Finesse's ALL AROUND MOVIES

TWENTY BUCKS (,)

A long list of well-known actors getting and spending the same $20 bill. This film is not for everybody, by any means. Despite this film being #1 on my list, I'm only giving this film 4 stars because it's not universally entertaining, nor does it have a high production quality. But if you're looking for a good comedy with a bit of wit and crudeness, and if you can find it, this one will probably make you laugh, make you think, and will generally entertain you with its absurdity.



THE MATRIX (Wachowski Brothers, 1999)

Innovative computer effects, a mind-bending story, and a well-developed script. If you like to think and/or don't mind sci-fi, you have to watch this. You probably don't need me to tell you how good this movie is as it was hard to miss when it was released. If you did miss it, though, catch up! Even non-sci-fi fans have been pondering the true nature of the Matrix.



OCTOBER SKY (,)

One of the best true family films that's been released. Just a wonderful film for everyone: not too deep, but with enough meaningful content to keep anyone over the age of 7 interested. This true story makes one heck of a feel-good movie. I've recommended it often and always gotten incredible feedback. Rent it today and watch it with the kids/parents.



THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (Frank Darabont, year)

Well-written, well directed, and well-acted. One of the best all-around movies ever made. Everybody loves this movie. It's a bit more sophisticated and dark than most films, but it doesn't alienate any viewers. Although I'm not entirely comfortable with some of the content and character traits in this prison film, the way it deals with hope and friendship is inspirational.



THE SPANISH PRISONER (David Mamet, )

Probably the best mystery/intrigue thriller I've ever seen. Great dialogue by David Mamet; wonderful performance by Steve Martin. Did you figure out the ending to The Usual Suspects? Well, this one's almost guaranteed to keep you guessing. You'll flip-flop your take on the characters several times before it's over. This is the first movie I've ever wanted to rewind and replay as soon as it was over.



DEAD POETS SOCIETY (Peter Weir, year)

Standard fare for anyone who has a passion for poetic verse. Robin Williams and a troupe of young actors give memorable performances. This is perhaps the most non-romantic emotional film there is out there---an original take on the age-old story of a young man facing the world for the first time.



CHILDREN OF HEAVEN (Bacheha-Yeaseman) (,)

Majid Majidi's 1999 Oscar nominee for Best Foreign Lanugage Film--this Iranian film is a heartwrending story of poverty from a child's perspective. If you don't mind foreign films, you should definitely see this one. This movie makes me cry every time I watch it. The writing and acting so purely conveys the emotional content that it's hard not to get caught up.



WIDE AWAKE (M. Night Shyalaman,)

An adorable film that touches the heart and lifts the spirit. For people who aren't aren't opposed to films with religious content. A pre-Sixth Sense film by M. Night Shyamalan, Wide Awake tells the story of a boy on a mission to find God to make sure his grandfather is ok. That should tell you enough. This is the only movie that made me cry in the theater. Everyone I've recommended it to has fallen in love with it.



SEARCHING FOR BOBBY FISHER (Steven Zaillian,)

This film is not just about chess; it's a great story that follows a boy trying to figure out how his extraordinary talent fits into his ordinary life. This film has some of the best single shots I have ever seen, with such detail in the cinematography. Another great family film for everybody to watch, enjoy, and perhaps become a be made a bit of a better person.



CLUE (,)

One of the most stylized comedies ever made. Perfect cast, perfect timing, perfect blend of humor and intensity. This one doesn't quite hit the mark for everyone, but if you enjoy puns and humor with a bit more wit than most movies employ, try this one out. Personally, I think this is the best pure comedy ever made.

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