Casino Royale (2006) - Casino Royale (2006) - User Reviews ...

Link to my original post
And we’re off! My journey has finally begun on my quest to watch all of the Bond movies in a year. So we’re rolling back the clock almost 60 years back to 1962 to watch the first iteration of Bond in the very first film. Dr No is a film that I have seen before, possibly ten or so years ago. So my memory of it was hazy at best. Going into it I had a vague memory of a couple of key scenes but couldn’t actually remember any of the plot, which was actually quite exciting. I knew the villain but didn’t know his motives or plan which meant it felt almost like the first time I was seeing it.
So let’s get into it, here are my ratings and thoughts of each category.

• Story - 5/10 - The overall story for this film was quite a nice idea. Bond is sent to Jamaica to investigate the disappearance of John Strangways, the local MI6 Station Chief. While there he discovers a plot by Dr No, who is a high ranking member of SPECTRE, to disrupt an American space launch using a radio beam weapon. How very Bond. This plot does a few nice things. It gives us a simple whodunnit style story that we can get to know Bond through and also sets up SPECTRE for the later films in the series, showing that they are a powerful force to be taken note of. However, a couple of things about this film just didn’t feel right. For me the film was a bit too much investigating and not enough action. This made the overall tone of the film feel a lot different to what I’m used to in a bond film (obviously at the time that wouldn’t have been the case as it was the first one, that’s more of a personal taste thing). Also I felt as if the ending was a bit of a damp squib. We’d spent all of the film building up to Dr No and purposely not being show him (which was great) only for his grand reveal to be somewhat tame (maybe even lacklustre?) and short. However this film managed the successfully lay the foundations and formula that could be built on over the many editions that follow.
• Gadgets - 2/10 - Well, there's not really much to say in this category because there wasn't any! We see the first introduction of Bonds Walther PPK and there's a Geiger counter at one point so I guess I can give a couple of points but really can't go any higher than that. Sorry 007, have you ever heard of a man called Q?
• Cars - 2/10 - Again, the same for this category. I feel bad for giving such low scores! I know this film had some budget issues which could go some way to explaining the lack of fancy cars and gadgets. Another reason is that they simply weren't prominent features of Bond movies yet and would come in later. However, I feel like I can justify a couple of points because there were a couple of nice vintage cars and a hearse which will always get a point. Other than that, nothing really to note.
• Villain - 6/10 - Dr No is an interesting fellow. A Chinese-German scientist who was formerly the treasurer to the powerful Tongs, where he stole $10million in gold bullion and "escaped" to America only to became a high ranking member in SPECTRE and relocated to Jamaica. Did I miss anything? Oh yeah, and he has BIONIC HANDS! Such a cool character, with a rich and interesting back story. The only issue with him, he was just a bit...meh. For three quarters of the film he was purposely kept off screen to keep his mystique and make meeting him that much more special. And while the dinner scene when we do eventually meet him was good, it didn't blow me away. He was just a bit bland. I didn't feel scared of intimidated by him. I didn't feel like he would be a threat. He was just some rich scientist. He had so much wonderful backstory to make him an interesting and complex character but he just wasn't. He will still go down as a classic bond Villain but I feel like that's more to do with him being the first than anything else.
• Henchmen - 3/10 - Not really much to speak of here either. Professor Dent took the role of main henchman and while he seemed like a nice enough chap he was overall a bit useless and was soon dispatched by Bond.
• Secret Lair - 8/10 - Now this is what I'm talking about. Secret underwater mountain base with a weird hotel/prison service attached. Yes please! Everything about this place looked luxurious and expensive, from the bedroom/cells to the marble floor. Also a nice little Easter egg was the Portrait of the Duke of Wellington which was actually missing at the time of filming. Of course it was Dr No that stole it all along! Extravagant, eccentric and overall excellent. Also, as a side note, I feel as though Dr No should shop around more for his fish tanks. He paid $1million for that thing which is literally 10% of his entire wealth. What a nutter.
• Fight Scenes - 2/10 - This is so frustrating! I wanted so much more from the fight scenes! James Bond is all about long and thought out fight scenes. And I know this will come in time but it was still frustrating. They were all just too short, too easy for Bond to win. You could argue that the earlier fights were easier for Bond because he's and elite agent and trained as such. I can forgive that slightly. But the final fight. Dr No might as well have just jumped into that pool reactor for all the fight he put up.
• Bond Girls - 5/10 - We were treated in this film to two iconic Bond Girls. Firstly, Sylvia Trench, who while mostly irrelevant in this film and just used to show the audience Bonds charm and way with women, will also feature (I am lead to believe) in the next film. She does get a couple of points though, for being a feisty character that I am excited to see more of and for leading Sean Connery into delivering the now famous, "Bond, James Bond" line. We were also given Honey Ryder in this film (who in my opinion is the original Bond Girl). She was lovely and had a good reason to want to see the demise of Dr No, however, she didn't really effect the plot in any meaningful was and was mostly around to be Bonds eye candy.
• Iconic Moments - 7/10 - There were quite a few good moments littered throughout this film. We've already spoken about the "Bond, James Bond" line so I won't go on about it too much. There was also the first time we meet Honey Ryder with her coming out of the ocean that has lived on and been referenced in other Bond films (namely Daniel Craig doing the male equivalent in Casino Royale). Also I feel as though the dinner with Dr No fits into this category as it is the first time the we see Bond interact with SPECTRE, which is one of the main subplots throughout these early films.
• Bonus - 5/10 - I feel as though this movie deserves a few bonus points. Although it is pretty basic and stripped back compared to what we have come to expect from Bond films it is a good enjoyable film that I enjoyed watching and it does a good job setting up the franchise and the SPECTRE storyline which is present throughout. It also gets a couple of bonus points for the introduction Felix Leiter, who features in a handful of Bond films over the years. I also have to give some bonus points for the iconic soundtrack, which has become a staple of Bond movies.

Overall this film was enjoyable. It did feel like a slightly stripped back version of Bond but you can definitely still identify it as a very Bond film. You can also see how this movie was so popular when it first came out. Bond is a cool, suave ladies man that goes to exotic locations and fights baddies. What's not to like? I think this film should be taken for what it is and that is the first building block in the franchise that everything after it grows bigger and more extravagant from. And although it might not have all of the features that we have come to expect from a Bond film, it still is an important movie in the franchises history.
Total - 45/100

I don't want to bore you all so please take a look at my thoughts on some pretty cool films! I watched ~91 movies this year and beginning January 1 I decided to keep a list and write a review if I felt inspired or didn't write one if I was too high or lazy. The list is a combination of movies that came out in 2020, movies I had never seen before, and some movies that needed a rewatch.
I am by no means a professional critic but only an incredibly passionate fan that likes to think I have a good eye! Comment if you agree, comment if you disagree, just comment so I have something new to think about some of the films.
As a quick note, this post is essentially a rip-off of a post done by u/BunyipPouch that can be referenced here: https://www.reddit.com/movies/comments/eh71gy/i_saw_192_movies_in_theaters_in_2019_here_is_my/ . I really like the way this person outlined their list so I'm pulling a Quentin Tarantino and stealing their idea! Without further ado:
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Arrival - 10/10 Confirmed my favorite movie of all time. Watching for what might be the 7th time made me realize the strength of a feeling that movies can give you. Having a favorite movie doesn’t mean it is the best movie, but the feeling you get when watching your favorite movie has you wanting to chase that feeling in every movie you see. Certain aspects are unexplainable but all I know is there is something about this movie that gets to me every time I watch it. Maybe it’s the decision she makes to live out the life she sees in front of her even though it leads to extreme heartbreak. Maybe it’s the daring concept of alien life in what is almost such a real depiction. Maybe it’s the idea that time really is a shiftable construct that we may have the power of utilizing. Whatever it is, it leads to extreme beauty and an indescribable feeling.
Parasite - 10
Spotlight - 9.4 A near perfect 10/10. This isn’t a typical movie that should be judged by the acting or camera work, but by the ability to progress and tell a sick and twisted story. The layers are peeled back with each scene, revealing a new horrific aspect about the size of the case, the attempt to cover it up, and the sickness of the individuals involved. The scope of the story can cause an emotional reaction at multiple points and makes you see the pain that the victims have gone through without leaning too much on showing this actual pain.
2001: A Space Odyssey - 9.4
1917 - 9.3
Gone With the Wind - 9.3
Waves - 9.2 There are so many interesting aspects of this film that make it unique and almost fantastic. Firstly, it is almost equally an experience of sound as it is of color and visual (hence ending on Alabama shakes’ Sound and Color). The soundtrack uses modern rap and R&B hits in an effective way and not in the way of trying to impress the audience with good music. Secondly, the emotional scenes are so genuine and the directing style is not aggressive so you can feel the emotion with the characters. The moment of Emily seeing her bf hug her dying father, causing her to walk away bursting into tears and trying to find the words to say to her parents over text, is beyond heartbreaking and done so well. The demise of her brother is depressing and felt exaggerated but goes to show that life can take crazy turns. Loved it.
Soul - 9.2 Such a beautiful film that I did not expect to move me the way it did. The film tackles incredibly deep and metaphysical questions with such ease that it makes the directing and everything about the movie feel even more genius. At times it struggles between being a movie for kids and trying to answer life's toughest questions, but overall tells a beautiful story of just living to live.
Sound of Metal - 9.2
The Lighthouse - 9.2 Oh my god. I don’t really know what to say but this movie made me feel things and that feeling is hard to find. I don’t want to rate it.
The Social Network - 9.2
Pain and Glory - 9.1
Dear Zachary - 9 Never cried more in a movie as this is what the heaviest loss looks like. The sheer passion and commitment that Kate and David have toward honoring their son and being good people is astounding and incomprehensible at times. I’ve never hated someone so much in my life before and felt so strongly about the need to live and do good. It is easy to be broken after something like this happens to you but the awe-inspiring love and devotion that these people have for this family is one of a kind. Please watch this if you need to cry.
The Tree of Life - 9
Ferris Beuller’s Day Off - 9
Midsommar - 9 I don’t even really know what I watched but I know it was genius.
Gladiator - 8.8
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring - 8.8
Steve Jobs - 8.7 Shot in 3 unique stories, this movie is able to give you the spirit of Steve Jobs without needing to explain historical information like many biopics would. Faasbender is spectacular and creates the essence of Steve Jobs perfectly as someone who is utterly devoted to better the human race no matter the cost it brings to those around him. The editing is impressive with so many quick cuts and blending the shots to feel like a singular story. You walk away impressed with the legacy jobs left behind, the heartbreak of him not being around to further the human race, and the harsh reality that he was not a flawless human.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - 8.7 This film is really in a category of its own, not because it’s the greatest movie ever made, but because of how unique each of the elements are. Fincher takes his signature style of directing and combines it with a Tree of Life storytelling narrative and a Steven Spielberg/James Cameron style of creating a classic feel good drama. Overall, it’s core is designed to make you accept life for what it is, even if this is particularly a positive spin on life and its consequences.
The Grand Budapest Hotel - 8.7
Frances Ha - 8.5 It is such a realistic depiction of struggling New Yorkers without the emotional breakdown. You never really see her lose her shit even when she seems to be going crazy. I hated in the moment the separation of Greta and her best friend because of the somewhat abrupt change in Sophie’s character, but they have a nice full circle reunion. The performances are fantastic and the film has a certain air to it as if Baumbach wants you to realize that what you are watching is not real life while trying to make it seem as real as possible. Definitely a unique film that has minor flaws but overall shows a meaningful journey of a New Yorker trying to find their way.
Almost Famous - 8.5
Bridge of Spies - 8.5 Steven Spielberg has centered his masterful directing skills into telling real life stories without the need for too much artistic involvement. Movies like Vox Lux and The Lighthouse capture you with artistic involvement, but Spielberg has learned how to capture you with immaculate storytelling of historical events. If you are ever interested in learning something new, Spielberg will not disappoint.
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King - 8.5
The Other Guys - 8.5
Drive - 8.5
Munich - 8.4 This is an action film that takes away the historical cliches of action films and adds a layer of raw truthfulness. Spielberg uses his gift to inform people of a momentous story that affected Israel and the Jewish people without adding any propraganda-like elements to make you pity them or be completely one sided. The story is horrifically true, and Spielberg does not hold back on any of the details. The acting is solid and provides an emotional look into the consequences that come with facing terrorists both for a nation and for an individual.
Ad Astra - 8.4
Okja - 8.4 So goddamn high please don't hurt the animals.
Wedding Crashers - 8.4 You sandbagging son of a bitch
Blade Runner - 8.3
Crash - 8.3 Incredibly powerful and socially relevant, this movie was necessary during these times to artfully show the systematic racism engrained in society. The acting performances are stellar, particularly Thandie Newton, and Haggis’ directing is perfect to convey the raw emotion in each scene.
Spirited Away - 8.3
Blade Runner 2049 - 8.3
Kill Bill Vol. 1 - 8.3
Enemy - 8.2 Such an interesting and gripping movie that didn’t seem to make a lot of sense but I imagine a second watching would provide more insight. Gyllenhal is truly something else and should be treasured. Villanueva is so good at creating his own world and creating such a uniquely shot film with moods and coloring.
Good Time - 8.2
Snowpiercer - 8.2
The Town - 8.2
5 to 7 - 8.1 Luckily I was in the mood for a rom com but this had its own unique air to it as of course there were cheesy parts, but they were not delivered in a cheesy way. Once over the fact that someone essentially like me could find themselves in this sort of relationship, I could actually begin to root for them and understand how something like this could work. There are some amazing lines that I should go back and write down for when I want to pursue someone, and the holistic narrative of the film is done very well. There is nothing special from a directing standpoint, but his simple approach at least allows the story to progress without any complications from a camera perspective.
Oceans 11 - 8.1 The heist movie of all heist movies. You show me a young Brad Pitt and George Clooney and I’m not sure there’s a way to fuck that up. There are obviously cliche moments and the impossibility of actually pulling this off is sometimes too ridiculous (they throw glow sticks into a hidden elevator shaft to a vault), but overall wonderful to watch.
Jojo Rabbit - 8.1
Philadelphia - 8 Led by the incredible acting of Hanks followed by the emotionally gripping plotline, Philadelphia is able to tell the story of not just one gay man’s plight with aids and the repercussions socially and physically, but of an entire minority’s struggle with acceptance. The directing is very understated in a way that pays off considering the story development should be at the forefront of the film. Incredibly heart-wrenching and is clearly an important film to giving a voice to gay Americans.
Uncut Gems - 8 The Safdie brothers have a particular way of filming/directing that creates an environment of entertaining stress that is able to grip your attention for the whole film. I love the connection between the opal gem and Howard as the movie begins and ends with that connection through his body. Sandler was absolutely snubbed and perfectly portrays what it’s like to be an addict and constantly on the run.
Molly's Game - 8
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - 8
Jaws - 8
Love Actually - 8
Cruel Intentions - 7.9 A glorified soft-core porn featuring a young Reese Witherspoon? Yea, you could say I liked it.
Knives Out - 7.8 An all star cast and provides enough mystery to keep the plot moving seamlessly. It’s a very interesting film for a murder mystery as they reveal what would typically be the biggest piece of info quite early in the movie, but there are more layers that need to be peeled back. The reveal is very clever and was not too outlandish, but I think they could’ve done more to make it even more shocking. Aside from that it’s a fun film and is worth the watch.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes - 7.8 In what was a surprisingly enjoyable movie, planet of the apes takes an Avatar approach and gets you to root against the humans. The montage of the ape growing up is done concisely but effectively and allows you to connect with him while remaining entertained. There are obviously some cheesy aspects and not a lot of character development outside of the ape, but I left feeling like I could watch a sequel.
Tenet - 7.8 I love Nolan but I struggled at times to keep up even with my eyes glued to the screen.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World - 7.8
Booksmart - 7.7 In what can be assumed to be an ode to the Superbad films of the late 2000s, Booksmart successfully keeps you entertained primarily driven by strong performances from Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein. They have a clear chemistry that is never doubted and play the perfect duo of extroverted smart high school kids that are finally ready to rebel. There are scenes that are a bit predictable and slightly lazy in writing in order to move the story along that I’m choosing to nitpick over (dever creating a “diversion”, using the pizza guy as the free get out of jail card), but once the little things are accepted the greater story can be appreciated. The movie has the particular feel of Superbad in which you know you’re going to see some outlandish things on the journey that will lead to laughs, but will ultimately lead in a coming of age lesson in a heartwarming way.
Out of Africa - 7.6 "You’ve ruined it for me, being alone."
10 Things I Hate About You - 7.5
Zodiac - 7.5
Frozen - 7.5
The Interview - 7.5
Casino Royale - 7.5
Skyfall - 7.5
The Talented Mr. Ripley - 7.4
Tron Legacy - 7.4
Palm Springs - 7.3
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm - 7.2 The hype was too much to overcome but Cohen really did a nice job of bringing back the classic and presenting Borat in a 2020 world. It’s genius filmmaking to have someone like Borat show America what America is really like as you can look in the eyes of a racist foreigner.
Don’t Worry He Won’t Get Far On Foot - 7
Quantum of Solace - 7
The Perks of Being a Wallflower - 6.9 The cheesiness makes it shocking that it was released as late as 2012 but overall its an interesting story clearly coming from a novel with strong themes.
Loopers - 6.9 I liked having seen Loopers, but it’s not a must see movie. The ending was creative and definitely saved my overall opinion of the movie.
Have a Good Trip - 6.9 Never forget the power of psychedelics and how these icons have had crazy trips. Carrie Fisher is your new favorite.
Coachella Documentary - 6.9
The Gentleman - 6.9
Jurassic Park - 6.9
About Time - 6.9
Spider-Man Far From Home - 6.8 Probably the worst of the new Spider-Man movies but still provides great visuals with interesting hero concepts. There is definitely a lull in the middle and there are some scenes that make you appreciate Marvel, but otherwise just another solid movie from marvel.
Oceans 13 - 6.7 While entertaining and still shows you Pitt and Clooney, there are definitely more annoying aspects and less intriguing storylines.
The Social Dilemma - 6.4 Obviously a very important topic that should have more documentaries like this one, but really overplayed some of the dangers in a dramatic/theatrical sense.
Ford Vs. Ferrari - 6.2 Not gonna lie, while the story itself is enthralling and a unique part of history, the “studio” feel of this movie took away from much of my enjoyment. I feel bad that Bale and Damon had to be in such a studio made film because they both put on great performances. Bale can do anything he wants and crush it. The way they vilify certain aspects is comical and the cliches are tough to get by, but there are some great action shots of the races and powerful scenes where bale is doing the heavy lifting.
Long Shot - 6.1 Definitely some funny and witty jokes, but overall it’s mediocre. I didn’t hate it and actually enjoyed many of the aspects, but no need to say much more.
Air Force One - 6 Patriotic in the most 90s way possible, with Harrison Ford as president, evil Russian bad guys with mustaches, and an essentially all white cast, Air Force One is a hidden American propaganda film. The movie was funnier than anticipated because of the classic Harrison Ford trope of constant survival and the dramatic set ups to make the wins look even more unbelievable. Either way, hard not to love Ford as the president of the USA and almost made me proud to be an American by the end.
Meet Joe Black - 6 With a 100% white cast and overall 90s feel to the movie, it’s hard to rate this movie “fairly” as if it had just come out in 1998. But I like the idea similarly to Tree of Life in terms of looking over your life and making sure you have lived it completely without any regrets. However, acting is mediocre and I didn’t realize how much I hate the typical 90’s businessman in movies.
Andre the Giant - 5.8
Fury - 5.5 This was definitely a disappointing letdown. Expectations were definitely high going in but the horrible special effects and mediocre acting made this tough to be invested by the end.
Armageddon - 5
Back to School - 5
Cougar Hunting - 4.9

