STARRING: Tim Robbins, Greta Scacchi, Fred Ward, Whoopi Goldberg, Peter Gallagher, Brion James
GENRE: Satire, Mystery, Drama, Black Comedy
SYNOPSIS
A Hollywood studio executive is being sent death threats by a writer whose script he rejected – but which one?
Robert Altman’s The Player ingeniously satirizes Hollywood’s cutthroat nature, blending suspense and dark humor. Tim Robbins’ performance shines, supported by a stellar ensemble cast. The film’s sharp commentary on the industry remains relevant and engaging today.
STARRING: Sterling Hayden, Louis Calhern, Jean Hagen
GENRE: Heist Film, Film noir, Film gris
SYNOPSIS
Recently paroled from prison, legendary burglar “Doc” Riedenschneider, with funding from Alonzo Emmerich, a crooked lawyer, gathers a small group of veteran criminals together in the Midwest for a big jewel heist.
In The Asphalt Jungle, gritty realism merges seamlessly with noir mystique. With its intricate plot and morally complex characters, this timeless classic paved the way for future heist films. A cinematic gem that keeps viewers captivated throughout.
STARRING: Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen, Judi Dench
GENRE: Spy, Action, Thriller
SYNOPSIS
Le Chiffre, a banker to the world’s terrorists, is scheduled to participate in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro, where he intends to use his winnings to establish his financial grip on the terrorist market. M sends Bond—on his maiden mission as a 00 Agent—to attend this game and prevent Le Chiffre from winning. With the help of Vesper Lynd and Felix Leiter, Bond enters the most important poker game in his already dangerous career.
In the riveting reboot of a beloved franchise, Casino Royale dazzles with its raw energy and reinvention. Daniel Craig’s gritty portrayal of Bond breathes new life into the iconic character, while the film’s relentless action and gripping plot keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Set against Paris’ oldest bridge, the Pont Neuf, while it was closed for repairs, this film is a love story between two young vagrants: Alex, a would be circus performer addicted to alcohol and sedatives and Michele, a painter driven to a life on the streets because of a failed relationship and an affliction which is slowly turning her blind.
Set against Paris’s enchanting backdrop, The Lovers on the Bridge captures raw passion and poignant struggles. Juliette Binoche and Denis Lavant deliver mesmerizing performances, while Leos Carax’s direction paints an unforgettable portrait of love’s resilience amidst adversity.
STARRING: Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu, Gene Bervoets, Johanna Ter Steege
GENRE: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Psychological Drama
SYNOPSIS
Rex and Saskia are enjoying a biking holiday in France when, stopping at a gas station, Saskia disappears.
In The Vanishing, Sluizer crafts a gripping psychological thriller that lingers in the mind. With nuanced performances and a haunting atmosphere, it’s a rare gem that expertly explores the depths of human obsession and the chilling consequences of curiosity.
STARRING: Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alan Arkin, Ed Harris, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Pryce
GENRE: Drama, Satire
SYNOPSIS
When an office full of New York City real estate salesmen is given the news that all but the top two will be fired at the end of the week, the atmosphere begins to heat up. Shelley Levene, who has a sick daughter, does everything in his power to get better leads from his boss, John Williamson, but to no avail. When his coworker Dave Moss comes up with a plan to steal the leads, things get complicated for the tough-talking salesmen.
With razor-sharp dialogue and powerhouse performances, Glengarry Glen Ross captivates, delving into the cutthroat world of real estate. Its gritty realism and compelling characters make it a must-watch, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats till the very end.
In a small town in Nazi-occupied Slovakia during World War II, decent but timid carpenter Tono is named “Aryan comptroller” of a button store owned by an old Jewish widow, Rozalie. Since the post comes with a salary and standing in the town’s corrupt hierarchy, Tono wrestles with greed and guilt as he and Rozalie gradually befriend each other. When the authorities order all Jews in town to be rounded up, Tono faces a moral dilemma unlike any he’s known before.
The Shop on Main Street masterfully delves into the complexities of morality in wartime, weaving a heartfelt narrative underscored by Kroner and Kaminska’s outstanding performances. Its enduring impact on cinema history is evident in its ability to provoke thought and emotion.
"I am not putting me donkey outside when I'm sad, okay?"
