“The Great Movies II” by Roger Ebert: This is an essential reference for movie lovers. It’s not a list of the best leftovers from 2002’s “The Great Movies,” but a selection of works worthy of admiration and, except for “The Birth of a Nation,” repeated viewing.
Ebert’s infectious passion fills the 100 essays, ranging from the silent classic “The Last Laugh” to the musical mockumentary “This Is Spinal Tap.” It’s a joy to relive “A Christmas Story” and an education to explore the French New Wave.
Ebert occasionally repeats himself and is inconsistent in the way he reports release years, but those are quibbles amid countless delights.
Rating: Buy it. Reviewed by Michael Jacobs (originally appeared in USA TODAY)