In 2015, I created a list titled, “Top10ner’s 1001 'Greatest' Movies of All Time” and many of you seemed to enjoy it and still use it today so I thought it was about time that I updated it..
The original 2015 thread can be found here as well as the initial update for those curious about the algorithm.
Basically I started off by gathering ratings from IMDB (UseCritic Average), Rotten Tomatoes (Tomatometer, Critic Average) & (Audience Score, User Average), Metacritic (Critic Average, User Average) and Letterboxd (User Average). Each site’s average rating was then weighted so that no site’s ratings were favoured above the rest. The next step was to make sure that each film was treated equally. Rather than eliminating films that had little votes, I opted to alter these films score by carefully deducting points depending on how many people have seen it, and therefore voted on it.
I then finally put the list through a final adjustment, where I applied aspects such as critical reception (# of official lists movie is in), audience reception and overall likability/popularity. These figures were determined using sources such as iCheckmovies, Letterboxd and TSPDT?.
I've created the following lists for both Letterboxd and iCheckMovies, as well as a Google spreadsheet where you can check out the full list and search for particular films easier.
Letterboxd - 2020 Edition: Top10ner’s 1001 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time
IMDb - 2020 Edition: Top10ner’s 1001 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time
iCheckMovies - 2020 Edition: Top10ner’s 1001 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time
Google Spreadsheet - 2020 Edition: Top10ner’s 1001 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time
ANYWAY, here is the 1001 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time. Enjoy! (NOTE: Could only include the first 750 movies due character limit)

