In the world of cinema, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Roger Ebert. A pioneer in film criticism, he became the first to win a Pulitzer Prize for his work, blending insightful analysis with an enduring passion for the art of filmmaking. Ebert was a film enthusiast at heart, a fact that colored his engaging reviews and thoughtful commentary.
Just a year before his passing in 2013, Ebert shared with the British Film Institute a list of his favorite films for their celebrated Sight & Sound poll. Among these selections, he reflected on five cinematic masterpieces that had significantly impacted him, saying they “moved me deeply in one way or another.â€Â
Timeless Classics that Move the Soul
Casablanca
First on Ebert’s list is Casablanca, the iconic 1942 war romance directed by Michael Curtiz. Ebert mused about its lasting appea“It’s not just the romance or the humor, but a deeper pride in its characters.†The film introduces us to Rick Blaine, portrayed by Humphrey Bogart, and the pragmatic police inspector played by Claude Rains. Their reluctant yet profound heroism at the film’s climax touches the core of human nature, reminding viewers that true valor often emerges amidst conflict. Ebert’s appreciation for these flawed yet relatable characters elevates the film into an enduring classic.
Citizen Kane
No list of cinematic treasures would be complete without Orson Welles’ Citizen Kane. Ebert described his experience of dissecting this film frame by frame, revealing layers upon layers of complexity. “It covers the entirety of a man’s life,†he reflected, exploring not only the triumphs but the emotional scars that haunt us. Ebert argued that the film’s real power lies in its ability to encapsulate profound human experiences in brief moments, presenting a tapestry of emotions that resonate long after viewing. Through its innovative narrative structure and technical brilliance, Citizen Kane remains a benchmark in film history.
Floating Weeds
Next, Ebert championed Floating Weeds, a film by the celebrated Japanese director Yasujiro Ozu. Describing Ozu’s unique cinematic language, Ebert invited viewers to delve into an alternative world of storytelling. The film follows a traveling acting troupe that returns to a village to confront buried emotions and familial bonds. Ebert noted how Ozu’s deceptively simple narrative style harnesses magnificent visual beauty, expertly capturing the subtleties of human connections and emotional revelations. It’s an experience that immerses viewers in a tranquil yet profound exploration of life’s complexities.
Gates of Heaven
In Gates of Heaven, directed by Errol Morris, curiosity transforms into deep existential reflection. Ebert saw this 1978 documentary as a meditation on life, death, and the idiosyncrasies of human nature rather than merely an exploration of pet cemeteries. Morris’s patient approach allows the subjects to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings. Ebert praised the film’s emotional resonance, highlighting the poignant stories that unfold, particularly the dialogue surrounding loss and the search for meaning in life. It’s a profound engagement with the human experience, layered and endlessly fascinating.
The Quest for Meaning in La Dolce Vita
La Dolce Vita
Finally, Ebert fondly regarded La Dolce Vita, Federico Fellini’s 1960 masterpiece, which captures the disillusionment of a man searching for love amidst the chaos of life. Ebert noted, “Forget about its superficial message; focus on the profound choreography of movement and sound.†The film follows Marcello Mastroianni’s character through his relentless pursuit of fulfillment, juxtaposing sacred moments with sensational experiences. It showcases Fellini’s signature style, blending existential themes with visual splendor. Ebert’s commentary on the deeper messages within its seemingly extravagant narrative reflects his understanding of cinema as a mirror of human conditions.