Challenge Complete!!

So, this time last year I decided to embark on a cultural journey that would include my greatest passion: film. I decided as my 2012 resolution, I would take on the challenge of watching 365 movies before Jan. 1 2013. For a while, I blogged about each movie that I saw, but as the year went on and I became busy with school, internships and what little sleep I could drum up, I just simply could not find the time to post about each one. HOWEVER, I did keep up with my challenge, and kept a list of all of the films that I watched this year with the magical 365 number constantly in the back of my mind. As this past week approached, I was 12 movies behind, but somehow managed to cram them all in before my deadline at midnight last night! I am posting the final list below of all 365 movies, and am going to do my best to catch up on all of the posts about each one. Thanks to those who gave me suggestions and supported my crazy film addiction, most specifically my mom who definitely fueled my fire! Happy 2013, and here's to a new year, see you at the movies!

365 The Shawshank Redemption

364 Wedding Crashers

363 The Hangover

362 Ace Ventura Pet Detective

361 Django Unchained

360 This is 40

359 Grease

358 Hot Rod

357 Rat Race

356 She’s All That

355 Superstar

354 The Mighty Macs

353 Rain Man

352 The Kite Runner

351 Brian’s Song

350 My Left Foot

349 Albert Nobbs

348 The Piano

347 Taps

346 Platoon

345 This is England

344 Dumb and Dumber

343 Billy Madison

342 Saving Silverman

341 The Ax Fight

340 Cannibal Tours

339 Out at Work

338 Tongues Untied

337 Rex Vs. Singh

336 My Brooklyn

335 Night and Fog

334 Shoah

333 Photographer

332 Stranger Comes to Town

331 Waltz with Bashir

330 The Road to Guantanamo

329 Torture: The Guantanamo Handbook

328 The Banana Man

327 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

326 Casablanca

325 Double Indemnity

324 Mary and Max

323 When Harry Met Sally

322 My Best Friend’s Wedding

321 Notting Hill

320 Hyde Park on Hudson

319 Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2

318 The Amazing Spider-Man

317 Damsels In Distress

317 Tiny Furniture

316 Joyful Noise

315 Contraband

314 The Hobbit: And Unexpected Journey

313 Life of Pi

312 Silver Linings Playbook

311 Lincoln

310 Wreck-It Ralph

309 Skyfall

308 Cloud Atlas

307 The Sessions

306 Rust and Bone

305 Pitch Perfect

304 Frankenweenie

303 Taken 2

302 Won’t Back Down

301 Finding Nemo

300 Raiders of the Lost Ark

299 Lawless

298 Sparkle

297 ParaNorman

296 The Expendables 2

295 The Bourne Legacy

294 Total Recall

293 The Watch

292 Step Up Revolution

291 People Like Us

290 The Invisible War

289 Crooked Arrows

288 The Raven

287 Marley and Me

286 Jesus Christ Superstar

285 Hairspray

284 Bye Bye Birdie

283 The Five-Year Engagement

282 Think Like a Man

281 Chimpanzee

280 Titanic

279 The Great Gatsby

278 Jane Eyre

277 Jeff, Who Lives at Home

276 John Carter

275 This is Not a Film

274 50/50

273 The Grey

272 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

271 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

270 The Nightmare Before Christmas

269 Catfish

268 Easy A

267 The Other Guys

266 Tangled

265 Four Lions

264 In the Loop

263 Despicable Me

262 The Fighter

261 The Wrestler

260 Cool Hand Luke

259 The Mighty Ducks

258 Heavyweights

257 Miracle

256 I am Love

255 Kick Ass

254 Elephant

253 Meshes of the Afternoon

252 Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

251 Blue Valentine

250 The King’s Speech

249 Black Swan

248 Inception

247 Lars and the Real Girl

246 Waitress

245 A Mighty Wind

244 Best in Show

243 Dan in Real Life

242 Persepolis

241 Superbad

240 Million Dollar Baby

239 Kramer vs. Kramer

238 Away from Her

237 Michael Clayton

236 Once

235 Airplane!

234 A Clockwork Orange

233 Dial M for Murder

232 Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
231 Fargo

230 Ghost World

229The Godfather

228 Of Gods and Men

227 Manhattan

226 Gosford Park

225 Hoop Dreams

224 In the Heat of the Night

223 It Happened One Night

222 Atomic Cafe

221 It’s a Wonderful Life

220 Miracle on 34th Street

219 Elf

218 Jerry Maguire

217 Lolita

216 The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari

215 Being John Malkovich

214 Wet Hot American Summer

213 Pearl Jam 20

212 Get Him to the Greek

211 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

210 Duck Soup

209 True Grit

208 Battleship Potemkin

207 The Birth of a Nation

206 Fight Club

205 Clerks

204 No Strings Attached

203 Man on Wire

202 Limitless

201 Rango

200 Scary Movie 3

199 Grizzly Man

198 Memento

197 Seven

196 Legends of the Fall

195 Reservoir Dogs

194 March of the Penguins

193 Supersize Me

192 Waiting for Superman

191 Indie Game: The Movie

190 Mansome

189 Our Daily Bread

188 Restrepo

187 Clue

186 Uncle Buck

185 Raising Arizona

184 Dr. Horrible’s Sing a Long Blog

183 Into the Abyss

182 Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story

181 Word Wars

180 Ingredients

179 Super High Me

178 The Cider House  Rules

177 Billy Elliot

176 Emma

175 Shakespeare in Love

174 Man with a Movie Camera

173 Nanook of the North

172 Salesman

171 Chronicle of a Summer

170 The Thin Blue Line

169 Paradise Lost

168 Brother’s Keeper

167 Nobody’s Business

166 Daughter Rite

165 Exit Through the Gift Shop

164 Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan

163 Whale Rider

162 Cane Toads: An Unnatural History

161 Century of the Self

160. Citizen Kane

159. Jaws

158. The Princess Bride

157. American Beauty

156. Moulin Rouge

155. Waiting for Guffman

154. Little Miss Sunshine

153. WALL-E

152. Slumdog Millionaire

151. Rachel Getting Married

150. Fantastic Mr. Fox

149. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days

148. The Odd Life of Timothy Green

147. The Wedding Singer

146. Hysteria

144. The Queen of Versailles

145. Martha Marcy May Marlene

143. J. Edgar

142. Hall Pass

141. Bridesmaids

American Pie

139. Crazy, Stupid, Love

138. Ruby Sparks

137. Thor

136. Country Strong

135. Into The Wild

134. The Girl Next Door

133. Good Will Hunting

132. Juno

131. Sixteen Candles

130. A Beautiful Mind

129. The Shining

128. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

127. All That Heaven Allows

126. Run Lola Run

125. Katy Perry: Part of Me

124. Fast Times at Ridgemont High

123. The Campaign

122. Office Space

121. Almost Famous

120. Hope Springs

119. Beasts of the Southern Wild

118. The Dark Knight Rises

117. Zoolander

116. There's Something About Mary

115. Seeking a Friend for the end of the World

114. Thirteen

113. Friends With Kids

112. That's My Boy

111. Annie Hall

110. Magic Mike

109. To Rome With Love

108. Requiem for a Dream

107. Drop Dead Fred

106. Teen Wolf

105 Brave

104. Ice Age: Continental Drift

103. The Amazing Spider Man

102 Late Bloomer (2004)- short

101. Moonrise Kingdom

100. Notorious

99 Psycho (1950)

98 Donnie Darko

97. The Other Boleyn Girl

96.  Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

95. Pulp Fiction

94. Rock of Ages

93. Carnage

92. Safety Not Guaranteed

91. The Babysitters

90. Garden State

89. Snow White and the Huntsman

88. The Avengers

87. Men in Black III

86. Men in Black

85 The Kids Are All Right (2010)

84. What to Expect When You're Expecting (2012)- K...

83. The Dilemma (2011)- Ron Howard

82. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012)- John Ma...

81. Battleship (2012)- Peter Berg

80. The Dictator (2012)- Larry Charles

79. Dark Shadows (2012)- Tim Burton

78. Santa Claus 3

77. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)- Chris Columbus

76. Ghostbusters (1984)- Ivan Reitman

75. Risky Business (1983)- Paul Brickman

74. Groundhog Day (1993)- Harold Ramis

73. Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002)- Steve Oedeker...

72. The Lucky One (2012)- Scott Hicks

71. The Muppets (2011) - James Bobin

70. When In Rome (2010)- Mark Steven Johnson

69. John Tucker Must Die (2006)- Betty Thomas

67. Love And Other Drugs (2010)- Edward Zwick

68. Ever After (1998)- Andy Tennant

66. Bananas (1971)- Woody Allen

65. Good Burger (1997)- Brian Robbins

64. The Last Song (2010)- Julie Anne Robinson

63. Let It Be (1970)- Michael Lindsay-Hogg

62. Never Let Me Go (2010)

61. The Room (1999 or 2003???...typical)- Tommy Wi...

60. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

59. 27 Dresses (2008)- Anne Fletcher

58. The Hunger Games (2012)- Gary Ross

57. Miss Congeniality (2000)- Donald Petrie

56. The Blind Side (2009)- John Lee Hancock

55. Imagine: John Lennon (1988)- Andrew Solt

54. Like Crazy (2011)- Drake Doremus

53. 21 Jump Street (2012)

52. The Lorax (2012)- Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda

51. Project X (2012)- Nima Nourizadeh

50. Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey (2011)- Cons...

49. KONY 2012 (2012)- Invisible Children (29 mins....

48. Wanderlust (2012)- David Wain

47. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)- Blake Edwards

46. Death At a Funeral (2007)- Frank Oz

45. The September Issue (2008)- R.J. Cutler

44. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)- ...

43. Animal house (1978)- John Landis

42. Moneyball (2011)- Bennett Miller

41. Let Me In (2010) - Matt Reeves

40. Meet the Parents (2000) - Jay Roach

39. Romeo + Juliet (1996) - Baz Lurhmann

38. Harold and Maude (1971)- Hal Ashby

37. The Gladiator

36. The Vow (2012)- Michael Sucsy

35. The Making of Sgt. Pepper (1992)- Documentary

34. Beginners (2010)- Mike Mills

33. Riding in Cars With Boys (2001)- Penny Marshal...

32. Ice Princess (2005)- Tim Fywell

31 Remember the Titans (2000)- Boaz Yakin

30. One Million Years B.C. (1966)- Don Chaffey

29. The Graduate (1967)- Mike Nichols

28 Mean Girls (2004)- Mark Waters

27. Midnight in Paris (2011)- Woody Allen

26. Cyberbully (TV 2011)- Charles Binamé

25. Ali G Indahouse (2002)- Mark Mylod

24. What A Girl Wants (2003) - Dennie Gordon23. Clueless (1995) - Amy Heckerling

22. Flowers and Trees (1932)- Walt Disney

21. Geri's Game (1997)- Jan Pinkava

20. Horrible Bosses (2011)- Seth Gordon

19. Casablanca (1942)- Michael Curtiz

18. Step Brothers (2008)- Adam McKay

17. Music and Lyrics (2007)- Marc Lawrence

16. Beauty and the Beast 3D (2012, 1991)- Gary Tro...

15. Contagion (2011)- Steven Soderbergh

14. The Iron Lady (2011)- Phyllida Lloyd

13. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)- Gil Junger

12. Harvey (1950)- Henry Koster

these go to 11. This is Spinal Tap (1984)- Rob Rei...

10. Sherlock Holmes 2: A Game of Shadows (2011)- G...

9. Win a Date with Tad Hamilton (2004)- Robert Luk...

8. The Artist (2011)- Michel Hazanavicius

7. Tinker Tailer Soldier Spy (2011) - Tomas Alfred...

6. My Week with Marilyn (2011)- Simon Curtis

5. Buck (2011)- Cindy Meehl

4. The Descendants (2011)- Alexander Payne

3. We Bought a Zoo (2011) - Cameron Crowe

2 Mission Impossible 4: Ghost Protocol (2011)- Br...

1. War Horse (2011)- Steven Speilberg

83. The Dilemma (2011)- Ron Howard

The Dilemma Trailer

What would you do if you witnessed your best friend's wife cheating on him with a much younger man in a simulated jungle? You'd tell him, right? But what if that wife was blackmailing you, by threatening to tell your friend that you were the one making passes at her? This is the basic premise of "The Dilemma." I think if it were rewritten and re-casted, this train wreck of a film would actually have a chance. There are only so many times when I can watch Kevin James acting like a buffoon before I just can't take it anymore. Winona Ryder is a has been, and I can not even look at her without picturing her mug shot. She should've just stopped after Edward Scissorhands. The fact that her character was the supposed evil villain was more comical than anything else. Vince Vaughn was actually kind of touching, though. It was refreshing to see him play a character that has substance beyond just being a womanizer. Beyond that, the story was rather flat, and predictable. I found myself zoning out throughout the entire movie, thinking about all of the other movies I could be watching instead. The climax of the movie finally came in the last twenty minutes, but at that point, it was far too late to be saved. Ron Howard, I'm disappointed in you. You've won an Oscar for Directing (for "A Beautiful Mind"), and somehow manage to direct this bullshit. You can, and have done better. 

82. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012)- John Madden

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel Trailer

A very charming depiction of a group of "seasoned" Brits, "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" highlights what life is like in the golden years. The story begins with a handful of strangers sitting for hours in an airport after their flight to Jaipur has been cancelled. Soon, they are thrown into a run down, yet alluring hotel in the slums of India. They are immediately disappointed as the accommodations do not match up with those from their brochure. However, as the film progresses, the various characters are put through the physical, as well as mental challenges that come with growing older, all while learning to adapt to their unfamiliar surroundings. Whether it is getting your first real job working as a telemarketer, or learning to handle the death of those closest to you who are your peers, this film delves into it all. The script came with all of the attraction of a British "rom com": quick witty one liners, sentimental and relatable relationships, mixed with a little bit of heart break that can only be found with extremely well developed characters. Virtually a perfect movie, I left the theater feeling a mix of emotions- in a good way. The cast was stellar (Judi Dench, Dev Patel, Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie, Tena Desae...need I go on??) and all lived up to their respective reputations. This film may feature protagonists who's average age is above 60, but that does not mean that it can not be enjoyed by people of all ages. 

81. Battleship (2012)- Peter Berg

Battleship Trailer

When I first heard that one of my favorite childhood games was being turned into a movie, I was instantly concerned. After seeing the finished product, I have decided to not be so critical on this one and take it as it is- a stupid, summer block buster, action adventure, alien movie. That description, in and of itself, makes me roll my eyes as a film major. But, apparently this shit sells so good for them. Anyway, in hindsight it was actually not horrible. The cast was an interesting mix with, Rihanna, Liam Neeson, Taylor Kitsch, Brooklyn Decker and Alexander Skarsgard. They all did a decent job, and served their purpose: to look good fighting aliens while wearing navy seal uniforms, which is undoubtedly the most attractive outfit a man can wear. Anyway, if you go into this film having no expectations, you will definitely be entertained. The action and special effects were incredible and looked very realistic. The script was terrible, but that isn't what this movie was about, as long as the ships looked cool blowing up that is all that really mattered. It was totally cheesy, and dumb, but very entertaining at the time. If you're looking for a movie that won't provide thought provoking questions, make you think at all, but show you good looking people fighting aliens- this is certainly for you. Also, you get to say "you sunk my battleship" and really mean it this time. Worth it.

80. The Dictator (2012)- Larry Charles

The Dictator Trailer

Am I the only one that is over the whole, sexist, racist, bigoted, flat out offensive Sacha Baron Cohen movies? I'll admit that he was hilarious in Borat, because he was interacting with real people who had no idea what the hell was going on. Bruno was a more disgusting over the top version of Borat, but this film was not even funny. Now, I'm not easily offended, so that isn't the problem here. My issue is that the dialogue just sounds stupid, and targets people to offend that often can't defend themselves, which I am not okay with. I think the idea of a Middle Eastern dictator coming to the United States, especially New York has the potential to be hilarious, providing that you are willing to laugh at the ridiculousness of popular culture. However, the jokes and insults were so overly scripted that they did not seem natural, and even in a film like this, which is so irrational and would NEVER happen, I still like to have some sort of component of reality, and with dialogue like that, I just couldn't get passed it. I'm sure he'll make another crude, offensive movie sometime soon, and I hope that one is more like Borat and less like Bruno.

79. Dark Shadows (2012)- Tim Burton

Dark Shadows Trailer

As much as I adore Tim Burton's work, especially in collaboration with Johnny Depp, this film just felt slightly dead to me, pun totally intended. The idea for the story was great. A vampire, who was buried in the ground, escapes two hundred years later, in the year 1972. He returns back to his family's manor, only to find that it is not the grand old palace that it used to be. He works to restore the former glory that the Collins family once had back in the day. Only one problem, well several problems but the main one comes when the witch, who casted the spell on Barnabus Collins (Johnny Depp), returns to seek vengeance on the family once again. All of this sounds great on paper, along with the belief that there would be some sort of creepy dark humor that usually comes along with a Tim Burton film. In this film, however, the jokes just fell flat, leaving the audience feeling uncomfortable and disappointed. Especially since the cast was fantastic: Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Chloë Grace Mortez, and Eva Green. I would've like to see Burton take a more radical approach in this film, either making it scarier, or clumsy funny. Either way, it would have had some much needed "oomph." This film seemed like Tim Burton was getting pressure from the studios to force out a "hit" film, and it just fell flat.

76. Ghostbusters (1984)- Ivan Reitman

Ghostbusters Trailer

Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd play cocky scientists roaming around New York City exterminating the city's most dangerous creatures...subway rats? Nope. Sketchy homeless men that call you "honey"? No. Ghosts. Oh and the Stay Puft Marshmello Man. Casual. As a huge Bill Murray fan, I adore the snarky comments he makes throughout the film, especially because the comedy lies in the fact that he takes his job, and himself far too seriously for someone who captures ghosts for a living. Also, no alien/ghost movie would be complete without a stellar performance from Sigourney Weaver. As Murray's love interest, who also happens to live in some type of a portal for the supernatural, she is not the stereotypical "rom com" heroine, but she does make a great daemon. As ridiculous as the story may be, the chemistry between the cast, which also features Harold Ramis and Rick Moranis, is incredible. Each character was perfectly cast, and even though John Belushi and John Candy were both interested in the role of loudmouth, womanizing Dr. Venkeman, Bill Murray was perfect for the role. An overall ridiculous comedy, this film has become an American classic. "We came. We saw. We kicked its ass!"

74. Groundhog Day (1993)- Harold Ramis

Groundhog Day Trailer

What would you do if you could live the same day, over and over again without any repercussions for your actions? This is the basic premise of "Groundhog Day." Bill Murray plays Phil, an arrogant, cocky weatherman who has to go to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to cover a story on whether the "rat" will see his shadow. Throughout that day he wakes up to "I Got You Babe," eats at a diner, gets harassed by some nerd he went to high school with, runs into Nancy Taylor- yes, that happens, and tries to win over his coworker Rita (Andie MacDowell). Each day, Phil spends his time trying to perfect exactly what to say to Rita when he sees her, from learning French, to toasting to world peace, he knows exactly what is going to make her interested...because she told him when he lived this day yesterday. The movie is belly laugh funny, but of course- it is Bill Murray we're talking about here. The only thing is, if I spent over 70 days reliving the same day I don't think that I would spend it testing the waters as much as he does (driving his car off of a cliff, electrifying himself..etc). But either way, this movie never gets old. I still laugh every time he steps into the pool of water, or when he calls Rita's college major stupid. It's one of those American classic comedies that can at least always been seen once a year: Groundhog Day.

73. Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002)- Steve Oedekerk

Kung Pow: Enter the Fist Trailer

So after weeks of my friend Kevin walking around our dorm saying "birdie, birdie, birdie...I am a great magician...your shirt is red," he finally convinced me to watch this absurd spoof on the Martial Arts Kung Fu genre. It is complete with some hamster nun chucks, ninja cows, a woman with a "uniboob" and a character only known as "The Chosen One" (even in the credits...seriously). It was purposely badly overdubbed to the point that it felt like the producers took a film, watched it without any sound, imagined the most ridiculous things that the characters might be saying- then used that as the dialogue. It plays on the stereotype that Asian women are submissive and hyper sexual, but in a non-offensive way. That's the thing about this movie, the only reason that anyone would be offended, is if they are a film student (like myself) and are bothered by the lack of story and idiotic slapstick comedy scenes that last just far too long. But, about midway through I realized that the film is actually a version of a found footage film, taking a famous kung fu movie from the 70s and green screening the main character into it, while still making it look seamless. It is actually pure genius, and even though the humor is stupid, really, really REALLY stupid...for some reason it works. I mean who doesn't love a "good" overdubbed, retro 70s kung fu Hollywood movie with a cow that defends itself by shooting milk out of its udders, a man with a face on his tongue, and a woman with a uniboob....it just doesn't get much better than the uniboob.

72. The Lucky One (2012)- Scott Hicks

The Lucky One Trailer

Seriously, Zac Effron? You could'nt have just stuck to the High School Musical franchise where at least everyone knew the movies were bad? This movie, obviously adapted from a Nicholas Sparks novel, was ridiculous. The actors seemed as if they were trying way too hard to be considered serious actors and it just came across goofy and awkward. Once again, the plot was completely predictable, almost in a comical way. A soldier walks across the country to thank a woman that he believes saved his life when he was at war. He then (obviously) falls in love with her, but she has a lot of baggage what with her psychotic ex-husband who just happens to be the sheriff's son...They get into a big fight when she finds out why the soldier is actually there, he storms off, then has a feeling and comes back to save the family. And then someone dies. Come on now. Can we not just have one surprise? Or plot twist that wasn't completely obvious? The only good part about the movie is that the two main characters were both attractive, but besides that my friend Rachael and I laughed out loud at seemingly inappropriate parts throughout the movie out of sheer awkwardness. I still think that if you are dying to watch a Nicholas Sparks movie, just watch the Notebook. 

71. The Muppets (2011) - James Bobin

The Muppets Trailer

What's not to love about the Muppets, especially in combination with the always loveable Amy Adams and sometimes loveable Jason Segal? The film introduces a new member to the Muppet community, Walter, who idolizes everything that the Muppets stand for: acceptance, unity and love. After seeing that the old Muppet studio in Los Angeles is completely run down and about to be taken over by an evil businessman, Walter decides to bring the gang back together to perform one last show. This gave the audience and opportunity to see what the Muppets have been doing for all of these years. Whether it is Miss Piggy working for French Vogue as the Anna Wintour-esque character, or seeing Animal in a rehabilitation facility (sponsored by Jack Black) for anger management issues, it was a really clever way to feel as if you have been clued in on their lives for the past number of years. The Muppets represent an eclectic group of creatures who all come together to answer the always relevant question, "why are there so many songs about rainbows?" This movie did not disappoint, and I believe it even rivals the original 1979 classic. Yes, the song and dance numbers are overly cheesy, and reminiscent of a 40s MGM classic musical, where the townspeople come together off of the streets to question whether Jason Segal is a man, or a Muppet of a man, but that all adds to the charm. While the market of the movie is obviously geared towards children, there are so many small quirky satirical references that make it just as entertaining for adults as it is for children.

70. When In Rome (2010)- Mark Steven Johnson

When In Rome Trailer

For something that falls under the genre of a "romantic comedy," the only thing romantic about it is the Italian backdrop, but it is certainly not comedic- at all. Except maybe if you are the kind of person who laughs when you feel extremely awkward- then maybe you would find it funny. With a cast of potential, I was utterly disappointed at this lackluster excuse for a fairy tale. Kristen Bell stars as Beth, the ugly duckling who is completely consumed with her job as a curator. When she discovers that her beautiful, yet impulsive younger sister is getting married to an Italian man that she met just two weeks before, Beth has to be convinced to even go to the wedding. She obviously does, because the entire plot of the movie revolves around her being the worst maid of honor, getting frustrated about her own love life and stealing other people's coins out of a fountain. The movie had potential, the story wasn't awful (it was bad, don't get me wrong, but tolerable), except that the actors seemed completely uninterested and lame. I really wanted it to be cute, but it fell completely short and just left me feeling uncomfortable.

69. John Tucker Must Die (2006)- Betty Thomas

John Tucker Must Die Trailer

Everyone knows a John Tucker. "That guy" who is stunningly good looking, a total sports phenom, and completely capable of sustaining three girlfriends all at once, from different social circles so they don't realize that the others even exist. All is well and good in the life of a John Tucker, until the girls discover each other and are completely unamused. And what happens when you put those girls in a room together? They make a plan to destroy said man. This might be the basic premise of "John Tucker Must Die," but there is so much more to it than just a bunch of teenage girls getting revenge on their cheating ex boyfriend. There's herpes, man thongs, Elvis Costello, "the other tucker" and skip. Staring Brittany Snow, Ashanti, Sophia Bush and Penn Badgley, this is a comical play on high school stereotypes and their affect on the social dynamic that they function within. From the self obsessed head cheerleader, to the vegan teen activist, to the future Katie Couric, to the nobody who blends into the crowd, the comedy lies within the fact that these girls would never have been brought together without the one man they plot to destroy: John Tucker.

82. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012)- John Madden

The Best Exotic Marigod Hotel Trailer

A very charming depiction of a group of "seasoned" Brits, "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" highlights what life is like in the golden years. The story begins with a handful of strangers sitting for hours in an airport after their flight to Jaipur has been cancelled. Soon, they are thrown into a run down, yet alluring hotel in the slums of India. They are immediately disappointed as the accommodations do not match up with those from their brochure. However, as the film progresses, the various characters are put through the physical, as well as mental challenges that come with growing older, all while learning to adapt to their unfamiliar surroundings. Whether it is getting your first real job working as a telemarketer, or learning to handle the death of those closest to you who are your peers, this film delves into it all. The script came with all of the attraction of a British "rom com": quick witty one liners, sentimental and relatable relationships, mixed with a little bit of heart break that can only be found with extremely well developed characters. Virtually a perfect movie, I left the theater feeling a mix of emotions- in a good way. The cast was stellar (Judi Dench, Dev Patel, Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie, Tena Desae...need I go on??) and all lived up to their respective reputations. This film may feature protagonists who's average age is above 60, but that does not mean that it can not be enjoyed by people of all ages.

