Let me begin by saying that these are not in order. I think being able to distinguish and order these films would be close to impossible. There are probably hundreds of films that didn't make it to this list that are very close to my heart. These films would be, I guess, the closest but not necessarily better than those that didn't make it to the list.
1. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)
This a great example of the kind of humor that I love. This is my definition of a "feel-good" film. This movie, the characters, and the style and execution of Wes Anderson is just very close to my heart. It is surely one of the greatest influences in my concept of storytelling.
2. The Beach (2000)
Aside from the good story, what this movie will be able to give you is ideology. And that is a sign of a truly effective movie: it conveys a message. A message that will stick to you long after you've seen the film. There is more to life, there is more to what has been taught to us, there are alternatives. It will challenge most of our preconceived notions most especially our concept of travel.
3. I Heart Huckabees (2004)
Existentialism is not a hard concept to understand and this film tackles the different concepts and conflicting ideas about it. Basically, it tackles all the questions and anxieties about "be-ing" or existing and it does so in a very entertaining and funny way. Surely one of my all-time favorites.
4. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
I think to fully understand this film, one must first know who Hunter S. Thompson is and how his works has affected American politics and history. For those who don't know, I suggest you watch documentaries Gonzo or Breakfast with Hunter. After being introduced to his style of "gonzo journalism" you will see beyond the trippy and drugged experience of the whole film. For me, it is something that is somewhat a contrast from typical society and can really teach us to have a new perspective and to have a more open mind.
5. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Of course, I am very much influenced by Quentin Tarantino's style of film-making and storytelling. The reason I chose this one is because it is the one I can relate to the most. Perhaps because it is the most recent one. What I mean is that I found it to be more entertaining than Pulp Fiction for instance because it is more recent and relevant to my time. The humor and entertainment you will get from this film is astonishing and it is combined with Tarantino's masterful style. Plus, the conversations and plot is testament to his superb writing skill.
6. Pi (1998)
At first, I couldn't choose between this one or Requiem for a Dream. But then in the end, I chose the one that best portrays Darren Arronofsky's skill and style that has surely influenced me so much. Probably the greatest influence in my editing and sequencing. This movie is the type that will mess up your mind and reality. Its grainy black and white film just adds to the whole experience of this movie. That's probably it: it is more than just a movie--it is also an experience.
7 Into the Wild (2007)
Another film that deals with ideology and changing the way we think. This is probably more on the story and character than film-making. It is a very inspiring movie that will change many preconceived concepts you already have. It stoke one's love for travel and adventure and even change the very definitions and concept of what "travel and adventure" really means.
8. The Machinist (2004)
Aside from Christian Bale's shocking weight loss for this film, this movie is very close to my heart because of its story and character development. It is this man vs himself struggle, sort of a psychological suspense that will mess up your mind. The cinematography and colors are also all so beautiful. An all-time favorite that is very close to my heart.
9. The Brothers Bloom (2008)
This is probably something I would consider a great masterpiece when it comes to storytelling and cinematic style. It is truly an inspiration. I already made a review about it in a previous post if you want to see why I love this film.
10. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
A film that I watched only recently but instantly made it to this list. This is a movie that gives you an experience of the whole emotional spectrum. It will make you feel happiness, sadness, anger, fear, remorse, and of course redemption. I felt very emotional after watching this film and really made me contemplate on the concepts of life, sociology, and justice. This is a mark of a truly brilliant and effective film.
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