Best Movie from each year since the start of film. (1874-2020)
My choice for the best motion picture of the year, dating back to the earliest found footage. (Many of the first films listed are debatable)
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- DirectorP.J.C. JanssenSeries of photographs of the transit of the planet Venus across the Sun in 1874.This is the earliest footage that can be classed as a film. It's no more then a few seconds long and the picture is terrible and almost impossible to make out, but hey gotta start somewhere right?
- DirectorEadweard MuybridgeStarsGilbert DommSallie GardnerThe clip shows a jockey, Gilbert Domm, riding a horse, Sallie Gardner. The clip is not filmed; instead, it consists of 24 individual photographs shot in rapid succession, making a moving picture when using a zoopraxiscope.It was filmed using 24 continuous photos put in order. The result a rough image of a horse crossing the screen for under a minute. But hey progress!
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceA frame sequence featuring a man walking around a corner.As the title suggests the film is about a 'Man Walking Around the Corner' or at least I think that's what I just watched the quality was terrible.
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceA shot of people walking on The Leeds Bridge.By now folks were starting to take notice of what could be achieved through film. Thomas Edison was a notable contributor. Again calling any of these handful of second long pieces films is a big stretch.
- DirectorWilliam Friese-GreeneA lost film not seen since it was made.A shot of... Well again the title is pretty self explanatory.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsGiuseppe Sacco AlbaneseOne of W.K.L. Dickson's laboratory workers horses around for the camera.An image of Thomas Edison's workers horsing around. Believed to be the very first film to be shot in the United States.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseTwo men wearing boxing gloves prepare to spar in the Edison Company studio.Wait for it......
Yep you guessed it a shot of Men Boxing. - DirectorÉmile ReynaudOne night, Arlequin come to see his lover Colombine. But then Pierrot knocks at the door and Colombine and Arlequin hide. Pierrot starts singing but Arlequin scares him and the poor man goes away.The first ever animated film. Really a wonder considering the earlier entries in the list.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsCharles KayserJohn OttThree men hammer on an anvil and pass a bottle of beer around.This was a huge leap in the history of film. A first for many reasons. The first film with actual actors playing a role, and the first film to be available to the public. But still no longer then a minute.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsFred OttA man (Thomas Edison's assistant) takes a pinch of snuff and sneezes. This is one of the earliest Thomas Edison films and was the first motion picture to be copyrighted in the United States.For me this was the year of the creation of advertisements. The film in question wins this years prize for me, well because it's a clip of a man sneezing!!
- DirectorLouis LumièreWorkers leaving the Lumière factory for lunch in Lyon, France in 1895; a place of great photographic innovation and one of the birth places of cinema.And here we go, the arrival of the french Lumiere brothers. The 'creators of film'. Now I've never studied film to any great extent, but I think this list would prove otherwise. Nevertheless the brothers played a massive role in the shaping of the film industry today.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyJules-Eugène LegrisGeorges MélièsWith the help of a magic cauldron, Mephistopheles conjures up a variety of supernatural characters.Directed by Georges Melies, another french revolutionary of film. It can be classed as the first horror film of all time, and has many cool edits, such as characters appearing out of thin air that we come to expect from horror/sc-fi films today. The former magician really was the father of the science fiction genre. On a side note the first film of a decent length i.e longer then a minute!!
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJeanne BradyJehanne d'AlcyThe first film to ever show a nudity scene on screen is a simple presentation of a servant preparing a bath for another woman.Another first for the list. The first film to ever show nudity in it. Yes ladies and gentlemen 20 seconds of a servant girls exposed bum right in front of the viewer. Blasphemy!!!
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyGeorges MélièsAn astronomer falls asleep and has a strange dream involving a fairy queen and the Moon.Given an actual budget to work with Georges Melies uses all of his visionary tricks and throws everything at the viewer for 3 minutes of madness. This film is all over the place and it's nearly impossible to comprehend whats going on in front of you. But by god for it's time it deserves this years award.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsMlle BarralBleuette BernonCarmelliA fairy godmother magically turns Cinderella's rags to a beautiful dress, and a pumpkin into a coach. Cinderella goes to the ball, where she meets the Prince - but will she remember to leave before the magic runs out?Cinderella!!!
