As a film enthusiast who’s spent countless hours in cinemas, I wholeheartedly agree with this list. It’s a delightful blend of classics, blockbusters, and cult favorites that have left an indelible mark on me over the years.

Reminiscent of Nicole Kidman’s eloquence, let me share my experience: Just as a movie audience shares common emotions, I found myself experiencing an unprecedented emotion upon watching the re-release of “Interstellar” at AMC Lincoln Square. As I settled into my seat in front of the colossal IMAX screen, I was genuinely surprised to find that at a 2:45 p.m. Friday showing of a decade-old film, an impressively vast theater with steeply sloped seating – the only authentic IMAX venue in Manhattan – was completely filled to capacity.

This weekend marked the beginning of the film’s second run in theaters. (Last weekend, it earned an impressive $4.6 million on 165 screens.) As the movie began, I couldn’t help but feel a strong sense of unity with the audience, as we all seemed eager to relive the experience of “Interstellar.” While there were certainly some who had not seen it before, this was essentially a re-release of Christopher Nolan’s 2014 space epic that also tackled climate change and explored deep themes of father-daughter relationships. As we stared up at the massive screen, I found myself captivated by the magical trinity of wonder, exploration, and anticipation.

Admittedly, I’ve never been particularly fond of the movie “Interstellar.” Watching it again didn’t change my opinion. It’s an unusual blockbuster, featuring spectacular special effects that make you feel like you’re really in space (and these effects are even more stunning thanks to IMAX), but the plot is erratic and seems improvised at times. While all the pieces eventually fall into place, it’s a rollercoaster ride of “Wow!” moments mixed with a dash of mysticism. The script was written by Christopher Nolan and his brother, Jonathan Nolan, but the film has a unique blend of Stephen Hawking’s intellectual depth and M. Night Shyamalan’s twisty narrative style.

I found myself captivated and bewildered by certain parts of it, while I winced at others, and I couldn’t fully embrace its premise. However, let me clarify, there’s a significant paradox in crafting a “visionary” science fiction film that is so obsessively tied to the aesthetics of “2001: A Space Odyssey,” from the organ motifs to the twin-perspective wormhole to the recurring theme of human rejuvenation. Yet, my intention isn’t to complain. Instead, I want to express that despite my criticisms, it was a pleasure to watch “Interstellar” in the cinema again. It felt like a journey through time (albeit just a decade), and I was thrilled to discover that several others shared the same sentiment.

This brings me to wonder: If a film not considered by me as one of Nolan’s greatest works can achieve such a successful re-release, what other movies might be suitable for a theatrical re-run? I understand that Nolan is a director that studios would likely want to honor in this way, and there aren’t many like him. No one’s suggesting that a re-released movie will make a fortune.

Yet I think this is a moment when judiciously chosen rereleases could lure audiences in and serve a higher purpose. When you go to see a movie in a theater that’s not a current movie — that is, almost by definition, cinema passion. And cinema passion is what audiences need to be reminded of. The megaplex as revival house? Why not? It’s been done before. But maybe we should consider doing it with some freshly energized programming savvy. For starters, here are 12 films I would love to see in a theater with an audience again. Put another way: Would you rather pay $17 to see one of these or “Morbius & Kraven: The Spider-Villain Squad”?

In 2000, the film “Gladiator” was released. While Ridley Scott’s follow-up, titled “Gladiator II,” may not have been as visually stunning, it clearly demonstrated that there is still a strong interest in “Gladiator”-style movies. Instead of creating a sequel, why not revisit the original masterpiece where Russell Crowe delivers an unforgettable portrayal of genuine, non-toxic masculinity?

“Pulp Fiction” (1994) continues to be Quentin Tarantino’s masterpiece, a work that compels revisiting in a grand cinema setting. There, it can regain its status as an epic explosion of peril and exhilaration on the silver screen once more.

“Gravity” (2013). Compared to “Interstellar,” it’s more straightforward, yet offers three times the cinematic experience. Watching it on the big screen, you feel almost one with its awe-inspiring cosmic grandeur and defying-gravity rhythm. Notably, Sandra Bullock delivers an exceptional portrayal as an astronaut drifting alone in space.

1999’s “Fight Club” seems to have resonated deeply with a particular group of young men, many of whom later supported Trump. The aggressive, inward-focused subculture that emerged among these voters may have been initially shaped by this film. It would be fascinating to revisit David Fincher’s raw allegory anew, this time from within the perspective of being part of that same audience.

1990’s movie titled “Ghost“. It offers an array of elements: love, death, pottery, supernatural suspense, and Demi Moore, whose popularity is renewed through “The Substance”, during her most romantic phase. Notably, Patrick Swayze played a powerful role. Time to revisit their enchanting melody once more.

The 2006 film ‘Casino Royale’. Since Daniel Craig has concluded his tenure as James Bond, it would be worthwhile for Bond enthusiasts to revisit what is widely considered the best 007 movie – a masterpiece in its own right. In my view, as the Craig Bond films progressed, they started to feel more like part of a franchise, but Craig’s initial portrayal of the character is a unique and exceptional piece of storytelling.

2011 film titled “Bridesmaids“. There’s nothing quite as infectious as humor, and this hilarious romantic satire by Kristen Wiig and Paul Feig about female friendship amidst the intense spotlight of wedding preparations and social class struggles is one such contagiously funny spectacle.

“Cocktail” (1988) – a film that, believe it or not, has been synonymous with Tom Cruise and moviegoers for four decades. Despite the existence of 20 superior Cruise films, “Cocktail” stands out due to its almost innocent yet slightly corrupt ’80s brashness. Can this deep-rooted cheesy nostalgia resonate with a new audience? Let’s see.

1998’s “Blade” has garnered immense popularity due to its charismatic vampire slayer protagonist. The thrill of watching early comic-book adaptations like this one, preceding the Marvel era, is undeniable. In the lead role, Wesley Snipes delivers an outstanding performance that truly sets the tone for his character.

1997’s “L.A. Confidential” – a gripping dark thriller from director Curtis Hanson. At the time, many weren’t familiar with Guy Pearce or Russell Crowe, but getting to know them through this masterpiece only adds to its enjoyment. This film is reminiscent of the classic Hollywood movies, like reading a novel by Tolstoy. Yet, it continues to captivate audiences today.

“Zoolander” (2001) has been re-released and I see it as the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” equivalent for the era of Instagram vanity. This film featuring Ben Stiller’s fashion antics has quite a devoted following, but even those who haven’t seen it yet should give it a watch, especially a new generation of potential Zoolander fans.

1992’s film, “Basic Instinct,” brings back memories of a time when watching sex on screen came with a sense of guilt. This provocative and notorious thriller delves into the idea of discarding moral obligations to indulge your darker instincts. It’s high time we revisit Sharon Stone’s charisma, reminding us all what it means to be a movie star.

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2024-12-14 21:18