Greatest Movies of All Time 5-1

Here it is! The moment we have all been waiting for. The long awaited final 5. Just a reminded for those of you that may not have been following along from number 100. These are the 100 Greatest Movies of all time according to the American Film Institute. Over the past few years I have watched all 100 of them and ranked them in order from 1 - 100. These are my 5 favorite films on the list, they may or may not be my 5 favorite films of all time. That is another list for another time. Enjoy!

5. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) - Am I the only person in the world that thought it would be a blast to live in the mental institute with these funny fellas. They have the life. They get to play cards, watch TV, and have outside time. They also are fed, and given some great daily meds that people pay a hefty price for on the streets. I don't really see many negatives with the mental institute lifestyle.

Re-watching this film made me think of another place I sometimes wished I lived; the Horizon Bay Retirement Home. I am 100% serious and MANY people are familiar with this particular infatuation I have with the retirement home. Oftentimes I watch the pinpoint weather station (125 on Cox in Rhode Island) just to watch the retirement home commercial and think about what I have to look forward to in 50 years. I am not kidding; they have EVERYTHING you can think of; and all I will possibly need at 80. They have a pool/hottub, a gym, a lounge (with TV's), shuttle service, and a BAR!!!! I am telling you, the commercial gets me every time. It is reassuring that I will have somewhere to spend the rest of my days should nobody be able to take care of me if I am old or mentally unstable.

Tell me that this place does not look amazing!
Living Options:Independent Living Assisted Living
Community Features: Assistance with Activities of Daily Living Assistance with Special Diets Beauty & Barber Salon Care for Hospice Residents Clergy Services Complimentary Laundry Facilities Coordinating Health Care Services with other Providers Diabetic Care Elegant Dining Room with Fireplace and Grand Piano Full Fitness Program Fully Furnished Common Areas Library Lounge and Recreational Rooms Lovely Park-Like Setting with Walking Paths Meal Tray Delivery Medication Management Outdoor Patio Preventative Health Care Monitoring Private Dining Room Raised Garden Areas Restaurant-Style Dining State-of-the-Art Fire Safety System
Apartment Features:
All Utilities (Except Telephone) Convenient Kitchenettes with Refrigerator, Sink and Roomy Cabinets Emergency Call System Expanded Television Options Individually Controlled Heating & Air Conditioning Large Windows with Attractive Coverings Plush Wall to Wall Carpet Spacious Bathrooms with Emergency Pull Cords Two-way Voice Call System 

Look how much fun she is having!

Anyway, "Cuckoo's Nest" is one of my favorite movies of all time, as well as Jack Nicholson's best acting performance in my honest opinion. It made me laugh, cry, and secretly wish I had a mental disorder. What other movie can do that? (#33 on AFI list)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixZ07jg94EU


4. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) - Atticus. Scout. Jem. Dill. Boo. and Tom. Harper Lee obviously was tired of thinking of cool, original names by the time he got to Tom Robinson.The story of "To Kill a Mockingbird" is one of my favorite stories ever, and Atticus Finch is one of my heroes. I am going to come right out and say it now, but Atticus is DEFINITELY in my top 5 favorite fictional characters of all time. Look for the full list coming some time in late 2011.
One of my favorite scenes of any movie of all time is not from "To Kill a Mockingbird" however. It is from the classic, brilliant, profound, "Dumb and Dumber."Mock.YEAHHHHHH.INGYEAHHHHHHBIRD. YEAHHHHHHYEAHHHHHHYEAHHHHHH.......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5f_gbzo4Q0  Dumb and Dumber's Mock.ing.bird scene.

To sum things up; "To Kill a Mockingbird" reminds me of Mock. Yeah. Ing. Yeah. Bird. Yeah. Yeah Yeah, which reminds me of "Dumb and Dumber", which reminds me how awesome life is.

I remember I had to "read" "To Kill a Mockingbird" in high school. The thought of me reading a 281 page book in high school is hysterical. I had about the attention span of about 8 minutes, which allowed me to read about one and a half pages, if I was lucky. I am a painfully slow reader to boot.I don't know when my love for reading started, but it certainly was not until college was over. Who has time to read in college? Between socializing, partying, the occasional class, and list making, I was lucky if I had time to watch 30 hours of TV/Movies per week. I get stressed just thinking about my college days. (#25 on AFI list)


A calm, honorable Atticus Finch trying to talk some manners into his tom boy brat, Scout.


3. Forrest Gump (1994) - This is by far my most quoted movie. I would say that I quote "Forrest Gump" at least 5-6 times per week; probably more like 10 - 15 times per week. I can't remember the last time I was at a bar and had to go to the bathroom and did not say "I GOTTA PEEEEE" in Forrest Gump's voice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSEdBNslGOk   "I Gotta Pee" scene. :51

My second most quoted line from the film is "Well, that's all I have to say about that."

This is how I end just about every lesson while teaching. After 45 minutes of teaching and answering questions, and being a role model and disciplinarian, I often end a brilliant lesson with "that's all I have to say about thattttttttttt" obviously in Forrest Gump's voice. Oftentimes nobody has any idea why I am talking like I have special needs, but I think it is funny every time and I literally could not care any less if my students think I have special needs or not.


My third most quoted line from "Forrest Gump" is: "I got you some ice cream. Lt. Dan, ICEEEE CREAMMMMMM."
I will never be able to think of, or say, Ice Cream again and not think of this scene. I think it is my favorite scene of all time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jYcmJNYIMw

Other often quoted lines from the movie are:
"I got shot in the buttocks, wanna see?"
"And I Ran......"
"Seats Taken", "Cant sit here"

I think that the "Forrest Gump" soundtrack could be the number 1 soundtrack of all time. However, you will have to wait until my list of my 50 favorite soundtracks of all time is released sometime in the summer of 2012. (#76 on AFI list)
This clip is only NINE SECONDS LONG. JUST HIT PLAY!

2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) - I have never met anyone that has not loved this movie. It is brilliant and my favorite drama that has been released since I have been born. Who didn't want to be locked in jail with a life sentence after watching this film. The camaraderie and the brotherhood seems so exciting. These are friendships that will literally last a lifetime! Just like the friendships made at the Horizon Bay retirement center!
I have seen the movie probably 20 times and am still just as captivated as I was the first time I saw it.
It kind of makes me want to be in prison and devise an elaborate escape plan of my own. I am pretty sure I would be too lazy to follow through with the plan and just come to terms that I would be spending the rest of my life behind bars. Either that, or I would come up with an awful plan, and be shot and killed on my first attempt to escape. (#72 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SheaMMd8H5g   The escape scene. I always wondered how he puts the poster back up after he gets into the hole. I guess it is just movie magic.


and the winner is..............................


1. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) - Jimmy Stewart is my favorite actor of all time, Clarence is my favorite movie angel of all time and "Its a Wonderful Life" is my favorite movie of all time.
If I could have one wish it would be for Clarence to come visit me and to let me see what the world would be like if I never existed. I wonder where all of you would be if I never existed. What would you be doing right this second if I never existed. You would certainly NOT be reading ryanscountdowns.blog.com

Many people say they have seen this movie because they have seen "bits and pieces" of it each Christmastime. I am here to say "bits and pieces" DOES NOT COUNT. You need to watch this movie from the very first scene to the very last scene and it will be a completely different experience for you.

I understand that Clarence will never come down and walk me through the turmoil of the shamble our world had become sans Ryan Jacobson, but I can only imagine. I have brought such joy, laughter, good times, knowledge, warmth, and care to so many people (I am also good-looking and modest.) And you are all much better people for knowing me. (#20 on AFI list)


There he is. George Bailey.


Thanks for reading my list of The 100 Greatest Movies of all Time according to the American Film Institute, but ranked by me. I don't want to give too much away about what the next list is going to be, BUT I will give you a hint.
It has to do with TV shows, and it has to do with the order in which I like them.

Greatest Movies of All Time 10 - 6

10. Rocky (1976) - I have "Rocky" to thank for the dilemma I have about what I will name my firstborn daughter, should I ever have a daughter. If "Rocky" was never released her name would hands down be "Stella" so I could yell "STTTTEEEEEELLLLLLLLAAAAAAAA" whenever I wanted to get her attention (Streetcar Named Desire.) Now, thanks to "Rocky" I have to take into consideration yelling "Yo ADRIAN" any time I needed my daughter for something. Maybe I will name her Adrian Stella and that will solve that problem.
I cannot think of "Rocky" and not think of "Eye of the Tiger." I am going to put the over/under at 450 for how many times I will listen to "Eye of the Tiger" from now until May 7th (while training for the Tough Mudder 2011.)
If any of my Tough Mudder teammates read this, remind me that I need to make us all CD's in order to get properly prepared / pumped up for the event. Some other selections on our pump-up CD may include Jewel's "Foolish Games," Boyz II Men's "I'll Make Love to You," and that Sarah McLaughlin song that is played during that commercial where she wants us to save dogs from dying or something. (#57 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1L8uRApYeQ    I almost forgot. NOTHING pumps me up more than Enya's "Caribbean Blue." Really any Enya for that matter.

9. The Philadelphia Story (1940) - My second favorite Jimmy Stewart film on the list. This might be the most talented cast of any movie I have ever seen. Sure 2001's "The Animal" had Rob Schneider and Colleen Haskell, but "The Philadelphia Story" has Jimmy Stewart, Katharine Hepburn, and Cary Grant!
It is such a simple move; there are no special effects, there are no big sets; it is just three of the greatest actors of all time doing what they do best. The ONLY way this movie could be topped is if Tori Spelling starred in a remake and her suitors were played by Macaulay Culkin and Dustin Diamond. The world will never be fortunate enough to have that much talent in one place. (#44 on AFI list)

"The Philadelphia Story 2011"
            

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CtquHsxoZo    Here is the real trailer for the film.


8. The Graduate (1967) - Besides Ferris Bueller, Benjamin Braddock might be my favorite film character of all time. Every time I am floating in my parents swimming pool I pretend I am Benjamin and don't have a care in the world.
I try to use the phrase "You're trying to seduce me, aren't you?" at least once a month. Unfortunately, the older I get, the less frequently I am able to use it.
I think this film should be shown to every male high school senior before they graduate. It is a shame that school systems now a days are focused on standardized tests and graduation portfolios, and not what really matters; the importance of understanding that old women are people too! (#17 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnW59E-zyZY   Mrs. Robinson - A Tribute


7. On the Waterfront (1954) - This was the 99th movie I watched of the 100 and I can not believe that I waited so long to watch it. I believe this is Marlon Brando's best performance of his career and the "I coulda been a contender" scene gives me goosebumps. Here it is....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0waNRaz6wU

As cool and masculine as Brando is, why does it always look like he wears makeup on his eyes. Not the powder stuff, the stuff that is like in a small fingernail polish bottle. Mascara? Is that what it is called?

Almost everyone knows the "I coulda been a contender" line, but many people have never seen this film. If you have never seen it, you have no idea what you are missing. I can not imagine any human being on the planet watching this film and not loving it. A little known fact is that this movie was Mother Teresa's favorite movie of all time*. So WATCH IT!!!!!! (#19 on AFI list)




* fine, I made up the line about the movie being Mother Teresa's favorite movie of all time, but I wouldn't be surprised if she said she liked it.






6. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) - I never knew how much of a dork I was until I watched The Lord of the Rings for the first time about a year ago. I feel awful about all the countless times I made fun of people (family, friends, co-workers, students, strangers, etc.) about loving "The Lord of the Rings" ; all the people I beat up just because they were holding a JRR Tolken book, or wearing a LoTR T-Shirt. All the unnecessary tears others have shed because they thought I was going to laugh at them if they admitted they liked the saga.
All this time I was the one that was foolish. I was the nerd because I refused to watch the movie. I almost skipped this movie on the list because that is how adamant I was in refusing to like Lord of the Rings.
Needless to say, I loved it. I do not own any LoTR memorabilia yet, and have not been to any LoTR conventions, but it is not out of the question.
Of course, I only watched the first one, but I cannot believe how good it was, and apologize from the bottom of my heart for all the awful things I have said about you for liking The Lord of the Rings. (#50 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pki6jbSbXIY

P.S. I give you all free reign to make fun of me all you want for ranking it this high. I deserve it.

