Directed by Robert Altman, based on Michael Tolkin’s novel. A studio executive, played by Tim Robbins, is being blackmailed by a writer whose script he rejected - but which one? This plot is written on a backdrop of sleazy Hollywood deals and several subplots involving the politics of the industry, loaded with Hollywood insider jokes.

I find it one of the best movies ever made about movies. We start with an incredible long “one-shot” showing us all the different characters on the studio lot talking - e.g. about the best long opening shots of all time while Robert Altman skillfully is showing you one. Then we see Tim Robbins in his office with famous film posters around him (who’s titles later always fit in the right situation). Tim is excellent as studio executive, Griffin Mill, the way he talks, thinks or orders water (you’ll get it if you watch it). What I loved about “The Player” is not only the original idea and the hilarious script but also, to find and name all the famous cameos. I’m not gonna give away much, but this film is absolutely worth watching!

Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwnhRRRQtaI

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Based on Stephen King’s short story “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption”, Frank Darabont wrote the screenplay and directed this film, which at times reminds us (intentionally) of “The Count of Monte Cristo”. What makes this film so brilliant is not only the writing, but the chemistry between Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman (the rest of the cast also did a wonderful job!). King is one of the best writers in the world, his best adaptations are always done by great directors. “The Shining” was brilliantly interpreted by Kubrick and of course “Misery” and “Stand By Me” are both by Rob Reiner. Then Frank Darabont comes onto the scene and makes arguably the best King film ever. (Btw. the movie was nominated for 7 Oscars, but didn’t win one. Forrest Gump was the big winner that year.)

Andy Dufresne, played by Tim Robbins, is a young and successful banker whose life changes drastically when he is convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for the alleged murder of his wife and her lover. Set in the 1940’s till the 1960’s, the film shows how Andy, with the help of his friend Red, played by Freeman, lives the prison life - we see the good and bad sides, corruption, injustice, friendship and more, basically a movie about two imprisoned men, who bond over a number of years, finding solace and eventual redemption through acts of common decency. After the jail director discovers Andy’s talent, he wants him to work for him and take care of his finances. But then Andy finds out, who really killed his wife, and wants to get out of jail (after serving 20 years innocently), so he plans his jailbreak.

Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hB3S9bIaco

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Based on the novel of Dennis Lehane directed by Clint Eastwood, starring Sean Penn, Tim Robbins and Kevin Bacon.

Childhood friends Jimmy Markum, Sean Devine and Dave Boyle reunite following the death of Jimmy’s oldest daughter, Katie. Sean’s a police detective on the case, gathering difficult and disturbing evidence; he’s also tasked with handling Jimmy’s rage and need for retribution. A great thriller, you don’t know who the “Murderer” is until the end.The acting is flawless and believable through out the whole film. “We bury our sins, we wash them clean. Here in Mystic River. “

Won 2 Oscars (Penn and Robbins)

Trailer:

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1956118809/

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