Every once in a while, one film emerges that is weird enough to garner attention but not inviting enough to make everyone go and see it. 9 is that type of film. This is definitely a bit of an acquired taste. I believe a lot of people looked at this movie and thought: "Okay, I'm cool with the post-apocalyptic atmosphere, but why the heck is it animated?" Animated films intended for adults is still a concept that people are slowly warming up to. But for me, I felt this film was well-written, original, and brilliantly animated. The protrayal of innocence in a hostile world is definitely taken to a new level in this grim but intriguing story.
77. Les Misèrables
People really seem to be divided on this film. On one hand, it's got a great acting and vocal performances (for the most part), but on the other hand, it's loooong. The length of the film definitely made it lag in some spots. However, there are plenty of other things to love about this movie. The costumes, the sets, the cinematography, the sound, and overall the sheer magnitude of it. This might be the one movie that has people convinced that movie musicals can actually work from time to time.
76. Shrek 2
In a cinematic world where sequels, prequels, and reboots are running rampant, rarely do sequels for animated films actually work. Luckily, this film proved that a sequel can actually be as good if not better than the first film. Dreamworks really hit the jackpot on this one. The cast is outstanding, the animation is wonderful, and the story is complex enough to be deep yet dynamic enough to stay interesting. Even years later, this movie does not fail to earn many laughs.
75. Beauty And The Beast
If I had to make a list of all the times Disney did a movie completely perfect, this would definitely be on the list. I don't believe that anyone with common sense could hate this film. The animation is mind-blowing, and the cinematography is nearly flawless. Plus, the characters all well-rounded, right down to the villains. It is no wonder that when someone hears the word "Disney", this is automatically one of the first things that comes to mind.
74. The Emperor's New Groove
I know what you're thinking: "How dare you put this film above Beauty and the Beast!" First off, deal with it. Second, let me explain why. While Beauty and the Beast is a classic Disney film, this was one of the first movies that started to present Disney movies from a different angle. The humor was a bit sillier, and more contemporary. Yes, that may make the movie seem dated, but it has also led to it being completely quotable. The best thing about this film, of course, are the villains, Yzma and Kronk, and they really steal the show in this unexpected film experience.
73. Scream
With all of the sadistic films that Wes Craven has produced, it was nice to see him actually take a chance to poke fun at his established genre. Though to be fair, it is sometimes difficult to tell whether Craven is making a satire film or a legitimate horror film. Either way, it is an absolute blast to watch, combining blood and terror with hilariously ironic moments.
72. The Way, Way, Back
Another wonderful hidden gem that basically no one saw. Charming and full of heart, this movie is a great example of how the simplest story can make the biggest impact. It was refreshing to see a cinematic work that did not try to win over everyone, but rather let you take everything in at your own pace. It's pleasantly fun to watch and makes for a great summer movie.
71. Spiderman 2
I grew up with the Sam Raimi trilogy, and out of all those movies, this one is definitely my favorite. What I like the most about this particular Spiderman is that, to me, it was really the only film out of the trilogy that managed to balance Peter's character development with the action sequences. When I watch this movie, I can relate to the characters a little more compared to Spiderman, yet not to the point of feeling smothered by them, such as with Spiderman 3. Whether this is my all-time favorite superhero flick is debatable, but it is definitely one for the books.
70. Kung-Fu Panda
This is a movie I feel took everyone by surprise. I mean, just from looking at the title alone, you feel that the film is going to be stupid as hell. But boy, was everyone wrong! Not only is this movie downright hilarious, but the animation is simply spectacular. As one of Dreamwork's absolute best, this movie still remains as quotable as The Emperor's New Groove.
69. Taken
An intense action movie where Liam Neeson kicks serious ass? Count me in! But seriously, though, there is a lot more to this film than the action sequences. The focus on the daughter being kidnapped was an unexpected angle to come from, and it's relatable to the point where it frightens everyone. The acting is pretty well done, and the entire tone of the film really helps to pace it very well.
68. Panic Room
Let me just say this: the camera angles make this film. The way the shots pan so flawlessly, it really pulls you into the story and makes you feel the same level of uncertainty that the main characters experience. Plus, Jodie Foster and Kristen Stewart had great chemistry in this film, which played out very well on screen and truly benefited the story.
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