Top 11 Most Marriageable Female Characters

A list of the most attractive female characters in movies or television shows. A list only a single man could make.

Looks certainly have a little bit to do with making this list, but personality (you're welcome Mom) and all around awesomeness make up the majority.

11. Emily Blunt as Elise Sellas in "The Adjustment Bureau"

She's destined to be with someone else, but fuck destiny. Seriously, destiny is kind of like a one-way street, there's always gonna be that person that misses the signs. You can't always play by the rules. And who wouldn't change their fate for a gorgeous, athletic, sarcastic woman who walked into the men's room and started making out with them? Did I mention she's British. That means a cute english accent...and in most other cases bad teeth and bland food but not with Elise. Elise is focused and driven, but she's willing to give everything up for love. And that's someone anyone would be lucky to find.

No Rules

10. Zooey DeShanel as Jovie in "Elf"
Sweet lord! That voice and those eyes no one could resist. Zooey DeShanel is the cutest actress around and her characters follow suit. Jovie is introduced as a sort of annoyed, unhappy shopping mall elf. She, like everyone else, is a little creeped out by Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell); but is one of the first to discover his genuine goodness and innocence. Also, let us not forget she helped save Christmas. That definitely puts her on the nice list.

Baby It's Cold Outside

9. Emma Stone as Wichita in "Zombieland"
Maybe not a character people would think about right off the bat, but Wichita is kind of a badass. Before the Zombie apocalypse Wichita was a con artist using her good looks and innocent little sister to scam money off of love struck losers. Her con skills transformed to survival skills creating a self-sufficient and maybe a little harsh persona. She's funny in a sarcastic and mean way, but as the movie progresses she opens up and begins to believe things could be good again. Definitely somebody you want on your side if the dead reanimate. Plus, she's easy on the eyes especially considering most of the population is pasty gray and deteriorating.

The Quiet Game

8. Elisha Cuthbert as Danielle in "The Girl Next Door"
Yes she is a porn star, but she's probably the sweetest, coolest, most down-to-earth porn star around. She could totally go to bingo night with Grandma and have a good time. Danielle is trying to get away from the porn industry and that environment, and in the process she is helping her new neighbor break out of his shell. The great thing about her character is that she's not ashamed of who she was. However, she also knows she is so much more then solely a porn star and is eager to explore her possibilities. She's sincerely a good person who honestly falls in love with a genuinely normal, inexperienced (in life and other things) nerd; and she just happens to be "porn star" hot.

Bingo Night

7. Jennifer Aniston as Polly Prince in "Along Came Polly"
There's a lot of truth to the saying "opposites attract" aside from obvious in magnets, but it takes a lot of work. Polly Prince is a little spacey, not particularly motivated, and terrified of settling down. However, her best quality is her openness to someone totally different. It takes serious panache to attempt creating a relationship with someone basically your opposite. Polly changes throughout the movie, but we (the audience) also see how she influences her counterpart Reuben Feffer (Ben Stiller). They're good qualities influence each other and in turn creates a powerful romance. It also doesn't hurt that she's uber sexy. Uber Sexy!

Nuts

6.Michelle Monaghan as Christina Warren in "Source Code"
She's beautiful, she's kind, and she's painfully honest. "Source Code" is primarily not a love story. It is more of a sci-fi/psychological thriller, and yet the character Christina Warren pulls on all the major heartstrings. She wins us over 8 minutes at a time, but frankly that smile could win anyone over instantaneously. The chemistry in this movie is so so strong especially given the limited time these characters have with each other. If I were to only live the same 8 minutes over and over, I think I would be okay with it if Christina Warren was always there sitting across from me.
Painfully Honest

5. Marion Cotillard as Adriana in "Midnight in Paris"

In the simplest terms, Adriana is sexy. She's a 1920's mistress in the best way possible. She becomes the inspiration to one of Pablo Picasso's most famous paintings and she had a huge influence on Ernest Hemmingway. Yet, the sexiest thing about her is falling for the ordinary kind of defeated Gil (Owen Wilson). Adriana is something of a muse, but she's also authentic and refreshingly approachable. She is the type of girl that has seen a lot and been a lot of places, and because of this Adriana is open to new adventures. If you could hold on to her, Adriana would never provide a dull moment.
Nice Face

4. Anna Friel as Charlotte "Chuck" Charles in "Pushing Daisies"
Is it wrong to be in love with a dead chick? I guess if she's brought back to life then it's okay. Chuck is the most wonderfully attractive zombie in entertainment history. Of course she's not like a zombie in how they're mindless, decrepit drones; but in how they died and came back to life. Ned "the pie maker" has the ability to bring dead things back to life, but if he touches them again they'll die forever. This little "catch" to Ned's power poses some issues for the two in love, but it speaks even more to the character of the beautifully colorful Charlotte Charles for sticking with him. She helps solve crimes, she looks adorable.

