17. On the Waterfront (1954)
Directed by Elia Kazan
Starring Marlon Brando, Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb, Eva Marie Saint
An incredibly emotionally resonant film, Brando is nothing short of remarkable, full of charisma. Plus a great story and excellent cinematography make this an all-time classic.
Directed by Elia Kazan
Starring Marlon Brando, Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb, Eva Marie Saint
An incredibly emotionally resonant film, Brando is nothing short of remarkable, full of charisma. Plus a great story and excellent cinematography make this an all-time classic.
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Directed by William Wyler
Starring Dana Andrews, Fredric March, Harold Russell
Surprisingly modern and relevant today, yet also a bit like opening a time capsule. This is the closest I'll get to understanding what it was like immediately post-WWII.
Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen
Starring Javier Bardem, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin
Bardem's portrayal as a ruthless killer is hauntingly good. He has such an unnerving presence. The whole atmosphere makes you uncomfortable yet captivated. A brilliant thriller.
Directed by Miloš Forman
Starring F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce, Elizabeth Berridge
A magnificent historical drama, with fart jokes thrown in for good measure. Abraham perfectly embodies Salieri's all-consuming jealousy. The direction is flawless, with great attention to detail.
Directed by Frank Capra
Starring Clark Gable, Claudette Colbert, Walter Connolly
Some gender dynamics are slightly cringe today, but taken with a grain of salt, it's a fun, light, frilly film. It's the prototype of every romantic comedy since then.
Directed by Miloš Forman
Starring Jack Nicholson, Brad Dourif, Louise Fletcher
Nicholson is great, but it's Fletcher's portrayal as Nurse Ratched that elevates the film. She masterfully captures the antipathy and subtle menace of the character.
Directed by Christopher Nolan
Starring Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Robert Downey Jr.
Who would have guessed a 3-hour biopic about a nuclear physicist would be so fascinating? Fast-paced, strategic cinematography, and phenomenal score give the film an unrelenting intensity.