10 Movies that (Almost) Everyone Should See

They may not all make the AFI's top-list, but they're all worth a viewing!

Bringing Up Baby - Classic comedies such as this one remind us of how little class and humor are contained in the majority of recent comedy. Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn are perfectly and hilariously matched as an odd couple forced to endure a series of misadventures. Did I mention that the movie is about a leopard?

The Shawshank Redemption - A story of courage and, obviously, redemption, this is a movie that no one should miss. Steven King proves his ability to understand the human condition with this excellent and moving film boasting an unforgettable performance by Morgan Freeman.

Psycho (1960) - Alfred Hitchcock's defining work of genius takes suspense to a whole new level. Boasting some of the best performances captured on film, and surely some of the best cinematography, Psycho seems even fresher than most modern fare. While the film is mainly remembered for the shower scene, one of the most effective moments actually comes at the end of the film.

The Silence of the Lambs - Chilling in its own right, this film blurs the line between horror, mystery, and drama to create its own cinematic niche. Jodie Foster gives the best performance of her career, and Anthony Hopkins' performance is nothing short of legendary. For those that think this is about a cannibal, Silence of the Lambs is actually based on the life of Ed Gein. Hannibal is shown for less than twenty minutes in this film.

Jesus Camp - This movie is terrifying. For those that think Christian fundamentalism is not a serious problem in America, wait until they catch this documentary about a camp that trains children in the ways of Evangelical Fundamentalism. One can't help but pity the children raised in this nonsensical, dangerously militant, and separatist mindset.

9 to 5 - Sometimes excellent films become forgotten with time for no apparent reason. This is certainly the case with 9 to 5, one of the best comedies to grace the cinema screen. Both hilarious farce and feminist manifesto, anyone with a sense of humor can find something here to enjoy. A musical Broadway show of this film is set to begin shortly with music written by Dolly Parton.

Cloverfield - Filmmakers take heed: this is how it's done! Filmed from the victim's camera, Cloverfield outdoes absolutely all of the competition for sheer believability and tension. The best monster movie of all time, hands down. (Not counting films such as "Jaws" that involve natural predators.) For those convinced that monster movies are for the tasteless and the young, take some time out to give this one a shot.

The Omen (1976) - Possibly one of the scariest movies of all time. The score is unsettling and jarring, and this is one of the first films to show a graphic decapitation on-screen. From the opening segment involving the suddenly suicidal nanny, it becomes obvious that this film is thoroughly unafraid to engage religious taboo to scare the hell out of audiences.

Hairspray (2007) - Finally, a musical that doesn't involve death, heartbreak, and murder. This is a wonderfully entertaining film with an excellent message about prejudice thrown in for good measure. Don't get me wrong, films such as Chicago and Rent are not to be dismissed, but this one is pure fun in an age that seems to have forgotten the concept. Hairspray is also safe for all but young children.

Knocked Up - The best example of modern comedy, Knocked Up takes a serious topic and somehow manages to credibly and respectfully address it in an unflinchingly R-rated way. With dead-on performances by everyone, a rarity in cinema, viewers feel a genuine emotional connection to the characters. Knocked Up is a hilarious comedy with a heart, something that doesn't come around very often.