Several months ago I wrapped up my year-by-year look at the films of the 1980s. Instead of just falling in line and jumping to the 90s, I thought I would skip a decade and save it for later. Today I starting my look at the 2000s from a Phenomenal 5 perspective. The year 2000 was a very intriguing movie year especially for the ladies. A number of ‘Girl Power’ stinkers popped up (“Bring It On”, “Coyote Ugly”, “Charlie’s Angels”), but we also got several strong and memorable female leads (Juliette Binoche in “Chocolat”, Julia Roberts in “Erin Brokovich”, Ellen Burston in “Requiem for a Dream”).

But it was also a very strong year for some of Hollywood’s biggest actors as today’s list will show. Overall it was a year rich with variety so I wouldn’t call this the definitive list. But still, there is no denying that these five movies from the year 2000 were nothing short of Phenomenal.

#5 – “O Brother, Where Art Thou”

Whenever is see “written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen” my enthusiasm shoots through the roof. In 2000 the filmmaking brothers gave us a deep south action comedy set during The Great Depression. So many things contribute to this film’s success. The impeccable locations brought through the film’s Oscar nominated cinematography. The period perfect music. Great performances from Clooney, Turturro, and Nelson. And of course that razor-sharp Coen brothers humor. It all makes for a fabulously funny experience.

#4 – “The Patriot”

Many arguments could be made that Rolland Emmerich’s “The Patriot” deals too heavily in melodrama. Some critics have griped about its historical inaccuracies. Both criticisms may have merit but that doesn’t stop the film from being a rousing and emotional experience. “The Patriot” has its big action moments and a truckload of drama, but at the heart is a relationship between a war-weary father scarred from his past and his seven children. The Revolutionary War swirls in the background and it often comes more front and center, but ultimately it’s Gibson’s conflicted and tormented character that wins me over.

#3 – “Memento”

Christopher Nolan has established himself as one of the most ambitious and compelling working directors. His mind-bending projects stand out for taking chances and always trying something new and fresh. That exact same approach is what earned him attention in 2000 when he released “Memento”. Everything about the film is unique. Even its structure stands out. It tells its story through two timelines visually differentiated – one is in color, the other in black-and-white. Nolan weaves together what could have been an utter disaster. Instead it is a true gem and the launching point of a great filmmaker’s career.

#2 – “Cast Away”

It’s hard to verbalize my fascination with this movie. I remember first seeing it and being so intensely engrossed in its story of a man stranded on a deserted island. But the movie gives us more than that. There is also a deep flowing emotional undercurrent that gives an interesting weight to everything we see. Tom Hanks is fabulous both in his physical transformation and in humanizing the many struggles his character faces. For the majority of the film there is no one else but Hanks and he never loses the audience. It is truly brilliant work in a brilliant movie.

#1 – “Gladiator”

No movie of 2000 sucked me in, excited me, or left as big of an impression as Ridley Scott’s period epic “Gladiator”. For me “Gladiator” encapsulates why cinema is such a powerful and potent medium. Scott is able to transport us back to the Roman Empire. The action sequences are both brutal and beautiful. The story is exciting and multifaceted. It’s a story of loss. It’s a story of survival. It’s a story of vengeance. And then there is the rugged and charismatic performance from Russell Crowe – perfectly cast and perfectly in tune with his character. It’s such a phenomenal movie and for me it was the clear #1 for the list.

So there are five phenomenal movies from the year 2000. What say you? There were several great films that I hated to leave off. Would they make your list? Please take time and share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Don’t you love how movies can sweep you away to new, interesting, and imaginative places? Don’t you love being transported to cool and unusual locations brought to life through the power of visual creativity? Yep, me too and today’s Phenomenal 5 is spotlighting five great movie locations. Originally this was an insanely broad list so I first narrowed it down to movie cities. Then to narrow my search even more I decided to look at cities I would like to visit. For that reason places like Gotham City (which would have been my #1) doesn’t make the cut. Just too much crime. But there are plenty of movie cities worth visiting so I wouldn’t call this the definitive list. But there is no denying that these five movie cities are nothing short of phenomenal.