No Touchy

3. Evangaline Lily as Kate Austen in "LOST"
Freckles, fugitive, flight 815 survivor, mother; Kate could claim any of those describers, but more than anything Kate Austen's a Badass. Basically she's a combination of two other "LOST" characters, Sawyer and Jack. At times she's more than a little emotionally unstable and reckless, but that instability is fueled by her passion (Sawyer). She can also be thoughtful and caring to the extreme and take all responsibility (Jack). But the bottom line is when the time comes for taking action, she doesn't hesitate. She's smokin' hot while protecting you from smoke monsters.
Smokin'

2. Rachel McAdams as Claire Cleary in "Wedding Crashers"
"Crab cakes and football, that's what Maryland does!" It also created one of the greatest settings for the most intoxicating chemistry. Claire is the kind of girl your mother would be proud of and your friends would approve of. She'll make fun of your friends in a comfortable "being part of the gang" sort of way. Then on the other end, completely polite and gracious around the "rents". Now, if being totally adorable, witty, and outgoing doesn't attract you then you're probably lobotomized and nurse Ratched is reading this post to you which of course you can't understand. Oh and one more thing, Claire's rich.

Belgian Waffle Maker

1. Mila Kunis as Rachel Jansen in "Forgetting Sarah Marshall"
Mila Kunis is gorgeous no doubt about it, and she's known to date less than attractive guys (sorry Macaulay). But we aren't talking about Mila, we're talkin' about Rachel Jansen. She's adventurous, a little crazy, and has no problem throwing out some tongue-in-cheek observations. Most of all, she gets it. And if you don't know what "it" is than you don't get it. Kapeesh? Unfortunately, most of "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" takes place in Hawaii and we have to endure the abundance of short shorts and tank tops. If you can stomach the skin , you won't have a problem falling in love with Rachel Jansen. As great as Rachel Jansen is, her falling for a kind of goofy, normal guy makes her the number one most desirable character.
Die. Die. Die. I Can't.

Honorable Mention:

Hermione Granger from Harry Potter- The only reason she didn't make the top 11 is because she's better in the books. I couldn't put her on the list because "book Hermione" is so great, and I didn't want to take away from that.

Uhura from "Star Trek"- She's a total babe and a badass, but she goes for Spock? Spock's pretty lame.

Jamie Palamino from "Just Friends"- Because when Jamie smiles it takes me miles.

Belle from "Beauty and the Beast"- She's smart, brave, and incredibly lovely. She also falls for the ugly dude, so yeah she's pretty much got it all.

Carrie from "Carrie"- Hot.

Part II: Top 11 Active/Current Singer Songwriters

Note: Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and Paul McCartney are legends and still active and current, but they are not on this list because I wouldn't have anything new or interesting to say about them. Plus, them being on the list isn't really fair to the other artists on this list.

Honorable Mention: Pete Yorn, Alison Krauss (You can't really separate her from the Union Station Band), Joshua Radin, Emmylou Harris, Ray LaMontagne, Sufjan Stevens, David Gray, Dolly Parton, Norah Jones, Missy Higgins.

11. Taylor Swift “Country Pop”

There is no denying Taylor swift is talented. She writes most of her own material, plays the guitar, and really does have a beautiful voice. Now most of her songs are pretty simple and are typically about love or heartbreak, but let’s face it, a lot of the best songs are about those two. To put in perspective how talented she is, Taylor is only twenty-one years old and she’s produced three multi-platinum albums. Her songs may be simple but they’re certainly meaningful and obviously relate-able across the country and world.

Favorite Lyrics: “You lift my feet off the ground
You spin me around
You make me crazier, crazier
Feels like I'm falling and I am lost in your eyes
You make me crazier, crazier, crazier” Crazier (Single)

(“Back to December” Video)

10. Andrew Bird “Indie Rock/Folk”

Andrew Bird is a very unique musician. He doesn’t necessarily have a beautiful voice, but it’s interesting and enticing. What Bird is certainly not lacking in is creativity and talent. He is an accomplished violinist, he plays guitar, and he is an expert whistler. Yep he’s probably the best whistling singer-songwriter out there. With Bird’s calm voice and violin, many of his songs start out beautiful and soothing and sort of lure one into a sense of security, but then he can quickly change to some heavy notes and belt out an anthem when necessary. His creativity is so abundant and palpable through his lyrics and musical compositions.

Favorite Lyrics: “When I was just a little boy
I threw away all of my action toys
I became obsessed with operation
Hearts and minds and certain glands
You got to learn to keep a steady hand
And thus began my morbid fascination” Dark Matter (Armchair Apocrypha)

(“Imitosis” Video)

9. ADELE “Pop/Soul”

Adele, similar to Taylor Swift, is a young singer-songwriter that has already gained much fame and success. Her first album “19” debuted at number one and went four times platinum in the UK. Her follow up album “21” debuted at number one on the Billboard Top 200 and the UK album chart along with the number one spot in 16 other European countries. Adele isn’t your typical female singer-songwriter. Yes she has a wonderful voice and great songwriting talent, but she’s not the pin-up doll like some others. And that speaks more to the power of her voice and pure, exclusive talent.

