Roger Ebert's Top 10 Movies: A Personal Commentary
As an expert film critic, Roger Ebert's top 10 list is a testament to his keen eye for cinema and his ability to appreciate a wide range of films. Here's my personal take on his selections, with a focus on the personal commentary and analysis that makes Ebert's work so compelling.
- Aguirre, the Wrath of God
What makes this film particularly fascinating is its audacity and the sheer audacity of its director, Werner Herzog. Ebert references '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'Apocalypse Now' as films that share this grandiose vision. But 'Aguirre' takes it a step further, with its epic adventure into the Amazon rainforest, shot on location and with a legendary production history. The film's guerrilla energy and the risk of casting Klaus Kinski as the titular historical figure add to its allure. It's a film about the madness of conquest, but also the madness of filmmaking.
- Apocalypse Now
In my opinion, this film is one of the most powerful and bleak cinematic portrayals of the Vietnam War. Ebert's appreciation for its existential depth and surrealism is well-founded. The film's direct inspiration from Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness' and its legendary production troubles make it a masterpiece. The journey of Captain Willard into the heart of darkness is a surreal fever dream, and the film's exploration of the darkness within human capacity is profound.
- Citizen Kane
What many people don't realize is that 'Citizen Kane' wasn't always seen as a cinematic classic. Ebert's appreciation for its innovative visual language and storytelling is evident. The film's re-release and its impact on cinema history are remarkable. The use of deep-focus shooting and stark lighting, along with its stirring story about a life wasted in pursuit of capitalist excess, make it a timeless masterpiece.
- La Dolce Vita
This film is a personal favorite for Ebert, and it's easy to see why. Fellini's 1960 masterpiece captures the glamour and emotional squalor of the main character, Marcello. The film's episodic structure and stream-of-consciousness style reflect the emotional hole at the center of our lead character. It's a relatable story for many young, educated professionals, and Fellini's pacing and sense of humor make it a timeless classic.
- The General
Ebert's appreciation for 'The General' lies in its reckless, daredevil spirit and impressive practical stunts. The film's clear sympathies toward the Confederacy and Keaton's risky performances make it a visceral and thrilling watch. The extended locomotive chase sequence is a testament to the film's daring and the reality of in-camera stunts.
- Raging Bull
This film is a powerful and heartrending portrait of jealousy and the dark heart of boxing. Ebert's comparison to 'Othello' is apt, and the film's exploration of Jake LaMotta's turbulent life is harrowing. Scorsese and De Niro's close handling of LaMotta's destructive nature and Michael Chapman's cinematography make it a gripping and unforgiving watch.
- 2001: A Space Odyssey
This film is a symphony of opulent, philosophical spectacle. Ebert's appreciation for its ambitious aspirations and diverse modes of filmmaking is well-expressed. The film's exploration of man's myopic folly in space and the unsettling antagonist, HAL 9000, make it a timeless and thought-provoking experience.
- Tokyo Story
Ebert's appreciation for 'Tokyo Story' lies in its quiet, observational, and character-driven drama. Ozu's film evokes deep emotion through a seemingly humble sense of craft. The film's exploration of family structures and changing times is universal and relatable, making it a heartrending and profound watch.
- The Tree of Life
This film is a beautiful and affirmative ode to the importance of every person. Ebert's choice of 'The Tree of Life' over 'Synedoche, New York' reveals his sentimentality and appreciation for Malick's elliptical sense of emotive impressionism. The film's exploration of human connection, conflict, and love is a timeless and profound experience.
- Vertigo
This film is a personal and elusive confessional, closely tied to its creator, Alfred Hitchcock. Ebert's appreciation for its exploration of Hitchcock's obsessions and themes is evident. The film's meta-textual nature and its mirror to Hitchcock's personal life make it a captivating and unsettling watch.
In conclusion, Roger Ebert's top 10 list is a testament to his personal taste and his ability to appreciate a wide range of films. Each of these films is a masterpiece in its own right, and Ebert's commentary and analysis add a layer of depth and insight that makes his work so engaging and thought-provoking.