67. Love And Other Drugs (2010)- Edward Zwick

Love and Other Drugs Trailer

Besides the fact that both Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal are naked more in this movie than they are actually clothed, I didn't really see what the hype was all about. It actually seemed pretty cliché.  Hathaway plays Maggie, who a free spirit who suffers from Parkinson's disease. She reluctantly falls for womanizer, drug rep Jamie (Gyllenhaal) who goes from office to office trying to sell Viagra. The concept was there, but the follow through fell just short. There was something strange about the juxtaposition in her Parkinson's and the way it is dealt with, versus the "sport" of pharmaceutical sales. I think what I am most bothered about is that this film was marketed as a "rom com" when meanwhile there is nothing funny about it. It was sad and slightly disturbing, and the only enjoyable part was the obvious chemistry between Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal, which was certainly undeniable. It's not that it is a bad movie at all, I just think that it could've been better.

68. Ever After (1998)- Andy Tennant

Ever After Trailer

Who knew that Leonado da Vinci was a key factor in the story of Cinderella? Well, he was in this version at least. Set in the early 16th century, this is a charming rendition of the classic Grimm Brothers' fairy tale. Starring Drew Barrymore as Cinderella and Angelica Huston as the evil step-mother, this film is just as enchanting and lovely as the Disney cartoon, even if it doesn't have magical animals and a pumpkin carriage. What it does have, however, is a fairy godmother in the form of one of the greatest artist and inventors of all time, da Vinci. What was interesting about this depiction of the story of Cinderella, is it is not as misogynistic as other interpretations. Danielle's (Barrymore) relationship with Prince Henry (Dougray Scott) is formed on the premise of intellectual stimulation, as opposed to solely on her beauty. He falls in love with her because she is passionate about reading books, and being educated, which is not often portrayed in performances of this classic fairy tale. It seemed to be as realistic as this story can get, and actually showed that Barrymore can be a great dramatic actress when she really wants to be.

66. Bananas (1971)- Woody Allen

Bananas Trailer

This early Woody Allen film is just as "bananas" as its title suggests. One of the goofier of Allen's works, this absurd comedy features Allen as Fielding Mellish, a product tester from New York. He soon falls in love with Nancy (but of course he did, her name is Nancy after all) who is a political activist that showed up at his door looking for him to sign her petition. He becomes instantly infatuated with Nancy, which leads to a string of bizarre instances eventually causing Fielding to become the leader of San Marcos in hopes of winning over Nancy's heart. Often times throughout the movie, I felt as if I was watching an episode of Madtv, or SNL because it had a very "campy" or vaudeville-esque feel to it. Each scene could stand alone as its own comedy sketch, loosely linked together by some sort of an unrealistic plot. This is definitely one of the more silly of Allen's films, mainly focused around physical, slapstick comedy as a way of stringing the seemingly unrelated scenes into one whole Don Quixote/Marx Brothers' "Duck Soup" inspired comedy. 

65. Good Burger (1997)- Brian Robbins

Good Burger Trailer

Who loves orange soda? Kel loves orange soda! Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell star in this ridiculous, slapstick made for Nickelodeon tv movie about good versus evil and the battle for best burger. This was one of my favorite movies growing up, and after watching it now, I can still see why. The story is based off a comedy sketch on the Nickelodeon television show, "All That" which was basically the children's version of Saturday Night Live. It was funny, wholesome comedy that wasn't focused on sex, but rather the ridiculousness of different friendships. "Good Burger" follows the always hilarious comedy duo of Kenan and Kel who both work at a burger joint who is in a constant competition with the place next-door, Mondo Burger. When Ed (Kel) develops his special sauce, the workers next door decide to lace their burgers with dangerous chemicals that make them double, sometimes triple the size of what it should be. This causes Ed and Dexter (Kenan) to do everything in their power to save the customers of Mondo Burger from getting sick from the chemicals, even if that means going undercover dressed as hideous looking women. This movie is funny, and makes me almost sad to see how different the shows I grew up watching are from the ones today. It's okay, because I will always remember the phrase, "Welcome to Good Burger, home of the Good Burger, can I take your order?"

64. The Last Song (2010)- Julie Anne Robinson

The Last Song Trailer

Oh Smiley Miley, look at you starring in a role that doesn't involve wearing sequin pants and changing your wig! This film could not have been any more stereotypically based off of a Nicholas Sparks novel. Its truly amazing how they all follow some sort of formula: boy meets girl, one of them pretends to not like the other one, then something happens and out of the blue they are head over heels in love with each other, but it can never work because one of them is super rich and has parents who don't approve of their child being with someone who is not wealthy, but they do anyway in spite of said parents, then everything is great and wonderful for a split second and then someone gets Cancer, or some other life threatening disease and dies. What's amazing about this formula, however, is that even though I called the ending of the movie from the second I saw the trailer, I still read the book and watched the movie with a couple of my girl friends and proceeded to cry like a baby...in a Miley Cyrus movie. Seriously? You have to give Nicholas Sparks some credit, even though they are all the same movie/book, the stories are tailored to pull at your heartstrings, despite how bad the acting may be, and trust me- it is seriously bad acting. 

63. Let It Be (1970)- Michael Lindsay-Hogg

Let It Be Trailer

This time, in my Beatles class, we watched the 1970 documentary which featured the last time the legendary iconic band The Beatles ever performed together live before any sort of audience- the rooftop concert. This documentary, errrr rockumentary features rehearsal footage of the band while they are preparing to record the songs for their final album "Let It Be." This documentary is especially unique and important because the band rarely, if ever allowed anyone (besides those who absolutely had to be there) to be in the room with them while they were recording, let alone a camera crew and a slew of other people. It was interesting to see them working through the various songs, especially knowing that these moments were some of their last together as a band. It was also fascinating to see the shots of Yoko in the background and her effect on the functions and life of the band. Yes, she may have been in the background, but he presence was certainly known. It was great to see the band so genuinely happy and seeming to be playing for no one but themselves. On top of it all they won an Academy Award for best original score! 

