My All-Time Favorite Movies and Why They Matter

Hi, Aman here. I love movies, and there are a few that have left a lasting impact on me. In this article, we'll take a look at some of my favorite movies and why they are special.

The Little Women: Girl Should Marry in a Certain Way

The Little Women is based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott and tells the story of four sisters growing up during the American Civil War. The film explores themes of love, marriage, and family. Although it may not be considered a 'good movie' by everyone, it holds a special place in the hearts of many who find the message to be timeless.

Break

Break, or more accurately, Break: The Price of McLanahan, is a remarkable portrayal of resilience and self-preservation. This film delves into the harsh realities of poverty and the way it can shape a person's life. It's a powerful story that reminds us of the strength within us to overcome difficulties. It's often considered one of the most honest and unflinching films about the struggles of lower-income families.

Fitzcarraldo

Fitzcarraldo is a masterpiece that you should watch. It tells the story of a man's absurd and utterly entertaining quest to drag a giant steamship over a mountain in the Amazon. This film is not only visually stunning but also rich in drama and social commentary. It's a unique and exhilarating viewing experience.

3 Idiots

3 Idiots, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, is a compelling narrative based on the book Five Point Someone by Chetan Bhagat. The story revolves around three friends and their struggles within the Indian education system. The film blends humor, drama, and a powerful message about following one's passion. It critically examines the system and focuses on the lives of students from IITs and engineering backgrounds, presenting Rancho Amir Khan as a philosopher. The iconic dialogues and memorable performances make it a 'must-watch'.

A Theatrical Atheist's Choice: The Nun's Story

As an atheist, you might find my choice of The Nun's Story surprising, but this film is one of the ones I've watched the most. Audrey Hepburn plays the title role, and the story is set in the interwar period between World War I and World War II, in both Belgium and the Belgian Congo. The life of someone so different from myself, combined with the compelling story and strong acting, makes this film a standout. It is closely followed by two other films: Gosford Park, a comedic murder mystery set in the 1930s, and Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, an adventure film set in the Napoleonic era based on books by Patrick O'Brian. In all these cases, it is a great story, well-acted, and well-scripted.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is one of the early favorites for me. I still remember the first time I watched it on TBS during a Clint Eastwood movie marathon. Clint Eastwood's use of music, the characters, and the action all contribute to the film's epic feel. It's a timeless classic that never fails to deliver.

Casablanca

Casablanca is a true classic. Humphrey Bogart's portrayal of Rick Blaine is intense, and I remember learning to appreciate Ingrid Bergman's performance. Arthur Kennedy is also a standout in his role as Louis Leszczynski. The film's impact is further enhanced by the fact that Alex Trebek mentioned he had seen it 150 times, and it was frequently played on Turner Classic Movies. A visit to a movie theater where the patrons in the cafe sang the French National Anthem during the film left a memorable impression. The film is a poignant reflection of the human spirit and the power of storytelling. It's a great movie, well done, and a testament to the impact of great actors and an enthralling script.