Yes kids 50 years before Disneys take on the timeless fairy tale, Georges Melies released his take on the classic tale. By the way that's 4 years in a row this guy has won best picture, guys got some serious skills. - DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsBleuette BernonJeanne CalvièreJehanne d'AlcyA divinely inspired peasant woman becomes an army captain for France and then is martyred after she is captured.Ok so it's comically bad at times, and the story is impossible to follow in most parts. But this Georges Melies adaption is still miles better then the other works of the year, given that it's of acceptable length and actually has a narrative to try and follow.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsA chemist carries out a bizarre experiment with his own head.The French man appears for the 6th year in a row (don't worry Spielberg and co will eventually make an appearance) and it's no great surprise as he was leaps and bounds ahead of his time. Could have gone with 'Bluebeard' by the same director, but this film had great effects, comedy and was actually slightly bearable to watch.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsVictor AndréBleuette BernonA group of astronomers go on an expedition to the Moon.Only one real winner here. 'A Trip to the Moon' for me is the first 'well known' film (Lumiere brothers aside), and is an accumulation of all of Melies previous attempts to create his own perfect film for it's time. So many film making techniques were used here that we still see today. And the image of the spaceship crashing into the man on the moon is an iconic one.
- DirectorEdwin S. PorterStarsGilbert M. 'Broncho Billy' AndersonA.C. AbadieGeorge BarnesA group of bandits stage a brazen train hold-up, only to find a determined posse hot on their heels.On this list for many reasons. Regarded as a must watch for any film buff and appearing on countless classic must see lists. This film is the first 'AMERICAN' film to have a narrative story to follow. It's also the first on this list that I actually enjoyed throughout. Easily the best movie of 1903.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsFernande AlbanyJehanne d'AlcyUsing every known means of transportation, several savants from the Geographic Society undertake a journey through the Alps to the Sun which finishes under the sea.After two milestone years for film 1904 was a bit of a let down, in fact the next few years were a bit of a backward step. So up pops Georges Melies with the best film of the year (amazingly the 8th time he has appeared on this list). The story for this one is crazy, a group of Geologists take a trip to the sun via the Alps.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsA traveler at an inn is harassed by a mischievous devil in his room.Melies wins again this year simply because there was no other film worth mentioning in 1905 other then this short film. 1905 was probably the worst year for film since the 1800's.
- DirectorWallace McCutcheonEdwin S. PorterStarsJack BrawnThe fiend faces the spectacular mind-bending consequences of his free-wheeling rarebit binge.Nothing special here, had a few comedic moments which gave it the edge. But again was a poor poor year in the industry.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsMlle. BodsonManuelGeorges MélièsAs the clock strikes twelve, a weary astronomer attempts to answer the impertinent enquiries of his young students by scrutinising an impending lunar eclipse, as an effeminate and delicate moon caresses the mighty sun's hungry cosmic rays.Another very poor year for film. George Melies makes his 10th appearance on the list, all be it he had little to no competition for most of these years, which just goes to show you what a huge part he played in the early days of film. This film really has to be seen to be believed, it involves the sun in what I can only describe as making love to the moon, while the moon makes very disturbing facial expressions by the way. This premise for a movie was crazy even for Melies.
- DirectorÉmile CohlThe first all-animated film in history, a series of scenes without much narrative structure, but morphing into each other.An all animated film, which is pretty cool and easy to watch, being a minute long or so. On a side note I am going through each year as the list is and the films have been dreadful since 1903's "The Great Train Robbery". The arrival of Chaplin and Keaton can't come quick enough, as they really did breath new life to the industry when it was in a rut.
- DirectorD.W. GriffithStarsFrank PowellGrace HendersonJames KirkwoodAn unscrupulous and greedy capitalist speculator decides to corner the wheat market for his own profit, establishing complete control over the markets.A very solid film for it's time. Huge improvement on the pacing of a simple story then previous entries on the list, due mainly to the use of written dialog, which became a mainstay in the silent movie era. Also a much larger cast then what the viewer was usually accustom to.
- DirectorJ. Searle DawleyStarsMary FullerCharles OgleAugustus PhillipsThe first filmed version of Frankenstein. The young doctor discovers the secret of life, which he uses to create a perfect human. Things do not go according to plan.Not as well known as the 1931 version, and for good reason too. But for the primitive time in which it was made it's an enjoyable adaption of the Merry Shelly novel.
