Top 100 Movies: Part 4

As it always seems to happen, while posting my Top 100 Movies post, I happen to watch a few movies that deserve a spot on the list. To accommodate the additions, I have set the list back a few numbers. However, after the entire list is posted, an updated version with more accurate ranking will be posted. Please let me know what you think of my list in the comments!

At Number 74: The Cabin the Woods

Leave it to Joss Whedon to completely turn one of the stalest and most clichéd genres on its head, while simultaneously paying homage to what came before, and that is exactly what he does with The Cabin in the Woods. While Whedon only wrote the script along with director Drew Goddard, who worked with Whedon on Buffy and Angel, Whedon's unmistakable wit is presence throughout the film. Even though The Cabin the Woods contains darker humor than what is typically in his work, it is no less hilarious at times, and the ending is perfectly ironic.

At Number 73: Batman: Mask of the Phantasm

To me, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is the best work of animation the west has ever produced, and considering the current quality of it (or lack thereof), that is not likely to change anytime soon.  Based on Batman: The Animated Series, Mask of the Phantasm features the fantastic voice cast of the best Batman, Kevin Conroy, and Mark Hamil's brilliant take on the Joker. Unlike other adaptations of Batman, Mask of the Phantasm highlights the detective and mystery aspects of Caped Crusader to excellent effect. Also, the film’s romance is, by far, the best of any Batman movie, especially since Andrea Beaumont is the only Batman romantic interest that you do not want to drop dead. 

Batman: Mask of the Phantasm Review.

At Number 72: Trigun: Badlands Rumble

Trigun: Badlands Rumble is a feature film spin-off of the iconic space western series Trigun, one of my personal favorites, and it perfectly captures everything great about the series! Unlike some other feature film releases based on a series, Badlands Rumble entirely justifies its creation as it gives deeper insight into the consequences of Vash the Stampede's actions, as well as producing film quality action and adventure. Interestingly, the original comic (manga) that it was based on was written by a Christian, which is evident by the themes explored.

At Number 71: The Host

Not to be confused with the recent tween flick of the same name, The Host has been dubbed by many to be the best monster flick since Jaws and that is a completely accurate statement. The Host, aka Goemul in Korean, mixes many different tones from lighthearted and comical to dark and serious to superb effect. While the special effects are subpar by American blockbuster standards, director Bong Joon-ho manages to make a movie that is often hilarious with likable characters and some genuine suspense and thrills. The movie even won Best Picture at many Asian film awards, and it became the highest grossing film in Korea at the time.

At Number 70: Lethal Weapon

Despite a few 80s action movie clichés, Lethal Weapon was a different type of action film compared to most action movies from the era. It essentially invented the "Buddy Cop" genre in many respects. Gibson and Glover’s chemistry is the core of the film’s entertainment with them being one of the best dynamic duos since Batman and Robin. The humor is great and there is a surprising amount of character development, what is not to like? 

At Number 69: Kara no Kyōkai: Paradox Spiral

The sixth film in the Kara no Kyōkai series, Paradox Spiral, is the most complex of the series. Just as the name suggests, it is an endless Paradox Spiral of mind bending madness. Many consider this to be the best film in the franchise, and while truly amazing, the lack of screen time for the main character Shiki made it my second favorite the franchise.

At Number 68: Silence of the Lambs

As thrilling and it is disturbing, Silence of the Lambs blends a riveting mystery thriller with elements of horror. While the film is certainly not for the squeamish or faint of heart, the plot is brilliantly crafted from beginning to end. Thanks to exceptional performances from Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster, the film's plot was elevated even further, with the Academy even rewarding it with Best Picture.

What do you think of the list? Please comment below and let me know!
Top 100 Movies: Part 1
Top 100 Movies: Part 2
Top 100 Movies: Part 3

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