I'm oddly interested in seeing 'Sweeney Todd' with Johnny Depp. It looks weird and macabre, but I'm going to trust it since I've been happy with other Burton/Depp combo movies. I also heard that the play is very good, and since I'm a theater nerd it makes me want to see it even more.

And I forgot the best gangster movie ever made: Public Enemy. And my favourite 'bad' movie ever: Mars Needs Women.

Oooooooh me too! You haven't seen the musical? You should!

We did the same thing when I was in school.. First time I saw Reefer Madness, the smell in the hall was mind-boggling (in more ways than one). But I saw a lot of things I would never have seen anywhere else. I took a film course for one year because of it, and was exposed to so many great movies.

Let's have some fun here. List your 10 favourite movies. Nothing from the last 5 years, though.

I'll start:
1. Double Indemnity
2. The Godfather
3. The Battleship Potemkin
4. M
5. Citizen Kane
6. Public Enemy
7. Casablanca
8. Sunset Boulevard
9. The Tramp
10. Star Wars

Y'know, I think it's coming to my city soon, so I'll keep an eye out for it!

I agree- I love that movie. There are a lot of movies that I think should be on the IMDB Top 250 list. Most of the old movies have been pushed off over the years because of stupid people who don't realize what a good movie is

I really want to watch all of the movies that have won Best Picture Oscars since 1929. I've seen 19 of them (there's one or two that I didn't like) but I want to see the rest.

Isn't what constitutes a "good movie" all just opinion though? And the opinions of the people who voted make up that list. Obviously people are going to disagree with some choices.

What I meant was the people who go on IMDB and randomly vote 1's and 2's on movies they've never seen. It pulls the overall ratings down if enough people do that.

Do people do that?

I'm both very very excited about this and also very very nervous. Sweeney Todd is one of my favorite musicals. LOVE IT! But, I wasn't very happy with Tim Burton's version of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory (don't throw things at me) and I'm beginning to find the fact that Tim Burton always uses Depp and Bonham-Carter in his movies a little distracting. I shouldn't let it bother me nor let it interfere with the essence of the film, but I'm having a hard time getting past the feeling that it's kind of a crutch for Burton. Furthermore, it's making it increasingly more and more difficult for me to forget that I'm watching Depp and Bonham Carter rather than watching the characters the are playing (if that makes sense.)

Anyway, I really really hope that this all works out and that Sweeney Todd is good. (*double crosses fingers*)




They sure do!

While I find the IMDB Top 250 list very interesting, I don't give it much credibility. There are a lot of movies out there that a lot of people who vote on that website haven't seen (and haven't even heard of). I think that's why more recent films tend to get a lot of votes and quickly move up that list. (Afterall, it's often a current popular movie that attracts a lot of people to the website to begin with.) You can really only tell what movies should be on that list if they withstand the test of time. But nonetheless, what is popular now unfortunately tends to bump off more deserving movies. (And yeah, where in the heck is Birth Of A Nation? That is considered to be a very critical piece of filming.)

Another interesting list of movies are the annual AFI 100 lists. Unfortunately, those only include American Movies, but they are still a pretty decent list of movies to watch. But I also tend to think that any list relating to the arts should be reviewed with a grain of salt. Afterall, it's all so subjective and the criteria for what should or shouldn't be on the list is very vague. I mean, how do you really define what is a great movie? Its popularity? Its impact on other films and the industry? What about its impact on society? Or its originality? Sometimes those things all go hand in hand, but not always.

Nonethess, I still find lists intriguing and a good starting point for getting ideas for things to watch/listen too/ whatever. I just don't think they should be taken too seriously.

Just my un-requested .02

Just saw "Enchanted". It was adorable. Probably won't be making anyone's top 10 list (unless they're 9 years old) but it was an excellent distraction. Plus it had a musical singing and dancing number in Central Park, complete with stilt walkers (which we don't see enough of, frankly). Oh, and some sort of cute guy Patrick Dempsey.

Do you have proof? Like a website with those statistics proving that?

I don't give the IMDB list much credibility either, but it is what the people voted for. It's what the people who voted liked. I never said that it should be taken seriously, I just to want to know where the notion that the people who are voting have never seen the movies comes from.

And I don't think people should be judged for having different taste.

