Nolan’s Favorite Scenes: Part 1

Oftentimes, one scene can play a pivotal role in a film or embody its entire essence. I absolutely love to get lost in a scene whether it be because of terrific emotional acting, intricate or unique cinematography, or even just the pure joy that comes from a high energy dance number. The detail that can go into just one shot, or moment can be so impactful that it really resonates with me or totally blows me away.

Here are just a few of my favorite film scenes of all time that stay have stuck with me over the years. More parts to come!

Billy and Frank’s Conversation – The Departed

There’s a rumor that Frank’s side of the conversation was improvised by Nicholson. He was given some direction, but was free to say and do what he wanted. Leo’s character Billy had specific lines, but didn’t know what Jack was going to do. Here, Billy is already terrified about being found out by Frank’s organization, and having one actor allegedly unaware of where this scene was going really adds a layer of fear and tension. Frank is also afraid of being taken out by someone in his organization it’s fascinating to watch him unravel throughout the scene, lighting paper on fire, making some truly odd faces, and even killing and eating a fly. The lighting is also key here. It’s mostly overhead and harsh, mimicking an interrogation room. 

It’s a relatively simple scene but really showcases the acting talent of these two legends. 

Moon-Gwang’s Arrival – Parasite 

First of all, this movie is absolutely brilliant all-around. But the one scene that caught me off guard and blew me away was just after Moon-Gwang arrives at the door in the rain and it is revealed that her husband is being kept in the lower area of the basement. It’s almost exactly in the middle of the film and everything that follows starts going off the rails. The jarring shot from behind the family members as they follow the maid further down the cellar into a hidden bunker is incredible. The color scheme changes, the tension rises, and panic sets in. Bong Joon-Ho created such an unnerving feel in this scene and a stark contrast to the scene before with the family drinking and playing. As they spiraled down to the bunker, and the eerie score picked up, I was gripping the seat in the theater terrified of what the hell could be down there! Terrific writing, superb cinematography, and great panic acting makes this scene stay with me.

Theoden’s Rallying Speech at Pelennor FIelds – Return of the King

This scene is the definition of epic. 

“Ride now! Ride for ruin! And the world’s ending!” 

The delivery of this line is enough to make me want to jump on a horse and ride against Sauron’s armies. 

There’s something about the last time Theoden yells the word “Death” that jolts me and sends chills through my whole body. It is an octave higher than the first two times he chants, and has so much raw emotion inside it. I love the blending of the last yell into the cheering of thousands of soldiers behind him. Absolutely perfect cinema here as the camera gives a huge sweeping shot showcasing the full scale of special effects they crafted for this film.

The Forest Fight – Logan

The Wolverine scene I’d been wanting for a very long time! Thanks to James Mangold for finally unleashing the beast in all his visceral glory. From the first roar in the trees to the last “snikt” of the claws, this is a very violent scene, but it’s much more than just the action. It embodies everything about Wolverine. He’s full of rage, power, and sheer force of will, but only showcases this when he needs to protect those he truly cares about. He gives everything he has left to save the last remaining mutants and to give his daughter a chance at a new life. Hugh Jackman’s yell after he plunges his claws into the last soldier by the tree gets me jacked up and ready to run through a wall every time.

Cutting Scrooge Down – A Christmas Carol (1984)

To me, this is the best version of A Christmas Carol (besides The Muppets, of course). George C. Scott is the perfect Scrooge. The scene I love the absolute most is when the Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge that Tiny Tim may not survive. I’m drawn to this scene because it is one of the first moments when Ebenezer actually feels sadness and shows empathy for another person. The spirit delivers one extremely powerful line that cuts Scrooge to the core and brings a tear to my eye every year.

“Perhaps in the future you will hold your tongue before you know what the surplus population is. For it may be, that in the eyes of heaven, YOU are more worthless and unfit to live than MILLIONS like this poor man’s son.” 

Step in Time – Mary Poppins (1964)

The chimney sweep dance is full of delightfully high energy choreography from start to finish. As a kid I desperately wanted to be one of the sweeps running across the rooftops, clicking my heels and twirling a broom. The clever use of silhouettes throughout the dance adds playfulness and gives it a unique look. Dick Van Dyke’s smile and attitude are completely infectious. He is just a delight to watch. I dare you not to tap your feet while watching this number.