Gabriel Lewis

I just saw this movie last night and despite negative reviews, it’s a pretty funny movie. I laughed at almost every gag. Also, the guys that played the stooges were fantastic. Will Sasso as Curly, in particular. I’ve always been a fan of him on Mad TV, so I was pretty excited when it turned out he was going to be Curly. And he was pretty good. I think the funniest part in the whole movie was Larry David as a nun! Larry David is Jewish, first of all, and most important, HE’S A MAN! So, it was pretty hysterical that he was a nun. And to add to the awesomeness, Sofia Vergara! She is HOT!!!! So, yeah. Sure it’s silly and stupid, but it’s the Three Stooges, so of course. I’d have to say it would get an 8/10. Certainly!

Since I just finished watching it, I would like to make my top 10 list of my favorite characters in the Wire. So, without further ado, here they are.

10. Scott Templeton

Not that he’s a good person (he’s actually the complete opposite), he’s just a really interesting character. He first comes off as an ambitious reporter who, in order to get attention, makes up stories. But, he does this so much, it becomes a compulsive thing and by the end, he comes as mentally ill. That’s why I love his development. Not much to say, only more of a psychological character than other ones. So, yeah. Moving on.

9. Howard “Bunny” Colvin

In my opinion, there are only 3 characters in season 3 that fully develop. Carver, Cutty, and Bunny. Out of all of them, Bunny’s my favorite. He starts out a really tough cop. While he’s incredibly interesting here, this is his least interesting stage. Then, for the briefest time (like 2 episodes), he works at a casino. But, his hard cop antics cause him to get fired, again. Then, he starts working with delinquent kids at a urban school. This is where he learns to be mild mannered and shy, which is a contrast to him beating the crap out of a casino customer a couple of episodes earlier. Then, even MORE happens! He adopts Namond, after he runs away from home because of his abusive mother. He turns Namond into a highly educated student, in contrast to his delinquent behavior at the school. Those are more than enough reasons to include him on the list. Nuff said.

8. Kima Greggs 

 This counts for mostly seasons 1, 2, and 5. Kima is one of those characters that doesn’t change that much, she’s just a fun character. The best part about her is she isn’t a damsel in distress type. She’s tough and aggressive. Also she’s lesbian, which adds a really interesting and awkward twist. Anyway, not much to say, only she’s the Dirty Harry of women.

7. Bubbles

Bubbles is one twisty character. In season 1, he’s the comic relief character. You think he’s gonna die right off the bat. But, in seasons 2 and 3, he becomes the addict with a friend/apprentice and a shopping cart full of worthless sh*t. While this is the Bubbles we know and love, his persona in these two seasons seems unnecessary and forced. But, when Johnny weeks (his buddy) dies, he has new beginnings with a kid named Sherrod in Season 4. This is where things get interesting. Bubbles wants Sherrod to learn more and become more mature, but fails when Sherrod skips school and dives deeper into drugs. At the same time, Bubbles is getting his ass kicked by a “customer.” So, he gets a poisonous drug ready. But, Sherrod takes it and dies.

In Season 5, Bubbles has been clean for more than a year, but still has a bad reputation as being a junkie. Plus, he still feels guilt for being responsible for Sherrod’s death. This, in my opinion, is my favorite personality of Bubbles. He’s a very interesting character here. And at the end, he finally gets excepted into society, when he gets to eat dinner with his sister. It’s a touching story arch. While the Season 2/3 Bubbles can be annoying, it’s needed for Seasons 4 and 5. So, Bubbles is a great character. Nuff said.

6. William “Bunk” Moreland

He’s on the list. You happy now, bitch? Bunk is a funny character for the first 4 seasons. But, in season 5, when McNulty makes up the serial killer, Bunk becomes the straight man and honest cop because he believes in truth and justice. While my favorite Bunk is the season 1 Bunk, Bunk in season 5 proves he’s more than comic relief. He’s a good and honest cop. It just proves at least one thing, David Simon = Best TV writer ever!!!

5. Roland “Prez” Pryzbylewski

Prez in season 1 is the weirdest character on the show. But that’s not the end of it. He’s also selfish, brutish, sick, and even a little racist! But, in season 2, he becomes a very likeable character. He’s assigned to the Frank Sobotka case and is essentially a rookie on the team. But the moment when I think everybody earned respect for him was when he punched Valchek in the face. That made me think he was awesome! Then he had some hard times (he accidentally killed a cop, got arrested). But, when he became a teacher he earned back the respect. He’s definitely an up-down character. But, that’s why he’s great. He’s realistic. Add a great actor to play him (Jim True Frost) and you have an awesome character.

4. Jimmy McNulty

You know I had to include the main character on the list. McNulty is the best in Season 2. He has the most boring job in the world. But, knowing McNulty, he has to wander in the major crimes unit. And he becomes a major detective on the case. Classic McNulty. He also becomes the most interesting character in season 5, but also the biggest douchebag. But he’s a badass. It’s a shame he wasn’t in season 4. Well, anyway, McNulty is one of the greatest protagonists in the history of not only cinema, but in writing in general. That’s how awesome he is.

3. Lester Freamon

Lester is the wise man of the series. He’s a veteran and he always has the best quotes of the series. One of my favorites is, “All the pieces matter.” That’s a great quote. But, Freamon is also very enthusiastic about police work, which leads to his flaws. He decides to work on the fake serial killer with McNulty, which turns out to lead to nothing. But, Lester did it simply for the fun. I think his best moment is when he sets up the Frank Sobotka case in season 2. He’s great at making those tack boards. Anyway, a great wise man who has many flaws.  A great character in the least. That’s Lester!

2. Russell “Stringer” Bell

Stringer Bell is a great character. He’s a cold-blooded gangster, but he thinks like a businessman. He kills people, but he has manners. Plus, without him, the Barksdale organization would collapse. That actually happened when Stringer died at the end of season 3.  There are a lot of great Stringer moments, but one I can’t forget is the first time you see him in the courtroom in the pilot episode. He sees McNulty and draws a black Superman flipping McNulty off saying, “F*ck You, Detective!” That has to be, hands down, Stringer’s best moment. Stringer is the one cold-blooded bastard we all know and love.

