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.

The Sound of Music

I am always surprised when I hear that someone has never seen The Sound of Music. This is an absolutely beautiful film. The length can intimidate some people, but it is an important look at a very difficult time in history, and of course, a beautiful love story. It is also a musical filled with classic tunes that I am sure you already know. Julie Andrews is really at her best and her amazing voice shines in this classic.

The Crow

Although this film was made in 1994, it is one of the great cult-classics of our time. Brandon Lee plays the spirit of a man plagued by tragedy and fueled by the fires of revenge. During the filming, Lee was accidentally shot and killed, further increasing the somber air of the picture. It is incredibly sad and very moving and the soundtrack is excellent. Everyone should see this once.

Flashdance

"What a Feeling!" Jennifer Beals plays the sexy, strong, Alex, a dancer who is trying to make it into one of the country's most prestigious schools. This is one of the classic dance films of the eighties. Definitely not the best picture in the world, but absolutely a must-see for anyone who loves dance movies. It is the story of an unlikely romance, and a tough girl who will do anything to see her dreams come true (with the right encouragement of course).

The Fifth Element

Obviously a newer classic, but definitely one for the ages. This film features Bruce Willis in a futuristic society. A priest, played by Ian Holm, is charged with protecting the universe from impending doom. Gary Oldman plays a madman desperate to help incite chaos. Willis and Holm work together to protect the "fifth element" or the "supreme being," played by Milla Jovovich, who is humanity's only hope. Chris Tucker's performance provides the fabulous and memorable comic relief in this thriller. In my opinion, it is impossible not to like this film.

Move Over Darling

This Doris Day/James Garner comedy follows the story of a man who lost his wife five years ago in a plane crash. Now he has finally moved on and has taken a new wife. But on the night of his honeymoon, his first wife, Day, shows up at the hotel, initiating chaos and hilarious mix-ups. It is not exactly comedic genius, but definitely a cute and fun romantic comedy and I would absolutely recommend it.

How to Marry a Millionaire

Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, and Bette Grable team up in this comedy about the clash between love and gold-digging. These three women rent an apartment to be their bachelorette pad, and a snake pit geared to trap millionaires. They each work hard at landing one to be their husband, but things get fouled up when they begin meeting men they actually love.

Duck Soup

This is definitely the Marx Brothers at their best. Groucho Marx plays a newly appointed dictator in this satire about war and international relations. Harpo and Chico are spies who add a lot of physical humor and plays-on words. This film is filled with all the usual antics and slapstick humor that the Marx Brothers provide. It is probably considered their best film, and is absolutely my favorite.

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town

This is yet another lovely Frank Capra classic.  Gary Cooper is quite dreamy as the simple, caring, Longfellow Deeds.  Cooper inherits $20 million and goes to the big city to get his affairs in order.  Immediately, Jean Arthur (playing reporter, Babe Bennett) latches on to Cooper to get the inside scoop.  Soon Cooper finds the big city cruel and intimidating and it is up to the people around him to help him get his faith back.  This is a typical uplifting Capra film which I completely recommend.