RANK	TITLE	YEAR	DIRECTOR
1	The Godfather	1972	Francis Ford Coppola
2	The Godfather: Part II	1974	Francis Ford Coppola
3	Seven Samurai	1954	Akira Kurosawa
4	Pulp Fiction	1994	Quentin Tarantino
5	12 Angry Men	1957	Sidney Lumet
6	Spirited Away	2001	Hayao Miyazaki
7	Schindler's List	1993	Steven Spielberg
8	Casablanca	1942	Michael Curtiz
9	Psycho	1960	Alfred Hitchcock
10	Goodfellas	1990	Martin Scorsese
11	Lawrence of Arabia	1962	David Lean
12	The Good, the Bad and the Ugly	1966	Sergio Leone
13	Singin' in the Rain	1952	Stanley Donen & Gene Kelly
14	City Lights	1931	Charlie Chaplin
15	Sunset Boulevard	1950	Billy Wilder
16	Apocalypse Now	1979	Francis Ford Coppola
17	The Shawshank Redemption	1994	Frank Darabont
18	Rear Window	1954	Alfred Hitchcock
19	Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back	1980	Irvin Kershner
20	2001: A Space Odyssey	1968	Stanley Kubrick
21	Citizen Kane	1941	Orson Welles
22	M	1931	Fritz Lang
23	One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest	1975	Miloš Forman
24	Vertigo	1958	Alfred Hitchcock
25	The Dark Knight	2008	Christopher Nolan
26	The Silence of the Lambs	1991	Jonathan Demme
27	Modern Times	1936	Charles Chaplin
28	Star Wars - A New Hope	1977	George Lucas
29	Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb	1964	Stanley Kubrick
30	Come and See	1985	Elem Klimov
31	Bicycle Thieves	1948	Vittorio De Sica
32	Tokyo Story	1953	Yasujirō Ozu
33	It's a Wonderful Life	1946	Frank Capra
34	Rashomon	1950	Akira Kurosawa
35	Once Upon a Time in the West	1968	Sergio Leone
36	Taxi Driver	1976	Martin Scorsese
37	Ikiru	1952	Akira Kurosawa
38	Metropolis	1927	Fritz Lang
39	The Passion of Joan of Arc	1928	Carl Theodor Dreyer
40	Alien	1979	Ridley Scott
41	The Third Man	1949	Carol Reed
42	All About Eve	1950	Joseph L. Mankiewicz
43	Fanny and Alexander	1982	Ingmar Bergman
44	Chinatown	1974	Roman Polanski
45	City of God	2002	Fernando Meirelles & Kátia Lund
46	Double Indemnity	1944	Billy Wilder
47	Paths of Glory	1957	Stanley Kubrick
48	Raiders of the Lost Ark	1981	Steven Spielberg
49	Andrei Rublev	1966	Andrei Tarkovsky
50	The Apartment	1960	Billy Wilder
51	Harakiri	1962	Masaki Kobayashi
52	Parasite	2019	Bong Joon-ho
53	The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring	2001	Peter Jackson
54	The 400 Blows	1959	François Truffaut
55	Stalker	1979	Andrei Tarkovsky
56	Some Like It Hot	1959	Billy Wilder
57	Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans	1927	F.W. Murnau
58	Pan's Labyrinth	2006	Guillermo del Toro
59	Ran	1985	Akira Kurosawa
60	Sherlock, Jr.	1924	Buster Keaton
61	The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King	2003	Peter Jackson
62	The Night of the Hunter	1955	Charles Laughton
63	A Separation	2011	Asghar Farhadi
64	Grave of the Fireflies	1988	Isao Takahata
65	North by Northwest	1959	Alfred Hitchcock
66	Persona	1966	Ingmar Bergman
67	Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind	2004	Michel Gondry
68	Back to the Future	1985	Robert Zemeckis
69	The Battle of Algiers	1966	Gillo Pontecorvo
70	Toy Story	1995	John Lasseter
71	Raging Bull	1980	Martin Scorsese
72	8½ (Eight and a Half)	1963	Federico Fellini
73	Saving Private Ryan	1998	Steven Spielberg
74	On the Waterfront	1954	Elia Kazan
75	The Shining	1980	Stanley Kubrick
76	Three Colors: Red	1994	Krzysztof Kieślowski
77	The Great Dictator	1940	Charles Chaplin
78	The Wizard of Oz	1939	Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn…
79	The Wages of Fear	1953	Henri-Georges Clouzot
80	In the Mood for Love	2000	Wong Kar-wai
81	Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse	2018	Rodney Rothman, Peter Ramsey…
82	The Treasure of the Sierra Madre	1948	John Huston
83	The Seventh Seal	1957	Ingmar Bergman
84	The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers	2002	Peter Jackson
85	The Red Shoes	1948	Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger
86	The General	1926	Clyde Bruckman & Buster Keaton
87	The Gold Rush	1925	Charles Chaplin
88	Touch of Evil	1958	Orson Welles
89	WALL-E	2008	Andrew Stanton
90	Aliens	1986	James Cameron
91	Wild Strawberries	1957	Ingmar Bergman
92	Paris Texas	1984	Wim Wenders
93	A Clockwork Orange	1971	Stanley Kubrick
94	La Grande Illusion	1937	Jean Renoir
95	There Will Be Blood	2007	Paul Thomas Anderson
96	Amadeus	1984	Miloš Forman
97	Annie Hall	1977	Woody Allen
98	Whiplash	2014	Damien Chazelle
99	Pather Panchali	1955	Satyajit Ray
100	Cinema Paradiso	1988	Giuseppe Tornatore
101	It Happened One Night	1934	Frank Capra
102	The Bridge on the River Kwai	1957	David Lean
103	The Lives of Others	2006	Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck
104	Terminator 2: Judgment Day	1991	James Cameron
105	Blade Runner	1982	Ridley Scott
106	Yojimbo	1961	Akira Kurosawa
107	Ugetsu	1953	Kenji Mizoguchi
108	Reservoir Dogs	1992	Quentin Tarantino
109	Memento	2000	Christopher Nolan
110	Princess Mononoke	1997	Hayao Miyazaki
111	Mad Max: Fury Road	2015	George Miller
112	The Pianist	2002	Roman Polanski
113	Wings of Desire	1987	Wim Wenders
114	The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari	1920	Robert Wiene
115	The Best Years of Our Lives	1946	William Wyler
116	Inception	2010	Christopher Nolan
117	Monty Python and the Holy Grail	1975	Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones
118	Fargo	1996	Joel & Ethan Coen
119	La Dolce Vita	1960	Federico Fellini
120	Oldboy	2003	Chan-wook Park
121	Nights of Cabiria	1957	Federico Fellini
122	Toy Story 3	2010	Lee Unkrich
123	Children of Paradise	1945	Marcel Carné
124	Gone with the Wind	1939	Victor Fleming,George Cukor...
125	Jaws	1975	Steven Spielberg
126	Das Boot	1981	Wolfgang Petersen
127	High and Low	1963	Akira Kurosawa
128	The Mirror	1975	Andrei Tarkovsky
129	L.A. Confidential	1997	Curtis Hanson
130	Unforgiven	1992	Clint Eastwood
131	Amelie	2001	Jean-Pierre Jeunet
132	My Neighbor Totoro	1988	Hayao Miyazaki
133	Barry Lyndon	1975	Stanley Kubrick
134	Le Samouraï	1967	Jean-Pierre Melville
135	Ordet	1955	Carl Theodor Dreyer
136	To Be or Not to Be	1942	Ernst Lubitsch
137	No Country for Old Men	2007	Joel & Ethan Coen
138	Solaris	1972	Andrei Tarkovsky
139	Coco	2017	Lee Unkrich
140	Your Name.	2016	Makoto Shinkai
141	Fight Club	1999	David Fincher
142	The Maltese Falcon	1941	John Huston
143	The Kid	1921	Charles Chaplin
144	Woman in the Dunes	1964	Hiroshi Teshigahara
145	Se7en	1995	David Fincher
146	Do the Right Thing	1989	Spike Lee
147	The Rules of the Game	1939	Jean Renoir
148	Aguirre: The Wrath of God	1972	Werner Herzog
149	The Grapes of Wrath	1940	John Ford
150	La Haine	1995	Mathieu Kassovitz
151	Once Upon a Time in America	1984	Sergio Leone
152	Throne of Blood	1957	Akira Kurosawa
153	Notorious	1946	Alfred Hitchcock
154	Badlands	1973	Terrence Malick
155	A Man Escaped	1956	Robert Bresson
156	Cool Hand Luke	1967	Stuart Rosenberg
157	Rosemary's Baby	1968	Roman Polanski
158	Before Sunrise	1995	Richard Linklater
159	The Lion King	1994	Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff
160	Before Sunset	2004	Richard Linklater
161	Rebecca	1940	Alfred Hitchcock
162	La strada	1954	Federico Fellini
163	Duck Soup	1933	Leo McCarey
164	The Deer Hunter	1978	Michael Cimino
165	Sansho the Bailiff	1954	Kenji Mizoguchi
166	The Philadelphia Story	1940	George Cukor
167	The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance	1962	John Ford
168	Die Hard	1988	John McTiernan
169	Brazil	1985	Terry Gilliam
170	Sweet Smell of Success	1957	Alexander Mackendrick
171	The Departed	2006	Martin Scorsese
172	Three Colors: Blue	1993	Krzysztof Kieślowski
173	The Last Picture Show	1971	Peter Bogdanovich
174	Rome, Open City	1945	Roberto Rossellini
175	Up	2009	Pete Docter & Bob Peterson
176	The Princess Bride	1987	Rob Reiner
177	Breathless	1960	Jean-Luc Godard
178	Dog Day Afternoon	1975	Sidney Lumet
179	Kind Hearts and Coronets	1949	Robert Hamer
180	To Kill a Mockingbird	1962	Robert Mulligan
181	Chungking Express	1994	Wong Kar-wai
182	The Conversation	1974	Francis Ford Coppola
183	Rio Bravo	1959	Howard Hawks
184	Full Metal Jacket	1987	Stanley Kubrick
185	The Handmaiden	2016	Chan-wook Park
186	A Matter of Life and Death	1946	Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger
187	A Woman Under the Influence	1974	John Cassavetes
188	All the President's Men	1976	Alan J. Pakula
189	Portrait of a Lady on Fire	2019	Céline Sciamma
190	The Matrix	1999	Lilly & Lana Wachowski
191	12 Years a Slave	2013	Steve McQueen
192	Brief Encounter	1945	David Lean
193	Shoplifters	2018	Hirokazu Kore-eda
194	American Beauty	1999	Sam Mendes
195	His Girl Friday	1940	Howard Hawks
196	The Usual Suspects	1995	Bryan Singer
197	The Graduate	1967	Mike Nichols
198	Jurassic Park	1993	Steven Spielberg
199	Memories of Murder	2003	Bong Joon-ho
200	King Kong	1933	Merian C. Cooper & Ernest B. Schoedsack
201	Inside Out	2015	Pete Docter
202	Yi yi	2000	Edward Yang
203	Raise the Red Lantern	1991	Zhang Yimou
204	Rififi	1955	Jules Dassin
205	Blue Velvet	1986	David Lynch
206	Army of Shadows	1969	Jean-Pierre Melville
207	This Is Spinal Tap	1984	Rob Reiner
208	The Wild Bunch	1969	Sam Peckinpah
209	Witness for the Prosecution	1957	Billy Wilder
210	Battleship Potemkin	1925	Sergei M. Eisenstein
211	Strangers on a Train	1951	Alfred Hitchcock
212	The Searchers	1956	John Ford
213	The Big Lebowski	1998	Joel & Ethan Coen
214	Nosferatu	1922	F.W. Murnau
215	Network	1976	Sidney Lumet
216	The Hustler	1961	Robert Rossen
217	The Exterminating Angel	1962	Luis Buñuel
218	Days of Heaven	1978	Terrence Malick
219	Finding Nemo	2003	Andrew Stanton & Lee Unkrich
220	Heat	1995	Michael Mann
221	The Great Escape	1963	John Sturges
222	A Streetcar Named Desire	1951	Elia Kazan
223	Diabolique	1955	Henri-Georges Clouzot
224	The Sting	1973	George Roy Hill
225	Night of the Living Dead	1968	George A. Romero
226	The Thing	1982	John Carpenter
227	Mulholland Drive	2001	David Lynch
228	The Conformist	1970	Bernardo Bertolucci
229	The Grand Budapest Hotel	2014	Wes Anderson
230	A Brighter Summer Day	1991	Edward Yang
231	Monty Python's Life of Brian	1979	Terry Jones
232	Umberto D.	1952	Vittorio De Sica
233	Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?	1966	Mike Nichols
234	Stagecoach	1939	John Ford
235	Beauty and the Beast	1991	Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise
236	The Big Sleep	1946	Howard Hawks
237	Inglourious Basterds	2009	Quentin Tarantino
238	Viridiana	1961	Luis Buñuel
239	Incendies	2010	Denis Villeneuve
240	The Terminator	1984	James Cameron
241	Bride of Frankenstein	1935	James Whale
242	Sullivan's Travels	1941	Preston Sturges
243	Playtime	1967	Jacques Tati
244	Ivan's Childhood	1962	Andrei Tarkovsky
245	Life Is Beautiful	1997	Roberto Benigni
246	Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid	1969	George Roy Hill
247	Manhattan	1979	Woody Allen
248	Trainspotting	1996	Danny Boyle
249	All Quiet on the Western Front	1930	Lewis Milestone
250	The Young and the Damned	1950	Luis Buñuel
251	The Elephant Man	1980	David Lynch
252	All About My Mother	1999	Pedro Almodóvar
253	Le Trou	1960	Jacques Becker
254	The Leopard	1963	Luchino Visconti
255	Laura	1944	Otto Preminger
256	Shadow of a Doubt	1943	Alfred Hitchcock
257	Mr. Smith Goes to Washington	1939	Frank Capra
258	Hiroshima Mon Amour	1959	Alain Resnais
259	Bringing Up Baby	1938	Howard Hawks
260	Out of the Past	1947	Jacques Tourneur
261	Anatomy of a Murder	1959	Otto Preminger
262	Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon	2000	Ang Lee
263	L'avventura	1960	Michelangelo Antonioni
264	Beauty and the Beast	1946	Jean Cocteau
265	The Hunt	2012	Thomas Vinterberg
266	Forrest Gump	1994	Robert Zemeckis
267	Ace in the Hole	1951	Billy Wilder
268	Late Spring	1949	Yasujirō Ozu
269	The Celebration	1998	Thomas Vinterberg
270	Au Revoir Les Enfants	1987	Louis Malle
271	Spotlight	2015	Tom McCarthy
272	Roman Holiday	1953	William Wyler
273	Amour	2012	Michael Haneke
274	Ali: Fear Eats the Soul	1974	Rainer Werner Fassbinder
275	Paddington 2	2017	Paul King
276	The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp	1943	Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger
277	The French Connection	1971	William Friedkin
278	The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie	1972	Luis Buñuel
279	High Noon	1952	Fred Zinnemann
280	Akira	1988	Katsuhiro Otomo
281	4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days	2007	Cristian Mungiu
282	Ben-Hur	1959	William Wyler
283	Let the Right One In	2008	Tomas Alfredson
284	Nashville	1975	Robert Altman
285	Room	2015	Lenny Abrahamson
286	The Adventures of Robin Hood	1938	Michael Curtiz & William Keighley
287	Jules and Jim	1962	François Truffaut
288	Good Will Hunting	1997	Gus Van Sant
289	Young Frankenstein	1974	Mel Brooks
290	White Heat	1949	Raoul Walsh
291	Short Term 12	2013	Destin Cretton
292	The Killing	1956	Stanley Kubrick
293	In a Lonely Place	1950	Nicholas Ray
294	Frankenstein	1931	James Whale
295	Secrets & Lies	1996	Mike Leigh
296	Django Unchained	2012	Quentin Tarantino
297	Call Me by Your Name	2017	Luca Guadagnino
298	Magnolia	1999	Paul Thomas Anderson
299	Being There	1979	Hal Ashby
300	The Manchurian Candidate	1962	John Frankenheimer
301	Paper Moon	1973	Peter Bogdanovich
302	The Shop Around the Corner	1940	Ernst Lubitsch
303	Halloween	1978	John Carpenter
304	The World of Apu	1959	Satyajit Ray
305	Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring	2003	Kim Ki-duk
306	L'Atalante	1934	Jean Vigo
307	The Iron Giant	1999	Brad Bird
308	The Exorcist	1973	William Friedkin
309	Amores Perros	2000	Alejandro González Iñárritu
310	Central Station	1998	Walter Salles
311	Bonnie and Clyde	1967	Arthur Penn
312	Persepolis	2007	Vincent Paronnaud & Marjane Satrapi
313	The Best of Youth	2003	Marco Tullio Giordana
314	The Spirit of the Beehive	1973	Víctor Erice
315	Z	1969	Costa-Gavras
316	Underground	1995	Emir Kusturica
317	The Killer	1989	John Woo
318	Kes	1969	Ken Loach
319	Moonlight	2016	Barry Jenkins
320	Howl's Moving Castle	2004	Hayao Miyazaki
321	Her	2013	Spike Jonze
322	Requiem for a Dream	2000	Darren Aronofsky
323	The Truman Show	1998	Peter Weir
324	The Incredibles	2004	Brad Bird
325	Cries and Whispers	1972	Ingmar Bergman
326	Stand by Me	1986	Rob Reiner
327	Before Midnight	2013	Richard Linklater
328	Groundhog Day	1993	Harold Ramis
329	Little Women	2019	Greta Gerwig
330	The Social Network	2010	David Fincher
331	The Right Stuff	1983	Philip Kaufman
332	Get Out	2017	Jordan Peele
333	It's Such a Beautiful Day	2012	Don Hertzfeldt
334	Boogie Nights	1997	Paul Thomas Anderson
335	Fantasia	1940	Samuel Armstrong, James Algar...
336	Black Narcissus	1947	Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger
337	Midnight Cowboy	1969	John Schlesinger
338	Children of Men	2006	Alfonso Cuarón
339	E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial	1982	Steven Spielberg
340	Toy Story 2	1999	John Lasseter
341	Leon: The Professional	1994	Luc Besson
342	Cabaret	1972	Bob Fosse
343	The Diving Bell and the Butterfly	2007	Julian Schnabel
344	Ratatouille	2007	Brad Bird
345	The Cranes Are Flying	1957	Mikhail Kalatozov
346	Day for Night	1973	François Truffaut
347	Withnail & I	1987	Bruce Robinson
348	Safety Last!	1923	Fred C. Newmeyer & Sam Taylor
349	The Umbrellas of Cherbourg	1964	Jacques Demy
350	Shaun of the Dead	2004	Edgar Wright
351	Song of the Sea	2014	Tomm Moore
352	Scarface	1983	Brian De Palma
353	Harold and Maude	1971	Hal Ashby
354	Platoon	1986	Oliver Stone
355	The Nightmare Before Christmas	1993	Henry Selick
356	Close Encounters of the Third Kind	1977	Steven Spielberg
357	Talk to Her	2002	Pedro Almodóvar
358	Wild Tales	2014	Damián Szifrón
359	Close-Up	1990	Abbas Kiarostami
360	Time of the Gypsies	1988	Emir Kusturica
361	Mary and Max	2009	Adam Elliot
362	The Return	2003	Andrey Zvyagintsev
363	Logan	2017	James Mangold
364	For a Few Dollars More	1965	Sergio Leone
365	A Prophet	2009	Jacques Audiard
366	La La Land	2016	Damien Chazelle
367	The Sound of Music	1965	Robert Wise
