These are films which I think about often, reference in conversations or had a very pleasurable viewing experience when watching and wish to make note of it.
Before Sunrise (1995) - dir. Richard Linklater
Nothing more can be said about this film. It is perfection: Beautiful, intimate, dreamy. Everything that first day when you meet someone you feel a connection should be. This is my current favourite film. As of October 2025, I saw this on the big screen at Lab111. It was stunning. (Note: I have not yet watched any of the follow ups to this film).
Raising Arizona (1987) - dir. Joel Coen
Watched at the Eye Filmmuseum as part of their 'The Coen Brothers Complete' event that ran Summer '24. Wonderful viewing experience. Was on 35mm reel, with subtitles. The audience was electric, the film was even better. I think about that evening often. I wonder if the next time I watch it the film shall be as good.
Withnail and I (1987) - dir. Bruce Robinson
Watched in the cinema during my last month living in Wales. I fell utterly in love with it. I cannot recommend it enough. Go into blind if you can. Let the film happen to you. Someday, I plan to do the drinking game where you match Withnail drink for drink.
Chungking Express (1994) - dir. Wong Kar-Wai
I hadn't seen this film until September 2025 at the Eye Filmmuseum and was kicking myself after for not seeing it before but gods if that was not the ideal way to see it. Both parts of the film are wonderful, although I do prefer the second half as I connected with it more. I also must add that I adore Faye Wong and the music which soundtracked that section. Faye's music, specifically her cover of 'Dreams', soundtracked my Japan trip, especially those rides on the Shinkansen. I bought Faye's 1997 album '唱遊' in Tokyo as a souvenir. The film holds a very special place in my heart.
Moonstruck (1987) - dir. Norman Jewison
Watched this while ill on the sofa in my dad's
Amsterdam apartment running a fever and drinking lemon, honey and fresh ginger. Cher was phenomenal (and gorgeous) as I expected but the ensemble was really a standout. The perfect called-out-of-work film. Also the Vikki Carr song 'It Must Be Him' which soundtracks the film... Her voice is just spellbinding.