We all have that one genre of movie that we’re obsessed with. For some of us, it’s romantic comedies, for others, an action packed thriller. However, it’s no question that movie watchers of all ages need to branch out and explore the film critic part of their brain. While you may be stubborn and set in stone about your horror movies and how nothing will ever be any better than those, have an open mind while exploring new movies because the ones listed below should watched at least once in a lifetime.
1. Schindler’s List
Before you watch this movie, set aside a box of tissues because this one’s a tearjerker. Exploring the depths of the Holocaust, this movie showcases Oskar Schindler, a man who is credited for saving the lives of approximately 1,200 Jews. The entire film is black and white, except for one little girl’s jacket, which symbolized with the color red. While this film may be a little disturbing and hard to watch, it is very informative of the events that went on before and during the Holocaust.
2. The Shawshank Redemption
“Get busy living, or get busy dying.” That is just one memorable quote from this movie based from a short story written by Stephen King. Told from the point of view of Andy Dufresne, this film shows the story of how he spends nineteen years in jail after getting convicted of his wife’s murder. Throughout the film’s entirety, you never know if Andy is guilty or innocent until the very end. I’ll withhold any spoilers just in case you haven’t seen it yet.
3. Sling Blade
This film follows the story of Karl Childers, played by Billy Bob Thornton, a mentally disabled man who is released from a mental hospital where he spent his childhood and the majority of his adult life after murdering his mom and her lover. While enjoying his life on the outside world, he befriends a little boy named Frank, whom he learns to love. This movie has some heartwarming scenes and a somewhat satisfying ending with a twist, so it is a must see.
4. Rain Man
This movie is about about Charlie Babbitt, an extremely greedy car dealer, who learns that his distant father has died and has left him nothing but a car and some rose bushes. However, during the hearing of his father’s will, Charlie learns that his father has left his $3 million fortune to an autistic brother he never knew he had, Raymond. This movie will make you hate Tom Cruise just a little bit, but he redeems himself in the end.
5. Dead Poets Society
If you are a fan of Robin Williams, then this movie is a must see. Although Robin did not win an Academy Award for his role in this movie, he was extremely deserving of one. The story follows John Keating, an English teacher at an all boys preparatory school. Keating plants insightful ideas into his minds of his students and encourages them to “seize the day.” While this is considered unusual at the school, Keating’s teachings ultimately lead to harsh consequences. This movie is also a tearjerker.
6. Forrest Gump
Who could forget this age old classic. With it’s highly quotable lines and memorable scenes, Forrest Gump has stolen the hearts of millions all over the world. Not only does this movie need to be watched one time, but twice is acceptable. Or maybe three times. Actually, make that four.
7. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
You know him and you love him, he’s famous for staying home from school and not getting caught, even if he did have to face some trouble along the way.
8. Wayne’s World
This movie made Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen a mega hit. Can you blame Wayne and Garth for jamming to it in their car? If you love a good laugh, then this movie is definitely for you.
9. Grease
Calling all musical lovers, this movie is for you. Again, another classic movie about Sandy and Danny, two teenagers who meet over the summer and fall in love. It’s just your typical romantic comedy with some songs thrown in for good measure.
10. The Breakfast Club
The classic tale of of five teenagers from five different high school cliques is a must see for everyone and anyone. When they all come together during detention, these five teenagers learn that not everyone is all that different and realize that they might have more in common than they ever imagined.
Whether it's angsty teenagers or prison breaks or two dorks starting their own web show, these movies have impacted the film industry throughout the years. Many television shows and movies today have alluded to these movies from the past and will hopefully continue for years to come.