Favorite Lyrics: “I like it in the city when the air is so thick and opaque
I love to see everybody in short skirts, shorts and shades
I like it in the city when two worlds collide
You get the people and the government
Everybody taking different sides” Hometown Glory (19)

(“Chasing Pavements” Video)

8. Ingrid Michaelson “Indie Pop/Folk”

The lyrics of Ingrid Michaelson really make her stand out in the large genre of female singer-songwriters. She is a very artistic songwriter with a unique sort of “cutsie” voice (that goes along nicely with her cutsie face/body). Her voice is really good, but it wouldn’t be described as powerful. So, what really sets her apart are her lyrics. She does a great job at writing fun; interesting songs that express perfectly what people feel in certain situations. The ability to relate to her songs can be seen all over the media. Her songs have been used in shows like: Grey’s Anatomy, One Tree Hill, Kyle XY, Parenthood, and Ugly Betty.

Favorite Lyrics: “I'll never say I'll never love
But I don't say a lot of things
And you my love are gone” The Chain (Be OK)

(“The Way I Am” Video)

7. John Mayer “Blues Rock/Pop Rock”

John Mayer knows what the people like and delivers. He may not please everyone with his off-stage antics, but they can’t claim he’s not a talented musician and songwriter. Every major album John Mayer has produced (“Room for Squares”, “Heavier Things”, “Continuum”, and “Battle Studies”) has gone multi-platinum. Mayer’s won 7 Grammy Awards and has been nominated 18 times. Many of his songs contain meaningful, passionate lyrics and that accompanied with his sultry voice tend to attract moms and young girls, but his skill as a guitarist really makes him appealing to everyone.

Favorite Lyrics: “Belief is a beautiful armor
But makes for the heaviest sword
Like punching under water
You never can hit who you're trying for
Some need the exhibition
And some have to know they tried
It's the chemical weapon
For the war that's raging on inside” Belief (Continuum)

(“Gravity” Live)

6.Josh Ritter “Folk/Alternative Country/Rock”

Josh Ritter is an amazing story teller. The songs he writes are actually fairly complex stories. Some of the stories he’s told through his music include ones about mummies coming back to life ”The Curse”, World War III and the apocalypse “The Temptation of Adam”, and the absurdity of politics and going to war “Girl in the War”. Furthermore, “The Curse and “The Temptation of Adam” are also love songs. His songs are layered with various meanings and metaphors of current events. In order for these stories to be heard, he has combined them with beautiful melodies and sung through an interestingly striking voice.

Favorite Lyrics: “Was it Casey Jones or Casey at the Bat?
Who died out of pride and got famous for that
Killed by a swerve laid low by the curve
Do you ever think they ever thought they got what they deserved?” To The Dogs or Whoever (The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter)

(“The Temptation of Adam” Video)

5. Iron and Wine “Folk”

Sam Beam better known as Iron and Wine is a creative genius. The first song that got him some serious recognition was actually a cover song. “Such Great Heights” originally from the indie-electronic band The Postal Service (a side project of Death Cab for Cutie’s lead singer Ben Gibbard) was slowed down and covered by Iron and Wine. The cover song was included in the film and soundtrack for Garden State, as well as, an M&M’s commercial. As good as most of Iron and Wine songs are, Sam Beam would have made this list if he had just completed one, “The Trapeze Swinger”. “The Trapeze Swinger” is a nine and a half minute song that is completely perfect. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful and smart and so so wonderful. But really everything he’s done is great and should be listened to.

Favorite Lyrics: “But please remember me, fondly

I heard from someone you’re still pretty

And then they went on to say that the Pearly Gates
Had some eloquent graffiti

Like ‘We’ll meet again’ and ‘Fuck the man’

And ‘Tell my mother not to worry’” Trapeze Swinger (Single)

(“Boy With a Coin” Video)

4. Randy Newman “Jazz Rock/Piano Rock"

Randy Newman is probably one of the greatest active songwriters. He dishes them out like there’s nothing to it. Most of his songs come from the perspective of a character in the song, and they also tell stories. One of his biggest hits “Short People” is written from the perspective of a lunatic who is basically prejudice towards short people. Obviously the meaning behind the song is that it’s crazy to be prejudice towards anyone. He is so brilliant with his song writing it is easy to get lost in the lyrics, and he started out his career primarily as a writer for other singers. Most people know Randy Newman through his success with the Disney films: Toy Story, A Bug’s Life, Toy Story 2, Monsters, Inc., and Toy Story 3. And of course he ended up winning Academy Awards for Best Original Song from Monsters, Inc. and Toy Story 3. However, he was nominated for fifteen other film scores or original songs (The Natural, Pleasantville, and Meet the Parents to name a few) before he won his first with Monsters, Inc. ; making Newman at the time the most nominated without a win. Regardless, he is still probably the most gifted songwriters and composers today.
Favorite Lyrics: “Grab somebody, come on down.

