The recent rains compelled ASD's very own Katie Helland to author a March 13 piece entitled, "9 films to watch when it rains." It was a perfect companion for those of us housebound while the deluge outside was overstaying its welcome.
However, it was inspirational for us to reflect on our own personal favorite films to either while away the time, bust out a few much needed mindless chuckles or revel in exquisitely produced storytelling.
As they say, "Without further ado", here are some samples to revisit or watch for the first time whether it is rain or shine.
- "All That Jazz" (1979). This semi-autobiographical look at Broadway choreographer and theater icon Bob Fosse remains my No. 1 all-time favorite movie. The multi-layered, tremendously acted storylines cover the gamut of human imperfections with moments of redemption. The music, the dancing, and the inside look of musical theater production are foundational aspects of the film. But it's the self-assessment of one's own life dramatically portrayed throughout with an incredible interpretation of one's mortality that is the perfect bow on the gift of "All That Jazz." Starring Roy Scheider, Ann Reinking, the movie debut of Jessica Lange and the remarkable Ben Vereen. I'm still in love.
- "The Godfather" 1 and 2 (1972, 1974). Interestingly, the quality of the sequel (for some) supersedes the original Godfather which makes this tandem a powerful 1-2 punch. The story of the Corleone organized crime family is one of the most elegant, violent and performance-driven ever put to film. We are all familiar with the fictional characterizations which were based on the realities of the Mafioso and ancillary organizations. At the end of the proverbial day, it's a story about family and not just in the Cosa Nostra framework. It focuses on history, family dynamics, and a belief that professional code dictates expectations and compliance in personal relationships. The retro storytelling of Godfather 2 is just simply a model for great filmmaking while Godfather 1 is the perfect introduction to it all. Yes, there is Godfather 3 and it's part of the family. But, in comparison it's like being served sirloin when you've enjoyed filet and ribeye. The list of stars is extensive with Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, Robert de Niro, Robert Duvall, James Caan, Diane Keaton, Talia Shire and more. Back to back to back and this trilogy will be time well spent.
- "Singing in the Rain" (1953). Pure, unadulterated joy. Need a smile on your face and you appreciate unrelenting talent? Revisit this absolute classic. OK, by today's standards Singing in the Rain could be called "corny." I'm an old man and that's the reference I'm using. A silent movie star falls for a chorus girl but is "taken" by his sizzling female co-star. The catch is — she can't sing. To save the new movie, the surreptitious plan is to dub the real love interest's voice over the untalented "star." After a sensational series of song and dance performances the story culminates with the female star being exposed as a fake and everyone lives a long and beautiful life — or so we believe. The antithetical dancing to Fred Astaire's velvet style is usurped by the physical performance of Gene Kelly. A young and rising star Debbie Reynolds shines and Donald O'Connor steals scene after scene. It's just a gloriously good time.
- "Caddyshack" and "Caddyshack 2" (1980, 2025). I love the game of golf. And I love these two movies. For the next few lines of copy feel free to turn off your brain because that's the overriding quality of both of these films. I'll just boil this down to their respective story lines. Man plays hockey and he stinks. He picks up a golf club and hits it a mile. Of course, this leads to a career as a professional golfer, and he becomes a legend. He falls apart and years later he picks up a golf club and still hits it a mile and becomes the savior of the game. Yup, that's about it. But if you like pedestrian humor, clever yet borderline offensive dialog and a round peg forcing himself into a square hole this could be for you. Adam Sandler and a whole cast featuring Chevy Chase, Ted Baxter and past and current PGA star cameos makes this an entertaining time.
- "Ford vs Ferrari" (2019). If the working definition of a favorite movie is you watch it whenever it's shown on cable or on a streaming platform then this is the one for me. It's technically a drama with tinges of comedy based on a true story. The core of the film portrays the legendary 24- Hours of Le Mans race. Ferrari has dominated leading up to 1966 and Carroll Shelby, yes that Shelby, is enlisted to help the American Ford Motor Company defeat the Italian Enzo Ferrari. The internal machinations of corporate politics enmeshed with those who just love the sport collide in a "us against us against them" theme. You are cheering from the beginning to a real-life tragic end fortifying the compelling storytelling that defines this excellent (pun intended) vehicle. Matt Damon and Christian Bale are stellar in portraying their real life characters and it's worth a watch over and over again.
- "Gladiator" (2000) The definitive story of heroism, betrayal and good defeating evil. This is the essence of "Gladiator", and it remains an all-time favorite. As a Roman General in command of legions and the closest confidant to the sitting emperor, he is thrust into survival mode after a despicable betrayal by the Emperor's son. The story of family loss and forced yet temporary anonymity defines angst and pain. However, the story leads to a righteous defeat of his enemy and is a thrilling account led by director Ridley Scott. Russell Crowe (who won Best Actor for his portrayal of General Maximus) leads a once-in-a-generation production and is virtually timeless.
Movies and watching such can range from being a distraction to a mesmerizing experience delivered by a myriad of talents that not only entertains but can inspire.
Share your list where this column appears on ASD's social media and perhaps you'll inspire us as well.