368	The King of Comedy	1982	Martin Scorsese
369	The Big Heat	1953	Fritz Lang
370	In the Heat of the Night	1967	Norman Jewison
371	Amarcord	1973	Federico Fellini
372	A Night at the Opera	1935	Sam Wood
373	Repulsion	1965	Roman Polanski
374	Freaks	1932	Tod Browning
375	Au Hasard Balthazar	1966	Robert Bresson
376	Downfall	2004	Oliver Hirschbiegel
377	Lost in Translation	2003	Sofia Coppola
378	Belle de Jour	1967	Luis Buñuel
379	What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?	1962	Robert Aldrich
380	The Circus	1928	Charles Chaplin
381	How to Train Your Dragon	2010	Chris Sanders & Dean DeBlois
382	Crimes and Misdemeanors	1989	Woody Allen
383	Breaking the Waves	1996	Lars von Trier
384	Brokeback Mountain	2005	Ang Lee
385	Steamboat Bill, Jr.	1928	Buster Keaton & Charles Reisner
386	Werckmeister Harmonies	2000	Béla Tarr & Ágnes Hranitzky
387	Greed	1924	Erich von Stroheim
388	Roma	2018	Alfonso Cuarón
389	Make Way for Tomorrow	1937	Leo McCarey
390	The Lady Eve	1941	Preston Sturges
391	The Straight Story	1999	David Lynch
392	Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion	1997	Kazuya Tsurumaki & Hideaki Anno
393	Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade	1989	Steven Spielberg
394	Peeping Tom	1960	Michael Powell
395	The Secret in Their Eyes	2009	Juan José Campanella
396	Cleo from 5 to 7	1962	Agnès Varda
397	Aladdin	1992	Ron Clements & John Musker
398	Rocco and His Brothers	1960	Luchino Visconti
399	Hannah and Her Sisters	1986	Woody Allen
400	My Darling Clementine	1946	John Ford
401	Avengers: Endgame	2019	Joe & Anthony Russo
402	Infernal Affairs	2002	Alan Mak & Andrew Lau
403	Patton	1970	Franklin J. Schaffner
404	Mary Poppins	1964	Robert Stevenson
405	Monsters, Inc.	2001	Pete Docter
406	Hunt for the Wilderpeople	2016	Taika Waititi
407	Children of Heaven	1997	Majid Majidi
408	Last Year at Marienbad	1961	Alain Resnais
409	Sanjuro	1962	Akira Kurosawa
410	1917	2019	Sam Mendes
411	Avengers: Infinity War	2018	Joe & Anthony Russo
412	The Tale of the Princess Kaguya	2013	Isao Takahata
413	Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri	2017	Martin McDonagh
414	Through a Glass Darkly	1961	Ingmar Bergman
415	The Thin Man	1934	W.S. Van Dyke
416	American History X	1998	Tony Kaye
417	Knives Out	2019	Rian Johnson
418	Orpheus	1950	Jean Cocteau
419	Evil Dead II	1987	Sam Raimi
420	Airplane!	1980	Jim Abrahams, Jerry & David Zucker
421	Red River	1948	Howard Hawks & Arthur Rosson
422	Rope	1948	Alfred Hitchcock
423	Y tu mamá también	2001	Alfonso Cuarón
424	Million Dollar Baby	2004	Clint Eastwood
425	Pickpocket	1959	Robert Bresson
426	Being John Malkovich	1999	Spike Jonze
427	The Cameraman	1928	Buster Keaton & Edward Sedgwick
428	Satantango	1994	Béla Tarr
429	Hard Boiled	1992	John Woo
430	Naked	1993	Mike Leigh
431	The Double Life of Veronique	1991	Krzysztof Kieślowski
432	Arrival	2016	Denis Villeneuve
433	Rushmore	1998	Wes Anderson
434	Sing Street	2016	John Carney
435	Rebel Without a Cause	1955	Nicholas Ray
436	The Lady Vanishes	1938	Alfred Hitchcock
437	The Last Laugh	1924	F.W. Murnau
438	The Green Mile	1999	Frank Darabont
439	Vivre Sa Vie	1962	Jean-Luc Godard
440	Spartacus	1960	Stanley Kubrick
441	A Hard Day's Night	1964	Richard Lester
442	Autumn Sonata	1978	Ingmar Bergman
443	Ghostbusters	1984	Ivan Reitman
444	The Hidden Fortress	1958	Akira Kurosawa
445	Capernaum	2018	Nadine Labaki
446	Mommy	2014	Xavier Dolan
447	Le Cercle Rouge	1970	Jean-Pierre Melville
448	Down by Law	1986	Jim Jarmusch
449	Stalag 17	1953	Billy Wilder
450	Boyhood	2014	Richard Linklater
451	Trouble in Paradise	1932	Ernst Lubitsch
452	Judgment at Nuremberg	1961	Stanley Kramer
453	Casino	1995	Martin Scorsese
454	McCabe & Mrs. Miller	1971	Robert Altman
455	The Prestige	2006	Christopher Nolan
456	The Irishman	2019	Martin Scorsese
457	Blade Runner 2049	2017	Denis Villeneuve
458	Faust	1926	F.W. Murnau
459	Marriage Story	2019	Noah Baumbach
460	Fireworks	1997	Takeshi Kitano
461	Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi	1983	Richard Marquand
462	Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind	1984	Hayao Miyazaki
463	Goldfinger	1964	Guy Hamilton
464	Gangs of Wasseypur	2012	Anurag Kashyap
465	Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs	1937	David Hand
466	Invasion of the Body Snatchers	1956	Don Siegel
467	Top Hat	1935	Mark Sandrich
468	The King's Speech	2010	Tom Hooper
469	Farewell My Concubine	1993	Chen Kaige
470	The Breakfast Club	1985	John Hughes
471	Wolf Children	2012	Mamoru Hosoda
472	The Sixth Sense	1999	M. Night Shyamalan
473	Boyz n the Hood	1991	John Singleton
474	In the Name of the Father	1993	Jim Sheridan
475	Gladiator	2000	Ridley Scott
476	The Phantom Carriage	1921	Victor Sjöström
477	Dead Poets Society	1989	Peter Weir
478	What We Do in the Shadows	2014	Jemaine Clement & Taika Waititi
479	The Birds	1963	Alfred Hitchcock
480	Moonrise Kingdom	2012	Wes Anderson
481	A Fistful of Dollars	1964	Sergio Leone
482	Kill Bill: Vol. 1	2003	Quentin Tarantino
483	Manchester by the Sea	2016	Kenneth Lonergan
484	Who Framed Roger Rabbit	1988	Robert Zemeckis
485	Almost Famous	2000	Cameron Crowe
486	Lady Bird	2017	Greta Gerwig
487	To Have and Have Not	1944	Howard Hawks
488	Kiki's Delivery Service	1989	Hayao Miyazaki
489	Kill Bill: Vol. 2	2004	Quentin Tarantino
490	Eyes Without a Face	1960	Georges Franju
491	Blazing Saddles	1974	Mel Brooks
492	The Sacrifice	1986	Andrei Tarkovsky
493	The 39 Steps	1935	Alfred Hitchcock
494	Donnie Darko	2001	Richard Kelly
495	Gone Girl	2014	David Fincher
496	Eraserhead	1977	David Lynch
497	Hero	2002	Zhang Yimou
498	Ghost in the Shell	1995	Mamoru Oshii
499	Miller's Crossing	1990	Joel & Ethan Coen
500	Meet Me in St. Louis	1944	Vincente Minnelli
501	Great Expectations	1946	David Lean
502	Contempt	1963	Jean-Luc Godard
503	Scarface	1932	Howard Hawks
504	Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles	1975	Chantal Akerman
505	My Left Foot	1989	Jim Sheridan
506	The Long Goodbye	1973	Robert Altman
507	Zootopia	2016	Byron Howard
508	Catch Me If You Can	2002	Steven Spielberg
509	Fitzcarraldo	1982	Werner Herzog
510	West Side Story	1961	Jerome Robbins & Robert Wise
511	All That Jazz	1979	Bob Fosse
512	Castle in the Sky	1986	Hayao Miyazaki
513	Kagemusha	1980	Akira Kurosawa
514	The Wolf of Wall Street	2013	Martin Scorsese
515	My Fair Lady	1964	George Cukor
516	Dunkirk	2017	Christopher Nolan
517	Guardians of the Galaxy	2014	James Gunn
518	The Lost Weekend	1945	Billy Wilder
519	The Intouchables	2011	Eric Toledano & Olivier Nakache
520	Nightcrawler	2014	Dan Gilroy
521	Short Cuts	1993	Robert Altman
522	A Silent Voice	2016	Naoko Yamada
523	The Innocents	1961	Jack Clayton
524	Nostalgia	1983	Andrei Tarkovsky
525	Mean Streets	1973	Martin Scorsese
526	Rocky	1976	John G. Avildsen
527	I Am Cuba	1964	Mikhail Kalatozov
528	3-Iron	2004	Kim Ki-duk
529	Dirty Harry	1971	Don Siegel
530	Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior	1981	George Miller
531	The Crowd	1928	King Vidor
532	The Triplets of Belleville	2003	Sylvain Chomet
533	Black Swan	2010	Darren Aronofsky
534	Mon Oncle	1958	Jacques Tati
535	The Piano	1993	Jane Campion
536	Ed Wood	1994	Tim Burton
537	Head-On	2004	Fatih Akin
538	Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban	2004	Alfonso Cuarón
539	The Insider	1999	Michael Mann
540	Forbidden Games	1952	René Clément
541	Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2	2011	David Yates
542	When Harry Met Sally...	1989	Rob Reiner
543	The Wrestler	2008	Darren Aronofsky
544	The Player	1992	Robert Altman
545	Inside Llewyn Davis	2013	Joel & Ethan Coen
546	Blow-Up	1966	Michelangelo Antonioni
547	The Remains of the Day	1993	James Ivory
548	The Man Who Would Be King	1975	John Huston
549	The Florida Project	2017	Sean Baker
550	Napoleon	1927	Abel Gance
551	Suspiria	1977	Dario Argento
552	Drive	2011	Nicolas Winding Refn
553	The Producers	1967	Mel Brooks
554	That Obscure Object of Desire	1977	Luis Buñuel
555	The Outlaw Josey Wales	1976	Clint Eastwood
556	Klaus	2019	Sergio Pablos
557	The African Queen	1951	John Huston
558	Ninotchka	1939	Ernst Lubitsch
559	Slumdog Millionaire	2008	Danny Boyle
560	My Man Godfrey	1936	Gregory La Cava
561	Dangal	2016	Nitesh Tiwari
562	Blood Simple.	1984	Joel & Ethan Coen
563	Interstellar	2014	Christopher Nolan
564	About Elly	2009	Asghar Farhadi
565	Hot Fuzz	2007	Edgar Wright
566	Johnny Guitar	1954	Nicholas Ray
567	Planet of the Apes	1968	Franklin J. Schaffner
568	The Quiet Man	1952	John Ford
569	Fantastic Mr. Fox	2009	Wes Anderson
570	Casino Royale	2006	Martin Campbell
571	Monsieur Hulot's Holiday	1953	Jacques Tati
572	Adaptation.	2002	Spike Jonze
573	American Graffiti	1973	George Lucas
574	Barton Fink	1991	Joel & Ethan Coen
575	Tampopo	1985	Juzo Itami
576	Little Miss Sunshine	2006	Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris
577	Edward Scissorhands	1990	Tim Burton
578	The Earrings of Madame de…	1953	Max Ophüls
579	Arsenic and Old Lace	1944	Frank Capra
580	Doctor Zhivago	1965	David Lean
581	The Virgin Spring	1960	Ingmar Bergman
582	Jean de Florette	1986	Claude Berri
583	Zodiac	2007	David Fincher
584	Aparajito	1956	Satyajit Ray
585	The Asphalt Jungle	1950	John Huston
586	Ex Machina	2014	Alex Garland
587	The Favourite	2018	Yorgos Lanthimos
588	The Royal Tenenbaums	2001	Wes Anderson
589	The Twilight Samurai	2002	Yôji Yamada
590	Pierrot le Fou	1965	Jean-Luc Godard
591	The Day the Earth Stood Still	1951	Robert Wise
592	Enter the Dragon	1973	Robert Clouse
593	Batman Begins	2005	Christopher Nolan
594	Hell or High Water	2016	David Mackenzie
595	Dersu Uzala	1975	Akira Kurosawa
596	Letter from an Unknown Woman	1948	Max Ophüls
597	Sleuth	1972	Joseph L. Mankiewicz
598	Whisper of the Heart	1995	Yoshifumi Kondô
599	Nobody Knows	2004	Hirokazu Koreeda
600	Glengarry Glen Ross	1992	James Foley
601	Dogville	2003	Lars von Trier
602	Nine Queens	2000	Fabián Bielinsky
603	The Sweet Hereafter	1997	Atom Egoyan
604	Dazed and Confused	1993	Richard Linklater
605	True Romance	1993	Tony Scott
606	The Great Beauty	2013	Paolo Sorrentino
607	Band of Outsiders	1964	Jean-Luc Godard
608	Eighth Grade	2018	Bo Burnham
609	The Killing Fields	1984	Roland Joffé
610	Once	2007	John Carney
611	The Artist	2011	Michel Hazanavicius
612	Sling Blade	1996	Billy Bob Thornton
613	Ferris Bueller's Day Off	1986	John Hughes
614	Dial M for Murder	1954	Alfred Hitchcock
615	The Farewell	2019	Lulu Wang
616	Limelight	1952	Charles Chaplin
617	Charade	1963	Stanley Donen
618	Prisoners	2013	Denis Villeneuve
619	Mildred Pierce	1945	Michael Curtiz
620	Kubo and the Two Strings	2016	Travis Knight
621	Winter Sleep	2014	Nuri Bilge Ceylan
622	Hedwig and the Angry Inch	2001	John Cameron Mitchell
623	Kiss Me Deadly	1955	Robert Aldrich
624	Pride	2014	Matthew Warchus
625	After Hours	1985	Martin Scorsese
626	East of Eden	1955	Elia Kazan
627	Mission: Impossible - Fallout	2018	Christopher McQuarrie
628	The Mother and the Whore	1973	Jean Eustache
629	Perfect Blue	1997	Satoshi Kon
630	The Blues Brothers	1980	John Landis
631	Elevator to the Gallows	1958	Louis Malle
632	Pain and Glory	2019	Pedro Almodóvar
633	The Fugitive	1993	Andrew Davis
634	The Vanishing	1988	George Sluizer
635	Hidden Figures	2016	Theodore Melfi
636	JFK	1991	Oliver Stone
637	Dancer in the Dark	2000	Lars von Trier
638	Don't Look Now	1973	Nicolas Roeg
639	Dallas Buyers Club	2013	Jean-Marc Vallée
640	Hotel Rwanda	2004	Terry George
641	Sense and Sensibility	1995	Ang Lee
642	The Avengers	2012	Joss Whedon
643	Vampyr	1932	Carl Theodor Dreyer
644	Twelve Monkeys	1995	Terry Gilliam
645	Rain Man	1988	Barry Levinson
646	Pinocchio	1940	Hamilton Luske & Ben Sharpsteen
647	The White Ribbon	2009	Michael Haneke
648	Zelig	1983	Woody Allen
649	The Magnificent Ambersons	1942	Orson Welles & Fred Fleck
650	Stranger Than Paradise	1984	Jim Jarmusch
651	Picnic at Hanging Rock	1975	Peter Weir
652	3 Idiots	2009	Rajkumar Hirani
653	Phantom Thread	2017	Paul Thomas Anderson
654	The Last Emperor	1987	Bernardo Bertolucci
655	Birdman	2014	Alejandro González Iñárritu
656	Day of Wrath	1943	Carl Theodor Dreyer
657	The Texas Chain Saw Massacre	1974	Tobe Hooper
658	Deliverance	1972	John Boorman
659	Gandhi	1982	Richard Attenborough
660	Warrior	2011	Gavin O'Connor
661	In Bruges	2008	Martin McDonagh
662	C.R.A.Z.Y.	2005	Jean-Marc Vallée
663	To Live	1994	Zhang Yimou
664	The Fly	1986	David Cronenberg
665	The Lego Movie	2014	Phil Lord & Christopher Miller
666	Volver	2006	Pedro Almodóvar
667	The Thin Red Line	1998	Terrence Malick
668	Our Hospitality	1923	John G. Blystone & Buster Keaton
669	La Notte	1961	Michelangelo Antonioni
670	The Holy Mountain	1973	Alejandro Jodorowsky
671	Malcolm X	1992	Spike Lee
672	The Dark Knight Rises	2012	Christopher Nolan
673	The Purple Rose of Cairo	1985	Woody Allen
674	Isle of Dogs	2018	Wes Anderson
675	The Lion in Winter	1968	Anthony Harvey
676	A Short Film About Killing	1988	Krzysztof Kieślowski
677	Black Cat, White Cat	1998	Emir Kusturica
678	Mother	2009	Bong Joon-ho
679	Snatch.	2000	Guy Ritchie
680	If....	1968	Lindsay Anderson
681	Toy Story 4	2019	John Lasseter
682	Godzilla	1954	Ishirô Honda
683	A Short Film About Love	1988	Krzysztof Kieślowski
684	Intolerance: Love's Struggle Throughout the Ages	1916	D.W. Griffith
685	Carol	2015	Todd Haynes
686	Letters from Iwo Jima	2006	Clint Eastwood
687	Fiddler on the Roof	1971	Norman Jewison
688	Moon	2009	Duncan Jones
689	L'Eclisse	1962	Michelangelo Antonioni
690	Serpico	1973	Sidney Lumet
691	Porco Rosso	1992	Hayao Miyazaki
692	The Heiress	1949	William Wyler
693	Winter Light	1963	Ingmar Bergman
694	Cat on a Hot Tin Roof	1958	Richard Brooks
695	Elite Squad: The Enemy Within	2010	José Padilha
696	Deep Red	1975	Dario Argento
697	The Ox-Bow Incident	1942	William A. Wellman
698	Pride & Prejudice	2005	Joe Wright
699	The Blue Angel	1930	Josef von Sternberg
700	Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown	1988	Pedro Almodóvar
701	Three Colors: White	1994	Krzysztof Kieślowski
702	The Ladykillers	1955	Alexander Mackendrick
703	Breakfast at Tiffany's	1961	Blake Edwards
704	Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India	2001	Ashutosh Gowariker
705	Baby Driver	2017	Edgar Wright
706	Iron Man	2008	Jon Favreau
707	Kramer vs. Kramer	1979	Robert Benton
708	The Martian	2015	Ridley Scott
709	The Bourne Ultimatum	2007	Paul Greengrass
710	Thor: Ragnarok	2017	Taika Waititi
711	Burning	2018	Lee Chang-dong
712	The Wind Rises	2013	Hayao Miyazaki
713	Jojo Rabbit	2019	Taika Waititi
714	Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2	2013	Jay Oliva
715	Cache (Hidden)	2005	Michael Haneke
716	Delicatessen	1991	Jean-Pierre Jeunet & Marc Caro
717	Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory	1971	Mel Stuart
718	Shrek	2001	Andrew Adamson & Vicky Jenson
719	A Christmas Story	1983	Bob Clark
720	The Life of Oharu	1952	Kenji Mizoguchi
721	Pandora's Box	1929	G.W. Pabst
722	Five Easy Pieces	1970	Bob Rafelson
723	Thelma & Louise	1991	Ridley Scott
724	Andhadhun	2018	Sriram Raghavan
725	The Big Sick	2017	Michael Showalter
726	Gilda	1946	Charles Vidor
727	Creed	2015	Ryan Coogler
728	Blue Is the Warmest Color	2013	Abdellatif Kechiche
729	RoboCop	1987	Paul Verhoeven
730	Shane	1953	George Stevens
731	A Face in the Crowd	1957	Elia Kazan
732	Moana	2016	Ron Clements & John Musker
733	Argo	2012	Ben Affleck
734	Gravity	2013	Alfonso Cuarón
735	BlacKkKlansman	2018	Spike Lee
736	I Am a Fugitive from the Chain Gang	1932	Mervyn LeRoy
737	The Magnificent Seven	1960	John Sturges
738	Run Lola Run	1998	Tom Tykwer
739	A Star Is Born	1954	George Cukor
740	Mystic River	2003	Clint Eastwood
741	Brooklyn	2015	John Crowley
742	The Ten Commandments	1956	Cecil B. DeMille
743	Miracle on 34th Street	1947	George Seaton
744	Into the Wild	2007	Sean Penn
745	This Is England	2006	Shane Meadows
746	Love and Death	1975	Woody Allen
747	Mustang	2015	Deniz Gamze Ergüven
748	Departures	2008	Yojiro Takita
749	Star Trek	2009	J.J. Abrams
750	Selma	2014	Ava DuVernay

