Guest Columnist: Gianna's Best of the Aughts

Adaptation (2002, Dir: Spike Jonze)-Brilliant take on writer’s block and a scathing look at the workings of Hollywood. One of the rare films that Nicolas Cage was actually good in.

Amelie (2001, Dir: Jean-Pierre Jeunet)-A frothy, gorgeous confection of a movie whose one of many highlights was the performance of Audrey Tantou.

Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007, Dir: Andrew Dominik)-A breakout performance by Casey Affleck, tops this wonderful, if somewhat overlooked film.

Before Sunset (2004, Dir: Richard Linkletter)-The sequel to Linkletter’s Before Sunrise, catches up with the Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke now in their 30’s, and there’s still a lot to be said.

Billy Elliot (2000, Dir: Stephan Daldry)-A wonderful joyous film about discovering who you are.

Bowling for Columbine (2002, Dir: Michael Moore)-Love him or hate him, Moore’s examination of our country’s gun culture still raises many questions.

Coraline (2009, Dir: Henry Selick)-Selick’s master work of stop-motion animation was one of the most creative films of 2009.

Dogville (2003, Dir: Lars Von Trier)-The first of Von Trier’s ‘America’ trilogy, a thinly veiled commentary on US foreign policy, strips cinematic devices bare and produces a raw hard-hitting film.

Eastern Promises (2007, Dir: David Cronenberg)-This tightly woven crime mystery fully benefits from Cronenberg’s restrained direction and Viggo Mortensen’s fantastic performance.

Elf (2003, Dir: John Favreau)-An instant classic from the moment it was released. Quite frankly there is nothing more difficult than creating a Christmas film that succeeds and endures.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004, Dir: Michael Gondry)-A wonderful examination of a failed relationship, accompanied with haunting visuals. (Jami's note: meh.)

The Fall (2006. Dir: Tarsem Singh)-Singh’s wonderful fairy-tale fable is all the more impressive when you learn that all the visuals were achieved without any CGI whatsoever.

Finding Nemo (2003, Dir: Andrew Stanton)-First of three Pixar films on this list. Finding Nemo was a wonderful tale of letting go. Featuring the hallmarks of Pixar exquisite animation and a fantastic story.

Hard Candy (2005, Dir: David Slade)-What could have been a run-of-the-mill torture porn flick, Hard Candy became a taught psychological thriller. Two fabulous leads and strong direction elevated this film to a classic suspense film.

Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001, Dir: John Cameron Mitchell)-One of the many great musicals to come out of the decade. Cameron Mitchell’s film adaptation of his one-man show is something special, though not for all tastes.

History of Violence (2005, Dir: David Cronenberg)-An intricate study of who an individual is. Cronenberg at his best.

Hot Fuzz (2007, Dir: Edgar Wright)-This wicked send-up of Hollywood action films has what Hollywood parodies do not: humor.

In America (2002, Dir: Jim Sheridan)-A beautiful and heartbreaking story of one family’s introduction to America. (Jami's note: I think I'm still crying over this one!)

Inside Man (2006, Dir: Spike Lee)-A taught, well-crafted crime caper. Filled with great twists and turns. Wonderful entertainment.

Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001, 2002, 2003, Dir: Peter Jackson)-A daring gamble of shooting all three books at once paid off in spades. One of the most enjoyable movie-going experiences of the decade, hands down!!

Man on Wire (2008, Dir: James Marsh)-A wonderful tribute to one man’s unique quest. Unnerving, funny and ultimately inspirational.

Memento (2000, Dir: Christopher Nolan)-Nolan’s breakout film of a tale told backwards, was one of the most well-crafted mystery films of the whole decade.

Moulin Rouge (2001, Dir: Baz Lurhman)-The one that kicked off the great revival of movie musicals. Its strengths far out-weigh its weaknesses. (Jami respectfully disagrees with this choice)

No Country for Old Men (2007, Dir: Joel & Ethan Coen)-A true masterpiece from beginning to end.

O Brother Where Art Thou (2000, Dir: Joel Coen)-A great example of when critics simply get it wrong. One of the best and most quotable comedies of the decade.

Ocean’s Eleven (2001, Dir: Steven Soderbergh)-Unfortunately the subsequent sequels have tarnished this film. Still, it stands out and one of the cleverest films in a long time.

Once (2007, Dir: John Carney)-This wonderful love story, hits an emotional core that few films have ever hit.

Pan’s Labyrinth (2006, Dir: Guillermo Del Toro)-Del Toro’s fantastic horror/fairytale. Unique and beautiful.

Shattered Glass (2003, Dir: Billy Ray)-The best film you didn’t see, detailing the Stephen Glass/New Republic plagiarism scandal. If you missed it, rent it.

Slither (2006, Dir: James Gunn)-Yes, sometimes you have to grade within the genre. Slither was the best horror film to come out this decade.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008, Dir: Danny Boyle)-Why I personally love going to the movies. A great story from beginning to end; completely satisfying.

Spirited Away (2001, Dir: Hayao Miyazaki)-The film that brought Miyazaki to the mainstream.

Touching the Void (2003, Dir: Kevin Macdonald)-A taught and thrilling account of a mountain climbing expedition gone horribly wrong. The fact that you know how everything turns out and you’re still on the edge of your seat, speaks volumes.

