#10 - Syriana
Now I have never seen this movie but I have listened to the soundtrack and let me tell you — that piano version of the main theme is the shit! Go listen to it now! Alexandre Desplat was insane for this!
#9 - Citizen Kane
According to Orson Welles, the jump scare with the parakeet was included to prevent audiences from falling asleep during the movie. That did not work with me. I did fall asleep. But that’s because I am an old soul. That said, points for homoeroticism between Leland and Kane. And, of course, ya know, the cultural impact of this movie.
#8 - Capote
Philip Seymour Hoffman (may he rest in peace) had an incredible performance that won a well-deserved Oscar, but what’s most memorable for me is his accent as Capote. Some nights I watch that WIRED accent coach video clip about it. Will say, if I recall correctly, the movie could’ve done better on acknowledging Capote’s sexuality as opposed to a general vagueness but then again, that is the usual modus operandi for movies about famous openly gay people whose accomplishments weren’t in the gay rights movement (see Imitation Game). But that accent tho!
#7 - Broadcast News
My friends will hate me for this but I didn’t enjoy this movie as much as I thought I would! Ordinarily I love plotless movies but this one didn’t stick with me. That said, Holly Hunter was the absolute cutest in this !!! Every single outfit is, as the kids said but no longer say, on point! Jane is also a very relatable character — in love with a charming douche, has emotional crises, wants to have it all, et cetera. I like how she didn’t end up with anyone at the end. Life is never that neat!
#6 - Sweet Smell of Success
Another movie I haven’t seen but from what I know, it’s not just gay, but hand in unlovable hand gay. Classic! Love that. One day I will actually watch it.
#5 - All the President’s Men
The cultural impact of “Follow the money” cannot be understated. We also can’t understate the fact that this movie confirmed it is kinda gay for two men to be working together in close proximity. The inherent eroticism in solving a mystery! Also, and most importantly, fuck Dustin Hoffman. Robert Redford though, he can stay. Mostly because of Watchmen on HBO.
#4 - The Pelican Brief
You know this movie. I know this movie. We all love Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington. Literally what else can I say except that it’s streaming on HBO Max so you can watch it tonight right after you finish reading this?
#3 - Network
Not only did this movie predict the downward spiral of cable news and political media in general, but Faye Dunaway in this movie is why I have an unfortunate attraction to very mean, blonde Republican women. But for real, if you haven’t seen this movie and are a fan of hating on the “mainstream media” or whatever libs call it to differentiate themselves from the conservatives who also hate the media but for different reasons, give it a watch. And then watch something more lighthearted, like the Pelican Brief.
#2 - Spotlight
Three words: Rachel McAdams Build-a-Bear. Build-a-Bear counts as one word.
“Honorable” Mention - The Paper
I haven’t seen this movie but Maggie Haberman likes it so I am obligated to mention it, as part of my commitment to supporting MILFs no matter who they are. On that note,
Honorable Mention - The Devil Wears Prada
MILF Rights!!!!!!!
#1 - His Girl Friday
This movie has it all: Cary Grant, divorced couple with a lot of UST, people being dubiously ethical in order to further their careers, fast talking, chain smoking, period typical racism, technically a gender-bent character, fourth-wall breaking, and Rosalind Russell. Incredibly sexy. Go watch it.