Please let me know if there are any glaring omissions, mistakes, or possible bias, as well as any other feedback that you have that could improve the list. Thank you.
Extra Lists:
500 ‘Greatest’ Movies of the 21st Century
CRITIC EDITION: Top10ner’s 1000 ‘Greatest’ Films of All Time
AUDIENCE EDITION: Top10ner’s 1000 ‘Greatest’ Movies of All Time

I will state flatout Dalton is my favorite Bond. Not only because I already have a bias before getting into 007 thanks to his superb acting in older films like Cromwell and Lion In the Winter (man his role as Philip puts the Beejeezles in me)...... But for the same reason everyone here states that he's the most faithful interpretation of Fleming's original protagonist so far on film.
In fact if you watched his 60s and 70s stuff you will understand why Dalton was an strong choice to follow up on Connery and they even tried to approach him a second time before Moore was selected after Lazenby called quits. I will save that for another topic but I really recommend people watch his performance in Wuthering Heights, Cromwell, and Lion In the Winter (3 of his earliest roles) to see just how PERFECT he was as an obvious choice as replacing Sean Connery as James Bond.
The answer is much simpler. TLD and LTK were weak franchise entries. They're by no means terrible but at best they are average films and I honestly would rate them as mediocre.
Even with how dark his Bond became, this is the real problem. If TLD had the same quality say GoldenEye, From Russia With Love, and most specific Casino Royale (esp since that film successfully convinced the public the change in Bond formula so easily because of its excellence), I think audiences would have accepted Dalton more smoothly and thus more at least a trilogy in his era rather than the incomplete duology we got.
In fact watching the films was pretty hard because of just how often subpar everything else is from cinematography to fight choreography and often underwhelming cast choices (esp the chosen Bond girls) and most of all boring slow mediocre writing.
The only real reason we ultimately find a way to enjoy his films is because Dalton is really a top tier actor. Dalton himself is the saving graces of these otherwise mediocre films.
Basically you can get Brosnan or Connery to act in TLD and it'd still come of as very weak because the whole film was mediocre. LTK without the 007 licensing and Dalton's outstanding acting would have come off as a generic action movie.
So basically Dalton suffered the same problems Brosnan did except he lacked a GoldenEye quality movie to kick off his tenure as Bond.
Anyone agree or not? I mean Craig started in the same similar rough place Dalton did and even had more attacks from the start for even other reasons that %%%$ed off long time fans such as being blonde instead of the traditional dark haired Bond and not seeming like the ideal first choice for the Bond archetype (as many others including George Clooney and my man Julian McMahon from Charmed, a show I'm also a fan of, were considered)......... But Casino Royale was so damn excellent in everyway (including Craig's acting in the film even if it wasn't what hardcore fans consider James Bondesque) that it gave Craig the sparkle needed to be accepted as the newest Bond esp by the mainstream.

I will state flatout Dalton is my favorite Bond. Not only because I already have a bias before getting into 007 thanks to his superb acting in older films like Cromwell and Lion In the Winter (man his role as Philip puts the Beejeezles in me)...... But for the same reason everyone here states that he's the most faithful interpretation of Fleming's original protagonist so far on film.
In fact if you watched his 60s and 70s stuff you will understand why Dalton was an strong choice to follow up on Connery and they even tried to approach him a second time before Moore was selected after Lazenby called quits. I will save that for another topic but I really recommend people watch his performance in Wuthering Heights, Cromwell, and Lion In the Winter (3 of his earliest roles) to see just how PERFECT he was as an obvious choice as replacing Sean Connery as James Bond.
The answer is much simpler. TLD and LTK were weak franchise entries. They're by no means terrible but at best they are average films and I honestly would rate them as mediocre.
Even with how dark his Bond became, this is the real problem. If TLD had the same quality say GoldenEye, From Russia With Love, and most specific Casino Royale (esp since that film successfully convinced the public the change in Bond formula so easily because of its excellence), I think audiences would have accepted Dalton more smoothly and thus more at least a trilogy in his era rather than the incomplete duology we got.
In fact watching the films was pretty hard because of just how often subpar everything else is from cinematography to fight choreography and often underwhelming cast choices (esp the chosen Bond girls) and most of all boring slow mediocre writing.
The only real reason we ultimately find a way to enjoy his films is because Dalton is really a top tier actor. Dalton himself is the saving graces of these otherwise mediocre films.
Basically you can get Brosnan or Connery to act in TLD and it'd still come of as very weak because the whole film was mediocre. LTK without the 007 licensing and Dalton's outstanding acting would have come off as a generic action movie.
So basically Dalton suffered the same problems Brosnan did except he lacked a GoldenEye quality movie to kick off his tenure as Bond.
Anyone agree or not? I mean Craig started in the same similar rough place Dalton did and even had more attacks from the start for even other reasons that %%%$ed off long time fans such as being blonde instead of the traditional dark haired Bond and not seeming like the ideal first choice for the Bond archetype (as many others including George Clooney and my man Julian McMahon from Charmed, a show I'm also a fan of, were considered)......... But Casino Royale was so damn excellent in everyway (including Craig's acting in the film even if it wasn't what hardcore fans consider James Bondesque) that it gave Craig the sparkle needed to be accepted as the newest Bond esp by the mainstream.

