Fantaverse Top 100 Movies of All Time (Thread #4): 70-61

[numbersix]

Ah ok. I guess my point is that before Scott's recent recut the 1992 Director's Cut was considered to be the ultimate edition, even if it's not Scott's complete vision.

[Chienfantome]

Chienfantome: Two Lovers (2008) – Wow, if you judged him by the critics, James Gray comes across as a very minor director of very average films. I remember this coming out a while ago but reviews were so poor that I skipped it.

Actually, in France, James Gray has always had terrific reviews, and is highly considered. His last three films, The Yards, We Own the Night and Two Lovers were all selected at Cannes and nominated for the Golden Palm. Which is saying as to how he is loved here. Don't listen to those who say Two Lovers is minor. It is not.

[silversurfer19]

We actually watched it the other day and it was pretty good. Strong performances from Phoenix (expected) and Paltrow (surprisingly) and a nice pace to the movie. I can see how some may have found it a little on the dull side I guess, and the ending was very predictable, but for the most part I enjoyed seeing how they got to that point.

[Buscemi]

I never understood the negative reviews for We Own the Night in the US (many critics considered it too similar to The Yards). I thought it was a good crime drama with some variations that set it apart from other crime films (such as making the main characters be of Russian ancestry rather than the Irish and Italians usually seen). I also have the DVD and the original one-sheet for the film.

[Chienfantome]

#67

Shryke - Diggstown
I have never ever heard of that movie. The premise is fun, and I love Oliver Platt (and yes, Graham looks cute in it), but I don't see how such a film could be Top 100 material.

Surfer - Oldboy

Park Chan-Wook may have been disappointing those past few years, but there are a few films of his that are quite remarkable. Move the "quite" away. Oldboy is a one of the most mesmerizing films of the past decade, and clearly one that showed the world what Korean cinema is capable of. I have got a few Korean films coming up myself (is that a surprise ?), and there might be some Park Chan Wook in there...

greenarrow - Office Space
A very nice comedy full of great characters. Always a pleasure to watch.

transformers - Friday Night Lights
I've never seen it, and had it been released in theater in France, I probably would have gone and see it, as it looked better than most of the usual US sports movies.

ozzy - No country for old men
I'm in the clan that think that this Coen Bros movie is a bit overrated. I thought it was great, but not THAT great. I'm in the clan that did not hold onto the last act of the film. There are several Coen films I much prefer.

Ron B - Life of Brian
A gem of a comedy. The Monty Pythons are up there in the genre, totally nuts, subtly smart, and this is full proof of that. It's classic sequence after classic sequence.Irresistible.

Buscemi - Braindead
I had never heard of it under the title "Dead/Alive". And I still haven't seen it !

Die Hard
You do not name many studio blockbusters, but you name some, you do name the best, Six, so close to the also inevitable Jurassic Park. Die Hard is a reference for good reasons. It's the masterpiece of its genre, so many times copied, never equalled.

Banks - Gone Baby Gone
Even if I would not put it in a Top 100, I totally understand your love for this film, Banks. I happen to truly admire it too, because I think the exact opposite of Six : I think the writing is good, the direction is good, and the atsmophere is good. And the acting ? Goooooooood Great film.

Barca - In Bruges
Good film. It's fun and the writing is really well crafted. I don't consider it essential, but it's a good film.

Geezer - Kung Pow
Haven't seen it, and I most definitely don't want to see it...

Pan's Labyrinth
Guillermo Del Toro is a magician of cinema, and this is a beautiful proof of that. I don't have any film of his in my Top, but I admire him a lot.

W - Empire Strikes back
The. Best. Star Wars. Ever.

[Shrykespeare]

#67

Shryke - Diggstown
I have never ever heard of that movie. The premise is fun, and I love Oliver Platt (and yes, Graham looks cute in it), but I don't see how such a film could be Top 100 material.

See it, and you'll see. It's sharp, witty, smart, easy-to-follow, with great characters and more than enough twists and double-crosses between the beginning and the end to keep you guessing.

