Lila’s Top Ten Films
Lila’s Top Ten Movies
Last updated 2021
1. Juno (2007) Dir. Jason Reitman
This is a beautiful movie with no flaws. I was moved so much by this movie despite its premise not being something that I would otherwise relate to (teen pregnancy). I thought the writing was good and funny, making a lighthearted movie out of something that could be seen as darker. The acting was incredible as well with insane chemistry throughout the cast. This is a movie I could rewatch constantly and not get bored or dissatisfied with it.
*I did a review of this film*
2. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) Dir. Jim Sharman
Despite Rocky Horror’s obvious social and cultural influence on society, it touched me. I relate so much to this movie, it brings me comfort and makes me feel as though I am part of a larger community of misfits and weirdos. And by technical standards, I think the songs are incredible, the sets are creative, and the acting is some of the best I’ve ever seen. Tim Curry’s acting is this is probably my all time favorite performance to date. For having such little funding, this movie has created some of the best art I have ever seen.
3. Amélie (2001) Dir. Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Oh to live in Paris working at a small coffee shop/bar….
This French film is a charming and witty essential watch that I predict will make your day.
4. Donnie Darko (2001) Dir. Richard Kelly
This was the first movie that really made me geek out about movies. The story is engaging and creative, with a really cool use of visual effects. I kept analyzing as I was watching it and it has to be in this list for me because without it, I would not be as interested in film as I am today.
5. The Florida Project (2017) Dir. Sean Baker
This film is astonishingly beautiful. From the coloring, touching child performances, and the story that shows a harder world in the lens of childlike wonder. This is a must watch that is enjoyable and captivating the whole way through.
6. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010) Dir. Edgar Wright
This movie has incredible imagery, music, and writing. Beyond that, it is simply one of the most creative pieces of art I have ever seen and I have never seen anything like it. Its’ storytelling techniques are original, engaging, and important for the story. It also has one of my favorite actors, Michael Cera. If you like music at all or just want to see something unlike anything else you’ve seen before, this is the perfect movie for you.
7. The Silence of The Lambs (1991) Dir. Jonathan Demme
While this story was a little bit slower in the beginning, it all pays off by the end. Every storyline is creatively placed and is meaningful. Beyond that, Anthony Hopkins’ acting is impeccable and helped create the iconic character of Hannibal Lector. All of this movie’s praise and abundance of awards is deserved.
8. Beetlejuice (1988) Dir. Tim Burton
This movie was a key figure in my childhood. Call it nostalgia, but this work of art gets more and more beautiful as I rewatch it. The acting is impeccable, the writing is funny, the characters are sympathetic, the story is enjoyable, and the set around it is creatively beautiful. Tim Burton has been a favorite director of mine since my childhood, and this movie is an example of his brilliance.
9. Sound of Metal (2019) Dir. Darius Marder
This film, which looks into the life of a drummer who starts to rapidly lose his hearing, is incredible. As someone learning ASL and has become very interested in becoming more active in the deaf community, this confirms things I’ve learned about the deaf community and cochlear implants. I highly recommend.
10. Do the Right Thing (1989) Dir. Spike Lee
This movie is just as important as it was when it came out 30 years ago. All of the shots and technical aspects are beautiful because of Lee’s incredible creativity. But what makes this movie stand out so much is the story. This story accentuates modern racism and the anger people of color face due to microagressions and police brutality. This movie will stick with you and is incredibly moving.