During quarantine, I've had the opportunity to rewatch every movie in relatively short succession. I've seen them all 2-10 times and have been a lifelong Bond fan. I enjoy every Bond film, even the "bad" ones, but I wanted to try and rank them. I used a scoring system to help me, but ultimately went with my gut (e.g. License to Kill MUST be better than The World is Not Enough). I thought a tier system of ranking was useful, because it really is splitting hairs to rank some of these. Feel free to critique my ratings, my ratings weightings, and opinions!
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You could say I have too much time on my hands
Tier 7: The Worst

1. Die Another Day: Best Sword Fight

- Why it's not irredeemable: For being the lowest ranked film on this list, it's not without its moments. Bond getting caught, tortured, then escaping from MI6 was interesting and novel. The ice hotel was neat, as well as the chase scene. I'll even defend the much maligned invisible car, as the Aston Martin Vanquish is quite a car.
- Why it's not higher: Personally, I think Halle Berry is a terrible Bond girl, alternating between damsel in distress and super woman as the plot demands it. Moreover, Graves and the plot in general is pretty cheesy and boring. Perhaps most damaging is the deadly serious tone of the movie, which doesn't even provide the fun and excitement Brosnan's films generally provide the viewer.
- Most under-appreciated part: The fencing scene is the best action scene of the entire movie. It's surprising it took Bond this long to fence, but seeing them go at it across the club was a blast.
​
Tier 6: Disappointing

1. Quantum of Solace: Best Car Chase

- Why it's this high: The action is quite good, likely meriting the distinction of the best car chase in the entire series (the pre-credits sequence). Mathis is a good ally and it is sad to see him go.
- Why it's not higher: My biggest beef with Craig's Bond films is that they are too serious, so when the plot and script isn't top-notch, the movie watching experience is just kind of dull. Quantum of Solace takes a bold risk in making the first Bond sequel, but unfortunately it's just not that good. Greene seems like a rather pathetic Bond villain, and his henchman (the worst in the series?) ends up in a neck-brace after getting tripped by Camilla. Also, the shaky cam is distracting and exhausting.
- Most under-appreciated part: I actually thing the theme song is pretty good! Maybe I'm just too much of a Jack White groupie, but I think it rocks.
​

1. Moonraker: Best Locales

- Why it's this high: I'm pleased to see Jaws making a return, as he is an amazing henchman. On that note, the pre-credits sequence with Bond and Jaws falling out of the plane is exhilarating. Holly Goodhead is a very good Bond girl, beautiful, smart, and competent. Roger Moore always does an excellent job playing the role with suavity and wit.
- Why it's not higher: Gosh it's cheesy. Particularly egregious is Jaws' love story. The theme song is terrible and Bond doesn't have any solid allies besides Goodhead and Jaws.
- Most under-appreciated part: They really go all out with the settings here. Obviously, space is pretty polarizing, but I think Bond clearly should go to space at SOME point during the series. In addition, Italy and Brazil were gorgeous views, while Drax's estate is magnificent.
​

1. Spectre: Best Shooting

- Why it's this high: Rewatching this for the second time, I realized Lea Seydoux does a good job as the Bond girl, and it's actually quite believable she and James could work out, as she is the daughter of an assassin and can understand him (as Blofeld points out). Seeing Bond show off his marksmanship was quite satisfying, especially that one long shot during the escape from Blofeld's compound. Bonus points for Bond's DB10 and resurrecting the DB5.
- Why it's not higher: The fatal flaw of this film is making Blofeld Bond's adopted brother. How did Bond not recognize him? How is Blofeld able to keep himself secret from British intelligence yet every criminal worth his salt knows of him? The worst part is that it actually cheapens the plot of the other Craig movies. I believe the Bond franchise should stay clear from sequels from here on out. Yes, they can weave a great story if done correctly, but it's so much more difficult to make great sequels (e.g. Star Wars only made two worthy sequels in seven tries) than to do one-offs. As usual for a Craig film, Bond has little charisma (save for his surprisingly good rapport with Moneypenny) and little in the way of jokes to lighten the mood.
- Most under-appreciated part: The train fight scene with Dave Bautista is great! Gosh it was awesome to see them go at it, break through walls, and a priceless expression on Bautista's face when he knows he's done. Bautista is the first decent henchman since the 90s, so glad to see the series go back to this staple.
​

1. The Man with the Golden Gun: Best Potential, Worst Execution

- Why it's this high: This Bond movie frustrates more than any other, as it has the potential to be an all-time great. Bond's debriefing starts off with promise, as it turns out the world's top assassin is gunning for Bond! For the first time in the series, Bond seems vulnerable! M makes a hilarious quip as to who would try to kill Bond ("jealous husbands ... the list is endless"). Furthermore, the legendary Christopher Lee is possible the best Bond villain, a rare peer of 007.
- Why it's not higher: Unfortunately, the movie opts to change course so that it's just Maud Adams trying to get Bond to kill Scaramanga. Goodnight is beautiful, but maybe the most inept Bond girl of all-time. They used a SLIDE WHISTLE, ruining one of the coolest Bond stunts ever (the car jump).
- Most under-appreciated part: Nick Nack is a splendid henchman, showing the role can be more than just a strongman.
​

1. Diamonds Are Forever: Great Beginning and Ending, but Bad Everywhere Else

- Why it's this high: Is there another Bond with such a great contrast between the beginning/ending and everything in between? Connery shows his tough side, as he muscles his way through the pre-credits scene. Particularly good was the part where he seduces the woman, then uses her bikini top to choke her. At the end, Bond expertly uses his wine knowledge to detect something is amiss, then dispatches Kidd and Wint in style. Other cool scenes include Bond scaling the building to reach Blofeld and Bond driving the Mustang through the alley.
- Why it's not higher: This is one of the films that I find myself liking less and less over time. Vegas, and especially the space laboratory scene, just seem cheesy. Connery is officially too old at this point, and Jill St. John just isn't a very compelling Bond girl. I would've preferred to have seen more of Plenty O'Toole, but alas 'twas not meant to be. Leiter is uninspired as well. Having Bond go after Blofeld for the millionth time just seems tired at this point.
- Most under-appreciated part: Mr. Kidd and Wint are the creepiest henchmen in the Bond universe, but I'd argue they are some of the best. Their banter and creative modes of execution are quite chilling and thrilling.
​

1. A View to a Kill: Best Theme

- Why it's this high: Is it a hot take to not have View in the bottom five? Let me explain. I contend Duran Duran's theme is the very best. The ending fight scene on the Golden Gate Bridge is actually one of the most iconic ending set pieces in the series. The plot is stellar on paper, as the horse racing part was a very Bondian side story, and the idea of an attack on Silicon Valley actually seems even more plausible today.
- Why it's not higher: It's self-evident that Moore is way too old for the part. Some parts are just mind-blowingly ridiculous, such as the fire truck chase scene through San Francisco and the part where Stacey is caught unaware by a blimp behind her. Speaking of Stacey, she may be beautiful, but she spends most of the movie shrieking whenever something goes wrong.
- Most under-appreciated part: The scene with Bond and Ivanova is cool (I always like it when he interacts with other spies) and quite entertaining how he fools her with the cassettes.
​
Tier 5: Below Average

1. Octopussy: The Most Characteristically Roger Moore Bond Film

- Why it's this high: Maud Adams has great screen presence as Octopussy, and her Amazonian-like women are cool to watch fight. Bond's deft swipe of the egg was nicely done. On a related aside, I wish Bond films would emphasize Bond's intellect more, as it seems the 60s and 70s films would allow Bond to showcase his vast knowledge more frequently than he does today. Gobinda is a fierce henchman, while India in general is a cool location. The plot is realistic, yet grand (war-mongering Russian general tries to detonate a nuke to get NATO to turn on itself).
- Why it's not higher: This is the first Moore film where he simply was too old and shouldn't have been cast. Yes, it's too cheesy at times, most infamously during the Tarzan yell. Bond also doesn't use any cool vehicles.
- Most under-appreciated part: People tend to focus too much on Bond dressing as a clown, but the scene where Bond furiously tries to get to the bomb in time to defuse it is one of the tensest moments in the series. Moore's "Dammit there's a bomb in there!" really demonstrated the gravity of the situation (I get goosebumps during that part).
​

1. Tomorrow Never Dies: Most Tasteful Humor

- Why it's this high: Brosnan really settles into the role well here. He gives the most charismatic Bond performance in 15 years or so. His quip "I'm just here at Oxford, brushing up on a little Danish" is an all-time great Bond line. Teri Hatcher is stunning as Paris Carver, delivering a memorable performance with her limited screen time. The plot is original and ages well, highlighting the potential downsides of media power, while Carver is an above average villain.
- Why it's not higher: Wai Lin is good for action, but the chemistry between her and Bond is non-existent. By the end of the movie, Pryce just seem silly (especially the scene where he mocks Wai Lin's martial arts skills). There aren't any good Bond allies, as Jack Wade doesn't impress in his return to the franchise. In general though, the movie has few things terribly wrong with it, it just doesn't excel in many ways.
- Most under-appreciated part: Dr. Kaufman is hysterical. At first, I thought "this is weird," but by the end of the scene I'm cracking up. I genuinely wish they found someway to bring him back for World, but c'est la vie.
​

1. The World Is Not Enough: Less than the Sum of its Parts

- Why it's this high: According to my spreadsheet, this is a top 10 Bond film, while on my first watch on this film I thought it was bottom five. I think the truth is that it's somewhere in between. I like the settings, everything from the temporary MI-6 headquarters to Azerbaijan. Elektra is an all-time great Bond girl, with a nice plot twist and character arc. The glasses where Bond sees through women's clothing are hilarious. The sense of danger is strong, with everyone from Bond to M being in danger. The return of Zukovsky is a nice plus.
- Why it's not higher: I think two things really doom this film. First, Renard is totally wasted a henchman. The idea of him not feeling pain is a cool one, but he just seems boring and extraneous. I don't even think Carlyle acted poorly, he was just misused. Secondly, the ending (after Bond killing Elektra which is quite good) is rather terrible. The whole scene in the sub just isn't entertaining or engaging.
- Most under-appreciated part: I'm going to defend Denise Richards as Christmas Jones. Although no Ursula Andress, Richards is absolutely gorgeous and did not actively make Bond's mission more difficult, which is more than some Bond girls can say *cough Britt Ekland. In particular, I found her introductory scene to be quite memorable and convincing. Also, the Christmas quip at the end is quite cheeky.
​
Tier 4: Solid

1. The Living Daylights:

- Why it's this high: Dalton brings a breath of fresh air to the franchise here. His more serious take makes for interesting movies that seem more unique than most. I'm happy to see this subreddit appreciate Dalton more than the casual fun does, but I wouldn't go as far as the Dalton fanboys and say he's the best Bond or anything like that. I do wish he got the role sooner and did more films. Moving on to Daylights, it's got a good intro for Dalton and good plot in general. Surprisingly, Bond's fidelity doesn't bother me one bit, as it actually makes sense that Kara falls in love with James by the end, given all they've gone through.
- Why it's not higher: The biggest reason is that the villain is just terrible. Whitaker seems silly and pathetic, a terrible contrast to Dalton's serious nature. I think Whitaker might be the worst in the series, and a Bond movie can't be great without a good villain. Also, Dalton doesn't have much charm and is abysmal at one-liners, which, in my opinion, IS a facet of the perfect James Bond.
- Most under-appreciated part: The Aston Martin Vantage is a beautiful car, and the chase scene across the ice is great! It's both exciting and funny! Not sure why people don't talk about this chase scene and this car more; it's arguably the highlight of the movie for me.
​

1. Thunderball: The Most Beautiful

- Why it's this high: Thunderball used to be top five for me and here is why. The underwater scenes, the setting, the score, and the Bond girls are beautiful even to this day. Domino is excellent, while Volpe is a tour de force, oozing sexuality and danger. I think the underwater parts are interesting and novel, creating a staple of sorts for the franchise. The DB 5 is always welcome, and the jetpack use was quite cool for the time (and to some extent now).
- Why it's not higher: Some would say it's boring, while I would more generously admit the plot is slow. Furthermore, the theme song is all-time bad (apparently they could have used Johnny Cash!!!), and there is no great henchman for Bond to dispatch.
- Most under-appreciated part: Two plot ideas I liked a lot: Bond being injured and needing rehab, plus the part where all the 00s meet up and then are sent to the corners of the globe.
​

1. Never Say Never Again: Guilty Pleasure

- Why it's this high: Rewatching Never for the third time, I was struck by how fun this movie is. It's exciting, funny, and fast-paced. Basically, it's a more exciting version of Thunderball, with better pacing and better humor. I think Irvin Kershner did a great job managing this star studded cast. Carrera is a firecracker as Blush, Sydow is a convincing Blofeld, and Basinger is a classic Bond girl. Connery clearly has a blast returning to the role, doing a great job despite his advanced age. If anything, this one might not be ranked high enough.
- Why it's not higher: The music is terrible. Normally I don't notice these things, but one can't help but notice how dreadful this one is. The theme is awful as well. I'd argue this is the worst music of any Bond film.
- Most under-appreciated part: The humor! This is one of the funniest Bonds, as I found myself laughing out loud at various parts (e.g. Mr Bean!).
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1. The Spy Who Loved Me: Best Intro

- Why it's this high: There's a lot to love about this one, so I get why this ranks highly for many. It is simply the best introduction, starting with Bond romancing a woman, followed by a skii chase, then jumping off the cliff and pulling the Union Jack parachute! The Lotus is a top 3 Bond car. Jaws is a superb henchman. Triple X was an excellent Bond girl, deadly, charming, and beautiful. Of course, Moore is charming and the locations are exotic (Egypt was a cool locale). If I had to pick one Moore movie for a newcomer to watch, it would be this one.
- Why it's not higher: The theme song is bad, and Stromberg is a below average villain. I also think the last 45 minutes or so of the movie kind of drags.
- Most under-appreciated part: The whole dynamic between Bond and Triple X is great. Whenever Bond movies show Bond squaring off against other spies (see View to a Kill, Goldeneye) it's just a pleasure to watch.
​

