Big Fish (2003)
Tim Burton is a filmmaker that most people either love or hate. Those who are not fans of his quirky and gothic style with find a breath of fresh air with Big Fish, not only with its aesthetically lighter style, but it is also his most mature work. It follows the story of a son who looks back on all of his fathers’ life stories, trying to decipher the fact from fiction, in order to get to know the real him before he dies. With a great performance from Ewan McGregor as the lead, Big Fish is a beautifully filmed comedic drama that is not only visually pleasing, but is an emotional tale that many will be able to relate to.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Easily the best one of the series, and arguably one of the best action movies of all time, Terminator 2 is an action classic helmed by James Cameron (Titanic, Avatar). Without having to see the first one, thanks to a convenient prologue that sums up the first movie, audiences can jump right in to this thrill ride. Not only is it just action packed, but it is balanced with interesting characters and a story that is very engaging even though it may be far fetched. For a film that is over twenty years old the special effects are better than even some today. If there’s one thing James Cameron knows how to do its make an entertaining movie, and you will definitely be entertained by Terminator 2.
Happy Gilmore (1996)
Adam Sandler’s name is a little tainted these days with his more recent work, but Happy Gilmore is a film from his comedic prime. Following a wannabe hockey player who ends up a pro golfer, this is a film back when Adam Sandler would go all out for his roles and hold nothing back. There’s a reason it’s a movie that everyone quotes, Adam Sandler’s performance is as funny and memorable as his others like Billy Madison and The Waterboy. It’s rare for these type of comedies to come out nowadays, and this is a comedy that deserves great appreciation. Fans of golf will love the comedic stabs it takes at the game, but anybody can sit down and laugh out loud at Happy Gilmore.
True Grit (2010)
Westerns seem to be a dying breed, but when the Coen Brothers released True Grit, theynot only made a great western but made just a great movie that most mainstream audiences would enjoy. From the set designs and costumes, to the performances and landscapes, this is a beautiful movie. It has that same perfect balance with charm and drama that the Coen Brothers find in all their movies. It may have a slow start for some viewers, but they will soon be sucked in by the great performances and the journey the characters go on.