Tropic Thunder (2008, Dir: Ben Stiller)- From it’s scathing indictment of all things Hollywood to Robert Downey Jr.’s inspired performance, it ended up one of the funniest comedies of the decade.

25^th Hour (2002, Dir: Spike Lee)-Another great, and largely forgotten Lee film. One of the first NYC based films to acknowledge its post 9/11 status.

Up in the Air (2009, Dir: Jason Reitman)-A fantastic internal character study of one man’s established life. George Clooney ends the decade with one of the most subtle layered performances.

WALL-E (2008, Dir: Andrew Stanton)-Another crowning achievement in Pixar’s impressive roster of films. Sweet, touching, funny and with an environmental message that doesn’t hit you over the head.

Where the Wild Things Are (2009, Dir: Spike Jonze)-A heartful and insightful exploration of the psyche of the lonely child. Beautifully shot and heartbreaking.

Jami's 100 Film you should see... or not.. I don't know, do as you please!

So, inspired by Gianna's List of 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, I've compiled my own list of 100 movies you may not have seen for one reason or other. I tried to stay away from AFI's top 100 films, as well as Gianna's list of recommendations. Not all are "unknown" or even "unappreciated" films, but all are worth a glance if you've missed them.

2001 - Trippy, weird, and supremely cool! Don't expect it to make sense.

28 Days Later - One of the best horror movies I've seen in a long time.

84 Charing Cross Road - A sweet, simple, completely forgotten film.

A Hard Day’s Night - A hugely influential film - and really funny (but use the subtitles!)

About a Boy - Hugh Grant gives a stellar performance here

After Hours - The best film to watch after a bad day.

All of Me - Silly, funny film from the 80s.

All Quiet on the Western Front - Early Best Picture winner, but I bet you haven't seen it!

Almost Famous - Great script, great music, great performances.

Amelie - French film about the single most adorable human ever.

Arsenic & Old Lace - Cary Grant gives his best comedic performance. Ever.

Babette’s Feast - For anyone who loves food.

Barton Fink - Complex and confusing, but gorgeous and thought provoking.

Blood Simple - Another great Coen brothers movie. Their first - and possibly best.

Born on the 4th of July - It's a shame how underrated an actor Tom Cruise is.

Brazil - Watch the director's cut. You'll still be confused, but also amazed.

Central Station - Overshadowed by "Life is Beautiful," but so very touching.

Charade - Audrey Hepburn. Cary Grant. Need I say more?

Clash of the Titans - Bad, but awesomely so.

Crimes & Misdemeanors - Woody Allen's best. The ending is perfect.

Deathtrap - Twisty & turny. It'll keep you guessing.

Diabolique - So often ripped off, this was completely shocking in its day.

Die Hard - Best. Action. Movie. Ever.

Dog Day Afternoon - Pacino when he could still act.

Dogma - Kevin Smith's best, even with Linda Fiorentino and the Crap Monster.

Elmer Gantry - Burt Lancaster's hair could've won the Oscar alone.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off - A perfectly light, fluffy confection of a movie.

Finding Nemo - Not just for kids. This is powerfully moving as well as funny.

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - Marilyn Monroe saves the day with reasoning. How's that?

Get Shorty - A great film for anyone who loves movies.

Groundhog Day - So underrated in its time, thankfully is better appreciated now.

Hairspray (1988 & 2007) - Both wonderful in their own right. It's Madison time!

Harvey - Classic Jimmy Stewart.

Heathers - Dated, but still awesome.

High & Low - A Kirosawa film? Yep.

Hot Fuzz - Another classic send up from Simon Pegg.

How to Succeed in Business… - VERY dated, but so freakin' cute!

In America - Such a beautiful film. Bring your hankie!

In Cold Blood - Bleak, stark, and cold.

Inside Man - Really great caper movie.

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang - Great tongue in cheek action flick.

Limbo - The Great John Sayles sticks to his guns and gives a move which lives up to its name.

Little Shop of Horrors - An early indication that musicals were not finished - despite "Annie"'s best efforts.

Lost in Translation - Not for everyone, but a beautiful piece about two people forming a connection.

Malcolm X - Spike Lee's best.

Michael Clayton - Slow and somber, George Clooney is amazing in this.

Midnight Run - Often overlooked, this film is too funny and quite sweet.

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town - Adorable. Just adorable.

Notorious - My favorite Hitchcock.

O Brother, Where Art Thou? - Endlessly quotable.

Ocean’s 11 - Groovy!

Open Water - a great low budget "horror" film. uncompromising.

Paper Moon - Beautiful black & white film with tremendous performances.

Parenthood - Another forgotten gem.

Passion of Joan of Arc - Amazing what was accomplished in its day.

Persepolis - Gorgeous animation and an important story for all to see.

Pinnochio - Not one of Disney's "princess" movies, so it's often forgotten how amazing this is.

Primary Colors - A great commentary on politics.

Reversal of Fortune - Great scripting and direction with a great "who dunnit" story.

Run Lola Run - Frenetic and fun.

Running on Empty - A small film about 60's radicals raising a family on the lam.

Say Anything - Cameron Crowe's best.

Seabiscuit - Dismissed as not as good as the book, this is quite wonderful.

