Multimedia superpower Warner Bros celebrates their 90th anniversary of entertaining the world this year. What’s a better tribute than looking back at the best films and shows this powerhouse has produced? Here are my favourite five Warner Bros hits (in no particular order, I’m too indecisive to rank them!):
1. The Harry Potter Series
The Harry Potter series have become an emblem of a generation. I challenge you to find anyone who hasn’t at least heard of them!
Like many, my passion for the series began with J K Rowling’s novels. I still remember talking about the first book with my teacher at primary, and being too young to be able to read the word ‘moustache’! But many only know Harry Potter through the Warner Bros films; they are pretty much true to the book and have an infallible cast. Going to the cinema to see the films have become as much of a tradition as going to the supermarket at midnight to buy the books was!
Both the Harry Potter novels and films will stand the test of time without doubt. I anticipate in 50 years time I will be forcing my grandchildren to watch all the films and read all the books, and I’m sure they will enjoy them as much as I have throughout my childhood!
2. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Despite being released over 20 years before I was born, the original film version of Roald Dahl’s iconic book is still one of my favourite films (and is much better than the more modern version starring Johnny Depp!). The effort put into the set of the chocolate factory makes the film spectacular viewing, and the timelessness of the plot and musicality ensures that this film won’t be disappearing any time soon. I still watch my DVD version of the film every Christmas!
3. Inception
I was shocked to discover that Inception was in fact a Warner Bros film. I always associate Warner Bros with films for children! Inception is one of my favourite films of the 21st century. Not only does it star Leonardo DiCaprio, the psychologically disorientating plot makes for captivating viewing and ensures you watch it over and over just to make sure you know what the hell is going on!
The visual effects of this film are superb and add to the confusion for the audience. It’s not surprising that Inception was a box office hit for Warner Bros.
4. The Wizard of Oz
Another timeless classic, particularly at Christmas time, this film highlights that films don’t necessarily need breathtaking effects to be adored by any generation. Yes, the costumes of the lion and co look dated, but it adds to the tradition of the film. It’s quite hard to believe that this film was released in 1939, a lifetime ago, yet it still holds a tender place in the nation’s heart; we still all gather round on Christmas evening in our brand new pyjamas to watch it, passing on the tradition to the younger generations.
5. Sherlock Holmes
One of the funniest films I’ve seen, Robert Downey Jr really brings the character of Sherlock Holmes into the 21st century and reignites excitement in detective dramas. Sherlock Holmes is the perfect film for anyone: it has action for the boys, a hint of romance and eye candy (hello Jude Law) for the girls and it’s also family friendly. Nothing beats the Holmes and Watson bromance!
So there you have it, my top 5 Warner Bros movies. What are yours?
