With the 87th annual Academy Awards taking place this Sunday, now seems a good time to admit that the movies we love actually reflect a lot about our personalities. No matter who you will be rooting for this year, all of the nominees have joined the distinguished company of films that are treasured classics.
With more than seven decades of films to choose from, this year is the perfect time to find the oscar film that best reflects who you are (or at least get a few fun suggestions to add to your Netflix queue.) Here are some suggestions from our in-house movie lovers sure to fit any cinema-inspired personality.
Are you a romantic at heart?
Romantic films are not just mindless entertainment; they are escapist fun that moviegoers have enjoyed since the dawn of filmmaking. From classic tragedies to realistic comedies, the theme of real love has always been a popular one in Hollywood. Are you just like many of those top-level movie execs that just can’t help falling in love with people falling in love? If so, then here are a few films for you.
- “The English Patient” (1996) is the film that proves the rule, “better to have loved and lost than to have never loved before.”
- “Shakespeare in Love” (1998) scored a shocking upset to win the Best Picture award thanks to its literally Shakespearean balance of romance and comedy.
- “Lost in Translation” (2003) paired Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson as the unlikeliest of friends, let alone possible romantic partners.
Are you someone who enjoys a rewarding challenge?
If you enjoy your cinema on a grand scale than you are probably a fan of the big budget epic. If this is your genre of choice you are also likely to enjoy thought provoking material and activities that really engage your attention and intellect. Sticking with a film that spans years or that examines the enormity of a situation can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding as well. If you prefer losing yourself in one of these tall tales here are a few suggestions for your viewing pleasure:
- “Dances with Wolves” (1990) was Kevin Costner’s epic tale of war and culture.
- “Titanic” (1997) remains the top grossing film of all time, but if you never saw it, now is your chance.
- “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” (2003) took best picture, but it takes all three of Frank Jackson’s epic hobbit-inspired tales to tell the story of one special journey.
Are you always up for an adventure?
Films are supposed to take you away, and if your preference is to get lost in the suspense and tension a great thriller delivers, the action/adventure genre is for you. While big budget action films crowd the Cineplex every summer, some classics have been able to elevate the fun to a higher level of entertainment. Are you a thrill seeker always looking for a new experience? If so, here are a few examples of award winners you might enjoy (its not quite an extreme sport, but as far as movie viewing goes…)
- “The Fugitive” (1993) followed Harrison Ford on his tireless quest to find the “one-armed man” who ruined his life.
- “Apollo 13” (1995) made an unsuccessful trip to the moon, and the harrowing return home, edge of your seat entertainment.
- “Gladiator” (2000) saw Russell Crowe fight for the honor of his family during the Roman era in what could be the most action packed Best Picture winner of all time.
Are you looking for a laugh?
Comedies have always had trouble at the Academy Awards, but they have also been one of the favorite genres of movie fans since the days of Charlie Chaplin and the silent film era. Classic film comedies connect us back to the memories or emotions we all share, proving that laughter is something we should enjoy together. Looking for a good laugh this spring? Check out one of these timeless titles:
- “Four Weddings and a Funeral” (1994) launched the career of Hugh Grant and proved that there were films that could make good on the promise of comedy in a romantic comedy.
- “Babe” (1995) may be the only Best Picture nominee in history to feature a talking pig, but fans loved the heartwarmingly amusing tale.
- “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) took a satirical look at beauty pageants and family dynamics.