1. Omar Little

You had to see this coming! He’s EVERYBODY’s favorite! And there’s a reason for that. Omar robs drug dealers and kills people left and right, but he only does this to people in “The Game.” So, you don’t feel bad for liking him. I also think he has the best death scene. Instead of a cop or criminal killing him on the run, he gets shot in a grocery store by a 10 year old kid! But, that’s the point of the Wire. It proves that our perception of tough is stupid because the most badass character on the show is killed by a kid. Also, Omar has the best quote. He’s testifying against the Barksdale organization. He’s asked his occupation. He casually replies, “I rip and run.” BADASS!!!!! Omar is a great character and should be respected. If you don’t respect him, you know what happens. Two words, OMAR COMIN!!!!

This is actually gonna be different than my previous polls. I’m gonna analyze both films, and then have my opinion at the end. So, here goes.

First up is our hero, Batman. Now, this is kind of hard to say, because in Batman, he’s not in the movie a lot and in Dark Knight, he’s in almost every scene. I mean Bale has a LOT to do. He has all of the complicated and simple aspects and details of Bruce Wayne AND Batman! Holy sh*t! That’s a lot! With Michael Keaton, he barely does anything. But, we’re not judging Bruce Wayne, we’re judging Batman. Who’s a better caped crusader? Keaton. It’s easy. He’s subtle, mysterious, quick, intelligent, looks, and sounds tough. Bale looks tough, but he doesn’t have that charm that Keaton has. He sounds like he ate razor blades. I don’t think you’re supposed to sound like that, playing Batman. But, I like Bale’s costume more. It’s more intimidating in all black. Keaton’s is childish and in a way, campy. But, point goes to Batman.

Now, let’s get to our villain, the Joker. At first, when I heard rumors about Heath Ledger, I though he was gonna be Batman. When I heard he was Joker, I laughed. Then he died, and I felt sorry. But it didn’t help my opinion about his Joker. Jack Nicholson was hilarious in the original Batman, so I was pretty sure he was gonna be terrible. But I was wrong. Heath Ledger was scary as sh*t! I’m sorry to say this, but Jack ain’t got nothin’ on Ledger. Ledger’s a psychotic, terrorist, sadistic freak. But he’s intelligent. Jack is a funny and somewhat intimidating guy, but he’s not that interesting of a character. The fact that he was a big time mobster in Gotham makes me feel like he could’ve been more scary, kind of like the Godfather or something. But, he was just funny. The only scary thing was at the end his dead body on the pavement scared the hell out of me! Jesus! Anyway, point goes to Dark Knight.

So, now we should be moving on to our woman. Vicki Vale and Rachel Dawes. Kim Basinger plays Vale in the original, and, in the beginning she’s actually not that bad. She’s witty, quick, charming, sarcastic, smart and pretty. But when the Joker comes, she speaks in screams, and quickly becomes a damsel in distress. At the end I WANTED the Joker to throw her out of the tower, she was so damn annoying! With Gyllenhaal, she’s a three dimensional character. She’s a woman of the modern age, not of the 50′s, like Basinger. She is strong, principled, independent, charming, intelligent, and pretty. The only problem is she sometimes takes that modern age woman so far, it sounds like she’s whining. It can get pretty annoying. But, if I have to choose, I’d choose Dark Knight.

Now, let’s get to the action. Which movie has the better kick ass action! Batman has traditional comic book action. It’s done with class and is very entertaining. But when you compare it with the Dark Knight, it just got killed. I’m sorry, but the Dark Knight’s action has hospitals exploding, trucks falling over, and the Bat-motorcycle thing. It’s just better. Nuff said.

Let’s get to our final battle, plot. Which has a better story. Let’s analyze Batman. Batman is mainly about the Joker, while Dark Knight is all about Batman. It’s kinda like comparing apples to oranges. While I love the atmospheric dependence in Batman, it doesn’t exactly hold the entire film up. This is why I will go with Dark Knight. It’s dark, complicated, action-packed, and is filled with better writing and character development. And even though it’s a sequel, it feels like an entirely different film from Batman Begins. The acting is better and nothing is too over the top. With Batman, it’s dark, but it’s written and shot like a comic book. I can understand why comic book nerds would like that, but movie fans would find it stupid. Not that it is. Batman is a very complex, dark, movie and it’s one of the best comic book movies ever. But, it ain’t got nothin’ on Dark Knight. Anyway, that’s my opinion and I’m sticking to it. Dark Knight=8/10, Batman=7/10.

Here’s the big ones. The one’s that I think are the best. So, here goes.

10. The Godfather

This movie is amazing. It has to be the greatest movie of all time. It’s my 10th favorite, but it has to be the greatest movie of all time. The music, the acting, the cinematography, it’s all so well done! I’d especially like to praise Al Pacino, James Caan, and , of course, Brando. Marlon Brando is so great as Vito Corleone. I love the emotions in all the characters and how they change, like real life. It’s awesome. This movie has gotten a lot of praise, so I won’t go on, but it’s a great movie.

9. Spirited Away

This is such a great animated film. Nothing can come close to this masterpiece. Not even Lion King or Fantasia. Hayao Miyazaki really made his masterpiece when he made this film. The visuals are so interesting and it’s hard to do, with such a simple plot. I also love how nobody is the villain. Everybody has an even balance of good and evil. Even Chihiro. If you haven’t, definitely give Spirited Away a watch. It’s an interesting and creative movie. You really get Spirited Away.

8. Amadeus

This is such an artsy movie, but it’s not a pretentious artsy movie like Across the Universe. It actually relies on plot and characters, not just set pieces and costumes. The acting in this film is superb. F. Murray Abraham was awesome as Salieri. Not many actors could do what Abraham did. Tom Hulce is also great as Mozart, himself. I love their constant feud. It’s so fun to watch. This movie is nearly perfect, for lack of a better word. It is the definition of beauty and visually stunning. It’s Amadeus.

