Evin’s Top 25 (of all time)

Posted on February 17th, 2007.
Genre: Action

25. BATTLE ROYALE (2001)

One of the most brutal, searing action films ever committed to celluloid, Battle Royale is modern Japanese cinema at its bloody best. A simple enough story, involving a Japan of the near-future, where adolescents have stopped attending school and taken to the streets in hordes. The national government comes up with a rather unorthodox solution to rid the country of these unruly children. Hang on to your butts! I guarantee, you’ve never seen anything like this before.

24. MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY (1935)

An oldie, but a goodie! I’m fully aware that most black & white movies are hard for younger generations to sit through, however, this one is certainly an exception. Based on the true story of British sailors rebelling against the Crown’s navy in the 18th century, Mutiny on the Bounty is one of the most compelling historical/dramatic/thrillers ever brought to the silver screen. It was also released before harsh Production Codes were put into place by the evil MPAA, so, it contains some scenes of violence and brutality that was rarely seen at that time. Yet, the most significant aspect of this film, what makes it truly great, is the outstanding performance by the illustrious Charles Laughton. Laughton plays the cruel ruler of the Bounty, Captain Bligh, one of the greatest villains in American cinema. Aside from him, you also have the added pleasure of having Clark Gable as the first mate. An incredible journey, all around. And remember - beware the Marlon Brando and later, Mel Gibson versions.

23. THE EXORCIST (1973)

The only movie that claims to be, “the scariest movie of all time,” and can actually live up to it. There isn’t much to say about this horror-blockbuster except, “The power of Christ compels you!” Seriously, if you haven’t seen this yet, you can’t claim to even like movies.

22. KEY LARGO (1948)

Another black & white, but trust me, its worth watching. Humphrey Bogart plays a WWII captain who travels to Key Largo, to a hotel where the father and wife (played by Lauren Bacall) of one of his deceased platoon members live. However, upon arrival at the hotel, Bogart finds a crew of gangsters (led by the terrifically villainous Edward G. Robinson) have set-up shop there. They take Bogart and Bacall hostage, while a hurricane rips through the region. Its an action movie and once it gets started, there is no let-up. An absolute classic, on many levels.

21. THE FUGITIVE (1993)

Undeniably, one of the greatest action films of all time and I think its one of the most forgotten movies of the early 90’s. Aside from the Oscar-winning performance from Tommy Lee Jones, Harrison Ford is also quite good as the escaped convict trying to clear his name, Dr. Richard Kimble. Prepare for some of the wildest chase scenes through the streets of Chicago, in this, the greatest cat-and-mouse movie ever made.

20. ARACHNOPHOBIA (1990)

A little movie and a mild box office success when it was released, Arachnophobia is a spirited scare-comedy with endless tricks up its sleeve. Not only does the movie feed on one of our most primal fears, the fear of spiders, but it also has rich acting and extreme moments of creepiness throughout. To my tastes, this is Jeff Daniels finest and funniest performance to date. Other highlights include a hilarious John Goodman as a looney exterminator and a hair-raising climax that will make your skin crawl.

19. CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON (2000)

Ang Lee’s masterpiece of Chinese folklore is still one of the greatest and slickest kung-fu movies of this or any generation. A rousing action/fantasy with romance and passion to spare. Its stirring visuals and heart-wrenching story line make this a must-see, whether you’re a fan of fighting films or not!

18. GREMLINS (1984)

Okay, so this movie might not be considered “genius”, however, it is one of the great cult favorites of the 80’s. Say what you will about this choice, but no one can deny its charm. C’mon - what other movie (other than Tremors) can show a small suburban town getting taken over by slimy, mischievous little monsters, on Christmas - and actually get it right! A stylish sci-fi/horror thrill ride that is entertaining from start to finish… Trust me!

17. THE UNTOUCHABLES (1987)

Even though I hate both TV show - movie adaptations and Kevin Costner movies, this is certainly the exception to both. Brian DiPalma’s gangster masterpiece has some of the most brilliant action set-pieces ever in movies. A bonus is to watch Sean Connery in his Oscar-winning performance as a cop who helps Costner catch Al Capone (a particularly evil Robert DeNiro). It never gives you a chance to breath. Sure its a tad melodramatic at times and there are cheesy lines to spare (not to mention, you have to get through Costner’s usual lousy performance), but, in the end, the film will win you over. As a gangster movie, it is only topped by The Godfather Saga, Goodfellas and White Heat. As an all-out action movie - nothing compares.

16. POLTERGEIST (1982)

Not only is this one of Spielberg’s best (though he isn’t the director on screen, he technically did most of the work), it is the best ghost story of contemporary American movies. And yet, despite being supremely frightening and strangely eerie, the movie plays out like a non-stop roller-coaster ride! Its a haunted house movie like no other. I encourage everyone to watch this one alone, in the dark. Prepare to jump out of your seat at least once!

