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Top10nerScore80.675 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Kiyoshi Kurosawa
WRITERS: Kiyoshi Kurosawa
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tokushô Kikumura
STARRING: Koji Yakusho, Masato Hagiwara, Tsuyoshi Ujiki
GENRE: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Police Procedural, Crime, Psychological Horror
A wave of gruesome murders is sweeping Tokyo. The only connection is a bloody X carved into the neck of each of the victims. In each case, the murderer is found near the victim and remembers nothing of the crime. Detective Takabe and psychologist Sakuma are called in to figure out the connection, but their investigation goes nowhere…
Cure is an enigmatic and unsettling exploration of the human psyche. Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s expertly crafted thriller keeps audiences captivated with its eerie atmosphere and profound examination of the blurred lines between sanity and malevolence, leaving a lasting impact.
Top10nerScore80.730 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Lasseter
WRITERS: Andrew Stanton, Rita Hsiao, Doug Chamberlin, Chris Webb
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sharon Calahan
STARRING: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Kelsey Grammer, Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger
GENRE: Computer Animation, Family, Adventure, Comedy, Low Fantasy
Andy heads off to Cowboy Camp, leaving his toys to their own devices. Things shift into high gear when an obsessive toy collector named Al McWhiggen, owner of Al’s Toy Barn kidnaps Woody. Andy’s toys mount a daring rescue mission, Buzz Lightyear meets his match and Woody has to decide where he and his heart truly belong.
Toy Story 2 is a remarkable cinematic achievement, solidifying Pixar’s reputation for exceptional storytelling and cutting-edge animation. Its seamless blend of humor, heart, and nostalgia captivates audiences of all ages, making it an enduring classic in the world of animated films.
Top10nerScore80.942 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Tim Burton
WRITERS: Tim Burton, Caroline Thompson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Stefan Czapsky
STARRING: Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Vincent Price, Dianne Wiest, Alan Arkin, Anthony Michael Hall, Kathy Baker
GENRE: Drama, Low Fantasy, Fairy Tale, Romance, Gothic
A small suburban town receives a visit from a castaway unfinished science experiment named Edward.
Edward Scissorhands enchants with its whimsical yet poignant storytelling, blending Tim Burton’s signature dark charm with Johnny Depp’s unforgettable performance. It seamlessly juxtaposes suburbia and the surreal, creating an enduring modern fairy tale.
Top10nerScore81.047 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Walter Salles
WRITERS: Walter Salles, Marcos Bernstein, João Emanuel Carneiro
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Walter Carvalho
STARRING: Fernanda Montenegro, Marília Pêra, Vinícius de Oliveira, Othon Bastos
GENRE: Drama, Road Movie
An emotive journey of a former school teacher, who writes letters for illiterate people, and a young boy, whose mother has just died, as they search for the father he never knew.
Central Station is an exceptional road movie that embarks on a cinematic journey, resonating with heartfelt performances and a captivating narrative. Its immersive storytelling and rich character development elevate it as an enduring classic in world cinema.
Top10nerScore81.075 / 100
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DIRECTOR: David Lynch
WRITERS: David Lynch, Barry Gifford
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Peter Deming
STARRING: Bill Pullman, Patricia Arquette, Balthazar Getty
GENRE: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Surrealism, Neo-Noir
A tormented jazz musician finds himself lost in an enigmatic story involving murder, surveillance, gangsters, doppelgangers, and an impossible transformation inside a prison cell.
Lost Highway has consistently intrigued and baffled audiences with its enigmatic storytelling and mesmerizing visuals. Lynch’s directorial prowess shines through, leaving viewers in awe of its surreal, mind-bending narrative and haunting atmosphere.
Top10nerScore81.460 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Robert Altman
WRITERS: Robert Altman, Frank Barhydt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Walt Lloyd
STARRING: Julianne Moore, Andie MacDowell, Tim Robbins, Robert Downey Jr., Fred Ward, Anne Archer, Bruce Davison, Matthew Modine, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Chris Penn, Lili Taylor, Madeleine Stowe, Lily Tomlin, Tom Waits, Annie Ross, Jack Lemmon, Lori Singer, Peter Gallagher, Frances McDormand
GENRE: Drama, Slice of Life, Hyperlink Cinema
The day-to-day lives of several suburban Los Angeles residents.
Short Cuts deftly intertwines lives, adapting Raymond Carver’s stories with an ensemble cast delivering nuanced performances. The innovative narrative and keen social observations make it a compelling exploration of the complexity within seemingly ordinary lives.