7. Goodfellas

This is my favorite, if not the best Scorsese movie, ever. It’s a well done gangster epic about the evolution of a wanna be gangster’s friendship with the mob. It’s played out so well that it’s highly realistic, yet highly stylized. Every scene has a meaning and every scene has a point. Joe Pesci, Robert DeNiro, and Ray Liotta make a great trio of mobsters. When something bad happens to them, you really feel their pain, even though they’re criminals. Scorsese is a master of cinema and this film proved him to be.

6. A Clockwork Orange

I love this movie because of the satire. It’s such a comment on choice and morality. Malcolm McDowell is fantastically disturbing as Alex. He should’ve won the oscar! Kubrick directs this in a surreal way, so you don’t know what to think of it all. But that’s Kubrick for you. This movie is sick and depraved, but that really the environment it wants to create, so it succeeds. the best part is the scene where Alex beats up his gang. It’s well done and edited nicely in slow mo. This is a film that is usually taken as a stupid painful movie, but it isn’t. It goes up with Dr. Strangelove to be one of the greatest satires. Ever.

Now, the top 5.

5. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

This is the best edited, best filmed, best epic western I’ve ever seen. It’s such a good story! Every character is badass in their own way. Clint is badass, because he is. Lee Van Cleef is becuase he beats the crap out of the Ugly, and Eli Wallach is because he killed a bounty hunter and nearly killed Clint! Ennio Morricone did such a great job with the music, this soundtrack alone makes him my favorite movie composer. The GBU theme is a very popular song in popular song in pop culture and is often parodied in other movies. The music, the story, it’s all good in this epic western by Sergio Leone.

4. Pulp Fiction

No matter what, this movie will always be in my top 10. No matter what. Samuel L. Jackson was great as Jules Winnfield and his character has been parodied numerous times. My favorite parody is the hockey coach. But that’s another post. The way this movie is written is awesome. The royale with cheese and Marvin scene are great. I love them both. Not much to say, only a fun movie to watch.

3. Fight Club

Another 90′s cult classic, Fight Club steered you in one direction and totally turned you around when the twist came. Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter give great performances in this movie. Especially Edward Norton. He should’ve won the oscar (and this movie should’ve won, too)! I love the satire on big companies in the beginning. But, when you meet Tyler, Things totally change. Then, when the twist comes, things change, again. It’s like a roller coaster. It’s a great movie and everyone should see it.

2. Snatch

Is it possible? There’s a movie better than Snatch? Yes, there is. I saw it right after I updated my top 10 favorite movies. But, this gets the silver medal, so it’s all good. My favorite part is the writing. Not only the hilarious, snappy dialogue, but the creative characters Brick Top, Cousin Avi, Franky Four Fingers, and my personal favorite, Bricktop. Bricktop is one evil bastard! But, he’s hilarious! I think, personally, Alan Ford should’ve won the oscar for his portrayal of Bricktop. I love it! Add a great soundtrack and fast paced editing, and you get an awesome  British gangster flick!

1. Paths of Glory

This is not only my favorite movie, favorite Kubrick movie, favorite underrated movie, and favorite war movie, i think it’s the greatest movie. the Godfather and Amadeus come close, but this is fantastic. It tells you the brutality of war, without really showing the brutality of war. Now, THAT’S hard to do! You do see some war scenes (best war scenes ever!), but it’s primarily a courtroom drama. I think Kirk Douglas should’ve won an oscar for his performance in the courtroom scene. It’s a great monologue. This is the best, 10/10.

Go check out the courtroom scene, Paths of Glory Courtroom monologue.

Leave your top 10 in the comments!

20. Full Metal Jacket

This is one of those films that really deserves an analyzation. Every frame, camera angle, or any word of dialogue all have a deeper meaning than what they really are. This was Kubrick’s second to last movie and is one of his best. It offers great acting by Matthew Modine, Vincent D’Onofrio, Adam Baldwin, and my favorite, R. Lee Ermey as the legendary Sgt. Hartman. Hartman is so iconic, he has been used as the drill sergeant stereotype for the last 25 years. He was even used in a Geico commercial! But, the acting and Sgt. Hartman aren’t the only great things about the film. The sniper scene at the end is so horrific, especially when you find out who it is. It’s f*cking scary! Anyway, this film is very deep and disturbing, but a classic, none the less.

19. The Departed 

This was the first gangster film by Scorsese in 11 years, but it wasn’t his usual take. It looked at both ends of the spectrum and told it like it is–nobody’s the good guy. Also, may I recognize this film for having one of the best DiCaprio performances ever. It’s comes at 3rd behind The Aviator and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?. But, my favorite guy is Mark Wahlberg. I know I’ve said this several times, so I won’t cover the same topics but Wahlberg is not only funny, but changes in the film. He changes from a smartass jerk to a legit, serious cop. More than just the funny guy. Jack nicholson and Matt damon are cool, too. But, the Scorsese-ness is the highlight. The brutal violence and awesome soundtrack is also a big part. Anyway, if you haven’t already, watch this movie or Jack Nicholson will break your arm after it’s already been broken.

18. The Matrix

The Matrix is a perfect example of special effects not dominating plot. I mean, it really is a thought-provoking plot about our universe being a computer program. It’s really interesting if you think about it. I hate Keanu Reeves as much as the next guy, but I would be lying if I said he didn’t look badass in the lobby scene. The other actors that were awesome were Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith and Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus. Both were really cool and portrayed their side well. Morpheus was your typical wiseman and Agent Smith was your typical Terminator. Now, the best part, the special effects! I love the effects. These were 90′s computer effects, so they looked super real, as did Terminator 2 and Jurassic Park. Seriously, this was released 13 years ago, and the special effects are way better than any Transformers or Spiderman movie. So, yeah. This movie’s awesome. No disputing. It just is.

