There are several movies from Fantastic Fest 2010 I can’t wait to see again. And there are more I didn’t see that I’m looking forward to finally checking out. Alas, I could find no centralized place to see when/how they will be available, so I thought I’d give it a shot.
10. RUMBLE FISH
It’s only been within the last couple years that I finally saw RUMBLE FISH, but it quickly left a permanent mark on my psyche. I really think it is one of the most beautifully surreal movies I’ve ever seen. And the score, by The Police’s Stewart Copeland, is one of the most unique and recognizable I’ve heard. The main reason I’m so entranced by this movie is due to Mickey Rourke, though. His performance in RUMBLE FISH is right up there with Brando’s best, and it really kind of defies description.
9. SAY ANYTHING
Yes, my original love for this movie stems from my lonely late teenage years when I pined for a lady friend and I was convinced Lloyd Dobler and I were the same. However, even after growing up (to a certain degree), my appreciation for SAY ANYTHING continues to grow, primarily, I think, due to the brilliant dialogue and terrifically entertaining supporting characters.
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80, 61-70, 51-60, 41-50, 31-40, 21-30)
20. LAST OF THE MOHICANS
And now I will have Jones’ and Edelman’s amazing score stuck in my head for the remainder of the day. The music does it’s best to keep up with the badass images on the screen and the raw emotion of the characters, but it’s no easy feat. This is what kicked off my love affair with Michael Mann, and I think it remains the best he’s done.
19. FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH
I wish I went to high school with these guys. The only proof that Sean Penn has the ability to laugh.
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80, 61-70, 51-60, 41-50, 31-40)
30 . TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE (1974)
I cannot imagine how terrifying this must have been in 1974. It’s amazing how little on-screen gore it actually contains, which is a testament to the quality of filmmaking, considering it’s reputation.
29. THE THIRD MAN
Such a remarkable looking film. Considering the technical demands of sewer scene alone, I find it hard to believe Welles didn’t have some input in its direction (but this is the only Carol Reed movie I’ve seen, so what do I know?).
In anticipation of counting down my favorite 30 movies, I thought I would list the 5 flicks that just missed the Top 100 (in no particular order):
THE LIMEY
GROUNDHOG DAY
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80, 61-70, 51-60, 41-50)
40. SHAUN OF THE DEAD
Fun as hell and more entertaining than most of the movies it references (heresy!). Just note perfect in every way.
39. MY FAIR LADY
I grew up listening to this soundtrack on vinyl, which I’m sure has played a large part in my continued affection for MFL. Also, the set design and cinematography are the highest form of eye candy. It’s just a delightful f’ing movie.
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80, 61-70, 51-60)
50. THE FRENCH CONNECTION
Technically, this probably should be in my top 10, considering how it’s influenced so many gritty action films since its release. Unfortunately, it’s effectiveness has been slightly diminished by its own awesomeness, as THE FRENCH CONNECTION has served as the basis for every police/action movie in the last 40 years to attempt to improve upon.
49. HEAT
Perfect example: Does HEAT exist in a world where THE FRENCH CONNECTION doesn’t? No f’ing way. Regardless, if you give me the choice between the two I’ll pick HEAT 90% of the time. Does that make me a bad person? Probably.
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80, 61-70)
60. INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS
The most recent release on my list is here because it is, quite simply, one of the most deliriously entertaining movies I’ve seen. Delirious I say.
59. RONIN
This would make the list based on the car chases alone, but it’s also a great caper movie with one of Deniro’s last nonparodic performances.
(continued; see 91-100, 81-90, 71-80)
70. SERPICO
The obvious predecessor (along with THE FRENCH CONNECTION) to movies like NARC, SERPICO is the second best in what might be my favorite genre. Also, RUSHMORE was made even more enjoyable after finally catching up to this a couple years ago.
69. MULHOLLAND DRIVE
I’ve never surrendered to a seemingly nonsensical movie quicker than I did with MD. Although I still haven’t figured out what half of it means, there is just something so damn appealing about it that it puts me in a nearly hypnotized state.
(Continued; see 91-100, 81-90)
Inspired by the fine folks @bobfreelander and @BTSjunkie (and others), I’ve put together my Top 100. This list will exhibit my extreme bias towards recent films, which is a problem I would love to remedy. Therefore, if you have an (older) “classic” in mind that possibly influenced or is somehow related to my choices, please leave a comment with your recommendation. Thank you!
80. SIGNS
M. Night has been much-maligned for pretty much everything he’s done since SIGNS, but this remains the most effective earthbound alien-horror film I’ve seen.
79. KILL BILL VOL. 1
KILL BILL certainly isn’t going to be the last QT movie on this list. I think I prefer Vol. 1 because I was never a big David Carradine fan. And I love everything with O-Ren Ishii.
