Movies are always a treat for any age group. It takes us to the surreal world that relieves us from the daily tensions of reality. It could be considered as a mode of relaxation as well as a source of entertainment. However, today movie viewing is considered more of an experience with the home theatre system and the multiplex culture being introduced. So, in order to get the best out of it, make sure you choose the best of the lot. Although, we strongly recommend the following movies for you -
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)– One of the best in its genre, the movie beautifully depicts the journey of a man from being a top notch banker to being a prisoner and finally emerging out as the one who sets up a library at the Shawshank prison. The movie talks about hope and the never ending quest of the protagonist. A complex story narrated very subtly, this one is a must watch for those looking for something unique. Above all, the fact that an individual has the strength to make a difference to the society if he wants to, is also highlighted quite prominently. In addition to this, brilliant performances by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman are cherry on the cake.
The Godfather (1972)– The great Marlon Brando, the young and handsome Al Pacino, and the beautiful Diane Keaton – what else would you want? A masterpiece by Francis Ford Coppola based on the book by Mario Puzo of the same name. This can be truly considered as one of the best films ever made on mafia, which no other movie could yet match up to.
The Godfather II (1974)– The story of the Corleone family continues in this second offering by Coppola. The two parallel stories have been aptly balanced giving due weightage to both of them. So it is both a sequel as well as a prequel with Vito Corleone rising to power in the mafia. An excellent movie, no less than its prequel.
Schindler's List – This masterpiece from Steven Spielberg is about a man named Oscar Schindler and his quest for rescuing the Jews from the gas chamber of the Nazis. Being a Nazi himself, he is a man of power which he uses to save people. Set in the times of the second world war, the movie portrays the dark realities that actually happened in that era making it a must watch. Also, the movie being shot in black and white adds more brilliance to its originality.
Pulp Fiction (1994) – This Quentin Tarantino film is the perfect mix of pop, comedy and violence. Known for its dialogues, the film was a big success being nominated at the Academy Awards for 7 Oscars and won the Oscar for the Best Original Screenplay as well. The film introduced a new genre in itself which was a blend of everything in perfect balance.
Ben Hur (1959)– One of the three movies to have actually won 11 Academy Awards at the Oscars, this beautifully crafted movie is a classic tale of a Jewish Prince who becomes a slave when the Romans invade. The movie is best known for its action sequences in spite of the fact that not much technical assistance was available in those days.
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (1966) – The epic film which depicts the spaghetti western genre with Clint Eastwood in one of his most remarkable movies ever. The movie takes you on a roller coaster ride with three gun men in search of gold, evading numerous conflicts on their way that includes spectacular scenes of gun fights, prison camps, war battles and utter chaos. Directed by Sergio Leone, it brought in the new culture of violence being considered as cool and chic.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)- An insight of a hospital from a prisoner's eyes. This movie is about a convict who chooses to serve his time in a hospital rather than going to prison. The encounters that he has with the patients and his timely conflicts with the hospital nurse is a touching story to watch out for. The movie was a favourite at the Oscars sweeping away all the major categories.
2001: A Space Odyssey(1968) – If you are looking for a retreat in science fiction, then make sure you watch this movie dealing with artificial intelligence, the evolution of mankind, extraterrestrial life and other such untouched subjects of that time. Even though the film was made way back in the late 60s, the special effects used in this movie are at par with the age depicted making it one of the best ever sci–fi movies till date.
Citizen Kane (1941) – Based on the newspaper tycoon Charles Foster Kane and a group of journos trying to find out the meaning of the last word the man uttered – 'Rosewood', the movie is a gripping tale of a man and his claim to fame. A must watch for you to find out what happens.
So, what are you waiting for, grab the DVDs now, a bucket of popcorns and be the couch potato. It doesn't get better than this !