The 3 Best Films Ever

Well. At least for their respective years, imho. And surprise! They're not from the horror genre. Long week of being sick and confined, and I can't recommend these 3 more highly. In order of viewing this week:

The Visitor (2008)

Richard Jenkins is fabulous. Touching story as well. From that dude that did The Station Agent. I know the year ain't over, and there will be plenty more from 2008 to see, but something really good will have to come along to knock this off my "Best" List...



The Diving Bell and The Butterfly (2007)

Can't believe it took me this long to see this. And I hate to knock Funny Games outta the top spot, but this film was simply amazing in every single way. The story is incredible, the photography and direction are the best you'll see (the first half hour or so from the lead's perspective is unreal!!!). And the acting, including an AMAZING performance from Mathieu Amalric, is top notch...



The Fire Within (1963)

aka Le Feu Follet for the French speaking folk

Yep. The same year that brought us Fellini's 8 1/2. This blows everything away. May just be one of my all-time favs. Louis Malle puts Godard and Truffaut to shame with this masterpiece. And make sure you get the Criterion Collection DVD, packed with goodies...including a 1/2 hour documentary with a perspective form Mathieu Almaric, and another 20 minute piece about Louis Malle's "Fire Within."

Anyone who has dealt with depression, or knows someone who has, this film is even that more powerful. We're watching it again tonight.

Warning: definitely not a "feel good movie." But if you like the type of film that truly puts you in the shoes of the lead character...this is it. Incredibly well shot. This is a MUST see, and I'm ashamed to say I hadn't seen it to this point. Not a trailer, just a scene...



And "23 Juillet" would be a kick ass band name. I'm googling...