Glazed Cinema

Directed by Chris Columbus and released in 1990, Home Alone follows 8-year old Kevin McAllister who's been accidentally home left alone for Christmas. All by himself he must contend with a myriad of unfamiliar obstacles including the scary furnace and the two home burglars who have an eye on the McAllister homestead. Kevin's mother after realizing she's left him behind tries to race home from Paris to ensure his safety. Determined to protect his home Kevin hatches a plan to ward off the bandits in a battle of wits in a race against the clock in this Christmas Classic, written by the great John Hughes.

Directed by Gabriel Axel and released in 1987, Babette's Feast is a film that follows a French maid named Babette working for two sisters in a remote Danish town. As a refugee of a French civil war Babette is taken in by the two sisters thanks to a mutual friend in France. One day Babette wins the lottery and decides to show her thanks to the town and to celebrate the sisters' late father's 100th birthday with her cooking of French cuisine. It's a film that highlights community and the transcendental power of food in one of the finest films about cooking in cinematic history.

Directed by Wes Anderson and released in 2009, Fantastic Mr. Fox tells the story of a fox and his family who live off of the crops and livestock of three brutish farmers, Bogus, Bunce, and Bean. Fed up with the fox's antics they decide to team up to rid themselves of their shared problem. Mr. Fox, becoming wise to their plot teams up with his friends to ensure they all not only survive, but thrive in a wholesome, charming, and fun animated adventure for the whole family.

Directed by Danny Boyle and released in 2003, 28 Days Later follows a man named Jim who awakens from a coma 28 days after a deadly disease ravages the Earth. As he navigates an empty post-apocalyptic London alone he must learn to survive among the world's infected inhabitants, which are fast, violent, deadly, and highly contagious. It's a film that has introduced a new kind of terror to the horror genre and is among the best horror films of this century.

Directed by Georges Franju and released in 1960, Eyes Without a Face tells the story of a genius plastic surgeon who is determined to restore his daughter's beauty after a car accident led to her disfigurement. Driven by guilt, remorse, and regret he and his assistant attempt to transplant the faces of unfortunate young women while his daughter is locked in his mansion, sedated, and made to wear a mask to hide her true face. A film that delves into some deep themes its as much poetry as it is shocking and horrific, a perfect mix for your rolodex this spooky season.

Directed by Ridley Scott and released in 1979, Alien follows a crew of seven who find themselves on a foreign planet upon intercepting a distress signal while travelling back to Earth. With a damaged spacecraft they find an environment that seems off and upon one of their own getting injured they venture back inside their spacecraft. However, they soon learn that it is not what they left behind that is dangerous, but instead, what they let in. Filled with suspense and tension Alien is a horror classic that is a must-see.

Directed by Lewis Milestone and released in 1930, All Quiet on the Western Front is an anti-war film based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name. The first highly effective and successful anti-war film it utilized ground-breaking techniques and followed the source material with a high degree of accuracy to relay its message. Still relevant and affecting today, it's a must-see for fans of film, film history, and history alike.

Directed by Don Chaffey and released in 1963, Jason and the Argonauts relays a tale from Ancient Greece in which Jason sets sail to find the Golden Fleece and reclaim the throne of Thessaly A tale of grit, revenge, and adventure it's a movie with drama, action, and special effects from a legend of stop-motion animation. Still entertaining audiences today it is among the best fantasy films released in the sixties, at a time when films of the genre were in high demand.

Directed by John Ford and released in 1940, The Grapes of Wrath is a film based on the Steinbeck novel of the same name. Following a fictional Tom Joad and his family the movie follows their move from their home in Oklahoma to California in search for work. Drawn by flyers advertising jobs during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression the hope of a brighter future the flyers offer is too good to pass up. A film told through wonderful performances and rich and beautiful black and white photography, it shines brightly as a nod to a classic novel.

Directed by Georges Méliès and released in 1902, A Trip to the Moon follows a scientist on  journey through space to the moon in his newly crafted spaceship. A movie shot by a pioneer of filmmaking at the dawn of cinema, it's a movie with many awe-inspiring moments and one that would inspire generations of filmmakers, set designers, cinematographers, and special effects artists.

Directed by Frank Capra and released in 1934, It Happened One Night is widely considered the blueprint of the romantic comedy genre in film. Following a newspaper man helping the runaway daughter of a millionaire mogul trying to reach her husband it's got all the usual ingredients of a great rom-com. Inspiring an entire genre of filmmaking it has been imitated and borrowed from, but never beaten, inspiring and entertaining generations for ninety years and counting.

Directed by Claire Denis and released in 1999, Beau Travail follows a Master-at-arms within the French Foreign Legion, named Galloup. He lives for the Legion and strives to be the perfect Legionnaire until one day a new recruit arrives, which raises doubts, questions, and unfamiliar feelings within Galloup. A love story about the Legion itself it is has been heralded as one of the great cinematic works of all time and one that continues to move and inspire audiences to this day.

Directed by Jean-Luc Godard and released in 1962, Vivre Sa Vie follows a woman named Nana through changes in her life in Paris. Grappling with complex themes, introducing new approaches to visual storytelling, and  utilizing daring techniques it's a movie that took audiences by surprise while captivating them. Among the best products in a remarkable film movement it stands out as one of the directors best and is a true French Phenom.

Directed by Carl Theodor Dreyer and released in 1928, The Passion of Joan of Arc follows Joan of Arc through the events of her trial and execution in 1431. Written based off of trial manuscripts the movie is not only historically accurate, but very affecting. Through artistic experimentation and excellent execution it is a true masterpiece of cinematic history that continues to awe and inspire people nearly one hundred years after its initial release.

Directed by Roman Polanski and released in 1974, Chinatown follows a private investigator following a man suspected of adultery. In tailing him though he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, corruption, and shady business dealings. Featuring tremendous performances by an all-star cast and one of the best screenplays of all-time, Chinatown delivers an unforgettable experience that still hits hard fifty years after its initial release.

Directed by Charlie Chaplin and released in 1925, The Gold Rush follows the iconic character of The Tramp as he searches for gold in Alaska during the Yukon Gold Rush. Featuring a love story, charming moments, and lots of laughs, there's a lot to fall in love with in the gem of silent cinema.

Directed by Tim Story and released in 2002, Barbershop depicts a day in the life of a barbershop. A film with a lot of heart and humor it depicts the tradition and sense of community of a barbershop. With a great cast of actors and characters, Barbershop offers a lot to fall in love with.

Directed by John Hughes and released in 1987 Plains, Trains and Automobiles follows two men Neal and Del travelling from New York City to Chicago to be with their families in time for Thanksgiving. As polar opposites the two embark on an odyssey to help each other get home in time to celebrate with family. A holiday classic, it stars two comedy heavyweights directed by a prolific filmmaker to create one of the most beloved comedy classics of all time.

Directed by John Carpenter and released in 1978, Halloween follows Doctor Loomis who is pursuing an escaped inmate of a mental institution. The inmate, Michael Myers has returned to his hometown and has ill-intentions on his mind. Stalking a high school babysitter, Laurie Strode, her Halloween night plans of watching young Tommy Doyle are about to take a terrifying turn. Introducing an iconic character and scaring a generation, Halloween has become a horror classic and a must-watch of the spooky season.

Directed by Herk Hervey and released in 1962, Carnival of Souls follows a woman named Mary, a church organist. Survivor of a recent car wreck that claimed the lives of her two friends, she finds a new start in far off Salt Lake City where she spots a carnival that seems to be calling to her. Eerie, spooky, and very well done, its become a classic horror film and influenced legendary directors.

Directed by Tobe Hooper and released in 1974, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre follows a group of five young adults on a road trip across Texas. While driving they stop to tour an old family homestead and get entangled with a very dangerous family. Spawning one of the most iconic villains in horror history and influencing an entire genre of film, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre has been terrorizing and disturbing audiences since its release.

Directed by Peter Bogdanovich and released in 1971, The Last Picture Show follows three teenagers in a year of their lives. As high-school seniors, they are finishing their school year and about to embark on adulthood. A movie with phenomenal acting, great cinematography, and tremendous execution, it's a movie that has influenced countless directors and is among the best of a great American cinematic movement.

Directed by Johnathon Lynn and released in 1994, Clue is a movie based on the classic board game of the same name. Featuring a star-studded cast and a plot to match the game's themes, Clue is a comedic take on the game. Flopping in its debut, it has since developed into a beloved cult classic.

Directed by Lionel Rogosin and released in 1956, On the Bowery is a documentary film that showcases a seedy section of New York City. Using unconventional techniques it brings attention to the scourge of homelessness and alcoholism of New York's Bowery District. Met with controversy upon release, On the Bowery is an eye-opening documentary film that helped open doors to independent filmmaking in America.

Directed by Aki Kaurismaki and released in 1988, Ariel follows a man named Taisto through a series of misfortunate events in his native Finland. After the mine he works at shuts down for good, he ventures to Helsinki to find work. Once there he meets a girl and some bad luck. Told with dark humor and irony, Ariel is a great movie from an original voice of cinema.

