Ruminations of a meandering mind

More often than not, you end up watching a movie either because it has a fine cast, or its director is one of those credited to always deliver good films, or purely on the basis of the hype that it has created. However, I also remember watching films just because I had nothing else to do and finally the film turned out to be good enough to watch it a second and a third time. I am talking of those films that just catch you off guard purely because you had never expected it to turn out so well. I can think of a few such English films.

The Shawshank Redemption: I remember watching TSR just for its intriguing title and nothing else. Today, it’s an all time favorite of mine. Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman suit their individual roles perfectly. Excellent narration by Freeman, I remember TSR for its wonderful climax. I haven’t seen a film end in the perfect fashion as it did in this one.

Being John Malkovich : Unfortunately, I cannot describe BJM, simply because its too weird to describe. This is one of the most innovative films I have watched in terms of its script. Hats off to Charlie Kaufmann for writing such an ingenious story. John Malkovich playing himself is an absolute delight to watch. Another one of those films that really stunned me when I watched it first.

My Cousin Vinny: I did not know that this movie had worked wonders at the box office when I saw this. To me it was just another comedy. I would call this among the most entertaining flicks. Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei are perfectly cast and its 2 hours of absolute fun. This is on this list simply because I never expected it make me laugh so much.

Fargo: Coen brothers who made this one were well sought after but I wasn’t aware of them. Again an absolutely wonderful movie noteworthy for its layered story line and some wonderful performances. Highly recommended.

Serial Mom: Dark humor at its best, I became a huge fan of Kathleen Turner after watching this one. Not for all tastes but I enjoyed it.

Nick of Time: Another one of those flicks that I thought of as just another action movie turned out to be a well-written, well-acted and engrossing thriller. The pace never lets up and it’s a must watch if you like action and suspense.

Jacob’s Ladder: Not rated very highly, but I remember finding this a very well made flick. The story and the setting of the film haunts me even now and I think this is definitely worth a watch. I would definitely classify this as a well-made psychological thriller. Not for the light hearted.

Birdcage: Agreed that this had some great actors in it but I never thought it would end up being such a delightful comedy simply because there was no hype surrounding the film. Terrific performances by Nathan Lane and Robin Williams. Entertaining.

Falling Down: First film that I watched of Michael Douglas and it made for a gripping thriller. A believable character study, this was one of those films that I can watch many more times for it’s a spot-on portrayal of an American who loses his cool. Extremely violent but worth watching.

Parenthood: Directed by Ron Howard, I have watched this film only once but I wait expectantly for the re-runs to appear on TV. Steve Martin and Rick Moranis are terrific in a film that depicts the trials of parenthood. Warm and insightful comedy.

Reality Bites: Actor Ben Stiller impresses making his debut as a director in a very intelligent film. It’s about young people who cannot cope up with the present day world.Great performances from the trio of Ben Stiller, Winona Ryder and Ethan Hawke.