The Top Ten Best Films You May Have Missed

It is raining outside and when it rains most of us immediately think movie. So, instead of going for that old classic which may be one of your favorites, consider any from this list. They are in this reviewer's humbled opinion very well done an instant classics that transcend time even though some have received very little recognition. There should be something for every film lover's taste on here. Some may be hard to find, but with some searching at Blockbuster or on Netflix, you should be able to find them, and they should prove to be worth the search.

1.) "The Passion of Joan of Arc" - Arguably one of the most controversial films of all time, this film has it all - exceptional acting and directing put together with beautiful black and white cinematography. It is the story of the final moments of Joan of Arc's life as she prepares to die told completely without dialogue. Thus, the action of the film is only as strong as the cinematography and acting portrayed therein. It beautifully captures the human essence for survival and the struggle to fight for what one
believes even in the face of death. Many successful films have tried to emulate this structure, but arguably none of have portrayed this structure as well as this film has. This film is a masterpiece and should find a home on any film lover's shelf or one who appreciates beautiful films.

2.) "That Obscure Object of Desire" - Arguably one of the greatest romantic films of all time. This film is so deep and so complex with plot and character relationships that one viewing is simply not enough. It is the story of a wealthy French businessman and his relationship with a beautiful yet fiery female dancer. It is the ultimate dysfunctional relationship yet demonstrates how we desire relationships in spite of their dysfunctions. This film has beautiful cinematography, but it is not overpowering, for the strength of the film lies in the symbolism of the relationships towards our society and characterization. The female dancer is casted by two women and each symbolize different emotion. This is a wonderful film that would be best suited as a date movie and it comes highly recommended.

3.) "Memories of Murder" (Korean Version) - Many films have tried to provide a glimpse into the psyche of a serial killer, but none have done so in this reviewer's humble opinion as well as "Memories of Murder". Set in Korea, this film tells the story of Korea's fist serial killer. To say this film is
wonderful would be an understatement. The thrills and terror of a killer on the loose are captured so well, that it should be noted one almost forgets they are watching a film. The best part of the film is the ending which is arguably one of the greatest endings in cinematic history.

4.) "Breathless" - Another film about the relationship between men and women, "Breathless" mixes romance with action only the way that Humphrey Bogart could. This film deserves to be seen not only for the beautiful cinematography but for the sequence of events successfully mixing romance with action that culminates in a breathtaking ending.

5.) "Nosferatu" - A pioneer of all horror films, this film tells the story of Transylvania and how one vampire terrorized a town. All the rules of horror were arguably established here, and modern horror has decided to break most of them. It is a shame, because "Nosferatu" is a jewel among horror that so many horror films of the present try to emulate.

6.) "The Castle of Cagliastro" - One of the best and overlooked animated films of all time, this film comes with Spielberg's stamp of approval. Mixing action with plots of counterfeit money, this movie is a masterpiece in animation. Extremely well done and highly recommended.

7.) "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" - This was a tough one between this and "Spun", but when it comes down to it, "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" is probably the finest film about drugs ever made. Several films have tried
to explain the fascination with and effects caused by drug use, but this film captures it like nothing else. To say that one would watch this film is quite possibly incorrect. Instead, one experiences this film like one might a roller coaster ride.

8.) "American History X" - Overflowing with questions of loyalty and issues of racism, this film explores the issues that so many have been afraid or unwilling to tackle. Very similar to "Crash", it seeks to address how the choices we make in regards to other races in addition to ourselves affect many lives. This is one not to miss.

9.) "Donnie Darko" - A cult classic, many have argued that Donnie Darko is overrated. In my opinion, those that argue that are the ones who do not understand it. This film is arguably the finest film about time travel ever made. Make no mistake about it, there is a lot going on with choice, destination, fate, free will, etc. This one require multiple viewings to understand it, but it is very worth it and is a fine film.

10.) "Run, Lola, Run" - Often criticized by some for lack of depth and praised by others, for its narrative structure, this film is very well done. The strength here is showing the choice to rob a store
told from three different possible outcomes from two different character viewpoints. This film comes highly recommended.

There are the top ten films you may have missed. The next time it rains or whenever you feel like seeing a well done yet often overlooked film or films, then be sure to check these great ones out