Greatest Movies of All Time 15 - 11

15. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) - I know how angry I get when I misplace my possessions. Some of the angriest moments of my entire life have been when I have been searching for a misplaced remote control or cell phone. I seriously do not think there has been more than a 2-3 day span in the past ten years in which I have NOT lost a major belonging of mine.
Therefore, my heart goes out to Indiana Jones and Co. I can't even imagine how stressed out I would be if I lost an ARK.
My ark is one of my only belongings that I have never lost. It is always on my nightstand and if I ever use it, I always put it right back in its spot. I would like to thank "Raiders of the Lost Ark" for teaching me how valuable my ark is and how much of a hassle it could be for me to recover my ark should it ever be lost/stolen. Before this movie came out I use to misplace my ark all the time. Thankfully the film came out when I was one year old and the valuable lesson has stuck with me for the remainder of my life.
On a side note, here are the 5 sequels that I desperately need to be made; all of which will add countless hours to my life.
#5 - Raiders of the Lost Remote Control - This is what I spend most of my free time doing; looking for my remote control. I could pick up a new hobby with all the free time I would have if "Raiders of the Lost Remote Control" taught me to not misplace my remote anymore.
#4 - Raiders of the Lost Ipod - Why do I even bother getting new Ipods? Sure they are fun when you know where they are, but come on, how often is that?
#3 - Raiders of the Lost Keys - It is VERY seldom that I lose my keys in my home because the first thing I do when I walk in the door is put them down in their special spot. I do, however, have a VERY difficult time keeping track of them when I am at work, or out on the town. Last summer I lost my keys while bartending at the beach. FOR THREE DAYS. I couldn't use my car; it stayed in the parking lot for days. I couldn't get in my home because nobody had the new spare key yet. I basically just slept on couches and wore the same clothes for a few days. Luckily another bartender found them and my life was restored. It was one of the top 10 best moments of my life; mainly because I was reunited with my Third Eye Blind keychain which has been with me for years and years. The thought of my 3eb keychain in the garbage or someone elses possession was almost too much for me to handle.
#2 - Raiders of the Lost Wallet - I have probably lost my wallet over 300 times in my almost twenty years of carrying a wallet. I have, however, shockingly, never lost it permanently. I have lost it for days / weeks at a time, but it has always found its way back to me. Even after I have given up all hope of ever finding it, it somehow makes it way back to me. I have left it in parking lots, on atm machines, blockbuster counters, and countless bar tops near the mega touch machine. Thanks to the kindness of strangers, it ALWAYS has been returned. You know what they say, "It takes a village to keep track of a wallet."
#1 - Raiders of the Lost Cell Phone - I have to admit, I sometimes secretly love when I lose my cell phone because it means that I don't have to answer it and nobody will bother me. I can just throw a status up on facebook explaining that I will be out of contact until my cell phone has been located and lay back and enjoy the peace and quiet. However, when I need my cell phone and can not find it I sometimes start to panic. I can feel the blood boiling in my face as I am frantically searching. I have more of a love/hate relationship with cell phones than with anything or anyone on this planet.

I know most of these Indiana Jones flicks all blend together, and they are all great, but this one is a classic and deserves to be this high on the list. No matter what Indiana Jones movie anyone is ever talking about my first response is ALWAYS "Is that the one where that guy rips the heart out of that other guy?" Most of the time even the person talking about the movie doesn't know.
My next question is always "Is that the one with the giant ball?" and the answer if usually still a mystery to everyone. They really should all just be one long movie because I do not think anyone has any idea how to distinguish between them. (#66 on AFI list)


A scene from "Raiders of the Lost Ark."      I think.


14. The Godfather (1972) - "WHAT!?!?!?!?!?!" "Is he joking????" "Did you read ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com last night?!?! What an IDIOT!" "I HATE HIM" "LETS KILL HIM."

These are some of the reactions that are sure to be heard at the water cooler tomorrow. HOW could I POSSIBLY place THE GODFATHER at number 14? I am sure I just lost all credit with hundreds of devoted followers, but I can not place this above any of the remaining films, and I am fine with that. To tell you the truth, I only feel like it is this high because of all the brainwashing society has done to me about this movie. I never really had a choice as to whether or not I liked this movie. The answer has always been, "yes Ryan, you like this movie."

I do like the movie. I like it a lot. I just do not LOVE the movie the way that many others do. First of all the beginning kind of drags a little bit. Second of all, this movie is simply not my style; I typically tend to enjoy more feel good movies; not feel bad movies. I am not in the mafia, nor will I ever be. I do not have an obsession with the mafia and mafia related films/tv shows the way that many others do. I have seen the Sopranos, and thought it was good, but it is far from my favorite (that is my way of warning my brother to be prepared for the Sopranos to be in the 90's when I release my Top 100 TV Shows of all Time List.)
I apologize to any family members/friends/fans that are mad at me, but I placed it as high as I possibly could allow myself to place it. I hope you still finish reading the list and will return to ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com for future lists, as I am sure you will forgive me over time.

I better go deadbolt my door now. (#2 on AFI list)


13. The Godfather II (1974) - Here we go again. I like this is little more than The Godfather because it is broken up into different stories and I like when movies/books do that. Other than that, there is no real reason this is one above its predecessor. If I somehow manage to not get shot because I placed The Godfather, and The Godfather II so low on the list I will be very thankful. (#32 on AFI list)


12. Titanic (1997) - I don't care how queer the movie may be, I like it a lot. I kind of even love it. I am secure enough in who I am to be able to admit that I love Titanic. There, I said it. I LOVE TITANIC.
It feels so invigorating to be able to say that after 14 years. Leo DiCaprio is my favorite living actor and Kate Winslet is probably in my top 5 favorite living actresses. I kind if hate Cathy Bates, but her role in the film is so minuscule that it does not really effect anything.
Since I already admitted that I love "Titanic" I might as well go ahead and admit how much I like "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion as well. Of course it was VERY overplayed in the late 90's but I kind of think it is epic. I remember everyone always making fun of the song and saying "OH I hate that song" or "If I hear this song one more time I am going to kill myself." I would always be like "Yeah, I know. It SUCKS." But deep down inside I loved it. If Itunes was around in the late 90s, not only would I have bought the song, but it more than likely would be the 15th most played song on my itunes; only behind the entire debut CD from Third Eye Blind. (#83 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saalGKY7ifU    "My Heart Will Go On"

and yes. I did just buy it on itunes and don't care what anyone thinks.
I seriously want to start a rock band (and obviously be the lead singer) just to do a rock cover of this song, have it sell millions of copies, then retire)


11. Singing' in the Rain (1952) -I am embarrassed to say that I had never seen this movie until I started the quest to watch all 100 movies. It instantly became one of my favorite movies and I plead with you all to watch it if you have never seen it. Gene Kelly is the closest thing to perfection as a human being can get. He is one of the best singers, dancers, and actors of all time. Granted Keanu Reeves can sure belt out a tune or two and his acting skills are impeccable, but he lacks a little in the tap dancing department. (#5 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdxCx7GilbQ   Here is the "Singin' in the Rain" scene. If you do not love this scene and admit he is amazing, you deserve nothing but awful things to happen to you, and I hope your life is filled with misery and heartache.

TOP TEN COMING SOON!!!!!!!!

Greatest Movies of All Time 20 - 16

Due to my busy week I have limited this entry to 5. I have been bombarded with complaints and worries as to when the next list would be revealed. I apologize for any boredom you may all have had to endure in the past 12 days since my last post, but I assure you that with February vacation coming up..... you will have to wait even longer, because I only do this while I am in school giving my students busy work.
I am kidding. Please do not call my school committee or start a petition to have me fired. I use my limited free time to write such lovely words. Without further adieu, #15 - #11. Enjoy!

20. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) - My third favorite Jimmy Stewart film on the list. "Mr. Smith goes to Washington" is an accurate portrayal of American democracy. Jimmy Stewart plays Mr. Jefferson Smith; head of the boy scouts turned US Senator. This is not far fetched at all seeing Sean Duffy from The Real World Boston (and former lumberjack) is now a part of our House of Representatives.
My favorite scene in the film is the final scene when Mr. Smith launches into a last ditch effort to prevent a particularly terrible bill from being passed; he uses the ever popular filibuster. Who doesn't love a good filibuster every now and then? Not only is it a very fun word to say, it is a genius way of preventing something from happening.
My middle school students were the best filibusters in the world, as they knew exactly how to get me off topic and make me talk for hours on end about rock music, television, or my list of things to do before I die.
I know they probably could not care any less about how I sometimes tear up while watching "The Biggest Loser", but they pretended, and it made me feel loved. They knew that I physically can not NOT talk about Third Eye Blind or The Killers, and often they would make comments like "Have you ever seen the "Mr. Brightside" video (to which I would obviously respond with a dirty look and a sarcastic "NO?"), or "What are your top 5 favorite Third Eye Blind concerts of all time?" conveniently before a major quiz or test.
(#26 on AFI list)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWyEc7FAMTg    A VERY frazzled Jimmy Stewart at the end of his long, energy-sucking, filibuster. (He faints at the end, and a little known fact about me is that fainting might be my biggest fear in the world.) I want to successfully go my entire life without fainting.


19. The Wizard of Oz (1939) - The only thing I remember about this movie is that it starts in color, then all of a sudden it turns to black and white, and then the end of the film, when the girl is in bed (I forget the girls name) the movie goes back to color. I am 100% positive that that is accurate. I vividly remember the middle of the film being in black and white and really tall people came out of the woods and starting singing some song about a grey bricked street.
Oh, I also remember the girls grandparents (I am sure they were her grandparents and not her parents or her aunt and uncle) were VERY wealthy and they lived in a big, beautiful mansion. The girl had a HUGE bedroom with really nice sliding windows that would never break if a storm came.
I remember the girl had a stupid cat that she took everywhere with her, even when she was riding on her motorcycle she would put that cat (OtOt was his name) in her front basket.

I just looked up some more info on the film from wikipedia and I now vaguely remember the girl making three friends while vacationing in Kansas. I KNOW they were in Kansas in the middle of the film. She even said to her cat, "OtOt, I am sure we are in Kansas now."
The first friend she made LOVED smoking and sitting real close to campfires.
The second friend she made love collecting soda cans and going to the recycling center every weekend. He also loved dancing in the rain.
The third friend she made was a lion and his name was Simba and his fathers name was Mufasa. His dad died at the beginning of the film, and this lion was very brave, just like his father.

It is a great movie, and I also heard that if you press play right when the MGM tiger roars at the beginning of the film and if you press play on New Kids on the Block's first CD at the same time, the entire movie and CD are in sync. It is real trippy. (#10 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5s8LURnmpc   He is an interview with all the really tall people that came out of the woods singing; they seem to be a little smaller now.

18. Star Wars (1977) - There are very, and I mean VERY, few things in this world I like to do more than imitate Chewbaca. I feel as though I do the best Chewbaca impression out of everyone I know.

I DID NOT PLAN ON THIS, BUT............
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8aEDaeBMyI  I just searched for Chewbaca impression on youtube and I can not believe what I just found. Most of you have read my blog and been entertained for hours and hours on end. PLEASE do me one small favor and watch this video I PROMISE there is a zero% chance you will NOT laugh very hard at this. Even if you just watch the first :26 seconds, that is enough. I believe you will even be laughing hysterically by :09 seconds. If you don't find this VERY funny, you have serious problems.

I don't even want to talk about Star Wars anymore. I just want to keep watching the first :26 of that youtube clip.
As most of you know I tend to be very passionate about a lot of things. My first passion / obsession of all time was with Princess Leia. To this day she is in a close running with Smurfette for my number 1 favorite female fictional children's character of all time.
I am not kidding when I ask this.... but, is this the same film that has Yoda in it? Because I love him too, although I can not do a Yoda impression. I am always so jealous when I hear people that can. I think I now need to youtube the how to talk like Yoda tutorial. (#13 on AFI list)


17. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982) - For some odd reason I always liked ALF more than E.T. when I was younger. I do not think I have ever admitted that to anyone before, but here I am announcing it to the world. As a grown man, I am humiliated, and dumbfounded as to how 10 year old Ryan thought that it was okay to own an ALF stuffed animal, and be scared of my older brother's E.T. stuffed animal. If I could go back in time and give little Ryan 2 pieces of advise as to what NOT to be scared of it would definitely be my brothers ET stuffed animal, and of course Charlie Chaplin.
ALF might be a little edgier that ET, but ET is such a nice alien, and seems so innocent and endearing. I am VERY confident that if/when I ever have children I will never physically abuse them, however, if my son is ever scared of ET, at any point in his life, I may seriously have to think about hitting him really really hard.
(#24 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4yUQJeKZNs

     VS                   
Ryan's favorite children's alien - Age 10                    Ryan's favorite children's alien age 31

I hate to sound arrogant or over-confident, but I am much cooler now than I was 21 years ago.



16. Saving Private Ryan (1998) - If I had to make a list of my favorite name of any movie of all time, this would be number 2. How could I not give the number 1 spot to Gigli? I feel so intelligent when I say "Gigli." Unfortunately, "Gigli" somehow does not make the cut for the top 100 flicks of all time, but I had to at least give it a shout out.
Saving Private Ryan Jacobson is such an intense movie and the acting is done beautifully. Who would have NOT demanded a refund if Ryan was not saved? Matt Damon not only made me feel like I knew Ryan, he made me feel like I WAS Ryan.

On a serious note.... I have never... in my life....... met a Ryan that I did not like.
Seriously think about it.
Ryan Jacobson
Ryan Seacrest
Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Phillippe
Ryan Star
Ryan Starr (NOT a typo, there are 2)
Ryan Gosling
Nolan Ryan
The character Ryan from the television show O.C.

You get my point. And NO, I did not just do a google search to find famous Ryans.

