Time for change

Blogs, like people, are constantly evolving and changing.... I started this blog when I first discovered blogging and I used to reminisce about anything that was wandering through my mind. It changed through time and shall always hold a special place in my heart.

Now it's time to move on.... I'm going to focus on my number 1 passion - movies and in particular Hollywood film. To catch up with my musings, log on to vineethfilmthoughts.blogspot.com.

See you there!!!

A lack of time.....

  We search and search but we can't get enough of it...... time is that flighty temptress who promises much but delivers less than we want.... I learnt to appreciate the value of time in my two years in Oman. I began this blog years ago inspired by my journalism peers; I continued it in Oman because I had a lot to say to myself and needed a way to get my thoughts out of my head and in this case, it went into the cyber world. 

 And then there was a lull.....not because i didnt have thoughts to share but i couldnt put the fingers to the keyboard to express them. The fingers typed out every site i enjoyed except my own blog. Strange indeed! 

 And now the year is passing and I type these words as a means to portray my inability to do so enough. God has guided me through some amazing experiences and what 2008 has taught me more than anything is that people are constantly evolving. Even when we think we are standing still, we are changing. And if we focus on moving in the right direction, we will find that elusive peace of mind we seek no matter what is happening in our lives. 

If I was addressing myself, there is only one thing I would say at this point: 'Embrace the change and become who you are meant to be'.

Best movies of all time

Somehow I just love this list compiled by fellow blogger and fanboy Allan Bacchus... I just have to agree it is a true fanboy list.

Continuing on...
51. On The Waterfront (1954) dir. Elia Kazan
So far the 40’s and 50’s studio classics are getting shunned for more recent and director-driven films. This Brando-method classic still is the defining film for actors. “I coulda had class…” After a higher #8 and then a #19 placement on the AFI Lists, the fans seem to disagree. Placement on the AFI List #19.

52. L.A. Confidential (1997) dir. Curtis Hanson
Few thought anyone could come close to meeting “Chinatown’s” standard for period noir films. But Curtis Hanson’s film indeed meets the mark. This is clearly a special film that will stand the test of time. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

53. Memento (2001) dir. Christopher Nolan
Another AFI no-show turns out to be one of the favourite films of the fans. This backwards brain-twister received many popular top5 votes. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

54. The Exorcist (1973) dir. William Friedkin
This film was a phenomenon in its day. It seems a little dated now, but the fans have obviously given the film respect for its cultural impact. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

55. Die Hard (1988) dir. John McTiernan
There was little chance this film would ever make the AFI list, but it comes as no surprise that it makes the Fanboy’s list. Perhaps the greatest pure action film of all time. Placement on the AFI List – nil

56. Unforgiven (1992) dir. Clint Eastwood
Though Clint had been making films since 1971, it took almost 20 years for him to deliver his first masterpiece, and he’s delivered 2 or 3 more since then. A remarkable late bloomer. Placement on the AFI List #68.

57. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) dir. George Roy Hill
Apart from the extended Burt Bacharach sequence “Butch Cassidy” is invisible to its age. The dialogue, look, and action all seem as modern as it did almost 30 years ago. Placement on the AFI List #73.

58. Rocky (1976) dir. John G. Alvidson
Ok, so what if “Rocky” beat out “Taxi Driver” for the major awards of 1976. The film is still so much fun to watch and as culturally significant as “Taxi Driver.” Another very close call between AFI and the fans. Placement on the AFI List #57.

59. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) dir. David Lean
Alec Guinness is fantastic in this film – David Lean’s first on location epic. It’s a grand spectacle, if a bit soft on the war realism. It’s a great character film too. Placement on the AFI List #36.

60. King Kong (1933) dir. Merian C. Cooper, Ernest B. Schoedsack
Two remakes still don’t compare to the power of the original film. How these two independent filmmakers managed to create life out of a 12-inch-tall clay figurine is still a miracle. Placement on the AFI List #41.

61. The Usual Suspects (1995) dir. Bryan Singer
I can still remember the theatre-audience's reaction to the famous cut-to-black at the end of “The Usual Suspects”. There was a collective gasp, and then spontaneous applause. It’s no surprise the love fans still show for this gem of a film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

62. The Maltese Falcon (1941) dir. John Huston
The title alone can cut glass. The film, too, is a sharp, mean and tough gumshoe noir, with some of the all-time best Hollywood baddies all after the big maguffin – the Maltese Falcon. Placement on the AFI List # 31.

63. Double Indemnity (1944) dir. Billy Wilder
Perhaps the greatest of all of the black and white noir films. It’s a steaming plot twister that established many of the rules of the noir genre. Placement on the AFI List #29.

