by Nikk Nelson, Staff Writer

A friend once told me I have some serious movie-watching stamina. Nothing makes me happier than sitting down and watching two, three, or even more movies in a row—following a throughline of theme, actor, director, or whatever strikes my fancy. This series is where I share some of my favorite cinematic mixtapes, for lack of a better term. I hope you enjoy!

John Cusack is one of my favorite actors of all time. Off-hand, I can’t think of another actor that I’ve consistently loved throughout their entire career. For most, I like their early work or later work. Or, a lot of times, just one movie in particular and I can do without the rest. Not John Cusack. So, for anyone unacquainted, or anyone looking to rediscover their appreciation, here’s my go-to Cusack mix.

Better Off Dead (dir. Savage Steve Holland, 1985)

So many teen movies of the 80’s and 90’s have not stood the test of time. This one isn’t unscathed, but it’s still a lot of fun and infinitely quotable. There’s a unique satire to it about growing up and getting your heart broken that’s just as sincere as other dramas but mixed with moments that are very dark and surreal—not to mention hilarious. This is my second favorite performance from Curtis Armstrong, and I love the musical number from E.G. Daily—I wake up with it in my head on a regular basis.

Not currently streaming but definitely worth a purchase, digital and/or physical. I’d recommend pairing this one with The Graduate (1967) for a great double feature.

Say Anything (dir. Cameron Crowe, 1989)

Perhaps the most iconic John Cusack image is as Lloyd Dobler holding a boombox over his head blaring Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes”. Cameron Crowe would go on to prove himself an auteur of films about life just not working out the way you want. This is another teen movie that sets itself apart with a lot of honesty in its characters. I remember it being one of the first movies I watched in the 80’s where everything didn’t work out peachy-keen for everyone all the time and that got my attention and stuck with me.

Also not currently streaming but again worth a purchase, digital and/or physical. And I would also recommend pairing this one with The Graduate (1967) for a great double feature. The endings of both films are very similar but I find this one to be a lot more hopeful and optimistic.

Grosse Pointe Blank (dir. George Armitage, 1997)

Hands down, this is one of my top-ten favorite movies of all time. My older brother and I quote it at each other constantly. I remember a few years back the internet was bothering Cameron Crowe to do a sequel to Say Anything and I yelled into the void that it already exists: Martin Blank is Lloyd Dobler ten years later. Watch these films back-to-back and tell me I’m wrong. Alan Arkin as Dr. Oatman is one of my favorite performances, period, and Dan Aykroyd as the villain is so perfect. Last but not least, the soundtrack kicks as much ass as Benny Urquidez who turns in an unforgettable performance—the height of which for me is one of my favorite fight scenes of all time set to the tune of The English Beat’s “Mirror in the Bathroom.”

Currently streaming on Hulu.

High Fidelity (dir. Stephen Frears, 2000)

Cusack reunites with producer Steve Pink for another glorious, laden with great music, coming of mid-age dramedy. Jack Black’s breakout role is something to behold. Again, infinitely quotable and just an all-around great movie. Do me a favor and go watch the Hulu series revamp that came out in 2020 starring Zoe Kravitz. It’s just as good, if not better, than the movie. It’s only one season with a solid beginning, middle, and end.

Currently streaming on Hulu.

From here, there’s any number of Cusack-directions to go. Here’s a few I would absolutely recommend: The Raven (2012)—I know, I’m just as surprised as you are; 1408 (2007)—one of my favorite Stephen King adaptations—it has a few alternate endings so be careful which one you rent/buy—I prefer the happy ending; Love & Mercy (2014); Identity (2003); The Ice Harvest (2005); Runaway Jury (2003); The Grifters (1990).