- DirectorFrancesco BertoliniAdolfo PadovanGiuseppe de LiguoroStarsSalvatore PapaArturo PirovanoGiuseppe de LiguoroLoosely adapted from Dante's Divine Comedy and inspired by the illustrations of Gustav Doré the original silent film has been restored and has a new score by Tangerine Dream.An Italian film based on the famous piece of literature Dante's Divine Comedy. One of the first ever feature length films, and the first of it's length to be shown in the US in it's entirety. Not a great film and very very hard to sit through the whole 68 minutes, but there wasn't a whole lot of competition this year.
- DirectorWladyslaw StarewiczMr Beetle seeks companionship from a statuesque dragonfly dancer, unaware that her ex-boyfriend, a slender grasshopper and an industrious cameraman, watches their every move. Will Mrs Beetle forgive him? Will he get away with adultery?Ok, where to start with this one, it really is surreal to say the least. An animated film depicting beetles in everyday life, driving cars, marriage and an adulterous affair!!! Honest even in 1912 the film deals with the darker side of our lives. Anyway this film got my pick both for it's many ideas explored and the boundaries director Wladyslaw Starewicz wasn't afraid to test.
- DirectorHanns Heinz EwersStellan RyeStarsPaul WegenerGrete BergerLyda SalmonovaBalduin, a student of Prague, leaves his roystering companions in the beer garden, when he finds he has reached the end of his resources. He is scarcely seated in a quiet corner when a hideous, shriveled-up old man taps him upon the shoulder and whispers vaguely of a big inheritance for Prague's finest swordsman and wildest student if he will enter into a certain agreement. Balduin rebuffs him, satirically asking his weird companion to procure him "the luckiest ticket in a lottery or a doweried wife." The old man goes off chuckling and thence onward persistently shadows Balduin, exerting a sinister influence over him, while Balduin is still disconsolate under the frowns of fortune. The Countess Margit Schwarzenberg, hunting with her cousin, to whom her father has betrothed her, meets with an accident. She is thrown over her horse's head into a river, but Balduin, who has been directed to the spot by his evil genius, plunges in and rescues her. Subsequently Balduin calls to inquire as to her condition at the castle of her father, the count, but be makes a hurried departure when Baron Waldis arrives, the contrast in their appearance discrediting him. His desire to win the countess and to humiliate the baron becomes so pronounced that he readily accedes to the compact suggested by Scapinelli, the old man, who has so pertinaciously dogged his footsteps, particularly when he learns that untold wealth and power will be his when he assigns to the other the right to take from his room whatever he chooses for his own use as he desires. The agreement is signed. Balduin receives a shower of gold and notes as his portion; Scapinelli takes Balduin's soul exposed in concrete form by his shadow. Balduin prosecutes his love affair assiduously and with apparent success, till the baron is informed of it by a jealous gypsy girl. He challenges Balduin to a duel, and the latter, assured of his superiority as a fencer, readily agrees. Count Schwarzenberg learns of the impending duel and appeals to Balduin not to kill "my sister's child, my daughter's future husband, and my heir." Balduin gives his promise, but when he goes to the venue of the duel he meets, his own counterpart stalking away derisively wiping his gory sword on his cloak. Balduin turns and in the far distance sees the dying victim of the deed he swore he would not do. He rushes from the spot horror-stricken. When he regains sufficient composure he makes his way to the castle of the count, but is refused admission. Determined to explain that he had no complicity in the death of the baron, Balduin climbs into a room in which the countess is seated. She receives him coldly, but soon succumbs to his ardent wooing. Just as he seeks to leave her she notices he has no shadow and that the mirror gives no reflection of him; and she drops back affrighted, the ghastly apparition of himself which takes shape in the corner of the room sends Balduin scuttling away from the castle in a paroxysm of terror. He makes a frenzied flight through a woodland estate and the streets of Prague, but wherever he stops to recover his breath he is haunted by the counterpart of himself. He reaches his rooms and draws a murderous looking fire-arm from its case. As the phantasmagorical figure strides towards him with a sinister grin, he fires, and in a few minutes the blood gushes from his own side from a fatal wound.A few options this year, nothing that really stood out. I went with this film as it's got an interesting story of a young man in love making a deal with the devil, which he later regrets (does it ever end well), and is very well paced for both the length of the film and the era in which it was made.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinRoscoe 'Fatty' ArbucklePhyllis AllenTwo drunks live in the same hotel. One beats his wife, the other is beaten by his. They go off and get drunk together. They try to sleep in a restaurant using tables as beds and are thrown out. They lie down in a rowboat which fills with water, drowning them--a fate apparently better than going home to their wives.The film industry really boomed in 1914. This was in no small part due to the arrival of the first genuine star of the big screen, Charlie Chaplin. This short involves his famous 'tramp' character getting into his usual comedic mishaps.
- DirectorD.W. GriffithStarsLillian GishMae MarshHenry B. WalthallThe Stoneman family finds its friendship with the Camerons affected by the Civil War, both fighting in opposite armies. The development of the war in their lives plays through to Lincoln's assassination and the birth of the Ku Klux Klan.Two must see movies, on many noted film lists, and a handful of Chaplin shorts, made this year an interesting one. I went with the better known of the two films with 'The Birth of a nation'. While it's not always as historically correct as it claims to be, this film really is an epic of the era. Has hints of 'Gone with the wind' to it and is filled with some pretty impressive battle scenes on a grand scale.
- DirectorD.W. GriffithStarsLillian GishRobert HarronMae MarshThe story of a poor young woman separated by prejudice from her husband and baby is interwoven with tales of intolerance from throughout history.Another entry from director D.W. Griffith. This tale is told in 4 different sections from varied time periods across the decades, all with the common theme of intolerance at the heart of the story. Not quite as controversial as last years film, but just as groundbreaking and done on an epic scale as always.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinEdna PurvianceEric CampbellCharlie is an immigrant who endures a challenging voyage and gets into trouble as soon as he arrives in America.By this stage Chaplin had established himself as a prominent figure of the silent era, he was also showing great improvement in both comedic and directional skills from his earlier films.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinEdna PurvianceDave AndersonThe Little Tramp and his dog companion struggle to survive in the inner city.A quit year all round for the movie world. I choose one of Charlie Chaplin's shorts again this year, his 3rd time making the list now. This one has the tramp getting by in the city with the help of his new found dog Scraps.
- DirectorD.W. GriffithStarsLillian GishRichard BarthelmessDonald CrispA frail waif, abused by her brutal boxer father in London's seedy Limehouse District, is befriended by a sensitive Chinese immigrant with tragic consequences.D.W Griffith returns to this list the only way he knows how! Being controversial, groundbreaking and very very racist all at the same time. This film takes a darker tone and slower pace then his previous entries but is just as revolutionary. Was also included in the 1001 movies to watch before you die.
- DirectorRobert WieneStarsWerner KraussConrad VeidtFriedrich FeherHypnotist Dr. Caligari uses a somnambulist, Cesare, to commit murders.This suspenseful German film keeps the viewer guessing right up to the final scene. Full of twists and turns a solid horror flick all around. On a side note the legend that is John Barrymore gives a standout performance as the lead in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, that same year.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinEdna PurvianceJackie CooganThe Tramp cares for an abandoned child, but events put their relationship in jeopardy.The first of Chaplin's classics, apart from a few scenes that really don't hold up today, it is a true comedic masterpiece. Not only was it leaps and bounds above anything that came before it, it's hard to describe the significance and influence this film had and still has on film making.
Another film of note, in what was a very enjoyable year for me, would be "The Phantom Carriage" which would have probably won the award on any other given year to date. - DirectorF.W. MurnauStarsMax SchreckAlexander GranachGustav von WangenheimVampire Count Orlok expresses interest in a new residence and real estate agent Hutter's wife.An easy choice this time. A true marvel of film making for the period. And an absolute must see for any film studies student or just horror fans in general. Also the first iconic depiction of 'Dracula', which ranks right up there with Bela Lugosi's version of the iconic vampire.
- DirectorFred C. NewmeyerSam TaylorStarsHarold LloydMildred DavisBill StrotherA boy leaves his small country town and heads to the big city to get a job. As soon as he makes it big his sweetheart will join him and marry him. His enthusiasm to get ahead leads to some interesting adventures.A true gem of the silent era. This comedy kept me entertained and smiling throughout. If I'm being completely honest I wasn't aware of the main star of this flick Harold Lloyd. Saying that however Mr. Lloyd puts in a performance that matches the majority of Chaplin/ Keaton performances of the 1920's.