[Shrykespeare]

MOVIE #66


Shrykespeare

Saw (2004) – Director: James Wan; starring Cary Elwes, Danny Glover, Tobin Bell and Leigh Whannell. Forget for just a moment the six sequels that this film spawned. Remember, if you can, a time when this was the only Saw film in existence. Before this, “intelligent horror” was practically an oxymoron. I still have tons of admiration from the creators of this film, who fashioned a story that satisfied my serial-killer movie aficionado without dumbing it down. It didn’t try to be too clever for its own sake; it just was, simply, clever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKPy5RWuqNA


silversurfer

The Big Lebowski (1998) – Directors: Joel and Ethan Coen; starring Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Julianne Moore and John Turturro. For the most part I'd probably say I'm a bigger fan of The Coens' darker works than their comedies, however, for my first pick from the guys I had to chose this, one of the funniest and quote-worthy movies I've ever watched. That's not to say there are not any of The Coens' typical noir-esque moments but what really sets this movie apart from their others is the comedy. The dialogue is razor sharp and witty, visually its stunning, as we have now come to expect from them, and the cast are relentlessly funny. I don't know how many times I've watch this now, but I find myself in a pool of tears on every viewing. I love the partnership of Buscemi and Goodman, I love John Turturro as Jesus, and I love the Bridges can be so laid back and deflated but still be funnier than most comedians could ever try to be. It's surreal, flamboyant and completely over the top, but that all adds up to it being one of the movies I have most fun watching. (2nd appearance)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIoSr29OsRM


thegreenarrow

Giant (1956) – Director: George Stevens; starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and James Dean. (3rd appearance)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMG_ipol-MI


transformers

Hot Rod (2007) - Director: Akiva Schaffer; starring Andy Samberg, Isla Fisher, Bill Hader, IanMcShane and Danny McBride. Hot Rod is such a stupid film, but at the same time it's just way too fucking funny. I have seen this film 6 or 7 times and it just does not lose its luster. The cast is really strong and are all pretty much experts at zany comedy (it even has Ian McShane and Sissy Spacek! As Andy Samberg's parents). It's a completely zany film that's not for everyone, but for anyone that enjoys a really silly film, they don't get much better than Hot Rod.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh2WcxP4XU8


englishozzy

Vertigo (1958) - Director: Alfred Hitchcock; starring James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbera Bel Geddes and Tom Helmore. The second Hitchcock film to appear on my list, and this is by far his greatest piece of work. No scene in this film feels that it could be cut from it as they are all absolutely perfect. Hitchcock is at his very best creating a chilling thriller that gives the audience vertigo just by watching it. Stewart and Novak put in outstanding performances and Herrmann creates one of my personal favorite scores. A must-watch if you haven't seen it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0bV2gh4E7Y


Ron Burgundy

Zoolander (2001) - Director: Ben Stiller; starring Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, David Duchovny, Jerry Stiller, Milla Jovovich, Jon Voight and Chistine Taylor. Ok, I know what you cinema purists are thinking “yuck”’. Well remember my name is Ron Burgundy so yeah this is a very funny movie in my book. So many laughs, a lot which stem from male models and dumb behaviour. Did you know Vince Vaughn is in this? (2nd appearance)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWpcfA8vY-c


Buscemi

Boogie Nights (1997) - Director: Paul Thomas Anderson; starring Mark Wahlberg, Julianne Moore, Burt Reynolds, Heather Graham and Don Cheadle. In my opinion, this is Paul Thomas Anderson's masterpiece. An epic tale about the rise and fall of the porn industry told from the viewpoints of many characters. Over its long 155 minute run time, it never once feels boring and you keep wanting to watch to see what will happen next. Perhaps the greatest film Robert Altman never made. (2nd appearance)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkkcvtrIUSg


Chienfantome

Gran Torino (2008) – Director: Clint Eastwood, starring Clint Eastwood, Ahney Her and Bee Vang. I know one Irishman who will not agree with me on this choice (but what the heck does he know about cinema anyway ? ), but Gran Torino sits in my Top, and with time, chances are he will climb up rather than go down. But it’s no surprise, as I hold Clint Eastwood’s talent as a filmmaker very high in my book, as you will notice in the coming weeks. Gran Torino did not turn out as I expected. The truth is, back when it was released, a couple of years ago, we knew so little about the film that all I expected from it is what the trailer made it look like : a vigilante suburb film with Clint cleaning the streets from Asian gangs. Wrong. Gran Torino takes another route. The route of encounters. How human encounters are unexpected, how friendship cannot be calculated, how difficult it can be to feel close to people we call family while we discover a proximity, a bond, with a stranger community. The film also serves as a powerful metaphor on Eastwood’s own career as an actor and director, both deeply moving and incredibly funny. (2nd appearance)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHRiP6TRtnE


numbersix

Strangers on a Train (1951) - Director: Alfred Hitchcock; starring Farley Granger, Robert Walker and Ruth Roman. The first and most certainly not the last appearance of a Hitchcock film on my list, Strangers on a Train is the director’s most solid thriller. Everyone knows the tale of two strangers, who agree to murder the meddling woman in the other’s life. For Guy Haines it’s his ex-wife, and for Bruno Anthony it’s his overbearing mother. You don’t even have to note the homoerotic subtext to enjoy the film’s excellent plotting, great visuals (the tennis match towards the end, seen in the clip below), or the great climax. Not to mention it’s a criticism on our ambitions and how they can overpower our sense of morality. And there’s the added bonus that this film is one of the rare examples in which a Hitch leading lady isn’t just a passive, screaming blonde.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=912SwVfSqRM


Banks

Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) - Director: Quentin Tarantino; starring Uma Thurman, David Carradine, Daryl Hannah and Michael Madsen. I know most people like the action-heavy Vol. 1, but I really liked the dialogue-heavy Vol. 2 just as much. There are few that can write dialogue better than Tarantino, and taking his great premise and characters from Vol. 1 and injecting more of his trademark wordsmanship is a match made in Heaven. Plus there’s more than a handful of great actions scenes to boot: the claustrophobic fight in the trailer is probably one of the best of either film, behind only the Crazy 88 fight. (2nd appearance, kind of)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSR7xRGBnOE


BarcaRulz

The City of Lost Children (1995) - Directed By: Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro; starring Daniel Emilfork, Ron Perlman, and Judith Vettet. Pretty much everything fits in perfectly with this pick. The story, the acting, the setting, the mood, and the soundtrack. It's rare to find a movie that is innovative as this, but still finds the time to perfect all the little details as well. Also one of the rare films that gets better with repeat viewings.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNYG9cXTSds


Geezer

Orange County (2002) - Director: Jake Kasdan; starring Colin Hanks, Jack Black and Schuyler Fisk. Orange County is completely underrated to me. But maybe its just the personal connection I feel with the film. It’s a film that I just love, from the humor, to each character, to everything that happens, I just think its a wonderful little film that doesn't get the credit it deserves. If I had to compare myself to any one character in cinematic history, the character of Shaun Brumder from this film would be it. I relate to this character on a level that I can't really get from any other. If you haven't seen it, I'd definitely recommend giving it a try. Sometimes films can be really simple and it makes them that much more effective, and I think that is what happens here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aHY8yTkWb0


leestu

The Evil Dead (1981) – Director Sam Raimi; starring Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweiss and Richard DeManincor.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8Bi9mGv1J8


W

Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997) - Director: Jay Roach; starring Mike Myers, Elizabeth Hurley, and Seth Green. It really shows you what Mike Myers is capable of. This one has lots of comedic one-liners that you couldn't get away from when it came out, and for good reason. The series has so many that sometimes it's hard to remember which movie each are from. It's a really funny spoof of the 60's James Bond films and there aren't too many better comedic villains than Dr. Evil.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVaz8ZZxoxo

[numbersix]

MOVIE #66

Shrykespeare: Saw (2004) – There is intelligent horor around, but this certainly isn't it. Twist-heavy horror is more accurate for this proto-torture-porn. After the franchise became a success I decided to watch this, and I can't say I was disappointed (I wasn't expecting much) but it made me not want to waste my time on the sequels. To be honest, it's predictable who isn't the killer, but the final twist is so ridiculously stupid that it's almost a comedy.

silversurfer: The Big Lebowski (1998) – Took me asecond viewing to "get" this, but once I did I was hooked and the film feels fresh and funny with every viewing.

thegreenarrow: Giant (1956) – Wow, this movie is getting some lovin.

transformers: Hot Rod (2007) - Haven't seen it, and although I do like Samberg's SNL shorts, this was not received well over here.

englishozzy: Vertigo (1958) - Hitchcock at his best, a perfect blend of tense thriller and psychological horror. No one explored the mind as brilliantly as Hitchcock and could squeeze that all into a seemingly typical thriller. One of Hermann's best scores, too.