DIRECTOR: Martin McDonagh
WRITERS: Martin McDonagh
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ben Davis
STARRING: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condon, Barry Keoghan
GENRE: Period Drama, Black Comedy
SYNOPSIS
Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them.
The Banshees of Inisherin captivates with its poignant portrayal of life’s complexities in a remote Irish village. Stellar performances, picturesque cinematography, and a gripping narrative make it a must-watch. A delightful blend of humor and heart, it’s a gem of Irish cinema.
STARRING: James Dean, Julie Harris, Raymond Massey
GENRE: Melodrama, Drama
SYNOPSIS
In the Salinas Valley in and around World War I, Cal Trask feels he must compete against overwhelming odds with his brother for the love of their father. Cal is frustrated at every turn, from his reaction to the war, how to get ahead in business and in life, and how to relate to his estranged mother.
East of Eden stands as a cinematic revelation, with Elia Kazan’s direction and James Dean’s iconic performance raising the bar for emotionally charged storytelling in the 1950s. This adaptation of Steinbeck’s novel captivates with its rich character exploration and timeless themes.
GENRE: Biopic, New German Cinema, Period Drama, Psychological Drama
SYNOPSIS
The film follows Kaspar Hauser, who lived the first seventeen years of his life chained in a tiny cellar with only a toy horse to occupy his time, devoid of all human contact except for a man who wears a black overcoat and top hat who feeds him.
With Herzog’s deft touch, The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser illuminates the human condition with haunting beauty. Hauser’s journey, portrayed with depth by Bruno S., captivates, offering profound reflections on society and self-discovery. An exquisite blend of mystery and introspection.
STARRING: Jack Nicholson, Karen Black, Susan Anspach
GENRE: Drama, New Hollywood
SYNOPSIS
A drop-out from upper-class America picks up work along the way on oil-rigs when his life isn’t spent in a squalid succession of bars, motels, and other points of interest.
Five Easy Pieces stands as a cinematic revelation, seamlessly blending raw emotion with profound social commentary. Nicholson’s tour de force performance, coupled with Rafelson’s deft direction, crafts a poignant exploration of identity and disillusionment, leaving an enduring impact.
As the son of a Viking leader on the cusp of manhood, shy Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III faces a rite of passage: he must kill a dragon to prove his warrior mettle. But after downing a feared dragon, he realizes that he no longer wants to destroy it, and instead befriends the beast – which he names Toothless – much to the chagrin of his warrior father
With stunning animation and a heartfelt story, How to Train Your Dragon captivates audiences of all ages. Its vibrant characters and exhilarating action sequences soar to new heights, delivering a magical experience that leaves viewers breathless and longing for more.
STARRING: Amir Farrokh Hashemian, Bahare Seddiqi, Mohammad Amir Naji, Fereshte Sarabandi
GENRE: Drama, New Iranian Cinema, Family Drama
SYNOPSIS
Zohre’s shoes are gone; her older brother Ali lost them. They are poor, there are no shoes for Zohre until they come up with an idea: they will share one pair of shoes, Ali’s. School awaits…
Children of Heaven impresses with its heartfelt storytelling, transcending cultural boundaries. Its universal themes and touching portrayal of sibling love make it a remarkable cinematic achievement, earning well-deserved acclaim from critics worldwide.
STARRING: Aamir Khan, Boman Irani, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Omi Vaidya
GENRE: Comedy, Buddy, Drama, Coming-of-Age
SYNOPSIS
Two friends are searching for their long lost companion. They revisit their college days and recall the memories of their friend who inspired them to think differently, even as the rest of the world called them “idiots”.
3 Idiots brilliantly blends comedy, drama, and social commentary, resonating with audiences globally. Its engaging narrative, stellar performances, and poignant themes of friendship and education make it a timeless gem that inspires laughter and introspection alike.
STARRING: Shuichiro Moriyama, Akio Ōtsuka, Akemi Okamura, Tokiko Kato
STARRING (ENGLISH): Michael Keaton, Cary Elwes, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Susan Egan
GENRE: Anime, Adventure, Low Fantasy, Comedy
SYNOPSIS
In 1930s Italy, a veteran World War I pilot is cursed to look like an anthropomorphic pig.