- DirectorRaoul WalshStarsDouglas FairbanksJulanne JohnstonSnitz EdwardsA recalcitrant thief vies with a duplicitous Mongol ruler for the hand of a beautiful princess.With special effects that amazed and dazzled audiences for years after it's release, and a adventure tale on a grand scale. 'The Thief of Bagdad' is a welcome addition to this list. Unfortunately nowhere near as good as it's 1940 remake.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinMack SwainTom MurrayA prospector goes to the Klondike during the 1890s gold rush in hopes of making his fortune, and is smitten with a girl he sees in a dance hall.In a year where the silent era was reaching it's peek in terms of the quality and quantity of the movies being released, it was a Chaplin masterclass that rose above the rest. To this day I can sit and watch this gem and still end up laughing out loud at some scenes.
- DirectorClyde BruckmanBuster KeatonStarsBuster KeatonMarion MackGlen CavenderAfter being rejected by the Confederate military, not realizing it was due to his crucial civilian role, an engineer must single-handedly recapture his beloved locomotive after it is seized by Union spies and return it through enemy lines.Another year, another comedy classic and another silent era star. Buster Keaton's comedic set pieces really are second too none, especially when you take into account the fact that he does all of these said stunts himself.
- DirectorFritz LangStarsBrigitte HelmAlfred AbelGustav FröhlichIn a futuristic city sharply divided between the working class and the city planners, the son of the city's mastermind falls in love with a working-class prophet who predicts the coming of a savior to mediate their differences.Hands down the best silent film to ever be created. A true materclass in film making. Fritz Lang delivers on so many levels, miles above anything that came before it and even after it, science fiction wise, for decades.
A MUST watch. - DirectorKing VidorStarsEleanor BoardmanJames MurrayBert RoachThe life of a man and woman together in a large, impersonal metropolis through their hopes, struggles, and downfalls.A solid addition to this list, by no means a classic and a year or two away from the 'talkies' taking centre stage. But still a good watch all the same.
- DirectorRobert FloreyJoseph SantleyStarsGroucho MarxHarpo MarxChico MarxDuring the Florida land boom, The Marx Brothers run a hotel, auction off some land, thwart a jewel robbery, and generally act like themselves.1929 was an important year for two reasons. One there was real evidence of the transition from silent films to talking films, with more studios seeing the early signs in popularity and financially. Secondly 1929 was the last year that I can think of with no standout films or any films of any real quality for that matter.
This Marxs bro's comedy (taken directly from there hit broadway show) is a good indication of where movies were heading over the next few years. - DirectorLewis MilestoneStarsLew AyresLouis WolheimJohn WrayA German youth eagerly enters World War I, but his enthusiasm wanes as he gets a firsthand view of the horror.Not only the best movie of what was a good year, but hands down one of the greatest war films ever made.
- DirectorFritz LangStarsPeter LorreEllen WidmannInge LandgutWhen the police in a German city are unable to catch a child-murderer, other criminals join in the manhunt.Considered another monumental year in the history books, the Universal Pictures horror franchise cemented it's place in history with iconic film adaptions of Frankenstein and Dracula. Charlie Chaplin created what many consider to be his greatest movie in City lights. But for me Fritz lang's film classic is a MUST see.
- DirectorEdmund GouldingStarsGreta GarboJohn BarrymoreJoan CrawfordA group of very different individuals staying at a luxurious hotel in Berlin deal with each of their respective dramas.1932 was somewhat of a disappointment compared too the progress and ground breaking years of 30/31. All the same "Grand Hotel" is a joy too watch, perfects the formula of a star studded cast mixed with a simple well written lighthearted script.
- DirectorLeo McCareyStarsGroucho MarxHarpo MarxChico MarxRufus T. Firefly is named the dictator of bankrupt Freedonia and declares war on neighboring Sylvania over the love of his wealthy backer Mrs. Teasdale, contending with two inept spies who can't seem to keep straight which side they're on.One of the best slapstick / goofball comedies I have ever seen. Stands the test of time, the Marx brother at their gut bursting peek.
- DirectorFrank CapraStarsClark GableClaudette ColbertWalter ConnollyA rogue reporter trailing a runaway heiress for a big story joins her on a bus heading from Florida to New York and they end up stuck with each other when the bus leaves them behind at one of the stops along the way.The blueprint for ANY romantic comedy. This film is a joy to watch, the pacing is perfect, the chemistry (on-screen) between the main characters is the envoy of every rom-com today, and the writing/script gets everything just right. Again the quintessential rom-com, some would even say the film that made the genre popular.
- DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsRobert DonatMadeleine CarrollLucie MannheimA man in London tries to help a counter-espionage agent, but when the agent is killed and the man stands accused, he must go on the run to save himself and stop a spy ring that is trying to steal top-secret information.Could have gone with a number of decent movies from this year "A Night at the Opera" "Mutiny on the Bounty" etc. But I went with this Hitchcock piece as I feel it's the directors first genuine great film. It's a little rough around the edges as the director was perfecting his formula but there are all the signs and hallmarks of the more known later works.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinPaulette GoddardHenry BergmanThe Tramp struggles to live in modern industrial society with the help of a young homeless woman.Some real hidden gems this year too be found, see "Dodsworth" or "My Man Godfrey" if you don't believe me. But there was always going too be one winner here with this true classic.
- DirectorJean RenoirStarsJean GabinDita ParloPierre FresnayDuring WWI, two French soldiers are captured and imprisoned in a German P.O.W. camp. Several escape attempts follow until they are eventually sent to a seemingly inescapable fortress.The mid-late 1930's really did produce great content at a consistent rate. Another delightful year for me, and this French war film is still too this day one of my favorite war films of all time.
- DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsMargaret LockwoodMichael RedgravePaul LukasWhile travelling in continental Europe, a rich young playgirl realizes that an elderly lady seems to have disappeared from the train.Remember everything I said about "The 39 Steps". Well this tops that on every level. Thrilling too watch, well developed and enjoyable characters and the pacing is perfection, which would have been a problem with the directors previous works.
- DirectorVictor FlemingGeorge CukorSam WoodStarsClark GableVivien LeighThomas MitchellA sheltered and manipulative Southern belle and a roguish profiteer face off in a turbulent romance as the society around them crumbles with the end of slavery and is rebuilt during the Civil War and Reconstruction periods.Classic year, and classic movie. No more needs too be said.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinPaulette GoddardJack OakieDictator Adenoid Hynkel tries to expand his empire while a poor Jewish barber tries to avoid persecution from Hynkel's regime.Another monumental year in the history of film as we know it today. In what really was the golden age of great movies, it would take something special too win this year. And along comes Chaplin's masterpiece. With a final speech that is still relevant in today's world and used in many forms of art, music, even consistently popping up on social media over 75 years onward.
- DirectorOrson WellesStarsOrson WellesJoseph CottenDorothy ComingoreFollowing the death of publishing tycoon Charles Foster Kane, reporters scramble to uncover the meaning of his final utterance: 'Rosebud.'Not much too say here. 1941 carried on the run of pure quality films being poured out. "Citizen Kane" even being the greatest film too date on this list in my view.
- DirectorMichael CurtizStarsHumphrey BogartIngrid BergmanPaul HenreidA cynical expatriate American cafe owner struggles to decide whether or not to help his former lover and her fugitive husband escape the Nazis in French Morocco.A Masterpiece.
- DirectorMichael PowellEmeric PressburgerStarsRoger LiveseyDeborah KerrAnton WalbrookFrom the Boer War through World War II, a soldier rises through the ranks in the British military.A slight drop in quality overall (All be it the world was somewhat preoccupied at the time). I've gone with an English film this time for a change.
- DirectorBilly WilderStarsFred MacMurrayBarbara StanwyckEdward G. RobinsonA Los Angeles insurance representative lets an alluring housewife seduce him into a scheme of insurance fraud and murder that arouses the suspicion of his colleague, an insurance investigator.The quintessential Film-Noir EVER made. Perfected the genre and has not been matched since.
- DirectorMarcel CarnéStarsArlettyJean-Louis BarraultPierre BrasseurThe theatrical life of a beautiful courtesan in 1830s Paris and the four men who love her.I had never heard of this film before I watched it. But I was completely immersed throughout the entire 3 hour plus run time. This french gem instantly became one of my all time favorites. Quick mention for "The Lost Weekend" of the same year, which is HANDS DOWN the best and most realistic depiction of alcoholism ever put too screen.
- DirectorFrank CapraStarsJames StewartDonna ReedLionel BarrymoreAn angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.The greatest Christmas movie ever made. One of my all time favorites, a must see no matter what age or stage of life you are in.
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinMady CorrellAllison RoddanA suave but cynical man supports his family by marrying and murdering rich women for their money, but the job has some occupational hazards.Too be perfectly honest, I had never heard of lesser known Chaplin gem. But after a viewing this one certainly holds up with the mans best work.