Ron Burgundy: Zoolander (2001) - Well, for the most part it made me laugh.

Buscemi: Boogie Nights (1997) - The Altman comparison is spot on, although I think there's a touch more humour in this.

Chienfantome: Gran Torino (2008) – Hehe, it's good to get a mention in your write up. Hopefully from now on whenever you think of this film you'll think of my disapproving look (just don't picture me as a leprachaun). I guess the difference comes from our regard of Clint. you see him as a "classical" film-maker, but I don't remember the classics being that dull. Clint is a "safe" film-maker, he lacks imagination. Even his best idea (the Iwo Jima films) fall flat on their faces. I think Clint's films are overly simplistic, and often cliched (Million Dollar Baby being the worst). And this certainly fits into that, with its insulting portrayal of a hard-ass war-vet using violence to solve the problems of ethnic minority gangs.
You say it's about family, but Clint doesn't portray his character's bond and integration with the Hmong as much as he portrays what a saviour his character is, making his character a martyr and also patronising his neighbours, who are all portrayed as weak and useless. It isn't a film about a bond with a community, it's about how the old way of life (violence, "toughness") is society's only solution. Clint has finally become Dirty Harry.

Banks: Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) - Yeah, I guess Vol 1 impressed me because it showed how great QT was at action, and not just hip dialogue. There's plenty to like in Vol 2. The Pai Mei story is brilliant, as is the fight between Thurman and Hannah. But I feel there's a few unnecessary moments, as the Michael Madsen stuff drags on a tad too much, and the whole South American prostitutes feels completely pointless.

BarcaRulz: The City of Lost Children (1995) - A visually stunning film, and Jeunet is great at sucking the audience into his world. One of the best fantasy films of the 90's.

Geezer: Orange County (2002) - I remember going to a preview of this film and expecting to hate it because it's an MTV movie, and they're almost always shallow, desperate to appear cool, and full of superfluous music-heavy moments. While there's a few of the latter I actually found Orange County to be enjoyable. I think the film has a heart to it, and I really appreciated that.

leestu: The Evil Dead (1981) – Both scary and funny at the same time. I think I prefer the sequel, but this is entertaining stuff.

W: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997) - The only half decent one, because it is a valid spoof on how backwards James Bond had become. The backstory to every henchman killed is genius. Sadly the sequels just became self-parody and weren't funny at all.

[Ron Burgundy]

Some terrific movies here. Will soon start catching up one the ones on top of the must see list

Shrykespeare
Saw
Glad to see somebody else appreciates this, I agree with everything you said, James Wan and Leigh Whannell, what a success story.
9.5/10, 4 views
Diggstown
This sounds really good, I have gotta check it out.
N/A
Chicken Run
A terrific story with terrific entertainment.
9/10, 3 views


silversurfer
The Big Lebowski
One hell of a movie, Jeff Bridges is in top form, and John Goodman pretty much steals the show. The Coens are very good, and I anticipate everything they do these days.
8/10, 3 views
Oldboy
Ill have to add my comments later, this is a stunning movie.
10/10, 1 view
Night of the Living Dead
N/A

thegreenarrow
Alien
Im so glad to have re-watched this very recently. It’s a terrific movie and ill say more about it when it comes up later for me.
10/10, 2 views
Office Space
Not so surprised to see this again, it’s a great movie. It’s a cult film that probably hasn’t been seen by enough people. Top ending too.
8/10, 2 views

transformers
Hot Rod
Im a little shocked to see this appear in someones top 100. I don’t mind Andy Samberg and Bill Hader but this movie just didn’t get me cracked up, its just a little too stupid or maybe trying too hard to be stupid/funny. Sorry but theres a lot of better comedies out there.
3.5/10, 1 view
Friday Night Lights
I think I watched part of this when I was drunk but never finished it. And so the incredible run of 32 films ive seen from your top 100 so far ends.
N/A
Saving Private Ryan
A grear war film, one which ive only seen twice. But yeah Tom Hanks plays well, and the supporting cast is good too. Excellent intro.
7.5/10, 2 views

