Classics

Jaws

(1975) When a gigantic great white shark begins to menace the small island community of Amity, a police chief, a marine scientist and a grizzled fisherman set out to stop it.

Runtime: 2h 3m  Rated: PG

Stephen Spielberg made his mark with this American classic. Jaws did not just reinvent the genre of monster movies, Jaws re-wrote what they can be like. This movie is brilliantly written and brilliantly filmed. A special nod goes out to Robert Shaw who portrays Quint, the shark boat captain who survived the sinking of the U.S.S Indianapolis. The story he tells still gives me chills. Don’t look at this as just a horror movie or monster movie because it is far smarter than that.

Scarface

(1983) In Miami in 1980, a determined Cuban immigrant takes over a drug cartel and succumbs to greed.

Runtime: 2h 49m  Rated: R

Scarface is a classic gangster movie, a classic 80’s movie, and a classic Pacino movie. Oliver Stone’s brilliantly written character piece has Shakespearian  depth to it and Brian De Palma has flawless delivery as the director. 

To Kill a Mockingbird

(1962) Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his children against prejudice.

Runtime: 2h 8m  Rated: PG

This is a rare case where, in their own way, the movie is as good as the book.  This movie not only makes you sympathize with those who were being discriminated upon but also those who fight for equality. Mockingbird is a perfect portrayal of childhood innocence, racial prejudice, moral tolerance and of course…..courage.

Slap Shot

(1977) A failing ice hockey team finds success using constant fighting and violence during games.

Runtime: 2h  Rated: R

Old time hockey boys and girls!  As a lifetime hockey player Slap Shot captures  hockey for what it is; fun, funny, raunchy, and sometimes violent. The banter between teammates and the chirping at the opposition is spot on. Slap Shot has unforgettable scenes and characters filled with memorable lines.