62. Never Let Me Go (2010)

Never Let Me Go Trailer

Now, I'm all for the freaky dystopian society movies, but this one just straight up creeped me out...in a good way... The first part of the movie takes place in the late 1970s, following three young children who live at a very strange boarding school which is focused around staying on the grounds and being overly healthy. As the film goes on, and the children grow up, it becomes more and more clear as to why they grew up at this school, it wasn't to grow up and be successful adults, but organ donors instead. In this strange society, there are a group of people who were cloned from other people and are only kept alive until their early 20s when they have to start donating their organs to sick people. They do the donation surgeries in three rounds, with the donor becoming increasingly more sick with each surgery- until they die after the third one. The story was so incredibly unsettling that I felt like I was being stabbed in the stomach the whole time. That being said, Carrey Mulligan, Keira Knightley and Andrew Garfield were all wonderful and added a sense of realism that made it seem like this world was actually possible. As a huge fan of the books "The Giver," and "1984," this was the most realistic dystopian story that I have either seen or read. I feel like it could easily happen, as scary as that sounds. I personally don't know what the future will hold, but I really hope we don't get to that point where we are raising generations of people just to have their lives abruptly cut short, raising children to die. 

61. The Room (1999 or 2003???...typical)- Tommy Wiseau

The Room Trailer

Depending on who you ask, "The Room" is either the greatest film ever made, or the worst excuse for a "movie" ever in the history of film. It is written, produced, edited, and written by Tommy Wiseau who has the strangest accent that I have ever heard in my life. It can only be described as if Nicholas Cage (with black Tarzan hair) attempted to do an eastern European accent while slightly choking on water, while pretending to be a pretentious, sex obsessed psycho. Anyway, I feel like anything I say about this movie won't be doing it justice- besides the fact that it is incredibly hilarious and should only be watched in a large group of people. There are eight minute long sex scenes to obscure/horrible R&B songs, pictures of spoons everywhere, stock footage of San Francisco and other random cities,  actor changes mid film, breast cancer, lies, adultery, a cute red dress, Lisa and Danny or Dinny?... or is it Denny? Either way, all I have to say is that this film deservingly had a $6 million budget because Wiseau didn't know the difference in film and digital, so he shot the movie in both, which is clearly the logical explanation. Now, if you have seen this film (which everyone should because its simply that good) you might be wondering where in the world Mr. Wiseau got the funding from? No need to worry there, he reportedly imported leather jackets from Korea- that just sounds so legal, right? 

60. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

Wet Hot American Summer Trailer


Set in 1981 on the last day at a Jewish summer camp, this is probably one of the most underrated hilarious comedies ever. Whether it is the hyper-sexual post traumatic stress disorder affected Vietnam vet cook, the nerdy, over confident college professor who is convinced that a meteor is headed towards the campsite, or the power hungry duo of Susie and Ben who turn the camp talent show into as big a deal as a Broadway production, this movie takes every stereotype to the extreme without being offensive. The counselors are all having sex with each other, the kids are broken up into different cliques based on their interests, and there is always that kid who doesn't see the need to shower. Every line is belly laugh funny, and should get more recognition, especially seeing as the cast is essentially perfect- Amy Poehler, Molly Shannon, Paul Rudd, Bradley Cooper (his first movie!!), Janeane Garofalo, Christopher Meloni, Elizabeth Banks...need I say more? It is completely worth watching, especially with a group of friends, and it would help if one of them actually went to a Jewish summer camp so they can sit there and tell you how accurate every aspect of the movie is.

59. 27 Dresses (2008)- Anne Fletcher

27 Dresses Trailer

Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. Jane (Katherine Heigl) has embodied this phrase ever since her first wedding when she was a little girl just after her mother died. She had to step in and save the day when the bride's dress ripped all down the back. Ever since then she has been a bridesmaid or maid of honor in 27 weddings (all of which had hideously nasty dresses that the selfish brides forced her to wear..."don't worry you can always shorten it and wear it again." yeah okay). Constantly out shadowed by the brides, Jane is a workaholic mainly because of her sitcom perfect boss, George (Edward Burns). This quickly becomes an underdog story, seeing as George falls in lust with Jane's younger, beautiful, rebellious sister Tess (Malin Akerman) who just happens to bug the shit out of you and who you want to slap across the face and tell her to "grow up! the entire movie. Jane's saving grace through all of the annoying situations with her sister are the commitment columns in her local newspaper written by a Mr. Malcom Doyle (James Marsden). This movie is definitely well written and a total "chick flick," but...
I did have two of my guy friends willingly watching it with me, rooting for Jane along her journey to finally become the person that she has helped so many times during her life- the bride, so go figure! 

58. The Hunger Games (2012)- Gary Ross

The Hunger Games Trailer


No, it is not the new "Twilight." This is not a love story, by any means whatsoever. It is a cautionary tale about the effects of war on a nation. This is set in the future where twenty four boys and girls, ages 11-18 are sent into an arena to fight to the death, with one winner in the end, oh and while the entire world is watching from the comfort of their own homes. It's children killing children, all in the name of remembering what happened during their war. The movie itself was actually very good, with a Tim Burton esque feel at times and a very good cast (Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, etc.) to back up the strangeness. Now, I am probably biased since I read the books in under a week, but I really enjoyed it. I thought it was so much more disturbing to see the events on the screen than to read it in the book. If you stop and think about how upsetting the premise is, you will soon realize how great the story actually is. I have several friends who saw the movie and really enjoyed it even if they hadn't read the books- definitely worth it. 

57. Miss Congeniality (2000)- Donald Petrie

Miss Congeniality Trailer

This movie is unfortunately a complete guilty pleasure of mine. It is part drama, action and rom com with a guest appearance by Michael Caine, and who doesn't love Michael Caine? Also, respect to Sandra Bullock for taking a role in which in the first part of the movie she has to act and look completely grimy. Bullock plays Agent Gracie Hart, who completely epically fails during a mission which nearly causes a complete disaster. This causes her next assignment to be one in which she must go undercover as a beauty pageant queen who competes in the Miss United States pageant in order to prevent it from being blown up. It is very funny and charming, as she is not feminine in any way, shape, or form and must transform into the ultimate idealized symbol of femininity- a pageant girl. 

56. The Blind Side (2009)- John Lee Hancock

The Blind Side Trailer

There is a reason that this is my eight year old brother's favorite movie. The story of Michael Oher and the Tuohy family proves that there are many different ways to make a family, even if the members of the family don't look the same, or are from the same biology. Sandra Bullock was incredible Leigh Ann Tuohy, the Ole Miss grad, sports obsessed, wealthy southern mother who took in the basically orphaned Michael and gave him not only his first bed, but a home and love. The most magical part about this story is that it is based on the actual life of Michael Oher and the family that gave him a life and a chance. Bullock deservingly won an Academy Award for her role in this film, which literally makes me cry every time I watch it. It's a great movie for the whole family that teaches about love, dedication and acceptance. 

