Buzz
Babe (1995)
Despite the risk of becoming overly sentimental, director and co-writer Chris Noonan, alongside producer and co-writer George Miller (Mad Max), infused the tale of a pig aspiring to herd sheep with remarkable depth. Based on the book The Sheep-Pig, this film is a delightful and uplifting experience for all ages, blending intelligence with emotional richness. It’s undoubtedly a positive recommendation. (The sequel, Babe: Pig in the City, is arguably even more impressive.) Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max, Prime Video, Hulu
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Among Spike Lee’s early works, this film stands out as one of his finest achievements, which is no small feat. It masterfully balances humor, warmth, humanity, and tragedy, making it difficult to imagine anyone who appreciates this film having poor taste or being a bad person. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Peacock
The Mummy (1999)
Brendan Fraser has recently been in the spotlight for all the right reasons. By all accounts, he’s a genuinely kind individual whose career faced setbacks unrelated to his immense talent. When it comes to action-packed blockbusters featuring undead villains, The Mummy stands out as one of the most lighthearted and entertaining options. It’s wonderfully playful, endlessly enjoyable, and, of course, stars Brendan Fraser. Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max, Prime Video, Hulu
The Princess Bride (1987)
While it’s a beloved nostalgic classic, it’s also a masterfully crafted and joyful piece of cinema. Whether it’s a green flag or simply a universally adored film is debatable, but disliking it might just be a red flag. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Disney+
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Attack the Block (2011)
This film is an exceptional mix of humor, thrills, scares, and insightful social critique. It also introduced us to both John Boyega and Jodie Whittaker. The sheer energy and chaos of this movie can’t be captured in a single description. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Hulu
Speed Racer (2008)
One of the most frequently mentioned films, this live-action adaptation of the classic manga/anime by the Wachowskis was initially panned by critics and underperformed at the box office. However, appreciating this film is a testament to one’s ability to see past its initial reception and embrace its vibrant, kaleidoscopic vision. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Shrek 2 (2004)
While Shrek has its fans, Shrek 2 seems to garner even more affection. This is justified, as it’s arguably just as good, if not slightly superior. It also shows that someone is willing to dig a little deeper rather than opting for the most obvious choice. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Hulu
Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children (2005)
Anime recommendations were sparse (this being one of the few non-Studio Ghibli mentions), possibly because it’s not the first thing that comes to mind in “film twitter” discussions. This film has its dedicated fans, though it might not top the list if the focus were solely on anime. Perhaps it’s simply a sign of excellent taste in video games. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Director George Miller strikes again, proving his versatility by excelling in both family-friendly classics (the Babe series) and adrenaline-pumping thrillers (Mad Max, etc.). In a world saturated with action films, Fury Road felt revolutionary, seamlessly blending narrative and action without compromising either. A masterclass in high-octane cinema for discerning viewers. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Shin Godzilla (2016)
It’s no surprise to see Godzilla films on this list, as even fans of the campiest kaiju movies likely have a playful spirit. These films, however, offer depth: the 1954 original serves as a somber reflection on post-war Japan, while Destroy All Monsters delivers pure monster-mashing excitement. The latest Japanese installment, helmed by Hideaki Anno of Neon Genesis Evangelion fame, combines these elements and stands as one of the franchise’s finest. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Pacific Rim (2013)
Moonstruck (1987)
Why didn’t Cher grace more films with her presence? She shines in this flawless movie, which is packed with stellar performances. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Amelie
How could anyone resist such an enchanting film? Suggested here.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Crackle
The Straight Story
This description captures it perfectly:
Additionally, it’s the sole David Lynch film available on Disney+, placing it in a uniquely odd cultural position.
Where to stream: Disney+
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992)
Ah, yes... there’s the David Lynch we all recognize and adore. Or at least, some of us do. While The Straight Story might attract a wider audience, those who appreciate the initially criticized and underappreciated Fire Walk with Me (a niche even among Twin Peaks enthusiasts) will find plenty to discuss. Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Clue (1985)
Many fans mentioned Clue. But does your favorite ending reveal something about your personality? Suggested here.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Pluto TV
Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
This cult comedy is adored by its fans, though it’s not universally seen. Enjoying WHAS might indicate a sharp sense of humor and a down-to-earth attitude. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
Regardless of how you feel about judging someone’s taste based on a single film: If you’ve grown weary of Singin’ in the Rain, you’ve lost your zest for life. Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max
The Greatest Showman (2017)
This seems fair:
Where to stream: Disney+, Hulu, Sling TV
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn deliver an uncharacteristically hilarious yet flawless performance. How could anyone not adore it? Suggested here.
Where to stream: Hulu, Sling TV
It’s a Wonderful Life (1939)
Countless December TV airings have somewhat lessened its impact, but it’s a much richer and darker film than it’s often given credit for. While nostalgia draws people back, its enduring appeal goes beyond its questionable copyright status that made it a holiday TV staple. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Big Trouble in Little China (1986)
Is it fantasy? Sci-fi? Martial arts action? Comedy? Trying to categorize Big Trouble is a challenge—and that’s the beauty of it. As John Carpenter’s quirkiest work, it resonates with fans who appreciate its eccentric charm. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Sling TV, Hulu
Time Bandits (1981)
While Terry Gilliam’s Monty Python and the Holy Grail (co-directed with Terry Jones) was mentioned, his imaginative fantasy Time Bandits came up more frequently. Perhaps a less mainstream choice like this reveals more about someone’s taste than a widely popular one. Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Cinderella (1997)
This refers specifically to the 1997 adaptation starring Brandy, Whitney Houston, and Bernadette Peters. The green flag here is recognizing the superior version of Cinderella. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Disney+
William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet (1996)
8 1/2 (1963)
There’s widespread admiration for the highly influential Italian director Federico Fellini, so think of 8 1/2, arguably his most celebrated work, as a stand-in for several films that could fit this category. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
In the somewhat niche genre of nautical buddy adventures, few films surpass this one. Before suggesting Master and Commander, be ready to answer whether you’ve read the source material. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Ghostbusters (2016)
This film is an absolute delight, and I’m here to assure you that it’s perfectly fine to enjoy it! Anyone who openly adores this movie isn’t bothered by your disapproval, and that’s a clear green flag. Suggested here.
Where to stream: Hulu
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
This is another film that’s nearly universally adored, making it more intriguing to discover why someone might dislike it rather than why they love it. Suggested here.
Where to stream: HBO Max
