“12 Years a Slave”
This Oscar winning powerhouse tells the story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who, in 1841, was abducted from his bed and sold into slavery. With incredible performances from Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender, this is a great movie hands down.
“Cinderella Man”
Russell Crowe plays James Braddock, a former boxing champion hit hard by the Great Depression. Masterful filmmaking and an inspiring true story equal a great film.
“The Fighter”
Another boxing drama, this one focuses on Micky Ward, his drug addicted brother Dickie and the intense drama that follows. From the director of “Silver Linings Playbook” and “American Hustle,” this is a fun, hard-hitting movie.
“127 Hours”
James Franco plays Aron Ralston, a Colorado climber who ended up pinned to a rock wall for 127 hours and committed a daring and unbelievable act to survive. With a beautiful performance by Franco and intimate drama, this will tug at the heartstrings and leave you affected for life.
“Pain & Gain”
Believe it or not, Michael Bay’s crazy crime thriller about bodybuilders who run an extortion ring is a true story. Even though it may not scream inspiring, it’s an entertaining movie that’s worth a watch.
“Saving Mr. Banks”
A thoroughly engrossing and emotional movie, “Saving Mr. Banks” tells the untold story of how “Mary Poppins” went from page to screen. Funny, heartbreaking and inspiring, this is one of the best untold stories of all time.
“50/50”
When Will Reiser was diagnosed with cancer, he wrote the screenplay for this uplifting film about how one man can beat the odds. Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen and Anna Kendrick, this incredible film tells a simple, yet compelling story.
“Good Night, and Good Luck”
George Clooney directs this true tale of Edward R. Murrow, a famed broadcast journalist who puts his career on the line when he takes on the controversial topic of Senator Joseph McCarthy. Filmed in black and white, this short but sweet drama goes all out to show the great lengths people will go to stand up for what’s right.
Bradley Burgess can be reached at [email protected]