- DirectorVittorio De SicaStarsLamberto MaggioraniEnzo StaiolaLianella CarellIn post-war Italy, a working-class man's bicycle is stolen, endangering his efforts to find work. He and his son set out to find it.A tale of a man and his son trying to find his stolen bicycle. This Italian masterpiece is a must watch!
- DirectorCarol ReedStarsOrson WellesJoseph CottenAlida ValliPulp novelist Holly Martins travels to shadowy, postwar Vienna, only to find himself investigating the mysterious death of an old friend, Harry Lime.A great mystery film that holds up for me today. Easy too watch and highly recommendable for anyone looking to view an old film-Noir style movie.
- DirectorBilly WilderStarsWilliam HoldenGloria SwansonErich von StroheimA screenwriter develops a dangerous relationship with a faded film star determined to make a triumphant return.A classic, in a year FULL of classics. This one edged out films like "All About Eve" and "Rashomon" in a year that is iconic to the film industry, up there with 1994 and 1939/1940 in terms of quality.
- DirectorElia KazanStarsVivien LeighMarlon BrandoKim HunterDisturbed Blanche DuBois moves in with her sister in New Orleans and is tormented by her brutish brother-in-law while her reality crumbles around her.Somewhat of a disappointing year after the one before. However this adaption of the classic stage play makes up for it. And by god Brando has hit the screen in all his glory!!
- DirectorAkira KurosawaStarsTakashi ShimuraNobuo KanekoShin'ichi HimoriA bureaucrat tries to find meaning in his life after he discovers he has terminal cancer.A year of gems for me, "singin' in the Rain", "High Noon" John Wayne in "The Quiet Man" and even Charlie Chaplin's last great masterpiece!! But out of all these films of which I'd heard of but did not know were all released in the same year, it was an unknown film that really blew me away!! A must watch moving film, off the top of my head I can't think of any film after The Shawshank Redemption that has been able too touch me in such a way.
- DirectorBilly WilderStarsWilliam HoldenDon TaylorOtto PremingerAfter two Americans are killed while escaping from a German P.O.W. camp in World War II, the barracks black marketeer, J.J. Sefton, is suspected of being an informer.A few decent movies this year, but nothing that really stood out for me. My choice is a good watch that even had a TV series "Hogan's Hero's" based on it.
- DirectorAkira KurosawaStarsToshirô MifuneTakashi ShimuraKeiko TsushimaFarmers from a village exploited by bandits hire a veteran samurai for protection, who gathers six other samurai to join him.A very very hard choice this year. But "Seven Samurai" is one of the best films EVER made!! I'm not going too go into detail, if you haven't watched it just watch it, simple as. "Rear Window" also deserves a mention being Hitchcocks best film too date, but missing out on this list.
- DirectorAlexander MackendrickStarsAlec GuinnessPeter SellersCecil ParkerFive oddball criminals planning a bank robbery rent rooms on a cul-de-sac from an octogenarian widow under the pretext that they are classical musicians.This oddball British cult classic takes the award this year. Not because it stands out as a masterpiece but more so the poor year it was for films in general.
- DirectorJohn FordStarsJohn WayneJeffrey HunterVera MilesAn American Civil War veteran embarks on a years-long journey to rescue his niece from the Comanches after the rest of his brother's family is massacred in a raid on their Texas farm.One of the better John Ford/ John Wayne westerns. A good watch in what proved too be another poor year overall quality wise.
- DirectorSidney LumetStarsHenry FondaLee J. CobbMartin BalsamThe jury in a New York City murder trial is frustrated by a single member whose skeptical caution forces them to more carefully consider the evidence before jumping to a hasty verdict.1957 has got too be up there with 1994/1940 when it comes too the best year in the film industry. 12 Angry Men is essential viewing for anyone of any taste, as it is the most insightful character study that comes too mind.
Other notable films "The Seventh Seal" "Paths of Glory" "Witness for the Prosecution" "Wild Strawberries" and "The Bridge on the River Kwai" - DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsJames StewartKim NovakBarbara Bel GeddesA former San Francisco police detective juggles wrestling with his personal demons and becoming obsessed with the hauntingly beautiful woman he has been hired to trail, who may be deeply disturbed.A solid year, and a solid Hitchcock movie. Nothing groundbreaking here but certainly one for fans of the directors collections.
- DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsCary GrantEva Marie SaintJames MasonA New York City advertising executive goes on the run after being mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies, and falls for a woman whose loyalties he begins to doubt.One of Hitchcock's better films. Like a fine wine this director really did produce his best material later on in his career. On a side note Cary Grants performance here shows why he was the first choice too play James Bond in "Doctor No". The only thing that held him back was his age at the time.
- DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsAnthony PerkinsJanet LeighVera MilesA Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer's client, goes on the run and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother.Hitchcock has popped up in this list for the last 30 years. 30 years at the top of any profession is something to be heralded. Whats even more amazing is that after 30 years, this is his most complete well rounded film. Too this day hands down a mile above any suspense/horror film released today.
"The Apartment" deserves a special mention as well, any other year it would have probably won a must must watch!! - DirectorStanley KramerStarsSpencer TracyBurt LancasterRichard WidmarkIn 1948, an American court in occupied Germany tries four Nazis judged for war crimes.Another solid year, and another solid film. Good showing all around, but there are some real standout performances from the older nearly forgotten actors who hadn't had a major hit in a while. Tracy Dietrich put in some of there best work I've ever seen. A film that wasn't afraid too go deep into the horrors of world war two from all sides unlike many other films of the genre, which glorify the Americans for no reason, other then too lie too the viewer.
- DirectorDavid LeanStarsPeter O'TooleAlec GuinnessAnthony QuinnThe story of T.E. Lawrence, the English officer who successfully united and led the diverse, often warring, Arab tribes during World War I in order to fight the Turks.A true epic in every sense of the word. Sit back as this is a long one, but well worth the watch. The sweeping music score, the stunning visuals and the performances and writing are all on point. Many films tried and are still trying too recreate an epic of this extent, while the majority of them fail. The quintessential movie too see on a big screen.
- DirectorJohn SturgesStarsSteve McQueenJames GarnerRichard AttenboroughAllied prisoners of war plan for several hundred of their number to escape from a German camp during World War II.Another movie on a grand scale this year. This time the setting is a POW camp during WW2. Full of stars, suspense, highs and lows. Surprisingly one of my favourite movies too watch when it comes on during the Christmas period. Highly recommend this one and and easy watch.
- 19641h 35mPG8.4 (519K)97MetascoreDirectorStanley KubrickStarsPeter SellersGeorge C. ScottSterling HaydenAn unhinged American general orders a bombing attack on the Soviet Union, triggering a path to nuclear holocaust that a war room full of politicians and generals frantically tries to stop.Great, absolutely hilarious!! Not just the best comedy of the year, one of the best comedy's ever made. And by who? Stanley Kubrick of all people! Such an easy one too watch, great performances and a script that is just flawless.
- DirectorSergio LeoneStarsClint EastwoodLee Van CleefGian Maria VolontèTwo bounty hunters with the same intentions team up to track down a gang of outlaws led by a psychotic Mexican bandit, who is plotting an audacious bank robbery.The second Sergio Leone western and by far more complete then the first. A big influence too today's cinema with directors, especially Tarantino taking great inspiration from this film. Stylish, great developed characters and a soundtrack that film today wish they could have. A must watch!!
- DirectorSergio LeoneStarsClint EastwoodEli WallachLee Van CleefA bounty hunting scam joins two men in an uneasy alliance against a third in a race to find a fortune in gold buried in a remote cemetery.After all I said about the second installment, Sergio Leone and Eastwood return. I can't even do this film justice with a few lines. A defining film, and one of the all time greats.
- DirectorStuart RosenbergStarsPaul NewmanGeorge KennedyStrother MartinA laid-back Southern man is sentenced to two years in a rural prison, but refuses to conform.No obvious classics this year as we were so used to in the previous years. Still a handful of very very good watches. I went with this Paul Newman joy, but it could have easily gone to Dustin Hoffman and the 'Graduate' only for the final third of that film going downhill.
- DirectorSergio LeoneStarsHenry FondaCharles BronsonClaudia CardinaleA mysterious stranger with a harmonica joins forces with a notorious desperado to protect a beautiful widow from a ruthless assassin working for the railroad.Sergio Leone is back on this list again. With another absolute showcase of this masters craft. Any fans of film really do have to watch Leone's work it's perfection, the scores, the pacing and character building which never fails too pay off.
Side note 'Rosemary's Baby' '2001 a Space Odyssey' 'Night of the Living Dead' and 'Planet of the Apes' all came out this year. 1968 will go down as one of the most influential years of film.