The Maltese Falcon (1941) - ★★★★★

Director: John Huston
Writers: John Huston (Screenplay), Dashiell Hammett (Novels)
Stars: Humphrey Bogart, Mary Astor, Peter Lorre, Sydney Greenstreet, Gladys George, Barton MacLane, Ward Bond, Elisha Cook Jr.

Believe it or not, this is the first time I've ever seen the masterpiece that is The Maltese Falcon. I've seen a lot of classic films that are hyped up to be something better than they really are. This happens to be a film with a high reputation that is fully justified, and if anything, underrated. I'd give it a perfect 10/10. It has complex characters and simple characters, moments of sharp wit and dry humour, truly incredible cinematography, and a story that keeps you guessing and begging for more. I found myself utterly wrapped in the mystery of the missing maltese falcon statue. Truly, it was the whirlwind performances by Bogart, Astor, Lorre, and Greenstreet which made the movie as legendary as it is.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) - ★½

Director: Vincente Minelli
Writers: Sally Benson (Novel), Irving Brecher, Fred F. Finlehoffe (Screenplay)
Stars: Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, Mary Astor, Harry Davenport, Lucille Bremer, Leon Ames

Now this was a tough movie to sit through. There's nothing particularly interesting about this movie, save for the song it's famous for "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." The acting's OK, but nothing special. As for the story, there's not much substance there. There's bucket loads of cheese throughout  this movie, which for some made it entertaining, but for me it was almost unwatchable. (This is coming from a person who loves cheesy movies).