64. Groundhog Day (1993) dir. Harold Ramis
An ingenious concept executed to comic perfection, and one of the best star vehicle comedies for Bill Murray. If this film wasn’t on the AFI 400 shortlist, it may not have made this list. Cudos to them. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

65. Jurassic Park (1993) dir. Steven Spielberg
"Jurassic Park” doesn’t have the wonderful actors or characters “Jaws” had, and so the film cannot even be compared to that film. But the milestone in CG effects and the tremendous action sequences seems to have warranted inclusion. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

66. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) dir. Arthur Penn
Another milestone film for depiction of violence on screen. The violence shocks us because the film is, for the most part, a happy-go-lucky bank-robbing romp across the United States. Dunaway and Beatty are having so much fun during the film, we can hardly believe our eyes when they are eventually cut down with such violent force. Placement on the AFI List #42.

67. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) dir. Frank Capra
This film is such a classic – and a film with so much optimism that it could only have been made in the United States and by one man, Frank Capra. All his films are a treat to watch and to rediscover. - Placement on the AFI List #26.

68. Amadeus (1984) dir. Milos Forman
This is the second film on the list for Milos Forman. It’s one of the most unique portraits of an artist. F. Murray Abraham won a richly-deserved Best Actor Oscar. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

69. Toy Story (1995) dir. John Lasseter
"Toy Story” set the benchmark for all other CG animated films – the animation bristles with kinetic life, but the character and comic situations jump out of the screen as much as the scenery. Placement on the AFI List #99.

70. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) dir. Elia Kazan
This is my favourite Brando role. It was certainly his breakout performance. It revolutionized acting – it’s one of the top 10 film performances of all time. Placement on the AFI List #47.

71. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) dir. James Cameron
A surprise entry, and a hell of a lot of fun to revisit. Back in the day, I can still remember the gigantic hype surrounding the film. It didn’t disappoint. In hindsight, was it better than the first film? Placement on the AFI List – nil.

72. Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) dir. John Huston
“Sierre Madre” is a morality tale about greed and another early classic from the multi-talented John Huston whose career spanned five decades. Placement on the AFI List #38.

73. The Third Man (1949) dir. Carol Reed
The exclusion of this film from the AFI list is a shock to me. But the fans have brought it back to the list where it belongs. Though the Fanboy list leans more toward recent films, the inclusion of this timeless classic Euro-noir speaks volumes. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

74. Rebel Without A Cause (1955) dir. Nicholas Ray
Another old classic left out by AFI and rescued by the fans. James Dean pours his heart out on the screen in this melodramatic classic. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

75. Stand By Me (1988) dir. Rob Reiner
This is another fan favourite that stands the test of time. It’s a rare mature film that appeals to young boys and girls and adults and for the same reasons. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

76. Touch of Evil (1957) dir. Orson Welles
Often referred to as the last of the studio noir films, “Touch of Evil” was considered Welles’ comeback film. In fact, his Brando-esque weight gain was just one of the shocking elements of the film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

77. Dog Day Afternoon (1975) dir. Sidney Lumet
"Dog Day Afternoon” is one of a string of classic performances from Al Pacino. It’s a remarkable film about a gay man who robs a bank in order to pay for his lover’s sex change operation. Believe it or not, despite the risqué logline, the film is played straight as an arrow and was a critical and commercial success. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

78. Ben-Hur (1959) dir. William Wyler
I’m pretty sure “Ben Hur” gets the vote based mainly on one key scene in the film – the monumental chariot race scene. It’s arguably the greatest action scene ever filmed. By the way, the chariot scene in the original 1925 silent version is just as impressive. Check it out as well. Placement on the AFI List #100.

79. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002) dir. Peter Jackson
So that makes all three LOTR films in the top 100. I can’t disagree that all three are powerful films in their own right. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

80. The Deer Hunter (1978) dir. Michael Cimino
“The Deer Hunter”, other than being very long, is still a powerful film. It’s not just about war, it’s about community, friendship and loyalty. And the Russian roulette scenes are still some of the most intense moments ever put to film. Placement on the AFI List #53.

81. Do the Right Thing (1989) dir. Spike Lee
Spike Lee’s brilliantly constructed and stylized masterpiece is the defining film about racism in urban America. It’s a simmering pot of a rage that boils over in a brilliant third act. It’s one of the great American auteur films of all time. Placement on the AFI List #96.

82. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) dir. Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg’s skills are best showcased in this film. It’s a film about adults made with childlike innocence. It bristles with lively pace and has that heavenly awe-inspiring quality that only Spielberg can create. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

83. This Is Spinal Tap (1984) dir. Rob Reiner
A landmark film that continues to influence film and television today. The fans clearly know how important and brilliantly funny this film is. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

84. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
It’s remarkable to think this film was made in 1937 – before colour film was even widely established. The hand-drawn cell animation has that “Disney” quality that can never be recreated. Other than in short films, it’s an art form that’s sadly losing life fast. Placement on the AFI List #34.

