The Keith & the Movies Valhalla is a place of tribute for those movies that I hold in the highest regard. These are films that embody everything that is great about motion pictures. These are the best of the best – movies that I truly love and that stand above the rest. There are many great movies that won’t find their way into these sacred halls. But here you will find those films that I believe personify brilliance in filmmaking, storytelling, and entertainment. These glorious 5 star accomplishments are worthy of special recognition as the very best. Ok, enough of the high drama! In other words, these are my favorite movies of all time, ok?
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NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (2007) – I’m a huge fan of Joel and Ethan Coen and their crime thriller “No Country for Old Men” is one of their very best films. This Best Picture winner features the Coen’s signature mix of blood and grit with their unique brand of dark comedy. The brothers stick surprisingly close to Cormac McCarthy’s novel while at the same time making it unmistakably their own. It’s a riveting hunter versus hunted story led by perfect performances from Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones, and Kelly Macdonald. And who can ever forget Javier Bardem’s work as the psychotic Anton Chigurh, one of cinema’s most memorable movie villains. Everything about this picture works – the sweaty southwestern locations, the subtle and dry humor, the sparse and often times absent score, the meaningful yet gruesome violence, the well-structured pacing. “No Country for Old Men” is the jarring revelation of a new age of violence and crime for a small town Texas sheriff. It’s a case against the pursuit of a quick and easy fortune. It shows the domino effect of one poor but crucial decision. I could go on and on. There’s a lot going on under the surface of this film if you just dig enough. But even without that, this is a spectacular action picture with some of the Coen’s funniest moments sprinkled in. It’s the total package and one of my all time favorites.
No Country for Old Men is the third inductee into the Keith & the Movies Valhalla. But there are more amazing movies to come in the near future so stay tuned. What are your thoughts on this Coen brothers classic? Is it worth the accolades it’s received or is it an overrated picture? You now know my opinion. It’s one of the very best. Take time to share your comments below.
This is certainly a worthy inclusion sir! Absolutely astounding film and my second favourite from the bros, after The Big Lebowski.
Thank you kindly. This is a gem – a flawless movie. I love everything about it.
Great choice Keith, I love this film and it’s one of my favourite Best Pictures. Javier Bardem is just perfect in this, he’s definitely one of the most underrated actors around in my opinion.
No arguments from me about Bardem. He’s a brilliant actor. I also agree about this being one if the best Best Picture winners. Love, love, love this picture.
Great inclusion. No Country is one of my favorite movies, and it’s between Fargo and this for my favorite Coen brothers film. Javier Bardem was great as Anton Chigurh, one of the most menacing villains in film history.
Oh yes! “Fargo” is another great one. I really think “No Country” could be the best film of the last 15 years or so. I think it’s the perfect package – action, humor, style, visuals, subtext, etc. Love it!
Great inclusion Keith. Don’t know if it’s my favorite Coen Brothers film (who can choose just one!?) but still a great film. Love this feature as I’ve mentioned before. Keep it up!
Thanks bro! Really appreciate it. You hint at a great point – the Coen’s have such a great catalogue who can choose? This ones right near the top for me though.
It’s a great movie. Totally worthy of enshrinement. 😀 It’s in my top five all time…
Top 5 of all time? NICE! Glad to see so many feel as strongly about it as I do!
that’s a cool choice. I just did a review on Westerns. Would love your opinion when you can
Absolutely! Heading right over!
Loved it but Fargo would have to enter first. I need to search the halls of Valhalla and see the other gods that you have enshrined.
It’s been up for a few months but only three movies are in. Not because of any long deliberation. I’ve just gotten behind on inducting! lol
I have not seen this one Keith but this films seems well-loved all around.
Yep! Great movie. Knowing your dislike violence I’ll warn you there are a couple of scenes (mainly one brief one) that is graphic. The others are scenes that are violent but wouldn’t turn you off. You really need to give this a watch.
Yeah, I don’t think I will see this one because of that Keith.
I hate that. I mean there are more graphic violent scenes in The Last Stand that No Country. It’s just that one is rough. Maybe someday! 🙂