Do you remember the first movie you saw in the theater? The one that set the standard for the rest of your viewing life? I remember two…Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and Star Wars, and they’re still my favorites. But there are more…
AJ’s Top Ten Movies…in no particular order
1. The Adventures of Robin Hood (Errol Flynn version)
To me, the quintessential historical romantic adventure. The chemistry between Errol Flynn and Oliva DeHaviland is palpable…I fall in love with this movie every time I watch it.
2. Singin’ In the Rain
One of my two favorite musicals (see below for the other). Gene Kelly and Donald O’Connor at their best. A thoroughly enjoyable movie.
3. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (extended version)
Not so much a fan of the books, but I LOVED the movies. If you haven’t treated yourself to the extended versions, you’re missing out .
4. Ocean’s 11 (George Clooney version)
I liked the original with Frank Sinatra, but let’s face it…it’s George Clooney in a heist movie. Just plain fun. The sequels are good, but you can’t beat the first one.
5–3-way tie–Finding Nemo, Ratatoulle, and It’s a Bug’s Life
Pixar just does it right. Movies that are fun for the child in everyone, but tell a wonderful, rich story. Who knew animated characters could be so real?
6. Some Like it Hot
Marliyn Monroe at her best and a comedy that stands the test of time. Positively hilarious.
7. Aliens
The first one still terrifies me, but this one has the action edge I love.
8. Chocolat
Don’t ask how long it took me to watch this, but once I did, it became one of my favorites. Chocolate and Johnny Depp as an Irish gypsy. Not a bad combination
9. Victor/Victoria
My second favorite musical that cheers me up every time. “Cockroach!”
10. The Sting
There’s something about a good con and Robert Redford and Paul Newman pull off just that. A classic American movie that is just as much fun to watch today as it was when it came out in…never mind.
Honorable mention
Avengers
I was one of the ones waiting and boy did it pay off! Joss Whedon has proven himself a powerhouse screenwriter and director in uniting the Marvel Heroes for this action-packed (and surprisingly character driven) movie.
Tangled
Disney takes their time and does it right. A wonderful updated version of Rapunzel, it’s charming, emotional, and beautiful to look at.
RED (Retired and Extremely Dangerous)
This movie has everything, including a fabulous cast. Part romance, part action adventure, part comedy…what more could a girl ask for.
Star Trek (2009 version)
A great re-set of the world…can’t wait to see where they go from here. Why watch? This movie is the Hero’s Journey personified. JJ Abrams just GETS IT!
You’ve Got Mail/Sleepless in Seattle
I don’t think you can beat the combination of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan (let’s pretend Joe vs. the Volcano didn’t happen)
The Bank Job
Another heist movie, but this one was refreshing.
Casino Royale
The good news: a perfect re-start of the Bond movies. Daniel Craig IS Bond (especially if you’ve read the original books by Ian Flemming).
The bad news: this one’s so good, it almost turns the older ones into comedies.
The Quiet Man
One of John Wayne’s best movies…yes, he’s sexist. Yes, it’s dated. I don’t care. It’s a beautiful movie.
The Help
Although I haven’t read the book, the performances were brilliant and the film though-provoking. How far have we come?
HARRY POTTER Movies 1 – 7/8
Now that the series has concluded, I can honestly say the entire collection is brilliant. My favorite? The final 4 films, which were all directed by David Yates. Well done! When can I board the Hogwarts Express?