Bring your paintbrush, paintin’ the town.
There’s some sweetness goin’ ’round,
Catch it down in New Orleans.” Down in New Orleans (Princess and the Frog Soundtrack)

("Political Science" Live)

3.Matt Pond “Indie Rock”

Matt Pond is the lead singer and primary songwriter for the band Matt Pond PA, and honestly the only consistent member of this “band” is Matt Pond, which is important if the band is named after you. Regardless of the varying support, Matt Pond PA Albums continue to impress. He writes such great lyrics and melodies that it’s easy to relate to the stories he tells through his songs. He writes about emotions or situations most everyone has experienced and that is why many of his songs strike emotional cords. Matt Pond continuously creates songs that never really expire. His sound, his voice, and his lyrics are fresh and will never sound dated no matter what’s popular. His songs conjure memories, and a great memory can never grow old.

Favorite Lyrics: "We stand on ledges, kick our feet and throw our shoes

I tried to move a little closer, nothing left for me to lose
There is no argument to get me going hoarse
Misplaced my mind and now I do not have to worry about before." Starting (The Dark Leaves)

("Locate the Pieces" Video)

2. Brett Dennen “Folk”

Brett Dennen has an amazing voice that perfectly complements his laid back yet often rebel rousing songs. His sound can be reminiscent of some musical greats in folk, acoustic, and reggae; and yet his sound is also astoundingly original. He pleads through his lyrics for change, revolution, and for people to just see the world as it really is. “I Asked When” is a perfect example of a song pleading for revolution and asking those to really take a good look at the current situation. Other songs are not as politically influenced but still tell powerful tales of love or heartache. His lyrics are meaningful and eloquent and because of his knack for powerful, evocative songs he has gained critical praise. Rolling Stone Magazine named him as an artist to watch and Entertainment Weekly categorized him as one of the eight “Guys on the Rise”. Brett Dennen is authentic.

Favorite Lyrics: “I wonder how so many can be in so much pain,
While others don't seem to feel a thing
Then I curse my whiteness,
And I get so damn depressed,
In a world with suffering,
Why should I be so blessed?” There is So Much More (So Much More)

(“Ain’t No Reason” Video)

1. Regina Spektor “Anti-folk/Indie Rock”

Regina Spektor has one of those gorgeous, unique voices that complement her creatively distinctive and quirky lyrics that in turn complement her matchless piano and guitar arrangements. It’s not necessarily one thing that makes her music so wonderful, it is the whole package. Every little aspect adds more color to her material including her good-looks, sweet personality, and her artistic swagger. Similar to Randy Newman, Spektor often writes her songs through the perspective of a character (they are not typically autobiographical). Regina may be one of the harder working artists out there today. She is constantly touring and releasing new albums. Furthermore, she has done more than a dozen live televised performances on late night talk shows and early morning shows. Currently, she is writing the music for the musical Beauty, a modern adaptation of Sleeping Beauty, which will be opening on Broadway. So really what can’t she do.

Favorite Lyrics: “So we made our own computer
Out of macaroni pieces
And it did our thinking
While we lived our lives
It counted up our feelings
And divided them up even
And it called our calculation
Perfect love

Didn't even know
That love was bigger” The Calculation (Far)

(“Fidelity” Video)

Part I: Top 11 Best Active/Current Bands

I'd rather be floating in a life raft than sinking in a cruise ship.
So, In order to get over my writers block due to a creativity rut; I feel it is necessary to write something down. I have decided on listing the best music to be heard from current bands (Part I) and current singer-songwriters (Part II).



Honorable Mention (In Order): Shout Out Louds, The Decemberists, Counting Crows (Haven't been current in awhile), Death Cab for Cutie, The Avett Brothers, Weezer, Seabear, Alkaline Trio, Augustana, Phoenix, Bloc Party, The Weakerthans, Wilco, The Weepies

11. FUN. “Indie Pop/ Progressive Rock”
The name really says it all, this band is fun. Fun. formed when lead singer, Nate Reuss, broke up with his previous band, The Format (an awesome band), and got together with Andrew Dost of Anathallo and Jack Antonof of Steel Train. The depression over The Format’s break up was quickly obliterated when Fun’s first singles became available. Their sound is similar to The Format’s “Dog Problems” record (probably due to Nate’s distinctive voice), but it’s even more theatrical. With three talented musicians all the songs on their debut album “Aim and Ignite” are very artistic and catchy, but what sets this band apart is wonderfully colorful lyrics.
Favorite Lyrics: “I swear when I grow up,
I won’t just buy you a rose.
I will buy the flower shop,
And you will never be lonely.” The Gambler (Aim and Ignite) Album in parentheses.
(“All the Pretty Girls” Video)

