So, something I'm curious about is how people define a "good movie." What is it about a movie that makes you sit in that seat and go "Man. That was excellent!" or "Oh my..this is pathetic..." Is there something in particular you look for in movies? What makes you get up and leave the theater, deciding it isn't even worth it to stick around?

I guess I ask this because I hear a lot of people tell me how horrible a movie is that I might have somewhat enjoyed. I know people have different tastes in styles and actors, but I'm asking what in particular REALLY makes the movie work for you? What factors go into you actually enjoying it (resting in the belief that movies are there to be entertaining...)

Hm...I'd have to say what makes a good movie is a good romance, something that plucks your heart strings, something that will make you cry, something with a REALLY good story line and plot, something that has the perfect anti and protagonist.

For me it's that hint of mystery, deception, or horror. I like being just as confused as the characters, and finding out whats going on as they do. Thats why I love Tim Burton, they're so dark and the endings unpredictable. ^.^

I'd have to say good dialogue is my number one, I hate it when your in a dramatic moment and the actors have pathetic or unrealistic lines. Thats another thing realism, it can be the most out-there escapism sci-fi/fantasy movie but I still want moments of realism to get me invested with the characters. Plot holes, are a big pet peeve of mine I hate when a movie will have huge inconsistencies. Lastly, I want to be surprised. To many times I guess exactly whats going to happen way before the end and that can get annoying.

The idea of what makes a movie for me really relies on the person viewing it.
For me, since I watch movies almost every single day. No, I don't have Netflix though I wish I did.
D;
A good storyline that's unusual..nothing predictable.
Good dialogue, and romance.

Good story, good cinematography, and good acting. Sometimes good music thrown in there too works if used right.

What makes a movie worth my while is its ability to make me laugh or smile. I can't sit through a bone-dry movie without doing something else. I like action and an in-depth plot as well. Usually movies that could be made into books by my standard. Not books made into movies... Those don't turn out well in my opinion unless I haven't read the book. :sweat: Quality CG is also a plus.

Something that keeps you interested, like DrewDarkHeart said, an interesting romance will keep you hooked, just to see what happens next. (for me anyway)

They don't make movies as good as they used to, that's for sure. The only drawback back in the old days was the long run-time. Entertainment has gotten so "drive-thru" like. Get in, get out.. type of thing.

There are differences between films for theatres, and films for home viewing. The only crossover I've seen recently has been Avatar. It was equally as good in the theatre as at home. Mainly because it was long enough to show tons of detail and keep you in the story for as long as possible.

It's funny how some films win oscars when they were mediocre in theatres, but seemed to be "okay" at home. When you're out and spending money to go out, you want to see something that will make you go WOW. Bright and loud explosions, violence, yadda yadda... all makes for good theatre films. The quieter stuff is more reserved for home viewing, when you can cuddle up with a tub of ice cream and a tissue. Most distributors know this, and center their marketing schemes for the home audience instead. Funny huh?

:]

I dunno, something really funny, intense or makes me cry

Originally Posted by Varuna

They don't make movies as good as they used to, that's for sure. The only drawback back in the old days was the long run-time. Entertainment has gotten so "drive-thru" like. Get in, get out.. type of thing.

There are differences between films for theatres, and films for home viewing. The only crossover I've seen recently has been Avatar. It was equally as good in the theatre as at home. Mainly because it was long enough to show tons of detail and keep you in the story for as long as possible.

It's funny how some films win oscars when they were mediocre in theatres, but seemed to be "okay" at home. When you're out and spending money to go out, you want to see something that will make you go WOW. Bright and loud explosions, violence, yadda yadda... all makes for good theatre films. The quieter stuff is more reserved for home viewing, when you can cuddle up with a tub of ice cream and a tissue. Most distributors know this, and center their marketing schemes for the home audience instead. Funny huh?

:]

Hmm..then what factors/characteristics do you think would make for both a good theater film and a film for home viewing?

What makes a movie a good movie depends on the subject matter & personal preference of everyone's interest xD There's no single way to define what is a good movie vs. what is a bad movie.

Originally Posted by Marguerite Blakeney

What makes a movie a good movie depends on the subject matter & personal preference of everyone's interest xD There's no single way to define what is a good movie vs. what is a bad movie.

lol I know. But I'm asking what people's definitions of a really good movie are. Sure, people have different tastes, but some ideas are bound to overlap. >.>

Haha, sorry I can't help it. Seriously there's just so many things to consider.

Well...there has to be a plot, that's for certain. Acting should not be so frigid (a reference to Twilight, obviously). You've gotta have the Freytag's Pyramid thing going on (dramatic structure): Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Denouement. Good soundtrack too because they definitely help.

Shakey cameras suck and sometimes make me sick.

haha ya, I'm not a fan of the shaky camera thing, either. XD No need to apologize, and I'm so glad you mentioned story structure. :lol:

Something that grabs your attention and keeps it throughout, whether it be with action, romance of twist to the storyline. But it shouldn't be over done either or it just makes it seem less appealing.