Carla

I too enjoy movies for the entertainment value. However, when it comes to listing my favorites, or even those that are "enjoyable," I would not include those that have disgusted me with their poor sense of life--unless there is some other truly redeeming aspect of the movie, like a superb performance by a particular actor. The reason for this is that I view art or entertainment as primarily a source of "fuel" for my own outlook on life (similar to what Rand suggested in The Romantic Manifesto). That is, if I'm going to spend my time on it, it had better give me something that I want or crave: some belly laughs, inspiration, or just a benevolent outlook on life. My tastes tend toward the "lighter" side when it comes to movies, but the more dramatic movies I enjoy usually have a particularly inspiring character or two.

That being said, AutoJC, why did you like Mystic River? I haven't seen it, but the previews I saw made it seem like an excruciating movie to watch. But I would like to hear what about it appealed to you.

On to some of my favorites:
Amelie (full French title: Le Fabul Destin d'Amelie Poulain)--some of it's a little silly or mystical, but the important aspects are: despite her parents' fearful outlooks, a young woman takes a few chances, acts benevolently towards others, and finds love. It just leaves me feeling happy.
Elizabeth--Cate Blanchett's performance is wonderful.
Seabiscuit
Chocolat
High Fidelity--clever and some great music.
Shakespeare in Love
Some Like it Hot--for the laughs and Marilyn Monroe.
Charlotte Gray--another Cate Blanchett film, I don't believe this one was in wide release, but it was very, very good--about a Scottish woman who joins the French resistance during WWII.
Cold Mountain--although the very end soured it for me.
Big Fish