a chronicle of films worth watching

Here is a list of films I have recently seen that have meaningfully broadened my worldview. I offer them for your consideration. These recommendations are not so much endorsements of a particular opinion as they are invitations to expand one's educational base. I am very glad to have seen each of them. Most of these films can be had for free at the Provo library or for $1 at the Orem Library.

I am happy to hear your opinions on these films/documentaries, and would be delighted to hear of any that you would recommend to me and others.

The McCarthy Years (1991; NR) -- Journalist Edward R. Murrow confronts the actions of Senator Joseph McCarthy, challenging his abuses of power in connection with the alleged proliferation of Communism in the United States in the 1950's.

Who Killed The Electric Car? (2006; PG) -- From 1996-1999 General Motors produced the all-electric EV-1. The car was so efficient and received such glowing reviews that those lucky enough to be leasing one thought they were on the brink of changing the way America did automobiles. So why were they all destroyed?

Why We Fight (2005; PG-13) -- The anatomy of American war-making. Inspired by President Eisenhower's 1961 farewell address in which he warned Americans about the dangers of the "military-industrial complex," this documentary is an exploration of half a century of American foreign policy from World War II to the Iraq War. It examines how political and corporate interests are increasingly entangled in the business of war. "It is nowhere written that the American empire goes on forever."

Bowling For Columbine (2002; R) -- An interesting and startling look at the issue of guns and a growing culture of violence. In the wake of the recent Columbine shootings, Michael Moore focuses on the background and environment in which the massacre took place and on some common public opinions and assumptions about related issues.

ps. Here is a list of some of my favorite movies starring Anthony Hopkins -- delightful!

   The World's Fastest Indian (2005)

   84 Charing Cross Road (1987; also starring Anne Bancroft)

   Remains of the Day (1993; also starring Emma Thompson)

   Shadowlands (1993)