My Favorite Movies


  1. ranthonysteele
  2. R. Anthony

Limited to a top twenty, because I can never settle for just ten.

  ranthonysteele's Rating My Rating
1
Avatar 2009,  PG-13)
Avatar
I don't even know what to say about this film. So many people have gushed about it now, it's really pointless to say anything, other than to observe that all other 3d films will now be measured by this one. As with every other Cameron film, this film is a mold breaker.
2
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World 2003,  PG-13)
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
Any film with a square-rigged sailing ship in it will be a film I'm willing to see. However, this is the only film about ships that made me believe I was on board. Without a doubt the best film about the age of sail that I've ever seen.
3
Fight Club 1999,  R)
Fight Club
Mischief. Mayhem. Soap. What else is there to say about this film (without unintentionally revealing spoilers, that is) except that it's not really about street fighting. So if you didn't go see because you thought a film about street fighting was lame (like I did for several years) then rest assured, you can safely watch this film. As long as you have a wicked sense of humor, that is.
4
The Abyss 1989,  PG-13)
The Abyss
Don't bother watching any other version of this film except the director's cut.

In my opinion this is James Cameron's finest work. Titanic is a mere pretender in comparison.
5
The Matrix 1999,  R)
The Matrix
The most emulated film in history. There's nothing I can say that compares to that level of flattery.
6
Grosse Pointe Blank 1997,  R)
Grosse Pointe Blank
John Cusak at his best. Yes, Being John Malkovich is a great film. This is a fun film.
7
V for Vendetta 2006,  R)
V for Vendetta
There is a real temptation to draw too close a parallel to current events when watching this film. If you really want to enjoy it, I suggest that you take a word of advice from the film: "Artists use lies to tell the truth; Politicians use lies to cover it up" Just watch the film. Save the "what does it all mean" questions for after the credits roll. more
8
Blade Runner 1982,  R)
Blade Runner
It's hard to imagine a better SF film than this one. I just picked up the 4 disc final cut and rewatched it for the umpteenth time. It's just as good and engaging today as it was 20 years ago. There aren't many films with that kind of staying power.
9
Alien 1979,  R)
Alien
Alien goes on the essential scifi list because it's the first 'crossover' film (not counting the monster movies of the 50's) It's both scifi and horror. It's also one of the best films from director Ridley Scott.
10
Aliens 1986,  R)
Aliens
Aliens is the best movie sequel I've ever watched; so good that it rivals the original in imagination. The fact that it's directed by James Cameron just adds icing to the cake.
11
Daybreakers 2009,  R)
Daybreakers
While this is a film featuring vampires, and the lore is spot-on; it is not, strictly speaking, a 'vampire film'. If it was, I wouldn't have liked it. Like most Ethan Hawke films, there's more to this film than is visible on screen. On screen it's a very good action adventure which I enjoyed thoroughly. Pay attention to the opening credits, or you'll be left fumbling in the dark.
12
Serenity 2005,  PG-13)
Serenity
Encapsulating and concluding the main story line for the aborted Fox Television show Firefly; Serenity delivers for newbies and hard core fans alike, exposing a larger audience to the genius that is Joss Whedon. more
13
Joe Versus the Volcano 1990,  PG)
Joe Versus the Volcano
Starting with "Once upon a time..." the fairytale nature of the film should be taken to heart; nothing is as it seems.
14
Planet of the Apes 1968,  G)
Planet of the Apes
Not just the original, the one and only.
15
Galaxy Quest 1999,  PG)
Galaxy Quest
This film features characters that I swear I've met at SF conventions in the past. The most fun you can have watching other people make fun of things you love.
16
Dr. Strangelove Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb 1964,  PG)
Dr. Strangelove Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
Watch this film, and you'll suddenly realize what other filmmakers have been paying tribute to.
17
Full Metal Jacket 1987,  R)
18
The Great Escape 1963,  Unrated)
The Great Escape
Again, the inspiration for a host of other films, Chicken Run being the latest.
19
Silverado 1985,  PG-13)
Silverado
Pure escapist western, in the classic style.
20
Forbidden Planet 1956,  G)
Forbidden Planet
The inspiration for 9/10's of the SF you see today.

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