Movies/Commercial

Whether you would simply like to broaden your horizons when it comes to enjoying movies, or an aspiring film buff looking to increase your general knowledge of cinema, the sheer number of movies out there can be intimidating. It's easier now than ever to access a wide variety of both old and new movies, thanks to Netflix, cable movie channels, and Internet sites selling new and used copies of films.

If you'd like to try something new, but aren't sure what to look for, websites such as www.rottentomatoes.com and the Internet Movie Database (www.imdb.com) are searchable by title, director, and actor. Many actors and directors work across genres, so choosing a director or performer that you like and then looking for other things they have worked on could lead you to some interesting films outside of your usual preferences. Movie channels on cable usually group movies by category or genre, and Netflix recommends movies for you based on your preferences--both of which are good ways to look for something you haven't seen but may enjoy.

Independent video stores can be a good resource for finding new movies, because the staff are frequently film buffs themselves. Many colleges and universities have foreign film clubs which host viewings open to the general public, or host film festivals focused on specific genres or time periods. These are usually less expensive than large commercial movie theaters, and are a good way to meet other film enthusiasts.

If you aren't accustomed to watching old movies or foreign films but would like to give it a try, start with something closely related to movies you do enjoy. There's no need to jump straight into Les Enfants du Paradis if you aren't sure you like black and white films or lose interest reading subtitles. Similarly, if you love suspense films and want to try some classic films, you're probably better off starting with Alfred Hitchcock than Gone With the Wind.

Although there is intrinsic value in lists like "The 100 Best Movies of All Time," the only way to increase your enjoyment of viewing films is to learn what draws you to your favorite movies--be it tone, cinematography, dialogue, amazing special effects--and then look for films that share those qualities.