IMDb (internet movie data base) is a website that provides facts about upcoming, old and in-production movies and television shows, not to mention celebrity profiles, the history of the Academy Awards winners for best picture and so much more. Based on critic and user ratings, IMDb has a list of the top 250 greatest movies of all time. These are my reviews of the top six.

1: The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

This incredible film is filled with messages of hope, determination, loss and showing the true limits of human capacity; this movie is a true masterpiece. The director’s work is simple yet visionary and leaves viewers with a sense of hope and amazement. When I first sat down to watch this movie my expectations were low. I’ve never had much interest in prison movies but this one had me intrigued from the very beginning. The plot develops almost like a mystery, unraveling hidden schemes and the internal conflicts many characters face. Plot twists and interesting developments are guaranteed to keep the viewer interested. I recommend this movie to anyone who is looking for some incredible acting.

IMDb rating: 9.3       My rating: 10

2: The Godfather (1972)

I’m almost positive 99 percent of the male population says this is their favorite movie next to Die Hard. To reinforce this stereotype my dad was the one who forced me to watch The Godfather, claiming it’s an “action packed insight into the world of organized crime.” This is going a little far considering the only action is watching random men shoot one another for no obvious reason. But besides being a violent movie about the Italian mafia, The Godfather has many admirable components no matter your taste in movies. Marlon Brando’s performance is incredible and he honestly gives the movie it’s high rating. Al Pacino also gives a memorable performance alongside Brando although not nearly as engaging. For anyone who loves violence and mobsters I definitely recommend this film.

IMDb rating: 9.2       My rating: 7

3: The Godfather Part 2 (1974)

Of the many sequels to movies I have seen this one is by far the most unique. It is almost the same movie as The Godfather only with a new lead and slightly different plot twists. I am not a fan of this sequel, but I almost have to give it the same rating as The Godfather because they are practically the same movie. One movie filled with mob shooting and unhealthy family ties is enough and two is just excessive. I would not recommend seeing The Godfather Part 2 unless you loved The Godfather.

IMDb rating: 9.0       My rating: 6

4: Pulp Fiction (1994)

Directed by Quentin Tarantino, Pulp Fiction is often described as a cult film, which is quite fitting. This is one of the most confusing movies I have ever watched. The plot twists were dull and the ending left me frustrated because it made me feel like there was some deep meaning I was missing. The first half of the film I did enjoy, but by the time Bruce Willis becomes a central character the movie goes downhill rapidly. I do admire the artistic nature and originality of the film, but the acting by John Travolta and Uma Thurman in the leading roles is mediocre. Pulp Fiction only won one Academy Award in 1994 for best original screenplay even though it received six other nominations including best picture. If you like creative movies about drug addicted mob hit-men, Pulp Fiction is the movie for you.

IMDb rating: 9.0       My rating: 6

5: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966)

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is ranked at number five but it was so boring I couldn’t get past the first 30 minutes of the film without falling asleep so I’m going to skip to number 6.

6: The Dark Knight (2008)

First off, Christopher Nolan outdoes himself with incredible cinematography and a visionary take on the world of DC’s Batman. Heath Ledger’s performance as the notorious Joker is unforgettable and leaves behind his personal legacy. It’s unlikely anyone will be able to outdo him in future installments of the Batman franchise. Ledger was terrifyingly brilliant as a deranged sociopath and keeps the audience engaged throughout the entire film. Christian Bale likewise embodies Batman’s character perfectly mirroring the world Nolan created for the film.The character arcs are genius along with many other riveting performances by Aaron Eckhart, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman and Gary Oldman. A major flaw in the acting department of the film is Maggie Gyllenhaal’s performance as Rachel Dawes. Being Jake Gyllenhaals’ sister I expected her to have similar talent but this is obviously false. She gives a dull, dry performance that sticks out among the many other incredible actors surrounding her. The plot is action filled and will keep any viewer on the edge of his seat.

IMDb rating: 9.0      My rating: 10