The art of cinematography is truly unappreciated by many, but two people who share an appreciation for this art are Riley Shelley and Luke Nestleroad; these two combined have amassed hundreds of movies in their catalogs. These guys don’t just watch movies for a good time but also for the deeper meaning. Luckily, I was able to steal some of their time and interview them to find out these guys’ favorite movies and movies they recommend to everyone to watch.
Riley Shelley:
“The Batman(2021)- The cinematography is really good, and I really like how it leans into Batman being a detective and not just a superhero. I also think the Riddler was a great villain, and the movie keeps you engaged despite being long.
Malcolm X- It is a drama and biography, and shows the development of Malcolm X into who we know of him today. I feel like it taught me a lot about someone who is pretty misunderstood. The movie showed the development of his opinions rather than just portraying him as s static person.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2- This has been my favorite movie for a long time because it is the only movie that actually makes me laugh out loud. Rodrick is such an amazing character and the movie being more focused on him definitely makes it better than the first. There are so many iconic scenes, and the whole original trilogy is very entertaining and short.
I recommended that everyone watch Fight Club. I think it’s pretty important to be familiar with what are considered ‘classics’, and for me, this is one of them that really lived up to the hype. I kinda saw the twist coming, but overall I enjoy the whole premise and character development, and it makes the twist super rewarding.”
Riley’s list consists of some classics and some childhood heartwarming stories. His list is pretty perfect in my opinion, even though I haven’t seen Malcolm X yet. Now that Riley said it’s in his top three, I’ll be sure to check it out. Along with his recommendation of Fight Club, which is in my personal top three, so if you haven’t watched it yet, make sure you do.
Luke Nestleroad:
“My top three movies are
- Stand by Me
This movie has the perfect mix of comedy and emotion, and perfectly encapsulates the need for childhood friendship, especially when each of the kids has their troubles on their own. The last line that he types on the computer always hits so hard.
- La La Land
Great story about love, but also the need to focus on your own life and success in the end, even if that means sacrifice.
- Glory
My favorite historical movie is about the 54th Massachusetts Regiment in the Civil War, and the patriotism behind serving your country even when everyone else is against you. Also hits close to home because they fought on Morris Island at the entrance to Charleston Harbor.
A couple of movies I would recommend are:
-Prisoners
-The Pianist
-Django Unchained
-Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
Even though I haven’t seen the majority of Luke’s list, I have heard great things about all of them, and they are all on my future watchlist. Especially Django Unchained and The Pianist. Luke obviously loves learning from these movies about human nature and how to live a better life, learning from La La Land and Stand By Me. So if you’re looking for a movie with a deeper message, be sure to check out some of Luke’s list.