englishozzy
Vertigo
You know, I wish I liked this, but I just didn’t. I had heard so much about it, but when I finally got round to watching it, I sorta couldn’t wait for it to finish. Ok, maybe the end twist just mystified people back in the 60s, but it didn’t really make me flinch. Perhaps I should watch this again, but after I see some more Hitchcock.
4.5/10, 1 view
No Country For Old Men
The Coen brothers did a little differently than usual in this film I thought, it wasn’t funny but it was captivating, I didn’t want to take my eye off the screen. Maybe not so unusual (similar to Millers Crossing), and Javier Bardem is excellent.
8/10, 1 view
Oceans 11
I think you may cop a bit of flak for choosing this one Ozzy, but not from me, I really enjoy watching this cast together, Damon, Pitt and Clooney are covering well for one another. Yes I agree Soderberg did a good job here too. Entertaining all the way through.
7.5/10, 3 views

Buscemi
Boogie Nights
Good pick, good film.
7/10, 2 views
Dead/Alive
If this is that one thegreenarrow chose as Braindead, then I really want to see it.
N/A
Terminator 2: Judgement Day
An epic action blockbuster, actually surprised to see this only appear now, I’d say it will appear again pretty soon. Yes Robert Patrick plays one of the best villains ever. And I sort of wish Ed Furlong makes a comeback; just chill man!
8/10, 4 views

Chienfantome
Gran Torino
Nah, not as good as its acclaimed to be. Im sorry, a friend of mine made me watch it and I just didn’t love it like he did and many more people.
5/10, 1 view
Two Lovers
Sounds ok, will try and hunt it down for a rainy day.
N/A
A Self Mad Hero
Well, I haven’t seen The Prophet yet, but if you rate this ahead of that, I had better have a closer look.
N/A

numbersix
Strangers on a Train
Ive actually wanted to watch this for a long time, ever since I saw this opening seen at Uni, with the two different pairs of shoes walking to the train. It goes on the list.
Die Hard
Well, its just about a perfect action movie. Superb choice.
10/10, 5 views
Lost Highway
If David Lynch did it, ive just got to see it.
N/A

Banks
Kill Bill Vol. 2
I liked No. 1 much better. But this aint bad.
7/10, 1 view
Gone Baby Gone
A really good debut directoral effort from Ben Affleck, It really impressed me.
7.5/10, 1 view
True Lies
Well, yep its on my list. Excellent pick.
9.5/10, 5 views

BarcaRulz
The City of Lost Children
I have not heard of this until now.
N/A
In Bruges
Obviously, I love this film.
9.5/10, 1 view
The Sixth Sense
Bruce Willis at his non action best, and like you said it features a great young actor but also a fine performance by Aussie Toni Collette. Good pick.
7.5/10, 3 views

Geezer
Orange County
Underrated movie, for sure. Colin Hanks actually was a perfect pick for the lead in this and Jack Black again manages to steal the show. Another worthy choice.
7.5/10, 3 views
Kung Pow
HAHA! Just thinking about this movie makes me laugh, it has some laugh out loud scenes that just should have been done years before this appeared. Sometimes it is a little bit tenious but it’s a decent show, and im still waiting for the sequel Odenkirk promised at the end, or was that a joke?
6.5/10, 3 views
The Prestige
Hmm, is this Nolans worst movie? Nah probably not, but after my first viewing, it just degraded in its spectacular-ness. And Nolan just doesn’t make bad movies. Jackman and Bale perform at such a high level that its almost impossible to dislike the movie. But after watching it again and again you start to think about the theme, and say, well its just not possible. But stranger things have happened in film. Not bad.
6.5/10, 3 views

leestu
The Evil Dead
Watched this for the first time recently, and was a little taken aback. Its funny, scary and thrilling all at the same time. Now I know why Sam Riami is so well regarded.
6.5/10, 1 view
Pans Labyrinth
Man, what do I say. It needs another watch from me. It had some genuinely creepy moments and some good acting BUT- I couldn’t figure out why it was liked by critic so much. I did like the creature with the hand-eyes though, that bit got my heart racing.
6/10, 1 view
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Grrr, 4 nights ago I got halfway through this then had to go to sleep so I could get up early the next day for work. Sean Penns character is good but I really like that scalper ticket seller heaps more, he had the suaveness that is needed in such a character. Will get back to ya here.
N/A