Top10nerScore81.520 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Chen Kaige
WRITERS: Lu Wei, Lilian Lee
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gu Changwei, Zhao Faquan
STARRING: Leslie Cheung, Zhang Fengyi, Gong Li
GENRE: Period Drama, Romance, Melodrama, LGBTQ+, Fifth Generation
Abandoned by his prostitute mother in 1920, Douzi was raised by a theater troupe. There he meets Shitou and over the following years the two develop an act entitled “Farewell My Concubine” that brings them fame and fortune. When Shitou marries Juxian, Douzi becomes jealous, the beginnings of the acting duo’s explosive breakup and tragic fall take root.
Farewell My Concubine delicately intertwines love and tragedy amidst China’s cultural upheaval. Its poignant storytelling, exquisite cinematography, and powerful performances by Leslie Cheung and Gong Li make it an unforgettable cinematic journey.
Top10nerScore81.553 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wes Anderson
WRITERS: Owen Wilson, Wes Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert D. Yeoman
STARRING: Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Olivia Williams
GENRE: Comedy, Coming-of-Age, Drama
When a beautiful first-grade teacher arrives at a prep school, she soon attracts the attention of an ambitious teenager named Max, who quickly falls in love with her. Max turns to the father of two of his schoolmates for advice on how to woo the teacher. However, the situation soon gets complicated when Max’s new friend becomes involved with her, setting the two pals against one another in a war for her attention.
Rushmore is a cinematic triumph, seamlessly blending Wes Anderson’s distinct visual style with a nuanced exploration of adolescence and ambition. The film’s witty script cements its status as a cult classic, celebrated for its unique narrative and impeccable attention to detail.
Top10nerScore81.554 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Henry Selick
WRITERS: Tim Burton, Caroline Thompson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Pete Kozachik
STARRING: Chris Sarandon, Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, William Hickey
GENRE: Musical, Christmas, Fantasy, Puppet Animation, Halloween
Tired of scaring humans every October 31 with the same old bag of tricks, Jack Skellington, the spindly king of Halloween Town, kidnaps Santa Claus and plans to deliver shrunken heads and other ghoulish gifts to children on Christmas morning. But as Christmas approaches, Jack’s rag-doll girlfriend, Sally, tries to foil his misguided plans.
A fantastical fusion of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer, The Nightmare Before Christmas enchants with its hauntingly beautiful stop-motion, whimsical characters, and toe-tapping score. A delightful ode to embracing uniqueness and finding joy in the unexpected.
Top10nerScore81.802 / 100
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DIRECTOR: David Lynch
WRITERS: John Roach, Mary Sweeney
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Freddie Francis
STARRING: Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Harry Dean Stanton, Jane Galloway Heitz
GENRE: Road Movie, Drama, Biopic
A retired farmer and widower in his 70s, Alvin Straight learns one day that his distant brother Lyle has suffered a stroke and may not recover. Alvin is determined to make things right with Lyle while he still can, but his brother lives in Wisconsin, while Alvin is stuck in Iowa with no car and no driver’s license. Then he hits on the idea of making the trip on his old lawnmower, thus beginning a picturesque and at times deeply spiritual odyssey.
The Straight Story navigates the simplicity of rural America with profound storytelling and remarkable performances. Lynch’s departure from surrealism showcases a heartfelt journey, meticulously capturing the essence of humanity in its purest form.
Top10nerScore81.892 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Tim Burton
WRITERS: Scott Alexander, Larry Karaszewski
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Stefan Czapsky
STARRING: Johnny Depp, Martin Landau, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jeffrey Jones
GENRE: Biopic, Comedy
The mostly true story of the legendary “worst director of all time”, who, with the help of his strange friends, filmed countless B-movies without ever becoming famous or successful.
Burton’s Ed Wood is a quirky, heartfelt tribute to the eccentric filmmaker. Johnny Depp’s portrayal is magnetic, capturing Wood’s infectious passion. A delightful blend of humor and sincerity, it celebrates the beauty of embracing one’s unique vision.
Top10nerScore81.919 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Spike Lee
WRITERS: Spike Lee, Arnold Perl
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ernest R. Dickerson
STARRING: Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Delroy Lindo, Albert Hall
GENRE: Biopic, Political Drama
A tribute to the controversial black activist and leader of the struggle for black liberation. He hit bottom during his imprisonment in the ’50s, he became a Black Muslim and then a leader in the Nation of Islam. His assassination in 1965 left a legacy of self-determination and racial pride.
Spike Lee’s Malcolm X electrifies with Washington’s magnetic performance, capturing the essence of a pivotal figure in American history. Lee’s bold direction and the film’s poignant narrative create an unforgettable cinematic experience, inspiring reflection and dialogue.
Top10nerScore82.114 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Frank Darabont
WRITERS: Frank Darabont
CINEMATOGRAPHY: David Tattersall
STARRING: Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, David Morse, Barry Pepper, Bonnie Hunt, James Cromwell
GENRE: Prison Film, Drama, Low Fantasy
A supernatural tale set on death row in a Southern prison, where gentle giant John Coffey possesses the mysterious power to heal people’s ailments. When the cell block’s head guard, Paul Edgecomb, recognizes Coffey’s miraculous gift, he tries desperately to help stave off the condemned man’s execution.
