66. Dogma
Year: 1999
IMDB rating: 7.3
Awards:
The Story: Two angels banned from Heaven found a loophole on Earth that might allow them to return home, but with the consequence of undoing the life itself and disintegrate the even fabric of all reality. In order to stop them, a cynical abortion clinic worker Bethany is set on this quest by God himself (through the aid of his Celestial loyal company), while she is accompanied by two prophets, the thirteenth apostle, a muse and other heavenly or hellish creatures.
Why is it on the list: Because it is revolting, offensive, cynical, satirical and funny beyond limits. Because takes the Cristian dogma and re-interprets it in ways you could have never imagined. Because Jay and Silent Bob, the brilliant explanation for the Golgothan, because Ben Affleck and Matt Damon and a special guest appearance of Alanis Morissette and regretted George Carlin. Because in spite of its wits and subtle criticism towards today’s society, it really makes you think and wonder and after seeing it, the phrasing “God works in mysterious ways” will gain other interpretations and perspectives.
Quintessential quote: “Church laws are fallible because they’re created by man.” (Loki)
67. Basic Instinct
Year: 1992
IMDB rating: 6.9
Awards: 2 Oscar Nominations
The Story: Nick Curran has to investigate the brutal murder of Johhny Boz, a former rock star who, at the time of his death, was dating Catherine Tramell, a very seductive writer whose mind is brilliant and her behavior manipulative and deceiving, to say the least. Nick falls under Catherine’s spell, although she becomes a suspect, and their relationship gets very hot very soon. Unfortunately, the corpses body count rises and Nick has to make up his mind about Catherine’s guilt and try to find evidence to prove it.
Why is it on the list: Because it produced a riot back in its day, with its explicit sex scenes, violence and controversy. Because it became a classic in terms of thriller movie galore, and Sharon Stone’s cross legs’ scene turned the movie into an icon. Because the performances were great and the movie showed an audacity little displayed before. Because it filled the theaters, it set the press on fire and cemented Stone’s and Douglas’s careers. Because you still want to send your kid away from the living room if you think to re-watch it.
Quintessential quote: “I’d have to be pretty stupid to write a book about killing and then kill him the way I described in my book. I’d be announcing myself as the killer. I’m not stupid.” (Catherine)
69. Dances With Wolves
Year: 1990
IMDB rating: 8
Awards: 7 Oscar Awards
The Story: John Dunbar spends a quiet life in his secluded Civil War outpost, until his good relationship with the Indians and the wolves turn him into a persona non-grata for his fellow military men.
Why is it on the list: Because its slow pace lets you really blend in the landscape and the atmosphere, allowing you to understand the characters motivations and choices. Because it speaks of the beauty of the human spirit, returned to an ancestral innocence, where petty conflicts bow in front of true friendship and love. Because you instantly find yourself attached to the characters and even the wolf. Because the acting is great, the scenery is chosen with great impact upon the story and because Kevin Costner takes his time and interprets this role in an almost majestic way, making us see and feel the transformation of a man into a superior human being.
Quintessential quote: “I was just thinking that of all the trails in this life there is one that matters most. It is the trail of a true human being. I think you are on this trail and it is good to see.” (Kicking Bird)
70. Pretty Woman
Year: 1990
IMDB rating: 6.8
Awards: 1 Oscar Nomination
The Story: Edward Lewis is a wealthy, heartless man, who hires a female companion to spend his time with. But young and beautiful Vivian is more than the eye can see and manages to get to Edward’s heart and he finds himself more and more drawn to the non conformist prostitute whom he likes to share pleasurable moments with.
Why is it on the list: Because it is a classic Cinderella love story that made history. Because you can not not love the moments when Vivian is sent to shopping and magically transforms into a high class lady. Because you want them to stay together, despite the huge class and education differences and even if you know the ending is predictable, you still watch the movie with joy. Because now it’s soapy, light and underrated and this makes it more valuable, as despite all these, it is still an icon and a reference for love stories and romantic comedies.
Quintessential quote: “I’m gonna treat you so nice, you’re never gonna let me go.” (Vivian)