sense of real humanity and originality, not only in Hepburn, but in all the characters. So maybe this isn't the best movie ever made, but it is one I enjoy a lot.

23. Finding Nemo (2003) || IMDb
Last Year: 23, no movement

What can I possibly say about this film? It's brilliant on so many levels, and easily my favorite Pixar film (which says a lot, since I love Pixar). I could (and did, at one point in time) watch this movie every single day and never tire of it.

22. Clue (1985) || IMDb
Last Year: 17, down 5

Another movie I would never tire of. Classic slapstick, a little whodunit, and even some genuine, witty comedy.

21. Psycho (1960) || IMDb
Last Year: 15, down 6

Hitchcock is certainly, without a doubt, one of the masters of cinema. And while I've seen many of his films, this one still sticks with me the most. I think Vertigo is a better movie. It even sticks with me more. But for some reason I cannot shake off the power of Psycho and what a great movie it is.

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Top 50 -- 30-26

[Note: I'm testing Blogger's scheduled post feature, which is kind of new. I'm not really awake at 9:30, so if this posts, sweet. If now, well... maybe I can figure out what I did wrong.]

More Top 50, more Great Movies!

30. City Lights (1931) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

I've seen many Chaplin movies recently, and this one shall represent them all on this countdown. Mainly because the end scene is one of the greatest moments in cinema, and I dare not spoil it for those who haven't seen this film. City Lights is single-handedly one of the best movies ever created, and I encourage everyone to see it. Rent it, on VHS if you have to. Also, recently I found this movie in a DVD store and bought it (so I didn't have to order it online), so, score!

29. Love Actually (2003) || IMDb
Last Year: 39, up 10

Bridget Jones may take the cake for lovable characters, but this movie is just one huge conglomeration of, well, love. Really, this film hits all the notes, and sure it's sappy, but it still works. And I < 3 it.

28. Chinatown (1974) || IMDb
Last Year: 26, down 2

The 70s was a great decade for movies. Arguably one of the best--at least for mainstream movies. And this noir/neo-noir is one of the reasons why.

27. Gone With the Wind (1939) || IMDb
Last Year: 18, down 9 (I don't know, I can't do math)

Do I really need to explain why this movie is on here? Seriously, it's one of the greatest.

26. The Shining (1980) || IMDb
Last Year: 47, up 21

More Jack Nicholson, more Kubrick (wait...). My favorite horror movie, so well crafted and executed. Again, I feel like I should explain, but what's the point? This movie is great and everyone knows it.

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Top 50 -- 35-31

35. Chocolat (2000) || IMDb
Last Year: 34, down 1

There's something about this movie that is endearing... possibly that a story told through a chocolaterie seems much better than telling a story any other way? But also there's great performances, writing, direction, etc.

34. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

I think this movie barely missed the list years before, not because I didn't like it much, but because I would forget about it for some reason or other. This is one of my favorite romantic comedies, and anyone who knows me knows I love Hugh Grant. But also, this movie is bound to make you happy -- if an overweight, smoking, alcoholic, cursing, inarticulate woman can find love, any of us can.

33. The Producers (1968) || IMDb
Last Year: 20, down 13

More Mel Brooks. More hilarity. This movie is a recurring member on the list, so I don't have much more to say.

32. Traffic (2000) || IMDb
Last Year: 22, down 10

Steven Soderbergh really does have his hits and misses. Here I think is his best film, as well as a very intricately written screenplay and again -- great performances. Much better than, say, Gladiator.

31. Fargo (1996) || IMDb
Last Year: 49, up 18

My appreciation for this movie only grows with time. Fargo ages like wine, and I think its rise is also fueled by the greatness of No Country for Old Men. But I still enjoy Fargo more. This is one of those that I think everyone should have to see.

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Top 50 -- 40-36

Let's keep this Top 50 countdown going. More great movies!

40. Halloween (1978) || IMDb
Last Year: 19, down 11

A big shift, I know. But I have to be honest, or else this list is pointless. The terrible remake didn't help, and while this is still, for my money, one of the best horror movies ever made, some things are now higher on my list. But still, the fact that Halloween made this list means something, doesn't it? 40 is not bad at all.

