Reader Favorites

We asked readers to name the film they enjoyed most this year and briefly tell why. Responses were sometimes surprising, but always thoughtful and enthusiastic. Here's a sampling of what you told us:

Absolute Power

Clint Eastwood and Gene Hackman always deliver the goods. So do Ed Harris and E.G. Marshall. Similar to old-time suspense films of Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn, there were plenty of twists and turns that keep you at the edge of your seat. It was never boring. Great cast, good story, loads of suspense.

- Edward Hobart Tonkin

Bridgeport, Conn.

Shall We Dance?

It was such a relief from the violent "coming attractions." Loved the characters, their dignity, the fun, and the dancing!

- Kathryn H. Breslauer

Ashland, Ore.

I saw "Shall We Dance" four times. I saw something new every time. Poignant, humorous, uplifting.

- Mary Lee O'Neal

Sacramento, Calif.

The Full Monty

A well-made small-budget film; warmhearted and funny with touching moments of compassion for the plight of working-class men.

- Lynn Meng

Piscataway, N.J.

It was the funniest film I've ever seen! This was a great film. I never went without laughing for more than a minute. It was well done, not trashy!

- David F. Adams

Winchester, Mass.

L.A. Confidential

I walked out of the theatre knowing I had just seen the finest film achievement of 1997. A fresh take on an old theme with strong, well-acted characters, a gripping storyline, and classy cinematography. However, the promise of the 1996 crop of "Indies" has not produced any change in the Hollywood product. There is a still a huge fascination with brainless special effects and formulaic plots.

- Charlie Hayward

Grass Valley, Calif.

Wings of the Dove

Visually stunning. The whole film recreated Pre-Raphaelite paintings.

- C.S. Padgett

Athens, Ga.