The best movies were born in the '80s

We all have our own opinions as to the best movies that have ever been produced. There are tons of charts and lists of the movies that have been polled to be the classics of all audiences, and the movies that have grossed the most in the theater. I, however, do not base my eight best movies on these charts, because then I would have to include Titanic, which is possibly the worst movie I have ever seen in my life. Call me crazy, or call me uneducated on the criteria of an outstanding, unforgettable movie, but I'm sure all of you will agree with me on at least one of my choices. If not, well, I think you should seriously reconsider. Here goes, in no particular order, simply because my favorite depends on what mood I'm in:

1. Say Anything. If you haven't seen it, drop whatever you're doing right now and rent it, I don't care if you have a midterm tomorrow. Say Anything has been compared to Pretty in Pink and Breakfast Club for far too long. A supersweet, not so well known high school grad (a studly John Cusack) asks out the valedictorian, and the two grow and experience "things" for the first time together. Sounds like a typical formula for a movie, but the clothes are fabulous, the actors are hilarious (especially the girl who tries to get over her ex by writing songs about him for her guitar), and it made Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes" the pinnacle song of romance. Need I say more?

2. Fried Green Tomatoes. The first time I saw this movie, I cried after the opening 20 minutes or so, and then I just kept on crying. It's a movie that's set in the south and told by a woman (Jessica Tandy) in a nursing home who recounts life in a small town called Whistlestop during the mid-1900s. It's a captivating story dealing with racial prejudice, domestic disturbance, southern culture, best friends and murder. With the all-star cast giving unparalleled performances, it's a must see.

3. The Godfather Trilogy. What would be a list of the best movies of all time without it? These movies will be revered for all of time. For the longest time, I assumed that they were just macho guy "kill everyone" flicks. My brother refused to let me have this opinion and set aside an entire afternoon/evening to make me watch them. I haven't been the same since. You get hooked on the first within the first 15 minutes, and then you have no choice but to watch the next two immediately afterward. I would explain the premise of this Italian Stallion filled trilogy, but if you don't know it already, then I truly feel for you. You must be un-American.

4. When Harry Met Sally. There hasn't as hilarious a duo as Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal since, and I think it's safe to say that there never will be. This is undeniably the classic romance-comedy. The scene of Meg Ryan faking an orgasm at the restaurant is one that will be remembered by all. This movie will never get old. You could watch it again and again ? I know I've probably seen it over 20 times, at least. In fact, I think I'll go watch it right now.

5. American Beauty. Kevin Spacey is one of my favorite actors, and his role in this movie is his best. Even though this movie is a little extreme ? we all have messed up families, but they're really not that messed up ? there is definitely something for all of us to relate to. The overall message is that life is beautiful, and that no matter what crappy hand you're dealt, your time on this planet is precious. And we all have to give kudos to a producer who can not only include a 40 year old guy going for a 16 year old, but also the same guy jerking off in more than one scene. That's got to take guts. "You rule!"

6. Forrest Gump. Some people say that this is one of the stupidest movies they've ever seen, but I think they just don't have the maturity to appreciate it. You fall in love with the main character (played by Tom Hanks) from the start, and spend the rest of the movie hoping that somehow his precious Jenny will wake up and fall in love with him too. The movie is set in a time that will be remembered throughout all of American history, leading up to, including, and following the Vietnam War. You grow to love all of the characters, including the unforgiving Lieutenant Dan.

7. The Star Wars Trilogy. What would Thanksgiving be without it?! I must emphasize that this does not include the most recent addition to the Star Wars series. I personally think that Episode I paled in comparison, and was almost an insult to the timeless classics. These movies have everything you could possibly want-romance, sci-fi, action, drama (I am your father), Harrison Ford, and a horribly disgusting yet endearing human-size dog-type creature named Chewbacca. It doesn't get any better than that.

8. Mallrats. A movie during which the majority of two hours actually takes place in a mall. Jay and Silent Bob. Shannon Doherty, Claire Forlani and Jeremy London. This is a masterpiece of director Kevin Smith, and in my opinion, it is his best. You just can't top a smartass like Brody, don't you agree? Such a simple movie, and yet there's undeniably something about it.