Porco Rosso elegantly captures the whimsical spirit of Ghibli, blending exquisite animation with a captivating tale of a flying ace turned pig in post-WWI Italy. Its unique take on love, identity, and heroism resonates with both young and adult audiences, making it a timeless classic
WRITERS: Clyde Bruckman, Jean C. Havez, Joseph A. Mitchell
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Elgin Lessley, Byron Houck
STARRING: Buster Keaton, Ruth Dwyer, Snitz Edwards, T. Roy Barnes
GENRE: Romantic Comedy, Slapstick
SYNOPSIS
Struggling stockbroker Jimmie Shannon learns that, if he gets married by 7 p.m. on his 27th birthday – which is today – he’ll inherit $7 million from an eccentric relative.
Seven Chances captivates with its timeless humor and impeccable slapstick comedy. Buster Keaton’s charm shines through in every scene, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. A delightful cinematic gem that continues to tickle funny bones even after nearly a century.
With his family mired in financial troubles, Domenico moves to Milan, Italy, from his small town to get a job in lieu of furthering his education. A lack of options forces him to take a position as a messenger at a big company, where he hopes to receive a promotion soon. There, Domenico meets Antonietta, a young woman in a similar situation as himself. The two form a tentative relationship, but the soulless nature of their jobs threatens to keep them apart.
Il Posto is a cinematic marvel that captivates with its unvarnished portrayal of ordinary life. Ermanno Olmi’s profound direction and meticulous attention to detail paint an evocative canvas of post-war Italy, highlighting the beauty in everyday struggles.
STARRING: George Clooney, John Turturro, Tim Blake Nelson, John Goodman
GENRE: Comedy, Adventure, Road Movie, Buddy
SYNOPSIS
In the deep south during the 1930s, three escaped convicts search for hidden treasure while a relentless lawman pursues them. On their journey they come across many comical characters and incredible situations. Based upon Homer’s ‘Odyssey’.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? seamlessly blends folk charm with cinematic finesse, crafting a delightful odyssey through the American South. Its witty dialogue, spirited performances, and toe-tapping soundtrack evoke nostalgia and leave audiences grinning ear to ear.
2020 | 1h 44m | BIH, AUT, ROM, GER & POL | BOSNIAN
TOP10NER'S SCORE78.476 / 100
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"We are on the list!"
DIRECTOR: Jasmila Žbanić
WRITERS: Jasmila Žbanić, Hasan Nuhanovic
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christine A. Maier
STARRING: Jasna Đuričić, Izudin Bajrović, Boris Ler
GENRE: War, Period Drama
SYNOPSIS
Bosnia, July 1995. Aida is a translator for the UN in the small town of Srebrenica. When the Serbian army takes over the town, her family is among the thousands of citizens looking for shelter in the UN camp. As an insider to the negotiations Aida has access to crucial information that she needs to interpret. What is at the horizon for her family and people – rescue or death? Which move should she take?
Quo Vadis, Aida? impressively captures the harrowing tragedy of the Bosnian War, delving into its grim realities with meticulous research. Jasmila Žbanić’s portrayal is both poignant and thought-provoking, shedding light on a dark chapter in history.
STARRING (ENGLISH): Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Martin Short, William H. Macy
GENRE: Anime, Period Drama, Romance, Melodrama
SYNOPSIS
A lifelong love of flight inspires Japanese aviation engineer Jiro Horikoshi, whose storied career includes the creation of the A-6M World War II fighter plane
The Wind Rises is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant animated film that beautifully intertwines historical events and personal dreams, offering a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of creativity, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passion.
STARRING: Aoi Miyazaki, Takao Osawa, Haru Kuroki, Yukito Nishii
STARRING (ENGLISH): Colleen Clinkenbeard, David Matranga, Jad Saxton, Micah Solusod
GENRE: Anime, Low Fantasy, Coming-of-Age, Drama, Family Drama
SYNOPSIS
After her werewolf lover unexpectedly dies in an accident, a woman must find a way to raise the son and daughter that she had with him. However, their inheritance of their father’s traits prove to be a challenge for her.
Wolf Children is a heartwarming and beautifully animated film that seamlessly blends fantasy and realism, offering a touching exploration of the challenges of single parenthood. Its profound narrative and exquisite visuals make it a must-see for all audiences.
