The Five Movies You Need To See Before You Die
I was raised by my dad to love and appreciate great pieces of cinematic history. I've often felt like I was born in the wrong generation in regards to the type of movies, music, and literature I prefer. But trust me when I say that the movies I've listed here below are worth the time of any person at any time and of any age. I saw all of these movies before the age of 12, and dozens of times since.
These are classics that actually had story and plot-lines, fantastic acting, thrilling musical scores, and cinematography that didn't require "green screens" or CGI effects.
I've not listed them in any particular order, but I will start things off with my favorite movie of all time first:
1. Ben-Hur (1959) Starring the incomparable Charlton Heston
2. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) Based on the autobiography of legendary British soldier T.E. Lawrence who helped lead the Arab Revolt against the Turks during WWI
3. Doctor Zhivago (1965) Epic and exciting tale of the Russian Communist Revolution, told through the eyes of a mild-mannered doctor and the women he loved. Based on the Nobel prize winning novel of the same name.
4. Patton (1970) The definitive film on the definitive American general of the last 100 years. This movie won Oscars for Best Picture and Best Actor (George C. Scott)
5. The Bridge Over the River Kwai (1957) British soldiers sent to blow up a bridge built by British soldiers held captive in a Japanese POW camp during WWII
Watch these films and you'll be a better person.
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July 23rd, 2009 - 09:22
That is quite a list, RJ. I've seen a couple of them, but I plan on watching the rest now. You sure you're really in your 20's? You like the same movies my grandpa does.
Thanks for posting a fun one like this!
July 23rd, 2009 - 19:04
I've seen all of these movies but Dr. Zhivago, and if you put it in the same list with the rest of these…I'm gonna Netflix Dr. Z this weekend.
Lawrence of Arabia is one of the most stunningly awesome films ever put to celluloid. Did you know that David Lean directed three of those movies you have up there? Quite an impressive resume, no?
Your blog is great, RJ. Keep it up buddy!
July 23rd, 2009 - 20:58
With the exception of "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Patton," I've seen them all (and my daddy can't believe I haven't seen those two yet… our fathers sound quite similar in that respect).
"Dr. Zhivago" was a beautiful movie, but I had a hard time feeling sympathetic to any of the characters… which certainly doesn't diminish the quality of the film in any way! It's always just a little disappointing when I come away from a film with no new "friends," though.
"Bridge on the River Kwai" is my favourite of those I've seen… I adore Alec Guinness, and he was absolutely marvelous in that movie. And the story has provoked much debate and discussion in my house, which is always a plus.
As always, it's a pleasure to visit your blog!
July 24th, 2009 - 10:11
We were lucky to see the restored "Lawrence" in a theater in Seattle — so stunning, it's hard to imagine it on a smaller screen.
I agree with you about "Ben Hur." One of our favorites — we've seen it more than ten times (and the audio commentary with Chuck Heston on the DVD is a riot).
As far as movies that make you a better person, I would like to vote for "Tender Mercies," which is not an epic, but just a wonderful, understated flick about redemption, renewal, and the important things in life.
July 24th, 2009 - 10:23
Justine- Wow, Lawrence of Arabia on the big screen? That's a dream/goal of mine. I'll track down the movie you suggested and report back.
Tom and George- Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. People today say that books are always better than movies, and that's generally true…but only people who haven't seen great movies (like these I've compiled) could think there aren't masterpieces of cinema out there.
Clare- Your dad is right to be stunned you haven't seen those two. I appreciate your comments on Dr. Zhivago. Thanks for stopping in.