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Question of the Day (QOTD) is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a film/TV-related question that we put to you, the reader. The comments section below is like the feedback box at work, except, in this example, we actually read what you write and care about what you have to say.
Most movies we watch that we think are great usually fall straight into the “rewatchable” category for most movie lovers. Movies we watch over and over again, whether it’s on TV, we own the DVD, or find it on a streaming service. However, occasionally we find truly cinematic masterpieces where one, maybe two, watches are enough.
As great as the directing, acting, cinematography, or dialogue is, we recognize the greatness of the film, but there is no need to return to it multiple times or ever again in some cases. Even if you were to rank it high on an all-time list, that last watch was good enough, and you feel no need to ever return to it.
So, the question I ask today is: What is the best movie you never want to watch again?
For me, I could probably list several of the all-time greatest films. Most are movies that I have watched simply as a cinephile trying to check certain boxes to say, “Yeah, I saw that all-time great.” Sometimes it has been because I have tried to fill in some blind spots from directors or eras. Usually, it’s the best place to start.
At times, I recognize the film’s greatness, and as soon as the credits start rolling, I can honestly say to myself, “I will never watch that again.” Most notably, and the one that sticks out in my mind, is Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List. It is arguably one of the greatest films ever. As masterful as it is in every aspect, my second watch a few years ago was enough for me.
My first watch was when the film was originally released, but I was too young to fully grasp the gravity of it. I never really cared to return to it, so I put it off for a couple of decades. I was awestruck by it when I finally decided to give it a second watch. The beauty and the horror of it, combined with the directing, cinematography, and acting, captured me. It is so haunting and devastating that my second watch was good enough for a lifetime. As great and masterful as Schindler’s List is, it’s one of the greatest films I never want to watch again.
Let me know your answers in the comments! What is the best film you never want to watch again and why?
