:: Must Watch Movies

I love to watch movies, which make my heart warm, eyes wet, bring wide smile on my face or inspire thoughts to reflect on. Here is #IS selection of the best movies, which shook my soul.

Here is #IS Youtube’s Playlist with all must watch movies trailers. 

Have fun.

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2017

Dunkirk (2017)

Christopher Nolan at his best…Dunkirk just kept us gripping our seats with stiff necks all the way through. Not really a “switch off” movie, but definitely an important reminder how awful, random and cruel war is.

Lion (2016)

Thanks to @monteiro for this tip. And what a moving story. Yes, Lion had a predictable storyline, however photography and actors in it were phenomenal. Shocking how nasty some parts of the world still are…

Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2016

Inside Out (2015)

Pixar’s movies are legendary for their engaging stories and animation. Inside Out stands out for another reason: its mind-blowing description of an intensive battle between five basic emotions (joy, sadness, fear, disgust, anger) within each and every of us. A true course in psychology for adults in children’s words.

Sadness: Crying helps me slow down and obsess over the weight of life’s problems.

Waltz with Bashir (2008)

Another animated movie. Another very powerful storytelling of a very very sad and violent event. Waltz with Bashir is a personal quest by its author Ari Folman – an Israeli film director interviews fellow veterans of the 1982 invasion of Lebanon to reconstruct his own memories of his term of service in that conflict.

Ari Folman: After the 1982 invasion of Lebanon, I lost my memory. Now in order to remember, I am looking for those who can never forget.

The Big Short (2015)

A second must-watch movie based on a Michael Lewis book (Moneyball made this list in 2012)  – The Big Short is a wonderful story about a handful of people who predicted the collapse of the world economy in 2007, built on trading flawed financial products, very wrongly set incentives and crooked morals…

Mark Baum: For fifteen thousand years, fraud and short sighted thinking have never, ever worked. Not once. Eventually you get caught, things go south. When the hell did we forget all that? I thought we were better than this, I really did.

More Than a Game (2008)

If you love the game of basketball or not. The documentary More Than a Game can give you a slight insight into how many factors need to work out for you in order to reach the greatness. Your athleticism, your charisma and commitment are not enough. The right teammates who get you and love to share the game with you, coaches who support you and trust you, the right country where your sport is popular and you have a chance to make a real career out of your craft.

Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2015

The Lego Movie (2014)

What a delightful and imaginative movie. The Lego Movie made us laugh, think and gave us an ear-worm of “Everything is Awesome” song. 

Emmet: President Business is going to end the world? But he’s such a good guy! And Octan, they make good stuff: music, dairy products, coffee, TV shows, surveillance systems, all history books, voting machines… wait a minute!

Jean de Florette (1986)

Breathtaking photography of a rural French countryside, moving story and brilliant actors. Human nature and our odd ways of dealing with life is a never ending source of inspiration for moviemakers and this movie tapped into it at its best. 

Ugolin: It’s not me that’s crying. It’s my eyes.

 

Manon des Sources (1986)

Sequel to Jean de Florette is Manon des Sources. If you have enjoyed first part you will end up loving this part, too. You are welcome.

Cesar Soubeyran: [to the villages] Come on, you men! You’re natives like me: tell him there was no spring! Listen: anyone who knew was one, and didn’t tell the hunchback is responsible for his death.

Bicycle Thieves (1948)

Bicycle Thieves is a hidden gem of the world cinema. Simple, yet very powerful story. Watch it and see for yourself. Thanks for a recommendation to our friend R. (and for the movies above)

The Imitation Game (2014)

The Imitation Game was an absolute gem… From an extraordinary cast to its storytelling. I’ve always admired work of Benedict Cumberbatch, but his role as Alan Turing was yet another level. Watching this story had even more charm because Alan Turing spent time in my adopted home – Manchester, UK.

Christopher Morcom: Sometimes it’s the very people who no one imagines anything of who do the things no one can imagine.

