1. The Big Lebowski
Leave it to the Brothers Coen to deliver the best movie of 1998 (so far). The duo behind Raising Arizona, Fargo and Blood Simple returns with a movie that is at once dark, quirky, funny and inspired. The Big Lebowski has hit and cult classic written all over it. In a nutshell: some bad guys have a grudge against Lebowski, and they come after him. It turns out that Lebowski, played by Jeff Bridges, is the wrong Lebowski. How many can there be? Bridges really flexes his chops as an actor in this film. Its a role so fine-tuned to Bridges sensibilities as a performer that I wouldnt be surprised if the role were written with him in mind. Though his character is named Lebowski, he prefers to be called The Dude. Hes in a bathrobe most of the time. He bowls. Hes The Dude. John Tuturro and John Goodman deliver stellar supporting performances as The Dudes bowling buddies. The repartee and interaction among the cast is so relaxed and natural one might believe many of the scenes were merely improvised on set. Joel and Ethan Coen serve up a buffet of inspired lunacy and brilliant filmmaking, making The Big Lebowski the best movie of 1998. So far.