Sense & Sensibility - There are no words. If you haven't seen it, do it now!

Shall We Dance? (1996/ Japanese) - Adorable & touching.

Shallow Grave - Another great twisty, turny one that keeps you guessing.

Shaun of the Dead - Great Zombie send up.

Sleeping Beauty - Disney goes all hip and cinematic.

Snatch - Hip and fun comic caper movie.

Stagecoach - Yes, it's John Wayne, but it's also good.... I was surprised, too!

Swing Time - My favorite Astaire & Rogers picture.

Talented Mr. Ripley - So underrated in its time. A beautifully shot and crafted film with one of Matt Damon's best performances.

The African Queen - Charming, funny & filled with adventure.

The Apartment - Sad & sweet, romantic & funny. This film has it all!

The Bicycle Thief - A classic.

The Bishop’s Wife - Simply oozing charm. Stay far away from the remake.

The Bourne Trilogy - Action flicks don't get any smarter or better shot.

The Butcher Boy - Little-seen Neil Jordan film. Not for everyone, though.

The Great Dictator - A Charlie Chaplin talkie about World War II.

The Great Escape - The perfect Sunday Afternoon movie.

The Lady Eve - One of my very favorites. Henry Fonda & Barbara Stanwyck heat things up.

The Lives of Others - A quiet little film that sticks with you.

The Manchurian Candidate - The original please. Really ground-breaking - even watching it now.

The Professional - As amazing as everyone says.

The Pursuit of Happyness - Surprisingly mature film. It makes me cry buckets.

The Red Violin - Completely unique film whose main character is a musical instrument.

The Return of the Seacaucus 7 - John Sayles first film and just a good time.

The "Road" Pictures - Hope & Crosby were great together. See at least one.

This is Spinal Tap - What's wrong with being sexy?

Times of Harvey Milk - Great, affecting documentary about the slain activist.

Tootsie - Possibly the funniest film ever.

Truly, Madly, Deeply - Great romantic comedy with Alan Rickman.

United 93 - Not one everyone is rushing to see, but extremely well crafted.

Visions of Light - Everyone who loves movies should appreciate this documentary on cinematographers.

Wag the Dog - Robert DeNiro's best performance? I think so.

Waking Ned Devine - Movies don't get much more adorable.

Wallace & Grommit: The Curse of the Wererabbit - a towering achievement in stop-motion animation.

Whale Rider- A tremendous performance by Keisha Castle Hughes makes this a must watch.

White Heat - Made it Ma, top of the world!

Zelig - Black & White Woody Allen. A great pre-cursor to Forrest Gump.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 10

Note from Gianna: The 10th and final installment of Movies You Should See! Hopefully, this has provided people with some new titles to check out or reminded them of forgotten gems they can check out again. I think I’ve finally sent a list of films that Jami has seen all of. Happy viewing.

Jami says: At last! I truly have seen every film listed here! - And heartly recommend all of them, too! - And just in the nick of time!
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Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964, Dir: Jaques Demy, Wr: Jaques Demy, Music: Michel Legrand)-Jaques Demy’s and Michel Legrand’s lovely French musical is a wonderful lost gem. From its gorgeous score to its candy-colored art design it is a piece of European cinema that is worth discovering.

The Up Series (7 up, 7 plus 7, 21 up, 28 up, 35 up, 42 up and 49 up) (1964, 1970, 1977, 1984, 1991, 1998, 2005- Dir: Paul Almond/ 7 up Michael Apted/7 plus 7 and on)-What started out as a couple of BBC television specials has transformed into one of the most intriguing pieces of cinema ever. Using the phrase ‘Give me the child at seven and I’ll give you the man’ as its inspiration, a film crew assembled British school children from every class system. Since then every seven years they have revisited these children to see where their lives are. Fascinating, touching and heartbreaking; it will be interesting to see how long this series continues. And yes, even though I lumped them all together-they count as seven films.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988, Dir: Robert Zemeckis, Wr: Jeffrey Price)-I am constantly flabbergasted as to why this film does not get more adulation. Maybe because it was a summer blockbuster, maybe because its plot is rooted in animation which tends to be easily dismissed; or maybe people simply don’t get it. Every time I re-watch this film I am continually impressed with the skill and technique that this film demands. It should also be noted that the animation in this film, including the great opening sequence were all directed by Richard Williams of the previously mentioned Thief and the Cobbler.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf (1966, Dir: Mike Nichols, Wr: Ernest Lehman)-Mike Nichols directing debut and boy is it strong. Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor bring a rawness to Edward Albee’s wonderful classic stage play. Probably Taylor’s best film performance ever.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 9

OK - So cleary, I'm not meant to see more than 7 out of each list. Jeez!
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Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993 Dir: Steve Zaillian, Wr: Steve Zaillian)-Based on the true story of a young chess prodigy, Searching for Bobby Fischer is beautiful in its simple execution. Whereas most family-aimed films tend to go down a saccharine path, Bobby Fischer roots itself in pure honest storytelling.

Send Me No Flowers (1964 Dir: Norman Jewison, Wr: Julius J. Epstein)-The third and final film Rock Hudson and Doris Day made together. All their films are wonderful, but this one where Hudson plays a hypochondriac who believes he is dying, is adorable.