Calvary (2014)

A story of this movie is pretty bleak and dark, however it is so movingly narrated that Calvary has made it into this list.

Father James Lavelle: I think there’s too much talk about sins and not enough about virtues. 

Fiona Lavelle: What would be your number one? 

Father James Lavelle: I think forgiveness has been highly underrated.

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2014

Locke (2013)

Tom Hardy and his master performance in this beautifully executed thrilling story. Locke is a problem solver, an engineer. Will he solve tonight’s issues? Watch and see.

Ivan Locke:  I want to know that I’m not driving in one direction.

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Nebraska (2013)

Nebraska – a black and white movie, yet a story told in it, brought a sunshine to my soul. (our souls). Just watch it and feel, if it will warm your heart too.

Receptionist: Does he have Alzheimer’s?

David: No, he just believes what people tell him.

Receptionist: That’s too bad.

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2013

Side Effects (2013)

Amazing actors, superb camera and thrilling drama. Loved it to bits.  Side Effects is one of the best movies I’ve seen this year.

Depression is inability to imagine future.

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Cloud Atlas (2012)

Impressive piece of art. I did not even notice that Cloud Atlas was three hours long. Plus featuring all these superstars in one movie: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant…Just go and watch it, now! Tip: preferably with someone you are truly bound.

Our lives are not our own. From womb to tomb, we are bound to others. Past and present. And by each crime and every kindness, we birth our future. (Sonmi 451)

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The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)

I had no idea when I started to watch The Motorcycle Diaries, what it is about and who are the main heroes in it. It must have been 10-15 minutes till end of the movie after Ernesto gave his birthday speech, when I exclaimed: “Is he ‘Che’ Guevara?” Indeed, he was…I wish to everyone to step on a journey which would transform you. Thanks Alasdair for sweeping me out of my feet with this movie.

Wandering around our America has changed me more than I thought. I am not me any more. At least I’m not the same me I was. (Ernesto Guevara de la Serna)

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in 2012

Marley (2012)

Marley…Blown away. Just watch it. Feel it. The best way to experience Marley’s brief yet powerful journey in this world is with a person/people you love. ❤

You do not have to die to go to heaven, you must live in heaven. – Bob Marley (1945-1981)

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Detachment (2011)

I have watched Detachment movie on 13th September 2012 and boy, did it blow me away. I am grateful to someone on my Facebook who posted a link about it. (I am sorry I cannot remember who it was!)

There should be a… a pre-requisite, a curriculum for being a parent before people, attempt, “don’t try this at home.” – Mr. Barthes

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Once Upon a Time in America (1984)

This movie was recommended to me by my Mum. Once Upon a Time in America is simply a must watch…

Noodles, I slipped…(Dominic)

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The Intouchables (2011)

The Intouchables, is one of the best movies watched lately. Funny, yet very moving and emotional. Thanks to Olivier Blanchard aka @thebrandbuilder for posting this movie on his FB page. I totally loved it and will re-watch it many times in the future.

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The Sunset Limited (2011)

The Sunset Limited is a very deep movie, if you chose to truly listen carefully. Two men, one kitchen, one conversation about life, faith and God. Black vs. white, light vs. dark, faith vs. disbelief.  Powerful and very timely for #IS (22.03.2012)

The light is all around you but you don’t see nothing but shadow. And you’re the one causing it. It’s you. You’re the shadow! That’s the point. (Black)

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Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story (2009)

Gifted Hands came into my attention thanks to friend Imanuel during our Skype chat in January 2012, he mentioned Dr. Ben Carson and that he had a privilege to meet this remarkable man in person. I was so inspired by talk with Imanuel, that I watched this movie the very next day after our chat. Here is the result, Dr. Ben’s story left my eyes wet and made it to must watch list. I did not dream in my wildest dreams, that 2 months later I will be interviewing Dr. Carson for #IS…again thanks to generosity of Imanuel. Miracles…

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J. Edgar (2011)

J. Edgar is movie based on true story of J.Edgar Hoover, founder of FBI. Directed by Clint Eastwood. Main actor Leonardo DiCaprio. What more do you need to confirm, that this is a must watch?;-) Go, watch it! You might find out that there are many secrets, which powerful people hide…

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City of Life (2009)

I have been pointed out to watch this movie years ago by my basketball buddy Andrea. I have watched it only on 11th Feb 2012 and I wonder why it took my so long. Not that only brings me back to my beloved city of Dubai, but it also gives wonderful picture of diversity in this, indeed City of  Life. Life just happens here…

Only when we dream anything can become reality.

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Newlyweds (2011)

I have found review about this movie on The Fox Is Black blog. Watched it on 9th Feb. Loved it. Added it here. Watch this romantic comedy/documentary, if you wish to dive into honest/lovely/creepy situations, which only life can bring. This movie can be accessed only via digital channels -> more you can find out at director’s web -> Edward Burns.

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Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Whoa! I shall never forget 17th January and 4 hours spent watching this movie. Thanks to Paolo Coelho for mentioning Lawrence of Arabia on his favorite movie list. Grateful.

…for some men nothing is written, unless they write it.

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Moneyball (2011)

I could not start 2012 with better movie than, Moneyball. There are times, when you are at the right time in a right place…and there are movies, which you are suppose to watch on certain part of your journey…and if you are on a journey changing the game, go watch it now!

Your goal should NOT be to buy players, but to buy wins…It’s a process.

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in year 2011

Stone (2010)

Stone was not just a drama featuring super cool acting stars but it was also filled with many interesting thoughts about life, truth, love and human condition. Watch it.

They say the sound part comes first. They say, when you experience a spiritual truth, that it comes to you as a sound that goes through you, changes your vibration, gets you back in the harmony. Like God’s tuning fork or something… And then, if you let that happen to you, then you get the light, you get an illumination. (Stone)

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Howl (2010)

Howl this poem has started a revolution and Allen Ginsberg became legendary and influenced many in his generation and even many more generation to come…Simply must watch. Its footnote simply blew me away.

Holy forgiveness! mercy! charity! faith! Holy! Ours! bodies! suffering! magnanimity! Holy the supernatural extra brilliant intelligent kindness of the soul!

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I Am Love (2009)

Magnificent movie! I Am Love will tangle all your senses and emotions. So, authentic and real. I totally admire those who were shooting such details of people’s face expressions, capturing their emotions, mood in the room, details of the food, nature, atmosphere in the bourgeoisie family the Recchi. Emma had the guts to break free from fake life and let the love and passion hidden and suppressed within her unfold. Beautiful drama.

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Senna (2010)

Documentary Senna is unbelievable watch. Emotional. Sincere. Story of a pure driver seeking happiness and wholeness. Indeed the best racer ever…Bravo, Ayrton.

“The harder I push, the more I find within myself. I am always looking for the next step, a different world to go into, areas where I have not been before. It’s lonely driving a Grand Prix car, but very absorbing. I have experienced new sensations and I want more. That is my excitement, my motivation.”

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Inside Job (2010)

“Everyone should be forced to watch this movie.”

Inside Job, stop and reconsider, if the people we admire for their wealth and achievements could take part in the world’s biggest scam and fraud…You can watch whole movie on Youtube -> part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 7 and 8. 

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Catfish (2010)

If you are on Facebook or not, please watch Catfish movie please.

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Source Code (2011)

Surprisingly good movie! Watch Source Code, use your imagination & keep in mind:

“Make every second count!”

Jerry Maguire (1996)

Even tough the fact, that famous tag line from movie Jerry Maguire is: “Show me the money!”, this movie ain’t about money. [Caution] you might need a tissues box next to you when watching this movie.

“That’s how you become great, man. Hang your balls out there!”

 

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in year 2010

Pleasantville (1998)

Pleasantville was one of the best movies I have watched in 2010. Thanks to Karl Baba for listing it on his FB info page and enriching our world by it.