Richard Hannay stumbles upon a conspiracy that thrusts him into a hectic chase across the Scottish moors—a chase in which he is both the pursuer and the pursued—as well as into an unexpected romance with the cool Pamela.
The 39 Steps has stood the test of time as a true cinematic classic, captivating audiences with its clever blend of suspense and humor, well ahead of its era. This early Hitchcock offering foreshadows the brilliance he’d attain in his illustrious career.
STARRING: Omar Sharif, Julie Christie, Geraldine Chaplin, Rod Steiger, Alec Guinness, Tom Courtenay, Rita Tushingham, Ralph Richardson, Siobhán McKenna
GENRE: Period Drama, Romance, Epic
SYNOPSIS
The life of a Russian physician and poet who, although married to another, falls in love with a political activist’s wife and experiences hardship during World War I and then the October Revolution.
Doctor Zhivago captivates with its sweeping cinematography, transporting audiences into the tumultuous backdrop of revolution. Omar Sharif’s poignant portrayal and the lush, emotive score weave a tapestry of love and loss. A timeless epic that resonates across generations.
"I'm not gonna lead you in the back like a horse."
DIRECTORS: Éric Toledano, Olivier Nakache
WRITERS: Éric Toledano, Olivier Nakache
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Mathieu Vadepied
STARRING: François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot
GENRE: Buddy, Comedy, Drama
SYNOPSIS
A true story of two men who should never have met – a quadriplegic aristocrat who was injured in a paragliding accident and a young man from the projects.
The Intouchables is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film that masterfully blends humor and emotion. With brilliant performances from Cluzet and Sy, it offers a poignant exploration of friendship, transcending societal barriers in a refreshingly authentic and moving way.
A sixty-something woman, faced with the discovery of a heinous family crime and in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, finds strength and purpose when she enrolls in a poetry class.
Poetry weaves a poignant narrative, delicately exploring the complexities of life and language. Through a mesmerizing performance by Yun Jung-hee, it paints an emotionally resonant portrait that lingers in the heart, showcasing the power of storytelling in its purest form.
STARRING: Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones, Joan Cusack
GENRE: Animation, Christmas, Family, Comedy
SYNOPSIS
When Jesper distinguishes himself as the Postal Academy’s worst student, he is sent to Smeerensburg, a small village located on an icy island above the Arctic Circle, where grumpy inhabitants barely exchange words, let alone letters. Jesper is about to give up and abandon his duty as a postman when he meets local teacher Alva and Klaus, a mysterious carpenter who lives alone in a cabin full of handmade toys.
Klaus impresses with its exquisite hand-drawn animation and a heartwarming, humor-infused storyline. It’s poised to secure a cherished spot in the holiday film canon, offering a delightful blend of visuals and storytelling that resonates with viewers of all ages.
STARRING: Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Donnie Yen
GENRE: Wuxia, Period Drama, Epic
SYNOPSIS
One man defeated three assassins who sought to murder the most powerful warlord in pre-unified China.
Hero effortlessly weaves martial arts prowess with poetic storytelling, painting a vibrant tapestry of honor and sacrifice. Visually stunning, each frame is a breathtaking brushstroke of cinematic artistry. A triumphant symphony of action and emotion.
"Life's real joy is found in making others happy."
DIRECTOR: Guru Dutt
WRITERS: Abrar Alvi
CINEMATOGRAPHY: V.K. Murthy
STARRING: Guru Dutt, Waheeda Rehman, Mala Sinha, Rehman, Johnny Walker, Shyam Kapoor, Mehmood, Kumkum
GENRE: Musical, Romance, Melodrama
SYNOPSIS
Vijay, a destitute poet, searches for true love while attempting to get his work published. With the assistance of two women in his life, his dream comes true – but at a cost that causes Vijay to rethink his worldview.
Pyaasa is a cinematic triumph that continues to resonate with its compelling narrative and brilliant direction. Guru Dutt’s incisive storytelling and soul-stirring performances make it a poignant reflection of societal issues, richly layered with pathos and poetic fervor.
"You could fall in love with an orangutan in that!"