85. Platoon (1986) dir. Oliver Stone
Oliver Stone has as many haters as fans. I’m surprised to see “Platoon” as his only entry on this list., because most Stone fans would say it’s not his best film, but it’s certainly his most important and most significant. Placement on the AFI List #86.

86. Braveheart (1995) dir. Mel Gibson
Before 1995, who would ever have thought Mel Gibson could have directed such a passionate and exhilarating epic film such as this. For me the battle scenes are still the best of its kind and have yet to be topped. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

87. Network (1976) dir. Sidney Lumet
“Network” is a fabulous film, written by one of the great writers for film, TV or theatre –Paddy Chayefsky. A terrific cast round out this American classic. Placement on the AFI List #64.

88. Duck Soup (1933) dir. Leo McCarey
The dialogue in this film zings. The pace and rhythm are fast and furious, punchlines are flung at us a mile minute. The comedy is situational, absurd, and slapstick piled on top of each other. Watch for similarities with the Zucker Bros best work 50 years later. Placement on the AFI List #60.

89. The Sixth Sense (1999) dir. M. Night Shyamalan
Though I didn’t see the twist coming, I personally didn’t think much of it, and so I was very surprised when the film’s popularity built up to astronomical proportions. But I’m obviously in the minority. Placement on the AFI List #89.

90. The Sound Of Music (1965) dir. Robert Wise
This film is a guilty pleasure for many fans. From 1965 to 1970 it was the highest grossing film of all time – and when adjusted for inflation it currently sits at #3. Placement on the AFI List #40.

91. Blazing Saddles (1974) dir. Mel Brooks
Fans chose Brooks’ western-comedy over “The Producers” and “Young Frankenstein”. Please go and check out all three of these great films. Placement on the AFI List #40 – nil.

92. Requiem for a Dream (2000) dir. Darren Aronofsky
Like “Fight Club” “Requiem” has grown to become a major influence on young people and young filmmakers. “Requiem” is tough, brutal and emotionally exhausting, but a piece of cinematic art. Placement on the AFI List - nil.

93. Ghostbusters (1984) dir. Ivan Reitman
“Ghostbusters” is such a fun and satisfying film on all levels of entertainment. It’s hard to believe “Ghostbusters” and “Citizen Kane” are on the same list. Wait to go fans! Placement on the AFI List – nil.

94. The Manchurian Candidate (1962) dir. John Frankenheimer
The original political paranoia film. Frankenheimer was one of the best and most innovative American directors of the 60’s and “The Manchurian Candidate” was his best. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

95. All About Eve (1950) dir. Joseph L. Mankiewicz
“All About Eve” was nominated for all the majors Oscars in 1951. It won 6 including Best Picture. And remember Bette Davis’ memorable line, “Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night". Placement on the AFI List #28.

96. Being John Malkovich (1999) dir. Spike Jonze
It looks like 1999 is one of the most popular years for film fans. Already “Fight Club”, “The Matrix, “The Sixth Sense” and “American Beauty” make the list. That’s 2 more than the storied year of 1939. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

97. Titanic (1997) dir. James Cameron
Though it’s still monumentally ‘uncool’ to like this film, it still gets some closeted love from the fans. Fanboys definitely aren’t cynical. Placement on the AFI List – #83.

98. West Side Story (1960) dir. Robert Wise
I personally prefer this film to “The Sound of Music”, but I’m not complaining. “West Side Story” has so many wonderful and energetic cinematic moments. My personal favourite is the underground dance sequence. Placement on the AFI List – #51

99. Airplane (1980) dir. Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker
No surprise the fans love “Airplane”. It’s no doubt one of the funniest films of all time. AFI voters didn’t have the courage to vote for this one. Watch for it's similiaries to the Marx Bros films. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

100. It Happened One Night (1934) dir. Frank Capra
And last but not least, Frank Capra's third film on this list - a classic romantic comedy infamous in it's day for Clark Gable taking off his shirt. Placement on the AFI List #46.

This is an interesting list of films that I enjoyed quite a lot... we movie buffs totally rule.

AFI RELOADED: THE FANBOY 100 - #1-50
After a summer of compiling over 500 entries, I’m pleased to announce the FANBOY 100.Earlier this year the American Film Institute re-voted their top 100 American movies of all time. The first list, compiled in 1998 sparked a great discussion, several TV specials and got people talking about some old classics they hadn’t seen in a while. This year that list was updated to see how the films of the last 10 years would be ranked and to see how our tastes in culture had changed. Please see my posting dissecting some of the differences and similarities of both lists – HERE.There was much discussion from bloggers and fanboys out there – some more passionate and angered than others. Therefore Daily Film Dose spearheaded another vote, using the same guidelines and same short list of films used by the AFI. The result is what I’ve called the “FANBOY 100”. We can now put rest speculations of how the fans may have voted for their favourite films, in comparison to the AFI’s. The major difference of this list is that the Fanboys were allowed the choice of moving off the 400-film short list for as many selections as possible. The AFI allowed only five, which, in my opinion, cuts down the votes significantly. Funny enough, even with the allowance of as many free selections, all of the films below were on the 400 short list.The survey is still not 100% scientifically accurate. The mere fact that there’s a shortlist influences voters to a large degree. Enjoy and discuss.

1. The Godfather (1972) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
Francis Coppola’s masterpiece still reigns supreme as filmed-entertainment of the highest order. Michael Corleone’s character arc from naïve and innocent war-hero to corrupted sadistic maniac is the highest bar for writing and acting. Coppola made the story into a film about family, so it’s fitting, amid all the gangster politics, the first two films boiled down to a story of two brothers and the fateful decision made by Michael which dooms them both forever. Placement on the AFI List: #2

2 Psycho (1960) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
“Psycho” reached only number 14 on the AFI list, but the fans think it’s number 2. Generally considered the first modern horror film, Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece is a manipulative piece of cinema, and Hitchcock at his most devious. He sets up a road chase film like his previous “North by Northwest” but instead pulls the rug from under us by killing off his heroine midway through the film. We, as the audience, have no idea what to expect next. “Psycho” is often imitated, never duplicated. Placement on the AFI List: #14

3. Pulp Fiction (1994) dir. Quentin Tarantino
The major line-jumping of “Pulp Fiction” is likely due to the voting demographic – which is much younger, pop-culture savvy and modern. “Pulp Fiction” is the definitive film of our current generation. Thirteen years later, its influence is still being felt today. “Pulp Fiction” not only won the Palme D’Or, it cracked the $100million domestic box office barrier (unheard of for an indie film back then) and was nominated for all the major Oscars – and taking one home for writing. What makes “Pulp Fiction” so unique and so influential? It was the heart and soul of Tarantino put onto film – a film junkie who devoured the medium. He was able to make a film on his own terms, his way, with relatively complete freedom. Special films like this should be celebrated as often as possible. The fans have spoken. Placement on the AFI List: #94.

4. Casablanca (1942) dir. Michael Curtiz
“Casablanca” ranked #3 on the AFI, and here it comes in at #4. Therefore it’s safe to say fans and critics/historians alike are in agreement, “Casablanca” is a great film for everybody. In fact, it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like the film. What is the attraction to “Casablanca”? It was a cookie-cutter studio film that rose to the top as the best and greatest example of the entertaining value of the Hollywood formula – a tight script which practically invented the screenwriting template, dynamic and attractive stars (Bogart and Bergman), and top notch supporting players (Sidney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre, Claude Rains). Placement on the AFI List: #3

5. Citizen Kane (1941) dir. Orson Welles
Believe it or not, I received a lot of hate mail about this film. For the many of you who revere the film, there’s a whole lot of ‘anti-Kaners’ out there, but not enough to excise it from the top 5. Kane is still influential, though not untouchable. AFI picked it twice in a row as the top film. Technically the film is brilliant and innovative. Everyone should watch the special features and listen to Roger Ebert’s commentary on the DVD. The film is a magic show. Welles, in his youth, was a magician, and his sleight of hand in evident all over the film. No matter how many times you see it, “Citizen Kane” can always be re-discovered. Placement on the AFI List #1.

6. Schindler's List (1993) dir. Steven Spielberg
“Schindler’s List” is also consistently a favourite among critics and fans. Upon its release Spielberg was praised for maturing as a director and telling an adult story, an important story, without his traditional artifices. Indeed, the palpable realism is powerful, but Spielberg’s eye is always present. Watch for some of his signature movements and compositions hidden in the handheld ‘verite’-style camerawork. Placement on the AFI List: #8.

7. Goodfellas (1990) dir. Martin Scorsese
Scorsese was very popular with the fans. The AFI voters had “Raging Bull” as his masterpiece, but the fans obviously love the Liotta, De Niro, Pesci and Sorvino gangsters better. And I agree. While “Raging Bull” rages with anger and fury, “Goodfellas” is more fun, energetic and audience-pleasing. Who can forget the awesome moment when Henry Hill, who has been narrating the film in voiceover, suddenly turns to camera in his trial, breaks the fourth wall and talks to camera? It’s a risky device, but it’s so natural for Scorsese and only elevates the film to awesome brilliance. Congrats Marty. Placement on the AFI list #92!

