My Favorite Movies

In my top favorites. Japanese Lynchian nightmare...until the punchline.

One of my favorites.

The most deeply disturbing, haunting and brilliant film of 2009. Proceed with caution; Lars von Trier gives a no holds barred look into a broken psyche, with stunning results. Amazing on all levels.

One of the more disturbing films I've seen.

This incredible (and nonsensical) Japanese 'horror' acid-infused melodramatic psychedelic comedy-drama (among other things) is absolutely one of the best times I've have in a movie theater in ages. Nearly impossible to find, this is one that should be sought out by fans of out there cinema: You will NOT be disappointed.

Perhaps I was just in the right mood at the right time, but this movie fuckin' blew my mind. Granted, this is based on one of my favorite short stories by Clive Barker, the film was directed by Ryuhei 'Versus' Kitamura, and it has Vinnie Jones in it, which helps. I, for one, think this is one of the best book-to-film adaptations of all time, and I urge fans of the genre, especially fans of Clive Barker, to seek out this faithful adaptation. Highly, highly, highly recommended.
Addendum: This is one of the best films of 2008, hands down. I've watched it roughly 10-15 times, and it keeps getting better with each viewing. Tight direction, great script and amazing performances equal one of the best Clive Barker adaptations of all time.

Outstanding historical biopic whose issues ring true even today. For anyone out there with an open heart and open mind that truly believes in human rights, you need to see this film. Being a gay man myself, I knew much of the history behind this. I highly encourage those who know very little about this man's life and work to see this film, as it is as enlightening as it is entertaining while keeping from ever becoming heavy handed. You won't see a better film in 2008: This is tops.

Minimalist masterpiece, one of the best films of the decade.

Brilliant, surreal mosaic from director Harmony Korine. The basic premise involves a Michael Jackson impersonator meeting a Marilyn Monroe impersonator (played with gusto by Diego Luna and Samantha Morton, respectively) in Paris. Monroe then invites Jackson to come to a commune in Scotland where other impersonators live and plan to put on a nightly talent show. There is also a sidebar involving a priest/airplane pilot (Werner Herzog) and a convent of nuns who can jump out of airplanes without parachutes. All that being said, this is truly a Harmony Korine film, and is a showcase of his maturation as a filmmaker. Being that I believe Korine to be one of the best American filmmakers alive today, this is by far one of the best films I have seen in recent years. Definitely the best of 2008.

Wow.

One of the Coen Bros. best to date. A perfect blend of almost unbearable tension and offbeat humor set amongst the backdrop of the southwest. Javier Bardem is ruthless in his role; a chilling portrait of a man without a conscience.

Unlike anything else. A bizarre experience.

A true endurance test from Lynch, but one that I feel pays off.

It has my husband (Nick Frost) in it. Plus, it's a great film!

My hubby Nick Frost in a send up of buddy cop movies. I'm in.

An outstanding and almost otherworldly documentary.

Amazingly insightful look into the mind of a schizophrenic.

An earlier effort from the pretentious and wonderful Peter Greenaway. A good companion piece to Cronenberg's 'Dead Ringers.'

My personal favorite existential comedy.

Darkest of dark teen comedy of the 80s that is as much 'Clueless' as it is 'Blue Velvet.' One of my favorite cult classics.

Say what you will about Showgirls, it's one of the most entertaining films I've ever seen, and I don't mind tellin' ya, I've seen it MANY times. From the god-awful acting to the laughably quotable script, Showgirls proves that no matter how much money you spend on a movie, it can still suck. Nonetheless, there's a special place in my heart for this ugly duckling.

An amazing accomplishment that is very under appreciated.

What can I say? One of my favorites!

One of the best psychological thrillers of the past two decades. A true work of art.

Incredible, evil, gorgeous, indulgent, breathtaking, reprehensible masterpiece.

Solid follow up to the incredible Dogville. Not quite as good, but just barely misses the mark.

Mind-blowing. It's best to go into this one blind. The less you know about it, the better.

Sam Mendes best film, based on the graphic novel by Max Allan Collins. Sublime. Conrad L. Hall's gorgeous cinematography won him a posthumous Oscar.

An amazing achievement, visually lush.

One of my favorites! Word of advice: Avoid the R-Rated cut. It's kind of funny if you've seen the uncut version, but for first time veiwers, seek out the uncut version of this gory, absurdly funny gem.

