subject: Jeff Bridges' Best Films on Illinois and Indiana Satellite TV [print this page] Before he had a crazy heart, he was the Dude, and long before that he was Lightfoot. It seems like whatever decade you see him in a film, Jeff Bridges has a likability and a sincerity that never disappoints. In fact, you really have to look at his entire film career to get the best of Jeff Bridges. These five HD films playing on satellite TV in Indiana and Illinois tell the complete story of a great career which finally has a Best Actor Oscar.
1. Men Who Stare at Goats. Fans had gotten used to the hippy version of Bridges as the Dude, so his Goats role was not a surprise but rather a welcome addition. Bridges gets to flex his comic muscles alongside George Clooney, while Kevin Spacey continues his run of bad guy characters. There is something hilarious about Bridges' attempt to create the so-called New Age Army, so it's best not to ask too many questions and instead have fun, as it appears the cast and crew are doing.
2. Thunderbolt and Lightfoot. Like most of Clint Eastwood films in the 1970's, this one is a lot of fun, with a young Bridges playing the foil to a typically sneering Clint. He got a dose' of what (!) you ask in one of the funniest scenes? There's nothing to take all that seriously, but the style of the movie and the loose feel of the production will score a lot of points with modern audiences. This was director Michael Cimino's decade in a lot of ways. Check out this picture in HD on the Independent Film Channel.
3. The Big Lebowski. In many ways the signature Jeff Bridges film, The Big Lebowski is one to keep on tap in your apartment whenever you are having a bad day, or better yet, keep your satellite TV On Demand library on your favorites in Indiana or Illinois. If you want to get a second look at it, study all of the great supporting roles. Julianne Moore, David Thewlis, John Goodman and Steve Buscemi all throw their weight around in support of the Coen Brothers' highly successful comedy.
4. The Fisher King. Truly an inspirational performance, this film might feature Jeff Bridges at his best, Oscar winning role in Crazy Heart notwithstanding. Robin Williams is the homeless man who likes to lead a few choruses of classic show tunes and Bridges is the recipient of his mercy one fateful night. The two end up creating a strange bond which is more touching than confusing. The underlying pain of both characters provides an excellent backdrop to a stirring film, now playing on IFC in high definition.
5. Tucker: A Man and His Dream. Excuse the corny title, because the performance Bridges gives as Preston Tucker is as good as it gets. You might expect the righteousness to get too thick in Coppola's attack on corporate structures in the United States, but Bridges is the balancing force above it all. This film deserves a second look.
Jeff Bridges' Best Films on Illinois and Indiana Satellite TV
