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My Place Under the Sun:
Reel To Reel
This is a limited list of the movies that have made me laugh and cry over the years.
- Children of Heaven-Simply, a beautiful story. The children carry this sweet study of a humble existence in Iran. There's nothing complex here, no special effects, no famous actors, but it touched me deeply. Made me remember how close my brother and I were as little children.
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon-While some people just didn't get why this was such a masterpiece, I thought it was a wonderful fantasy that carried me away with its beautiful cinematography; excellent, artistic "fight" scenes; gorgeous scenery; and engaging love story. But I have to admit, I wasn't too happy with the ending--but then again, this isn't Hollywood.
- Dancer in the Dark-A heartbreaking film with Bjork making her acting debut. It's an artsy flick, an amazing story with amazing performance by Bjork.
- Fried Green Tomatoes-Having recently re-read the book, I must include this movie in my list of favorites. Idgy Threadgoode is such a quirky, fun, and interesting character who I wouldn't mind meeting in real life. The movie is sweet and inspiring, with incredible friendships between suprisingly strong and independent women.
- When Harry Met Sally-This is a classic: the story of a clueless man and woman who finally get it right in friendship and love. It's got romance, comedy, and that hilarious fake orgasm scene--how can you not love it?
- Anne of Green Gables-A story for the young and the young of heart. I can't fully describe how much this sweet film touched my heart, or how much it has inspired me as a writer and as a human being. This film and its sequel introduced me to the concept and power of kindred spirits, and it also made me more appreciative of the wonderful people in my life.
- Anything with Wallace and Grommit-witty, humorous, adorable claymation series by the makers of Chicken Run. Crackin' good toast, Grommit!
- Best in Show-One day when I was feeling particularly sorry for myself, S and I caught a doubleheader at the cheap movie theater near our apartment in San Jose. Best in Show came across the scene, and it left me in stitches-and I mean hearty guffaws audible to the entire audience. Who would've thought a dog show could be so much fun?
- Kolya-A washed-out cellist lives his life from one love affair to the next until he finds himself guardian to one of the cutest kids I've ever seen. This movie captures your heart and never lets go.
- Gone with the Wind-though this movie seems to take forever to view, this sweeping saga is one of my favorite movies of all time. The beauty and tragedy of the life of fiesty Scarlett O'Hara during the Civil War is one I will never forget.
- Cinema Paradiso-This visually and emotionally beautiful film tells the story of an Italian boy whose life was forever changed by the man who ran the movie projector in his Sicilian village. And this movie forever changed the way I look at films, and maybe the way I see life too.
- It's a Wonderful Life-one of my favorite holiday movies of all time, both tragic and sweet. I love Jimmy Stewart! If you haven't seen it yet, what are you waiting for? It's a classic!
- A Christmas Story-This is also one of my favorite holiday films, but I love this one for its humor. Nostalgic of the radio days, Ralphie is our wonderfully entertaining narrator of the year where all he wanted for Christmas was a Red Ryder BB gun.
- The Sound of Music-I will openly admit to loving musicals of all kinds, and this is one of my favorites. The story of a nun who is forced to be governess for the huge family of a Naval officer during the rise of the Nazi presence in Austria. A love story, political drama, and a romp through musical "classics." I have watched this film almost every year since I was maybe eight years old. Growing up, I re-enacted the scenes from this romantic story a multitude of times. Admit it, didn't you kind of want to be Leisl too?
- Fiddler on the Roof-Another musical: Tells the tale of a family in a Jewish community in Russia as they struggle with the challenges life brings. Beautiful songs and the tender story of a man watching his children grow up in a changing world right before his eyes. Tradition!...
- Indiana Jones Trilogy-okay, so this is really a series of films, but I love the campy humor of these adventure films. And I have to say that Harrison Ford is one of my favorite actors, whether he's in action/comedies or in dramas.
- The Princess Bride-this is one of the fairy tales I've never outgrown. I just love this movie! It's got everything-romance, action, comedy and mystery.
YOUR TURN
I'd love to hear about any of your favorite films. Email me a brief review, and I'll add it to my list
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Last updated 08/13/01
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