Sophie’s Choice (1982 Dir: Alan J. Pakula, Wr: Alan J. Pakula)-Of all the amazing performances Streep has turned in, nothing is better than this particular role. Excellent performances by Kevin Kline and Peter MacNicol enhance this film that always packs an emotional wallop.

Thief and the Cobbler (1993 Dir: Richard Williams, Wr: Richard Williams & Margaret French)-Veteran animator Richard Williams spent over 30 years in production making this film, only to have it taken away from him and re-edited at the eleventh hour. The official DVD release only gives you glimpses of the absolutely stellar and intricate animation that was produced. To fully enjoy Williams original intent, a restored work print is available for viewing on YouTube in 11 ten-minute spots.

Time Bandits (1981, Dir: Terry Gilliam, Wr: Terry Gilliam & Michael Palin) -Terry Gilliam’s wonderful time-traveling romp is pure joy to watch. A young boy meets up with a band of little people who have stolen a map to the universe and are using it to rob people throughout time. Time Bandits also features some great cameos by John Cleese as Robin Hood, Ian Holm as Napoleon, Sean Connery as Agamemnon and Michael Palin and Shelley Duvall as a pair of doomed lovers.

Touching the Void (2003, Dir: Kevin MacDonald)-One of the most thrilling documentaries I’ve seen. The harrowing true story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, two mountain climbers who encounter un-fathomable disaster and tragedy on their descent. The story will have you on the edge of your seat, despite the fact you know how it will all turn out.

Tucker: The Man and His Dream (1988, Dir: Francis Ford Coppola, Wr: Arnold Shulman & David Seidler)-Francis Ford Coppola’s forgotten gem about the ill-fated Tucker automobile. Jeff Bridges plays Preston Tucker a man who designed a car so good that the auto-industry turned around and killed his car before it even went into mas production. A slick-looking piece of filmmaking, that makes wonderful use of creative edits.

Twice Upon a Time (1983 Dir: John Korty & Charles Swenson, Wr: Bill Couterie)-An adorable, yet snarky, animated tale about a dastardly plot to give the wonderful never-ending nightmares. Twice Upon a Time uses an animation technique called Lumage, a process of using cut out pieces of plastic on a lighted table. The effect is stunning and unique animation.

Valley of the Dolls (1967 Dir: Mark Robson, Wr: Helen Deutsch)-One of the grand dames of Bad-Movies-We-Love cinema. Over the top and ridiculous, it has to be seen to be believed.



Vanishing (1988 Dir: George Sluizer, Wr: Tim Krabbe)-A wonderful mystery/suspense film worthy of Hitchcock. The ending of this film sticks with me to this day. If you search it out, make sure you are getting the original Dutch film and not the horrendous remake.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 8

Newman! I'm still stuck at 7 for 10! Maybe I can eventually go 10 for 10 in one of the last two installments!

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Peeping Tom(1960, Dir: Michael Powell, Wr: Leo Marks)-Another great forefather of the modern horror slasher flick. Michael Powell’s unnerving film about a serial killer who films his victims as they are being killed. Not appreciated in its time, Peeping Tom effectively killed Powell’s career.

Picnic at Hanging Rock(1975, Dir: Peter Weir, Wr. Cliff Green)-The story of several girls who simply vanish on a school trip to Hanging Rock. Unlike most American films, no answers are given to the fate of the girls. Haunting and lyrical, a fantastic example of how great Australian cinema truly is.

Purple Rose of Cairo(1985, Dir: Woody Allen, Wr: Woody Allen)-One of my all-time favorite Woody Allen flicks. Mia Farrow plays a depression era housewife obsessed with movies. After numerous repeated viewings of one film, the main character leaves the screen to be with Farrow. Sweet, charming and very funny. (One of Jami's Top 100 of all time!)

The Red Shoes(1948, Dir: Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger, Wr: Emeric Pressburger)-Powell and Pressburger’s wonderful film about life in the ballet. Interesting to note that the Red Shoes ballet sequence was an inspiration for Martin Scorsese in shooting the boxing sequences in Raging Bull.

Repulsion (1965, Dir: Roman Polanski, Wr: Roman Polanski & Gerard Brach)-Polanski’s gripping and disturbing portrait of a young sexually repressed woman descent into madness.

Richard III (1995 Dir: Richard Loncraine, Wr: Ian McKellan)-This broke down some of my Shakespeare snobbery. I personally hate ‘concept’ Shakespeare and get fits watching American actors not ‘get’ how to act it. This film adaptation of Ian McKellan’s wonderful stage production is fabulous! Setting Richard III in a pseudo-Nazi type setting is brilliant and the cast which includes Robert Downey Jr., Annette Benning, Jim Broadbent and Kristen Scott Thomas are fantastic.

The Right Stuff (1983, Dir: Phillip Kaufman, Wr: Phillip Kaufman)-I have no idea why this excellent film of the early days of the Mercury Space program, continually get overlooked when people craft ‘Must See’ lists. Based on Tom Wolfe’s excellent novel of the same name, The Right Stuff has it all, great story, great direction and a superb cast. If you haven’t seen this film yet, rent it today! (One of Jami's Top 10 of all time!)

