We have some expectations of what levels a movie will reach, based on the budget, genre, or the people involved in making them. These were some of the movies that stood out as surprisingly good for having a limited budget, or being simply less-known.
Cashback
The poster for this is really misleading. It's almost an inverse version of Fight Club. There are a few weaknesses, but it's a very interesting story.
Robot & Frank
If my father were still alive, I think he would enjoy this one. Most of the fun comes from the interaction between Frank and the Robot, which sets up appropriate robotic rules, and it rings true. The twist to the story makes it a bit more sad, but it's probably one of the only positive-tech stories I've seen in a long time.
Exam
It's solidly performed. I can't give away too much, but it made me think of The Experiment, another limited cast drama that sucks you in.
The Brass Teapot
A pleasant balance between the moralistic Twilight Zone sort of story, a good hint of comedy, and a bit of darkness. A very well-handled script that explored all of the appropriate possibilities of the premise.
Ms. 45
A not-quite-revenge-exploitation movie. Shot well, very memorable images. I haven't seen much like it.
The Paranormal Activity movies
I know these aren't for everyone. Part of why I like them is that there's nothing else like them out there. It's a simple kind of story, but it's hard to say exactly how it will unfold. The tension is managed well, and it doesn't feel forced. There's a minimum of shaky-cam work. Best of all, the stories create a larger narrative, which rewards the viewer for paying attention.
Unwatchably weird
Keyhole
Strangest acceptably good movie
Rubber
While I can explain the steps that the movie takes, I can't explain the way in which it makes sense. Some people might be turned off by the weirdness of the premise, but others might accept it for being what it is.
Most overrated classic
Saturday Night Fever
A bleak, bleak movie. I have no problem with that, but it's the lack of self-awareness that seems to be there. The characters have no redeeming moments. No one seems to consider doing the right thing.
The worst thing I watched…
No idea. A Brush With Death? Possibly Bloody Mary? Nothing stood out as being wildly bad.
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