15. THE DIRTY DOZEN (1967)

The quintessential “guy movie” hasn’t aged a bit. Its humor, action and keen characterizations are as fresh today as they were nearly forty years ago. Lee Marvin plays an officer who must train twelve prisoners for a special mission, during WWII. The mission: to infiltrate a highly fortified mansion in Austria, that will be filled with Nazi generals. Can the rag-tag team of misfits pull it off? Will Lee Marvin finish the job and learn to love the criminals or will he leave them? If you’ve seen any of the millions of rip-offs of The Dirty Dozen than you probably already know the answer to those questions, but this one is still, by far, the best!

14. THE GREAT ESCAPE (1963)

Another epic “guy movie” that also takes place during WWII, though this one is actually based on a true story. And what an unbelievable story it is! An attempted escape by 200+ Allied soldiers from a Nazi POW camp. Probably best known for being the film that made Steve McQueen famous (and what a star he was!), but the movie also parades a vast number of male stars of the day: James Garner, Richard Attenborough, James Coburn and Donald Pleasance. For those of you too young to know who the hell any of those guys are, watch this and I guarantee, you will want to rent many of their other movies. This happens to be many people’s all-time favorite. Its easy to see why. Enjoy this one! It actually goes nicely with The Dirty Dozen, for anyone interested in a double-feature.

13. A FISH CALLED WANDA (1988)

This is the first all-out comedy on my list and for good reason - being a humorous fellow myself, I am very critical of comedies and picky with which ones I will include in my vast collection. This one has perhaps the finest writing and comedic acting and timing of any movie of the last thirty years. Taking place in London, it involves a team of four thieves robbing a bank, one getting caught and the plot to find where he hid the loot. But that’s just the beginning! The cast is headed off by two Monty Python alumn: John Cleese and Michael Palin. Yet, the funniest scenes in the movie come from Kevin Kline, who steals every scene he is in (so much so, that he won an Oscar). Sit back and relax, because you’ll soon be rolling on the floor in ridiculous hysterics.

12. WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT? (1987)

One of the most original movies made in the 80’s, this visual feast is different from anything you’ve ever seen. In 1940’s Hollywood, detective Bob Hoskins has to help cartoon film star Roger Rabbit out of a heavy murder rap. A wondrous mixture of animation and live-action, with sites you’ve only dreamed of. Don’t be turned off by the fact that this is a Disney production; this is no “kid’s movie”. It is perhaps the only animated film noir. I read somewhere once that this movie is considered to be, “the Citizen Kane of cartoons.” That statement couldn’t be more true!

11. PAPER MOON (1973)

Another comedy on the list, though this one is a bit deeper than most, with a streak of drama. A sweet little film, taking place in the Midwest during the early years of the Depression, the story follows con-man Ryan O’Neal, who inadvertently becomes the caretaker of a rude, clever little girl (played by real-life daughter Tatum O’Neal, the youngest person to ever win an Oscar, at age nine!) and takes her on the road with him. Eventually, the two join forces in his con-job racket. Funny and heart-warming from the very first scene and, though shot in the seventies, director Peter Bogdonavich filmed it in glorious black & white. A modern masterpiece!

10. GUNGA DIN (1939)

One of the earliest high-adventure movies (released in what is still considered to be the greatest single year in Hollywood history) with a cast to die for: Cary Grant, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., etc. Loosely based on the Rudyard Kipling poem, this tale follows three outrageous and unruly British officers posted in India and their battle with the Thugee cult. The title character, Gunga Din, is nothing more than an Indian water-boy, until the end… Another black & white movie, yet, it plays like a modern action blockbuster. Aside from the blatant racism shown in it, Gunga Din is still a great time. Let’s just pray that mainstream Hollywood doesn’t find this one and try and remake it, with Michael Bay at the helm!

9. THE BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI (1957)

David Lean’s supreme action/epic/war masterpiece is fresher than ever. That isn’t just a line - its really exciting! My favorite old-time star, William Holden, plays an American soldier who escapes from a Japanese prison camp, during WWII. Meanwhile, Alec Guiness, a British officer, is brought to the same camp and he and his men are forced to build a bridge over the river Kwai. A taut thriller, brimming with life and also questions of bravery, pride and honor, this movie will have you on the edge of your seat up until the final frame. It was the best picture winner for 1957, though I think it would have won the award even today.