#5 – Asgard (“Thor”)

Being a comic book guy Asgard has long been an intriguing place. Seeing it brought to life in Marvel Studios’ 2011 film “Thor” made it all the more attractive. Asgard is pure visual splendor – a capitol city for the gods. The pomp, the gold, the rainbow bridge – how can you not be drawn to such a celestial sight? Now being a simple lowly little human I probably wouldn’t get the royal treatment, but that doesn’t mean the visit to Asgard wouldn’t be incredible.

#4 – Bedford Falls (“It’s a Wonderful Life”)

Nothing captures that heartwarming, idyllic, small town charm quite like Bedford Falls. Well, aside from mean old Mr. Potter. The quaint New York town from Frank Capra’s perennial classic features so many elements that are all but gone in today’s society. But for me I wouldn’t want to visit Bedford Falls as it would be today. Instead I want to visit the exact time and place we get in the film. I want to take the walk down the main street. I want to sit at the train station. I want to buy ice cream at Mr. Gower’s store. How can you not want to visit Bedford Falls?

#3 – Toontown (“Who Framed Roger Rabbit”)

I have to admit, sharing spaces with cartoon characters could be a little jarring at first but wouldn’t it be crazy fun? I think at first I may have the same reaction as Bob Hoskins. Toontown does look a bit overwhelming. But just think of shooting the breeze with Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse, Tweety, Huckleberry Hound, Dumbo, and of course the sizzling Jessica Rabbit. Fabulous! Toontown would be an absolute blast although it certainly looks like a place I would want to visit but not live.

#2 – Emerald City (“The Wizard of Oz”)

Located somewhere over the rainbow and at the end of the yellow brick road lies the magical emerald city from the 1939 Victor Fleming classic. Perhaps the most iconic city in movie history, Emerald City is also the place of mystery and answers for young Dorothy and her group of friends. I happen to like the color green which is a good thing. In Emerald City green is everywhere. It’s a city with such renown I would have to visit. But there is one thing that keeps it from being tops on this list – it’s just a bit too weird.

#1 – Rivendell (“The Lord of the Rings”)

Cities, towns, and villages of Middle-Earth could probably find several places on this list. Minas Tirith, The Shire, just to name a couple. But the one place that always stood out for its unmatched beauty and elegance with the elven outpost of Rivendell. From its wooded mountain backdrop to the beautiful waterfalls that run through and around it, Rivendell’s glory is beyond words. The architecture lies in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings, and a simple walk through the city would be an amazing experience. The elves aren’t always socially outgoing and I’m not too keen on their choice of foods, but in terms of cities I would love to visit, Rivendell is #1.

So what do you think of my choices (and reasons behind them)? See any I missed? Please take time to share your thoughts on great movie cities worth visiting. I would love to hear them.

With the buzz for Star Wars growing as the new film approaches, I thought it would be cool to sprinkle in a few Star Wars related Phenomenal 5 lists leading into “The Force Awakens”. To start it off I wanted to look at one of the more unique things about the franchise – lightsaber duels. Whether it is the Jedi or Sith, lightsabers and the cool folks who use them have become a staple and a key component to the mythology. So today I’m spotlighting five of the very best lightsaber duels. Now with so many Star Wars opinions out there I wouldn’t call this the definitive list, but there is no denying that these five duels are nothing short of phenomenal. (Some spoilers included)

#5 – Yoda vs Count Dooku (Episode 2: Attack of the Clones)

This is certainly a lightsaber duel that lacks the weight of the others on this list, but Yoda’s encounter with Count Dooku deserves its place here. Obviously the duel wins points just for the fact that we finally get to see Yoda do more than lift an X-Wing out of a swamp. Actually we see the Jedi Master do ALOT more. Yoda sets aside his cane, pulls out his Yoda-sized lightsaber, and unleashes an offensive barrage of strikes, slashes, and flips. Afterwards he grabs his cane falling back into his humble, low-key image. I still remember the wild reaction this duel received from the theater crowd.