A true cult classic.

David Lynch doing the Wizard of Oz. Or something like that.

Classic.

Brilliant and disturbing. Hope his American version retains the same qualities this one has (and score, I though the use of John Zorn was great).

To say I love this film is an understatement. Well before it came out, I knew it was something that I would like and longed to see, so as soon as it rolled into town, I was there. Not only has Paul Thomas Anderson well exceeded my expectations, he has proven that he has matured even further as a filmmaker. There isn't a frame out of place in this film, not a performance that isn't spot on. This, my friends, this is epic film making that will stand the test of time.

Heartbreaking and gut wrenching. Good times! From the man who brought us 'Funny Games.'

Tarantino's best work, hands down.

Another thought provoking piece of cinema from one of my favorite director's.

Michael Haneke's slow, creepy and tense thriller.

One of the best of its year.

On par with the Godfather series in terms of mafia films.

Terry Gilliam's masterpiece is one head trip of a movie. For a laugh, check out the 'Love Conquers All' cut and compare to the director's vision.

A wonderfully goofy, fun and interesting experiment from the always welcome Steven Soderbergh. Sure, he's done some less than wonderful films (look no further than the 'Ocean' movies), but this one is him doing everything that he loves about filmmaking and wadding it into an existential ball. A must for fans of cinema willing to do what it wants to do.

Damn near perfect.

My introduction to Jeunet and Caro still makes me smile. Eccentric, whimsical, disturbing and wonderful filmmaking.

I love Hellboy

I love the first film and love this one just as much. Only *slight* problem: the absence of David Hyde Pierce as the voice of Abe Sapien, though after the first few minutes it no longer stood out. So, cats and kittens, if you liked the first Hellboy adventure, quit reading this and go see this movie already!

One of Cronenberg's finest films. His later 'eXistenZ' makes a nice companion piece.

David Cronenberg did the impossible with this one: He filmed a virtually unfilmable novel, and did so expertly. Highly recommended for Cronenberg fans, everyone else, run away.

Great Elmore Leonard adaptation, but not *quite* as great as Jackie Brown. James Gandolfini is hot as 'Bear.'

Another slit-your-wrists classic from Lars von Trier. Definitely a precursor in mood and atmosphere to his musical outing, 'Dancer in the Dark.' Definitely worthwhile if you can deal with one downer of a film.

Early von Trier is much different than his later minimalist works, but is nonetheless riveting, engaging, and perplexing (not to mention funny at times).

A stunning western set in the Australian outback in the 19th century. Visually amazing.

Heartfelt and hilarious, this is one of the best films of 2007, hands down. Each player is solid in their role, and no role is too small in this engaging comedy.

A definite first look into the world of P.T. Anderson: Though not as layered as some of his later efforts, a true gem all its own.

Hello Kitty meets Blade Runner in this cyberpunk clusterfuck. Quite the trip. I loved it.

Subtle sci-fi social commentary brilliance from Nicholas Roeg. David Bowie is perfectly cast in the role of the alien.

What a great spin on the Italian horror/zombie genre!

I give this four stars...for now. I think after another viewing or two, it may be more than that. I think Sir Anthony Hopkins has really created something cerebral and fascinating here, and has probably been one of the few directors to visually capture bipolar disorder on film. Great characters, performances and visuals round out this truly unique cinematic experience. Highly recommended for the more adventurous movie-goer.

One of my all time favorite comedies. Brilliant.

Excellent, excellent, excellent film from David Gordon Green. Great, very natural performances from all involved, and a dream-like quality that allows you to drift through the whole experience. Some brilliant imagery and outstanding cinematography by Tim Orr.

Beautiful rendering of Krystof Kieslowski's final script by 'Run, Lola, Run' director Tom Tykwer. Cate Blanchett is spot on as usual, and Giovanni Ribisi really shows his acting chops in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story of love and revenge.

I would say this is the best film of its year. Absolutely amazing achievement from Alfonso Cuaron, which successfully ran me through a gamut of emotions. Incredible cinematography, incredible performances, incredible score, everything about this film is incredible. See it now.

Probably my favorite Kurosawa film.

One of Hitchcock's best thrillers.

Probably my favorite Hitchcock film. I love the use of long takes.

