by Bobby Coles

Created on: March 14, 2009   Last Updated: May 11, 2012

Every year, a plethora of films come cascading down from Hollywood, infiltrating local movie theatres. When the demographic the marketers are seeking is male, the films tend to come from the same ilk. Much of the tripe at the bottom of the barrel are films designed to get men into theatre seats. Pandering down to the lowest common denominator may give birth to a few chuckles, but, ultimately, men are also able to enjoy films of considerable depth.

The selection of movies that a guy will choose to watch invariably comes down to whether or not a female companion will be viewing the movie as well. A guy will watch mindless sequels and car chases late at night, and there is a wide spate of films available to satiate this desire. If you want to watch a movie while quaffing a few ales with the gents, that is where Will Ferrel movies come into play. Sequels allow men to watch half-heartedly because the formula is ingrained.

On any list of great movies that every guy must see should be a variety of genres, featuring uncontrollable laughter, heightened testosterone, violence, gore, and adult situations. There should also be some love interest, naturally. Movies that guys typically watch, when not coerced into the chick flick aisle, have macho leading men, sports, and a plethora of special effects. Great movies that every guy must see rarely include Oscar contenders, since those films tend to be heavy on acting, script, and direction. Men, at times, however, are willing to delve deep into a taut character study that is dialogue driven.

The Godfather part 1 and part 2 are a staple choice. The 3rd installment will be viewed out of loyalty to the series, but it is awful. The first two Godfather movies are a must see for every guy. The intricate workings of the mafia are put on display, complete with violence and rough dialogue. These films are not only essential to every guy, but they are some of the most deserving films of the accolades that have been heaped upon their mantle. The Godfather is a classic film, and possible outdone by the immediate sequel.

The Shawshank Redemption is one of, if not the best motion picture ever made. This classic film showed us the frailty of human nature, and the power of one man to persevere over his circumstances. Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman are sensational as a couple of convicts, one guilty, one innocent, who form a lasting bond that transcends the very walls that confine them together. The movie, based on a Stephen King novella,

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