I am not a movie critic like some of my friends, but I will say that some classics have been flying under the radar lately and it is a little sad to see. I notice this a lot in conversations I had this past year while at college, when people either had no idea what movie I was quoting, or just couldn't understand the pure beauty of these not-so-great but entirely amazing films. Here are my suggestions of "old" movies to watch this summer -- you'll thank me later.
1. Overboard (1987)
I absolutely love this movie so much. It is the definition of a romantic-comedy, but definitely more of a comedy if anything. From "Dogpatch, Iowa" to "I just...ate a bug!" "Overboard" (1987) is full of hilariously quotable lines.
2. Funny Farm (1988)
Chevy Chase is one of my all-time favorite actors, and this movie is no exception. From a mailman who will not stop to an Irish Setter that just keeps running and running and running -- oh, and how could you forget the dead guy buried in the yard? -- "Funny Farm" (1988) is a classic '80s comedy.
3. National Lampoon's Vacation (1983)
The number of times I have watched the "Vacation" series is innumerable, and I suggest starting from the very beginning with the original. National Lampoon's went on to make several sequels following this 1983 hit, all including the fatherly Clark Griswold, the hot blonde in the red convertible, and the lovable Cousin Eddie. My favorite part of this series is the fact the Audrey and Rusty and never played by the same actors in any of the films, although Clark's (Chevy Chase) neurotic and obscene rants come close in second. I also recommend watching "Christmas Vacation" (1989) to get a peek at a young Johnny Galecki who plays Leonard Hofstadter in "The Big Bang Theory" -- SO CUTE!
4. Twister (1996)
I have to admit that I hated watching this movie when I was younger (when my mom put it on), but now I have grown quite fond of it. I wouldn't say "Twister" (1996) is necessarily a thriller, but it has its climatic, fear-inducing moments throughout. If natural disasters aren't your cup of tea, then I would not recommend this one.
5. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
I am actually quite pleased with how many people have at least heard of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," in comparison to many of the other movies on this list. "Rocky Horror" is the definition of a classic and should be on everyone's must-watch list. I will admit that this movie is terrible, but it has its charm and catchy songs and is just amazingly weird. Knowing that this movie was made with the lowest budget imaginable makes it even more entertaining. Plus, with the TV remaking coming this fall, it's even more important to watch the original!
6. Ghost Busters (1984)
Like many movies, remakes are bound to happen at some point, and "Ghost Busters" (1984) is no exception to this. The new release has been getting backlash as it is an all-female lead cast -- unlike the original -- but I am very excited to see this classic comedy updated with fresh faces. I still recommend watching the original movie before seeing this year's release, as I am 100% sure references will be made and old cast members will make appearances on the screen.
7. Casino Royale (1967)
WORDS CANNOT EXPLAIN HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS MOVIE. I am always so disappointed when I see that "Casino Royale" is on, only to discover it is the Daniel Craig version released in 2006. The 1967 storyline does not resemble the more modern movie in any way shape or form -- picture at least three different James Bonds, classic 1960s dress and music, and seals dancing to Native American tribal music in the final scene. I know it sounds crazy, but "Casino Royale" (1967) is a wondrous work of retro cinema.
8. Trading Places (1983)
One of my favorite scenes:
Louis: Nenge! Nenge Mboko, from Cameroon? Do you remember me? It's Lionel Joseph!
Billy Ray: Lionel! From the African Education Conference!
Louis: Yah, mon, I was Director of Cultural Activities at the Haile Selassie Pavilion.
Billy Ray: I remember the pavilion - we had big fun there!
Both: Boo bwele boo bwele boo bwele ah ha! Boo bwele boo bwele boo bwele ah ha!
Billy Ray: Oh, memories!
I really cannot describe this movie, except for maybe hilarious. "Trading Places" (1983) is another true classic comedy in my opinion. Between preppy upper-class New Yorkers and Jamie Lee Curtis as a hooker, you cannot go wrong with this '80s flick. Just watch it...trust me.
9. The Parent Trap (1961)
IT IS SO INFURIATING WHEN PEOPLE ARE UNAWARE THAT THIS MOVIE EXISTS. YES, THERE IS AN ORIGINAL "Parent Trap" THAT CAME BEFORE THE LINDSAY LOHAN VERSION. AND IT IS SO MUCH BETTER. The 1961 -- and original -- movie is adorable and classic. I do love the Lindsay Lohan version as well, but the original has a special place in my heart... Always watch the original at least once...please...
10. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988)
"OKLAHOMA! OKLAHOMA! OKLAHOMA!"
I have a friend who lives in Oklahoma, and as soon as she told me, I had to repress the urge to shout those words so strongly. "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" (1988) is a comical movie about two con-artists who ultimately get out-conned by an entirely separate person. It's witty, funny and very well-written. Watch it... Just do it... Please.
11. Coming to America (1988)
This movie is hilarious; that is really all that I can say. With a knock-off McDonald's and the well-known quest for the American Dream, it's great. JUST WATCH IT.
12. National Lampoon's Animal House (1978)
If you have ever wondered what is would be like to be a total "frat bro" in the '60s/'70s, this movie is it. I own a College sweatshirt similar to John Belushi's in this film and very few people notice the reference...it's sad... "Animal House" (1978) is another classic -- I know, I keep using that word a lot -- with so much chaos and craziness that it just cannot be beat!
13. The Whole Nine Yards (2000)
Have you ever wanted to watch Bruce Willis catch a fly mid-flight, inhale it, and then proceed to spit it out? If so, then this is your movie! A serial killer and a dentist become neighbors and friends...what could go wrong? Classic.
14. Beetlejuice (1988)
"Beetlejuice" (1988) is another film that I am proud to say is less underrated than others. It is a Tim Burton classic filled with all sorts of crazy including a dashingly young Alec Baldwin and an adorably juvenile Winona Ryder. This movie is a true classic and great comedic take on a "ghost story."
15. Airplane! (1980)
This movie is a disaster, but it's so incredibly funny. You will be walking around telling people to not call you Shirley, or that you like your coffee like you like your men... If you want to laugh at extremely inappropriate things, then this is the movie for you!
16. Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Have you ever wanted to rob the Belagio Hotel in Las Vegas, NV? Frank Ocean (George Clooney) already did and this movie will show you how! (Not really, but that is the entire plot of the movie) Plus, Julia Roberts's character is one of the most dynamic female characters I have seen in a movie heavy with male actors. It's really great...I promise.
17. The Italian Job (2003)
Charlize Theron is a babe, and every character in this movie is incredibly intelligent and gifted. Plus, they all drive mini coopers and rob people for a living. What more could you ask for?