39. Pulp Fiction (1994) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

I'm going to spoil it and say this movie replaces Reservoir Dogs. Two nights ago I watched Pulp Fiction again, and it truly is a great movie, despite countless college idiot kids quoting it and ruining it. Not only if the writing continuity flawless (threads weave together perfectly), but there are some very subtle touches that make the movie fantastic. On my last viewing, when Jules and Vincent walked out of the diner in the final scene, I felt myself wishing that I could follow them, that the movie would last another hour. Corney? Maybe. But that's what makes a good movie.

38. The Apartment (1960) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

This movie has had an odd growing effect on me. The first time I watched it I thought it was good, but shrugged it off. Now I find myself thinking of it often in fond recollection. Not only is it a great comedy, but the heart of the movie, the 'drama,' is great as well. Whenever I wake up with a hangover I still often think, "My head feels like a wad of chewing gum."

37. Mean Girls (2004) || IMDb
Last Year: 30, down 7

Do I really need to explain how or why this movie is on the list? Quotable beyond reason. Also, I've watched quite a few episode of '30 Rock' recently, and that makes me appreciate Tina Fey so much more.

36. The Godfather: Part II (1974) || IMDb
Last Year: 27, down 9

A sequel better than the original? No. Almost equal, though. A movie so rich and grand that I honestly think it would be a crime to watch The Godfather and not sit through this sequel. It adds a whole new layer to the story of the Corleone family, how could anyone pass it up?

More tomorrow!

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Top 50 -- 45-41

Let's keep this countdown going!

45. Army of Darkness (1992) || IMDb
Last Year: 36, down 9

Great comedy. Mediocre horror. Plenty of ridiculousness. I still enjoy this movie a lot. Not much else to say, really.

44. Shakespeare in Love (1998) || IMDb
Last Year: 46, up 2

What's better than Shakespeare? A movie about Shakespeare, perhaps. Recently I've become acquainted with lots of Tom Stoppard's writings, and that gives me some newfound appreciation for this movie. Plus, it is still a great movie.

43. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

The scene where Clyde and Bonnie meet is one of my favorite movie moments of all time. Also, reading the script, that writing is great as well. I also like Faye Dunaway a lot, and Warren Beatty is kind of The Man. One of my favorite lines:

[after Clyde shows off his marksmanship with a handgun]
Bonnie Parker: You're good!
Clyde Barrow: I ain't good. I'm the best!
Bonnie Parker: And modest!

42. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) || IMDb
Last Year: 29, down 13

The first real non-critically acclaimed movie on the list. The movie takes a fall, but I still love it. A guilty pleasure, it's one of those movies where I know it's not great or artsy, but something about it just sticks with me. There's this familiarity with the characters that always comforts me.

41. Blazing Saddles (1974) || IMDb
Last Year: 24, down 17

How can one not enjoy the works of Mel Brooks? Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and The Producers are arguably three of the best comedies ever made. A fall, yes, but hey, this movie is still on the list.

---

Be back tomorrow!

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Yearly Update to the Top 50

As I said last post, I'm going to update my Top 50 Favorite Movies. Here's the deal, for those who are rookies to the list: The emphasis is on favorite movies. Not what I think are the best movies, or movies everyone should see (though there are often connections between all of these). The list is not based on innovation or how many Oscars a movie has, and I won't keep a movie off because I'm embarrassed I like it, just like I won't put a movie on here because I should like it.

My 2006 list can be seen in its entirety here and the 2007 list here.

As always, I will include a little blurb (some will be repetitive from before; I'll try to avoid that) and a link to IMDb. And also, as always, I do think everyone should try to see these movies.

Note: I will not do 'honorable mentions' or anything of the sort because it's a cop out. I'm having a lot of trouble narrowing it down to just 50, and even more sorting them, but I firmly believe that a 'top 50' should only have 50 movies, not 51, 55, or 60.