River’s Edge (1986, Dir: Tim Hunter, Neal Jimenez)-Based on a disturbing true story of a teenager who kills his girlfriend and then brings their friends over to view the body. An interesting and honest depiction of the apathy and disconnect of the American teenager.

Rope (1948, Dir: Alfred Hitchcok, Wr: Hume Cronyn)-A lesser know Hitchcock, interesting in that it was shot with only 15 edits. Based very loosely on the Leopold and Loeb murder, it features a great Jimmy Stewart speech at the end.

Santa Sangre (1989, Dir: Alejandro Jodorowsky, Wr: Alejandro Jodorowsky & Roberto Leoni)-Legendary cult filmmaker Jodorowsky spins a creepy and surrealistic tale of a young man who essentially becomes arms for his limbless mother. Has to be seen to be believed.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 7

Hope you are all getting some good rental ideas from this - I know I am (except for those pesky anime choices. Uck!) I'm at 7 for 10 again... I seem to have plateaued!

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Millions (2004, Dir: Danny Boyle, Wr: Frank Cottrell Boyce)-Danny Boyle is fast becoming one of my new favorite directors, mainly because he displays such a range in the subjects he chooses. Concerning a little boy obsessed with saints, who literally has a bag of money dropped in his lap, is sweet and charming. One would never guess that it was from the same director who brought us Trainspotting and 28 Days Later (Both awesome flicks as well)

Much Ado About Nothing (1993, Dir: Kenneth Branaugh, Wr: Kenneth Branaugh)-Yes, there are countless Shakespeare films out there, all well done, but there’s something so enjoyable and exuberant about this particular film. From beginning to end, it’s pure joy.

My Dinner With Andre (1981, Dir: Louis Malle, Wr: Andre Gregory & Wallace Shawn)-Who would have thought that filming a dinner conversation between two friends would be so captivating. Of course when the friends are Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory and the dinner topics consist of experimental theater and the meaning of life, you’re bound to be mesmerized.

My Man Godfrey (1936, Dir: Gregory La Cava, Wr: Morrie Ryskind)-A lovely romantic comedy, featuring yet another forgotten actress Carole Lombard. Lombard was a fantastic comedienne and Godfrey is one of her best films. Had she lived to make more films, she’d probably be better remembered.

My Neighbor Tortoro (1988, Dir: Hayao Miyazaki, Wr: Hayao Miyazaki)-This charming little film from the Japan’s Master Animator Hayao Miyazaki is so sweet and touching. Recently moved to a new home and dealing with their mother’s ailing health, two young girls find totoros who help them cope with life. Yet another unusual story choice for an animated flim, it is a glorious little film.

Naked (1993, Dir: Mike Leigh, Wr: Mike Leigh)-Mike Leigh’s dark a disturbing tale about a drifter who is able to charm his way into almost anything. Leigh’s process of improvising the scenes with the actors creates startling realism.

Near Dark (1987, Dir: Kathryn Bigelow, Wr: Kathryn Bigelow & Erik Red)-Quite simply, one of the best vampire flicks ever.

One, Two, Three (1961, Dir: Billy Wilder, Wr: I.A.L. Diamond & Billy Wilder)-Cagney’s second to last film (his last was Ragtime-but we won’t go there), a hysterical film that displays how wonderful a comic actor Cagney was. Interesting side-note that this film achieved Rocky Horror cult-like status in Germany.

Overnight (2003, Dir: Tony Montana & Brian Mark Smith)-Every aspiring filmmaker should watch this film as a cautionary tale of how to 86 your career before you even start.

Patch of Blue (1965, Dir: Guy Green, Wr: Guy Green)-Elizabeth Hartman stars as an abused young women, who lost her sight in early childhood. She is befriended by Sydney Poitier who shows her that she is not as trapped as she may think. Obviously given the time it was shot, they really couldn’t go much futher than friendship with this couple. However, a romance would have ruined what it a lovely story of friendship and understanding of two people.

Guest olumnist: Gianna's Top 100 Films Every Film Buff Should See Pt. 6

Here you go - I'm still at 7 for 10!

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Ju-on(2002, Dir: Takashi Shimizu, Wr: Takashi Shimizu)-One of the scariest flicks I’ve seen in the last decade or so; a sublimely creepy ghost story that gets its chills from sound effects and lighting. Awesome!

King of Comedy (1982, Dir: Martin Scorsese, Wr: Paul D. Zimmerman)-Scorsese’s excellent examination of our culture’s obsessession with fame. Robert DeNiro’s performance as Rupert Pupkin is humorous, touching and deeply disturbing.

Kiss Me Kate (1953 Dir: George Sidney, Wr: Dorothy Kingsely)-Another one of the interesting uses of 3D in the 50’s. A great musical in it’s own right, it also features a fantastic dance sequence with Bob Fosse and Carol Haney that explodes off the screen.

Kiss of the Spiderwoman (1985, Dir: Hector Babenco, Wr: Leonard Schrader)-An evocative film of an unlikely friendship between two radically different men. Tour-de-Force performances by two fantastic actors.

Longtime Companion (1990, Dir: Norman Rene, Wr: Craig Lucas)-One of the first films to examine the first decade of the AIDS crisis, it follows the lives of several gay couples from the early outbreaks through to the early 90’s.