Directed by Merian C. Cooper and released in 1933, King Kong follows a film crew, venturing to the far away island Skull Island to film footage for their next movie. In dong so, however the leading lady is taken as tribute to the island's God, a giant gorilla named Kong. The crew, fearful for the young starlet's safety sets out on a rescue mission that soon gets corrupted by greed and fame, setting off a string of action that will change the lives of everyone involved. Featuring countless camera tricks, terrific props, and ground-breaking stop-motion animation, King Kong is an ageless wonder that still packs a punch 90 years later.

Directed by Tim Burton and released in 2003, Big Fish tells the many tales of Edward Bloom. Edward Bloom is a man who has many stories to tell as he's lived a full and adventurous life. It's a story as much about Edward's life as it is about the reconciliation between father and son. Told by a master of the fantastical Big Fish is an entertaining feast for the senses and one with a lot to offer.

Directed by Sidney Lumet and released in 1957, 12 Angry Men follows twelve jurors who must deliberate the facts of a murder case to reach a unanimous verdict. With a great cast, flawless execution, and wonderful writing and cinematography, it is among the most beloved films of all time and one that continues to entertain audiences to this day.

Directed by Andrei Tarkovsky and released in 1975, Mirror is an art film by one of the great auteurs of cinema. Driven by a narrator, Mirror tells the tale of a man on his deathbed, recounting moments from his life as well as others from his mother's and grandmother's lives. Told through breathtaking imagery, wonderful acting, and beautifully poetic narration, Mirror is an art film all its own and one that is as rewarding as it is thought provoking.

Directed by Andzrej Wajda and released in 1958, Ashes and Diamonds follows an assassin in the Polish resistance. On the night his country celebrates the end of WWII in Europe, he lies in wait for his target. While hiding in plain sight he spends time befriending an attractive bartender and conversing with his friend Andzrej, all the while keeping a watchful eye out for his moment to strike. A beautifully photographed and layered film, it's one of the best films ever made and a gem of Polish cinema, which still inspires moviegoers to this day.

Directed by John Ford and released in 1956, The Searchers is a one of the greatest films ever made by a cinematic master. Following two men, Ethan Edwards and Martin Pawley as they embark on a search for Ethan's only surviving family member, his niece Debbie after she's capturing by Native Americans in a raid that killed her family. A movie with a lot of layers, complexity, and visual beauty, it's one of my favorites and a movie worth experiencing for yourself.

Directed by Roy Ward Baker and released in 1958, A Night to Remember is a film that tells the tragic tale of the R.M.S. Titanic. Based on a novel by Walter Lord of the same name, the film takes a respectful approach to the subject with honesty and care. It is widely respected and its influence can still be felt to this day. 

Directed by Marc Forster and released in 2006, Stranger Than Fiction follows a tax auditor named Harold Crick through a unique moment in his life. A moment defined by a voice, narrating his actions, thoughts, and feelings. A wonderfully layered film, it's an experience I enjoy watching often and one worth pressing play on.

Directed by Steve James and released in 1994, Hoop Dreams follows two young basketball players named Arthur Agee and William Gates. From the eighth grade to college we see their basketball careers develop and what life on and off the court is like for a player scouted from a young age, trying to realize a dream. One of the best documentary films ever made, Hoop Dreams is a must-see for any film fan and a great accompaniment to March Madness.

Directed by Marjane Satrapi and released in 2007, Persepolis is a film based on a graphic memoir of the same name. Using animation inspired by the illustration style of the book, it uses a mix of stark black and white and vibrant color to unfurl its plot. With themes of identity, perseverance, and courage it's an emotionally gripping and poignant tale we can all take something from and an experience well worth your time. 

Directed by Leontine Sagan and released in 1931, Madchen in Uniform follows a teenage girl named Manuela who enters an all-girls boarding school. As she makes friends and learns the rules of the strict school,  she soon develops a crush on a young female teacher. A movie boasting an impressive number of firsts in cinema, it opened a lot of doors for women and the LGBTQ+ community in film.

Directed by George Tillman Jr. and released in 1997, Soul Food follows a family in Chicago, whose ties that hold them together begin to come loose when the matriarch, Big Momma Joe, falls ill. Ahmad, the youngest plans to bring them together again to strengthen their ties with a tried and true solution, the Sunday meal. A story that celebrates the complexities and bonds of family, it's a great pick for the Thanksgiving holiday and a reminder that love conquers all.

