The Matrix is a standout for me. Every shot feels carefully thought out and planned to perfection. It’s remarkable.
Lee said:
The Matrix is a standout for me. Every shot feels carefully thought out and planned to perfection. It’s remarkable.
The original will always be one of my all time favorites. It’s coming back to theaters for two days while I’m away, and that really bums me out since I can’t see it.
Lee said:
The Matrix is a standout for me. Every shot feels carefully thought out and planned to perfection. It’s remarkable.
The storyboard for it is amazing and closely matches the final outcome.
Lee said:
The Matrix is a standout for me. Every shot feels carefully thought out and planned to perfection. It’s remarkable.
In this thread, people seem to misunderstand what a director does. Great direction is often unnoticed and people attribute it to the writer or cinematographer instead. The director mainly shapes actors’ performances. The best way to see good directing is through the chemistry in scenes with multiple actors. For example, Pulp Fiction and Goodfellas show great interactions between actors, meaning great direction. Take the ‘Am I a clown’ scene. Scorsese directed Liotta’s reactions perfectly. The Matrix, in contrast, highlights writing, special effects, and stunts rather than directing, which isn’t as apparent in my opinion, although it’s still a fantastic film.
The Wrestler really captivated me from beginning to end.
Blade Runner 2049 or Dune Part 2. Tackling iconic original films and crafting sequels that not only match but exceed the original is incredible. A huge feat and nothing short of a miracle. Adapting tricky source material into a focused, engaging three-hour film that both fans and general viewers appreciate is another miracle.
Miller said:
@Grady
Denis is a true talent. Arrival and Sicario also showcase his amazing direction.
I believe he will be recognized as one of the greatest directors when everything is said and done.
Children of Men.
The performances, camera work, editing, design, and characters all come together for a complete immersion into the story.
Mal said:
Children of Men.
The performances, camera work, editing, design, and characters all come together for a complete immersion into the story.
It’s not my number one, but I agree the performances and camera work are exceptional.
2001 The Exorcist The Shining The Godfather Rear Window
Amari said:
2001 The Exorcist The Shining The Godfather Rear Window
It’s tough to choose between the films by Kubrick. I wonder how anyone else could have directed Barry Lyndon’s script without falling short.
Then there’s Clockwork Orange. If you look at any section of that shooting script and compare it to the final film, it’s clear that Kubrick’s direction was simply phenomenal.
@Axel
I haven’t seen Barry Lyndon or read the Clockwork script, just the film.
For me, it’s hard to envision anyone else tackling his iconic movies. There are many films that exist in 2001’s shadow. I think Friedkin might have a point when he talks about 2001’s lasting significance.
I feel the same about The Shining, especially considering some more supernatural elements in the novel. The best scene in the whole movie is the ‘How’d you like some ice cream, doc’ moment, a masterclass in suggestion and great dialogue between Danny and Scatman, showcasing stunning direction.
Banshees of Inisherin has a tight, well-written script that the cast performs flawlessly, enhanced by the musical qualities of the dialogue. Martin truly knows his actors’ strengths and maximizes every shot. Colin’s eyebrows do a lot of acting here, and Martin wisely allows him to linger in those emotional moments for extra depth.
I’d also argue for Grand Budapest Hotel for its beautiful mix of whimsy, heartbreak, vibrant colors, creative set design, and clever use of miniatures while paying homage to other great films.
@CharlotteAmelia
I liked Inisherin, though it felt a bit slow. I loved In Bruges even more.
Grand Budapest is an excellent pick.