#4 – Obi-Wan vs Darth Vader (Episode 4: A New Hope)

When comparing the lightsaber duels on this list this is the one that is the least impressive in terms of visual flare and physicality. But it is impossible to dismiss the gravity of this duel and how it effects the events that would follow. With young Luke Skywalker watching from a distance, Obi-Wan buys his comrades time to escape the Death Star by sacrificing himself to his old friend and former apprentice Darth Vader. The duel sent the Star Wars story in several new directions and the prequel trilogy added to it a new level of importance. It is truly a pivotal moment in the franchise.

#3 – Luke vs Darth Vader (Episode 6: The Return of the Jedi)

Now we get to a point on the list where any of the final choices could be #1. Here I’ve chosen the unforgettable final face-off between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader as the Emperor looks on, his evil plan working out to perfection. Luke and Vader duke it out on the newly rebuilt and fully operational Death Star and we know at the onset that the duel will be the final one. The three-way conversations, the manipulation, the betrayal, the redemption, the reconciliation. It is all interwoven throughout an intense and incredibly satisfying lightsaber duel between two of cinemas most iconic characters.

#2 – Darth Maul vs Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon (Episode 1: The Phantom Menace)

This is without a doubt and without hesitation my very favorite lightsaber duel when it comes to physicality and fight choreography. It is the most exciting and most intense duel of them all, highlighting the Jedi and the Sith in their prime. It also doesn’t hurt that it includes one of the franchise’s coolest villains, Darth Maul, who is played by the immensely talented martial artist Ray Park. The duel is so fierce and fluid and the end result proves to be a key turning point in the lives of Obi-Wan, a young Anakin Skywalker, and the entire Jedi Order. This is one of my favorite sequences in the entire series and when the hanger doors open, Darth Maul lights his duel-ended lightsaber, and “Duel of Fates” from composer John Williams kicks in, I literally get chills.

#1 – Luke vs Darth Vader (Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back)

How do you beat this epic lightsaber duel? Simple – you don’t. The iconic first clash between Luke and Vader had been building and building. It finally takes place on Cloud City after Vader lures the young Jedi into his web. The duel itself is fascinating and it spans several different locations within the guts of the city. But what is even more fascinating is the conversation between Sith and Jedi, hero and villain, father and son. Yes, it is during this monumental Star Wars sequence that Vader reveals himself to be Luke’s father. I will never forget the shock I felt as a young kid sitting in the theater. Watching an overmatched Luke fight for his life and then be blindsided by a shocking revelation. It is a pinnacle moment in Star Wars and in this incredible duel.

So there are my choices. What do you think? Agree or disagree? I would love to read your thoughts in the comments section. Also be on the look out for a few more Star Wars related Phenomenal 5’s leading up to this winter’s big movie event.

Vacation time is in full swing. Families are packing up and heading to different locales around the world. Airports are buzzing. That got me to thinking about today’s Phenomenal 5 – movie airport scenes. Just take a moment to think and you will quickly realize that airports have been memorable settings for some truly great movie scenes. Today we are looking at five of my favorites. Now I did try to steer clear of obvious choices and movies that spend a ton of time in airports. Movies like “Airplane!” and “Die Hard 2” would otherwise easily make this list. In light of that I wouldn’t call this the definitive list. But there is no denying that these five movie airport scenes are nothing short of phenomenal.

#5 – “Up in the Air”

There are a couple of great scenes in Jason Reitman’s underappreciated “Up in the Air”. The one I’m including today is Ryan’s (George Clooney) first trip with Natalie (Anna Kendrick). The obnoxious seasoned traveler Ryan is like a machine – navigating the airport with precision. Natalie seems like a fish out of water and Ryan takes it upon himself to break her in. The scene is laced with humor but it also does a good job of helping to define Clooney’s faulty and often annoying character.

#4 -“Heat”

“Heat” is a Michael Mann crime thriller masterpiece featuring two of cinema’s heavyweights – Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. There are so many great scenes and one of them takes place at an airport near the end of the movie. I certainly don’t plan to ruin it for those who haven’t seen it, but the film simmers and builds towards this inevitable confrontation. And while the terminal itself is a backdrop, the airport plays a pivotal role in how things play out. It is a fabulous scene.

