The Matrix Tres stylish action film with the bonus of a terrific heroine (I want to be Trinity!). Watch it expecting nothing but action and be pleasantly surprised.

The Matrix (1999) Starring: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne Directors: Andy Wachowski, Larry Wachowski Synopsis: Mind-bending action/thriller about programmer discovering his world isn't what it seems. Some called its plot overly convoluted, but sci-fi fans should jack into the thoughtful story line, dazzling effects, and blistering action. Runtime: 136 minutes MPAA Rating: R Genres: Action, Cult, Martial Arts, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Thriller

Chasing Amy - Criterion Collection Some gritty romantic truths are found in this film. Quite a counterpart to typical romanitc comedies.

Chasing Amy (1997) Starring: Ben Affleck, Jason Lee Director: Kevin Smith Synopsis: Vibrant, offbeat comedy about twisted romance between comic book artists explores sexuality, friendship, love. With witty dialogue, incisive characterizations, and risque humor, this bittersweet film is perfect for lovelorn 20-somethings. Runtime: 105 minutes MPAA Rating: R Genres: Comedy, Drama, Gay/Lesbian, Indie

The Brothers McMullen This film had me thinking, "that's exactly it!" quite a few times. An interesting and realistic look at romance from a male point of view. I needed to see this film when I did.

The Brothers McMullen (1995) Starring: Edward Burns, Jack Mulcahy Director: Edward Burns Synopsis: Talky, independent romantic comedy about three Irish-American brothers at a crossroad in their relationships. This low-budget, slice-of-life film thrills art-house fans, romantic comedy lovers seeking thoughtful exploration of contemporary morality. Runtime: 98 minutes MPAA Rating: R Genres: Comedy, Drama, Indie, Romance

Dead Poets Society One of my favorite dramas, a must for anyone trying to find their own place in the world.

Dead Poets Society (1989) Starring: Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard Director: Peter Weir Synopsis: Popular prep school drama about offbeat English teacher inspiring his students in New England, circa 1959. Critics raved over strong performances. Hollywood-style, sentimental tearjerker is heaven for viewers seeking sensitive melodrama. Runtime: 84 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Genre: Drama

Strictly Ballroom Wacky, romantic and with impressive dancing. One of my favorite foreign films.

Strictly Ballroom (1992) Starring: Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice Director: Baz Luhrmann Synopsis: Offbeat, crowd-pleasing, acclaimed Australian tale about competitive ballroom dancer and his ugly-duckling partner. Lively art-house hit pleases fans of non-mainstream fare seeking upbeat, spirited mix of romance, drama, and comedy. Runtime: 94 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance

The Shining Now THIS is a scary movie. My favorite in the horror genre.

The Shining (1980) Starring: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall Director: Stanley Kubrick Synopsis: Chilling, cerebral drama about remote hotel caretaker slowly going insane. Though some viewers found its story cold, this remains a cult favorite, ideal for Jack Nicholson fans, eerie suspense lovers. Runtime: 146 minutes MPAA Rating: R Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery

North by Northwest I'm a Hitchcock fan and this is my favorite by him. A well crafted film for any era or age.

North by Northwest (1959) Starring: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint Director: Alfred Hitchcock Synopsis: Much-loved thriller chronicles cross-country manhunt for ad executive mistaken as government agent by spy ring. A must for fans of classic, fast-paced cliffhangers. Great introduction to Hitchcock for curious viewers. Runtime: 136 minutes MPAA Rating: NR Genres: Action, Classic, Drama, Mystery, Suspense

Independence Day - Special Edition I saw this film while on vacation and maybe it was partly that, but I really enjoyed it, even to the point of inadvertently cheering on Will Smith at a key scene.

Independence Day (1996) Starring: Will Smith, Bill Pullman Director: Roland Emmerich Synopsis: Effects-heavy action mixed with crowdpleasing comic relief mark this sci-fi blockbuster about aliens ruthlessly invading Earth. Those searching for big-budgeted, Hollywood-style entertainment will enjoy this visually dazzling ride. Note: 2-disc DVD contains both the 142-minute theatrical version and the 153-minute Special Edition. Runtime: 142 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Genres: Action, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Better off Dead I still crack up when someone quotes "I want my two dollars!" from this film.

Better Off Dead (1985) Starring: John Cusack, David Ogden Stiers Director: Steve Holland Synopsis: Offbeat comedy is a frenzied series of over-the-top jokes concerning a forlorn boy dumped by his girlfriend. This sleeper appeals to fans of wacky sight gags and zany animation effects. Runtime: 97 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Genre: Comedy

Say Anything... Sweet yet with a realistic edge to it.

Say Anything (1989) Starring: John Cusack, Ione Skye Director: Cameron Crowe Synopsis: Strong performances, fresh take on unlikely couple's relationship make this romantic comedy widely appealing. Enjoyed by young adults, but perfect for genre fans of all ages. Runtime: 100 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance