Essential Movies That Deserved All the Hype - A Seoer’s Perspective

When it comes to movie-watching, I often find myself recommending films that truly stood the test of time and exceeded the hype surrounding them. In this article, I'll be highlighting a few such movies that I think are a must-watch for anyone who appreciates well-crafted storytelling and great acting.

Forest Gump, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, and Glory

If you're seeking a proper movie experience without the melodrama, there's a long list of films I'd highly recommend. Some of my top picks include:

Forest Gump: This 1994 film brilliantly showcases the life of a kind-hearted simpleton in an era marked by significant changes and events in American history. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest: Released in 1975, this film delves into the bureaucratic and oppressive nature of mental institutions and the redemptive power of human connection. Glory: Directed by Edward Zwick, this 1989 film focuses on the efforts to form an all-Black unit during the American Civil War, marking a significant step in African American representation in the military.

The Matrix and Jurassic Park: Pioneers of Visual Spectacle

While the above films are for those who prefer a narrative subtler and more contemplative, there are also movies like The Matrix (1999) and Jurassic Park (1993) that pushed the boundaries of visual effects and storytelling. The Matrix

When it was first released in 1999, The Matrix revolutionized the use of CGI in filmmaking, breaking barriers and introducing many techniques that have since become standard in the industry. Director Lana Wachowski's vision and timeliness with the release were masterful, making it a must-watch for fans of futuristic sci-fi.

Jurassic Park (1993), on the other hand, was a milestone in visual effects, particularly through the groundbreaking work by Industrial Light Magic. Steven Spielberg’s direction was flawless, bringing dinosaurs to life in a way that was both terrifying and awe-inspiring. For any fan of creature features, this film is a true classic.

Kaththi: A Hype-Satisfying Hit

One movie that I give a special mention for is Kaththi (2012) directed by Murugadoss and starring Vijay. Released after the blockbuster hit Thuppaki (2010), the expectations for Kaththi were sky-high. Post-release, reviews poured in with overwhelmingly positive feedback, and it completely satisfied audiences from all genres. The movie’s compelling plot, fantastic performances, and well-executed action sequences took everyone by surprise and lived up to the hype.

URI: A Powerful and Inspirational Story

No discussion on highly-regarded films would be complete without mentioning URI: The Pervez Malik Story (2019). This film is a powerful and inspiring tale of India’s counter-terror operations, with an impeccable cast, superb direction, and a message that resonates on a macro and micro level. URI not only chronicled an unfortunate terrorist attack but also showcased the bravery and sacrifices of war heroes and their families.

Incidentally, it's worth noting that the Indian film industry, particularly in Malayalam, boasts some of the most genuine storytelling and acting prowess. Films like Pema96, Solovikramadityan, Bangalore Days, Etc., and more are highly recommended to fans of authentic cinema. These movies are a tribute to the talented artists who bring complex characters and stories to life.

Finally, the Hindi film industry, although not the focus here, does deserve mention for its mastery in remakes of Telugu and Tamil movies. Nonetheless, it's clear that some talented actors like Manoj Bajpayee, Raj Kumar Rao, and K. K. Menon should be given more leading roles to showcase their incredible talent. Some of their noteworthy films include Mukhbazz and Aligarh.