#3 – “Argo”

The suspense and intensity is what drives “Argo” and its fabulous airport scene. The stakes are through the roof in Ben Affleck’s Best Picture winner which tells the story of the CIA’s rescue of Americans during the Iran hostage crisis. This is another airport scene that serves as the film’s climax. It is clearly injected with dramatic effect but it works. The tension builds throughout the scene and Affleck films it masterfully. “Argo” received its share of negativity, but I’m a fan of it and its great airport scene.

#2 – “Bullitt”

Do you sense a trend here? “Bullitt” features a great airport scene near the end of the film. After several twists and turns Frank Bullitt finds himself on the trail of his chief suspect. It leads him to San Francisco Airport. Once there he must navigate more false leads before ultimately staking out a spot in the terminal. What follows is a great sequence that has you questioning along with Bullitt. Then there is the way it all unwinds. It is a fine conclusion to a true cinema classic.

 #1 – “Inception”

Christopher Nolan’s “Inception” remains one of my favorite movies from recent years. For me it was an unmatched experience. Everything hit the right note to me including the incredible, emotional ending. A key part of that ending takes place in an airport where we see if Cobb’s (Leo DiCaprio) efforts have paid off. It is a beautifully shot sequence energized by a subtle yet effective suspense. And Hans Zimmer’s brilliant music is almost beyond description. I adore this scene and ending. I still find myself moved by it each time I watch.

So there are five truly phenomenal airport scenes. See something I missed? Please take time to share your thoughts or your picks in the comments section. I’m anxious to hear what would have made your list.

Frequent readers of this little old site know that I am a diehard Star Wars fanboy. From my time as a kid seeing them during their original theatrical releases to the opportunities of sharing them with my own children, Star Wars has maintained a prominent spot in my life. So now we have new films on the way, a proposition that both excites me and concerns me. Either way there’s no way I’m going to miss them when they hit the big screen. 

There’s no way anyone could have missed the release of the new trailer last week and today I’m looking at five things about it that has me jazzed beyond words. Now obviously this is completely subjective, but I saw plenty that really has me anxious for December. Some may see things different, but there is no denying that these five “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” trailer highlights are nothing short of phenomenal.

#5 – The New Stormtroopers

It has taken me several viewings to grow attached to the slight differences in the new stormtrooper helmets, but I can now say they look awesome. While nothing will ever replace the classics, these look really cool. But what is even more exciting is the story behind them. Who created them? Who amassed such a army? A new Empire is obviously brewing and it looks like the stormtroopers will be front and center again. I’m happy about that!

#4 – John Williams – ‘Nuff Said

When composer John Williams created the original Star Wars music I doubt he realized the impact his score would have on moviegoers. It has become some of the most exhilarating and recognizable movie music of all time. We immediately we get some of that John Williams magic in the new trailer and it carries on through the entirety. From the quiet familiar opening tune to the big and bold finale, Williams energizes the trailer and gets fans like me giddy with excitement.

#3 – Crashed Star Destroyer

Perhaps one of the coolest Star Wars images of all time (and yes, I know that is a bold statement). In the trailer’s opening sequence we get what looks like a speeder racing across the landscape of what is probably Tatooine. As the shot continues we see a huge Star Destroyer that has crashed onto the planet’s surface. We are led to believe that it has been there a while – a relic from a past war. The shot is incredible. The haze which gives the illusion of distance. The sand covering a portion of it. A tremendous way to start the trailer.

#2 – The Rise of a New Sith

I guess the big question is “Who is this guy”? Or who is to say it’s a guy? Whoever this masked, cloaked figure is the force is clearly strong with them and they appear to be in a position of power. And you can’t deny that they look extremely cool. In past films we have learned that there is always a Sith Master and a Sith Apprentice. Considering that, we have to ask…is this the master or the apprentice? Whichever, this is a character that is going to stir things up.