10. The National “Indie Rock”
The National has been together since 1999, but like most good bands didn’t find much fame until much later. In 2005, The National’s third album “Alligator” brought them their first bit of popularity. Many reviewers added it to their Albums of the Year list. “Boxer” The National’s fourth album increased their popularity and produced numerous hit singles. Finally, their latest album “High Violet” reached #3 on the Billboard Top 200. Their baritone lead vocalist, Matt Berninger, and projecting bass and drum lines make this band stand out in their genre.
Favorite Lyrics: “You know I dreamed about you
For 29 years before I saw you
You know I dreamed about you
I missed you for, for 29 years” Slow Show (Boxer)
(“Bloodbuzz Ohio” Video)

9. Trampled By Turtles “Bluegrass”
Along with having one of the best names in the business,Trampled by Turtles might be the most instrumentally talented bands on this list (at least at their particular instruments). They have an amazing mandolin, banjo, and fiddle player along with great lead vocals, guitar, and bass. This Minnesota bluegrass outfit is most famous for the high energy, fast paced songs. However, some of their best stuff is the slower lyrical ballads from lead singer, guitarist Dave Simonett. Their latest album “Palomino” charted at #1 on the U.S. Bluegrass top Albums. They are definitely one of the more entertaining bands to see live.
Favorite Lyrics: “My home is with the hills and trees around me
My ceiling holds the moon and stars above
So I'll never be a lonely man a'walking
I'll never live one day without love.” Whiskey (Songs from a Ghost Town)
(“Wait So Long” Video)

8. Radiohead “Alternative Rock/Electronic”
Who doesn’t know Radiohead? They’ve been prominent since the early 90’s and even though their sound changes every decade, they’re staying relevant and producing great music. The only reason they aren’t higher ranked (lower numbered) on this list is because their latest album “King of Limbs”is not yet quite as influential as their previous work. “Not Yet” are the key words here, Radiohead has a knack for being a little ahead of the time, and I’m sure the more it's listen to it, the more everyone will realize how genius it is. Moreover, you have to respect a band that has been together since 1985 and has maintained the same members. Loyalty goes a long way.
Favorite Lyrics: “Jigsaw falling into place
There is nothing to explain
Regard each other as you pass
She looks back, you look back

Not just once, not just twice“ Jigsaw Falling Into Place (In Rainbows)
(“Fake Plastic Trees” Video)

7. Kings of Leon “Alternative Rock/Southern Rock”
Most people are familiar with the Kings of Leon by now, but when they first started in 1999 very few knew who they were. It wasn’t until the second album “Aha Shake, Heartbreak” that they started to get noticed. Songs like “Taper Jean Girl”, “The Bucket”, and “King of the Rodeo” really started to launch the Kings of Leon… at least in the UK. In fact, they didn’t really become the superstars they are until their fourth album “Only By the Night”, which of course is pretty great even if it has been played way too much. Their newest album “Come Around Sundown” did not disappoint and they continue to make hit singles like the song “Pyro”.
Favorite Lyrics: “Get back on track, pick me up some bottles of booze
Fickle freshman probably thinks he's cooler than you
A hay ride, a fire, everybody's coming around
So go press your skirt, word is there's a new girl in town.” I Want You (Only By The Night)
(“Pyro” Video)

6. The Kooks “Indie Pop/Rock”
The Kooks are simply a lot of fun, and their lyrics are ubber catchy…when you understand them. Much of the time you’ll end up “mumble singing” where you sing the sounds you hear even if you aren’t sure what the lyrics are saying. Their songs are just so contagious you can’t help but “sing-a-long”. Other than their catchy rhythms, they really are very talented song writers and instrumentalists. But probably the best thing about The Kooks is that they appear to be having a good time, and they sound like they enjoy what they are doing and want to share it with everyone else.
Favorite Lyrics: “a-b-c-d-e-f and -g
Oh that reminds me of when we were free
Before life began to tear us apart
Remember those classes when we thought we were so smart” One Last Time (Konk)
(“Naïve” Video)

5. Coldplay “Alternative Rock”
Is it gay to like Coldplay? Maybe, but who could resist those lyrics and anthems, and let us not forget that beautifully charming voice of Chris Martin. So yeah maybe I am a little gay… gay for Coldplay. They produce hit song after hit song, and each album has its own unique feel. There is a reason why every new English, alternative rock band gets compared to Coldplay and it’s because they're simply the best in their genre. I would say “A Rush of Blood to the Head” is probably one of the best albums out there. Straight up!
Favorite Lyrics: “A warning sign
It came back to haunt me, and I realised
That you were an island and I passed you by
And you were an island to discover” Warning Sign (A Rush Of Blood To The Head)
(“The Scientist” Video)