Outstanding, chilling portrait of a young boy finding his 'family' with a group of skinheads in 1983 England. Excellent blend of cinematic touches amidst the almost documentary feel of the rest of the film. A true gem of a movie.

Combines the best elements of Van Sant (and Larry Clark, for that matter) into a concise, haunting, and exquisite portrait of paranoia and regret. Beautiful cinematography by the always amazing Christopher Doyle, a deliberate soundscape, and the naturalistic acting by non-professionals (that has become commonplace for Van Sant's later work) help round out this powerful film experience. Best film of 2008 (so far).

Lavish look at the glam rock scene of the 1970s.

Amazing film from Michael Powell that, unfortunately, ruined his career. Though dated, this masterpiece of atmosphere still captures your attention from the very first frame and doesn't let go. A perfect blend of satire, thriller and tragedy.

By no means an artistic revelation, this film proved to me that a no-budget cornucopia could be just as entertaining as any Hollywood film could ever be.

Amazing, though by no means easy to watch. Harrowing documentary that equally balances all sides, and is as infuriating as it is fascinating. A must see for anyone with an opinion on the abortion debate.

Argento's masterpiece. Enough said.

An incredible film. Beautiful, brutal, wonderful and unsettling all in perfect balance.

Guillermo del Toro's brilliant ghost story that makes an excellent companion piece to his later 'Pan's Labyrinth.' The sense of wonder and suspense are so masterfully married in this top-notch addition to this great filmmaker's resume. Highly recommended, especially to fans of 'Pan's Labyrinth.' If you liked 'Pan's' and haven't seen this, check this out. You won't be disappointed.

Fascinating Japanese film that I haven't seen in years, but still remember having quite an impact on me. Excellent build of tension in this haunting film.

The theatrical release of both films (Planet Terror, Death Proof) together with the fake previews as a suture (featuring my favorite guy in the whole world, Nick Frost) was my preferred version of this film experiment. As separate entities, they are still fun and effective, but I enjoy this three-plus-hour overload the slightest bit more. A love letter for true genre buffs.

Very funny comedy that is truly a classic. All the leads are spot on, and the script and direction are damn near perfect.

Insightful and important diamond in the rough for animation. As much as I adore Pixar, this should have won for best animated feature of 2007. Highly recommended.

One of the most thought provoking, harrowing, insightful and daring films ever to be produced. Mimi Rogers deserves attention for her amazing and commanding role. Definitely the best film of its year, if not its decade.

Gaspar Noe's film before Irreversible. Disturbing.

This film is brilliant, just shy of the brilliance of 'Happiness.' Though not perfect in its execution, it hits on every point it tries to make and I found myself enjoying and hating this movie at the same time...just the way I like my Todd Solondz films.

Undoubtedly one of the best films of 1998, this jet-black comedy is one of a kind. It's the kind of film that select few will find pleasure in watching, as it is quite dark at times, but the characters are so well written and played with such compassion it's hard not to find yourself...well, caring about these deplorable and pathetic folks. Worth a look if you have a dark sensibility and a twisted sense of humor.

Being that I have been a fan of Joy Division/Warsaw/New Order et al for many years, I went into this film with some pretty high expectations. Thankfully, they were met and exceeded. Wonderful casting makes this gorgeous black and white film feel almost like a fly on the wall documentary. There are also some amazing recreations of a selection of Joy Division's live performances. Not the most uplifting of tales, but certainly worth a watch.

Extremely chilling and well made, this is the documentary that inspired Herzog to go on to make his equally as excellent 'Rescue Dawn.' All of the material featured here is recreated remarkably well in 'Rescue Dawn,' but there is something infinitely more haunting about hearing the stories retold by the one who experienced them. Highly recommended.

What can I say? I finally sat through the one film in my life I had to turn off. I was much younger when I was first exposed to this movie, and didn't understand all of the subtext. Now, for me at least, it's quite the social commentary, though it is excessive in the visual realm (the 'Circle of Shit' sequence still makes my stomach turn). This is certainly not a film I can imagine watching on any sort of regular basis, but it is a contemplative work, and I think those that can see beyond the surface will find more there than meets the eye. In rating this, part of me wanted to give it No Stars, and the other part of me wanted to give it 5. A polarizing cinematic work, to say the very least.

Update: The more I watch this film, the more I realize how horrific, yet important, it really is. It is worthy of the highest rating.