“What’s outside of Pleasantville?There are some places that the road doesn’t go in a circle. There are some places where the road keeps going.”

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The Prestige (2006)

The Prestige is simply another piece of art directed by Mr. Nolan. “Watch it closely!”

“The secret impresses no one. The trick you use it for is everything.”

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Kingdom of Heaven (2005)

Watched on 12th Dec 2010 and loved every minute of this 3 hours long movie – The Kingdom of Heaven is epic watch with kick-ass dialogues and quotes.

“You are not what you were born, but what you have it in yourself to be.”

“Holiness is in right action, and courage on behalf of those who cannot defend themselves.”

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Spirited Away (2001)

I came across this movie, thanks to yesterday’s blog post by Derek Sivers. Thank you Derek! WOW, what a genius work by a creator of this magical fantasy world. Super Cool Gang, Spirited Away is certainly a must watch.

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Scent Of A Woman (1992)

Oh, my. I have watched this movie last night (20th Nov) for the first time and I did not move my eyes away from the screen till 4 AM. Yes,  Scent Of A Woman was such great movie:

“Whoo-ah!”

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The Deer Hunter (1978)

This movie was recommended to me by my classmate from high school: Helena. Thank you for that, Heli! The Deer Hunter is powerful story about life – friendship – non-sense of war and true love among friends….Simply must watch.

“You have to think about one shot. One shot is what it’s all about. A deer’s gotta be taken with one shot.”

 

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Adaptation (2002)

Amazing movie! Thanks @presentationzen for pointing it out. More about the movie, here.

“You are what you love, not what loves you.”

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Shine A Light (2008)

Epic movie featuring true artists – The Rolling Stones, living their passion their whole life. Directed by THE Mr. Director: Martin Scorsese. Get ready for jamming, goose bumps and tears of gratitude. Rest of the lessons learned are summed up in the shipment “You Too Can Shine A Light!”.

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Rudy (1993)

Oh, boy this is THE movie for everyone who still hesitate, whether to fight or not go fight for own dreams. True story of a boy who did not quit and fought till the end! Thanks at SCG-er Michal Ulicny for sharing this movie on his Facebook wall on 22nd August 2010.

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The Lives of Others (2007)

WOW…Still catching my breath after watching this master piece movie! “Coincidentally” I have watched it on 21st August, a day when we remember event of 1968 in Czechoslovakia (that time)…Thank you Lubo Beno, for recommending this movie couple of weeks back on your Facebook wall. Simply a must watch movie!

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Exam (2009)

I have watched this movie on 16th June, thanks to recommendation by Michael Yanakiev. I totally agree with Mike, it is must watch movie with so many truths in it.

“It is not about the answer, it is about the question.”

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United States Of Leland (2003)

Simply must watch movie, which kept me awake till early AM on 26th May.

“It is funny, how people say: “I am only human”, when day do something bad. They don’t say the same, when they save a child from burning building.”

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American History X (1998)

I have watched this movie on 22nd May thanks to spotting it among favorite movies of one Facebook friend. It qualifies for must watch without any doubt.

“Hate is a baggage…”

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The Great Debaters (2007)

Yesterday (4th May) I have received an email from Slovak young lady: “I live in UK and I didn’t want to return back to Slovakia, but seeing the work you do, I might think of coming back. If you have not seen the movie Great Debaters, you might like it.” I did watch it the same night and I am incredibly grateful to EliskaTothova not only for her words, but also for suggesting me this amazing movie – MUST WATCH.

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Year One (2009)

One day before my mum’s birthday, I have watched and laughed out loudly at this super cool movie. Awesome humor and real parody on still present  issues in our society even nowadays.

We are playing game:  “Burny Burny Cut Cut”

Where do you think rain comes from? Clouds? Of course from sacrificing virgins. Duh!