4. Modest Mouse “Indie Rock”
Modest Mouse is crazy good, talented, and unique. Also, they may be just a little crazy (they get pretty intense live). Anywho, they know how to make good music. They are another band that’s been around forever and only became really popular with their last two albums: “Good News for People Who Love Bad News” and “We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank”. Every song on each of these albums is noteworthy. However, some of their best stuff came from their earlier work. “Gravity Rides Everything” is one of those songs that can never get old. It’s so easy to listen to and almost perfect in every situation.
Favorite Lyrics: “Tiny curtains open and we heard the tiny clap of little hands
A tiny man would tell a little joke and get a tiny laugh from all the folks
Sitting drifting around in bubbles and thinking it was us that carried them
When we finally got it figured out that we had truly missed the boat” Missed the Boat (We Were Dead Before The Ship Ever Sank)
(“Gravity Rides Everything” Video)

3. Frightened Rabbit “Indie Rock/Folk”
Frightened Rabbit is a Scottish indie rock band with a landslide of talent. They are very rhythmic and every song builds on itself getting more and more momentous. Moreover, the lyrics from songwriter and lead singer Scott Hutchinson are matched by none. Every song tells a great story or poem containing elaborate illustrations. The album “Midnight Organ Fight” is pretty much a perfect album through and through and their newest album “The Winter of Mixed Drinks” is close to as good. Rumor has it they will be touring with Death Cab for Cutie this summer, which includes Red Rocks.
Favorite Lyrics: “I’m Drunk, I’m Drunk
And you’re probably on pills
If we’ve both got the same diseases
It’s irrelevant girl.” Keep Yourself Warm (The Midnight Organ Fight)
(“Head Rolls Off” Video)

2. The Killers “Indie Rock/Heartland Rock”
The Killers debut album “Hot Fuss” remains their biggest success and it deserves all the praise. So many big hits come from that album and it came out at just the right time. “Hot Fuss” became 3x platinum in the United States, and it has lasted the test of time. The follow up album “Sam’s Town” is grossly underrated. It is an album that just fits so perfectly together, and similar to “Hot Fuss” produced some amazing hits, however, these hits never became quite as big. The Killers know how to make a hit song, and even more their B-sides and unreleased materials are just as good. “Sawdust” is their compilation album of B-sides and rarities, and it has been compared to classic albums like The Smith’s “Hatful of Hollow”. The Killers are killing it.
Favorite Lyrics: “Now Cinderella don't you go to sleep, it's such a bitter form of refuge.
Why don't you know the kingdoms under siege and everybody needs you.
Is there still magic in the midnight sun, or did you leave it back in '61?
In the cadence of a young man's eyes.
Out where the dreams all hide” A Dustland Fairytale (Day & Age)
(“Read My Mind” Video)

1. Arcade Fire “Indie Rock/Art Rock”
Everything about this band is terrific. They have a great name, great sound, great lyrics, and great presentation. All of their songs are so powerful and absorbing. Each song is passionate and intricate with complex analogies and meaningful lyrics. Each song grows and grows to a triumphant finish. Furthermore, their albums tell stories. Arcade Fire’s most recent album “The Suburbs” (Grammy winner for Album of the Year) tells the story of suburban living. Something that seems like it could be so mundane they make an epic story out of. Need more proof they are the best working band? The band plays guitar, drums, bass guitar, piano, violin, cello, double bass, xylophone, glockenspiel, keyboard, French horn, accordion, harp, mandolin, and hurdy-gurdy (whatever that is).
Favorite Lyrics: “My body is a cage
That keeps me from dancing with the one I love
But my mind holds the key” My Body is a Cage (Neon Bible)
(“The Suburbs” Video)

Top 11 Aliens Visiting Earth Movies

In eager anticipation of two upcoming "Aliens Visiting Earth" movies ("Paul", "Cowboys & Aliens"), I have compiled the top 11 best Aliens on Earth movies... according to an extended poll consisting of me and my friends.

In addition, if "Super 8" is an alien movie I am very excited about that as well... if it's not an alien movie I'm still excited.

11. Predator (1987) John McTiernan

Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. highly intelligent alien being with cool knifey-looking weapons and a nack for camouflage. A no-brainer who is going to win this fight. Arnie!! In the trailer the Predator is described as being able to "see our body heat AND our fear!" This extra-terrestrial warrior picks off a whole slew of steroid induced commandos, but one (Arnold aka Dutch) knows that the only way to survive is to become a predator himself. As cheesy as the lines in the movie are, the movie is actually supremely entertaining. Plus there's more carnage than you could ever hope for... unless you're familiar with any other Arnold Schwarzenegger movie, then it's exactly the amount of carnage you could hope for.

Best Quote: [after Dutch has nailed a guy to the wall with his knife]

Dutch: Stick around.

10. K-Pax (2001) Lain Softly

Is K-Pax an alien movie? This movie is either about an alien named Prot (Kevin Spacey) committed to a psychiatric institute or about a mental patient named Robert Porter (Kevin Spacey) with delusions of being an extraterrestrial from the planet K-Pax. The best evidence for alien is a scene in which the head psychiatrist, Dr. Powell (Jeff Bridges), introduces Prot to some astrophysicists where he provides accurate knowledge about the galaxy that baffles them. Robert Porter on the other hand, was a man presumably dead by suicide after he found his wife and daughter murdered. The idea of an alien walking among everyone else is hard to believe, but when the alien is also presumably a mental patient suffering delusions of grandeur things get "crazy"... good.