#1 – Han and Chewie

What a perfect way to end the trailer. The screen goes black and we hear that familiar Han Solo voice…”Chewie…”. Then we see them side by side as Han says “We’re home” and Chewie lets out a small but smile-inducing roar. Han has always been my favorite and seeing Harrison Ford back in that role was a thrill. Story wise I’m wondering where “home” is? And Chewbacca has his crossbow while Han has his blaster. Did they retake the Millenium Falcon from someone? Was it the Falcon that they considered “home”? I can’t wait to find out.

So there you have five phenomenal things about the new Star Wars trailer. I’m not sure if I will be able to wait until Christmas! So what are you thoughts on the trailer on the upcoming movie?

Oh what a great year. At the risk of dating myself 1989 held quite a bit of significance for me. It was the year I graduated from high school. It was also a year rich with fun and entertaining movies. For a while now I’ve been looking back at the movies of the 1980s and we have finally reached 1989. As with the years before it, 1989 had a wacky mix of genres many of which featured that crazy 80s personality. Here are just five of the best of them. Obviously with so many films within a year’s time I wouldn’t call this the definitive list. But there is no denying that these five films from 1989 are absolutely phenomenal.

#5 – “When Harry Met Sally”

Good romantic comedies are hard to come by these days, but that wasn’t always the case. 1989 gave us a great one in “When Harry Met Sally”. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan shine during a time when both of their careers were skyrocketing. Rob Renier’s direction is fantastic but this is really Nora Ephron’s baby. She received an Oscar nomination for her smart and witty screenplay which is the true lifeblood of the film. It is filled with such energy and charm while also being strikingly authentic. And it still holds up after all these years.

#4 – “My Left Foot”

Daniel Day-Lewis’ first movie appearance happened way back in 1971. But in 1989 he would rise to the top of his craft with his emotionally-charged performance in the Irish Drama “My Left Foot”. It is a stirring performance in a film that isn’t the most comfortable to watch. On the flipside of that, “My Left Foot” is a movie that pulls you in with its unquestionable passion and sincerity. It is impossible to stop watching once it begins and a lot of that comes back to Day-Lewis. He would win the first of his three Best Actor Oscars and you never doubt whether he is deserving.

#3 – “Field of Dreams”

For many years I called “Field of Dreams” the quintessential baseball movie. Without a doubt, it’s a film that gets to the core of why many of us love the game of baseball. But as I’ve grown older and watched the film more, I’ve come to realize that it isn’t the baseball aspect that makes it so good. It’s the family aspect that gives the movie its strong emotional punch. Kevin Costner is fabulous as a husband and father struggling to keep his family farm in Iowa. The movie has so much heart and a great supporting cast including Burt Lancaster in his final role.

#2 – “Batman”

I still remember the summer of 1989 and the release of Tim Burton’s “Batman”. I remember seeing it in the theater with a packed house of excited moviegoers. It was all we talked about for weeks following its release. Nothing has changed over the years. I still love that movie. Michael Keaton surprised a lot of people (including myself) playing billionaire Bruce Wayne and his alter-ego, the Dark Knight himself. But Jack Nicholson stole the show playing the Joker. He gives us two incredible personas – a goofy, mischievous clown and a maniacal violent psychopath. It is so much fun and it landed during a time where superhero movies weren’t commonplace.

#1 – “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”

Growing up in the 1980s was really great and the movies offered a lot to enjoy. One of the great pleasures for me was the Indiana Jones series and 1989 gave us the last of his movies (Look, I know the “Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” came out a few years ago but who counts it?). I often think the “The Last Crusade” is terribly underappreciated. It is an Indiana Jones film through and through, but it also features a wonderful father/son family dynamic between Harrison Ford and the great Sean Connery. The film is loaded with the signature great action and humor of the other films, but it has the most heart of any of them. Don’t cut this great installment short.

So that wraps up my Phenomenal 5 look at the 1980s. What did you think of this list? Is there a 1989 movie you think I missed? I would love to hear your thoughts. Hit the comments section below and let me know what you think. Now, on to the 90s?