DIRECTOR: Guy Ritchie
WRITERS: Guy Ritchie
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tim Maurice-Jones
STARRING: Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Jason Statham, Steven Mackintosh, Vinnie Jones
GENRE: Black Comedy, Heist Film, Gangster Film, Hyperlink Cinema
SYNOPSIS
A card shark and his unwillingly-enlisted friends need to make a lot of cash quick after losing a sketchy poker match. To do this they decide to pull a heist on a small-time gang who happen to be operating out of the flat next door.
In a dazzling display of wit and grit, Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels ignites the screen with its sharp dialogue and frenetic pacing. Guy Ritchie crafts a cinematic rollercoaster, weaving a tale of crime and camaraderie that keeps audiences hooked till the very last shot.
Anna, a young novitiate in 1960s Poland, is on the verge of taking her vows when she discovers a family secret dating back to the years of the German occupation.
Ida is a cinematic triumph, skillfully navigating the complex history of post-war Poland while presenting a haunting, visually arresting tale of self-discovery. Its impeccable black-and-white cinematography and layered storytelling make it an unforgettable work of art.
WRITERS: Clyde Bruckman, Jean C. Havez, Joseph A. Mitchell
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gordon Jennings, Elgin Lessley
STARRING: Buster Keaton, Natalie Talmadge, Joe Roberts
GENRE: Slapstick
SYNOPSIS
A young man falls for a young woman on his trip home; unbeknownst to him, her family has vowed to kill every member of his.
Our Hospitality, a silent classic, seamlessly blends humor and suspense, displaying the genius of Keaton. This painstakingly researched period piece artfully recreates the 1830s, immersing viewers in an era of daring locomotives and charming Southern hospitality.
STARRING: Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Lars Ranthe, Magnus Millang
GENRE: Drama, Comedy
SYNOPSIS
Four high school teachers launch a drinking experiment: upholding a constant low level of intoxication.
Another Round skillfully explores the nuances of mid-life crisis and the search for lost vitality, all through a compelling blend of humor and melancholy. Its superb direction and ensemble cast deliver a refreshingly authentic and thought-provoking narrative.
STARRING: Jane Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Dylan Baker, Cynthia Stevenson, Lara Flynn Boyle, Ben Gazzara
GENRE: Black Comedy, Drama, Hyperlink Cinema
SYNOPSIS
The lives of many individuals connected by the desire for happiness, often from sources usually considered dark or evil.
Happiness is a daring exploration of dark human desires and suburban dysfunction. Todd Solondz’s unflinching approach and the exceptional ensemble cast offer a thought-provoking and discomforting experience, making it a significant work in indie cinema.
"Death isn't serious. What's important is how one dies."
DIRECTOR: René Clément
WRITERS: René Clément, François Boyer, Pierre Bost, Jean Aurenche
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Juillard
STARRING: Brigitte Fossey, Georges Poujouly
GENRE: Drama, Coming-of-Age
SYNOPSIS
Orphaned after a Nazi air raid, Paulette, a young Parisian girl, runs into Michel, an older peasant boy, and the two quickly become close. Together, they try to make sense of the chaotic and crumbling world around them, attempting to cope with death as they create a burial ground for Paulette’s deceased pet dog. Eventually, however, Paulette’s stay with Michel’s family is threatened by the harsh realities of wartime
Forbidden Games captures the essence of post-war France with a delicate, unflinching portrayal of innocence amid chaos. Its authentic characters and poignant storytelling resonate, making it a cinematic testament to the power of human resilience.
STARRING: Brie Larson, John Gallagher Jr., Kaitlyn Dever, Rami Malek, Keith Stanfield
GENRE: Drama, Slice of Life
SYNOPSIS
Grace, a compassionate young supervisor at a foster care facility, helps at-risk teens. But when a new charge dredges up memories of her own troubled past, Grace’s tough exterior begins eroding.
Short Term 12 delicately crafts a poignant narrative that seamlessly weaves together themes of love, resilience, and healing. With heartfelt performances and a compelling screenplay, it offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of its characters, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
WRITERS: Fritz Lang, Thea von Harbou, Norbert Jacques
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Carl Hoffmann
STARRING: Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Aud Egede Nissen, Gertrud Welcker, Bernhard Goetzke
GENRE: Crime, Thriller, German Expressionism
SYNOPSIS
Arch-criminal Dr. Mabuse sets out to make a fortune and run Berlin. Detective Wenk sets out to stop him.
Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler impresses with its visionary storytelling and innovative direction, a testament to Fritz Lang’s early genius. This groundbreaking classic continues to captivate audiences with its intricate portrayal of psychological intrigue and societal decadence.
A California high school student plans to escape from her family and small town by going to college in New York, much to the disapproval of wildly loving, deeply opinionated and strong-willed mother.
Lady Bird offers poignant perspectives on the tumultuous journey through adolescence, highlighting Gerwig’s emergence as a remarkable cinematic auteur. Her distinctive storytelling shines a light on the human complexities of youth, crafting an authentic and resonant narrative.
WRITERS: Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio, Roger S.H. Schulman, Joe Stillman
STARRING: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow
GENRE: Computer Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fairy Tale, Family
SYNOPSIS
It ain’t easy bein’ green – especially if you’re a likable (albeit smelly) ogre named Shrek. On a mission to retrieve a gorgeous princess from the clutches of a fire-breathing dragon, Shrek teams up with an unlikely compatriot – a wisecracking donkey.
Shrek skillfully navigates the realm of fairy tales, infusing a mischievous spirit that both honors and cheekily tweaks Disney’s classics. With valuable life lessons tucked amidst uproarious escapades, this film offers a humorous, fast-paced journey for all ages to enjoy.
STARRING: Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum, Jack Albertson
GENRE: Musical, Family, Comedy, Low Fantasy, Fantasy
SYNOPSIS
Eccentric candy man Willy Wonka prompts a worldwide frenzy when he announces that golden tickets hidden inside five of his delicious candy bars will admit their lucky holders into his top-secret confectionary. But does Wonka have an agenda hidden amid a world of Oompa Loompas and chocolate rivers?
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory combines Gene Wilder’s enigmatic performance and Roald Dahl’s vision with vibrant visuals and memorable songs. It has remained a beloved classic, captivating generations with its enchanting world of pure imagination.
STARRING: Roddy McDowall, Walter Pidgeon, Maureen O’Hara, Donald Crisp, Anna Lee, John Loder, Sara Allgood
GENRE: Drama
SYNOPSIS
At the turn of the century in a Welsh mining village, the Morgans (he stern, she gentle) raise coal-mining sons and hope their youngest will find a better life.
This poignant portrayal of working-class life in How Green Was My Valley evokes nostalgia without descending into sentimentality. A remarkable ensemble cast and John Ford’s expert direction imbue the film with a timeless quality, offering a heartfelt look at a bygone era.
STARRING: Charlie Chaplin, Martha Raye, Marilyn Nash
GENRE: Black Comedy, Crime, Drama
SYNOPSIS
The film is about an unemployed banker, Henri Verdoux, and his sociopathic methods of attaining income. While being both loyal and competent in his work, Verdoux has been laid-off. To make money for his wife and child, he marries wealthy widows and then murders them. His crime spree eventually works against him when two particular widows break his normal routine.
Monsieur Verdoux delivers a daring blend of dark comedy and social commentary. Chaplin’s departure from his iconic Tramp persona is a bold stroke, showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker. Its biting satire on capitalism and morality remains as relevant as ever.
WRITERS: Ernest Lehman, Arthur Laurents, Jerome Robbins
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Daniel L. Fapp
STARRING: Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, Russ Tamblyn
GENRE: Musical, Romance, Tragedy
SYNOPSIS
In the slums of the upper West Side of Manhattan, New York, a gang of Polish-American teenagers called the Jets compete with a rival gang of recently immigrated Puerto Ricans, the Sharks, to “own” the neighborhood streets. Tensions are high between the gangs but two kids, one from each rival gang, fall in love leading to tragedy.
In West Side Story, Jerome Robbins’s choreography electrifies the screen, intertwining with Leonard Bernstein’s timeless score. Wood and Beymer’s chemistry adds depth to this Shakespearean tale of love and tragedy. A classic fusion of music and storytelling.