Fine. Yes I did. I was stuck after me and Ryan Seacrest. But, honestly, let me know if you ever come across a Ryan that you do not adore. (#71 on AFI list)

Greatest Movies of All Time 30 - 21

30. The Sound of Music (1965) - The only way this movie could have been better is if the "Do Re Me" song was playing throughout the entire film. I have no idea why I like it so much, but I do. Is that the same song about all of her favorite things? I forget. If it is a different song, then I like that one a lot too. I am beginning to think I might need to get "The Sound of Music" soundtrack. I can't think of walking into FYE and buying anything more embarrassing than the "Sound of Music" soundtrack; well maybe the "Cabaret" soundtrack. I would obviously have to buy it around mid December and lie to the check out girl that it was a Christmas present for my mother or something like that.
I suppose I could just buy it on Itunes, but then the tracks may come on as I was at the gym and I would be stressed out at the end of every song thinking that "Do Re Me" was going to come on next and the person running next to me on the treadmill would see it.
I guess I'll just have to watch the youtube videos in the privacy of my own home if I feel the urge to listen to any "Song of Music" songs. I hate society.(#40 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dpGmAc3kMk    How can you NOT like this. It is not like it pumps me up or anything, but it is awesome........ Fine it kind of pumps me up.
I have, however, always HATED the "La" part of the song. She really could not come up with anything better than "a note to follow so?"
I think I like it so much because I love singing songs with an accent. This song makes it very easy for me to do.
Julie Andrews is definitely the nicest, calmest, laid back person of all time. How much patience does one need to have, after getting bit by a dog, stung by a bee, and feeling sad, to simply think of some stupid ugly whiskers on a cat and it will make them happy?

29. Sunset Boulevard (1950) - I LOVE how crazy this lady is in Sunset Boulevard. The final scene when she says "All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up" is unforgettable. The last five minutes might be one of my top ten favorite final five minutes of any film. I just think it is hysterical how crazy she went and thinks that the news crews are NOT there to watch her get arrested for murder. I have always heard that quote (and liked it) even before I watched the movie, but after seeing it in the context of the film, it is one of my favorite movie quotes ever! (#16 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOLypkY8LMc    I want to be friends with her!

28. A Clockwork Orange (1971) - By far the most messed up movie of all time. There are many scenes in this flick which will be burned into my memory for the rest of my life. The scene where he is getting the "treatment" and they force his eye lids open and keep putting solution in his eyes is so disturbing, which makes ts so memorable. I have just realized that there may be something wrong with me, because I really like the lead guy in the film. In the span of the first hour of the movie he beats an elderly man, steals a car, breaks into houses, rapes, murders, and gets drunk. HOWEVER, he does love the song "Singin' in the Rain" and so do I. How bad can he really be? I think he is just misunderstood. (#70 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWvWyYz9ttk   I really don't get all the hate. He does such a good rendition of the song.

27. Gone with the Wind (1939) - Why did nobody tell me that this movie had nothing to do with kite flying? Color me shocked. You can imagine my surprise when, I found out this movie did not even contain one single kite. Not that I am a HUGE fan of kite flying, but I do like to watch a good kite flying movie every now and then. To be honest, I personally HATE flying kites. Not only am I terrible at flying kites (I can not even get it off the ground), but I also get real tired trying to fly them, and give up very quickly. I also feel as though I look like a complete moron while I am doing all this. Is it even possible to fly a kite and look good/cool doing it? Maybe I will take kite flying lessons this summer, but obviously in the privacy of my own home so I am not judged.
You could not pay me enough money to strip down to my bathing suit and go to the shore line on a hot summer day and run up and down the beach like an idiot with everyone watching me and laughing at how awful I am. During my eight years of lifeguarding (of course I was head lifeguard for about 3 of those years, but no big deal) I can not even begin to count how many grown men I have seen trying to fly a kite. The kites land in the ocean and get all wet, or the string gets wrapped around innocent bystanders body parts, and it never, NEVER, went well.
I remember getting so angry, and while I am not a violent person at all, I often had an uncontrollable urge to punch them all in the head.
But, "Gone with the Wind" is a very good movie, even though it had nothing to do with kites. (#6 on AFI)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgbYRljEaJk   Here is the trailer for the movie "The Kite Runner", a REAL kite flying movie. If you are mad that I included the trailer for "The Kite Runner" and not "Gone with the Wind" I am sorry. But frankly, my dears, I don't give a damn.

26. Schindler's List (1993) - I do not have any clue what this movie is about, but it has the word "list" in its title and that itself makes it one of my favorite movies of all time. I like lists.
I do have to admit though, that I think I am a better list maker than Mr. Schindler. I don't want to brag or anything, but I almost have 1000 hits on ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com. I don't see Mr. Schindler owning, creating, and writing a blog with his "list" on it. I think I, too, will make my lists into a major motion film and I am sure it will be more successful than "Schindler's List" will ever be. Obviously I will be played by Mr. Leonardo DiCaprio and the Soundtrack will be written, produced, and performed by Mr. Brandon Flowers (with me guest starring as backup vocals, and lead vocals for a few songs.) Colleen Haskell from Survivor 1 will play my love interest, and I will see if I can get that guy from "A Clockwork Orange" to play a lovable, yet edgy friend of mine.
I was obviously kidding when I said I did not know what the movie is about. It is a wonderful movie and is sure to give Ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com's List a run for its money at the Box Office. (#8 on AFI list)
ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com - Trailer coming soon!!!!!!! Look for "Ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com's List" in theaters May of 2012. Here is a sneak peak at the DVD artwork..... and YES, I have been working out!

25. It Happened One Night (1934) - There is not a single reason I can think of as to why I like this film so much. It is very simple, but for some reason I am in love with it. Maybe because it was directed by Frank Capra, and starred Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert? I really have no idea. Maybe I should watch it again and re-evaluate it. Maybe I had a few glasses of wine or something when I was watching it because I barely remember it, or anything about it, but I am 100% positive that I loved it. Now I am stressed out. WHERE AM I GOING TO FIND time to re watch a movie? (#46 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALmnUBqbhuo   Yep. The trailer did nothing for me. I still don't remember why I loved it. Ugh.


24. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966) I AM!!!!!!!!!!! Well, actually I am afraid of Elizabeth Taylor, she is the star of this film; and who isn't a little scared of her.
I am not going to give the ending of the film away, because it is a shocker, much like "The Sixth Sense" but really nothing like "The Sixth Sense." I highly recommend watching this film and would be shocked if you don't like it. Also, just so you all know, this film does NOT take place in Virginia, nor does it feature any Wolves. (#67)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIcPN7CTCOg

23. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) - I wish I could give all 23 remaining movies a top five finish, but that simply is not possible. "Bonnie and Clyde" is unbelievably great. It is so wonderful that we have a co-ed couple for children to look up to and learn from if they ever want to dabble into the world of bank robbery. They really are wonderful role models in that regard and all parents should begin having their children watch the adventures of Bonnie and Clyde as early as they can. Usually I think of bank robbers being ugly, dirty, and simply people that I would not particularly surround myself with. However, both Bonnie and Clyde are very good looking and clean, and I would be honored to call them my friends (although I would want no part in their bank robbing schemes. I would be way to nervous if I got involved and more than likely ruin it for them.) I would feel bad about scaring the bank tellers and then apologize until the police showed up and arrested me.
Just last week I went into the bank and got some cash out of my checking account. It was obviously about zero degrees because we get a blizzard once a week, but it was not until I got back in the car that I realized why the tellers seemed scared of me. When I looked in the rear view mirror I realized that I looked like a bank robber because I had my jacket zipped up to right under my mouth, and my warm winter wool hat (alliteration) was pulled down to just above my eyes. I felt so bad because I think that the tellers thought that I was a bank robber and seemed very nervous and timid, not their jovial selves.
If anyone knows any Wednesday afternoon bank tellers at Citizens Bank in Westerly, RI, please apologize to them for me. (#42 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BizxiDtFdrI    Look how good looking they are. I would GLADLY accept them in my circle of friends. We all have our flaws, so what if theirs is killing and robbing.
What is wrong with me? I am kind of serious. I was kind of kidding about the "Clockwork Orange" guy, Hannibal Lector, and Norman Bates, but I really want to be friends with Bonnie and Clyde.

OK I wasn't really kidding about the "Clockwork Orange" guy either.
Or Norman Bates.




Or Dr, Hannibal Lector.
I need help.

22. Raging Bull (1980) - I apparently love Boxing. Who knew?
I mean of course I LOVE "The Contender" but that is only because it is an elimination reality show. I never realized that I have never seen a boxing film that I did not love. Maybe I should delve into the boxing world. I think I may not be a violent person because my brother told me that I hit like a girl for about 24 years of my life. I think there is some deep rooted self-esteem issues I have when it comes to punching people. All I can imagine is that I punch someone in the face and then they simply look at me, laugh, and say "you hit like a girl." Thanks a lot Cory. You have single handily made me into a non-violent person. Jerk.
Oh, and mom and dad love me more. (#4 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiVOwxsa4OM   Fortunately there is no video evidence (that I am aware of) of me punching anyone. Thank God that my brother and I don't get into fist fights anymore because with all the technology these days, it would be much easier for one to capture me punching him on film.

21. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) -You guessed it. I love these outlaws too. Maybe I need some more violent, reckless friends. The final scene of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" breaks my heart. I want to help them. I want to protect them. There is simply nothing I could have done though. I suppose they brought it on all by themselves. They had plenty of chances to redeem themselves, they just could not stay away from the rush they got from robbing.
Their deaths were inevitable, although I like to think they are in a much better place now, and one day, if I am lucky enough, I will meet them on the other side and shake their hands.
OK, and maybe a hug. I am a hugger after all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0UzG-Gc7II    Did they REALLY need to shoot them that many times. The pain just kept coming and coming and coming.
I am, of course, referring to my pain, not theirs. I just wanted it to end already.

Greatest Movies of All Time 40 - 31

40. Goodfellas (1990) - The irony of the title of this movie is puzzling. These are not GOODfellas at all, they are BADfellas. The "F" word is used over 300 times in the flick; that is about once every 2.06 minutes. In case anyone is keeping track, 300 F#!@ 's places "Goodfellas" in ninth place for all time "F's" in a single film. Number one should not even count, because it is a documentary entitled "F***" and is about the word itself and its contribution to society; it is used 824 times.
Despite all the foul language, "Goodfellas" is one of the best films to come out of the nineties and certainly deserves a spot in my top forty. (#92 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_ff46b58Hk    He is funny. Like Haha funny.



39. Citizen Kane (1941) - This film does not get enough credit, it is almost always overlooked by critics and list makers.
If you have any idea of film knowledge you already know that I am being sarcastic. "Citizen Kane" is widely known as the greatest film of all time. It is number one on AFI's list and almost all best movies of all time lists. The movie is great and "Rosebud" is one of my favorite words of all time. It was difficult to not place this film a little higher, but I do not want to be swayed by other lists, this is about my favorite movies of these hundred, and to be honest, there are a lot I like better than "Citizen Kane." (#1 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jipboWI9uiE     "Rosebud" - The most famous single word in movie history.

38. Pulp Fiction (1994) - There are so many classic quotes from this movie that even if you do not love this movie I am sure you know quotes from it. I have even went out of my way to order a quarter pounder with cheese before just because I wanted to say royal with cheese, but I got scared and did not say it. I always chicken out and do not say royal with cheese, but one day I will.
Also, the scene of John Travolta accidentally shooting the guy in the back seat of the car in the head is hilarious. I laugh every time I see it. (#94 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLtwFugudZE   Royal with Cheese scene.

37. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) - I just watched "The Bridge on the River Kwai" a few months ago and I loved it. It was one of the last movies on the list that I watched and I don't know why I waited so long. The movie was phenomenal from the first scene to the last scene, although, while I loved the last scene because of the action and the famous bridge blowing up, I hated it because so many of my favorites died, and I hate it when my favorites die at the end.
Also, I have always hated the fact that it is called "Bridge on the River Kwai" Can someone please tell me why it is not called "Bridge on the Kwai River?" Am I being a complete moron here, or does anyone else agree that it is very confusing. (#36 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFMmJMNRv-Q

36. The Grapes of Wrath (1940) - Thank God that I watched this movie by myself because I think I cried on a few separate occasions. I'm not talking Biggest Loser, or more recently American Idol crying, but I shed a tear or two. I could not help it, but the end is very sad, and it is not even suppose to be sad. It is suppose to be uplifting and positive, but I don't really see it that way. I guess I am not that deep; I just take things for face value.
The thought of my mother reacting as calmly as Henry Fonda's mother reacted when she found out that she would probably never see her son again is laughable. My mother would have fainted the second I started talking, which would have forced me to stay and make sure she was OK, which would inevitably lead to my capture and ultimately my death. So luckily for Henry Fonda, his mother clearly did not care about him as much as my mother cares about me. (#23 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yer4L1Uhayc    Henry Fonda telling his mother he had to leave and would probably never see her again.