50. As Good as It Gets (1997) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

Kicking off the new Top 50 is a new addition. Two words describe why this movie works so well: Jack Nicholson. Here is my favorite performance of his (no exceptions), and I could watch the scenes with him forever. However, this movie barely makes the countdown because some other elements of the movie are a drag. Not a whole package, but good enough.

49. Schindler's List (1993) || IMDb
Last Year: 37, down 12

Still a great, great movie. Again, if this was a list of movie quality, this would be much higher. I enjoy this movie a lot, but others are now closer to my heart.

48. Sabrina (1954) || IMDb
Last Year: 50, up 2

I re-watched this film a few weeks ago, this time paying particular attention to Bogie's character. The way he controls a scene is spectacular, despite the scene-stealer Audrey Hepburn in the starring role. Truly a classic.

47. Jerry Maguire (1996) || IMDb
Last Year: 44, down 3

Down again, but not out. Despite scientology and Elizabethtown, I have very fond memories of this film. The movie is not only about having a heart, but also shows one as well. That's why it's so endearing.

46. This Is Spinal Tap (1984) || IMDb
Last Year: N/A

What a hysterically funny movie. I mean, I really don't know what else to say -- if you've seen this movie, you love it. If you haven't seen it, you need to. Think Borat, except about a rock band. And British. And funny.

As always -- five more movies tomorrow!

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Top 50 Returns?

Wow, has it really been over a year since I did my Top 50 Favorite Movies? You know what that means -- I'll have to update my list!

Looking at this old list, I can tell you right now there will be some heavy shifting. My taste has evolved quite a bit over the last 13 months, as my appreciation for old movies continues to blossom and my fan-boy, kiddish tendencies are dying out. Plus last year had some really great movies.

Here is the previous top ten, with the rest after the cut:

1) American Beauty
2) All About Eve
3) It's a Wonderful Life
4) Annie Hall
5) The Godfather
6) Some Like It Hot
7) The Princess Bride
8) The Shawshank Redemption
9) A Streetcar Named Desire
10) A Shot in the Dark

11) Sunset Blvd.
12) Amelie
13) Casablanca
14) Dr. Strangelove
15) Psycho
16) Lilo & Stitch
17) Clue
18) Gone with the Wind
19) Halloween
20) The Producers
21) The Silence of the Lambs
22) Traffic
23) Finding Nemo
24) Blazing Saddles
25) The Departed
26) Chinatown
27) The Godfather: Part II
28) Clerks
29) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
30) Mean Girls
31) Moulin Rouge!
32) The Usual Suspects
33) Reservoir Dogs
34) Chocolat
35) About a Boy
36) Army of Darkness
37) Schindler's List
38) Ghost Busters
39) Love Actually
40) A Night at the Roxbury
41) Match Point
42) Mallrats
43) Spirited Away
44) Jerry Maguire
45) Breakfast at Tiffany's
46) Shakespeare in Love
47) The Shining
48) My Cousin Vinny
49) Fargo
50) Sabrina

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So here's my top five favorite movies! It's hard to place these five as I love them all, but here is how I favor them. . . .

5. The Godfather (1972) || IMDb
Last year: 6, up 1

The fall and rise story of the Corleone family. Why do I like this movie so much? Never a dull moment in these three hours. Every word, every shot is perfection. There's even a few funny lines: "Leave the gun. Take the cannolis." The greatness of this movie is how it gives deep characterization to the families, while also not harming a single outsider through the film (okay, maybe one in Sicily, but that's debatable). Memorable quote:

Michael: My father made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
Kay Adams: What was it?
Michael: Luca Brasi held a gun to his head, and my father assured the bandleader, that either his signature or his brains would be on the contract.

4. Annie Hall (1997) || IMDb
Last year: 10, up 6

I've watched a lot of Woody Allen movies since last year, but this is still my favorite. Manhattan is a close second, but. . . . Count on Woody Allen to string together a seemingly random array of scenes with pop culture jokes, as well as comedy ranging from racial stereotypes to the absurdness of the California mindset. Memorable quote:

Alvy Singer: Syliva Plath - interesting poetess whose tragic suicide was misinterpreted as romantic by the college girl mentality.

3. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) || IMDb
Last year: 1, down 2

Still love this movie, but I need something a little less seasonal. So Jimmy Stewart is probably my favorite actor, plus anything by Frank Capra is great. Sure it's a Christmas movie, but even in the middle of June I get sappy by the end. Cheesy? Maybe. Great movie? Definitely. Memorable quote:

Clarence: You've been given a great gift, George: A chance to see what the world would be like without you.

2. All About Eve (1950) || IMDb
Last year: 12, up 10

I may not be correct, but I'd be willing to debate against whomever this is the best movie ever made. I think I'd also have valid points. But this list is about favoritism. I wrote a very in-depth post about this movie a while back. Basically, Bette Davis is at her best, but of course Anne Baxter is pretty and charming and manipulative and evil and I love it. Joe Mankiewicz has made some solid movies, but this is without question his best. The screenplay is the highlight, in my opinion, though I may be a bit biased since I'm a creative writing major. Hell, the movie even has Marilyn Monroe, who steals scenes from even the best actors in the movie. Know why? She's freakin' Marilyn Monroe. I guess she can get the Memorable quote:

[a butler passes by]
Miss Claudia Caswell: Oh, waiter!
Addison DeWitt: That is not a waiter, my dear, that is a butler.
Miss Claudia Caswell: Well, I can't yell "Oh butler!" can I? Maybe somebody's name is Butler.
Addison DeWitt: You have a point. An idiotic one, but a point.

1. American Beauty (1999) || IMDb
Last year: 2, up 1

Who didn't see this coming? I also made a more in-depth post about this movie last year. As I already said, it's sad when Sam Mendes' directorial debut is the best movie of the last decade
(winning the Oscar for Picture, Director, Screenplay, Actor, and Cinematography), and his next films just keep getting worse and worse. Jarhead? Road to Perdition? Come on.

Kevin Spacey's fantastic in the lead, and even supporting characters stand out. Wes Bentley, even though his floating bag speech has been mocked many times, makes is so believable. I'm in love with the screenplay, and so glad they cut out the original ending (the kids at a trial). The score is mesmerizing, and I could watch this movie forever. Memorable quote:

Lester Burnham: I feel like I've been in a coma for the past twenty years. And I'm just now waking up.

Conclusion

Well, there it is. Sorry for no pictures this year. Lots of movement. Here's some stats:

New additions: 6 (Fargo, Spirited Away, Amelie, The Departed, Sabrina, Match Point)

Movies in B&W: 11

Movies that won at least one Oscar: 26
--- Best Picture winners: 11

Oldest movie: Gone With the Wind -- 1939
Newest movie: The Departed -- 2006

Biggest jump: Gone With the Wind -- up 14
Biggest fall: Jerry Maguire -- down 11
(this is of course not counting Amelie ranking 12 on a first showing)

Highest animated movie: Lilo & Stitch -- #16
Directors' count: Billy Wilder (3). Woody Allen, Stanley Kubrick, Francis Coppola, Mel Brooks, Kevin Smith all with (2).

I would do most mentioned actor/actress but that's too much work.

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Here it is, the top ten.

10. A Shot In the Dark (1964) || IMDb
Last year: 7, down 3

Much better than any of the Pink Panther movies, this somewhat of a spin-off is Clouseau at his best. A perfect blend of slapstick and traditional comedy, Peter Sellers controls the whole movie, even when he's just walking/stumbling. Memorable quote (there's so many to choose from and obviously they're much better with a French accent):

Clouseau: Facts, Hercule, facts! Nothing matters but the facts. Without them the science of criminal investigation is nothing more than a guessing game.

9. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) || IMDb
Last year: 3, down 6

It's rare when a play-turned-movie is taken word-for-word from its source material, but then again, if it isn't broken, don't fix it. Plus, Marlon Brando is pretty much the best actor ever, and then we have the lovable Vivien Leigh as Stellaaaaaaaaa! Memorable quote:

Blanche DuBois: Whoever you are, I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.

8. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) || IMDb
Last year: 4, down 4

Some serious movement for the top ten. I don't like this movie any less than last year, I just like the others that moved ahead more. Shawshank is one of those movies that was horribly overlooked in 1994/5, being shut out of the Oscars; yet over ten years later, it's seen as the best movie from '94 (and if not, then it's Pulp Fiction. Not Forest Gump, ugh). Morgan Freeman is at his best, and the way we see Tom Robbins' character from his perspective is what makes this story unique, and what makes us sympathetic. Memorable quote:

Andy Dufresne: Get busy living, or get busy dying.

7. The Princess Bride (1987) || IMDb
Last year: 5, down 2

This has been a favorite for longer than any of the others, I think. Definitely the best sword fight of all time. Also, the abundance of subtle comedy and traditional romance blends sweetly. Memorable quote:

Inigo Montoya: Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father prepare to die.

6. Some Like It Hot (1963) || IMDb
Last year: 8, up 2

Even more Billy Wilder. Jack Lemmon is great, but of course so is Tony Curtis. Cross-dressing is always funny when done right. Then, we have Marilyn Monroe, who makes any movie twenty times better. I'm chipping away at the AFI movie list, and on their separate list for Comedies, this was ranked number one. Good call. Memorable quote:

Sugar: I come from this musical family. My mother is a piano teacher and my father was a conductor.
Joe: Where did he conduct?
Sugar: On the Baltimore and Ohio.

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Top 15 is serious business. In related news, I think I fixed my desktop computer (have been using the laptop for a long time). That's good, but I don't want to jinx it, since it's only been about a day. . . .

15. Psycho (1960) || IMDb
Last year: 9, down 6

Pretty much everything Hitchcock touched became a classic, and this thriller is no exception. The pacing is perfect, and the way it shows the extremes characters go to for traits such as jealousy and greed is what makes it so good.

14. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) || IMDb
Last year: 15, up 1

I won't deny that the first time I watched this movie, I fell asleep. This was probably a few years ago. Then I watched it again when it wasn't late at night and wasn't on a computer screen, and I enjoyed it infinitely more. Peter Sellers is one of the best comic actors, even if you just count Dr. Strangelove and the his Inspector Clouseau. But it's not just the title character that makes this movie so funny. George C. Scott contributes a lot himself. The ending scene/line is awesome.

13. Casablanca (1942) || IMDb
Last year: 11, down 2

On an unbiased list of 'best' movie ever, this would be in the top 3 (I cannot just pick one, and you'll see the other two shortly). Few movies that are old have dialogue this crisp, and those that do are obviously why they are 'classics.' Ingrid Bergman is also a favorite of mine, and who can hate on Bogart? I don't think this is my favorite Bogart performance, but it's my favorite film with him in it.

12. Le Fabulex destin d'Amelie Poulain (2001) || IMDb
Last year: N/A

A big first appearance for miss Amelie. Hearing French spoken is always pleasant, and when you get to look at someone so pretty as Audrey Tautou speaking it, it's impossible not to love her. Let's also consider that she's quirky, meddling, and partially altruistic. A great character; but the movie is also great. The cinematography of Paris has received criticism for not being realistic (too pretty/clean/etc), but that's why it's so good.

11. Sunset Blvd. (1950) || IMDb
Last year: 16, up 5

Some more Billy Wilder showing up. I regretted putting this at sixteen last year, and it's rightfully moved up. 1950 was a good movie year. I really don't want to ruin the plot. . . William Holden is an out of work screenwriter who gets stranded at Gloria Swanson's mansion. Swanson is a retired silent film star who is rich, but delusional. She hires Holden to proofread her own screenplay about her life, and he gets trapped by her--not physically, but by each others' needs. Fantastic writing.

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My bad for the lapse, I spontaneously went out of town yesterday. Ten for today!

25. The Departed (2006) || IMDb
Last year: N/A

Saw it twice in theatres. . . have watch it three times since I bought it. . . . I like Leo DiCaprio more and more every year, and this movie seems like the fastest 2.5 hours in cinema history.

24. Blazing Saddles (1974) || IMDb
Last year: 22, down 2

Mel Brooks was a comedy genius. Also, Gene Wilder--so good. Obviously the best Western of all time.