8. Apocalypse Now (1979) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
Coppola is the man. Two films in the top ten, and one more standing by at #11. The legend and awe of “Apocalypse Now” grows and grows. It’s the epitome of the pure sacrifice filmmakers give to their films. Coppola took years off his life making it, and though it garnered a Palme D’Or and some Oscar nods, it was the fanboys who helped put the film on its high pedestal. You should all be given credit, and a pat on the back. Placement on the AFI list #30.

9. Dr. Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) dir. Stanley Kubrick
To Kubrick fans, it will come as no surprise that this film tops his other films, including “2001” and “A Clockwork Orange”. It’s the benchmark for black comedies – The "Citizen Kane” of black comedies. Virtually untouchable, razor-sharp and flawless. Placement on the AFI List # 39.

10. Star Wars (1977) dir. George Lucas
“Star Wars’” influence speaks for itself. I need not say anymore. Placement on the AFI List #13.
11. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) dir. Steven Spielberg
I thought “Raiders” might top “Schindler’s” in the fan voting, but I was wrong. If people thought “Star Wars” was fun, exuberant adventure cinema, Spielberg and Lucas miraculously topped it with “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Like Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction”, it’s a film made by a couple of filmmakers who devoured a different type of cinema in their youth – the B-movie adventure serial. Lucas and Spielberg mashed up “Tarzan”, “Buck Rodgers”, “Flash Gordon” and more to create the iconic franchise. Placement on the AFI List #65.

12. The Godfather Part II (1974) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
The second “Godfather” film is the high bar for film sequels. In Part II the film turns even darker than the somber ending of the first film. Michael Corleone has morphed into a sadistic killer and an unemotional robot. There is very little semblance of the same character we were introduced to in the first film. Perhaps the most remarkable scene in the film is the second to last scene, when Coppola flashes back to the dinner table scene where we see Connie meet Carlo. Not only do we get to see Sonny again, but we get to see Michael before he was corrupted and tempted by the dark side. And we’re also reminded of one of the biggest ‘what ifs’ in cinema history. What if Brando reprised the role as Vito Corleone for that scene? We can only dream. Placement on the AFI List #32

13. Taxi Driver (1976) dir. Martin Scorsese
“Taxi Driver” was Scorsese’s major breakthrough film. Though “Mean Streets” and “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” brought him critical attention, Scorsese became a household name with “Taxi Driver”. The film works because of the trifecta of talent – Scorsese, Robert De Niro and Paul Schrader. It’s the definitive film for cinematic loners. Placement on the AFI List #52

14. Jaws (1975) dir. Steven Spielberg
“Jaws” was a sensation in 1975. Not only was it then the most successful film of all time, it gave birth to the summer blockbuster tent pole films that now finance practically everything in mainstream Hollywood. Under immense pressure and stress of a skyrocketing budget, schedule delays, a mechanical shark that didn’t work and a doubting studio, Spielberg, like Coppola in “Apocalypse Now” put his creativity to the test and came out a winner. Placement on the AFI List #56.

15. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) dir. Frank Darabont
There’s a reason “Shawshank” is tied for the top-rated film on the IMDB, just about everybody loves the film. Darabont’s interpretation of Stephen King’s short story is part prison film, part Capra fantasy. Morgan Freeman’s earnest voiceover sets the tone early, but it’s the surprising second act turn that elevates the film to greatness. Though it was nominated for seven Oscars, the film wasn’t really discovered by the public until its video release. Word of mouth quickly turned this film into a classic.

16. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) dir. Milos Forman
Like “Shawshank”, just about everybody loves “Cuckoo’s Nest.” It’s a simple story so thoroughly entertaining and satisfying with solid star-making performances, dramatic plot twists and an ample dose of the 50's/60’s rebellious attitude. Aside from the anchor elements of Ken Kesey’s novel, Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher, for me, the heart of the film is ‘Chief’ the gentle giant mute who ends the film with possibly the most tearjerking yet uplifting endings of all time. It brings chills to my skin each and every time I watch it. Placement on the AFI List #33.

17. Silence of the Lambs (1991) dir. Jonathan Demme
A slew of serial killer films have been released since “Silence of the Lambs” – including three Lector sequels/prequels. Aside from David Fincher’s equally impressive “Se7en” “Silence of the Lambs” still rocks its competition. The film is only one of three films to win all four major Oscar categories – Actor, Actress, Picture, Director, Screenplay. But the fact it performed so well as a genre film at awards season is incredible. Placement on the AFI List #74.

18. A Clockwork Orange (1971) dir. Stanley Kubrick
"Clockwork" is the second favourite Kubrick film for the fans. The success of this film is staggering as well. Despite the family-unfriendly subject matter, and having a protagonist who rapes and murders people and gets away with it, the film was Warner Bros’ highest-grossing film of that year. Is that a testament to the times or the power of the film? A bit of both I suspect. Few films and filmmakers since have been able to make such subject matter a commercial success. Placement on the AFI List #70.

19. Rear Window (1954) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
This comes as no surprise to me that “Rear Window” is the second favourite Hitchcock film for the fans. “Vertigo” is revered by the international critics, but “Rear Window” trumps “Vertigo” as popular cinema. The concept is so simple and effective – a wheelchair bound emasculated man has only a window through which to view and interact with society. We all can relate to Jimmy Stewart in the film because there’s a voyeur in all of us. Placement on the AFI List #48.

20. The Wizard of Oz (1939) dir. Victor Fleming
The name “The Wizard of Oz” has so much cache it was an almost automatic inclusion on the list. It is a wonderful film, and the top musical on the list. But it’s not the musical numbers that make the film great – it’s the fantastical new world Dorothy enters, perfectly represented by the famous door opening transition from black & white to colour. Placement on the AFI List #10.

21. Empire Strikes Back (1980) dir. Irvin Kirschner
This is the most telling entry. In the AFI List “Star Wars” placed #13 – “Empire Strike Back” was non-existent. Clearly the voters (critics, historians etc) lumped all the “Star Wars” into one and named the first film as the best. Now “Empire” gets to be represented as a separate and distinct ‘great’ film unto its own. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

22. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982) dir. Steven Spielberg
After so many years “E.T.” still captures the fans' hearts as a story about a friendship between a boy and Reeces Pieces-loving alien. Placement on the AFI List #25

23. Chinatown (1974) dir. Roman Polanski
“Chinatown” established its own subgenre of noir films. “L.A. Confidential” is the only worthy rival to “Chinatown’s” crown as the noir-king. An interesting double bill would be David Lynch’s subversive “Mulholland Drive”. Placement on the AFI List #19

24. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) dir. Stanley Kurbrick
Stanley’s Kubrick’s existential sci-fi still divides some people, but at #24, it’s still a popular and powerful film and a benchmark for the genre. Placement on the AFI List #15

25. Raging Bull (1980) dir. Martin Scorsese
“Raging Bull” made a major jump into the AFI top 5, but according to the fans, it’s not his most popular film. It’s as much a violent and disturbing film about domestic abuse as it is about boxing. It’s a tough film to watch, and clearly not as fun or audience-friendly as “Goodfellas”. Placement on the AFI List #4

26. To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) dir. Robert Mulligan
The honourable presence of Gregory Peck anchors this important film about civil rights in the segregated U.S. South. It made many top 5 lists, especially among women. Placement on the AFI List #25.

27. The Graduate (1967) dir. Mike Nichols
Even though we are long gone from the 60’s for the young Fanboy voters, “The Graduate” is still relevant as a statement of the transition period from youth to adulthood. Nichols’ direction is as fresh and fun as it was 40 years ago. Placement on the AFI List #17.

28. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) dir. Frank Capra
Frank Capra’s quintessential Christmas film is seen by new audiences every year. As soon as the film ceases to be relevant to our lives broadcasters won’t play it on television every year. And there’s no indication that that will happen any time soon. Placement on the AFI List #20.

29. Fight Club (1999) dir. David Fincher
This is the second most notable entry – David Fincher’s neo-cult classic “Fight Club”. Most critics and audiences dismissed the film as nihilistic excess when the film was originally released. But for film junkies under 20, it’s grown in stature to be the “Taxi Driver” of their generation. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

30. Vertigo (1958) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
“Vertigo” in critics’ circles in generally considered Hitchcock’s masterpiece. In the recent AFI list it jumped to #9 and placed #2 in the last ‘Sight and Sound’ poll. Clearly fans aren’t as enamored with the film as critics. Placement on the AFI List #9

31. Fargo (1996) dir. Joel Coen
There were many cries afoul when “Fargo” got knocked off the new AFI list. The fans have spoken again and the Coens are represented with a respectable #30. Placement on the AFI List – nil

32. Gone With the Wind (1939) dir. Victor Fleming
Again, some respect for what still is the inflation-adjusted box office champion of all time. Placement on the AFI List #6

33. North by Northwest (1959) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
This is not one of my favourite Hitchcock films, but hey, it’s not my list. Hitchcock’s espionage romp across the USA has some particularly wonderful suspense sequences, specifically the famous and fabulous crop duster scene. Placement on the AFI List #55.

34. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) dir. Peter Jackson
I thought the recency effect of the huge popular franchise might dominate and propel the Rings films higher than this. But #33 is a respectable number for a new entry into cine-history. Placement on the AFI List #50.

35. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) dir. David Lean
A critical fave of the AFI voters, David Lean’s epic just doesn’t seem to have the likeability with the fans. With reduced attention spans, perhaps it’s the 227 mins running time. Placement on the AFI List #7.

