#5: Full Metal Jacket
About: This movie is about the struggles of the Vietnam War and the rigors of basic training. It explains and shows the things that soldiers had to do to survive and serve their country in the war. The movie also includes the problems with the soldiers’ treatment by citizens and the government/military.
Why: I enjoyed this movie. The movie shows the big picture of what the Vietnam War was like with a certain cinematic accuracy that is amazing. The only problem I can see is that the movie has them get it down to such accuracy that some scenes are very gross, bloody, and mentally hard to take. I recommend this movie.
#4: Batman-The Dark Knight
About: Just when Batman thinks he has Gotham’s crime under control, a young villain called the Joker appears. It breaks his streak and puts the streets of Gotham into chaos. Batman, the dark knight, teeters on the edge of hero and vigilante to return the streets to what they were before.
Why: The Dark Knight is such a good movie because of the acting and cinematography. The actors play all their roles so unbelievably well and get very, very into their characters and background. The cinema topography makes the movie feel like a real superhero story. It completely immerses you in Gotham. I definitely recommend watching this movie.
#3: Star Wars Rogue One
About: Rogue One is a Star Wars movie about the mission to steal the plans for the Death Star.
Galen Erso is the lead scientist for the design of the Death Star. Galen Erso planted a weak spot in the Death Star so the rebels could destroy the planet-destroying weapon. Galen had a daughter named Jyn, who later would be the one to go on the mission to get the plans and find the weak spot in the Death Star for the rebel attack.
Why: As a hot take, I think this is the best Star Wars movie. The story and the side additions tie the whole movie together. The emotional connection with the characters, making each one feel important to the story, is amazing. Each person has their own background and own issues, and coming together for this mission is amazing. This movie is highly recommended.
#2: Jarhead
About: Jarhead is a war drama movie based on the memoir and experiences of Marine Scout Sniper Anthony Swofford.
Why: This movie is ranked at #2 because of the representation of what the Marines in the Persian Gulf war had to go through. The movie makes you feel for the Marines and grows a connection with each individual character in the movie and their individual personalities. I enjoyed how each person in the movie was going through their own problems outside of the war. For example, the main character, Anthony Swofford, and his girlfriend were cheating on him. The reasons this movie is on my list go much further, but I don’t want to spoil it. (Highly recommended)
#1: Donnie Darko
About: Donnie Darko is a movie about a teenager named Donnie Darko who often sleepwalks at night. One night, he sleepwalks out of his house, and he sees a demonic humanoid rabbit figure that says the world is going to end in 28 days. When he arrives back at his house, a jet engine has fallen out of nowhere and landed right where he would have been sleeping.
Why: This movie is #1 because it is emotional and enjoyable. This movie drops puzzle pieces to solve the idea of the movie throughout. It has things that a teenager might go through and could potentially be relatable. The big reason this is my #1 movie has meaning behind it. The movie makes you have feelings of relief, sadness, and shock at the end of it. To understand these feelings, you have to watch it. (Must watch the movie)