Manhunter (1986, Dir: Michael Mann, Wr: Michael Mann)-Before Silence of the Lambs, there was Manhunter, Michael Mann’s much overlooked adaptation of Red Dragon. Gritty and low-budget, Brian Cox delivers a more understated and restrained Hannibal Lector.

Marat/Sade (1967, Dir: Peter Brook, Wr: Adrian Mitchell & Geoffrey Skelton)-An almost literal screen translation of Brook’s fantastic stage production; it has an unusual quality of being highly theatrical and amazingly filmic at the same time.

Metropolis (1927, Dir: Fritz Lang, Wr: Thea von Harbou)-For me Metropolis remains one of the most amazing accomplishments of early cinema. The art direction, effects and acting are quite accomplished and stunning. Bridgette Helms’s portrayal of the robot is one of the most disturbing and creepy performances caught on film.

Metropolitain (1990, Dir: Whit Stillman, Wr: Whit Stillman)-This mid 90’s gem about about over-privileged New Yorkers in the winter deb season is completely charming. Stillman’s strongest film, it features some of the most well-thought out characters put to screen.

Mildred Pierce (1945, Dir: Michael Curtiz, Wr: Randal MacDougall)-It’s a little sad that for most people the mention of Joan Crawford brings up images of Faye Dunaway’s over-the-top portrayal of her, for she really was an accomplished actress. Mildred Pierce is soapy and melodramatic, but Crawford’s portrayal of the mother-who-will-do-anything-for-her-daughter is a relatively anchored and understated performance for its time.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 5

Here's the next10 film recommendations, we're at the half-way point! I'm 7 for 10 again and this list has another of my all-time favorites: Holiday!

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Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001, Dir: John Cameron Mitchell, Wr: John Cameron Mitchell & Steven Trask) A rock musical, that actually features a great rock score. Cameron Mitchell’s tale of a young East German man’s struggle to find his identity after a botched sex-change operation, is humorous, touching and uplifting.

His Girl Friday (1940, Dir: Howard Hawks, Wr: Charles Lederer)-The great Roslind Russel in yet another amazing comic performance. One of the countless versions of the Front Page-this is my favorite.

Holiday (1938, Dir: George Cuckor, Wr: Donald Ogden Stewart)-Yes, everyone knows Bringing Up Baby and The Philadelphia Story, but I am at a loss as to why this exquisitely charming Hepburn & Grant film is completely neglected.

Hope and Glory (1987, Dir: John Boorman, Wr: John Boorman)-John Boorman’s semi-autobiographical film of early World War II England. Hope and Glory illustrates that even amidst the horrors of wartime, children can find the most joyous aspects of absolute destruction.

House of Games (1987, Dir: David Mamet, Wr: David Mamet & Johnathan Katz)-A thoroughly absorbing mystery/suspense flick. Though you have to endure the always wooden Lindsay Crouse (what can you say, she was married to Mamet at the time) House of Games is a tightly crafted film that keeps you mesmerized until the very end.

The Hudsucker Proxy (1994 Dir: Joel Cohen, Wr: Joel & Ethan Cohen)-Joel & Ethan’s Cohen’s wonderful comedy about the invention of the Hula Hoop. Fantastic performances by Tim Robbins, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Paul Newman, superb art direction and cameo’s from Bruce Campbell and Steve Buscemi make for some fun viewing.

Imitation of Life (1959, Dir: Douglas Sirk, Wr: Eleanor Griffin & Alan S)-Douglas Sirk is too often dismissed as a director. True all his films are over-the-top, highly melodramatic and filled with Bad-Movie-We-Love moments. Still, he is a director that made every effort to push the envelop in tight 50’s production code days. Imitation of Life, with its themes of identity of race and prejudice, is one of my favorites.

Inside Moves (1980, Dir: Richard Donner, Wr: Valerie Curtin)-A totally forgotten film from the early eighties, about patrons of a local bar that caters to the handicapped. Instead of being a hit-you-over-the-head ‘See what we can do’ type of movie; Inside Moves is a small film with a sweet and human tone.

Iron Giant (1999, Dir: Brad Bird, Wr: Tim McCanlies)-Brad Bird’s wonderful animated film is stunning to watch. Utilizing a great 50’s look, this charming and entertaining film is a must for any film library.

Island of Lost Souls (1932, Dir: Erle C. Kenton, Wr: Waldemar Young)-One of the earliest and best adaptations of The Island of Dr. Moreau-there is nothing creepier or scarier than Charles Laughton.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's Top 100 Movies Every Film Buff Should See, Pt 4

Here's your latest installment... Cool, I'm up to 7 out of 10 this time!
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Dial M for Murder (1954, Dir: Alfred Hitchcock, Wr: Frederick Knott)-Another great Hitchcock film, and the only one of his films that was filmed in 3D. Interesting to watch with that knowledge, as you’d never know it (unlike other 3D films of that era) and it makes you appreciate the cinematography even more.

Dogville (2003, Dir: Lar Von Trier, Wr: Lars Von Trier)-The first of Von Trier’s America trilogy. Filmed on a sound stage with minor set pieces, it features Nicole Kidman as a young woman hiding out in a small town. Serves as an interesting commentary on America’s foreign policy.

