Animal House

Though modern day filmmakers have tried time and again to duplicate Animal House, it has all been in vain. Nothing will ever top the original film tribute to fraternity life. Although by today's standards, the antics in this film are nowhere near as shocking as they once were, it is still laugh-out-loud funny every time.

Taxi Driver

I must admit that I am not the biggest fan of movies from the 70s. I think the picture quality is completely lacking, and the humor is somewhat lost on me. With that being said, Taxi Driver was beautifully done. The camera work was very good, and of course, since it was a Martin Scorsese film, the violence was purposeful and effective. The view of the "scum of the earth" in New York City was eye-opening, and very progressive for the time. I have not seen many Scorsese films, but this one has impressed me the most thus far. Robert DeNiro plays a Vietnam veteran whose insomnia leads to a night life as a taxi driver. Jodie Foster also delivers a memorable performance as a 13-year-old prostitute.

Wait Until Dark

This film actually scared me a lot when I saw it back in middle school. Audrey Hepburn plays a blind woman who becomes entangled in the plans of a group of crooks. These criminals believe there is heroin hidden in Hepburn's apartment, and they will do anything to get their hands on it. Wait Until Dark is spooky and clever. Definitely a good thriller to watch with someone willing to snuggle.

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

In case you have not already noticed, I have a serious thing for Paul Newman. Butch Cassidy is one of his most memorable roles. He and Robert Redford make a perfect team in this classic. This film makes you cheer for the "bad guys" in the story of two outlaws in the wild west. It also features the popular song, "Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head."

Howl's Moving Castle

After seeing Spirited Away, I immediately added several of director Hayao Miyazaki's other popular films to my list of movies to see. While Spirited Away is still my favorite of his films, Howl's Moving Castle is a close second. I found it to be completely delightful. It has all the elements you would expect: magic, friendship, conflict, and of course, love. The characters are very lovable (similar to Spirited Away), and one gets the same warm feeling from both of these films. I would recommend all of Miyazaki's anime features, I believe he is a true cinematic genius.

Picnic

This dramatic depiction of small town life is both humorous, and romantic. While I find this film to be slightly ridiculous, I can never say no to William Holden. He and Kim Novak spice up the big screen in their search for self-actualization. Rosalind Russell is, however, probably the most notable character in the entire film. Her portrayal of an over-the-hill spinster is painful, yet touching. Russell and Holden make the film worth a try.

They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

I really did not think I would enjoy this film so much. In fact, I only rented it because my favorite episode of Gilmore Girls was very loosely based on this Sydney Pollack classic. I expected a comedy but was surprised to learn quickly that this film is an intense drama with twists and turns along the way, leading up to an unexpected climax. Gig Young won an Oscar for his portrayal of the MC of a dance marathon. The film is set in the 30s and follows this dance marathon, a contest for $1500. Each contestant is unique, but everyone is desperate. Watching them fall apart gives interesting insight into human nature. It is painful and frightening, yet beautiful in its own right.