23. Finding Nemo (2003) || IMDb
Last year: 21, down 2

I watched this movie many times recently, and can safely say I can quote most of it. Such great writing, and I think it's my favorite Pixar movie. Ellen DeGeneres is great, which is weird, since I kind of don't like her.

22. Traffic (2001) || IMDb
Last year: 20, down 2

Steven Soderbergh is fantastic, and I'm go glad he won Best Director. I don't know if I think it's better than Gladiator. . . . Highlight of the movie: Topher Grace as a drug addict.

21. The Silence of the Lambs (1991) || IMDb
Last year: 19, down 2

Flesh-eating Anthony Hopkins? Human skin as clothes? What more is needed for a great movie, really?

20. The Producers (1968) || IMDb
Last year: 18, down 2

More Mel Brooks, more Gene Wilder. Forget the terrible remake, go with the original. Best concept for a plot, ever. Also, Springtime For Hitler, genius.

19. Halloween (1978) || IMDb
Last year: 13, down 6

Ugh, I can't believe Rob Zombie is remaking this. My favorite horror movie, which sort of revolutionized the slasher genre.

18. Gone With the Wind (1939) || IMDb
Last year: 32, up 14

I still can't believe Victor Fleming directed both this and The Wizard of Oz in the same year, and both are so great. The more I see of Clark Gable, the more I like him. Ditto, obviously, for Vivien Leigh. So what if it's 4 hours long, it's all so good.

17. Clue (1985) || IMDb
Last year: 14, down 3

1+2+2+1. . . .

16. Lilo & Stitch (2002) || IMDb
Last year: 17, up 1

Going to ruin the countdown: this is my favorite Disney movie. I really hate kids, but it's so great watching Lilo whine. And if I ever had a pet (alien) dog, I'd definitely want him to be like Stitch. Plus, an abundance of Elvis songs? A+

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More of the Top 50 (wow, this didn't post last night for some unknown reason. Good thing I copy/pasted and didn't turn off my computer)

30. Mean Girls (2004) || IMDb
Last year: 30, no movement

Differing from many teen comedies, Mean Girls is actually a moderately mature look at High School drama. However, there's still plenty of cheesy lines that I love to quote on an everyday basis. Oh, and Lacey Chabert, Rachel McAdams. . . yay!

29. How To Lose a Guy In 10 Days (2003) || IMDb
Last year: 27, down 2

I've definitely seen this movie more times than any other movie, ever. If you gave me a list of scenes I could probably write the whole script verbatim. There's so many great lines, and something about the Kate Hudson.Matthew McConaughey pair that makes me happy. I don't know exactly why, but I really, really like this movie.

28. Clerks (1994) || IMDb)
Last year: 26, down 2

So the sequel wasn't as good, but was definitely decent. This is another movie where I laugh before the jokes happen because I've seen it so many times. I looooooooooove Randal, and also Kevin Smith's original movie.

27. The Godfather: Part II (1974) || IMDb
Last year: 25, d own 2

It's hard to write about an intellectual movie while drunk. . . . . I love, love some parts of the original DeNiro flashbacks. I'm not going to ruin them, but. . . they're amazing. Maybe I suck, but I love the 'modern' scenes with Al Pacino and his company more than the flashbacks of Vito. One of my favorite scenes of all time is when Al Pacino kisses his brother and admits he knows Fredo was 'in' on it. Freaking amazing, and I love this movie.

26. Chinatown (1975) || IMDb
Last year: 23, down 3

I still think, from a writing perspective, this is one of the best movies of all time. And I still love Jack Nicholson. The way this crime drama unfolds is perfectly paced, and Roman Polanski is a great director.

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Continuing the Top 50 favorites.

35. About a Boy (2002) || IMDb
Last year: 35, no movement

I have a soft spot for movies done by Paul Weitz, including the first American Pie, In Good Company, and About a Boy (we shall not include the god-awful American Dreamz). About a Boy shows Hugh Grant how he is--a complete asshole--and it's beaufitul. Plus, Rachel Weisz is hot, so...

