10 Best Movies Of The 50s And 60s That You Should Watching Update 04/2024

Best Movies Of The 50s And 60s

Those who profess to be cinephiles should familiarize themselves with some of the best films from the 1950s.

Every movie aficionado has a list of films that they believe should be seen by everyone, and throughout Hollywood’s long history, there are classics that any critic would agree should be seen by everyone who calls themselves a movie fan..

When it came to cutting-edge cinematic methods, fresh stars and classic works of art, the 1950s had it all. Those who want to see the greatest of this decade’s cinematic offerings and devour the most critically acclaimed flicks should check out this list.

 1. Sunset Boulevard (1950)

Sunset Boulevard (1950)

Sunset Boulevard was a trailblazer in the field of movies about movies, delving deep into the heart of Hollywood to reveal the truth about the business. As the story unfolds, we learn about the struggles of a scriptwriter trying to find a role for a long-forgotten silent cinema actor.

It bridges cinematic periods while probing the very heart of Hollywood, making it a must-see for every film buff interested in the medium’s history and future.

2. All About Eve (1950)

This film was a turning point for women in cinema.

Actresses’ society and social circle are depicted in All About Eve, a film about a young woman’s struggle to fit in. It’s a new perspective on women’s issues and the fashion business that’s unadulterated and unfiltered.

Anne Baxter and Bette Davis surely earned their renown with this film, which had never been seen before in 1950. In addition, it was nominated for six Academy Awards, so you know it’s good.

3. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)

A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)

In order to appreciate modern cinema, you need to know Marlon Brando.

With the success of A Streetcar Named Desire, he established a new style of acting that would lead to the likes of Al Pacino and others.

The story revolves around a troubled woman who moves in with her sister, only to discover that her sister’s husband is even more of a problem. This film is completely timeless because it pierces the heart and shatters the ego.

4. Singin’ In The Rain (1952)

All of the defining elements of this classic picture – Gene Kelly, a musical, and a cultural shift from silent to sound – are present. It’s difficult not to have seenSingin’ In The Rainas a movie fan, even if this musical isn’t to everyone’s taste.

It’s a mixture of comedy and magic, but it also provides a glimpse into a pivotal moment in cinematic history. That decade was a time of tremendous change, and this film brilliantly illustrates it.

5. Godzilla (1954)

Godzilla (1954)

A few years later, when this sci-fi character made its debut, everything else followed suit. Despite the fact that this Japanese film was a massive success in Japan, it also produced a new division in the genre and a timeless character around the globe.

Since its 1954 premiere, Godzilla has become one of the most recognizable monsters in cinematic history. If you want to get a sense of life in the 1950s, you must view this film.

6. Seven Samurai (1954)

They were inspired by the culture of Japan and depicted a group of seven samurai who were trying to safeguard their community from bandits. This time around, Japan was nominated for two Oscars, making it the first Asian country to do so.

Those interested in Japanese cinema will find this picture and Godzilla a great introduction, but they also had a profound impact on Hollywood and North American filmmaking. It’s a fun and genuine movie that everyone can appreciate.

7.  Rebel Without A Cause (1955)

Rebel Without A Cause (1955)

James Dean became a household name after starring in Rebel Without a Cause, a culturally significant picture that dealt with adolescent sexism, drug use, and rebellion. It was vibrant, thought-provoking, and amusing, and it cleared the way for a more honest exchange of ideas about controversial subjects in the entertainment industry.

This film follows a young man as he navigates the perils of adolescence and all the friends and foes he encounters along the way. From this decade, it’s one of the best.

8.The Searchers (1956)

It’s impossible not to include this John Ford-directed Western in this list of Hollywood classics.

Not many films before it dealt with sexism and racism in such a direct manner as The Searchers did. Ford’s influence may be seen in every Western today.

To find his niece, a Civil War veteran must track down a Native American tribe that has adopted her as a member. Since its release in 1956, it has remained relevant and morally significant.

9. 12 Angry Men (1957)

12 Angry Men (1957)

Sidney Lumet’s dialogue in 12 Angry Men ranks as one of the best in cinematic history.

Race, gender, life and death, and morality are also addressed in this film. This film has Henry Fonda and Lee J. Cobb in one scene, and it’s a standout.

There must be a decision made by the jury as to whether a young man killed his father or not. It’s a powerful story, but it has a lasting impact on the industry.

10.  Vertigo (1958)

Vertigo, Alfred Hitchcock’s most popular film from the 1950s, was released in the 1960s, yet it remains one of his greatest triumphs and a fixture of the era. There are many directors nowadays who are inspired by the exciting filmmaking techniques used in this picture.

Crime thriller starring James Stewart and Kim Novak has everything a movie fan could ask for. Vertigo is a novel that never gets old because of its mix of romance, crime, and mystery.