dear wvq:

The list I gave was my list of favourites.  It wasn't a list of bests (yes, I do make a distinction).  The only film that DOES appear on both of my lists is CITIZEN KANE.  None of the other films on the list I posted here are what I would call masterpieces.  They are films I watch again and again for because they make me feel good (they are FAVOURITES)  I said that I use the "Magnificent Ambersons test" (as I like to call it) as a test to see if CRITICS who compile "Best of" list are being objective or not.  I do not expect objectivity from "lay persons" who do not watch films for a living (although I do think more objectivity WOULD help to increase film literacy).  I did not know you were a professional critic (what paper or magazine do you write for?), so I am sorry if I offended you!  Please accept my apology.