For the 2021 JFH25 list, I actually chose Ocean's Eleven, since it's a favorite. But after rewatching the Lord of the Rings trilogy through the years, I have found The Fellowship of the Ring to not only be my favorite of the three, but definitely worth kinging the film as 2001's pick. I don't think the first in the trilogy is usually people's favorite, but I love seeing the fellowship together and seeing their journey in this one. It's a little more hopeful than its successors, too.

"It was pity that stayed Bilbo's hand. Many that live deserve death. Some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them, Frodo? Do not be too eager to deal out death in judgment."

Honorable Mentions: Ocean's Eleven is one of the few remakes that is not only better than the original, but it spawned some pretty good sequels, too. And, although the movie basically glorifies theft, it's possible to view it as just fun and amusing escapism that has a few crooks robbing from a bigger crook, all set against the slick and stylish background of Las Vegas with a truly memorable score from David Holmes. (And it's also about a guy trying to win his girl back from someone a bit more devious than himself.) It's not perfect by any means, but I do enjoy Soderbergh's Ocean's trilogy. I have to also say that Serendipity was one of my first favorite romantic comedies, too. Amy and I both loved it and have even made it a point to visit the famous restaurant, Serendipity III, in New York City that was featured prominently in the movie.
        - John DiBiase