Top Ten Thursdays: Films of 1988

I was born in the lovely year of 1988, which witnessed a variety of important events. I am here to offer you a simple list of ten important films made that year.

10.) Bloodsport (1988)

This is a nostalgic favorite of mine that may as well be the only JCVD movie worth viewing.

9.) School Daze (1988)

Spike Lee's attempt at a musical, School Daze is undeniably hip to its time and definitely signifies the makings of Lee's follow up film Do The Right Thing.

8.) Big (1988)

This film snagged Tom Hanks an Oscar and is a significant film in relation to the advancement of female directors.

7.) Powaqqatsi (1988)

An experimental film, Powaqqatsi is a visual barrage that doubles as a music video and a thought-provoking social commentary.

6.) Grave of Fireflies (1988)

1988 was a good year for anime, and this sobering film about the realities of nuclear fallout is one of two animated films on this list.

5.) The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)

As if Gilliam's eye for magical realism were not enough, The Adventures of Baron Munchausen also features one of the zaniest cameos by Robin Williams to date.

4.) Tanner '88 (1988)

Forget the presidential movies of Oliver Stone, Tanner '88 is the most important and perhaps funniest thing to be made about contemporary politics to date.

3.) Akira (1988)

I placed this first on my top ten animated films and have placed it quite high on this list as well.  It is transcendental of its time and place and continues to prove relevant today.

2.) Cinema Paradiso (1988)

A gift of a film, Cinema Paradiso contains one of the most bittersweet closing montages to ever be filmed.

1.) The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

This is the only passion movie that matters.  Also, Peter Gabriel's soundtrack is glorious.











Honorable Mention

Alice (1988)
Mississippi Burning (1988)
Rain Man (1988)