8. The LORD OF THE RINGS Trilogy (2001, 2002, 2003)

By all accounts, this is the finest fantasy saga of all time (even surpassing Star Wars), but, its much more than that. This series, based on the world-famous books by J.R.R. Tolkien, begins with The Fellowship of the Ring, continues with the equally effective The Two Towers and concludes with the spectacular The Return of the King. Everything about this trilogy is simply sublime. Filled with exquisite detail and fleshed-out characterizations by all actors involved, The Lord of the Rings will forever stand as a testament to the potential of the motion picture as an art form, as well as a timeless classic. Its truly one eleven hour story, broken into three sections and is adored by millions. If you haven’t seen these, you’re dumb!

7. THE TAKING OF PELHAM ONE, TWO, THREE (1974)

Four armed men hijack a New York City subway train, holding several passengers hostage until their demands are met. What do they want? Simple: one million dollars, cash, to be delivered within one hour, or else. If that alone doesn’t make you want to see this harrowing action/thriller, I don’t know if you really like movies! Being a New Yorker myself, this movie holds a special place in my heart, but, even if you’ve never been to the Big Apple, you’ll enjoy this one. The suspense is killer!

6. ALIENS (1986)

This highly influential James Cameron action yarn cannot be touched, though many have tried to rise to its level. It is a continuation of the 1979 sci-fi classic, Alien, and is hands-down the greatest movie sequel ever created. Why, you ask? Because Cameron and actress Sigourney Weaver did everything right, taking the most important elements from the first one and expanding on the story and characters (unlike most of today’s sequels, which simply redo the thrill of the previous installment). And what a ferocious villain we find, in the alien itself. This is one wild, gory, gun-toting ride - one which I can personally watch over and over and over…

5. PREDATOR (1987)

A special-ops team, lost somewhere in the jungles of South America, soon come to realize that they are all being hunted by an assailant not-of-this-planet. Pumped-up sci-fi action at its finest (with a half-way decent performance by its star, Arnold Schwarzenegger) that grabs hold of you and never lets go! Fan-boys love this one, mostly because of its high-tech alien killing-machine (who is a pretty damn cool villain) but, if you’ve never indulged, I think you’ll find this to be a very straightforward and classy movie, when it comes right down to it.

4. The INDIANA JONES Trilogy (1981, 1984, 1989)

Steven Spielberg’s masterful series is by far the best adventure trilogy in American history. It begins with Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, then Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and climaxes with Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Though the three movies have nothing to do with each other, I count them together as one entity because there is nothing else in cinema like them. The only similarity is that you get to follow Harrison Ford as the rough and tough hero, Indiana Jones, the whip-toting archaeologist whose globe-trotting exploits are the stuff of old-fashioned serials. Though they each have plenty of substance, the trilogy is really just pure, unadulterated escapism.

3. DIE HARD (1988)

Without a doubt, the greatest action movie of all time. New York policeman John McClaine (Bruce Willis, in the role that made him a star) is stranded in an L.A. high-rise while it is taken over by terrorists (led by the illustrious Alan Rickman, in the role that forever type-cast him as a ruthless villain). This movie influenced every single actioner of the 90’s, but none could come close to its sheer energy and excitement (with the exception of 1994’s Speed). Its claustrophobic, electrifying and tense, but McClaine makes it all worthwhile. In many ways, it is a throw-back to the disaster films of the 70’s yet, it has a life of its own and transcends the cheese of that genre. For this one, popcorn is in order.

2. GHOSTBUSTERS (1984)

Arguably, the most successful comedy of the 80’s and anyone can see why. The outstanding visual effects hold up very well, over twenty years later. But really, its the humor that makes this particular scare-comedy so perfect. And no one adds more to this factor than the most distinguished funny-man of our day, Bill Murray. He is the rock of jokes and jabs by which this movie is anchored. And, if you like spectacles, nothing beats the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man finale on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. This is the kind of classic cinematic experience that makes you feel good afterward. Embrace it!

1. BATMAN (1989)

When I was just a boy, i went to see Batman in the theater with my late father. It was August and the movie came out in June. We were the only ones in the theater and, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. This is the movie that made me fall in love with filmmaking. When it comes to entertainment, nothing else compares. Every part of Tim Burton’s movie works. The Oscar-winning production design, the flawless score by Danny Elfman, the chemistry between Kim Basinger and Michael Keaton and on and on. And let’s not forget Jack Nicholson as the Joker, a performance so well-tuned, I’ve had a life-long obsession with the man’s work. Though Chris Nolan’s Batman Begins comes damn close to this one, nothing can top Burton’s supreme masterwork. It is an operatic treasure of American cinema and a high point for all of today’s comic book movies to aspire to.

Noteables:

JAWS (1975)
WAIT UNTIL DARK (1964)
THE INCREDIBLES (2004)
TREMORS (1991)
ONE, TWO, THREE (1962)
JURASSIC PARK (1993)
ARSENIC AND OLD LACE (1944)
MURDER BY DEATH (1976)
REAR WINDOW (1956)
AMELIE (2001)
BANANAS (1971)
THE BIG SLEEP (1948)

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