Today, I’m listing the top ten things I love in movies, television, comics and games. The numbers aren’t really a ranking since I can’t compare my faves in different areas. This list may change eventually, but it’s been pretty solid for a while and it needs to be documented.
10. Red Dwarf
Are you looking for a culturally diverse, British, Sci-fi, comedy? Then this is the show for you. Red Dwarf covers the adventures the last human alive, a descendant of his pet cat, a hologram to keep him sane, and a cleaning android that was saved from serving corpses into eternity. Sounds like a lot, but the comedy is solid. This show has such a strong cult following that it was brought back from the dead for more seasons to be aired in 2016 and 2017. With the original cast, I might add. If that’s not an accomplishment, I don’t know what is.
9. Clue (1985)
Another cult hit from the 1980’s. It’s a movie based on a board game. Sound dumb, right. I agreed until I actually watched it. This movie is packed with some of the greatest actors of the era, including Tim Curry (An iconic role) and Madeline Khan (I’ll take more about her later). The multiple endings were shown in different theatres during the theatrical release and people’s minds were blown. All three endings are together on the DVD and IMO best viewed together.
8. Steven Universe
What can I say about Steven that hasn’t already been said? I’m not doing a synopsis because everyone is aware of it. It’s one of the most diverse and progressive shows on television. Rebecca Sugar has created a world full of characters that you can’t help to care about. That’s a sure fire way to get me hooked. I used to feel that way about Adventure Time, but that went away during season 5. (I think that was when Rebecca left that show.)
If you have reservations about enjoying a children’s show, get over it and get your binge watch on. If I have to get emotional over gay space rocks, then everyone does.
7. Robin Hood: Men in Tights
One of Mel Brooks’ gifts to the ages. A re-telling of the classic story with plenty of modern references. Cary Elwes is hilarious in the titular role. The other A-list talent leaves nothing to be desired. Richard Lewis, Dave Chappelle, Tracy Ulman, even Patrick Stewart are really flexing the old comedy muscles in this one. Full of dirty jokes, catchy tunes and goofy slapstick, this movie is sure to leave you asking for more.
6. X-Men (comics)
I have to specify between the comics and movies because I can’t stand the films. X-men comics were my everything as a kid. The Phoenix Saga, Days of Future Past, The Dark Phoenix Saga. I’m getting misty eyed remembering the glory days. There were characters I fell in love with and stories I could lose myself in. Storm was too good for Forge. Wolverine couldn’t get his head out of Jean’s ass. Psylocke being amazing at every turn. Bishop’s tragic timeline. Bitchy Emma Frost and the Hellfire Club. I could go on and on. I haven’t liked the direction Marvel has gone in at times, but my love for the characters still endures. Despite the icky film depictions.
5. Madeline Khan (1942–1999)
Probably my favorite comedic actress of all time. Her timing and characterization are always on point in her films. There isn’t a time when she’s on in her comedies that won’t elicit a chuckle. If you’ve never heard of her, Do yourself a favor and check her out any of her 31 feature films. At least watch her in the Mel Brooks Movies Young Frankenstein, History of the World: Part I, and especially…
4. Blazing Saddles (1974)
An all-time favorite. The story of a black sheriff, his alcoholic partner, and the ass-backward town he was charged to defend. Mel Brooks offered up a masterpiece that almost absolutely couldn’t be made the same way today. Jokes about America’s racist past and corrupt officials are sure to ruffle some people’s feathers. Also, did I mention Madeline Khan is in this. She plays a German bombshell that meets her match with Sheriff Bart. Harvey Korman and Gene Wilder also give amazing performances. This movie should have won all 3 of the Oscars it was nominated for, but we know how the Academy is.
3. Persona 4 and Persona 4: Golden (PS2, PS Vita)
It would be an understatement to say that I am obsessed with these games. Solving murder cases in a rural Japanese town has never been so fun. Relatable and unforgettable characters, a compelling story, and enjoyable battle system drop Persona 4 very high on my favorites list. Essentially, they are the same game but the Golden includes a new social links and dungeons. I love this so much, I’ve bought and played all of the spinoff games. With its large replayability value, you can easily clock hundreds of hours with this game and keep coming back for more.
2. Dragon Ball Z/Sailor Moon
As much as I love anime, this list wouldn’t be complete without the stars of the shonen and magical girl world. Dragon Ball Z is iconic and sits in a special place in my heart. I remember watching Goku’s adventures with my brother and cousins. We argued about how long it would take to finally conclude some of the arcs and even pretended to be Piccolo and Vegeta when my mom finally kicked us out of the house.
I came across Sailor Moon as a kid, but I didn’t fall in love with it until I was an adult. It follows Usagi Tsukino’s journey from being a whiny crybaby to a hero for the ages. I thought it was way too girly when I was younger and had issues within myself. As an adult, I love the value placed on female friendships and the inclusion of gay and trans characters. (Cousins, my ass.) If you have the time, (and you are gonna need it) watch the original run (200 episodes, 3 movies) before tackling Sailor Moon Crystal on Hulu. Crystal stays more in line with the manga and it can be fun to compare.
1. Monty Python
Probably my favorite thing to watch at any given time. Monty Python’s Flying Circus was one of the most groundbreaking and hilarious shows from the late ‘60’s. The troop’s wild success paved the way for five films and a lifetime worth of comedy gold. Each member has gone on to have amazing careers on their own, apart from Graham Chapman who died in 1989. There are just so many things I can say about the Pythons, but I prefer to let the masters of comedy speak for themselves. Monty Python’s Flying Circus is available on iTunes and Monty Python and the Holy Grail is on YouTube.
That’s it for now. This list may expand in the future, but that’s all for now. Have fun discovering new favorites or rediscovering new ones!