Birth of a Nation is considered the first full length feature film. Why does that automatically make it one of the best? Many people have put that movie on the top lists just because of its distinction, but now it seems people are shying away from that. With good reason, with the way movies are going. There are other better movies out there.

I love the short novel "Skipping Christmas" by John Grisham....but the movie is less than stellar . I just caught the tail end of it on FX (but I've seen it before) and I think it's cheesy and not well done. Just sayin'.

I rented Waitress tonight. I'm really excited to watch this. I'll proberly curl up in bed around 1am and put it on.

No, you are right. I don't have proof an it is mainly my assumption. However, for the most part I do think there are a lot of movies that are not considered just because they have not been heard of. I base this assumption on my conversations with others who do not seem to be aware of movies that existed beyond their generation. I also base some of my assumption (or maybe 'impression' is a more accurate word) on my past participation on the IMDB boards. Furthermore, I was more or less making an hypothesis as to why more popular movies of to day rank so high.

Actually, I think there is a way to look for data on this. I think there's a way to find out what movies get voted on the most.

But you are absolutely right, I have no data to back up my assumptions or opinions.

However, I don't think popular opinion necessarily equals a good movie. I guess it's important to consider what exactly the list is supposed to represent. And some may argue (I'm not making a claim that that is what I'm arguing) that seeing the inclusion of certain movies and the exclusion of others says a lot of negative things about how people view films. (Also, I never made any claims that anyone took the list too seriously, and I wasn't directing my entire post at Bailey. I was just offering my critique of the IMDB Top 250 list and what it means to me.)

Ok, here's a variation of the IMDB list that I would like to see. It may be way out in left field and it would never be done this way, but I'd still like to throw it out there. I'd rather that movies made in the last ten years (I would even go down to as low as the last five years) could not be voted on. If people still love the movie that much after five years, then I think it would be a more accurate list of overall popular opinion and tastes.



I don't know if this is specifically directed at me, but I don't believe I'm judging anyone. I don't really care what movies anyone likes. Lord knows I don't always have the best taste in movies. I like what I like and I find I'm a lot happier when I just give into that. I always try my best to not impose my tastes on anyone else and get infuriated when I feel like people are imposing their tastes on me or anyone else for that matter. (Actualy, those people generally end up getting ignored. ) However, I thought we were talking about lists here, not tastes.



And see, that highlights the point I was trying to make about the AFI lists (and all art/entertainment lists in general). I asked rhetorically under what criteria do we make lists? There are way too many options that I don't think you can really create a list that is the be all end all. (And I'm not just talking about a list where everyone agrees with everything that is exhibited). I'll re-quote myself:



Birth of a Nation is very important in terms of film, and not just because it was the first full length feature film, but because of it's filming and editing techniques as well as what was back then considered 'special effects'. Are there better films out there today. Heck Yeah! But it was revolutionary for it's time and crucial for the overall evolution of film. So, it's really difficult to say if it belongs on a set list of great films. By today's standards it wouldn't pass (and it would be down right offensive and most likely start riots). But what do you say when it plays a significant part in the standards that we do have today?

This idea and the idea that people are voting for movies they never seen are two completely different things.


Nobody ever made that claim.

If you look at the IMDB 250 list, there are two sets of numbers. One indicates what people rated the movie and the other shows how many people actually gave their opinion about that movie. The rankings are very varied on how they got where they are on the list. It will change over time. It should be noted that a few of those movies were voted by many people, while others weren't, and they are very close to each other on the list.


Birth of a Nation ranked #44 on the AFI 100 Greatest Films of all time a ten years ago. In their newest list, it doesn't rank at all. Movies having a significant part of the evolution in film does not mean that it is one of the best.

When movies such as Citizen Kane and Casablanca continue to stand the test of time, it is telling that Birth of a Nation didn't get that same respect.

People can still recognize and appreciate Birth of a Nation for what it was, and thank it for it's part in cinema. Just like they will thank The Jazz Singer for starting talkies (#90 on the old AFI list, also taken off the new one). These movies will never be forgotten for what they did- but people move on to bigger and better things.

It may not be what should happen, but it is what does happen.

Yikes. I didn't mean for my one little sentence to start all of this.

I think the thing I had in mind when I originally wrote what I did was people I've met before who disregard black and white movies because they are either "old" or "not in color" They don't pay attention to the story or the characters in the movie- just the appearance. I had a friend one time who thought black and white movies were boring. Why? She could never really tell me a direct reason but from what I understand it's because the movies are old- so they don't mean anything today.