East of Eden (1955 Dir: Elia Kazan, Wr: Paul Osborn)-In his short career James Dean shot three pictures: Rebel Without a Cause, Giant and East of Eden. Everyone has seen Rebel and Giant is, well, it’s long and it has Elizabeth Taylor. East of Eden, I feel, captures his best performance.

Ed Wood (1994, Dir: Tim Burton, Wr: Scott Alexander)-Tim Burton’s biography of Ed Wood is just heaven. One of the best Burton/Depp films, its celebration of the mediocre makes it one of the most joyous film bios made.

Eight Men Out (1988, Dir: John Sayles, Wr: John Sayles)-A great sports movie about one of the most infamous scandals in baseball. One of my favorites Sayles’s films.

Grave of the Fireflies (1988, Dir: Isao Takahata, Wr: Isao Takahata) A touching film of children in post Hiroshima Japan. An unusual subject for animated film, it executes the story beautifully.

Grey Gardens (1975, Dir: Albert & David Maysles)-This documentary, about Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edie was shot shorty after they were ordered to clean up their crumbling home Grey Gardens. No voice over narration or commentary and little background info make this an interesting documentary.

Harold and Maude (1971, Dir: Hal Ashby, Wr: Colin Higgins) The ultimate May/December romance, this film has some of the most amusing and equally touching moments I’ve seen. You also can’t beat the wonderful performances and chemistry of Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort.

Heaven Can Wait (1978, Dir: Warren Beatty & Buck Henry, Wr: Elaine May) One of my all time favorite comedies. Warren Beatty is at his most charming and endearing in this film. A stellar supporting cast hits all the marks.

Heavenly Creatures (1994, Dir: Peter Jackson, Wr: Peter Jackson & Fran Walsh) From the opening scene, to the roll of the credits this film grabs you and never lets go. Up until this film, Jackson was mainly known for horror-comedy gore-fests. An incredibly faithful retelling of one of New Zealand’s most shocking crimes, it features the screen debut of Kate Winslet.

Guest Columnist: Gianna's top 100 Films a Film Buff Should see Pt 3

Jami's note: Ok, I guess I never saw the thing about "60 FILMS" in Gianna's previous posts... ooops! Still, who can't use a few more recommendations? Also - out of today's 10, I've seen 6. More respectable, indeed - plus 3 of today's are some of my all-time favorite films. Enjoy!
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Okay, it took me a little while to send the third installment. This was due to the fact that I had only done a list of 60 films, but the titles of the last two installment promised 100. So I went back and assessed some more films and came up with the additional 40. In a way it was a good thing, there were some titles that I had forgotten and there some titles that I had debated on that now got into the cut. I also want to clarify that this is not a ‘Best of’ list or ‘My Favorite’ list. These are films that I feel are worth seeing, but for whatever reason don’t get the same ink that other films do.

The Accidental Tourist (1988, Dir: Lawrence Kasdan, Wr: Frank Galati)-This fantastic adaptation of Anne Tyler’s wonderful novel of the same name, tends to suffer from the inaccurate billing of being a romantic comedy. Though, the film does have numerous light moments, it really is more of an examination of loss and the inability to connect with people.

Alice (1988, Dir: Jan Svankmajer, Wr: Jan Svankmajer)-A completely surreal and disturbing version of Lewis Carrol’s Alice in Wonderland. Czech animator Svankmajer utilizes stop-motion animation to create a unstable and frightening Wonderland.

Allegro Non Troppo (1977, Dir: Bruno Bozzetto, Wr: Bruno Bozzetto & Guido Manlui)- Essentially Italy’s version of Fantasia, it’s a more adult take and features some stunning and heartbreaking animation.

American Movie (1999, Dir: Chris Smith)-Chris Smith’s film of amateur filmmaker Mark Borchardt, is supremely funny. So funny that you almost think it’s a mockumentary - but it’s all true. A fantastic account of one individual who lives in his own world, not always to his own benefit.

Beauty and the Beast (1946. Dir: Jean Cocteau, Wr: Jean Cocteau)-One of the most gorgeous live-action fairy tales put to the screen. Beautiful and haunting cinematography frames this stunning French film.

Before Sunrise (1995. Dir: Richard Linklater, Wr: Richard Linklater & Kim Krizan)-Perfect in its simplicity of story of two young people who meet on a train in Europe and spend the rest of the night talking. Refreshing and honest.

Before Sunset -(2004, Dir: Richard Linklater, Wr: Richard Linklater & Julie Delpy) The sequel to Before Sunrise. This film takes up nine years later, with our twenty-somethings now in their 30’s. One can only hope that Linklater and his two stars-Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, will revisit these characters every 10 years.

Blood for Dracula (1974, Dir: Paul Morrisey, Wr: Paul Morrisey)-Sometimes a movie doesn’t have to be a great or even good film to be a must for viewing. Andy Warhol’s Blood for Dracula is one of those films. Filled with bad acting, copious sex scenes and a rather blah script, there is something joyous is it’s badness. The cherry on the cake is Joe Dallesandro’s Brooklynese dialect amongst the all European cast.

The Changeling (1980, Dir: Peter Medak, Wr: William Gray)-This fantastic ghost story shows that atmosphere and a good creepy story can be as scary as anything. Starring George C. Scott as a recent widower who moves into a house that is occupied by the ghost of a young boy; the film’s non-use of special effects is a rarity in horror.