STARRING: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, Christopher Reeve, James Fox
GENRE: Period Drama, Romance
SYNOPSIS
A rule bound head butler’s world of manners and decorum in the household he maintains is tested by the arrival of a housekeeper who falls in love with him in post-WWI Britain. The possibility of romance and his master’s cultivation of ties with the Nazi cause challenge his carefully maintained veneer of servitude.
The Remains of the Day is a cinematic triumph driven by Hopkins and Thompson’s impeccable performances. Their nuanced portrayals, coupled with the film’s evocative storytelling, create a lasting impact, making it a must-see for fans of powerful character-driven narratives.
STARRING: Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, Ringo Starr
GENRE: Comedy, Musical, British New Wave, Music
SYNOPSIS
Capturing John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr in their electrifying element, ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ is a wildly irreverent journey through this pastiche of a day in the life of The Beatles during 1964. The band have to use all their guile and wit to avoid the pursuing fans and press to reach their scheduled television performance, in spite of Paul’s troublemaking grandfather and Ringo’s arrest.
Even after all these years, A Hard Day’s Night remains a captivating cinematic experience, showcasing the enduring charm of the Beatles and their music. This rock-and-roll film has solidified its status as an enduring classic, a testament to the band’s timeless appeal.
STARRING: Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
GENRE: Period Drama, Legal Drama, Political Thriller, Political Drama
SYNOPSIS
This acclaimed Oliver Stone drama presents the investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy led by New Orleans district attorney Jim Garrison. When Garrison begins to doubt conventional thinking on the murder, he faces government resistance, and, after the killing of suspected assassin Lee Harvey Oswald, he closes the case. Later, however, Garrison reopens the investigation, finding evidence of an extensive conspiracy behind Kennedy’s death.
JFK captivates with its gripping storytelling and stellar performances, inviting audiences to delve deep into one of history’s most intriguing mysteries. Stone masterfully weaves fact with speculation, igniting a compelling cinematic exploration. A triumph of intrigue and passion.
STARRING: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal, Cara Jade Myers, Scott Shepherd
GENRE: Period Drama, Crime, Biopic
SYNOPSIS
When oil is discovered in 1920s Oklahoma under Osage Nation land, the Osage people are murdered one by one—until the FBI steps in to unravel the mystery.
Killers of the Flower Moon delivers a poignant examination of America’s complex ties with Indigenous communities. Remarkable performances, stunning visuals, and a compelling narrative captivate audiences despite the film’s intimidating length, marking another triumph for Scorsese.
"For you'd be the first person in the history of the world."
DIRECTOR: Paul Thomas Anderson
WRITERS: Paul Thomas Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Mihai Malaimare Jr., Barry Idoine
STARRING: Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams
GENRE: Psychological Drama
SYNOPSIS
Freddie, a volatile, heavy-drinking veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, finds some semblance of a family when he stumbles onto the ship of Lancaster Dodd, the charismatic leader of a new “religion” he forms after World War II.
The Master mesmerizes with its unparalleled exploration of human psyche, propelled by Joaquin Phoenix’s raw brilliance and Philip Seymour Hoffman’s masterful portrayal. PTA crafts a haunting, thought-provoking journey that lingers long after the credits roll.
A small-town doctor learns that the population of his community is being replaced by emotionless alien duplicates.
A standout political allegory from the 1950s, Invasion of the Body Snatchers masterfully merges science fiction and horror. Its efficiency and eerie atmosphere render it a thought-provoking cinematic gem, underscoring the paranoia and conformity of the era.
Laura and John, grieved by a terrible loss, meet in Venice, where John is in charge of the restoration of a church, two mysterious sisters, one of whom gives them a message sent from the afterlife.
Don’t Look Now employs a deft touch, weaving a tapestry of suspense with its evocative imagery and chilling score. The film invites viewers to deeply empathize with Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie’s characters, as they grapple with a profound and haunting sense of grief.
An artist in crisis is haunted by nightmares from the past in Ingmar Bergman’s only horror film, which takes place on a windy island. During “the hour of the wolf” – between midnight and dawn – he tells his wife about his most painful memories.
Ingmar Bergman’s venture into the horror genre, Hour of the Wolf, deftly channels the eerie manifestations of artistic demons, showcasing his profound psychological inquisition and expanding his cinematic repertoire with spine-tingling finesse.