'1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die' Challenge

Have I Seen It Before?: No Running Time: 96 minutes Directed By: Kenji Mizoguchi Written By: Matsutaro Kawaguchi Primary Cast: Masayuki Mori, Machiko Kyo, Kinuyo Tanaka Summary: A tale of ambition, family, love and war set in the midst of the Japanese Civil Wars of the sixteenth century. My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this one!  Glad I went into it without knowing anything about it.  It's essentially a morality tale on the consequences of choosing greed over family.  The most notable aspect of this film is the excellent cinematography.  It truly gave the film a uniquely mystical air, which really kept me captivated.  Does It Belong In The Book?: Yes.  An excellent morality tale with a magical cinematography approach. My Rating: 8/10

Have I Seen It Before?: No Running Time: 96 minutes Directed By: Dario Argento Written By: Dario Argento Primary Cast: Tony Musante, Suzy Kendall, Enrico Maria Salerno Summary: A witness of an attack, a writer becomes stalked by a serial killer. My Thoughts: I was pretty underwhelmed by this one.  I've absolutely loved the two Dario Argento films I've seen (Deep Red (1975) and Suspiria (1977)).  I felt like this was essentially a much lesser Deep Red.  I really don't have anything to complain about here, it just seems dated now that we have films doing this kind of thing much better.  For a Dario Argento film, I was a bit disappointed by the lack of over the top color schemes and, for the most part, a low key soundtrack (especially coming from Ennio Morricone of all people).  Does It Belong In The Book?: Yes.  The blueprint for the slasher horror genre, although films like Deep Red (1975) and Halloween (1978) greatly improve upon it. ...

As perfect of a psychedelic pop album as one could ask for.  It's essentially Sgt. Peppers Part II.  Even though it's technically more of a compilation album, it still flows as a strong album.  One of my personal favorite Beatles records.  So many of their greatest songs to be found here. 1. Magical Mystery Tour- ****1/2 A groovy way to start the album.  Just love getting lost into this little jam.  Think I love this one even more than the opener for Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band.  I especially love the piano outro. 2. The Fool On The Hill- ****1/2 An amazing McCartney song.  Love its whimsical vibe.  Especially that flute solo. 3. Flying- **** Even though it doesn't really stand out much, it's such a soothing little piece.  This one has really grown on me lately. 4. Blue Jay Way- **** Probably my least favorite on the album but I still love it.  Even though it isn't one of my favorite George Harrison songs...

Magical Mystery Tour (1967)

A great progressive rock album.  One of the most upbeat and fun ones I've heard.  Although it isn't without corny and plain odd moments, it's consistently awesome from start to finish.  Such lively instrumentation.  A go to summer record for me. 1. Roundabout- ***** Who doesn't love this one?? Just a perfect progressive rock song in every way.  So fun and over the top in the best way possible.  Insanely good instrumentation. 2. Cans And Brahms- **** Sounds like a progressive rock take on classical.  Yeah it's pretty corny but I really enjoy it for some reason. 3. We Have Heaven- **** This one is completely ridiculous but I enjoy it greatly. 4. South Side Of The Sky- ***** I'vc come to realize this is my personal favorite on the album.  Such a massive soundscape this creates.  Sports one of my favorite Yes guitar riffs. 5. Five Percent For Nothing- *** Eh don't really care for this one.  Just aimless noodling. 6....

Fragile (1971)

Let It Bleed (1969)