MOVIE NIGHT

What type of movies do you enjoy? I like movies that either make me feel good or make me think or make me laugh. And if it is too violent for children, it’s too violent for me. I don’t mind bad language or a little sex in movies but I’m not a fan of anything scary, dark or intense. I much prefer to watch a movie for a little fun escapism from daily life.

The other day I wondered what would be my top five favorite movies? I didn’t put any genres on them, new or old, comedy or drama. Just write down the first five that came to mind. Surprisingly, it was remarkably easy. I do apparently have five favorite flicks. Oddly enough, they are all over the spectrum. So, in no particular order here are my top five favorite movies of all time. What are yours?

1. Bridges of Madison County

I know, I know. This is a real chick flick but, oh, how I love this movie. To me, it was so thought provoking on so many levels depending on where I was in my life. The love story of Francesca & Robert over three days that lasted a lifetime is enthralling. When Lou & I visited Iowa, I HAD to see the real Bridges of Madison County…..and I wasn’t alone. Other women there were wandering around in awe & the men were thinking, “What the hell is this about?”

2. The Big Chill

Being a product of the 60s, this movie talks to me. I love all the quirky characters. I can’t imagine “loaning” my husband to one of my best friends to conceive a child for her. But the camaraderie of friends with a history is appealing & this movie has a fantastic soundtrack! My favorite scene is when they are all putting food away after dinner, clearing the table & loading the dishwasher while dancing around the kitchen to “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by the Temptations.

3. Rainman

I’ve been a fan of Tom Cruise ever since he strutted & lip-synced to “Old Time Rock ‘n Roll” in his skivvies in Risky Business (although he has gotten a little weird lately). It was the offbeat storyline & the relationship that developed between autistic Charlie Babbit & his brother Raymond on a cross country trip that drew me into this feel good film.

4. Beverly Hills Cop

This has to be one of the best comedies in forever. It showcases the talents of Eddie Murphy perfectly! The supporting cast was wonderful, too – I loved Taggert & Rosewood. My son & I watched this movie many, many times. He had the entire thing memorized & would do every character flawlessly along with Axel Foley. The scene where Axel is getting the Beverly Hills Hotel clerk to give him a room is hysterical.

5. Sunset Boulevard

This old black & white film starring Gloria Swanson & William Holden is captivating. Who can forget the immortal line of fading silent movie star Norma Desmond saying, “I’m ready for my close up Mr. DeMille?” There are so many things that were ahead of its time – such as an older woman taking a younger lover. The over the top acting that was part of a bygone era really add to the overall effect of this classic.