I'm not anti-modern movie at all. Some of my favorite movies are from recent years. Like I said- my original point was that I wish people wouldn't down rate movies just because they are old. That's all I was trying to say

Older movies are a weird subject for me. I haven't seen enough to give a full opinion. I understand that a lot of the older movies are based on character development and dialouge and not visual effects or violence.

I'd say your friend probably falls under the category most do. That category is people who need visual stimulation during a movie to stay interested. I fall into this category to a certain extent.

The older movies I have enjoyed most were sci-fi flicks that my uncle has. I like John Wayne and some of his black and white's were pretty good. I haven't seen any of the types of movies all of you discuss on here. Maybe you could give me a reccomendation on an older movie I might like...mind you, I'm a dude.

And as far as IMDB's top 250, it is tough to take the site seriously for this reason.

In IMDB's voting opinion, the greatest movie of all time is rated a 9.1...

Need I say more?

I take all movie ratings and lists with a grain of salt. Can you get any more subjective then movie opinions?

Sometimes I movie just doesn't work for you, despite having all the elements of a film you'd like. Case in point (for me personally) - "Barton Fink". I really should have loved that film. I like the Coen brothers, the actors, the storyline, etc. That film did nothing for me. But 'The Big Lebowski' is easily one of the best comedies I ever seen.

IMDB rates 'A Clockwork Orange' as the #49 best film. I can't think of 48 films better then that masterpiece. That's one of the few films with subject matter that changes completely depending on how deep you want to take the story.

There are people that fall into that category. Just like I have a hard time getting people to watch movies with subtitles (Pan's Labyrinth!). They just don't want to bother.

But there really is a different feel to how movies were made back then and how they are made today. Like I said in another post, people move on to bigger and better things, and they get used to seeing stories told in a certain way. So when it comes down to watching an older movie, it is hard to concentrate.

I like black and white films, I've seen many many many of them. But I can relate to the "boring" factor. I just try to overcome that to see a movie so many said was good- and they are usually right. But, they are hard to get used to.

Another thing: Sometimes I think that everyone should take at least one of film class, because it opened my eyes to so many new things. Even modern movies that I had no respect for come off in a different light when you watch them to analysis them. And it is fun to know what to look for in a well made movie. For instance, Shaun of the Dead, I saw that a few weeks ago. The filmmakers use the color red in that movie to foreshadow danger and death in the beginning of that movie. It was brilliant. But would I have appreciated that without loving the analysis of how people use color in their films? Nope. That's something that I learned to look for. To me, brilliant movies are the ones that combine so many small elements where you know the filmmaker took their time to make the movie (Hitchcock!), regardless of when they were made or what color they are in.



That's because it's an average total. Getting 100% would be near impossible, especially considering how subjective movies are.

That drives me crazy when people won't watch a movie with subtitles. I know several people that would love 'Pan's Labyrinth' but won't give it a chance.

Here is the link to the dark French fantasy film I mentioned earlier

The City of Lost Children

My pick for the finest movie not out on DVD is 'The Devil's from Ken Russell

The Devil's

This is a brilliant film starring Oliver Reed and Vanessa Redgrave. It's about witch trials and supposed demonic possesion in seventeenth century France. It's not a horror film, but rather a struggle for political influence and power.

Another outstanding film not release on DVD is 'A Summer Story'

A Summer Story

This is a true tear jerker romance. Have the tissues handy if you watch this one. It is very powerfull and moving. The sad moments of JAM were a walk in the park compared to this film.

And the truth about subtitles? It's only an issue the first 10 minutes of the movie, then you get used to it, and it's like they're not even there. But trying to explain that to people? They don't understand, but won't try it.

Thanks for the movie link, RC.

I just watched Twist (2003) with Nick Stahl , through Receptionist's recommendation, and I really liked it! Of course Nick was not only super cute and hot, but he is SUCH a brilliant actor! Also cool that they mentioned Quebec and Montreal. It was quite depressing, which I don't mind. The cinematography and technical aspects were really well done. All in all, good, and Nick just made it SO much better , sorry, I'll stop gushing now !

I'm watching this now! After 20 minutes I wanted to turn it off but I loved the Central Park montage!

