1. The Pursuit of Happyness
This movie is, of course, about the American Dream (the pursuit of happiness). What I particularly like about the film is its overall shape. Based on a true story, things just get worse and worse for the main character, Chris Gardener. Only right at the end do we see a final upturn in the circumstances of his life.
2. Rudy
Again, based on a true story, Rudy is determined to play football (the American variety, of course) for Notre Dame and this film recounts how the universe helped him to achieve that goal.
3. Pay it Forward
There have been a number of movies on the basic theme of doing a good turn and in return asking people to ‘pay it forward’. It is an idea that I find so appealing. The world would be a much better place if we all did something like this.
4. Groundhog Day
A firm favourite of mine, this movie conveys so many lessons on the subject of the law of cause and effect and what you can and cannot control in your life. I have watched it repeatedly over the years.
5. Apollo 13
An inspirational story of Nasa’s finest hour. I remember the actual mission and was there watching, on TV, as we finally saw the crew splash down safely in the Pacific. Despite this foreknowledge, the film still manages to convey all of the drama of the real-life situation.
6. It’s a Wonderful Life
An angel shows a frustrated businessman, played by James Stuart, what life would have been like if he had never been born. In memory of a dear friend of mine, who loved this film, I have included it here.
7. The Mission
This is Robert De Niro’s finest performance in my opinion. He plays a man who, after killing his brother, finally comes to terms with his lot via the act of penance.
8. Gallipoli
Probably the best anti-war film I have ever seen, the movie charts the journey of two Australians who join-up (first world war) to be dispatched to Gallipoli. The soundtrack features Albinoni’s Adagio – my favourite piece of music – and there is wonderful irony in the final scene.
9. Brassed Off
A brilliant exploration of the issues that surrounded the miner’s strike in 1984/5 set against the backdrop of a pit brass band winning a national competition in Thatcher’s Britain.
10. The Lives of Others
It is wonderful to see the transformation of the lead character from one of the party faithful into someone who can think and act for himself. The end is also brilliant.
