These 5 films are my cinematic foundation if you will, the cornerstones of my movie selections. The elements of cinema that I really enjoy are prominent in these 5 films. Here it is, in all its' glory: My Top 5 Films.
5. Labyrinth (1986)
After her brother is kidnapped by the king of goblins, Sarah must go on a quest to save him before it's too late. Labyrinth isn't just a movie that entertains me, it fascinates me. From an artistic point of view, I really appreciate Jim Henson's imaginative innovation on all of his projects, including Labyrinth. This movie has a magical, playful essence, while taking the story itself and the characters' stakes seriously.
The creatures of the goblin world are so unique in their design and the performance of the puppeteers; it's evident that Henson was a modern pioneer in the art of puppeteering. Each individual puppet was undoubtedly created with care and intention to create something truly memorable and whimsical.
4. Paper Moon (1973)
After her mother dies, a young Tatum O'Neil tags along with (her real-life father) Ryan O'Neil across the states, to be driven to a relative's home. Shortly on their way, she discovers that he is a con artist, and becomes his partner in their new-found business. Sounds like perfectly wholesome father-daughter bonding! This film has garnered my attention with its clever writing and novel storyline, making Paper Moon an official staple on my shelf.
3. The Jerk (1979)
You can never go wrong with a classic Steve Martin comedy. A sweet idiot from the country makes it big and looses it all. Accompanied by his loyal dog, Shithead, Navin goes on an adventure to find out what the world has to offer, and where he can use his special purpose. After many re-watches, I still find something new to laugh at and remember from my last re-watch and I still never get bored. I especially look forward to the scene at the garage, featuring one of my favourite quotes from the film: "This guy hates cans!"
2. The Outsiders (1983)
We all remember reading S.E Hinton's The Outsiders in school, and being completely enthralled by the story. I can still recall thinking so much about these characters, wondering what would happen to them in the next chapter; I was truly invested in Hinton's storytelling. Truth be told, book to film adaptations are not easy projects, yet Copolla's direction not only does the book justice, but helps the story to be told in a new medium. Rather than words, the visuals give the audience more information and aid in relaying aspects of the book like inner dialogue through cinematography. This is the movie that got me interested in the 80s, and film itself. So its not just a movie that I enjoy, but something that genuinely changed the way I view film.
1. The Karate Kid
The Karate Kid encapsulates youth. It reminds me of the teenage angst everyone goes through, the childish rivalries that occur, the mixture of excitement and fear that's present in life when everything is new. I'm a big fan of the franchise, mainly because of Mr. Miyagi's teachings and the balance and calm he brings to Daniel's life. I myself have used Miyagi's teachings in my real life and it's helped me in significant ways, and changed the way I think and act. I'm a sucker for an underdog narrative, and Kamen's script is so well-written, with complex characters, and relatable themes, I always feel inclined come back to this 80's classic.
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