17. Reservoir Dogs

I’ve decided I like this better than Inglourious Basterds because this has a better plot, characters, writing, and acting. The best part of it for me is the tension between all the criminals until it builds to a Mexican standoff. The acting is also phenomenal by Tim Roth, Harvey Keitel, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen as Mr. Blonde. Mr. Blonde is a psycho who acts cool, but, when nobody’s around, he goes crazy and cuts a guy’s ear off. But, you don’t see it. You have your imagination. You also don’t ever see the heist. It’s really well done. Anyway, the violence can get pretty brutal, but overall it’s a well done heist movie.

16. Shawshank Redemption

This was a great film from a great year in film, 1994. Ed Wood, Forrest Gump, Pulp Fiction, Quiz Show, Clerks, True Lies, and this movie were all released in 1994. But, this is one of the greatest movies of all year and of all time. It’s rated the best movie ever by IMDB. So, I love it, too. The best part is the gritty and hopeful way it’s told. It’s really dark, but it has an overall good feeling. The acting is also great by Tim Robbins, Bob Gunton, James Whitmore, and MORGAN F*CKING FREEMAN!!! You thought he had awesome voice over in March of the Penguins, this totally kills that with the awesome voice over in this! Morgan Freeman Narration=Like a Boss.

15. The Wild Bunch

This is on of the most epic westerns of all time. It explores the dark, dirty, and violent side of the west with a lot of high class elegance. Seriously, this movie includes classic actors like William Holden and Ernest Borgnine. But, everybody knows the best part of the movie is the shootouts. Especially, the last shootout. They are so epic! The last one is my second favorite shootout (my favorite will be revealed later in the post). But, the plot and characters are also very interesting, too. I have to say, this really is Peckinpah’s masterpiece.

14. The Big Lebowski

Ghostbusters may be one of the most quotable movies of all time, this IS the most quotable movie of all time. So many good lines, there’s too many to count! I think my favorite is, “Nobody f*cks with the Jesus.” That one makes me roll on the floor laughing. Also, the car beating scene. Jeff Bridges and John Goodman are the perfect duo/combo. John Turturro and Julianne Moore are also great supporting characters. I also love how all this complicated stuff evolves somebody pees on the Dude’s rug. It’s well done and written. The Dude abides!

13. Hard Boiled

This is the movie with my FAVORITE shootout. The hospital shootout is awesome! It literally lasts for more than an hour! That’s hardcore. Also, Chow-Yun Fat is great as Tequila Yen. He captures the dramatic and funny side of being a cop at the same time. But, besides the shootouts, the best part is the sub-plot with the mole. He has to choose a side. It kinda reminds me of the Departed in the sense that he’s a mole who has to choose a side, the good or bad. It adds more drama and is the main force that turns this into more than just a mindless action flick. This is a foreign film, but it’s not weird like Fellini, it’s pretty Americanized. So, for those close-minded film fans, this is pretty good for you. Just sayin.’

12. Once Upon a Time in the West

This moved from the 40′s, to the runners up for the top 10. Pretty impressive. How did this happen? Well, I realized, that this is a sophisticated western with more than shooting. It deals with regular, domestic life. But, the beautiful cinematography to the graceful Ennio Morricone music. It’s fantastic. Henry Fonda is great as the villain, Frank. It’s hard to believe an innocent actor like Henry Fonda can play such a sadist. But the badass in the movie is Charles Bronson. When you hear that harmonica, you know you’re in for some good action. Claudia Cardinale is hot, and Jason Robards is funny, so it adds up to be a pretty awesome flick.

11. Fargo

This is a comedy, mystery, drama, thriller, and independent film at the same time! The Coens wrote a brilliant film with brilliant characters that would later be played by brilliant actors. This is Fargo. I’m still not sure why this didn’t win Best Picture. I love Frances McDormand, William H. Macy and Steve Buscemi. Also, the psycho criminal is scary. The over the top violence adds to the hilarity in this movie. The wood chipper made me laugh. Not because of the blood, but the amount of blood. So, don’t worry. I’m not a psychotic freak.

Next up is the top 10!

30. Ghostbusters

This is one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen. Sure, it’s a kids movie, but Bill Murray makes a lot of adult jokes. I bet if the the PG-13 rating was around then, it would’ve been rated that. But, it was rated PG. This movie also has one of cinema’s biggest *ssholes–Pencil Neck. I’ve always hated Pencil Neck. He’s such a d*ck, it sets Egon off! This also is one of the most well written movies. I could make a top 10 list of Ghostbusters quotes. A few of my favorite are, “I’m gonna go to Ms. Barrett’s apartment and check her out,” “He slimed me,” and my personal favorite, “Yes it’s true. This man has no d*ck.” Those are ALL said by Bill Murray! Anyway, if you haven’t seen this movie, your parents have no brain.

29. Raging Bull

I know it’s crazy to put one of the greatest movies of all time at 29, but it’s just my opinion, so don’t go ape sh*t. Raging Bull is a great movie. Phenomenal editing, acting, writing, cinematography, and directing by the ass-kicking Martin Scorsese. Actually, DeNiro forced Scorsese to make it after a major cocaine overdose. So, if Raging Bull hadn’t been made, Marty may not be alive today. My favorite part of the movie is the whole downfall. It’s so beautifully portrayed, even though it’s so tragic, like a Shakespeare play. Plus, the Black and White is a great editing choice by Thelma Schoonmaker, who won the oscar for best editing. Sadly, this movie lost Best Picture to Ordinary People. Raging Bull SO deserved to win!

28. Brazil

Terry Gilliam’s Brazil is one of the craziest, mind-blowing films ever, both physically and mentally. It really portrays the future in a more plausible way than other Sci-fi films of the time. No lasers, no spaceships, and no intergalactic war. Terrorism, bureaucracy, and commercialism are the major things. This features a great performance by Jonathan Pryce and a great small part by Robert DeNiro, who plays a rebel against society. the best scene for me is the scene where Sam is about to get tortured. It’s so surreal and weird with it’s fish eye shot. But, it adds up at the awesome, twist ending. This movie isn’t about the story, it’s about the visual experience. This film is a mind-blowing classic.

