This Top 5 focuses on the multi-faceted genre that is Crime films. Movies were only considered if the story revolved around a crime or criminal activity; the life of crime could not just be a backdrop to the action or just a small part of the plot. Additionally, there are a multitude of subtypes within this genre, so while gangster / mobster and heist films were included, I decided to separate out film noirs since they are so unique and could really make their own list down the line. Despite my limited viewings in this genre, come with me down a dark alleyway and run towards the Top 5 Crime Films.

This Top 5 is taking a trip down childhood memory lane to choose the best Nostalgia Movies - films that I loved as a kid and continue to love to this day. The film must have been watched multiple times during my youth and continue to be associated with a memory or tradition that was an important marker of growing up. Therefore, any film produced past 2004, when I graduated high school, has not been considered - and, to even make the cut, the film must be associated with more than just constant re-watches in our downstairs rec room (arranged with a HUGE - well, big for the ‘90s - screen with actual surround sound that my dad installed); rather, these films must be an essential part of my childhood progression into adult-hood and laid the groundwork for a future of loving cinema.

This Top 5 reviews Directorial Debuts, considering the film that was the opening gambit in a director’s career.

A Top 5 filled with adventure and swashbuckling - this list considers Movies with Swords. A few qualifications, the swords must be made of metal (thus disqualifying laser swords from a certain space opera fantasy) and must be central to the plot. Just because a movie has a scene with a sword fight doesn’t earn its place on the list; rather, the sword must be integral to the story, advance the plot, or play a role in the main character’s journey. Come with me to fantastical times and consider the best films that feature swords.

This Top 5 is considering movies you’ve watched once and never need to re-visit again, whether because it was a slog from start to finish, too emotional to subject yourself to again, or brings you rage just thinking about the title. There are absolutely films one can appreciate, be glad to watch once, but don’t need to experience again; on the other hand, there are films that are such a miss that one will actively avoid future contact. For this list, the film must have been viewed in its entirety, not seen again, and will not be seen again in the future.

Overlooked Movies is the next Top 5. For this list, the films considered must be gems that the general public most likely are not familiar with, but definitely should be.

This Top 5 is considering the Best Relationships in film - those stories that take a look at one of life’s most desired states and most confusing/difficult/amazing experiences - the process of meeting and falling in love.

This Top 5 examines Sports Movies - those tales of inspiration where people are training to achieve physical and mental domination over their opposition in a competition, often facing their own inner struggles as well during the course of the story arc.

This Top 5 examines Visually Stunning Movies - the films that amaze and delight viewers, that define an aesthetic and expertly and consistently executes that design.

This Top 5 is devoted to listing the best Woody Allen films.