34. Chocolat (2000) || IMDb
Last year: 36, up 2

The struggle of a gorgeous Juliette Binoche to support her new chocolate shoppe in a town where Lent and religion forbid it. Also, there's a completely random Johnny Depp role, which is always nice.

33. Reservoir Dogs (1992) || IMDb
Last year: 29, down 4

I used to be moderately obsessed with this movie. Definitely not as good as Pulp Fiction, but still great in its own right. This movie is more on the list because of nostalgia.

32. The Usual Suspects (1995) || IMDb
Last year: 31, down 1

Kevin Spacey is great when he's not in POS movies like Pay It Forward. The writing is fantastic, falling out of the terrible cliches that can mess up any crime movie. Also, even though there's the 'shock' ending, the best part is that even without it, the movie is still great. That's what makes it so good.

31. Moulin Rouge! (2001) || IMDb
Last year: 28, down 3

Nicole Kidman was robbed by Halle Berry come Oscar time. Say what you will, but I think this movie was much better than A Beautiful Mind (maybe not Gosford Park). I do have sort of a 'thing' for musicals, though. . . . The costumes and songs are amazing, but I guess that wasn't enough.

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Continuing the Top 50.

40. A Night at the Roxbury (1998) || IMDb
Last year: 45, up 5

Is this the movie I quote more than any other? No. . . . . yes! Okay, maybe not as much as a certain teen comedy, but this movie is great comedy.

39. Love Actually (2003) || IMDb
Last year: 42, up 3

Everyone I know, regardless of how manly or hardcore they are, has liked this movie. Just accept the fact it's a romantic comedy. I hate the tagline it had, something like 'The ultimate romantic comedy,' but it's so true. Definitely one of those 'warm, fuzzy feeling' movies. Impossible not to feel happy afterwards.

38. Ghost Busters (1984) || IMDb
Last year: 37, down 1

Do I really need to explain this choice?

37. Schindler's List (1993) || IMDb
Last year: 39, up 2

I have a hard time watching this movie more than once a year. I don't use the word 'powerful' to describe movies a lot, but this is a good place to stick it. Also, if this was a 'best movies' countdown, the placing would be much higher. Especially higher than the next choice, but. . . .

36. Army of Darkness (1992) || IMDb
Last year: 38, up 2

I'm so excited for the midnight showing of Spider-man 3, but before the Spider-man series, Sam Raimi made some great movies as well, which included a badass Bruce Campbell role with a shotgun in one hand, and a chainsaw for the other. It doesn't get much more awesome than that.

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Continuing the top 50.

45. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961) || IMDb
Last year: 41, down 4

Another Audrey Hepburn appearance. I love me some Holly Golightly. Her small quirks are the highlight of the movie. I admit, some scenes I usually skip, but overall, still very enjoyable.

44. Jerry Maguire (1996) || IMDb
Last year: 33, down 11 (ouch)

A big fall, but it's still on the list, so obviously I still like it. Probably one of Tom Cruise's best. Despite lines being mocked constantly, they're still so great in their original context.

43. Spirited Away (2001) || IMDb
Last year: N/A

Wouldn't say this is the best animated movie ever, but it's close. This is the only foreign movie I can suggest watching with English dubbing, because Disney did such a fantastic job of adapting it, you won't even notice. This is pretty far from traditional Japanese 'anime' that so many people hate, and I really, really suggest everyone give this movie a chance.

42. Mallrats (1995) || IMDb
Last year: 44, up 2

A great comedy, with too many lines to pick just one to go here. Jason Lee is the spotlight, but the running gags and great cast--which all seem to be supporting him--make this movie hilarious. Oh, and I hate the topless psychic.

41. Match Point (2005) || IMDb
Last year: N/A

Yay for Woody Allen. When I first saw this back in theaters, I was unsure how to react. I was sure, however, that Allen set out to do something unprecedented in movies, and he pulled it off. Now, having seen it four times, it's great to notice how expertly the plot unfolds, and how careful each character is in every word they speak.

Five more tomorrow.

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