Directed by Barbara Kopple and released in 1976, Harlan County USA is a documentary about a coal mining strike, called 'The Brookside Strike'. Showing empathy toward the workers, protesting we get a glimpse of what it means to be a coal miner in Harlan County at that time. Documenting many aspects of the strike, Harlan County USA is an important historical document about labor and human rights.

Directed by Peter Medak and released in 1980, The Changeling is a horror film that brings a fresh look at the haunted house genre. With an eerie atmosphere, fantastic acting, and an intriguing story, it's sure to keep you on your toes. It's a multi-dimensional horror film filled with frights, surprises, and great moments sure to entertain you during the spooky season of the year.

Directed by Benjamin Christensen and released in 1922, Häxan is a film about the history of witchcraft. Acting like a film essay that blends documentary and fiction, it results in an experience uniquely its own. Banned shortly after its release for depicting controversial content, its history is a rocky one. At 100 years old, Häxan packs quite the punch and is a silent era wonder.

Directed by Sylvain Chomet and released in 2010, The Illusionist is an animated film that follows an aging magician named Tatischeff as he travels from place to place, performing for sparse crowds. Upon landing in a foreign land he makes a friend with whom he begins travelling with. Based on a screenplay by a legendary French writer and director, it's a wonderfully animated film that provides a great experience within its duration.

Directed by Akira Kurosawa and released in 1964, Yojimbo is a film about a wandering ronin, who upon arriving in a new town learns of the bad state it's in. Run by two rival gangs, he decides to try and help the town by pitting the two sides against each other. A legendary film made by a cinematic icon, it's a highly entertaining film for any film fan.

Directed by Michel Gondry and released in 2004, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a modern classic blending science fiction, drama, and romantic comedy. A tale about a man erasing the memory of his girlfriend from his mind, and trying to salvage what he can upon realizing his love for her in the process. With a great cast, direction, music, and cinematography there's a lot to love about this movie. 

Directed by Stanley Kubrick and released in 1957, Paths of Glory follows Colonel Dax, an officer in the French army during World War One. After a failed attack that was doomed from the start, three of his men are tried for cowardice under penalty of death. A lawyer himself, Colonel Dax, played by Kirk Douglas must defend his men being prosecuted by his commending officers. A film regarded as one of the best antiwar films, it continues to affect audiences to this day.

Directed by Vera Chytilova and released in 1966, Daisies is a story about two young girls named Marie, living in Czechoslovakia, causing mischief and having fun. This inventive film and product of the fantastic Czech New Wave is a wonder of individualism. Directed by the first female director of Czechoslovakia, it continues to entertain and influence viewers more than fifty years after its release.

Directed by Jim Jarmusch and released in 1986, Down by Law follows three men who are all strangers to each other. Each of them are arrested on the same night and thrown in a jail cell together. This deadpan gem follows them as they bump heads, bond, and plot their escape to freedom together.

Directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1975, Jaws is a legendary film about a beach front community terrorized by a shark around the 4th of July holiday. Iconic in so many ways, Jaws has been entertaining audiences and influencing filmgoers for over four decades.

Directed by Marc Singer and released in 2000, Dark Days is a documentary film that follows a group of homeless people living in the subway tunnels beneath New York City. A tight knit community, each comes up to the surface to find food and money and retreats back to be home in the safety of darkness. An uplifting documentary with quite the story to tell both on and off screen, its a highly regarded documentary and one that is well worth pressing play.

Directed by John Carpenter and released in 1988, They Live tells the story of an out of work drifter, who finds construction work in Los Angeles. Befriending a man named Frank he finds a home in a shantytown and a pair of sunglasses. When he tries the shades on however, he finds they do more than just protect his eyes from the sun. A science fiction gem, They Live is an entertaining watch for any movie night.

Directed by Michael Haneke and released in 2009, The White Ribbon tells the story of a German village plagued by seemingly random accidents that become more intense over time. Coinciding with the arrival of the Baron and Baroness, the town adapts with a watchful eye as to who is behind the acts. Winner of the prestigious Palme D'Or, The White Ribbon is among the best movies released in the past fifteen years.

Directed by Benh Zeitlin and released in 2012, Beasts of the Southern Wild tells the story of a young girl named Hushpuppy and her dad Wink. Residing south of New Orleans in a community called the Bathtub, their way of life is threatened by an incoming storm, sending the residents on an odyssey and a fight for survival. Inspiring audiences since its release, it's a unique, hopeful, yet cautionary tale of the modern age.