The Ultimate List of Must-Watch Classic Movies is the perfect place to start for those looking to explore the timeless classics of the silver screen. From dramatic epics like ‘Citizen Kane’ and ‘Casablanca’, to beloved comedies like ‘It Happened One Night’ and ‘A Raisin in the Sun’, these classic films are guaranteed to entertain, delight, and leave you in awe. Plus, who can forget the iconic costumes from ‘The Wizard of Oz’, which were recently discovered in a shoebox? Whether you’re a fan of drama, romance, war or science fiction, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your popcorn and get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience!
Singin’ In The Rain
Singin’ in the Rain is a classic 1952 American musical romantic comedy film directed and choreographed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen. Starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor, this delightful movie follows the story of silent film stars Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont as they try to make the difficult transition from silent to sound films. Singin’ in the Rain features iconic songs like “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Make ‘Em Laugh” that are sure to have you singing along. Enjoy this heartwarming tale of love, laughter, and music as you watch two budding lovers try to make it in a world of technological change. Now streaming on many platforms, Singin’ in the Rain is a must-see for any fan of classic film!
Citizen Kane
Citizen Kane is a timeless masterpiece from the renowned filmmaker Orson Welles. It tells the epic story of Charles Foster Kane, a boy who was taken away from his humble beginnings and inherited a fortune. Through the investigation of his dying words, we uncover his scandalous life and conflicting stories. The film features dazzling debut performances and showcases the creative possibilities of cinema. It is now streaming, so don’t miss out on this captivating movie experience!
Casablanca
Casablanca is an iconic and timeless romantic drama that will live on for generations. This 1942 American classic, directed by Michael Curtiz, stars the incomparable Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in a story of love, courage, and sacrifice.
The film follows Rick Blaine (Bogart), an American expatriate who runs a nightclub in Casablanca. When his old flame Ilsa (Bergman) arrives in town with her husband, Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid), they become entangled in a difficult struggle against the Nazis. Rick must decide whether to help them escape or turn his back on them.
This uplifting film showcases the power of love to overcome even the darkest of times and features some of the most memorable lines of dialogue ever written for cinema. It earned multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, for its stirring portrayal of a romance that transcends all boundaries. Casablanca remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved films, with its powerful message still resonating today.
Double Indemnity
Double Indemnity is an iconic American film noir that captures the complexities of human emotion and morality. It follows the story of an insurance representative, Fred MacMurray, and a housewife, Barbara Stanwyck, who become seduced by a scheme of insurance fraud and murder. This classic film noir delves into themes of masculinity, desire and white America’s fantasies. Despite the intense subject matter, Double Indemnity is ultimately a story about redemption and the power to choose between good and evil. It will leave viewers with a sense of hope for humanity as it explores what measures people are willing to take in pursuit of their dreams.
La Dolce Vita
Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita is a cinematic masterpiece that has been celebrated by audiences around the world since its initial release in 1960. This iconic film follows Marcello Mastroianni as he navigates the glittering nightlife of Rome, and all the temptations and pleasures it brings. From the hilarious escapades of Marcello’s tabloid journalist career to his passionate affairs with Maddalena (Anouk Aimée) and Emma (Yvonne Furneaux), La Dolce Vita is an epic experience that captures the essence of “the sweet life”. It rocketed Federico Fellini to international fame and put Rome at the center of the world. From its breathtakingly stylish visuals to its captivating storytelling, La Dolce Vita is a classic work of art that will never be forgotten.
Man With A Movie Camera
Man With A Movie Camera is an iconic and groundbreaking 1929 Soviet silent documentary film directed by Dziga Vertov and filmed by his brother Mikhail. This experimental film follows a man as he travels around a city with a camera slung over his shoulder, capturing glimpses of the lives of the people inhabiting it. It is intended to show how film can exist outside of narrative and yet still connect with viewers on an emotional level. Throughout the day, from morning to dusk, the man’s camera captures twenty-four hours in the life of those living in this large city. As the film progresses, we see how the cinematic art form can be used as a powerful tool for education and worker representation. The Man with the Movie Camera is a beautiful celebration of life and filmmaking that will stay with viewers long after viewing.
8½
Federico Fellini’s iconic 8½ is a surrealist masterpiece that captures the creative stasis of its hero, filmmaker Guido Anselmi (Marcello Mastroianni). The metafictional narrative follows Anselmi as he retreats into his own mind to search for inspiration and creativity. This exploration allows viewers to intimately experience the filmmaker’s inner turmoil and confusion. 8½ is an invigorating journey of self-discovery, as well as a vibrant celebration of the creative process. Its themes of identity and creativity are timeless, making this classic film a must-watch for any cinephile. With its beautiful visuals and dreamlike sequences, 8½ is a visually stunning exploration of artistry and imagination.
Breathless is an iconic film of the French New Wave that revolutionized film-making. Directed by Jean-Luc Godard, starring Jean-Paul Belmondo and Richard Gere, this neo-noir romantic thriller follows Jesse Lujack, a small-time thief who steals a car and impulsively murders a motorcycle policeman. Wanted by the authorities, he reunites with his lover and attempts to flee the country.
This game-changing movie continues to inspire filmmakers around the world with its revolutionary technique and style. It is now available on 4K UHD Collector’s edition with 12” vinyl for fans to enjoy. Breathless is an unconventional yet undeniably impressive and unique film that will remain timeless for years to come.
Ordet
The film Ordet was released in English under the name The Word, and a Danish movie by Carl Theodor Dreyer was based upon this play. The entire movie is based on a short film written by a Danish Christian priest named Kaj Munk, and it was first performed in 1932. The movie won the Golden Lion at the Venice International Film Festival and it was the only award won by the Dreyer film.
Rashomon
Rashomon is a 1950 masterpiece by the legendary director Akira Kurosawa, starring the incomparable Toshiro Mifune. Set in 11th-century Japan, this psychological thriller examines the nature of truth and justice as it follows a horrific series of events – an ambush, rape and murder – as seen through the perspectives of four different characters. This gripping film has been widely considered one of the greatest films ever made, with its action-packed scenes and thought-provoking themes. Brimming with suspense and captivating performances, Rashomon is a timeless classic that continues to fascinate audiences worldwide.
Taxi Driver
Taxi Driver is a classic 1976 Martin Scorsese film about a war veteran, Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro), who takes a job as a New York City cab driver. His experiences on the streets of the city fuel his mental breakdown and lead him to take extreme measures to protect a young prostitute he meets. Despite its dark themes, Taxi Driver is ultimately an uplifting story of self-discovery and redemption. The iconic performances from De Niro, Jodie Foster, and Cybill Shepherd make it one of the greatest films ever made and a must-see for any movie fan.
The 400 Blows
The 400 Blows is a 1959 French coming-of-age drama film, and the directorial debut of François Truffaut. This timeless movie captures the ups and downs of adolescence with an honest voice, humor, and a great performance by Jean-Pierre Léaud as Antoine Doinel. Through his eyes, the audience witnesses an odyssey of aloof parents, oppressive teachers and petty crime. The 400 Blows is dedicated to the critic André Bazin, Truffaut’s mentor, who died just as the movie began shooting. It is also Truffaut’s most personal work as it reflects his own upbringing. With its masterful tale of a boy confused, troubled, and unloved, The 400 Blows has won multiple awards for its heartfelt story and remains one of the best coming-of-age stories ever made!