Classic films overlooked by students

On one of the rare occasions that I logged in to Facebook and perused its contents… OK, who am I kidding? The other day, I logged in for, like, the fifth time and saw an interesting list. It seems that College Living and Spotlight Editor Ariel Cheung neglected to see a large number of movies and has created a list to help her catch up.

Last I checked, the list spans 83 films and has quite a few big names. So far, only “Pulp Fiction” is checked off. Still standing are such movies as: “The Matrix,” “Clerks” (1 and 2 and “The Boondock Saints.”

In other words, her list would shock many people at some point or another. Of course, I doubt many people saw all of the movies she listed, but I could all but guarantee that everyone has seen at least a few. The movies on her list are the classics – the movies you have to see. Or, I don’t know, you’re labeled as a dork I guess.

But Ariel’s list got me thinking. I consider myself sort of a movie buff, at least in my favorite genres. But I went through her list and saw movies that I hadn’t seen either. With that in mind, here is my list of movies people have to see, followed by the list of movies that’ll drop some jaws. Because, and this is something we can all agree on, we all freaking love lists!

The first movie everyone has to see is “The Matrix.” You can skip the sequels if you want, but if you want to see the origin of most action movies, this is it. I remember when I first saw this film. I instantly fell in love with the stunning effects, cyberpunk feel and general badassery of the characters. And while it may be trite now, but back then, “bullet time” blew everyone’s minds.

Next would have to be “The Departed.” Scorsese’s epic battle between two cops is so damn suspenseful; you actually sympathize with DiCaprio when he starts popping some pills. The writing is great, the ending is fantastic and it has Jack Nicholson being his usual, crazy, self. Front to back, an entertaining film.

Finally, everyone has to see “Watchmen.” I don’t care if you’re a comic nerd or not. If you allow yourself to really enter the world and work to pick up some of the smaller themes, it will definitely pay off. I know many people who read the comic after seeing the movie; that’s an accomplishment for any movie these days.

And now for the movies I haven’t seen. Be prepared, I don’t want anyone’s spit all over the paper.

The first is “The Godfather.” To my credit, the kid who lived above me decided to start screaming when I tried to watch, and didn’t stop until I turned off the disk, but whatever. I haven’t gone back and tried again.

For shame…

The second would have to be “American Beauty.” I think I’ve been told the plot and every twist in the movie, but I should still see it. Every time I hear of the film, I am told of its snappy writing and impeccable style. Sounds right up my alley.

And finally, “A Clockwork Orange.” I’m a big fan of messed up movies and this one generally tops that list. I think this may be a movie to watch during the day, with some lights on. It’ll be one hell of a ride.

So readers, do your friends a favor. If they haven’t seen a movie that’s in your library, lend them a copy. I’ll be constructing a care package for Miss Cheung myself. Or even better, have a movie night. Share these great films together.

Because no one should have to live their life without knowing what “I love lamp” is referencing.