36. The Shining (1980) dir. Stanley Kubrick
Kubrick’s horror masterpiece didn’t even crack the AFI Top 100. But since fans are not genre phobic, and “The Shining” is generally considered one of the greatest horror films of all time, it’s not surprising it’s up to #36. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

37. Annie Hall (1977) dir. Woody Allen
This is the only Woody Allen to make either list His other great films – “Crime and Misdemeanors” and “Manhattan” received some good quality vote counts, but just couldn’t crack the 100. Placement on the AFI List – #35

38. Back to the Future (1985) dir. Robert Zemeckis
One of the great fan films of all time gets some much needed respect. Thanks voters for counting this 80’s classic. Placement on the AFI List – nil

39. Singin' In the Rain (1952) dir. Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
This film is routinely considered the greatest musical of all time. The male-centric youth who dominated the voter demographic has something to do with the difference in placements with the AFI list. Placement on the AFI List #5.

40. Sunset Blvd. (1951) dir. Billy Wilder
Fans and critics both love this film. It’s quality noir about the dark side of Hollywood and celebrityism. Placement on the AFI List #16.

41. 12 Angry Men (1957) dir. Sidney Lumet
Sidney Lumet’s chamber-drama is a classic film – essentially an investigative crime film told entirely within a jury room. It’s a brilliant concept executed perfectly thanks to a great team of actors led by the soft-spoken Henry Fonda. Placement on the AFI List #87.

42. The Matrix (1999) dir. Andy and Larry Wachowski
If the sequels had been more successful “The Matrix” would have scored higher. Up until “Reloaded” and “Revolutions” came out the first “Matrix” was the “Star Wars” of the computer/internet generation. Even with the extreme negative reaction to the other two the first film has survived as an influential film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

43. Saving Private Ryan (1998) dir. Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg’s powerful film re-invented the modern war film and established the new cinematic language of war. Every battle scene from here on in will be compared to the first 25 mins of “Saving Private Ryan”. Placement on the AFI List #71.

44. Blade Runner (1982) dir. Ridley Scott
“Blade Runner” has grown into one of the all-time great sci-fi films, standing side-by-side with “Star Wars” and “2001: A Space Odyssey”. Ridley Scott combines stunning visual effects with an existential story about the nature of humanity. Placement on the AFI List #97.

45. The Lord of The Rings: The Return Of The King (2003) dir. Peter Jackson
Jackson’s achievement in making each LOTR chapter bigger and better is a triumph. His use of CGI, trick photography, costume design and all other forms of in-camera special effects to achieve his vision is astonishing. And to think he made them all at the same time. It's mind-boggling. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

46. Alien (1979) dir. Ridley Scott
Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner” and “Alien” is one of the great career one-two punches in cinema. Two sci-fi films, completely different in style – one, a monster film masquerading as sci-fi and the other a film noir masquerading as sci-fi. Genius. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

47. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2003) dir. Michel Gondry
Like “Shawshank Redemption” this Gondry/Kaufman concoction, in a very short time, has become many people’s favourite film. It’s a great film, but the immense popularity of this little gem definitely took me by surprise. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

48. Some Like It Hot (1959) dir. Billy Wilder
Men in drag is classic go-to humour. Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis did it better than anybody. But it’s Marilyn Monroe who’s magnetic and impossible to take your eyes off. Placement on the AFI List #22

49. American Beauty (1999) dir. Sam Mendes
"American Beauty” didn’t make the AFI List despite being a generational-defining film for many people. Perhaps it’s Mendes’ arguably declining work since this debut film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

50. Forrest Gump (1994) dir. Robert Zemeckis
“Forrest Gump” is finally bested by “Pulp Fiction”. But the earnest audience-pleaser actually ranked higher in the Fanboy list than either AFI List. Placement on the AFI List #76.

Tele--Vision

In that somnambulistic state before sleep came to me last night I found myself thinking back to my very first impressions of Tele--Vision. It occured to me that TV has never been an idle pastime even in the early days when I had fooled myself into thinking so. There was something deeper – a deeper thread that links one to the other that we cannot quite explain. Not so much subliminal message as an empathic connection that ties you to what is going on or airing in that cuboid box. It is like a glimpse into another reality, which I guess it is – no matter how much fantasy we think resides there – the fact is that there is no singular reality. The vision that one connects with the tele is one that reaches deep within to stir hearts and minds. The redundant viewer sadly will never get to appreciate that. People find their self-realisation in various ways but not enough find that truth that resides in laying bare all you are to tele-vision. Tears will be spilt, lives will be shaken and it will be living, believe me. Only as far as we seek can we go, only as far as we dream can we be.