27. The Shining

This is the creepiest movie I’ve ever seen. From the maze to the bathtub, it always gives me nightmares. But, it’s not just a horror movie. Since it’s Kubrick, it’s got a lot of symbolism and mysterious ways. You never really know the reality of the situation, you’re supposed to interpret it the way you want. But, this movie also has a plot, so it balances out evenly. My favorite part is Jack Nicholson’s over the top performance as Jack Torrance. The scene where he first meets Lloyd is so great. his laugh always makes me laugh. This movie is a very mysterious one. You never know if Jack is crazy, or if there are actual ghosts in the hotel. But, that’s for you to decide. One of the greatest Kubrick films I’ve ever seen. But remember, I said one of.

26. Taxi Driver

This is a Martin Scorsese film that explores the mind of a nobody New York taxi driver. It’s so well done, that instead of thinking he’s a terrible person, you end up liking him and seeing things through his eyes. DeNiro nails the role of Travis Bickle and turns him from dark antihero, to psychotic antihero. Plus, the portrayal of 70′s New York is haunting and turns Travis insane. Cybill Shepherd, Harvey Keitel, Jodie Foster, Albert Brooks, and Peter Boyle all give great supporting roles. Especially Boyle. Just a Scorsese film that can haunt and entertain you at the same time.

25. Ed Wood

This is a Tim Burton film that isn’t supernatural, but has a certain, stylized feel to it. It stars Johnny Depp as the filmmaker Ed Wood, who gets stuck in the cage of bad movies. It’s a depressing, yet happy film about a man who just wanted to be heard through his movies. Sadly, they all fail. This also is a warning to filmmakers that what your making might be crap. So, yeah. Martin Landau was fantastic as Bela Lugosi (he even won the oscar) and Vincent D’Onofrio has a great cameo as Orson Wells. The only problem is Horseface (aka Sarah Jessica Parker) is in it. She sucks. But, the movie’s great. Totally check it out.

24. Scarface

Al Pacino delivers one of his most over the top performances as Tony Montana who gets to the top and then crashes to the bottom. It’s a cheesy action movie, but under the cheese, is a tale of power and love and how Tony is ruined by both. It’s a tragic and entertaining tale. The end shootout is one of the best shootouts ever. Frank Loggia and Michelle Pfeiffer are also great supporting roles and the movie is set to go. This is a violent film, but it’s also fun, so give it a watch (if you haven’t already).

23. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

This drug-fueled crazy, satirical, philosophical, and nonsensical acid trip of a movie is awesome. Johnny Depp and Benicio Del toro are the most epic combo ever! I love the culture are dialogue in this film, along with the music. The highlight of the film is the first 40 minutes. They’re hilarious! Deeper acid trips fill the second half. But, it’s all awesome. It may have gotten bad reviews, but Fear and Loathing is a fun movie to watch when you have time.

22. Beetlejuice

This is classic Tim Burton. Creative visuals, simple story, and Danny Elfman music. It’s all so great. Film was invented for Michael Keaton to kick over a plastic model of a tree. I saw this at a young age and it’s always stuck with me. It’s also got a young Alec Baldwin! Like, a REALLY young Alec Baldwin. The highlight is the end. That’s when Beetlejuice mainly does his thing. It’s hilarious. This film really is the perfect balance of horror and comedy.

21. Miller’s Crossing

To have the Coen brothers do a gangster movie is awesome to say the least. But when you see it, you are blown away. It’s a mix of old and contemporary gangster movies, along with the Coens’ own unique style. Gabriel Byrne, John Turturro, Albert Finney, and the best, Jon Polito always do a good job, but they’re especially good here. The best part is when Albert Finney shoots the crap out of the guys with a tommy gun while the song Danny boy is playing. It’s so badass! Anyway, everybody should see the gangster meets Coens awesomeness, Miller’s Crossing.

I’ve decided to compile my top 40 movies. Why 40? Well, I came up with more than 30, but less than 50. So, here goes.

40. The King of Comedy

This is the first of 5 Scorsese films on the list. It’s a great story about a wanna-be comedian. But, the only reason is because of the fame. When he get’s rejected, he does what any normal person would do, kidnaps the host of the talk show. It may sound abrupt, but the character is crazy. I LOVE DeNiro in this movie. He should’ve won the oscar for Best Actor. He plays this so well! Plus, it’s a black comedy with Scorsese camera angles and trade marks. What can I say, but a masterpiece about an insane outcast.

39. No Country for Old Men

This is the Coens going back to their roots (Blood Simple, Miller’s Crossing). This wasn’t a funny movie in the least. Blood Simple and Miller’s Crossing actually had some funny scenes, but No Country for Old Men is very serious. And that’s what I love about it. The seriousness is so realistic. But, lets get to our star, the killer, Anton. Anton is one scary dude. He kills people left and right and you never know why. But, Anton is supposed to be a representation of the criminal mind, and how you can’t understand it. And when you look at the movie that way, it automatically chills your bones. Jesus! Anyway, this movie really deserved that oscar, and it’s great it won.

38. Matewan

I just saw this recently, and it was amazing. I love how the tension builds up and up to the point that people die! Over coal mining! It’s a really fascinating and well written film. But, the best part, IT’S TRUE! That’s right, the story of Matewan, West Virginia is true. That makes it all the more interesting. Chris Cooper and David Strathairn are magnificent in this coal mine of drama. Watch this movie.

37. Desperado

It moved from 2 to 6 to 37. But, I still love it. I just like 36 movies better, that’s all. I love this movie, because of the extraordinary action sequences. Seriously, they’re epic! From the bar scene to the guitar case shootout to the rooftop scene, they’re all so awesome! Plus, Antonio Banderas is great and Salma Hayek is HOTTTTT!!!!! Seriously, she’s smoking! It’s very impressive that the film is so low budget and it looks so good. This is a great movie and people should definitely see it.

