My Favorite Movies

Many movie lovers have that one film that first told them and continues to remind them why they wanted cinema to be a permanent part of their life. 'Jurassic Park' is mine. I can watch (and have watched) this movie over and over and over again. No director blends wonder, humanity, and mayhem as harmoniously as Spielberg. The special effects have held up pretty damn well; the sight of the rain-drenched T-Rex emerging for the first time remains unmatched. It's just...awesome. 'Jurassic Park' is ceaseless cinematic eye-candy, imagination, and adventure that doesn't forget its funny, intelligent characters. It doesn't get any more magical, exhilarating, or simply better than this.

So captivating, so original, so well-acted, with such bracingly intelligent dialogue. A violent good time.

Dated, but an absolute classic. One of the best movies ever made.

Who knew dismemberment could be this much fun?

It's criminal how overlooked this animated gem is (probably because it's not a Disney product). 'The Iron Giant' offers more depth than any film Disney puts out these days. The movie is essentially a commentary on 1950s American xenophobia. I already miss 2D animation dearly. It's that personal touch about handcrafted animation that makes it so much more appealing and heart-warming than generic 3D animation.'The Lion King' is my favorite Disney movie, yet 'Iron Giant' touches me in a way 'Lion King' can't.

Modern crime-noir done by Steven Spielberg? I'm there.

People sure do love to hate this movie, but I'll be goddamned if that ship sinking isn't still the most harrowingly epic thing I've ever seen on film. Serve that as the backdrop for such a classical love story and you've got one of my absolute favorite movies.

Oh, Cary Grant. The ceaselessly energetic man had me literally laughing out loud in what I think is his funniest performance. Early on, the movie borders on dementia and never lets up. This isn't a subtle study of realistic family dynamics; it's a showcase featuring the zany exploits of the bizarre Brewster family. Like many adaptions from that time, this one takes place in very few locations (in fact most of it takes place in one room), however unlike most, this one has a undying energy that lasts through the final minute. 'Arsenic and Old Lace' is one surefire comedy that has stood the test of time.

Offers something new everytime you watch it. Phenomenal ensemble cast lead by Brando and Pacino.

My favorite superhero movie without a doubt.

Conceptually and visually impressive enough to more than make up for wooden acting and dialogue.

One of my favorite movies ever is a romantic-comedy, no less - Who knew? Hepburn and Peck, despite a 14 year age difference, are radiant together. Beautiful, touching story with flawless, engaging performances.

A movie like no other. A cast sparkling with charisma and a story that can only be told once. The movie brims over with sophisticated humor and social commentary on gender roles in America. Worked just the right balance between heartfelt comedy and tear-jerking drama.

Disney's greatest film. I have yet to meet someone who doesn't love it.

Brando's superstar-making performance changed acting history. Really, it did.

The screenplay's loaded with a certain energy that never failed to hold my attention. I've haven't been this hooked during a movie in a long time. Too many characters die in the conclusion, particularly one that had gone through too much to die so uneventfully. It'd probably be a bit much to call 'The Departed' a flat-out masterpiece, but it's more than appropriate to call it a masterfully entertaining time.

A dark existential comedy that's engaging because it's so human. Two lonely people, extremely dissatisfied and bored with their lives, find each other and love ensues. Jennifer Aniston finally convinced me she can act and act well with this film and Jake Gyllenhaal is, you know - just beautiful. A little movie that goes a long way.