A very creative low-budget vampire tale with excellent (if somewhat hammed up) performances by the entire cast. An always welcome presence of David Lynch just adds to the fun. Also has a great shoegazer/trip-hop soundtrack, for those that like that kind of thing. Highly recommended for the slightly more adventurous viewer (some of this film is shot in Pixelvision for those who remember those cameras).

Being a Ken Russell fan helps tremendously in enjoying this bizarre, steamy character study. Apparently, the European cut is the kinky one (and the one I had the opportunity to see): This is the cut I recommend. Kathleen Turner and Anthony Perkins are both stellar in their performances, though everyone involved is pretty good in their own right. Though flawed and painfully 80s at times, I highly recommend this strange and wonderful film.

Surrealist Spanish spin on the 'Psycho' idea. Fantastic, irreverent, psychotic and fun. Highly recommended to fans of the fucked-up.

Outstanding Park Chan-wook film: parallels 'Lady Vengeance' and surpasses 'Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance.' Nonetheless, this trilogy is stellar, and deserves attention from any true film fan.

This is pure escapist cinema. Beautifully and passionately rendered, I recommend this to anyone with an imagination. I normally hate kids, but I even thought the little girl in this was cute! While I wouldn't say it's perfect, this one is damn close. I highly recommend this truly underrated masterpiece.

Incredibly lush sequel (of sorts) to Wong Kar-Wai's 'In the Mood for Love.' Kind of melds the worlds of 'In the Mood...' with 'Blade Runner' in this futuristic love story, sci-fi epic sort-of thing. Obviously hard to explain, but well worth figuring out.

What can I say? This film really stayed with me after watching it. I believe it was poorly marketed as a 'comedy,' though there are some genuinely funny moments throughout. Still, this is more of a rumination on heaven, hell, purgatory, redemption and absolution than a laugh-out-loud buddy picture. Definitely one of the best films of 2008.

Remarkable, harrowing play adapted for the screen with stellar performances from the entire cast, young and old. Thought provoking, thoroughly absorbing and intense drama is well tempered with some humorous moments and likability of even the most dour of characters. One of the best films of 2008.

Hilarious indictment of cubicle life with standout comic performances by all involved. Worth a few hundred watches.

Fantastic, well played cult classic from William Peter Blatty: part of his 'faith' trilogy (including The Exorcist and Legion). More comedic than the other parts of his series, but poignant, with stellar performances from a game cast.

Fantastic, hilarious stoner-buddy movie that is definitely worth a few viewings. Seth Rogen is hilarious (and adorable) as always, but the one who really shines here is James Franco. Hats off to him for his incredible and laughter inducing performance. Definitely one of the best comedies of 2008.

My most anticipated film of 2008, and it did not disappoint. Though the script is lacking, the stellar performances and pitch perfect direction make up for this setback in spades. Mickey Rourke is at the top of his game in this gritty, sad, sometimes even funny portrait of a man fallen from glory. Definitely one of the best of 2008.

Most criticize me for the fact that this is the one film that teared me up upon initial viewing, but I say it is such an emotional film that you would be hard pressed not to see the very human story behind the latex of this extremely compelling remake.

Haunting, darkly comic character driven piece that certainly has a staying effect. While by no means a 'horror comedy' by any stretch, this very realistic portrait of some severely disillusioned people has an almost hypnotic effect on the viewer. Having just revisited this film, I definitely believe it to be one of the best films out there of its kind.

Absolutely the best documentary regarding the Holocaust ever made (and it clocks in at just under 30 minutes!) This is important filmmaking worth a study or two.

Absolutely brilliant, if not maddening and mind boggling, entry into the Charlie Kaufman cannon. If you have a taste for his skewed sensibility, do yourself a favor and see this film multiple times. A modern masterpiece.

Lactation has never been so riveting.

A pretty true-to-life mafia film, without much in way of artifice or melodrama. Impressive cast, cinematography and direction make for an excellent, if not a bit hard-hitting, film experience. An interesting companion piece to 'City of God.'

Just when you think Pixar can't outdo themselves...they do. The best film to come out of Pixar studios to date, and in gorgeous 3D. There is no reason anyone should not see this movie. Definitely the best of 2009 thus far.

Despite its biblical allegory overtones, this snail-paced-yet-fascinating science fiction tale is one that should be viewed by anyone and everyone who claims to be a film aficionado. Definitely a film that requires more than one viewing due to the abundance of dense dialogue throughout.