W
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
Still a good comedy. Mike Myers made is career with Waynes World and cemented himself with this, a pity he did The Love Guru (which I haven’t seen) but I have faith he will comeback.
7/10, 4 views
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
A pretty funny movie, the lead guy (forgot his name already) is very good, I think he somehow wrote Gone to the Greek, dunno. Good movie but I still dislike that pom in real life.
7.5/10, 2 views
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
About time it showed up, I might place an early bet and say that this will be the number 1 movie collectively in the ultimate countdown. Awesome characters and awesome story. It has grown on me heaps since we all logged our last top 100’s at Fantasy Moguls, where I since have watched this 3 times. Great pick.
10/10, 8 views

[silversurfer19]

MOVIE #67

Shrykespeare: Diggstown (1992) – I noticed this was on tv here a little while ago but the premise just didn't appeal to me. I'm not a fan of Rounders either though so maybe it's just not my type of movie. (N/A)

thegreenarrow: Office Space (1999) - Obviously I'm a big fan. (10/10)

transformers: Friday Night Lights (2004) - Never watched it, and on the surface it looks like something which would never appeal to me, but your comments have swayed me a little. If it's ever on tv (which I doubt), i'll give it a go. (N/A)

englishozzy: No Country for Old Men (2007) - The Coen's seem to have hit a rich streak at the moment, as all their recent movies (bar Burn After Reading which was only average by their standards), have really upped the quality in direction, visuals and structure. This is one of their most impressive movies of the decade, probably only beaten by A Serious Man for me. Despite Bardem's menacing character, Tommy Lee Jones' character provides a vast, slow burning movie which deals with the idea of change beautifully. It looks stunning and the performances all round are top notch. The ending is superb too, on first viewing I was like WTF, but over time I've come to appreciate that this theme is something the Coen's always run with, the idea of the unpredictability and their profound effects. One of the true standouts of this century, and will probably remain a classic for years to come. (9/10)

Ron Burgundy: Monty Python and the Life of Brian (1979) – Probably my favourite Python movie, it's just filled with hilarious scenes and classic characters. I love Spike Milligan's cameo in it, and the scene with the graffiti on the walls always cracks me up! (8.5/10)


Buscemi: Dead/Alive (1992) - Yeah, it's a really fun movie with lots of invention, but it's not quite Jackson's best movie for me. I think Heavenly Creatures just tops it by mixing the surrealism of his earlier works with the sophistication of his later works to perfection. Really love so many scenes in this though and was very close to making my own top 100. (9.5/10)

Chienfantome: Two Lovers (2008) – Yeah, so I mentioned I watched this the other night and you are right, it is a beautifully crafted drama, and certainly not filled with much hope (I was sure he was going to throw himself to the sea at the end)m but it is so well acted, especially by Phoenix, that it's hard not to love the movie despite it's theme. It has a few pacing issues but generally it's a very well made little movie which surprised me. (7/10)

numbersix: Die Hard (1988) - Absolute classic action movie which re-defined how action movies would play out from then on. McClain is an iconic hero and the script is very tight, but the standout in this will always be Alan Rickman as Hans. Absolutely steals every scene he is in. (9/10)

Banks: Gone Baby Gone (2007) - This was a well made movie with good performances and a nice look to it. Wasn't the classic I heard it was hailed to be, but was a solid drama. I agree with six though, Michelle Monaghan's character was totally underused. (6.5/10)

BarcaRulz: In Bruges (2008) - Still a really enjoyable movie with great central performances. (8/10)

Geezer: Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002) - Yeah, really sound like something to avoid, like if humanity depends on it. (N/A)

leestu: Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) – Best fairy tale movie since Edward Scissorhands. Nothing more needs saying, will be hearing much more from me in the future. (10/10)

W: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) - Without doubt your best pick so far. Stunning movie which will also be coming up in my own list. And could quite possibly be the no.1 collectively as Ron pointed out. (10/10)

[Chienfantome]

#66

Shryke - Saw
The first Saw is a good. I'm not sure I would call it intelligent, but it certainly plays with our nerves well. The twist sure was surprising, but a little too much unbelievable. Too bad it spawned a series of unnecessary sequels, of which I have only seen the awful Saw 2.

