At the time of its release, Spielberg's adaptation of Alice Walker's classic novel was the filmmaker's most daring and controversial film of his career.  It also featured some of the most realistic and uncomfortable scenes Spielberg had ever attempted. He was aided by standout performances from Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, Margaret Avery and Oprah Winfrey.  The film received 11 Academy Awards nominations, but shockingly - not director. More painful for Spielberg, who had been nominated four times previously without winning, "The Color Purple" ended up tying "The Turning Point" for the most Oscar nominations (11) without a win. Still, time has been kind to the performances and the "God is Trying to Tell You Something" sequence is still hands down one of Spielberg's finest moments.

- Gregory Ellwood