Segment 1.5: Top Titles

SOmeone was nice to point out that numbers 19 and 20 were missing. I'm not sure why I didn't post them. Probably a test. So here they are!

20. The Seven Samurai (drama/martial arts)--I've long believed that movies can do 2 things--be a specticle or teach. This movie taught me that isn't all. Movies can be an ascetic, as well. For so long, I had studied European films and American films. This was my first glimpse into the concept that art reflects life. I'd never been to Asia; I've no idea what Japan is truly like. And along comes this movie, and I watch it, and the world is so wholly different from my own, I cannot take my eyes away from the screen. The story is strong, but realistic in it's unfolding (yes, it's very long). The images are not in your face, but amazingly subtle. I mean, in one part, the director had fans blowing the reeds behind the actors, first one way, then the other. Why? Does it matter? He felt it should be that way. That is, by far, more concern an American would put on the screen. And I loved it. What an education.

19. The Secret of Roan Inish (children)--I stumbled upon this movie from a chat I had with a dear friend about my wish to do more with my Irish heritage. She recommended this tale. It starts smartly enough (tho I doubt kids could sit still until the good parts in the end) and I felt, like the Seven Samurai, that I was transported to different world with different rules I'd not been informed over. There are people telling stories and telling stories and telling stories. But then the film cuts to flashbacks that go further and further down the pike and the overall arc is visible. And I found myself totally hooked.