Surfer - The Big Lebowski
The Coen at their very best. They make some terrific dramas, but their twisted hommage to noir is the cream of what they have offered us in their career. The more seen, the better.

greenarrow - Giant
Surprising third appearance ! Still haven't seen it...

transformers - Hot Rod
I haven't seen it, but if Danny McBride's in it, then it must be worth seing

Ozzy - Vertigo
When we will have finished this huge Top 10 enterprise, I'm sure Hitchcock will end up in the Top 3 directors most cited, and when you see his filmo, it's no surprise. A wonderful film from the master.

Ron B - Zoolander
I don't know if I should consider myself a purist, but I sure love Zoolander. Stiller and Wilson are great, and all the supporting players are hilarious (love the Duchovny appearance).

Buscemi - Boogie Nights
Still haven't seen it since theater, all those years ago, but I still have a great opinion of it.

Six - Strangers on a train
I've only seen this Hitch film once a few years ago, but had I seen it more, I have no doubt it would be featured it my Top.

Banks - Kill Bill Vol. II
Vastly inferior to the first one. I remember I saw it in bad conditions, with talking teens next to me in the theater, but still, it wouldn't have changed the fact it was disappointing after Vol. I, despite Carradine's awesomeness.

Barca - City of Lost Children
I think you will end up with the most French films in your Top, Barca, probably still behind me though You know what ? I haven't seen this film in 15 years, and I highly regret it, as I barely remember beyond the visual universe. I really need to see it again, as a big fan of Jeunet I am.

Geezer - Orange County
I've seen this on DVD a few years ago, and it was okay, but I can't remember much of it.

leestu - The Evil Dead
That's how I love Sam Raimi. I'm glad his off his Spiderman period, and I hope he'll be back with great stuff like the jubilatory "Drag me to Hell" he offered us last year. The Evil Dead is great. I remember seeing it in theater (in a re-release of course^^) and having a blast watching it.

W - Austin Powers
Contrary to Six, I think that Austin Powers began to be interesting with the sequels. The first one is a nice little spoof. The sequels get into the pure comedy territory, and it gets better. In fact, I think each film is better than the one before, with the 3rd Astin Powers being the best of the bunch. The association with Michael Caine is hilarious in the third one.

[Chienfantome]

Chienfantome: Gran Torino (2008) – Hehe, it's good to get a mention in your write up. Hopefully from now on whenever you think of this film you'll think of my disapproving look (just don't picture me as a leprachaun). I guess the difference comes from our regard of Clint. you see him as a "classical" film-maker, but I don't remember the classics being that dull. Clint is a "safe" film-maker, he lacks imagination. Even his best idea (the Iwo Jima films) fall flat on their faces. I think Clint's films are overly simplistic, and often cliched (Million Dollar Baby being the worst). And this certainly fits into that, with its insulting portrayal of a hard-ass war-vet using violence to solve the problems of ethnic minority gangs.
You say it's about family, but Clint doesn't portray his character's bond and integration with the Hmong as much as he portrays what a saviour his character is, making his character a martyr and also patronising his neighbours, who are all portrayed as weak and useless. It isn't a film about a bond with a community, it's about how the old way of life (violence, "toughness") is society's only solution. Clint has finally become Dirty Harry.

I think this will definitely be our most divergent opinion on a filmmaker, ever, Six (hehe). Our views on the director Clint Eastwood is could not be more different, obviously. Dull, lacks imagination, flat, overly simplistic, cliched. These are not adjectives I often use when it comes to Clint, even though some of his films deserve it. And I surely won't employ those words for Gran Torino. Our lecture of the film seems opposite.