Best Quote: Prot: Why is a soap bubble round? Because it is the most energy efficient configuration. Similarly, on your planet I look like you; on K-Pax I look like a K-PAXian.

9. Men In Black (1997) Barry Sonnenfeld

Aliens don't only visit Earth in this Sci-Fi/Action/Comedy, they live there amongst everyone else. Aliens disguised as humans living peacefully (for the most part) among us is a good start, but add a top-secret organization that monitors alien activity and this movie easily makes it in the top 11. Agent Jay (Will Smith AKA The Fresh Prince) and Agent Kay (Tommy Lee Jones AKA the man who's been in his 50's for the last 3 decades) kick some alien ass, while maintaining great comedic banter. The special effects (giant cockroaches are pretty scary) and the whole "this kind of thing happens everyday" really make this movie great.
Best Quote: Beatrice: Edgar, what on earth was that?

Edgar: [Bug in disguise] Sugar...
Beatrice: I've never seen sugar do that.
Edgar: Give me... sugar... in water.

8. Starman (1984) John Carpenter

Starman tells the story of an alien (Jeff Bridges) who comes to Earth in response to the Voyager 2 space probe invitation. However, instead of being welcomed to Earth, the alien UFO is shot down by the US government. After crashing the alien (a blue ball of energy) stumbles into a Wisconsin home and finds a strand of hair to clone into a human body. Problem! The hair he finds belongs to the resident's dead husband. The woman Jenny Hayden, played by Karen Allen, witnesses this transformation and is obviously a little freaked. The Starman (Bridges) now needs Jenny to take him to Arizona's Barringer Crater where he has called his alien buddies to pick him up, and Starman must make it to the crater within three days or he will die. This movie at it's core is really a love story. As Jenny and Starman are fleeing from the pursuant army to the crater they fall in love. Whether the movie ends happily or not is debatable, but it's a great movie nonetheless.

Best Quote: Starman: Shit!

Jenny Hayden: Don't mind him. He's just learning English.
Roadhouse Waitress: Well, he's got a hell of a start on it!

7. Independence Day (1996) Roland Emmerich

The Aliens are disguised as even scarier looking aliens in Independence Day. This movie is just a good "hostile aliens are invading the Earth" movie. There isn't much of a message other than aliens are bad but Jeff Goldblum can figure out a way to kill them. Will Smith is the muscle (the only human in the early parts of the movie to take down an alien) Jeff Goldblum is the brains (he gives the Mother Ship a "cold" that brings down the force fields protecting the alien ships), and they work together to save Earth. It's just a good, high-octane thriller where Randy Quaid plays a crazy, paranoid alcoholic... a considerable stretch for him.

Best Quote: Captain Steven Hiller: [after crashing the alien spaceship by the Grand Canyon] *That's* what you get! Ha Ha! Look at you! Ya ship's all banged up!

Captain Steven Hiller: Who's the man? Huh? Who's the man? Wait till I get another plane! I'm a line ya friends up right beside you! Where ya at, huh? Where ya at?
[Hiller opens the spaceship, the alien screams, Hiller smacks him in the head]

Captain Steven Hiller: [beat] Welcome to earth.

6. The Abyss (1989) James Cameron

This movie is much more than just an alien movie. You have aliens, nukes, Navy SEALs, some deep-water ruff-necks, and the threat of Soviets and a hurricane. So yeah this movie is pretty awesome. The SEAL team and the ruff-necks are sent down to this sunken submarine to retrieve an active warhead. After the team gets stuck down in the sub they encounter some strange creatures (or the NTI" non-terrestrial intelligence") shit starts getting real. Lt. Coffey, SEAL team leader, becomes paranoid the NTI's are hostile and plans on sending the nuke down into the trench (or the abyss) to destroy them. Then a bunch of other stuff happens and the NTIs save the day. The special effects and photography in this movie are very Cameron-y... pretty much a decade ahead of it's time.

Best Quote: Lindsey Brigman We all see what we want to see. Coffey looks and he sees Russians. He sees hate and fear. You have to look with better eyes than that.

5. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956 & 1978) Don Siegel & Philip Kaufman

Alien plant "spore/pod/seed things" take over the bodies of humans... in order to replace the entire human race. The aliens take over your body or make a duplicate while the person is asleep, and the aliens look exactly like humans but completely void of emotion. Now the real problem is trying to convince everyone else that these "Pod People" aren't human, whilst trying to stay awake to avoid becoming a pod person as well. The 1956 version is arguably a metaphor of Soviet Spies in America looking like everyone else. It is most noticeable in the scene where the main character, Dr. Miles Bennell, looks into the camera and yells at the audience: "They're here already! You're Next! You're Next!" In the 1978 version, Bennell doesn't get the chance to warn humanity before he is turned into a Pod Person.

