You know you've got something special when the movie in question not only perfectly parodies some of the more common tropes in fairy tales but at the same time pulls everything off so well as to be one of the best pieces in the genre in its own right. The Princess Bride has everything you could possibly want in a story: "fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." - it is one of those rare times where a movie really does have "something for everyone." It's goofy, cliche and silly but all so pitch-perfect and lovingly crafted that you can't really help but get completely wrapped up in the story. Perfect cast, perfect score and one of the most quotable scripts in movie history combine for one of the most lovable films of all time. Watch it immediately if you haven't seen it (though, to be honest, I find that inconceivable).
Runner Up: Spaceballs
Honorable Mention: Predator
Album of the Year
Is there really any doubt about this one? Appetite for Destruction is the ultimate "80's" album and without a doubt the best thing ever produced by a "hair metal" band by a long shot. What can I really say about this album? It's the perfect example of how to write pop songs without sacrificing any aggression or edge in place of overly-processed "sugar." Whether it's everybody's favorite power-ballad "Sweet Child O' Mine" or something a little more down and dirty like "You're Crazy" every single track on here is catchy as hell and Axl proves that you don't need a particularly pleasing voice to give one of the greatest vocal performances ever - attitude and swagger can take you a long, long way in rock and roll. I think the biggest compliment that I can give this album is that by all indications I should have "burned out" on this album long ago due to overexposure - I haven't, I'm listening to it as I write this and haven't had the urge to skip a song yet. Awesome.
Runner Up: Joe Satriani - Surfing With the Alien
Honorable Mention: Dead Can Dance - Within the Realm of a Dying Sun
I still can't believe I didn't see PB until I was in college. Talk about sheltered. ;-)
ReplyDeleteAnyways, I am presenting you with the The Liebster Award. If interested read all about it here: http://philwife.blogspot.com/2012/03/liebster-award.html
Probably not your cup of tea, but I decided to spotlight you anyways. I hope you keep blogging!