Those that didn't make it

Before I start on my Top 20 Films of all time, here are some that didn't quite make the final cut...

SHALLOW HAL

One of the funniest films ever made, it's ingenious, with a brilliant concept. And despite the upbeat happy ending, it is extremely un-PC - especially as all the fat, ugly characters appearing in the film are played by generally good looking people. There is a message in there somewhere, but I don't think it's a very nice one!

The Man Who Would Be King

Sean Connery and Michael Caine - together! Based on the book by Rudyard Kipling (he who wrote the Jungle Book), it's a story of two old British Soldiers who travel to the far reaches of Afganistan (I think) to hire out their services as soldiers of fortune, training up the natives in modern warfare techniques. While fighting for a tribe, Connery survives a fatal wound with no harm, and the natives take him as their new King and God. Great stuff, with a cool ending.

Ben Hur

I'm actually astounded this never made my top 20 - it's a great story, a great film - it even has lepers and a guest appearance from Jesus Christ! Along with bloody dangerous chariot races, what more could anyone ask for, eh? I wasn't sure whether to include this or Spartacus in my top 20, but as Charlton Heston already gets an appearance, I thought I'd bump this one out.

Pretty Woman

It's a chick flick - so sue me. I like it.

Jack & Sarah

Erm, another chick flick - but it contains one scene that always manages to make me cry every damn time I see it, so it deserves a mention.

Back later with no's 20 and 19 of my Top 20.