The Green Mile is a cinematic symphony of humanity, weaving an intricate tapestry of compassion, redemption, and the inexplicable. Its profound storytelling and stellar performances resonate long after the credits roll, a timeless testament to the power of cinema.
Top10nerScore82.197 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Mamoru Oshii
WRITERS: Kazunori Ito
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hisao Shirai
STARRING: Atsuko Tanaka, Akio Otsuka, Koichi Yamadera, Tamio Oki, Iemasa Kayumi
STARRING (ENGLISH): Mimi Woods, Richard Epcar, Christopher Joyce, William Frederick Knight, Tom Wyner
GENRE: Cyberpunk, Anime, Tech-Noir, Artificial Intelligence
In the year 2029, the barriers of our world have been broken down by the net and by cybernetics, but this brings new vulnerability to humans in the form of brain-hacking. When a highly-wanted hacker known as ‘The Puppetmaster’ begins involving them in politics, Section 9, a group of cybernetically enhanced cops, are called in to investigate and stop the Puppetmaster.
Ghost in the Shell stands as a pioneering work in the cyberpunk genre, seamlessly blending philosophical exploration with breathtaking animation. Its influence on science fiction and the portrayal of artificial intelligence is evident, offering audiences a captivating experience.
Top10nerScore82.329 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
WRITERS: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Barry Sonnenfeld
STARRING: Gabriel Byrne, Albert Finney, John Turturro, Marcia Gay Harden, Jon Polito, J. E. Freeman
GENRE: Gangster Film, Neo-Noir, Drama, Period Drama
Set in 1929, a political boss and his advisor have a parting of the ways when they both fall for the same woman.
In Miller’s Crossing, the Coen brothers orchestrate a symphony of suspense and style, weaving a labyrinthine tale of loyalty and betrayal. With its stellar performances and evocative noir atmosphere, it’s a cinematic gem that dazzles with every twist and turn.
Top10nerScore82.345 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Terrence Malick
WRITERS: Terrence Malick
CINEMATOGRAPHY: John Toll
STARRING: James Caviezel, Sean Penn, Nick Nolte, Elias Koteas, Ben Chaplin, Dash Mihok, John Cusack, Adrien Brody, Woody Harrelson, John C. Reilly, John Travolta, George Clooney
GENRE: War, Period Drama, Psychological Drama
Based on the graphic novel by James Jones, The Thin Red Line tells the story of a group of men, an Army Rifle company called C-for-Charlie, who change, suffer, and ultimately make essential discoveries about themselves during the fierce World War II battle of Guadalcanal. It follows their journey, from the surprise of an unopposed landing, through the bloody and exhausting battles that follow, to the ultimate departure of those who survived.
A cinematic symphony of visual poetry and emotional depth, The Thin Red Line captures the harrowing beauty of war with haunting imagery and profound introspection. Malick’s visionary direction elevates this war drama to a contemplative meditation on humanity.
Top10nerScore82.387 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
WRITERS: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Roger Deakins
STARRING: John Turturro, John Goodman, Judy Davis
GENRE: Black Comedy, Satire, Psychological Drama
A renowned New York playwright is enticed to California to write for the movies and discovers the hellish truth of Hollywood.
Barton Fink navigates the labyrinth of artistic struggle with The Coens’ signature blend of dark humor and existential depth. Turturro’s mesmerizing portrayal and the film’s surreal atmosphere make it a compelling exploration of creativity’s shadowy corners.
Top10nerScore82.602 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Spike Jonze
WRITERS: Charlie Kaufman
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Lance Acord
STARRING: John Cusack, Cameron Diaz, Catherine Keener, John Malkovich
GENRE: Low Fantasy, Black Comedy, Drama, Postmodernism, Magical Realism
One day at work, unsuccessful puppeteer Craig finds a portal into the head of actor John Malkovich. The portal soon becomes a passion for anybody who enters its mad and controlling world of overtaking another human body.
Being John Malkovich has garnered acclaim for its innovative narrative, seamlessly blending surrealism and wit. Jonze and Kaufman flawlessly bring to life a unique exploration of identity, celebrity, and existentialism, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic storytelling.
Top10nerScore82.688 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Claire Denis
WRITERS: Claire Denis, Herman Melville, Jean-Pol Fargeau
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Agnès Godard
STARRING: Denis Lavant, Michel Subor, Grégoire Colin
GENRE: Psychological Drama
Foreign Legion officer, Galoup, recalls his once glorious life, leading troops in the Gulf of Djibouti. His existence there was happy, strict and regimented, but the arrival of a promising young recruit, Sentain, plants the seeds of jealousy in Galoup’s mind.
Beau Travail delves into the psychological intricacies of military life against Djibouti’s stark backdrop. Lavant’s compelling performance, coupled with Godard’s cinematography, crafts a nuanced portrayal of existential struggle within the confines of strict discipline.
Top10nerScore82.707 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Wong Kar-wai
WRITERS: Wong Kar-wai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christopher Doyle
STARRING: Leon Lai, Michelle Reis, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Charlie Yeung, Karen Mok
GENRE: Romance, Crime, Drama
In this bifurcated crime narrative, a disillusioned hitman attempts to escape from his violent lifestyle against the wishes of his partner, who is infatuated with him, and an eccentric mute repeatedly encounters, then subsequently falls for a depressed woman looking for the prostitute who supposedly stole her ex-boyfriend’s affections.
Top10nerScore83.036 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Tony Kaye
WRITERS: David McKenna
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tony Kaye
STARRING: Edward Norton, Edward Furlong, Avery Brooks, Fairuza Balk, Beverly D’Angelo
GENRE: Drama
Derek Vineyard is paroled after serving 3 years in prison for killing two thugs who tried to break into/steal his truck. Through his brother, Danny Vineyard’s narration, we learn that before going to prison, Derek was a skinhead and the leader of a violent white supremacist gang that committed acts of racial crime throughout L.A. and his actions greatly influenced Danny. Reformed and fresh out of prison, Derek severs contact with the gang and becomes determined to keep Danny from going down the same violent path as he did.
American History X is an incisive exploration of racial tension, fueled by Norton’s powerhouse performance. Its nuanced portrayal of extremism and redemption, coupled with Kaye’s daring vision, cements its status as a culturally significant and enduring piece of cinema.
Top10nerScore83.073 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Takeshi Kitano
WRITERS: Takeshi Kitano
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hideo Yamamoto
STARRING: Takeshi Kitano, Ren Osugi, Kayoko Kishimoto, Susumu Terajima
GENRE: Crime, Drama, Psychological Drama
A police officer leaves the force in the face of harrowing personal and professional difficulties. Spiraling into a depression, he makes questionable decisions.
Fireworks captivates with Kitano’s multifaceted brilliance as director, writer, and actor. Its emotionally charged narrative unfolds with a poetic intensity, while Kitano’s masterful use of visual motifs and storytelling nuances establishes an enduring work in contemporary cinema.
Top10nerScore83.281 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Brad Bird
WRITERS: Brad Bird, Ted Hughes, Tim McCanlies
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Steven Wilzbach
STARRING: Eli Marienthal, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., Vin Diesel, Christopher McDonald, John Mahoney
GENRE: Animation, Family, Science Fiction, Artificial Intelligence
In the small town of Rockwell, Maine in October 1957, a giant metal machine befriends a nine-year-old boy and ultimately finds its humanity by unselfishly saving people from their own fears and prejudices.
In The Iron Giant, Brad Bird crafts a heartwarming tale blending nostalgia, sci-fi, and a powerful anti-violence message. With stunning animation and a poignant story, it resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the power of friendship and empathy.
Top10nerScore83.687 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Abbas Kiarostami
WRITERS: Abbas Kiarostami
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Homayun Payvar
STARRING: Homayoun Ershadi, Abdolhossein Bagheri, Afshin Khorshid Bakhtiari, Safar Ali Moradi
GENRE: Drama, New Iranian Cinema, Road Movie
A middle-aged Tehranian man, Mr. Badii is intent on killing himself and seeks someone to bury him after his demise. Driving around the city, the seemingly well-to-do Badii meets with numerous people, including a Muslim student, asking them to take on the job, but initially he has little luck. Eventually, Badii finds a man who is up for the task because he needs the money, but his new associate soon tries to talk him out of committing suicide.
Taste of Cherry skillfully navigates existential depths, offering a contemplative exploration of life’s complexities. The film’s minimalistic yet profound storytelling, paired with Ershadi’s nuanced portrayal, earns acclaim for its captivating depiction of human struggle and introspection.
Top10nerScore83.776 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Mike Leigh
WRITERS: Mike Leigh
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dick Pope
STARRING: Brenda Blethyn, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Timothy Spall, Phyllis Logan, Claire Rushbrook, Lee Ross
GENRE: Drama, Family Drama
With both her adoptive parents now dead, a Black optometrist decides to make contact with her birth mother, only to find out that she is white.
Secrets & Lies is an extraordinary cinematic achievement, seamlessly blending Leigh’s exacting touch with a stellar ensemble cast. The film’s raw authenticity and emotional exploration of family dynamics make it a standout in the realm of character-driven dramas.