Best Quote: Jack Bellicec (Jeff Goldblum): Here I am, you pod bastards! Hey, pods! Come and get me you scum!

4. Mars Attacks! (1996) Tim BurtonThis movie probably has one of the best casts out of any movie ever! You have Jack Nicholson as The President, Glenn Close as the First Lady, Natalie Portman as their daughter, Martin Short as the Press Secretary, and Tom Jones as Tom Jones. Also in the movie: Jack Black, Danny DeVito, Sarah Jessica Parker, Pierce Brosnan, Michael J. Fox, Lukas Haas, and Jim Brown. That's all I really would have to say, but this movie is also quite delightful. It's cheesy and absolutely ridiculus, but also extremely smart. The Tim Burton-ness is a little more subtle in this movie (which is nice) and of course the acting is great... because there are a lot of good actors.
Best Quote: Billy Glenn Norris (Jack Black's Character): [about to get on the bus to leave for the Army, to his brother] So long, retard.

3. District 9 (2009) Neill BlomkampDistrict 9 is unique and revolutionary on many accounts. First, humans are the bad guys. For the most part Humans in this movie are the bad guys. They've set up a sort of ghetto for all the aliens (called prawns) to live in, they frequently do surgical experiments on the prawns (they cut them up and examin 'em), and humans only keep them around to figure out how to use their weaponry. Second, this movie takes place in South Africa and is a metaphorical reminder of Apartheid. Not many science fiction movies have such obvious political satire. Third, a human (our main character Wikus Van De Merwe) starts to turn into an alien after coming into contact with some of the prawn's biotechnology. It is during his transformation that he actually notices how badly the prawns are treated, and how much humans and prawns have in common. This alien movie is much more dramatic and thought provoking than most other alien movies.
Best Quote: Wikus Van De Merwe: [in Christopher's ship] This whole's thing's under your shack? For 20 years, you've had this fookin' thing hidden out here? This is, this is very illegal, I mean, this is... this is a fine.

2. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) Steven SpielbergYou have to wait the entire movie before you see the aliens, but it is certainly worth the wait. Considering that this movie came out in 1977 the aliens are very realistic and believable looking. They don't look like bad animatronic puppets or anything too jokesy. It is important for the aliens to be believable, but it is certainly far more important for the story to be interesting and compelling. In Close Encounters, the aliens have (in a way) chosen people to witness their arrival. The main characters all witnessed and had an experience with the aliens' UFOs , and by encountering these UFOs they received a message as to where to see the aliens again. And these people are obsessed with witnessing the aliens again. Any movie that involves Richard Dreyfus scalpting Wyoming's "Devil's Tower" in his mashed potatoes is worth looking in to.
Best Quote: David Laughlin: We didn't choose this place! We didn't choose these people! They were invited!

1. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982) Steven Spielberg

"I'll be right here" the words vibrate out of the adorable extra-terrestrial's mouth as his finger glows and he begins to leave our planet and Elliot behind. One can't help to think about our favorite pets and believing they'll always being with us. The connection between Elliot and ET is stronger than any connection between someone and their pet, but in a way we all understand the bond. Spielberg accomplished a movie that basically hits every genre (except maybe horror although when we first meet ET it's a little scary). However, it is a love, action , comedy, sci-fy, thriller, and feel-good movie. Every scene in this movie is classic: ET being lured by Reese's Pieces, ET getting drunk and therefore resulting in Elliot's drunken state at school because of their connection, and of course ET's great escape via flying bicycle. The only problem with this movie is that it is a fictional movie and ET may not be actually real.
Best Quote: Elliot He's a man from outer space and we're taking him to his spaceship.
Greg: Well, can't he just beam up?
Elliot: This is *reality*, Greg. :

Honorable Mention:

Muppets From Space- It has everything: Muppets; references to movies like: Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Independence Day, the Shawshank Redemption; and it has a great cast not including the Muppets. However, it's tough to put it on this list because Gonzo is first and foremost a Muppet... and therefore not an alien. So, Gonzo's brethren who come down at the end of the movie are in extension Muppets as well.

Transformers- Shia's great, Tuturro's great, and that girl is good looking, but those fuckin alien robots.

Flight of the Navigator- Great Great movie but the only alien you really see is that weird little cute thing. It doesn't quite make the list, but it's a great movie none-the-less.

Cone Heads- Great SNL skit but not quite a great alien movie.

My Favorite Martian- The 1999 movie is pretty solid with a great cast, but just outside the bubble.

Miracle on Ice- Inspirational, and one of the only true stories on this list.

Quick Notes:

Three actors star in two different movies on this list:

Will Smith- Independents Day & Men in Black

Jeff Goldblum- Independents Day & Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

Jeff Bridges (only one to play an alien)- Starman (Oscar Nomination) & K-Pax

Steven Spielberg has directed two of these movies: E.T. & Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Movies Nominated for Best Picture:

E.T. The Extraterrestrial

District 9

In most of these movies, the aliens come in peace.