E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Steven Spielberg's powerful, touching film about a boy befriending an alien is one of the greatest science fiction movies of all time. The performances are great, the script is superb and the special effects are spectacular, but the best thing about this movie is, undoubtedly, Spielberg's excellent direction. Also to note is the riveting score which accentuates this film's power.

Arlington Road (1999)

One of the most intense movies I've ever seen. Arlington Road is continuosly entertaining, packed with excitement and has one helluva ending. Jeff Bridges is excellent and Tim Robbins is delightfully creepy. The supporitng cast is great also, I'd watch this film again just for the performances. The directing is top-notch and the script is filled with suspense. And once again, really great ending.

Ransom (1996)

Suspense-filled thriller that generates a few thrills but is hardly anything above average. Mel Gibson is very good but is outshined by Gary Sinise who delivers another great performance. Rene Russo is good as usual and Delroy Lindo is solid. The script provides a lot of plot twists, one of which, near the end is particulary clever. Overall, Ransom is a moderately entertaining film that is good for one viewing but is hardly anything above average.

~Dani Koev