“Shadow of the Vampire” (2000)
Led by Willem Dafoe’s uncanny, fully committed performance as Max Schreck/Nosferatu, the 2000 horro film “Shadow of the Vampire” is an intriguing watch, especially for fans of film history.
“Moulin Rouge!” (2001)
Deliriously lurid and wildly over-the-top, there aren’t many movie musicals like Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge!”
“Donnie Brasco” (1997)
“Donnie Brasco” offers a fresh yet familiar take on life in the Mafia, anchored by one of Al Pacino’s finest performances.
“Spider-Man 2” (2004)
“Spider-Man 2” improves upon the first Spider-Man film in every possible way. It’s one of the greatest superhero movies ever made.
“Sketches on Standards” – Stan Kenton
Released in 1953, “Sketches on Standards” is an enjoyable easy listen from the usually abrasive Stan Kenton Orchestra.
“New Faces – New Sounds” – Kenny Drew
Bop pianist Kenny Drew’s 1953 debut LP, “New Faces – New Sounds,” showcases an impressive up-and-coming young talent.
“Austenland” (2013)
“Austenland” is only a few steps above a Hallmark made-for-TV movie, but it is still a semi-enjoyable way to spend 90 minutes.
“Cry of the Banshee” (1970)
“Cry of the Banshee” is a so-bad-it’s-good (but-it’s-still-really-really-bad) British folk-horror movie starring Vincent Price.
“The Age of Innocence” (1993)
With impeccable acting and gorgeously ornate details, “The Age of Innocence” is Martin Scorsese’s most beautiful film.
“Ace in the Hole” (1951)
Billy Wilder’s “Ace in the Hole” is a scathing takedown of corrupt journalism and self-serving humanity; a masterful film that is just as relevant today as when it was released in 1951.
“West Side Story” (1961)
Even if the storyline and social commentary seem dated, “West Side Story” possesses so much artistic style that it remains a musical classic.
“Chicago” (2002)
A dazzling song-and-dance spectacle, “Chicago” features great performances and grand visuals, although its Best Picture win is somewhat undeserved.