55. Imagine: John Lennon (1988)- Andrew Solt

Imagine: Part 1

Yesterday in my class on the Beatles, we watched the documentary about John Lennon made by John and his Japanese artist wife, Yoko Ono. Throughout their years together, the couple definitely caused some major controversy whether it was their "sleep ins" instead of sit ins, or John's terrible parenting skills when it came to his first son. I think I might be the only one that thinks this, but I felt like it kind of made Lennon seem like an asshole. He was rude to fans and yes, he is THE John Lennon, but for such a public figure, he really let his fame go to his head in a bad way. Anyway, I thought it was very well made and showed a very personal side to John and Yoko's relationship. The clips were mostly from their own personal home movies, as almost a video blog which was interesting because I know that personally, I didn't really know about or understand their relationship and it was great to see it from their perspective and not that of the media. Interesting movie, worth seeing!

54. Like Crazy (2011)- Drake Doremus

Like Crazy Trailer

I wanted to like it because Ingrid Michaelson's version of "Fools Rush In" in the trailer was incredible. I tried to like it because it was about people my age, and the troubles of growing up. The story was relatable: a tale about naive, wonderful first love, and the difficulties that comes along with it. I wasn't crazy about it though. It was something about the "Groundhog Day" like quality it had to it: each scene pretty much mirrored the one before it, but in an annoying push and pull, come here, I love you, go away, I hate you, no come back here...kind of way. The actors were alright, not spectacular, but definitely fine. If they didn't try to be so damn artsy, this movie would have potential. But no, I didn't want it, I didn't need it, and I certainly didn't love, or miss it.

53. 21 Jump Street (2012)

21 Jump Street Trailer

Channing Tatum as the incredibly handsome, hilariously stupid, popular jock in high school, sexy cop is literally the perfect role for him. This film was so ridiculously funny and very well casted. I liked that even though it was based off of the old television show from the late 80s, it stands on its own, completely separate from the t.v. series. Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill play two cops who are basically complete failures and are transferred to the undercover division, where they have to pose as high school students and locate the supplier of a new drug that is being circulated. Basically, they're total narcs who get too caught up in life in high school. Let's be honest though, who doesn't love seeing Channing Tatum shoot a gun, if that isn't a reason to see this movie, then I don't know what is!

52. The Lorax (2012)- Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda

The Lorax Trailer

"I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues." The Lorax is one of, if not my favorite of Dr. Seuss' tales. It follows the protector of the forrest, the Lorax (aka God), and his quest to be the voice of the animals, and those who cannot speak for themselves, the trees. It is cautionary story about protecting the environment, because everyone benefits from each other, and needs to do so for survival. It also shows that if you become greedy and chop down a bunch of trees, you will end up living in a dark land, in a creepy house by yourself, with an outfit that makes the Keebler elves look stylish. Anyway, this movie was very cute, and definitely worth seeing. The only issue I had was that the cast's voices were too recognizable for anyone over like 9. With Danny Devito as the "Lorax," all I could picture was a scene in "Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia"...with a huge 70s 'stache. 

51. Project X (2012)- Nima Nourizadeh

Project X Trailer

This movie had potential, it really did. The idea was great: a mockumentary about a bunch of jackass, hormonal, dorky teenage boys who will do just about anything to be "cool" for just one night. Too bad this subject has been way overdone, and by movies that actually had plots, go figure! The camera was way too shaky, even for a  supposed documentary, and made it nearly impossible to watch. Also, when over 1,500 underage high school students throw a party outside, with an incredibly loud DJ, flames, and just overall screaming- someone would call the cops, and they wouldn't just leave without kicking everyone out. Whether it be a neighbor, or a random person driving past the house, the severity of the damage in this movie is just unrealistic because it would never get to this point in real life. Okay, so I'll give them a broken window, or hole in the drywall, but not some idiot showing up with a blow torch- who does that? Also, the unrecognizable cast of "nobody's" would have been successful, if any of the characters would have been likable. They were all disgusting, and misogynistic, to the point that when Thomas' house was being wrecked, I didn't even feel badly for him at all. This movie isn't worth seeing, unless you are really craving to waste your money, and time, and develop a killer migraine.

50. Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey (2011)- Constance Marks, Phillip Shane

Being Elmo Trailer

As cliché as it, is: Don't judge a book by its cover. Because that book walking down the street, just looking like an average Joe, could, in fact, be the voice and self behind one of the most iconic figures in the world, Elmo. This is an eye opening documentary about the man (er hand?) within the puppet. Unlike other children his age, who probably wanted to be professional athletes, or doctors, lawyers, when they were older, Kevin Clash grew up watching the Muppets and idolizing its indescribably talented creator, Jim Henson. He wanted to not only be a puppeteer, but work with Jim and his team. This documentary chronicles the life of Kevin Clash, and the impact that he, as Elmo, has had on the world. It is incredibly moving to see how purely genuine Clash is, and the "clash" between his actual voice, and the voice of his three year old, monster alter ego, Elmo. 

49. KONY 2012 (2012)- Invisible Children (29 mins.)

KONY 2012

Imagine a world in which your son, daughter, sister, or brother was taken from their home, sold into sex slavery, given a gun and told to fight for nothing but the power of one man. This is the world that we live in in the year 2012. Joseph Kony is the leader of the LRA (Lord's Resistance Army) in Uganda. Kony goes from house to house, kidnapping young children, and turning them into child soldiers, forcing them to murder their families and follow him. The young boys are given guns to fight with, while the girls are brutally raped and sold into sex slavery. He is recognized as the world's worst criminal, and needs to be stopped. He has taken over 30,000 children over the years, and brutally massacred thousands of innocent people and villages, and those he does not kill are mutilated. Why has a man so Hitler-esque never been stopped in the 25 years he has been in power? Is it because since it isn't in the United States, politicians think it doesn't matter? In reality, we are all one world, and no one person is more or less important than any other one. In order for Kony to be captured, the governments of the world have to know that we care. In the words of the Beatles, "I'm talking about a revolution." 