Oh oh.......and the semi-bad guy Nathaniel is the skevy rat from Harry Potter! He plays skevy very well!

I watched, just friends, little miss sunshine and part of waitress with my mom. From what I've seen, Waitress is really good too

Anyone see 'National Treasure'? Opinions?

It looks like the kind of film I may enjoy but I've never gotten around to watching it.

^^ I personally don't like Nic cage. I get lost in his acting and focus on what a heavy breather he is. Do it I dare you and you'll get to the point where you notice it all time in every single movie! Get him a breathe right strip pronto!

The concept is great. It's no Indiana Jones, but it is enjoyable and fun.


I watched Hairspray today. I was a little nonchalant about it because I've seen the musical and the original movie version, and was over it. But, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It's the same old story, but it was well done. I think I liked it better than the Ricki Lake version, anyway.

^^ you did. I can't bring myself to rent it. I like the orginal movie to much and was put off by the cr@p verison of the producers

Enchanted was alot better than I thought at first watching it. I really enjoyed Patrick Dempsys character more than I thought I would Amy Adams was great with being able to keep her 'wide eyed innocence happy happy joy joy' attitude all the time like they do in animated movies.

The only part that bugged me and that was over the top was Susan Sarandon

I'd reccomend Hairspray if you like musicals. I really didn't want to see it, and didn't think I'd like it at all, but it was so well made and the whole cast is so talented. They really did an excellent job with it, and it's a fun movie.

Watching and posting? Pray tell...how did you accomplish this?

Ancient Chinese secret

I actually didn't think I was going to like Hairspray at all either. But I ended up loving it- so much so that I saw it twice in the theaters.

I finally got to see Enchanted today. I thought it was really cute

Waitress was brillant. It's worth renting. It's sweet, sad and funny. It's more heart breaking cause you know adrianne shelley was killed before it's release. I watched it and got a lot more out of it than I thought. It kinda hits you with the whole, be honest with yourself thing.

I've really been wanting to see it. I was going to go when it was in theaters but I never made it. Maybe I'll rent it this weekend or something

Just watched Hot Rod--what a ridiculous movie! RC, your girl Isla Fisher was in it and the soundtrack was crazy--cheesy arena rock music!!

I just watched 'Reign Over Me' with Adam Sandler, about the guy whose family dies on one of the planes of 9/11. It's a really touching movie. BJ actually has a part in it, and he's a little twerp!! I wanted to punch him through the TV!

I love indie films. But unfortunetly you need to sit through a lot of them to find a good one.

I really enjoyed this film

Fishing with Ghandi

It's a comedy about a couple of wacky brothers who pick up a hippie hitchhiking. The brothers seem a bit deranged so I kept expecting a 'Texas Chainsaw' or 'Deliverance' type twist to happen. But the brothers are actually good-hearted.

This is a dialogue movie (so Kevin Smith fans should love it) and it's pretty funny!

I watched halloween 2 again, Dana carvey is in it? What was with guys in the 80's with that big permed typed hair. I'm using my rent one get one free coupon tomorrow. I can't wait for superbad!

Already in the mail to me from Blockbuster yaay!

Yeah, I saw that a couple weeks ago. Great movie...both Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle were very compelling in their roles. Agreed on BJ too...I had to laugh when the judge told him to shut his mouth.

Haha, yes, "No, really, you need to shut up". haha! I was pretty suprised by Adam Sandler's acting. He was very believable as Charlie, and I can't imaging thats an easy role to play.

I haven't seen the movie yet, but does Adam Sandler punch anyone in it?? I've noticed that he has to punch someone in nearly all of his movies. It think it's only 1 or 2 that he doesn't punch someone in.

Haha, no he doesn't. But he does have a violent temper in this movie.

Oh, and he's from Manchester, NH...I live 15 mins from Manchester, and I have to say, all the guys around here always have to be punching something. Or talking about punching someone. It seems like all guys in or around Boston always have to be "tough guys".

I loved Reign Over Me. We saw it in the theatre and I was hysterically crying. I was surprised that it didn't do that well.

And yeah, I wanted to punch BJ, too.

For some reason, I lost it when he kissed his MIL on the cheek. I wish they got more in depth with the ending, but it was still a good movie.

I cried then, too, but I really lost it when he told the story of what happened and that explained why he kept doing the kitchen over. A few pages back I discussed how I cry at all movies!