35. High Noon (1952) - By far one of the best Westerns I have ever seen. The movie takes place in real time. It is the 85 minutes before a train is going to arrive in their town, which will be carrying a fresh-out-of-prison bad guy. It is kind of like the TV show 24, but a Western. To tell you the truth, I do not know why I loved it so much, as I typically do not love Westerns, but I loved everything about it (the acting, the plot, the way they sucked down the shots of whiskey at the local tavern.)
There is another reason why I would be the worst cowboy of all time. Sure I can handle one or two shots of whiskey every now and then, but to drink it like they did and not even have a Bud Light chaser????? Come on. My stomach would literally explode after just a few days of hanging in the Wild Wild West. (#27 on AFI list)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkNu4-sSglY    Can someone that actually watched this trailer please tell me what an "Annal" is. Why am I 31 and have never heard that word. That is hilarious.


34. Casablanca (1942) - This is another film in which I was shocked that it made the list. I have never even heard of this movie before, or any other the actors/actress in it.
Kidding. Actually this movie was one of the main reasons that I decided to watch all 100 of the movies. I realized that I had not seen a lot of these classic movies and this was one in particular that I was disgusted with myself that I had not seen. I obviously had very high expectations for the film, and for the most part, they lived up to them. I think the movie was great, and there are so many classic lines that I can not even begin to count them all. I do have to admit, however, that there were a few parts that dragged on for me. I am in no way saying that I did not really enjoy the movie, I simply lost a bit of focus during a few parts.
And, if you know me, I never lose focus with anything. I am always paying attention at meetings, and lectures. In fact, people usually look to me when they daze off and are in need of detailed notes as to what the speaker is talking about.
They are usually puzzled, however, when they look at my paper, expecting to see detailed notes of the lectures because I am so vehemently writing away. The look on their face when, instead of seeing notes, they see lists such as "The 100 Hottest Girls ever on The Real World" or "Top 50 Bands that begin with the letter "A." Hey, I need something to do to pass the time in meetings, lectures, and classes. (#3 on AFI list)

One of my dreams in life is to go to a bar in which a guy named Sam is playing nothing but 90's Rock Music. In between each song I would yell to Sam the name of the song I wanted to hear. I would then yell "Play it Sam" "Sing it Sam" and obviously when he was done, I would yell at the top of my lungs "PLAY IT AGAIN SAM!!!!!!!!!!!"     I can dream, can't I?
Here is the scene which inspired my dream.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vThuwa5RZU


33. Rear Window (1954) - This is my FOURTH favorite Jimmy Stewart film left on the list. That means *SPOILER ALERT* that are are still 3 Jimmy Stewart (or James as I sometimes like to call him) films left in the top 32. There has never been, nor will there ever be, another actor like this guy. James Dean had the potential and if he was not such a reckless driver, he could have given Jimmy a run for his money. Also, for some reason I really like Leonardo DiCaprio. I am in no way prepared to put Leo in the same category as the two Jimmy's but he is a distant third and hopefully has another good 70 years before he retires/dies. I don't know if I will be able to handle it if Leo meets the same fate as Jimmy S and Jimmy D. Both of their deaths were so hard on me and I don't think I can handle saying goodbye to Leo too.
OH. "Rear Window" is SO good too. Watch it! (#48 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-B6rfV_wH4U    My 4th year of college I actually lived in an apartment complex much like Jimmy's in "Rear Window." I would always sit at the window and spy on everyone else and pretend I was Jimmy Stewart. Sometimes I would even wrap an ace bandage around my leg and pretend it was broken like Jimmy's. The girl I lived with at the time (Colleen) would always come home and see me in the window and all the other cats in everyone else's window. It was me and those damn cats all day long, just staring at each other.
I knew exactly what time the Meals on Wheels truck would come and feed my elderly neighbors each day (12:16pm.) I was always jealous and secretly could not wait until I was elderly so someone would come and feed me. The meals always looked so good, but I am sure they were gross. I always imagined they tasted like hospital food. I knew exactly what time everyone went to work, and I knew exactly what time everyone came back from class. I would even get worried if they did not arrive on time. I know it seems very creepy, but if Jimmy Stewart does it how bad can it be?
Luckily (for my neighbors now) all I can see when I look out my windows are trees and the road. LAME!

32. Sullivan's Travels (1941) - Never heard of it? Me neither before I watched it. Who knew that such an unknown movie could almost crack the top 30. I like to call this flick my Dark Horse. The plot is genius. It is about a very wealthy Hollywood movie director. He wants to make a film which depicts the troublesome economy. He decides to become poor (for a month or so), and see what it is like in the shoes of people not fortunate enough as him. I know that it sounds like they ripped off the FOX series "Secret Millionaire" but I think "Sullivan's Travels" came out first.
One thing leads to another and the man ends up in a series of unfortunate events. I'm not talking about Count Olaf and the Baudelaire Orphans, I am talking about him being mistaken for a homeless bum and charged with murder!!! (#61 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teTQF04jxRc   Very funny, very cleaver film. Check it out.


31. Psycho (1960) - Much like how I feel towards Dr. Hannibal Lector, I kind of have a soft spot in my heart for Norman Bates. I feel bad for the guy. I forgive him for killing his mother and her lover, but I can not really forgive him for killing Janet Leigh (Marion Crane.) I really hope they did not give Bates the death penalty because he obviously has severe mental issues and did not know what he was doing when the murders took place. I may even be able to forgive him after a few years of extreme mental therapy and 40 - 50 years in jail. (#14 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG3-GlvKPcg   If this does not make you want to watch/rewatch this film, I don't think anything will.

Greatest Movies of All Time 50 - 41

50. Apocalypse Now (1979) - "Apocalypse Now" is such a bizarre movie. I kept going back and worth while watching it as to whether or not I even liked it. Once I got to the final few scenes, however, I realized how incredible the film is. Martin Sheen and Marlon Brando both give unforgettable performances, and the supporting cast is also pretty damn good. This film also gives us the quote "I love the smell of napalm in the morning" which is pretty classic.
If watching these 100 movies has done anything for me, it has proven to me how awful I would be at pretty much ANY job besides teaching and bartending. We are only 50 movies in and so far I realized I would be the worst Cowboy, Astronaut, Detective, Juror, Gold Miner, or Dwarf of all time. (#30 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tt0xxAMTp8M


49. The Silence of the Lambs (1991) - Am I the only one that kind of likes Dr. Hannibal Lecter? Maybe I am, but I don't care. First of all, I kind of can't stand Jodie Foster or Clarice. I think Jodie Foster is just so lame. Has she EVER done a role in which she is fun? I can't help but look at her in any movie she is in and think "she would be the least fun friend of all time." I know that may sound kind of weird, but she just bothers me. GREAT movie though and my brother often makes the claim that it is the second best movie of the 90's behind "Braveheart." CLEARLY he has never seen "Don't Tell Mom the Babysitters Dead" OR "Cable Guy." (#74 on AFI list)

In lieu of a "Silence of the Lambs" clip I decided to include a nice segment from BBC on Cannibalism. I thought it was fitting.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DeVovHw1RY


48. Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942) - Of all 100 movies on the list, this was the most pleasantly surprising to me. I was so angry when I saw that I had to watch "Yankee Doodle Dandy." The song itself has always made me cringe. I really loved this movie though, so much in fact, that I found myself humming along to the song that I once so despised (and by humming along, I may mean singing loudly.) I think this is the most patriotic movie I have ever seen and will probably watch it every Fourth of July for the rest of my life. OK, maybe 5th of July, I am usually a little preoccupied with drinking and eating on the 4th to find time for movies. (#98 on AFI list)

SPOILER ALERT
"Over There" WILL make it on to my list of my 1000 favorite songs of all time. It will probably be somewhere in the 900's, but with me that is still really good.
"Grand Old Flag" is pretty good too. But may just miss the countdown. However, it certainly will make my list of my Top 50 Patriotic Songs of all time. Keep your eyes peeled for that list coming late June of 2011!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-z98aBCe8E    I get the chills every time I watch this. Of course, this is only the second time I have ever watched this, but you get my point.


47. North by Northwest (1959) - Has Cary Grant ever done anything that is not perfect. This guy is the man. He can even outrun airplanes that are shooting at him while running in corn fields. I would have liked to meet the pilot of the plane that was trying to kill him. How bad of a shot can you have? If you have never seen this film then shame on you, but I went out of my way to find a picture of the scene in which I was referring. See below.


I know Cary Grant is fast and all, but really? You couldn't at least shoot his leg or something?
Anyway, I love Alfred Hitchcock, I love Cary Grant, I love Eva Marie Saint, and I love the awful airplane pilot that not only could not keep the plane straight, but who has worse aim than Helen Keller.
(#55 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g458w2X9uHc    The famous airplane scene.


46. Swing Time (1936) - Fred Astaire and Ginger Roger's best performances of their careers. "Swing Time" was another film that I really had no desire to watch and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I did have a little problem with Fred Astaire's dancing though. I feel as though he mimics Derek Hough from Dancing with the Stars a little too much. I wish Astaire would be a little more original with his moves and try and break away from the style that Derek Hough has made so recognizable. (#90 on AFI List)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qx6X6shD9o   Hough and Scherzinger in "Dancing with the Stars"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxPgplMujzQ   Astaire and Rogers in "Swing Time"

Astaire should be ashamed of himself. Come on. Be original.


45. Platoon (1986) - Charlie Sheen was so jealous of his dad's success in "Apocalypse Now" that he insisted to star in his own movie about the war in Vietnam. That is a true fact.
I give "Platoon" a little edge on "Apocalypse Now" because it is nowhere near as weird as "Apocalypse Now" and there is a little more action. Of course Charlie Sheen also starred in the war epic "Hot Shots." And who didn't want to enlist in the navy after watching "Hot Shots Part Deux?" (#86 on AFI list)

Does anyone remember how many Academy Awards "Part Deux" won. I believe it was somewhere in the 7-9 range.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPi8EQzJ2Bg  


44. Midnight Cowboy (1969) - I love the relationship between Jon Voight and Dustin Hoffman's characters in this film. They were enemies then best friends. They hated each other, then loved each other. This was the first movie in history rated "X" to win the Best Picture Award. It is now rated "R" because they took out a scene and re-rated it. It is hilarious to think that this movie was rated "X." I don't get why. I thought the sixties were cool, but giving this film a rated "X" rating makes me think the sixties were a little lame. It would be like rating a documentary on Woodstock "X."
Anyway, I seem to love characters in movies that are disabled or ill. I love Dustin Hoffman's character "Ratso." But I get so mad when Voight's character keeps calling him "Ratso" even when he is near death. All the poor guy wanted was to not be called "Ratso." It made me so mad. Also, how creeped out would you be if a guy died in the back of the bus you were riding in and the bus driver just kept driving until you reached your final destination. I'd be like, "Get me off this bus, there is a dead guy right behind me." I never understood why nobody else was bothered by it. (#43 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S24yQQMuCLk     Final scene (with the dead guy on the bus.) It is a bit of a spoiler so do not watch if you are planning on watching the film any time soon.


43. Double Indemnity (1944) - This is the first line of the movie:
"I killed him for money - and for a woman. I didn't get the money. And I didn't get the woman." Talk about a spoiler alert. Hello! Thanks for giving away the ending jerk.
Even though we know the ending at the very beginning of the film, it is still a really great movie. Double indemnity is a real thing; it is a clause or provision in a life insurance or accident policy whereby the company agrees to pay the stated double face of the amount in the contract in cases of accidental death.
HOW GREAT IS THAT!?!
If that doesn't make you want to go out and kill your spouse, but make it look like an accident, I don't know what will.*
* The owner, creator, writer, genius, behind ryanscountdowns.blogspot.com is not responsible for any "accidental deaths" / murders that take place as a result of learning about double indemnity.
(#29 on AFI list)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3wjJcuGsVE    I really do wonder how many murders have taken place as a result of this brilliant flick.


42. The Apartment (1960) - A young Jack Lemmon stars in this classic movie about a bachelor who lives in an apartment on his own. He does, however, lend his apartment to his superiors at work in return for raving reviews and promotions. The superiors are not simply using his apartment to take a little cat nap after a long days work. They are using it for their affairs. Lemmon quickly finds himself in way over his head, just as he is falling in love with his apartments elevator girl (Shirley MacLaine.) He quickly realizes that not only is MacLaine one of the girls using his apartment with a male suitor, she is using it with his BOSS! What are the odds of THAT?
The movie is funny, but it also reminds us that we do not need to pay for hotel rooms to have an extra-marital affair, we can use a trusty co-workers house! (#80 on AFI list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRta_ko0XGU   I want a remake of this film. The superiors at work could be played by Tiger Woods, Brett Farve, and Jesse James.


41. The Sixth Sense (1999) - I believe this is the newest movie to make the list. I, too, was surprised when I first saw "The Sixth Sense" on the list, but after thinking about the film, I realized it does deserve a spot on the coveted countdown.
WHY was I so shocked when I found out that he was dead? Shocked! The movies OPENS with him getting shot. What is wrong with all of us that did not catch on to what was happening. How quickly we all forgot about "Ghost."
This is one of the only movies that is better the second time you watch it. It is like watching a totally different movie knowing that he is dead the entire time. The movie is pure genius, and I do not care if any of you are mad at me for ranking it this high. It is a great movie and just because it stars Haley Joel Osment does not mean it can't be good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZi3BmrUVrc   He dies in the OPENING scene after getting shot by  New Kids on the Block's  Donnie Wahlberg. What a way to go.