Now that Halloween has come and gone, if you are like me, you need a palette cleanser from the horror movie season before jumping straight into the Christmas movies. I like to start off by watching some of my favorite comedy movies to restore the balance.
Here are a few of my favorite annual watches:
1. The Waterboy (1998)
It is comedy and football. Perfect for the time of year. Starring Adam Sandler in his prime with outstanding performances from Kathy Bates and Henry Winkler.
2. Hot Fuzz (2007)
Probably my favorite comedy movie to date, starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. The perfect mix of straight forward humor with a bit of clever wordplay and foreshadowing if you pay close attention.
3. The Other Guys (2010)
Quotable and hilarious. It features actors in roles you expect and some that would surprise you. This is a great comedy movie with a story to match, starring Will Farrell and Mark Walberg.
4. The Austin Powers Trilogy
Three goofy movies. They make you laugh and feel good. So many parodies and quotes surround these movies that they are must-sees. Mike Myers in arguably his most iconic role(s).
5. V for Vendetta (2006)
November 5th should always be reserved for V for Vendetta. If you have seen it, you know why. For those who have not, I will not spoil it but, the short answer is that date is an important theme. It is a movie with great performances by Hugo Weaving, Natalie Portman, John Hurt and others. It’s a story about a Utopian world with some great action sequences and a bit of mystery. I would include this on movies everyone should see at least once.
6. The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Daniel Day-Lewis in his most famous role. A classic colonial story set during the Seven Years War between England and France in the American Colonies. Filled with time period appropriate attire and characters and based on the book with the same name, this movie is perfect for the autumn vibe.
7. Dances with Wolves (1990)
Set on the American Frontier around the end of the American Civil War. This classic film is one of the most visually stunning films ever made. The sets, diverse costumes and lighting will keep you glued to the screen the entire time. Great pace and character development. This is another movie I think everyone should see at least once. Kevin Costner stars, directs and produces this award winning-riddled classic.
I like these movies at this time of year, not because they are Thanksgiving movies but because Thanksgiving reminds me of the frontier and pioneer times.
I hope this gives you an idea for something a little different to try between the two big holidays this year. What other movie traditions do you have? Let us know in the comments.
By Winston Burney
Off the Shelf Media 
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