48. Wanderlust (2012)- David Wain

Wanderlust Trailer

Oh man, this movie. So incredibly wrong...and yet, so right. This was not a "good" movie by any stretch of the imagination, but for some strange reason I belly laughed the entire time and found myself immediately quoting it afterwards and laughing to myself when thinking of certain scenes. Jennifer Aniston and Paul Rudd are very funny as the easily influenced couple that always believes that there is something better out there. They come across some hilariously real scenarios, such as a "commune" filled with hippies, an asshole brother who wears his cell phone on a belt clip, and many different jobs. Every single line in the film is ridiculous, especially if you know anything about the hippie culture and lifestyle. The cast is great, and overall definitely worth seeing at least seventeen times. I feel like it has the Napoleon Dynamite affect, the first time you see it, it's stupid. But then you get home from the theatre and it keeps creeping up on you, and you can't stop thinking about it, and have a crazy urge to see it over and over again. 

47. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)- Blake Edwards

Breakfast at Tiffany's Trailer

The classic black dress, tiara, long cigarette holder and pearls. The classic look that has inspired generations of fashion an glamor was featured in this iconic romantic comedy/drama about a daft New York socialite (Audrey Hepburn) and the juvenile relationships she forms with various men. This is by far Hepburn's most famous role, and her most challenging, seeing as she was normally very shy, which is the complete opposite of this role. The story is complex and sparks all different emotions from the viewer. The screenplay is based off of the famous novella by Truman Capote of the same name. I love this film. It has a witty charm to it, but at the same time it was slightly disturbing seeing as the main character Holly Golightly (Hepburn) is oblivious in a scary way. Anyway, this movie is one of Hollywood's classics and is a must see for anyone. Seriously. Watch it.

46. Death At a Funeral (2007)- Frank Oz

Death at a Funeral Trailer


Oh British comedy...you never fail to amuse me. This movie was very stereotypical of British humor: raunchy, belly laugh funny, gross at times, and often times just straight up wrong. This was a very smart comedy about a highly dysfunctional family, and their inability to keep secrets. I laughed out loud this entire movie. Each scene had a different twist that was even better than the previous one. From the accidental ingestion of hallucinogenic drugs, to crazy sibling rivalry over a eulogy, to the murder of a stranger at the funeral, to the inappropriate nudity, I felt more and more uncomfortable (in a good way) about the fact that these events were all taking place at the funeral of the patriarch of this absurd family. This movie was so funny that it sparked a Hollywood remake just two years later, but don't watch it, it completely pales in comparison to the hilarious original!

45. The September Issue (2008)- R.J. Cutler

The September Issue Trailer

Forget every preconceived notion that you previously had about the fashion industry. Down to the pair of socks that you are wearing, someone, probably named Anna Wintour, subconsciously influenced your decision when you picked them out this morning. This was an incredibly eye opening documentary about the most important issue of any magazine that is put out each year - the September issue of American Vogue, and the amazing amount of work and thought that goes into each edition. Within its 200 some pages, contains what Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington decide are going to be the hot trends for the next year. I would like to say that this film showed a more humane, nice side to Ms. Wintour, but it obviously didn't (it IS Anna Wintour we're talking about here). What it did show, however, was that whether we realize it or not, we are all merely subjects of Queen Wintour in this incredibly communist fashion society.

44. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)- Tom Stoppard

R&G Are Dead- Questions Tennis


So, last week my Shakespeare's Tragic Heroes class started reading, "Hamlet." Because of this stressful and overwhelming endeavor, and at the request of my mother, I decided to seek out some comic relief in this witty comedy/drama about the most important minor characters in Hamlet. This version of the story is focused on Rosencrantz (Gary Oldman) and Guildenstern (Tim Roth), and their role in the story of Hamlet, which is incredibly more important than they think, what with carrying his death sentence and all on their way to England and causing the confrontation between Hamlet and Claudius. They are transported back and forth between being in the actions of the real play, and trying to figure out why Hamlet is acting so strange. It is a very funny take on this tragedy. The two goons somehow manage to comment on important philosophical topics during their seemingly nonsensical rambling. Plus, this is the first time I'd ever seen a game of "Question tennis," and it was probably one of the funniest scenes in a movie- ever.

43. Animal house (1978)- John Landis

Animal House Trailer

So, after being offered a bid to an amazing sorority three weeks ago, my friends and I decided that we just had to watch this hilariously raunchy iconic film about fraternity life. This film follows the cluster-cuss that is the Delta Tau Chi fraternity, and Dean Wormer's efforts to shut them down. Whether it is the horrendously low grade point averages, having sex with younger women, drinking to a point of oblivion, throwing a "toga party," ridiculous nicknames "Bluto," or charmingly serenading women with guitars, this movie invented frat stereotypes and inspired many other movies and college parties over the years. The stellar cast, including John Belushi, Kevin Bacon, and Tim Matheson, to name a few, made this movie into more than a film about some insane, party obsessed college boys, to a legendary tale about sticking it to the man!

42. Moneyball (2011)- Bennett Miller

Moneyball Trailer

It is no surprise that this movie is nominated for not one, but six Academy Awards this year. The Academy loves sports movies based on a true story, and when actors who mainly do comedy switch and take on more dramatic roles (cough Jonah Hill). I thought the story was very interesting, and well documented. It showed the perfect amount of real baseball footage, old men talking about the "looks" of different players, and Billy Beane's (Brad Pitt) family life. I learned a lot about the behind the scenes aspect to baseball, the scouting, the empty promises, and all of the gambling that goes into running a team. It depicted a different kind of struggle than other sports movies, meaning that there wasn't the whole, "washed up has-been overcoming obstacles to get back into the game" plot, but rather the manager's struggle to create something out of nothing. It was really well made, and definitely deserving of all its nominations. Plus, Brad Pitt is still a super hottie...

41. Let Me In (2010) - Matt Reeves

Let Me In Trailer

This is so much more than a just a vampire movie. Yes, it is a movie about a young girl vampire, but it is so much more substantial than simply that. This quiet film is about a lonely, troubled young boy, Owen, who falls in love with the only person who seems to understand him, a young girl named Abby, who just happens to be a vampire. I don't even think of this as a "vampire movie," but rather, one that explores the idea of innocent friendship and love, without judgement. Yes, Abby does have a father who is a serial killer who murders people and drains their blood to keep her "alive," but that is all in the name of saving his daughter. Or was he also her childhood love and he grew up because he wasn't a vampire and she is? Anyway... visually, this movie is stunning, with a dark, neo-noir like color scheme, seeing as most of the movie takes place at night. It is based off of a Swedish movie called, "Let the Right One In," and it is virtually identical to the original. It is definitely worth seeing, and will probably turn into a cult classic. It was refreshing to see a horror film about vampires that actually had substance, and was scary without being gross. Well, I mean, it was gross what with the blood, but it was still a beautiful love story as well.