1. Live and Let Die: Most Suave

- Why it's this high: Roger Moore superbly carves out his own take on Bond in an excellent addition to the franchise. The boat chase is my favorite in the series, and Live and Let Die is my second favorite theme. Jane Seymour is a good Bond girl, while Tee Hee and Kananga are a solid villain/henchman duo. Unpopular opinion: I find J.W. Pepper to be hilarious.
- Why it's not higher: The introduction isn't very good, as Bond isn't even included! The second climax with the voodoo isn't great. Bond blowing up Kananga has aged terribly.
- Most under-appreciated part: When Bond is visited in his apartment by M and Moneypenny, Bond rushes to hide his girl from his coworkers. Finally, when they leave and he unzips the dress with his magnetic watch is one of the best uses of a Bond gadget in the series, showcasing why Moore might be the most charming Bond of them all.
​

1. You Only Live Twice: Best Blofeld

- Why it's this high: Just your classic, fun Sean Connery Bond movie. It was a great decision to send Bond to Japan for his first Asian visit, giving the movie a fresh feel. The ending set piece battle is potentially the best of this staple of 60s/70s Bonds. Tiger Tanaka is one of Bond's cooler allies. Pleasance killed it as Blofeld; when I think of Blofeld, I think of his take. In what could have been cheesy, he is actually somewhat frightening.
- Why it's not higher: The whole "we need to make you look Japanese" part seems both unrealistic (who is he really fooling?) plus surprisingly impotent coming from Tiger Tanaka who seems to be a competent and connected man otherwise. Honestly though, this movie doesn't have a major weakness.
- Most under-appreciated part: The fight scene with the guard in the executive's office is probably the best hand-to-hand fight in the series up until that point.
​
Tier 3: Excellent

1. Dr. No: The Most Spy-Like

- Why it's this high: Nearly 60 years later, this film is still a blast to watch, due in no small part to its focus on the little things of being a spy. I adore the scenes where Bond does the little things spies (presumably) do, such as putting a hair across the door, or showing Bond playing solitaire while waiting to spring his trap on Prof. Dent. I also enjoy the suspense of Bond sleuthing around the island, while he and the viewer are completely unaware of whom the villain is until quite late in the film. It's easy to take for granted now, but this film established so many series traditions that were ingenious. My personal favorite is Bond's introduction at the card table: "Bond .... James Bond."
- Why it's not higher: The film just doesn't have the payoff it deserves. Maybe it's just a result of the time and budget, but from the point Bond escapes on, it's just mediocre. Particularly egregious is the "fight" between Dr. No and Bond where No meets his demise.
- Most under-appreciated part: Ursula Andress was a surprisingly well developed Bond girl, with a shockingly violent backstory (she was raped!). Obviously, she is beautiful and the beach scene is iconic, but I was pleasantly surprised to conclude she is more than just eye candy.
​

1. License to Kill: The Grittiest

- Why it's this high: On my first watch, this was my least favorite Bond film, as I thought it was too dark and violent to befit 007. By my third time watching, I've decided it's actually one of the best. Fortunately, I don't have to go on my "Ackshually, Dalton did a good job" rant with this subreddit. I liked the wedding intro and the concept of a revenge arc for Leiter (although come on he should've been killed by a freaking shark). Also, Lamora and (especially) Bouvier are great Bond girls. Bouvier is both competent and beautiful, and it's great to see Bond choose her at the end.
- Why it's not higher: The theme song is atrocious, Dalton is so angry (dare I say charmless?) the whole time it's almost puzzling why Bouvier and Lamora fall for him, and Bond doesn't use any cool vehicles.
- Most under-appreciated part: Sanchez is actually a sneaky good Bond villain.
​

1. For Your Eyes Only: The Most Underrated

- Why it's this high: I think Moore is a bit underrated as Bond. Yes, he was too old towards the end and yes, his movies were at times too campy, but he himself played the role admirably. He was the most charming and witty of all the Bonds, so by the time he got his first relatively serious plot to work with, he hit it out of the park. Anyhow, the climactic mountaintop assault is one of my favorite Bond action climaxes. Columbo is one of the best Bond allies, and the plot twist where he turns out to be good and Kristatos bad was well-done.
- Why it's not higher: The intro is just silly. Bibi's romantic infatuation with Bond is just ...er... uncomfortable?
- Most under-appreciated part: The theme song is a banger. What a chorus!
​
Tier 2: Exceptional

1. Skyfall: The Sharpest Film (From Plot to Aesthetics)

- Why it's this high: One of the best plots of the entire series. The idea of an older Bond who had lost a step, along with making M the focus point of the movie, works very well. Seeing Bond's childhood home is also pretty cool. Bardem's take on Silva is delightful and a lot of fun to watch. Even the cinematography is a series peak, while Adele's them is excellent.
- Why it's not higher: One thing most Craig Bond films suffer from is the lack of a Bond-worthy henchman. Skyfall is no exception. More importantly, Bond girls are mostly irrelevant to the film. Yes, Severine is both beautiful and interesting, but she's scarcely twenty minutes of the film.
- Most under-appreciated part: Setting the new supporting characters up nicely. The Moneypenny backstory was well-done. Casting Ralph Fiennes as the new M is a great choice in of itself, but he also got a nice chuck of background story to help us going forward.
​

1. Casino Royale: The First Bond Film I'd Show a Series Newcomer

- Why it's this high: Craig's take on Bond feels like a breath of fresh air. In particular, his hand-to-hand combat scenes are so much better (and more believable) than any other Bond. The parkour chase scene is one of the best chase scenes in the series. Le Chifre is an excellent villain, but, more importantly, Vesper is an all-time great Bond girl. The conversation between Vesper and Bond on the train is probably the most interesting of any film. Bonus points for Jeffrey Wright as Leiter and the Aston Martin DBS.
- Why it's not higher: There are hardly any humorous parts or much charm displayed by Bond in general. More importantly, the movie should have just ended when Bond wakes up in rehab. The rest of the movie feels confused and superfluous.
- Most under-appreciated part: The decision to change from chemin de fer to poker makes for much better (and understandable!) cinema. The poker scenes are the best of Bond's many gambling scenes throughout the series.
​

1. Goldeneye: The Most Fun

- Why it's this high: Wow, rewatching Goldeneye I was struck by how entertaining the whole thing is. The opening jump is breath taking, the scene where Bond drives his evaluator around is hilarious, and Xenia Onatopp is a livewire. Sean Bean is a formidable villain as 006, and a great foil to James. Bond and Judi Dench's first scene together is amazing. Goldeneye feels like the first modern Bond, yet so true to the predecessors. Wade and especially Zukovsky are excellent allies.
- Why it's not higher: Simonova is a forgettable Bond girl. She's not annoying, unattractive, or acted poorly, but is just below average in most regards (looks, back story, chemistry with Bond, plot).
- Most under-appreciated part: the action is just so much better than any Bond before it
​

1. From Russia with Love: The Best Henchman (Red Grant)

- Why it's this high: Interesting settings, beautiful women, and an engaging story make this a classic. I'm not the first to point out that the scenes with Grant and Bond aboard the train are some of the best in the entire series. Grant is one of the few villains who feels like a match for 007. Furthermore, the addition of Desmond Llewyn as Q was crucial and Kerim Bey is one of the better Bond allies.
- Why it's not higher: The helicopter scene should've just been omitted, especially when combined with the subsequent boat chase. It's just awkward to watch.
- Most under-appreciated part: The gypsy scenes are quite exotic and entertaining.
​

1. On Her Majesty's Secret Service: The Most Heartfelt

- Why it's this high: James and Tracy's love story is charming, and when she dies at the end, this is the one and only time in the entire series where the viewer feels genuinely sad. Diana Rigg did an excellent job convincing the audience Bond could finally fall in love with one girl. The skiing scenes were beautifully filmed, and the score was exemplary. Personally, I quite liked Lazenby's take; however, some of his lines and jokes fall flat. To his credit, he looks and acts like Bond more than any other actor.
- Why it's not higher: Honestly, it does drag at times in the first half, plus there is no theme song!
- Most under-appreciated part: Bond's Aston Martin DBS is a beautiful car, combining 60's sports-car beauty with Aston Martin's elegance.
​
Tier 1: The Best

1. Goldfinger: The quintessential Bond

- Why it's this high: From the opening ("Positively shocking") to the seduction of Pussy Galore at the end, this film has it all. Goldfinger is an all time great villain, while Odd Job is an exceptional henchman. Connery delivers a master performance, and drives THE classic Bond Car, ejector seat included. The reason I put it #1 is not necessarily because it is the best film (although it is great), it checks all the boxes of what a perfect Bond film should do.
- Why it's not higher: I cannot think of any notable imperfections.
- Most under-appreciated part: The golf scene between Bond and Goldfinger is a delight to watch, demonstrating Bond's wits for the first and only time on the golf course.

Going through old issues of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and posting highlights in my own words, continuing in the footsteps of daprice82. For anyone interested, I highly recommend signing up for the actual site at f4wonline and checking out the full archives.
• PREVIOUS •
1987
FUTURE YEARS ARCHIVE:
The Complete Observer Rewind Archive by daprice82

1-4-1988	1-11-1988	1-18-1988	1-25-1988
2-1-1988	•	•	•

• The wrestling war is, for all intents and purposes, over. The war between the territories, the ongoing collapse of the territory system, and Vince McMahon’s rise is certainly the biggest story in decades, and at this point the war is over and Vince McMahon has won. Sure, the fighting is still ongoing, but even if JCP can recover from their troubles, the gap between them and WWF is there and it’s just going to keep widening.
  
• The biggest story of the week is that WWF has announced its ppv schedule for the next year. March 27 (Wrestlemania IV), August 29, November 24 (Survivor Series), and January 15 (Royal Rumble). Four ppvs doesn’t look like a big deal, just capitalization on the market trend. But it’s going to have a major effect on Crockett. Crockett had been planning ppv shows in early April (Crockett Cup), July (Great American Bash), and November 24 (Starrcade). With WWF’s new calendar and the exclusivity clause in their ppv deals requiring no competing wrestling ppv events 60 days before and 21 days after their shows and the success of Survivor Series and Wrestlemania IV (presumed for that one - Dave expects Wrestlemania IV to be the biggest grossing ppv ever to this point), WWF is putting the squeeze to Crockett. And in doing so, they’re killing any chance Crockett can compete and break into the ppv market. Long-term, ppv is going to mean live gates will be completely insignificant (like it already is in boxing - and hey, in 2020 we have seen the prophecy fulfilled). Because of ppv, Dave expects Wrestlemania IV to gross as much as every other American promotion will gross for the entirety of 1988, combined. Hence why the gap is wide and will only get wider, and JCP will never catch up. JCP’s going to try to counter, and the apparent move will be to shift those events to prime-time WTBS live (or very recently filmed, like a Saturday Night’s Main Event) specials all built as major cards. Starrcade probably will not be among those, Dave figures this will help.
  
• WWF’s Royal Rumble came out the clear winner against the Bunkhouse Stampede Finals. The Rumble drew an 8.2 rating and was seen in 3.2 million homes, which is twice as many people as when Georgia Championship Wrestling’s show on WTBS was big several years ago when this wrestling war was getting started. It’s the highest rated show in the history of the USA network, and the encore broadcast on Monday drew a 4.8 rating (a regular episode of Prime Time Wrestling in that time slot usually draws a 2.9). All this means that the repeat showing of the Rumble was probably the second highest rated show on cable during the last week.
  
• PPV numbers take longer to get, but it’s possible to make some sense of preliminary reports for the Bunkhouse Finals. The show was likely profitable, purely in terms of money, but the reaction was strongly negative. Early reports estimate the buyrate at 4%, which tells us that if given a fair shot at ppv, Crocket could be profitable with a ppv line up. That’s also encouraging for Crockett, since the card wasn’t strong and the show didn’t have the best heat, but those things may be moot now that WWF has a full year’s schedule set up. Big props to the JCP broadcast team for how well they sold the ppv in advance, because ppv and closed-circuit purchases are majority (90%) last minute, as opposed to house show tickets which are typically bought well in advance.
  
• Wrestlemania IV is expected to sell out by the time this issue hits you. Yeah, Dave. By 32 years now. Anyway, about 14,000 seats went on sale to the general public on Saturday and all but a few thousand were sold by the end of the day. The highest price was $150. It’s funny to Dave that despite the crowd discrepancy, WWF may make as much off 14,000 tickets for Mania IV as they did selling 90,000 for Mania III (The April 3, 2000 issue is the earliest I can find for when Dave revised his view of the numbers for Wrestlemania 3). Anyway, the Convention Center is home to Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino, and Donald Trump is using Wrestlemania as the centerpiece of a weekend-long event designed to attract vacation families to his casinos, including a Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine concert in the adjacent Convention Center ballroom. So I guess we can put Donald Trump down as the innovator of Wrestlemania weekend. WWF claims Wrestlemania will be available in up to 9 million homes on ppv, and if the show gets a similar buyrate to last year’s then we’re talking around $15 million on ppv, $1 million live, and probably $4-5 million at closed-circuit.
  

