Going to school to study television is the best thing I could have ever done. I doubt I'll be saying this in two years upon graduation, but right now I'll just enjoy watching movies in class.
I took care of the burden that is scrolling through Netflix and generously left you with a list of the most visually pleasing, uniquely crafted and overall most entertaining films on the site at the moment. (At least the ones I've seen and can vouch for. Obv.)
Directed by Dan Gilroy
A brilliant performance by Jake Gyllenhaal as he provides the story of a journalist in this cynical reality. A dark thriller that'll captivate by each meticulous moment.
"American Beauty" (1999)
Directed by Sam Mendes
With an Academy Award for Best Picture under its belt, American Beauty is a haunting classic film that stunningly captures the fall of a man under the grips of the American dream. Loaded with symbolism and incredible detail in every scene, everyone should watch this movie at some point in their life, as if looking at Kevin Spacey is a chore.
"Punch-Drunk Love" (2002)
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
This made me well up like a baby. I even had to pause it when the writing was too fire. This movie also made me say the words "Adam Sandler deserves an Oscar." No matter the content you are constantly engulfed in the story through the visual narrative. Not only are the visuals outstanding, but the score and audio transform the message into a transcendent experience.
"Inglourious Basterds" (2009)
Directed by Quentin Tarantino
Chock full of my favorite things (history, Christoph Waltz, French cinemas, Blind Man's Bluff, Brad Pitt and a homicidal Eli Roth), this Tarantino thriller is just that. Surprises and wild effects at every turn, this film is a visual treat with a strong narrative.
"Moonrise Kingdom" (2012)
Directed by Wes Anderson
Wes Anderson's illustrated and fantastical realities always make for a visual treat. Moonrise Kingdom contains the usual big-leaguers (Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Bruce Willis), along with its two main characters, young lovers with old souls.
"Trainspotting" (1996)
Directed by Danny Boyle
This movie has one of my favorite opening scenes ever, on top of the film as a whole being one of my favorites of all time. We follow Renton (Ewan McGregor) and his gang of misfits into a heroin induced ride to sobriety. There is no way this masterpiece won't leave you completely satisfied. "Trainspotting" goes on my list of "movies every human being needs to watch before they turn 30".
"Lawless" (2012)
Directed by John Hillcoat
Honestly, it checks out. This Tom Hardy thriller sets in Moonshine county during prohibition in the United States. The effects set this film apart, making it a graphic representation of the good ol' boys defending the U-S-of-A.
"Amélie" (2001)
Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeaunet
This French classic is truly a cinematic work of art. The colors, dialogue, edits, shots and sound combine intrinsically throughout the film and make for a completely fulfilling story experience. A fun and quirky flick that makes you think.
"Hot Fuzz" (2007)
Directed by Edgar Wright
I highly recommend any film directed by Edgar Wright. The "Shaun of the Dead" director implements visual comedy and impeccable dialogue to create fun, exciting thrillers that move and entertain.
"Django Unchained" (2012)
Directed by Quentin Tarantino
Another movie containing MORE of my favorite things (Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, awesome and thoughtful visuals), my second Tarantino movie on this list is definitely a must-see. A disturbed spaghetti western, this action-packed thriller is a two-hour long adrenaline rush.
"Silver Linings Playbook" (2012)
Directed by David O. Russell
If you haven't seen this mesmerizing romantic drama starring the world's two hottest people, I'm a little concerned and I would drop everything and watch it now. Jennifer Lawrence's Oscar winning performance brought attention to this star-studded tribute to modern filmmaking.
