Reds

You gotta give Warren Beatty credit.  When he finds a real-life story he connects with, he goes all out - directing, writing, producing and starring in a film about it!  He took on this monumental task in 1981 with Reds, a drama about American communist John Reed and his role in the Russian Revolution.  Now relax, you don't have to love politics or be a diehard history buff to appreciate this film.  The story is universal, depicting Reed's passion, struggle and sacrifice, not to mention the tumultuous love affair between him and writer Louise Bryant (played by Beatty's off-screen lover at the time, actress Diane Keaton).   Earning 12 Oscar nominations (including Beatty's win for Best Director), the film is as thought provoking as it is entertaining.  And at a time when American optimism and anti-war sentiments are hot topics, the story seems more relevant than ever.