If there is one movie a year I really like, that's great. This year there were four.

How do I know I like a movie?

Not by the reviews, not by what others say, not by the actors.

Besides knowing that I'm enjoying a movie while I'm watching it, I know I really liked a movie if, at the end, I catch myself applauding, and often cheering loudly. Here are the films that made me applaud this year –- just in time for the Oscar nominations.

1. The Theory of Everything
       The triumph of the mind over the body — even though I knew he would make it because I saw him on television.

2. The Unbroken
       The triumph of the body and the mind — even though I knew he would make it because I saw him on the news.

3. The Imitation Game
       The triumph of the mind and the machine — just as his countrymen were ready to give up on him. 

4. Big Eyes
       The triumph of the mind at the last minute — just as I contemplated giving up on her.

If you do see these movies, and if you don't find yourself clapping, at least see if you're smiling broadly.

Oh yes, there's one more movie that I must see, just to poke my finger in the nose of North Korea for trying to change our movie viewing habits.  I don't expect the movie to be great, but I know I will feel great seeing “The Interview.”

What is my favorite movie of all time?  A big round of applause for “Ghost.”  I wish they would make more movies like that.

Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen@hotmail.com