It wasn't an easy task for me to restrict this list to 10, which means that I had to leave out some films other people might have included. It may irk a few people to see their favourite films missing, but then this is a personal choice.
Since I do not rank these movies, they are arranged in a chronological order.
Here we go !
1. City Lights (1931)
Dir - Charlie Chaplin
One of the gems of silent era, this film tells the story of a blind girl and a tramp. You have to watch this if you call yourself a movie fan. Hilariously funny and emotionally touching, it has one of greatest and most touching finale of any film.
This is probably Chaplin's greatest work, and that's saying something.
2. Citizen Kane (1941)
Dir - Orson Welles
In his first film, Orson Welles created what is said to be the biggest cinematic landmark since pictures first started moving. Not only a very good film, but very important also. Volumes have been written about the film's numerous innovative ideas and techniques.
An epic tale of a publishing tycoon's rise and fall, a must watch.
3. 12 Angry men (1957)
Dir - Sidney Lumet
Sydney Lumet's directorial debut is a dramatic tale about a jury of 12 average people, which has to decide on a case of murder. Brilliantly acted, directed and superbly written, the movie leaves a tremendous impact. Confined to just a hot room and 12 men, the movie has no action, just lot of words.
A must watch film about debate and dialogue; and courage.
4. Lawrence Of Arabia (1962)
Dir - David Lean
Even though it is nearly four hours long, it is definitely worth the time. A brilliant script combined with masterful direction and grand performances, the film is majestic from every angle, not to mention the score by Maurice Jarre. And words are just not enough to describe its cinematography, you have to see it.
Only problem is that it is a shame not to watch it on big screen.
5. Dr. Strangelove (1964)
Dir - Stanley Kubrick
For me, it is the best black comedy that I have seen. Set during the height of the Cold War, it is a vicious satire on politics and military. Peter Sellers is brilliant in the triple role that he plays and the film is filled with memorable lines.
Watch it. The Cold War may be over, but the film is as relevant today as it was then.
6. The Godfather (1972)
Dir - Francis Ford Coppola
What to say about one of the greatest movies ever made !
Based on the novel of the same name by Mari Puzo, this epic tale of mafia life in America set new standards for cinema. One of the greatest commercial and critical successes, this is probably the most talked about Hollywood film.
A filmmaker and audience's dream alike, it gets everything right .You have to be insane not to like it.
WATCH IT, if you haven't already.
7. Schindler's List (1993)
Dir - Steven Spielberg
I always thought of Spielberg as a director who only directed those adventure movies like Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones and E.T. So it came to me as a surprise when i first watched this film.
Based on a true story, its the best film on the Jewish Holocaust. Scene after scene, Spielberg creates what is, for me, his best work ever. Grand performances from the three lead actors exemplary.Shot in black and white, the movie is a real masterpiece. Even if you are not fond of movies, you have to see this one.
And if you are not moved by it, you do not deserve decent company.
8. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Dir - Quentin Tarantino
Pulp Fiction is what a brilliant director can do when he wants to.
Its violent, wicked, funny and a visual treat. A screenplay that is hard to keep up with till the movie ends and magnificent cast make it a top notch watch. But the coolest things in the film are its dialogues and the encyclopedic grasp of Quentin Tarantino over film making on display.
A cult classic, it is a metamovie in a sense, referring to other works. A roller coaster ride that you shouldn't miss.
9. Finding Nemo (2003)
Dir - Andrew Stanton
Animation doesn't get better than this.
Good screenplay, talented voice work, controlled direction and animation by Pixar so expressive, it makes the similar efforts by DreamWorks and others useless. Whether it is the waves of the sea or the colours of the fishes, everything is just wonderful. But what makes it such a pleasure from start to end is the story that appeals to everyone, a movie about finding your courage ,fighting your fears and family values.
Highly recommended.
10. The Dark Knight (2008)
Dir - Christopher Nolan
It may not be as great as some of the other movies on this list, but there is no denying the fact that it is for movies like these that we go to cinemas.
Dark and complex, it is undoubtedly the best superhero movie till date. A tight script and screenplay written by the brothers Christopher Nolan & Jonathan Nolan (who also wrote Memento), is what sits at the heart of this film. However, the film is further elevated by its direction, good cinematography, and an unforgettable performance by Heath Ledger as the Joker.
A boon for the lovers of the genre, it is a movie everyone should watch.
You never write something I can comment upon!!!
ReplyDeleteHow about trying to write about some commonplace events? So that people like me with not so much diverse knowledge can have n experience of your writing skills? Kiddin...will try to watch them all!