[silversurfer19]

MOVIE #66

Shrykespeare: Saw (2004) – I'll admit actually, I did enjoy this movie, well I say 'enjoy' I mean appreciate that some thought did actually go into the idea so that it was more than just a Hostel. But at the same time it spawned the torture-porn genre, so it has that against it. But as a one off it was actually quite a good concept that had me hooked (not literally) till the end, and that twist did come out of the blue. If I watched it a second time I imagine I'd find tons of loopholes as to why that ending wouldn't work, but as a one of viewing it was decent enough. I've avoided all the sequels though, as that idea could only work once and I have no desire to see where it will go from there. (6.5/10)

thegreenarrow: Giant (1956) – Another crossover from our lists. (10/10)

transformers: Hot Rod (2007) - Was actually pleasantly surprised by this. Was expecting a very low brow comedy but it was better than that, and Samberg was pretty funny. Not brilliant, but not awful either. (5/10)

englishozzy: Vertigo (1958) - Certainly one of Hitchcock's and cinema's finest, a thrilling suspense which keeps you guessing till the end, and combined with some brilliant visuals and a great score. (10/10)

Ron Burgundy: Zoolander (2001) - I don't actually know too many 'purists' who don't like this actually. It's at the very least a decent satire and at it's best very funny. (6.5/10)

Buscemi: Boogie Nights (1997) - Not my favourite PTA movie (I think There Will Be Blood has some more interesting themes), but certainly a good movie. Probably a little long from what I remember, but Wahlberg is very good in his break out (and still probably standout) role. (6.5/10)

Chienfantome: Gran Torino (2008) – Argh, the more I read six's criticism's of this movie, the more I start to notice the holes in it myself! At first I remember it being a well acted drama if a little predictable, but now I'm starting to notice all numbers of flaws. As it stands though it's certainly watchable. (6.5/10)

six: Stranges On A Train (1951) - Y'know, I love Hitch and almost everything he touched turned to gold, but this I feel was, along with North By Northwest, one of his more overrated movies. It's great, don't get me wrong, but when I compare them to some of his lesser known and respected movies, I just don't think they hold up as well. You are right though, it's a delightful movie with plenty of suspense and a very tight narrative, and it's great to see a non blonde as his lead in this as you mentioned. (7.5/10)

Banks: Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) - Too much of this just felt like a letdown in comparison to the first. Yeah Carradine is great when he finally turns up, but Madsen was so poor he let the rest down. If this was as good as Vol.1 it would probably be in my top 100 collectively, as it is, it's just a lacklustre second part. (6/10)

BarcaRulz: The City of Lost Children (1995) - I sometimes wonder why Caro doesn't get the credit he deserves, as while Jeunet is a master film maker, Caro's imput must not be neglected. Not my favourite of the pair's movies, but a highly enjoyable one with some great visuals and fascinating characters which really draw you into Jeunet and Caro's world. (7/10)

Geezer: Orange County (2002) - I remember watching it a couple of years ago, and while I remember it being occasionally funny, I can't say I remember too much else from it. Middling at best for me. (5.5/10)

leestu: The Evil Dead (1981) – Brilliant movie, right up my street for horror, Raimi at his very best. (10/10)

W: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997) - Never really got it as much as everyone else seemed to when it was released. Yeah, it had some funny moments, but far too often it felt a little too low brow and reliant on catch phrases rather than a movie as a whole. Would much rather was OSS 117, a much superior Bond spoof. (5/10)

[Chienfantome]

BarcaRulz: The City of Lost Children (1995) - I sometimes wonder why Caro doesn't get the credit he deserves, as while Jeunet is a master film maker, Caro's imput must not be neglected. Not my favourite of the pair's movies, but a highly enjoyable one with some great visuals and fascinating characters which really draw you into Jeunet and Caro's world. (7/10)

I'll tell you why Caro doesn't get as much credit, surfer : because since the two of them went different ways, Jeunet made Amelie, and Un long dimanche de fiancailles, and Micmacs, while Caro made the awful Dante 01...

[silversurfer19]

Ah.. But still, he never seems to get credited for his work on Lost Children or Delicatessen, they are both always regarded as Jeunet movies when without Caro's imput I doubt they would have been half as good. I truly believe that his ability with visuals and storytelling is second to none, maybe he needs Jeunet's directing abilities to aid him, but on those points alone he is quite brilliant. I have heard Jeunet may well team up with Caro again in the near future, so here's hoping...