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Invictus (2009)

Extraordinary movie…26th March 2010 I have done loads of notes, silently shed  tears and used tissues while watching this inspiring piece. This movie is  for those who are not afraid to be captains of their souls….WATCH IT and listen carefully, when you are unafraid, too.

…Times change and we need to change as well.I am thinking how he spent 30 years in tiny cell and he has come out to forgive people who put him there.This country is hungry for greatness….

…I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul…

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Bicentennial Man (1999)

One robot’s 200 years long journey to become and ordinary man. Breath-taking insights about what great gifts and skills human beings have and don’t appreciate them, don’t use them. Robot Andrew has sacrificed immortality to feel and to be human. I cried many times, while watching this epic journey of one robot who was discovering his inner identity. Simply MUST WATCH!

“Life is a treat. Look for your soul and meaning.”

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I, Robot (2004)

Isaac Asimov’s three laws of robotics and such a depth of this movie has thrown me out of the balance. How come I have not seen it before? Hmmm, certainly will watch it again. Guys, pay close attention to dialogues in the movie, it is more than a sci-fi story….

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This Is It! (2009)

I  have watched this movie for the first time only few days after NGLS event and I was astonished. Last song in the movie Man In the Mirror brought tears into my eyes. Since NGLS I  have a soft spot for this song… In the last one week I have watched it 3 more times…2 times on the board of the plane on the way to show the world to my mum. Yes, it is a must watch. Thank you MJ for your legacy.

“Love lives forever!”

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Cadillac Records (2008)

Me and my mum have watched this movie on our first holiday trip ever, last week. It were memorable moments and this movie made it memorable too. Super cool music and passion in action. We loved it.

Based on true events of Chess Records and stars they “produced”: Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Chuck Berry, Etta James and many more will make you go back to 1950s Chicago. Certainly must watch for me!

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Departures/ Okuribito (2008)

I have watched this movie on 22nd January 2010, I have found it by “coincidence” via Facebook’s application Flixster. It is truly touching story. I liked these quotes:

“The last shopping of your life is done by others. All coffins burn the same way, no matter of design or price of the coffin.” ” Death is gateway. Death doesn’t mean end, but leaving the present.Heading for a next stage.Truly a gateway. As a gatekeeper,I have seen off many people.”Have a nice trip, see you soon” I would say.

Don’t worry guys it ain’t any black morbid movie, it tells more about life than one can imagine…

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Chosen from randomly watched movies in year 2009

The Shift (2009) – starring Dr. Wayne Dyer

I have watched the Shift movie last weekend (13th September ’09) thanks to my re-union with cousin Michal, who shared the movie with me. Awesome must watch for everyone who is longing for finding the purpose in life.

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Peaceful Warrior (2006)

Another movie, which made me to take notes into my quotes journal. Inspirational piece for those who are warriors and fighting the battle inside.

1st realization is: “not knowing.” The journey is what brings you happiness not the destination. Where are you?>>HERE. What time is it?>>>NOW. Who are you?>>>This moment!

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Dead Poet’s Society (1989)

Inspirational story about  “just” English teacher, who was changing the lives. Freedom , creativity, compassion, joy and seizing the day are the main pillars of the movie, which will not leave your eyes dry.

Carpe Diem!

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Gran Torino (2008)

Relationship of a man with himself, who face his own fear, can lead to unexpected actions and develop bonds, which transform “pre-set” system and rules in seemingly hopeless situation. Celebration of Clint’s Eastwood movie by Clint himself. Jamie Cullum’s soundtrack only top up this art piece.

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Into the Wild (2007)

Simply must see movie! There is more in life than to follow the artificial inventions of society as career, wealth and consuming. Important in life is to FEEL STRONG, not to be strong. Journey of a young man, which gave him wisdom and eternal freedom.

The last message of Christopher, was  “happiness is to be shared.”

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Julie & Julia (2009)

Extraordinary performance by Meryl Streep. Remarkable journey of two ladies, two true stories, two lives full of passion and dedication. Loved every second of it.

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