A beautifully shot and emotionally tender portrayal of the greatest tragedy in modern history. Spielberg directs this gigantic film with the care and delicacy that can only come from a director with his amount of experience. Not a single shot is wasted in this film, the craftsmanship is truly amazing.Aside from the the excellent direction, the performances are universally excellent, the soundtrack is one of the greatest I have ever heard, and the pacing beggars belief. Perhaps the most engaging three hour film ever made (although I would need to rewatch Seven Smaurai to confirm that).
Fargo (1996, The Coen Brothers)
The Coen's are such inventive filmmakers, I doubt that there is any genre that they could not turn there skills towards. This film in particular is one of the cleverest uses of the noir format, a charming and deeply subversive take on one of the most influential genres of all time. The thing that makes this film so wonderful is its overall message and purpose. Despite their cynical worldview, the Coen's show an incredible optimism in this film, a belief in the good nature in humanity that comes though the main character (played by Francis Mcdormand) so incredibly strongly.
This is basically a film that makes me feel happy to be alive, through an amazing lead performance and some excellent writing from the Coen's.
Boogie Nights (1997, Paul Thomas Anderson)
Paul Thomas Anderson is a shining god. Every single film I have seen of his has been a masterpiece. This film in particular is one of the most poignant and engaging multi-character epics I have ever seen, and proof positive that a great artist can make any subject compelling.Within the confines of the California porn industry during the late seventies/early eighteen PTA fills his story with humour, tragedy, heartbreak and heart. In terms of sheer strength of narrative, this is one of the absolute greatest films I have ever seen.
Also, the performances and dialogue are both incredible across the board.
The Big Lebowski (1998, The Coen Brothers)
The most quotable film ever made. Just...beyond fascinating in every way, I just want to dissect this film and rewatch it endlessly because absolutely everything about its frantic and wild story is spot-on perfect. Not a single scene fails to connect, and I genuinely think I could watch this film on an endless loop.
I don't even think I can articulate this film any further, it has just become a part of me in a way that no other film has.
By Jack D. Phillips
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