Memoirs of the Deep

The Fire Inside

Why is it sometimes we are so weak?
A puppet to the strings whose control we seek.
The fire burns inside, sin so simple but all around,
The solution not earthly or easily found.
The path so righteous is blurring before me,
The Lord only can sustain me.
Forgive us Lord, forgive us all,
For the sins into which we so continually fall.
Let us douse the fire once and for all,
Knowing how many lives we constantly maul.
Let us count our blessings ever believing,
That faith will guide us through, our burden relieving.
Even the toughest path can in an instant be so clear,
That regressive torment cannot hold me or come near.
Let us seek with might but ever leaving,
The rest in hands so wide always receiving.
In wondrous ways, the future unfolds,
Not fire, but warmth it holds.
Ever speaking, making one glad,
Of the grace of the creator, we all have had.
Thank you Father, for what we are and where,
To what we'll be, mould us and take us there.

Reflections of a Strange Flat

Part III Miles Away

A million miles from home,
My legs struggle to roam,
The sun beats down on me,
As far as the eye can see,
Strange voices in a crazy land,
Born out of nothing but pure sand,
To live as one does, dreaming of old stories,
That are kept alive by your own memories,
Far from home am I, so it seems,
Impossible to leave except in my dreams,
Trapped in my own mind,
Fiddler on a roof of a certain kind,
Visions of people and places do I feel,
Nothing ever felt so far, yet so real.
Father, father your help I need,
To ease the pain of distance on which I feed,
Send me an angel or a mirage of truth,
Fill my heart and my sorrows soothe,
Let me forget the miles and see from afar,
The life before me, a new door is ajar.

Reflections of an Empty Flat

Part - II The Silence

Oh! When I see the bareness before me.
How I pray for the hint of company.
The silence is most still even it is the loudest day outside.
The loudest silence I have ever felt.
The emptiness is deathly and it closes in.
Oh! To hate to be in the silence of the empty flat.
But to know that we all live by choices in life.
Oh! How weak is our faith in God.
He can speak to you through a pamphlet dropped at the door.
That brings more joy than you ever thought possible.
Suddenly you are attuned to every little sound.
Almost as if waiting for the silence to be broken.
But praying that the sounds that come are not from creatures hidden.
So you take it upon yourself to put some music in your life.
But suddenly, even though you have heard the words before.
And certainly know some of the songs by heart.
The lyrics have a whole new meaning.
As if you are truly feeling them for the very first time.
You scream out the words at the top of your voice.
As if you are the end to the silence.
Which, in a way, I guess I am.
I find myself talking to me more.
As if the entities could separate, and be the companionship that you crave.
Oh Lord! Sweet God of mercy.
Make this silence grow on me.

Reflections of an empty flat

Part - I Alone

No matter how much you think it.
No matter how much you know you feel it.
You never really fully understand it.
The different levels of loneliness.
I thought I knew it.
I thought I was prepared.
I thought I knew what 'alone' meant.
But when it comes to flying solo, there isn't a manual.
Life throws it up at you.
You pray you know how to handle it.
You feel both peace and pain.
Along the road that is the path of gain.
You can be alone in a crowd.
You can be alone in your thoughts.
Alone in your pain,
alone inside your heart,
alone in your beliefs,
alone in your dreams,
alone in your fears,
But you are never really alone when you have faith in God.
Look for the light in the darkness.
Pray for loneliness to teach you life's lessons,
that only solitude can.
Oh! loneliness, I pray that I can used to you.
Oh! hollowness, I say goodbye to you.
Oh Lord, cleanse my soul.
And give me the peace that the world cannot.
And cannot ever take away.

THE FIVE BEST DAYS OF MY LIFE - Nelly and Shruthi's wedding

Thank you most of all to Nelson and Shruthi for giving me the five most wonderful days of my life. With memories I'll never let go of and a closeness that is impossible to express, Shruthi and Nelly made the celebration of their marriage a time when I felt truly grateful that I had the amazing privilege of calling them friends and family.

I guess these days were really all about family. Like how Nelly and Shruthi always made you feel like a brother or a sister. How Saikat's emotional speech tugged at your heartstrings. How Sharon made you smile and laugh. How Sanjaya made you raise an eyebrow. How ACJ 2004 really is a big family. I think Nelly said it best: "You know guys, what was special about ACJ was that every one of those 90 odd people was unique and they all brought something special to us."

The last five days may have gone by in a flash but there was something to cherish in every moment. Looking back, one can only get teary eyed reminiscing after barely a day has passed. It was simply surreal seeing all of you again and we missed a lot those who couldn't make it. Seeing Nelson and Shruthi together, seeing them happier than you would ever imagine possible for two people to be, reinforces your faith in how beautiful life can be.

I love you both. I feel really lucky to have been able to be a part of this very special time in your lives.

Vineeth