...I do know a good movie when I see it. My preference gravitates toward indie and foreign films. They're interesting, don't feature overpaid actors and tend to be more creative. I'm not trying to be a cinema snob, but I like to watch movies that require you to actually pay attention to what is happening. A couple of nights ago I watched Once, a movie that has been touted as one of the best of 2007. There's not much action or plot. Actually, there is no action or plot. It's a relationship movie, so if you need visual stimulation to keep you interested, this may not be the movie for you. It's about two musicians, both at a crossroads in their respective relationships, who join forces and, literally, make beautiful music together. I won't say much more. You'll have to judge for yourself and let me know what you think. Here's a small list of some of my favorite films - indie, foreign and mainstream. (I've been doing a lot of movie watching lately.)

Scotland, PA - A modern day Hamlet set in a hamburger diner.
The Station Agent - Another friendship movie starring the self-absorbed dwarf author from the movie Elf.
The Barbarian Invasions - A film set in Quebec about a son and his dying father.
Ran - Japanese version of King Lear.
Little Miss Sunshine - Some may find it offensive. I find it rolling-on-the-floor hilarious.
Transamerica - Good dialogue and watching Felicity Huffman play a man in drag who wants to become a woman is quite humorous.
Grease - Who doesn't love this movie?

There are a ton of movies that I could mention. I love all James Dean flicks - all three of them that is. And anything with John Cusack tops my list. I need some suggestions - recycling the old flicks can get boring. Send me your lists!

Labels: cinema, movies