Watch: Dave Meltzer talks about Bresloff telling him 78,000

• The employment status of the Rock & Roll Express, Michael Hayes, and Steve Williams with JCP has significantly cleared up. The Rock & Roll Express were fired at the Bunkhouse Finals. On January 23, they were asked to do a clean job to Warlord and Ivan Koloff in 12 minutes. Koloff’s been a low card guy recently, and they have been main guys for years, so instead they did the job in 12 seconds (Ricky Morton laid down and let Warlord pin him). Then they flew to New York for the finals, and Dusty learned what happened (he was not at the show on the 23rd) and fired them on the spot. They could be heading anywhere, though WWF is doubtful due to their size. Michael Hayes was fired last week following an incident. He was teaming with Jimmy Garvin and feuding with Ric Flair on the most recent tour; those spots have been taken by Ron Garvin and Sting, the latter of whom is having an accelerated push as a result. Hayes is expected back at World Class, though he did send a resume to WWF. As for Steve Williams, he stayed an extra week in Japan and missed the Stampede. He’s in a contract dispute with Crockett over whether the money he makes in Japan counts against his guaranteed minimum pay from Crockett (Crockett says yes, Williams says no, you’re not paying it so it doesn’t count toward the minimum you are paying him - corporations are not your friends). Williams has disconnected his phone and is out of communication.
  
• Cable ratings for wrestling in the fourth quarter of 1987 dropped from the the third quarter. The World Championship Wrestling show dropped from second to eighth overall, and WWF’s All-American Wrestling surpassed it at seventh. Prime Time Wrestling, formerly ranked third, fell to tenth, while the Sunday WTBS show dropped from tenth to twentieth. AWA on ESPN dropped out of the top 20 (it was number 19 in the third quarter). Some of the drop probably comes from the change in how ratings are gathered (enter the Nielsen box, or “people-meter” as it’s known at this point). There’s controversy about this whole way of gathering ratings, as detractors believe that the boxes ensure shows that appeal to women will receive higher ratings than they would get otherwise. Regardless, wrestling shows across the board dropped about 10% in the ratings in the fourth quarter.
  
• New Japan’s “Martial Arts Olympic” event in the Tokyo Dome has some hoping it will surpass Wrestlemania 3 for biggest live gate ever. They’ve sold tickets at as much as $220 for ringside and sold out those events, so there’s a chance they could if they price right and sell out. Dave’s been told that Inoki vs. Koji Kitao has the potential to double the gate of Inoki’s matches with Leon Spinks and Masa Saito (each over $700,000). If they can get Taue, that’s probably the best opponent they can get for Inoki to ensure a big draw. I think last week he may have written All Japan, but he's very clear this is an Inoki idea this week.
  
• Speaking of Inoki, New Japan recently did a tour in Italy. The big show was January 24 in Rome and drew 8,000 fans. New Japan actually airs on tv in Italy, and Inoki was the big draw, and he pinned Badnews Allen in the main event. Shane Douglas won a battle royal on the show too. These are the first “western-style” pro wrestling matches in Italy since WWF did a show in Milan back in October.
  
• Jake Roberts was on Ellery Queen mystery magazine’s cover this month, and Muscular Development did a cover story on Jesse Ventura. The Ventura article is excellent, but mostly about his life and training regimen, and not to do with wrestling.
  

Jake Roberts on the cover of Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine

• Genichiro Tenryu won all the major awards in Japan. Tokyo Sports named in MVP of wrestling, and Gong Magazine and Weekly Pro Wrestling gave him the equivalent. He beat Riki Choshu in Gong’s annual popularity poll as the most popular Japanese wrestler (Maeda came in second, so pressure there for New Japan to bring him back). Chigusa Nagayo placed 9th, the first time a woman has cracked the top ten of Gong’s poll.
  
• Dave went to the WWF show at the Cow Palace on January 30. It’s his first live show since Japan, and the show drew pretty well, but not as well as you’d expect from a show with a battle royal in the area. The big news of the show were four no-shows: the British Bulldogs (Dave’s heard one of them collapsed at the airport and the other went to the hospital with him), Billy Jack Haynes (his health’s really bad and he’s missed a lot of bookings lately and folks are speculating his career is done), and Bam Bam Bigelow (scheduled to face Ted DiBiase, but he had knee surgery so no clue when he’ll be back). Due to the no-shows, the athletic commission ordered WWF to offer refunds to anyone who wanted them before the end of the second match. He runs down the card: Ron Bass pinned JYD, Ultimate Warrior pinned Harley Race. Warrior’s over big, but still sucks. Ted DiBiase beat George Steele by DQ and Dave alludes to last week’s decision to no longer call matches “abortions” and says “The only word to describe this match is one that has been banned from my vocabulary.” Don Muraco pinned Butch Reed in an okay match. The Jumping Bomb Angels beat the Glamour Girls to retain their tag titles in the only good match on the card (Dave gives it three stars). Noriyo Tateno pinned one of the Girls, Dave doesn’t identify her, saying “you know how it is with those people, they all look alike to me,” which is a pretty solid skewering of people who say that about the Angels and other Asian wrestlers, imo. Ted DiBiase won the bunkhouse battle royal to moderate heat. Hercules pinned Hillbilly Jim. Jim Duggan and Ken Patera beat Demolition and Mr. Fuji by pinning Fuji. Jake Roberts and One Man Gang went to a double countout.
  
• By the way, the California state assembly voted 60-7 to reclassify pro wrestling as entertainment and not a sport. So that means once the bill passes the state senate, athletic commissions will have no power over pro wrestling in California, and wrestlers will not need wrestling licenses to work in the state (which was already a joke of a requirement - Dave got a print-out once of all 60 wrestlers licensed in California and major guys like Hogan and Steamboat weren’t on the list).
  
• The lineup for AWA’s February 4 show, the last at the Minneapolis Auditorium before it’s demolished, has been announced. Curt Hennig defends the AWA Title against Greg Gagne in a cage match. The Midnight Rockers defend the tag titles against a mystery team (the latest announcement was Nick Kiniski and Kevin Kelly, but Kiniski was let go this week and they’re building to a face turn for Kelly). The rest of the card has Dick the Bruiser vs. Adnan al-Kaissey, Billy Robinson vs. Tom Zenk (particularly interesting since Robinson is in for a one-off but has a reputation as a shooter, as well as competing against Verne as a promoter sometimes, so there’s a chance he may go into business for himself), Wahoo McDaniel and Baron Von Raschke vs. The Nasty Boys, and Billy Jack Strong vs. Soldat Ustinov.
  
• Adrian Adonis broke his ankle at the AWA tv tapings in Minot, North Dakota.He was getting whipped into the turnbuckle and stepped into a hole in the ring. He won’t be back for at least two months. Adonis has about 4 months left before he dies.
  
• AWA released a song called “Superstars of the AWA.” Jerry Lawler and Jeff Jarrett were in it due to the increased swapping of talent between Memphis and AWA. I could not find the song.
  
• Something Dave forgot to mention about the WWF battle royal in San Francisco. Technically there were 19 guys, but only 18 actually worked the match. George Steele came out about a minute late, walked around the ring for a few minutes without getting inside, and then just walked to the back with JYD when JYD was eliminated (JYD was the second out of the match). Dave guesses at George’s age he didn’t want to take the bump or something. Dave recalls a story he heard about an unnamed WWF “neanderthal character” who stalled outside the ring for a complete match, and when one fan yelled to “Get in the ring, you lazy bum” he retorted (despite his character not being able to speak English): “What do you think this is, the NWA?”
  
• WWF Superstars tapings were held on January 26 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Barry Horowitz and Steve Lombardi beat Lanny Poffo and Scott Casey, which set up the main event for the second hour of the taping where the Killer Bees beat Horowitz and Lombardi. Rick Rude and Ricky Steamboat had a match that ended in a big brawl that got Hercules, Harley Race, Jim Duggan, and Ultimate Warrior involved. The main event of the live show was not taped for tv, but had Hogan and Bigelow going over Andre and DiBiase (Hogan pinned DiBiase). Andre’s contribution to the match was one minute (of nine total for the match) in the ring, and a body slam to Hogan before almost collapsing. Commentary for this taping was not done live, but rather will be done in post-production due to the fact that they’re waiting for The Main Event first, since these will all air after that sets up the angles.
  
• Dave hears that the decision on what to do with Hogan/Andre at The Main Event will be decided this week once his filming schedule is determined. If he’s available for weekends, he’ll stay champion through the summer. If not, then a title change will happen and DiBiase is the likely beneficiary.
  
• [Stampede] Badnews Allen and Jason the Terrible were fined $200 and $300, respectively, by Calgary City Hall. This is in relation to their brawl in the audience on December 18 that led to a woman in the audience suffering a concussion.
  
• Oregon will be holding a special show on February 16 as a Frank Bonema Memorial show. Bonema was the tv announcer from Portland who passed away in 1982 or 1983. They haven’t announced any matches yet, but Curt Hennig is supposed to defend the AWA Title against their Northwest Title holder at the time, and there are plans for a tag title match, a strap match, and a cage match.
  
• The February 12 card will be the last card by Continental in Knoxville before Ron Fuller’s new promotion takes over the area from them. The situation with Alabama’s territory continues to confuse me.
  
• Nobuhiko Takada beat Owen Hart on January 13 in one of the highlights of New Japan’s jr. heavyweight tournament. As of January 26, here’s the status of the tournament: Koshinaka leads with 34 points (7-1 record), Takada has 31 points (6-1-1 record), Hart at 29 points (6-2 record), Hase also has 29 points. Yamazaki has 24 points (5-2 record), and Yamada is 4-2-1 with 21 points. Kobayashi has 24 (5-1), Saito at 19 (4-4), and everyone else is negligible at the moment. The finals will be on February 7.
  
• All Japan is pushing a big show for March 9 featuring Hansen vs. Tenryu. That will be a double title match, as Tenryu puts up the United National Title against Hansen’s PWF Title (Dave expects a double countout. Other matches will include Jumbo Tsuruta vs. Tiger Mask II, Baba and Wajima vs. Kimura and Tsurumi, and others.
  
• Giant Baba’s been negotiating with the Funks and David Manning about getting All Japan on tv in the U.S. All part of his angling to help the promotions outside the NWA and WWF against the juggernauts.
  
• AJW is building a big match for February 25, Dump Matsumoto’s retirement show. Dump and Yukari Omori (also retiring that night) will face the Crush Gals in a tag match. Also on the card will be a battle royal and Yumiko Hotta/Mitsuko Nishiwaki vs. Bull Nakano/Condor Saito for the vacant tag team titles.
  
• AJW’s annual rookie auditions took place on January 17 in Tokyo. 1500 girls showed up, and seven were picked based on their performance in various athletic and endurance drills. Dave says this is one of the main reasons it’s ridiculous to attempt to compare joshi wrestling to any American promotion. Only the top half a percent in terms of athletic ability are chosen for training in the first place, and then “they train them like spartans from the age of 15-17 and by the time they are around 22, if they’ve even survived, they are better workers than virtually all the men.” And with the retirement age of 26, nobody stays on so long they feel stale. Then again, that level of training sounds kind of easy to become mega abusive from a 2020 standpoint.
  
• Lots of rumor that NWA’s recent firings aren’t due to discipline issues but due to the company having financial issues. That’s the story those being fired have given. Michael Hayes in particular claims that he and Crockett agreed to a two year deal for $150k per year, but Crockett never signed it and when he pressured Crockett to sign (he wasn’t making money with the contract unsigned), and so he got fired for missing the January 23 show in Cincinnati. Even as Crockett’s financial issues become more and more apparent, they do seem to be recovering at the gate a little.
  
• Unlike WWF, NWA’s weightlifting competition used legit weights. All four guys did 460 pound bench presses easy, then Paul Ellering called to move the bar to 600. Animal failed first, and they threw chalk in his eyes and he bled and was “taken to the hospital” and the whole thing came across well.
  
• The road to Barry Windham joining the Horsemen (not that Dave suspects anything yet) continues as he and Luger are being pushed as a tag team. Meanwhile, Flair and Sting are set to feud.
  
• Dave once again clarifies about Hawk’s line (because apparently he’s still saying it). It’s Neo Maxi Zoom Dweebies, not Neo Nazi Zoom Dweebies.
  
• Crockett referee Jeff Goldberg writes in to correct the record on something. In the January 18 issue, a reader wrote in about the December 26 show in Philadelphia and said it looked like the referee screwed up the finish. Goldberg says he acted as instructed, and Flair would not have congratulated him later on if he had screwed up. He also says readers often blame referees for screwing up finishes, but that’s usually the wrestlers who screw up (or the finish is in fact supposed to look screwed up). Referees can be green just like wrestlers, but he’s proud not to be one of them.
  
• Another reader tells us that his cable company had Bunkhouse Stampede, but Crockett did a LOLNWA. Crockett announced that Sammons cable would have the show on January 23 (day before the ppv). Except they didn’t air the announcement until 2 pm that day, had given no announcement ahead of that time, and Sammons closed their company office for the weekend at noon on the 23rd.
  
• The longest letter this week is all about how Bret Hart deserves a bigger push. Brief version: Vince is making a big mistake by not pushing Bret as a singles star. Even the casual fans buy into him. He’s got promo ability, the ability to make a bad wrestler look good (very important in WWF), and he’d make a great opponent for Randy Savage after an Intercontinental Title change. Give it a few years, Jeff. You’ll get your wish and then some.
  
• Crockett’s apparently going to keep two offices open. The Dallas office will be for tv production, and the Charlotte office will remain as the base for talent.
  
• Mike Rotunda won the NWA TV Title from Nikita Koloff on January 26, then gave the Florida Title to Rick Steiner. Interestingly, Dusty did a promo referencing the Hogan/Andre/DiBiase title situation and said that in the NWA you can’t buy a title. Well, Dave points out, DiBiase offered $1 million to Hogan for the title, so that seems to be the going rate for the WWF championship for a year. Meanwhile, Rick Steiner got the Florida Title for free, which pretty accurately reflects the worth of that title.
  
• World Class drew a crowd of 80 in Houston on January 26. No, you didn’t read that number wrong.
  

THURSDAY: Hogan drops the WWF Title (really the only big story next week)