36. Rear Window

A lot of people think Vertigo is the best Hitchcock movie, but I think Rear Window is better. It’s more realistic and it has Grace Kelly, so it’s automatically better. Jimmy Stewart is great as the paranoid photographer. He’s so negative. But, Hitchcock is so brilliant, he makes sub-plots about the other characters. This movie is more than just a mystery, it’s a character study about this one photographer and how paranoid he is. If haven’t seen this movie, definitely check it out. I think anybody can like this film.

35. Dr. Strangelove

I love this movie because of Peter Sellers. People think Pink Panther or Being There, but I think his hands down funniest performance is in Dr. Strangelove as the President, the Captain, and the doctor. Plus George C. Scott is hilarious as the military man who is so against Sellers. But, this movie is basically over the top stories of what actually could happen. A General has a nervous breakdown, so he sends troops to bomb the Soviet Union. It could be a drama, but it’s played off as a black comedy, which is the reason I love it. This only proves that Kubrick is a genius.

34. The Man who wasn’t There

I think this is not only a very underrated film, but an extraordinarily good underrated film. I think this is a representation of what the Coens are all about. A simple story that grows into an all over the place complicated one. Billy Bob Thornton does a great job as the main character and Tony Shaloub is great as the smooth talking lawyer. He’s better here than he is in Monk! But, what this film leads up to is really uncalled for, but it’s realistic. Only, it’s kinda hypnotic, this movie almost puts you in a daze. It really deserves an analyzation.

33. T2: Judgement Day

This is better than Terminator because it’s less of a B-Movie and more of a science fiction action thriller with a bigger budget and better acting. I think everybody likes this movie. It’s dark, yet it’s got some funny moments. It’s also thought provoking and has a scary as sh*t bad guy. Robert Patrick was freaky as the T-1000. It was because he looked like a cop! But he was a robot made of liquid metal that kills us all. The action scenes and special effects don’t actually dominate the plot here. And that’s the main reason it’s so good. It’s a good balance. If you don’t watch this movie, Cyberdyne will send back a Terminator that’ll kill us all. So, you better watch it, quick.

32. Inglourious Basterds

This is nothing short of a silly action movie. But, it’s a fun watch, even if it’s two and a half hours long. It doesn’t rely on the action or any special effects, it rely’s on characters and gore. That may sound dumb, but it’s a fun movie. Brad Pitt and Christoph Waltz were fantastic, as were Melanie Laurent and Mike Myers! Yeah, Mike Myers had a cameo! It’s awesome! I just want to say, if World war II ended this way, it would’ve been awesome. And that’s coming from a pacifist. Anyway, some scenes are brutal and hard tow watch, but all in all, it’s just a fun movie.

31. Clerks

This movie is hilarious! Every joke and piece of dialogue makes me laugh. Just like Inglourious Basterds, it’s a fun movie, but in my eyes, it’s more philosophical and more dramatic. These people find out what they’re gonna do for the rest of their life in a Saturday. It’s really fascinating. Randal is the best part, though. He’s such a slacker, but you like him and can relate to him, even though he toatlly puts Dante in trouble. This movie is just hilarious.

Next time it’ll be part 2 (30-21)!

Let’s talk Oscars!

The 84th Academy Awards were held last night from 8:30 pm eastern time to 11:40 pm eastern time. They used old traditions (Billy Crystal, same awards) and added new things (Cirque du  Soleil, video clips). Overall, they were pretty solid, in my opinion. But, there are some things that bugged me. Lets get those out of the way first.

The main one that is still bugging me is Meryl Streep winning Best Actress for Iron Lady. I have nothing against Meryl Streep, she’s a fine actress, but Glenn Close had never won an oscar before and this may have been her last chance. It kinda breaks my heart. Meryl Streep had won twice, which is a lot. But, Meryl Streep is a great actress and the fact that when she went up there she knew exactly what I was thinking. Next on my list is Cirque du Soleil. I thought their act was amazing! I couldn’t do those things if my life depended on it! But, the fact is this s the Oscars. Not the Tonys. It felt like it was filler, like they had nothing else to do. I like Cirque du Soleil, but not at the oscars. Also, it really felt weird when they awkwardly cut to the musicians. The hell? Why are they smiling so strangely? It was weird. You can cut to the music, but not that suddenly.

Good things now. I think it was great that Jean Dujardin won Best Actor for The Artist. Although that isn’t my first choice for Best Picture, Jean Dujardin did a magnificent job. So, he deserved it. I was thinking Clooney would’ve won, but he didn’t. Also, Christopher Plummer winning Best Supporting Actor for Beginners made me feel good. After all these years, they finally give him the naked, golden dude in which they call Oscar. Why couldn’t you do that for Glenn Close, Academy?! Huh?!

Best Picture went to the Artist, which doesn’t set me off, but it wouldn’t be my first or second choice. A matter of fact, it would be 4th. Number one would be Hugo. Number two would be Descendants. And number 3 would be The Help. So, yeah. But, The Artist is still a fine movie. Just not Oscar material, in my opinion.

Oh yeah, the host! I almost forgot. Billy Crystal was awesome. His jokes were great and were always in good nature. Plus, his opening film is the best I’ve ever seen. It was funny, charming, and more creative, since they didn’t use film clips. Also, Billy Crystal’s song about Scorsese was funny.

So, yeah. That’s what I thought about the Oscars. Peace out!

I did the 70′s, so lets do the 80′s. Here goes.

10. Back to the Future

This isn’t as much about the plot as it is about the nostalgia and 80′s-ness to it. Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd deliver great performances in this movie and I think Lloyd should’ve won the oscar for Best Supporting Actor. To be honest, the first time I saw this movie, I didn’t really like it. It came off as cheesy and weak. But the more and more I see it, the better it gets. This is one of the treasures that will always, and I mean always get better with repeated viewings.

