Posted by VeraCruz at cache1.gw.utexas.edu on May 16, 2000 at 14:40:47:
Hello all,
Since this is a stomping grounds of film geeks, I thought I would ask everyones favorite movies of the year so far. Surprisingly, there been some good flicks to come down the assembly line so far. Here are some of my faves (in no particular order)
"High Fidelity"--easily the best of the year so far. A loving tribute to that portion of society that love to obsess over music and film (I'm sure none of you guys know anyone like that.) If anything, the film confirmed what we already knew, that Jack Black is one of the coolest men on the damn planet. Now when is that Tenacious D album coming out?
"Titus"--this one didnt hit wide release until 2000, so it still counts. What a wonderful use of set design and art direction. Julie Taymor takes what is thought to be Shakespeares worst play and turns it into a twisted, bizzare, and violent experience. Top it off with agreat performance by Sir Anthony, and you've got yourself a great movie. If all of Shakespeares plays were like this, I might have spent more time studying in High School, and less time masterbating.
"The Filth and the Fury"--Even if you're not a fan of the Sex Pistols, this film tells one of the most facinating stories in the history of Rock and Roll. The touching story of four young lads meeting in a bondage sex boutique and forming a loud, obnoxious band that would go on to scare the hell out of upper class white people the world over.
"Gladiator"--I was worrying that Ridley might not have had another good movie in him, but he has proved me wrong. Not much to say about this one that hasnt been recently discussed on this board. A great revenge story with exhilarating action sequences and a performance by the new King of the Bad-ass-Mother-Fuckers, Russell Crowe.
Honorable Mentions (not great, but good, solid flciks
"Rules of Engagement"
"American Psycho"
"The Ninth Gate" (check this one out on video when you get the chance, unfairly overlooked in my opinion.)
The Bad (only two films Ive seen this year that have really insulted my intelligence and made me prey for a tornado to hit the theater)
"Mission To Mars"
"U-571" (I know a lot of people dig this movie, but I would rather make sweet love to a tractor than watch this again.)