Feb. Cults & Classics: An obscure DiCaprio film and early days of comedy-horror

The winter time is not the biggest time for movie releases. In fact, it’s kind of a dead zone from January through March, so the search for cults and classics released within this time frame is definitely not the easiest. Every once and a while you find some gems, though.

This month’s Cults & Classics is a mix of movies released over the years in February — some you may have forgotten about, or never seen before.

“The Beach,” release date Feb. 2, 2000

‘The Beach,” stars a young Leonardo DiCaprio and Tilda Swinton. Leo’s acting shows just the tip of the iceberg of his eventual acting chops. This movie is definitely one of his more obscure roles, but I still adore this movie for its landscapes, and paradise vibes. It all seems so precious, to be within the moment of purity, and being on an island that no one knows about. Things are pure bliss — that is, until things go askew and the whereabouts of the island becomes known. This movie is a cult because it got panned by critics, probably because of its adaptation, which wasn’t true to the original book. Nonetheless “The Beach” is underrated and holds intrinsic value for original Leo fans as well as those who love masterful landscapes.

“The Harder They Come,” release date, Feb. 8, 1973

This is the story of Ivanhoe Martin, a character based upon a real-life Jamaican criminal of that name, played by reggae singer Jimmy Cliff.

As a young Jamaican man, he finds himself tied to corrupt record producers and drug pushers. I have always listened to all kinds of reggae, and the record, “The Harder They Come,” is one of the most underrated records ever. Although the film may not be a masterpiece, the music is.

This is also one of the biggest cult classics ever, and it is very entertaining. If you are a reggae fan, a Jimmy Cliff fan, or just appreciate music altogether, it is a must-see film.

“The Warriors,” released Feb. 9, 1975

This movie is really a bit of both, being a cult and a classic. Truly brilliant angst, violence, and original on all levels. After the leader of the most powerful gang in New York City, the Gramercy Riffs, gets killed, a gang called The Warriors are blamed. Turf wars follow. The concept is really timeless and sometimes captivating, even though the film may make some viewers cringe at times. But you’ll forgive the shortcomings in exchange for some exciting camera takes, the excellent use of music, and the good performance of David Patrick Kelly as the villainous Luther.

A great moment in the movie is when Kelly, clicking together three soda bottles, coaxes the Warriors out of hiding with his ominous chant, “Warriors, come out and play!”

“Saving Silverman,” released Feb. 9, 2001

This movie became the revolution of all early 2000 comedies, like the “American Pie”  series, and just about every other teen gag comedy of that era. “Saving Silverman,” however, is one of the few that actually worked with the help of actors like Jack Black and Steve Zahn. This cult classic still never fails to make me laugh, and the chemistry between all of the characters is seemingly effortless. The endless obsessions with Neil Diamond gives the film an endearing if not corny edge.

“Silence of The Lambs,” released Feb. 13, 1991

One of the most cringe-worthy movies made, “Silence of The Lambs” shall always live on, with Jodie Foster’s incredible detective skills and Anthony Hopkins’ brilliant performance that sends shivers down your spine. An absolute classic that will always top the lists of psychological horror films.

“The Breakfast Club,” released Feb. 15, 1985

Oh, John Hughes, how I’ve missed your artistic directing and presence that gave us the great inspirations throughout the ’80s. My most beloved of his films has to be this one right here, “The Breakfast Club.” I always admire movies that can be done in one single setting with an ensemble cast who bring all kinds of creativity to the mix. John Hughes’ pursuit in choosing these complete opposite actors really did help define a generation. Here you have it in a single school setting, the 1980s: from sushi to PB&J. The rich kid, the preppy girl, the bully, the jock, the weirdo, and the nerd. All who have come together to serve time for a Saturday detention. Undeniably, a classic.

“Army of Darkness,” Feb. 19, 1993

Where to begin with this cult masterpiece? “Army of Darkness,” takes satire down a road of medieval violence and horror. This was a movie that paved the way for a lot of different horror-comedies that followed. “Army of Darkness” is full of moments that spin out, from serious into fright-filled comedic relief. The film really shows what fun can be created in the world of filmmaking with strong writing, pure creativity, and just having fun.

“Office Space,” released Feb. 19, 1999

What’s not to love about “Office Space,” honestly? So many great quotable lines, like “Yeah, that’d be great,” and, “You took my stapler.” After all these years, it is still as funny as the first time I saw it. The fact of the matter is that this movie sometimes is overshadowed by “Clerks,” or “Jay and Silent Bob.” This only gives it more reason to be given the nod as a cult, right where it should be.

“Bottle Rocket,” released Feb. 21, 1996

“Bottle Rocket” starring Owen and Luke Wilson in their debut acting roles, was a great launching pad.  Also, it is a worthy showcase for director Wes Anderson. “Bottle Rocket” offers a long-lasting adventure, with poignant film shots, and clever dialogue to boot, all elements of this movie’s hidden treasures. It’s a movie that reminds you of films you’ve seen before, but not quite in the same way and style, certainly more eccentric and definitely a cult.

Jake Pendleton, 21, is a student at Nashua Community College. Born in Beverly, Mass., and raised in Milford, he enjoys writing about his passions which include sports, music, movies and all forms of entertainment. He also enjoys filmmaking and photography. Jake posts regularly at indieball.wordpress.com, and will be doing an internship with Manchester Ink Link this semester. He can be reached at jpendoy21@yahoo.com.