9. Die Hard

To be honest, this is my favorite Christmas movie ever. Better than It’s a Wonderful Life, better than Miracle on 34th Street, this is the real deal. It really is an iconic movie and is one movie where the main action star can actually talk right and not act terribly. Seriously, Bruce Willis does a great job as one of my favorite movie characters, John McClane. But the guy who steals the show is Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber, a German criminal and the main villain of the movie. Unlike other action movies, Die Hard actually allows you to take liking to some of the villains. I really seem to find Theo and Hans really interesting. Theo’s mostly hilarious. Also, this isn’t only a Christmas and action movie, it’s a heist movie. That’s a lot of genres! This movie will always make me sing Ode to Joy.

8. Raiders of the Lost Ark

A lot of people like Last Crusade, but I like Raiders better. I think it has more creative visuals, darker storyline, violent action, interesting characters, thrilling suspense, and stunning camera techniques. Plus, Harrison Ford gives his best performance, EVER! Better than Fugitive, better than Star Wars, the only think that comes close is Presumed Innocent. He was awesome in that. But, I’m getting off topic. Raiders of the Lost Ark is also the first Indiana Jones movie. George Lucas wrote the script and produced it with Steven Spielberg who also directed it. They are the ultimate combo. Plus great supporting roles by Karen Allen and Paul Freeman, and your in adventure nirvana.

7. The Shining

I decided to put a more sophisticated horror movie on this list, rather than Jason or Freddy. The Shining is a very mysterious, surreal, dark, bleak, and scary as sh*t horror movie by Stanley Kubrick. Just like all of his other work, Kubrick’s The Shining really deserves an analyzation. Every scene, cut, moment, or word means something. It’s like a puzzle. I also think this is hands down the BEST Jack Nicholson performance ever. Jack really should’ve at least been nominated, let alone won. This isn’t your typical guy goes around killing people movie. It has deeper meaning, metaphorical messages, and edge of your seat scares, that will scar you for life. The bathtub scene, as well as the ending maze chase always freak me out. This is just another masterpiece by Kubrick.

6. Scarface

Al Pacino delivers one of the most over the top performances of his entire career to this movie. But, unlike Scent of a Woman, Heat, or Carlito’s Way it’s not annoying. It’s so bad, it’s great. Not just cheesy action and over the top emotions make up this movie. Under the cheese, lies a story of greed, power, and a man who would stop at nothing to get to the top. But when he gets there, it all comes tumbling down. It’s just and epic story of the rise and fall of a gangster’s empire.

5. Ghostbusters

This is the most quotable movie of all time (along with Big Lebowski). Bill Murray is so funny, even looking at him makes me wanna laugh! Literally every single word that he says is delivered with that devilish, sarcastic grin. It makes him seem hilarious. The special effects may be cheesy, but they were pretty impressive for the time and now they make the movie even funnier. The Zuul dogs are also pretty scary, along with the librarian in the beginning. But, that makes it a perfect blend of comedy and horror. Plus, I love how it satires the media when the Ghostbusters become famous. The whole movies just one big barrel of laughs everyone can enjoy.

4. Beetlejuice

This, in my opinion, is the most visually creative film Tim Burton has directed. From the dead waiting room, to the Beetlejuice snake, to the design of the Deetz family’s house! They’re all so creative. Plus the music by Danny Elfman, the hilarious performance by Michael Keaton, and the simply complicated plot, you have a great movie! Honestly, Tim Burton said he had the creativity with Pee Wee’s Big Adventure, but he proved it with Beetlejuice. This is one scary and hilarious movie I will never forget.

3. Raging Bull

A lot of people argue that this is Scorsese’s masterpiece. It isn’t his greatest masterpiece, it’s one of many. This takes boxer Jake LaMotta and explores his short happy days and his long, tragic sad days. Robert DeNiro delivers one of his greatest performances ever. It’s really a shame this didn’t win best picture. It’s that darn Redford! Stop making good movies, Redford! But, in all seriousness, this has to be up there with The Godfather and Citizen Kane for one of the greatest movies of all time. It really is great.

2. Full Metal Jacket

Stanley Kubrick strikes again, this time with a war flick that shows how these veterans get dehumanized, in the war, in order to kill. They literally train them to be killers, not Marines. But, this has deeper meanings about life and death and which side is good, just like Kubrick does with other films. The best parts are boot camp and the end with the sniper. I won’t give it away, but the sniper scene is pretty haunting. But, R. Lee Ermey as Sergeant Hartman is one of the most iconic characters and performances in film. It has been referenced and parodied so many times in the past 25 years, you really lose count. Matthew Modine, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Adam Baldwin are also great in this nightmarish war epic.

1. Amadeus

This movie really did deserve to win Best Picture and I’m so glad it did. It may not be true, but the visually stunning costume design and set pieces mixed with the Shakespearian elements of tragedy, love, and jealousy, plus the pretty Mozart music make this movie absolutely beautiful. Tom Hulce does a great job as Mozart and F. Murray Abraham does an even better job as Salieri. I love their constant feud with Salieri playing mean tricks and backstabbing Mozart, while the innocent, childish Mozart tries to battle his demons. It’s just so well done. The scene where Salieri is reading Mozart’s music and is having an orgasm describes me watching this movie. It’s just so good. It is long, about 3 hours, but you should definitely see it at least once in your life.

Just somethin’ I wanted to do because I’ve been watching them all weekend. Here goes.

10. Nightmare at 20,000 Feet

Season 5, Episode 3, aired October 11, 1963, written by Richard Matheson.

This episode is about a man (SHATNER!!) and his wife who get on a plane for the first time in 6 months. Why have they not gone in 6 months? Because Shatner had a nervous breakdown on a plane and was committed to a sanitarium (aka Looney Bin). Shatner’s nervous but he’s doing alright, until he opens the window and sees somebody on the wing of the plane. Shatner alerts the stewardess, but when they come and look out the window the man is gone. Well, turns out it’s a beast, not a man. Everybody thinks Shatner’s going crazy because he’s the only one who can see the beast. This is one of those psychological episodes. You don’t know if it’s real or not until the end. But, this one is also a classic, so I just had to have it on the list. It really is a great episode, and is one of Captain Kirk’s best performances.

