The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire overcomes its formulaic roots through powerful acting from its lead and supporting actors and the introduction of themes that are applicable to all audiences.
The Lunchbox
Comedy, unique storytelling, and solid side characters build The Lunchbox into a great film, worth watching despite its lack of conclusive ending and its potentially problematic central relationship.
The Master
The Master’s visuals, acting, and the symbiosis of its leading performances make it worth watching.
Remember the Night
Decent comedy and an original story help the holiday romance of Remember the Night elevate itself above some other romantic comedies; however, the problematic issues that arise from its 1940s-era politics and social commentary are difficult to ignore.
Road to Perdition
Suspending disbelief about Tom Hanks’s ability to be a violent killer is necessary to fully enjoy Road to Perdition, but the film’s strong relational commentaries and juxtapositions and its well-crafted conflict reward viewers.
Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
Good supporting performances and compelling ethical questions help elevate Murder on the Orient Express above its annoying protagonist and relatively methodical mystery story.
The Hate U Give
The Hate U Give does its best to present an honest picture of modern issues for modern audiences, featuring solid performances as it does so.
Imitation of Life (1959)
Imitation of Life’s positive notes might not be enough to vault it onto everyone’s must-watch list, but the performances of its supporting actresses keep it in the list of Greatest Films of All Time.
Now Voyager
Strong female performances, relatable family issues, and a positive portrayal of female independence help this film overcome certain problematic norms and confusing storytelling to make it on the list of Greatest Films.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
With well-written, if dated, songs and dance numbers, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers manages to entertain despite some questionable choices.
Things to Come
Well-acted and filled with references to French philosophy and questions about modern issues and how we approach the future, Things to Come is a simple but solid watch.
After the Storm
Strong and rewarding story, consistent lead acting performance, and a simple and wholesome soundtrack define After the Storm as a film.
Eraserhead
David Lynch’s Eraserhead contains an atmosphere of oppression and unease that makes it an impressive horror film that does more than just unnerve its viewers.
Born into Brothels
Born into Brothels challenges the viewer to care for the poor and destitute and also paints a picture of the universality of the human condition through the words of the children whose stories it highlights.
Ex Libris: The New York Public Library
An extensive deep dive into all the inner workings of the New York library system, Ex Libris provides viewers with a broader understanding of the importance of public libraries and the many services that they offer.
Nights of Cabiria
Nights of Cabiria rewards a dedicated viewer with empathetic acting, a meaningful story, and a score that accentuates the film well.