One of the funniest damn movies I have seen in a LOOOOONG time. Sure, it's nothing revolutionary, but the performances are solid, the script is both smart and low brow, and the overall impact is just right. I haven't laughed this consistently at a film in quite some time. Highly recommended.

Delightfully bizarre, twisted, hilarious and disturbing, all in the same scene sometimes. This Japanese mish-mash of random ideas that kind of come together is only for fans of the more avant garde side of Japanese cinema. Also, the film is a lenghty one, but if you can endure its 150 minutes of head-scratchingly strange goings on, I think you'll find its worthwhile.

Absolutely brilliant film that was quite a shift in tone for Peter Jackson, after such films as 'Bad Taste,' 'Meet the Feebles,' and 'Braindead.' Here, he captures the intense relationship of two school girls (exquisitely played by newcomers-at-the-time Kate Winslet and Melanie Lynskey) from their meeting through the harrowing event that separates them forever. See this in the 109 min. Uncut version: a very different film from the 99 min. US cut.

Alan Ball hits a home run with this incredibly uncomfortable yet amazingly pointed film revolving around race relations and coming-of-age sexuality. Unflinching in its portrayal of a toxic suburbia circa the Gulf War, this superb character study is definitely proof that Alan Ball can direct as well as he adapts the compelling novel. One of the best of 2007.

Fantastic and brutal sophomore effort for Scott Reynolds.

One of the absolute finest films of the 1990s. Forest Whitaker, Stephen Rea, Miranda Richardson and the exquisite performance by newcomer Jaye Davidson buoy this intriguing political thriller. Never mind the big 'twist,' this is just grade A filmmaking through and through.

A nearly perfect horror film as only Polanski could deliver. Ruth Gordon is a standout.

Absolutely amazing film done in a documentary/narrative crossover style that touches on several social issues, from poverty to racism to governmental control. Never dull, intense and ultimately satisfying as a damn near perfect alien film. Peter Jackson produced with longtime collaborator Phillipa Boyens, among others. Definitely one of the best films of 2009.

For all of its technical achievements and advancements in narrative structure for mainstream cinema, I can absolutely see why this film is revered as the greatest American film ever made. That being said, I wouldn't necessarily agree on a purely entertainment level, but it is definitely one of my favorites.

While this Welles picture didn't have quite the historical impact of Citizen Kane, for my dollar it's just as entertaining. I still marvel at the technical prowess displayed in that opening sequence.

When you hear the saying 'They don't make them like they used to,' it does NOT apply to this straight up Satanic cult horror film. No comedy, no excessive gore or nudity, just atmosphere and tension until it culminates in the climax. A must for horror fans who think the aforementioned statement is true.

The Coen Bros. hit uncomfortable comedic gold yet again with this fantastic tale of a man whose life systematically falls apart. I found that what little I knew about this film going in helped me enjoy it far more than expected. An absolute must for Coen Bros. fans! Deservedly nominated for best picture of 2009.

Wow. I never thought in my lifetime I would give such a high rating to a film directed by Ron Howard, but I'll be goddamned if he didn't hit a home run with this thoroughly entertaining, riveting and well constructed drama centering around the David Frost interviews of Richard M. Nixon. Michael Sheen and (especially) Frank Langella nail their characters with a supporting cast equal in its excellence. Especially for those of you who, like me, never thought Ron Howard could make a film worth their attention, I urge you to give Frost/Nixon a try. Highly recommended.

It took me a while to even come to the conclusion that I wanted to see this. Conceptually, it seemed SO far beyond the reaches of what is interesting in horror vs. what is just profane to be profane, and I will say this movie skirts that line. However, there is a certain sublime wonder to the film, mainly due to the fact that it created a complex character in Dr. Heiter. Now, whether this happens because of the spot on performance by Dieter Laser, or it was the true intention of Tom Six, the writer/director, or both, or something else entirely, this film has its merits. My recommendation to anyone considering seeing it is this: watch it in a group. You can all sit there and look at each other and wonder why you are watching this film and, moreover, why you are enjoying it.

A milestone in cinematic comedy.

Absolutely seamless film that, on the surface, is a poignant family drama with as many funny elements as sad, but at the core is an examination of the world around and what different things mean and how they effect our daily lives. Definitely a rewarding film-watching experience. Highly recommended.