9. Where is Everybody?

Season 1, Episode 1, aired October 2, 1959, written by Rod Serling.

This is the first aired episode of the Twilight Zone. It’s also one of the best. Basically, it’s about a man who just finds himself in a town with no people. He doesn’t know how he got there or how to get out. And his sanity slowly deteriorates after a whole day in this deserted, mysterious town. This is a great episode because you are with this man. You don’t know where you are, why your there, or even how to get out. It makes you feel uncomfortable and curious, just how a Twilight Zone episode should make you feel like. Also, Earl Holliman does a great job as our main and only character. Not a famous one, but still a good episode.

8. Escape Clause

Season 1, Episode 6, aired November 6, 1959, written by Rod Serling.

A hypochondriac and narcissist is obsessed with living. So, he sells his soul to the devil for immortality and indestructibility. But he has an escape clause. Being able to die in the moment. But being the stupid fool he is, the man doesn’t think he’ll need it. But, trust me. He needs it. I love this episode because I love David Wayne as the main character. He’s so despicable and mean that it’s a chore to like him. He’s that bad. Also, the things he does. Like getting run over by a train. It’s actually a bit comical. Seriously, it’s funny. Anyway, this is a great entry and will be one of favorites in the Twilight Zone.

7. Nothing in the Dark

Season 3, Episode 16, aired January 5, 1962, written by George Clayton Johnson

This episode is about an old lady who won’t rescue a cop who’s been shot because she’s afraid of death. she finally takes the cop in and tells him her stories about Death. The whole episode is basically the cop and the old lady reminiscing about death. That’s the beauty of the episode is the simplicity and the tension. The tension starts because they are both suspicious of each other and they ask each other questions. You may argue that the twist is pretty obvious, but I thought it wasn’t bad. Plus, Robert Redford is the cop, so it’s pretty cool. Anyway, this episode is pretty awesome and should be watched. Seriously, watch it.

6. Living Doll

Season 5, Episode 6, Aired November 1, 1963, Written by Jerry Sohl

This is about a little girl and her mother who buy a doll for the girl. the doll’s name is Talking Tina and she’s pretty creepy. Well, the father doesn’t like the doll. But then the doll starts telling the dad things like “I’m going to kill you.” Just like Nightmare at 20,000 Feet, this is one of those psychological episodes. You don’t know if the doll is real or fake until the VERY end. Unlike Child’s Play, this is actually a MYSTERY! Child’s Play may be entertaining but to call it original is like calling Pauly Shore funny. It’s just wrong. Anyway, this episode will make me shiver anytime I listen to Tina Turner.

5. It’s a Good Life

Season 3, Episode 8, aired November 3, 1961, written by Rod Serling

This episode is about a 6 year old kid who has telekinetic powers and he isolates a whole town and basically controls it. Now, while that sounds comedic and the episode is also quite funny, I personally think this is one of the darkest episodes of the series. Why? 7 words–Jack in the Box with Human head. That’s all I’m giving away. My favorite part is how everybody always uses the word “good” rather than something more creative. Also the adults are always so scared around the kid which makes this episode HILARIOUS!! But, it’s so well written, it also includes dark tension and suspense. Only one thing to say and that’s Rod Serling’s a genius.

4. Eye of the Beholder

Season 2, Episode 6, aired November 11, 1960, written by Rod Serling

This episode is about a woman who is having an operation on her face to make it look “normal.” For the majority of the episode she’s in bandages, so you can’t see her face. But the odd part is you can’t see the other people’s faces. There’s a reason for that. Anyway, before the twist scene, there’s a lot of strong, sad monologues by the woman. They’re really sad! I mean Jesus, lady! Keep you sadness to yourself! But, this is a classic Twilight Zone episode and I’m pretty sure everyone’s seen it. But, for those who haven’t, I’m not spoiling anything. Also, this episode is beautifully shot in darkness and shadow. It actually looks best in black and white. So, all I have to say is what a classic.

3. Nick of Time

Season 2, Episode 7, aired November 18, 1960, written by Richard Matheson

William Shatner and some chick’s car broke down, so they stop at a diner. Well, the napkin holder has a fortune telling machine. So, Shatner asks it some questions. The answers from the machine are coincidentally true every time, so Shatner becomes a slave to it. There really isn’t a twist ending, only a message. The message is don’t trust everything you see. That moral is pretty much the reason I love this episode. I mean, Shatner gets so attached to the machine, he starts asking where he’ll live. He goes crazy!!!! Not much to say only, if you trust psychic’s, watch this episode.

2. The Masks

Season 5, Episode 25, aired March 20, 1964, written by Rod Serling

An old man in New Orleans is dying and is having his despicable family over for dinner. They obviously only want his money. So, he makes them wear disgusting masks to show who they really are in his last hours. This episode is a really good one because of the tension. The tension starts at the end when the old man starts insulting his family. You smile when this happens and you have an evil laugh when the twist happens. I won’t give it away, but the twist is awesome. Seriously. Anyway, everybody (even if you’ve seen it) should watch this episode. Just go to Netflix and add the Twilight Zone and go to Season 5. Bodda Bing, Bodda Boom!

1. The Invaders

Season 2, Episode 15, aired January 27, 1961, written by Richard Matheson

A woman in a cabin hears noises. She goes up to the attic to find that aliens have come into here house. So, she fights them the whole episode. What I love about this episode is besides Rod Serling’s narration, there’s no dialogue. That proves how well this episode is made. They get the point across so obviously, but without dialogue. Also, the plot and way it’s filmed makes the episode even a bit scary! Plus the blow your mind twist ending, and you’ve got the greatest Twilight Zone episode ever made (in my opinion). Oh yeah, also a great performance by Agnes Moorehead.