Chungking Express is easily one of the most underrated movies, from the great director Wong Kar-Wai
Fuzzy Five: Five Movies That You May Not Have Heard Of (Or Just Haven't Seen) But Are Well Worth Buying
1. Chungking Express Released: 1994
Directed by: Wong Kar-Wai
Starring Bridgette Lin, Tony Leung, and famous pop star Faye Wong, this movie features two interrelated stories of love, loss, and has carries time as a predominant motif. Not only a significant movie in terms of Hong Kong's history, but also in that it serves as a milestone in Wong Kar-Wai's career, garnering much critical acclaim and even a few awards. Another great aspect of the film is it's incredible depth in not only creating a great level of philosophies in love and relationships, but also a heavy dose of political undertones. This film is a must see to be sure.
★★★★★
2. Trainspotting Released: 1996
Directed by: Danny Boyle
A masterful and ruthlessly rough and edgy film, this movie is what would kickstart Ewan McGregor's career, and is also the best film McGregor's been a part of to date. In the same vein of Fight Club in terms of representing the anti-mainstream philosophy and culture, be forewarned that there are some pretty graphic drug scenes in this movie, as the film primarily deals with Renton (McGregor) and his friends all deal with their heroin use, and in the case of Renton, attempting to overcome it. Very, very highly recommended, if nothing else for its stellar storytelling and poignant cinematography.
★★★★★
3. Before Sunset Released: 2004
Directed by: Richard Linklater
In what's probably the best romantic dramedy since When Harry Met Sally, Before Sunset serves as the sequel to Before Sunrise, which came out in 1995. What makes this movie so special is the chemistry between Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy) is pure magic, as each one of them struggles to come to terms with their lives and love, and how their philosophies have consequentially changed since they last met. An incredibly touching story, that has probably some of the best screenwriting seen on film for years (try to think of another movie that's successful despite being essentially an 80 minute conversation).
★★★★★
4. Love Me If You Dare Released: 2003
Directed by: Yann Samuell
While not even coming remotely close to replicating the critical acclaim or success that Amelie enjoyed, this was still an thoroughly enjoyable, albeit disturbing and well made film. Essentially a life story following a couple (played by Guillaume Canet and Marion Cotillard) who's relationship revolves around their continuous dares, the game becomes increasingly risky to outrageous points. This movie is much more enjoyable when not taken literally, as you'll otherwise be fearful or merely frustrated by the characters, but in understanding the general message of undying love, this is a very sweet and loving tale.
★★★★¾
5 (tie). Punch-Drunk Love Released: 2002
Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson
Along the same vein as Love Me If You Dare, Punch-Drunk Love is yet another film that works well in the framework that it is not taken so literally. Essentially a film about "broken love," this movie investigates the relationship of a couple who are both relatively socially inept, with Berry Egan's (Adam Sandler) problems revolving mainly around the stress of having seven verbally abusive sisters, and an equally awkward love interest in Lena Leonard (Emily Watson). An admittedly strange film, but exceptionally beautiful, with a wonderful performance from each of the actors, especially Adam Sandler who shows that he can do a lot more than the shady one-liner comedies. This film also benefits from a brilliant soundtrack provided by Jon Brion, who also did the soundtracks for Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind, Magnolia, and I ♥ Huckabees. Very highly recommended.
★★★★★
Editor's note: The reason why this movie is ranked lower than Love Me If You Dare, despite receiving a higher ranking, is because Love Me... was a much less popular film, while Punch Drunk Love was more accessible.
5 (tie). Secretary Released: 2002
Directed by: Steven Shainberg
This is the movie that appropriately enough put Maggie Gyllenhaal on the map, in her wonderful portrayal of Lee Holloway, a very troubled young woman who, in search of herself, becomes a secretary in a law firm. During the course of working there, she begins to develop interest in her demanding boss, E. Edward Grey (James Spader), which complicates an already existing relatively unsatisfying relationship with someone from her high school. As Lee and Mr. Grey continue to work together, their relationship soon develops into a sadomasochistic one, as Mr. Grey finds that he also has feelings for Lee. Hilarious, yet gripping and smart, this is an outstanding movie just for the sake that it's able to walk the line and never overstep any boundary. Provocative and very well acted by all involved, this movie's graphic nature is surely not for anyone who would feel uncomfortable with the notions presented in the plot of this film. For anyone who can get past that though, this movie is surely a treat.
★★★★¾
Others worth mentioning:
About Schmidt ★★★★¾
Coffee and Cigarettes ★★★★¼
Happiness ★★★★★
I ♥ Huckabees ★★★★½
In The Company of Men ★★★★½
Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels ★★★★¼
One Hour Photo★★★★¼
Rushmore ★★★★½
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