Cry in the Dark (1988, Dir: Fred Shepisi, Wr: Robert Caswell)-Unfortunately, this film is only known for it’s infamous line ‘The dingo ate my baby!’ However, this excellent Australian offering thoroughly examines how the media manipulates a story, how public obsession clouds truth and how quickly the truth gets lost in the quest for sensationalism.

How to Craft a Perfect Villain

This past month, Entertainment Weekly came out with their list of Best Pop Culture villains. There was the usual collection of good, bad and "huh?" choices but it got me to thinking... what makes a good villain? As with any discussions of villains, my thoughts immediately turn to my gold standard of movie villainy: Hans Gruber. Now old Hans did make EW's list, but not nearly as high as he should have. Why is he my favorite movie villain? The answer is as easy as it is indefinable: He's cool!


I firmly believe the best villains are the ones you love to hate. My villains have to have some style, some panache, and hopefully a slight sense of humor. Take my favorite Disney villains: you've got Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty, who is pure evil - she has a bad ass costume, an evil laugh, hell - she even has horns! Then there's Ursula from The Little Mermaid who has nothing if not presence. If you've created your villain correctly, your audience should be at least half-hoping that they succeed. (Unfortunately, Thomas Harris took this a little far and gave us the extremely ill-conceived Hannibal. Ugh!)


A calm, cool and collected presence helps, too. Other-the-top villainy doesn't work for me. I like Anton Chigurgh a lot better than Jack Torrence. Nurse Ratched... The Operative from Serenity ... Hannibal Lecter... these are people whose feathers don't ruffle easily and it makes them seem downright unbeatable. What more can you want in a villain?


Villains are also best when they don't have overly complicated motivations. Which was scarier, the original "Jaws" or "Jaws 4... this time it's personal" where Jaws' mother went on a revenge rampage? OK, maybe that's not a fair comparison, I mean who likes anything about Jaws 4, but let me ask you this: which is the better Batman villain, the bad ass Joker or Mr. Freeze, who has to be bad in order to save his dying wife? Or the Penguin who was horribly abused and abandoned as a child? The less you know about your villain's back story, the better. I'll take my villains' motives like Nicky Holiday's in The Great Muppet Caper: "Why am I doing this? I'm a villain! It's pure and simple." How can you argue with that?


So here's my advice: Don't work so hard at making your villain scary, or brutal, or "complicated," just make them memorable, stylish, and cool. They may not win, but everyone will be secretly wishing they did!

Guest Columnist: Gianna's top 100 Movies any Film Buff Should See, Pt. 2

Here is the next 10 films on Gianna's list of films recommended for tru film buffs. I've only seen 4 of these 10, but you know - the deck is sort of stacked in Gianna's favor here.
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Commitments (1991, Dir: Alan Parker, Wr: Dick Clement) The Commitments is just one of those perfect little films. From the writing, to casting, to directing everything just clicks. Say it with me now- ‘I’m Black and I’m Proud!’

The Cook, the Thief, His Wife and Her Lover (1989, Dir: Peter Greenway, Wr: Peter Greenway) Highly stylized, but compelling from beginning to end. It’s not a pleasant film to watch by any means, but the ending pays off in a big way.

Crumb (1994 Dir: Terry Zwigoff)-A great documentary about the life and career of comic artist Robert Crumb. Zwigoff examines not just Crumb’s amazing career, but his fully bizarre family as well. It’s fascinating and compelling and stays with you long after you see it.

Dark Crystal (1982, Dir: Jim Henson & Frank Oz, Wr: Jim Henson & David Odell) A thoroughly unappreciated film in its day and even now. The sheer artistry that this film demands is amazing. Though the screenplay is not especially strong, the artistic achievement of the film far out weighs it.

The Devil’s Backbone (2001, Dir: Guillermo del Toro, Wr: Guillermo del Toro)-A great creepy, atmospheric, ghost story. In an age where most Americans equate horror with torture porn, this wonderful gem is superior to anything Eli Roth is vomiting out.

Existenz (1999, Dir: David Cronenberg, Wr: David Cronenberg)-If there’s such a thing as an intellectual popcorn movie, Existenz falls into that category. Essentially written off as an imitator to The Matrix, Existenz delivers a far more satisfying ride. (Jami's note: That's not too hard in my book!)

Eyes Without a Face (1960, Dir: Georges Franju, Wr: Jean Redon, Pierre Boileau)-A completely disturbing horror picture. Considered a precursor to Psycho, Eyes Without a Face has one of the most haunting final scenes I’ve seen put to film.

Fantastic Planet (1960, Dir: Rene Laloux, Wr: Roland Topor)-This French animated Sci-Fi adventure is beautifully animated and completely trippy. One of the early films to make the case that animation is not just for children.

Forbidden Games (1952, Dir: Rene Clement, Wr: Jean Aurenche) An amazing little film about the effects of war and death from a child’s point of view. The film touchingly examines the way children deal with the realities of death and its religious rituals.

Girl Crazy (1943, Dir: Busby Berkley, Wr: Guy Boltan & Jack McGowan) There’s a reason Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland musicals were so damn popular-They’re FREAKIN' ADORABLE! Just about any of their films are fine to watch-I picked this one, because it was the only one that didn’t feature a minstrel show.