Movies Set In The 1950s

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont and starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. Adapted from the Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, the film tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker who is wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to life in the Shawshank State Penitentiary. Over the course of his time in prison, Andy befriends Red, the prison's elderly contraband smuggler, and eventually earns the trust of the prison's corrupt warden, Norton. As Andy strives to overcome the hopelessness of his situation and maintain his dignity, he comes to find solace and eventual redemption through his friendship with Red and his unwavering belief in the power of hope.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather is a 1972 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, based on the novel by Mario Puzo. The movie follows the story of the Corleone crime family, led by the patriarch Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando). After the death of an influential family member, Vito’s youngest son Michael (Al Pacino) reluctantly takes over the family business, with help from his hot-headed brother Sonny (James Caan) and consigliere Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall). As the family rises to power, they face threats from rival gangs and the police. Michael attempts to expand the family’s influence while staying out of the criminal underworld. As the story progresses, Michael must make difficult decisions that will have far-reaching consequences. The Godfather is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time and has won numerous awards, including three Academy Awards.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather Part II is the acclaimed sequel to the 1972 classic, The Godfather. The movie follows Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) as he solidifies the Corleone family’s hold on the Mafia underworld while struggling with the consequences of his past actions. In addition to Michael’s story, we are introduced to a young Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro), as he rises to power in 1920’s New York. The film is considered to be one of the greatest sequels ever made and won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The Godfather Part II is a powerful exploration of power, loyalty, and the American dream.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Sally Field
Rated PG-13

Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) is a slow-witted but kind-hearted man from Alabama who has an uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time. Throughout his life, Forrest meets historical figures and is present during significant moments in history, from shaking hands with President Kennedy to fighting in Vietnam. Despite his limitations, he overcomes challenges with the help of his best friend, Jenny (Robin Wright), and finds success in many areas of his life. Ultimately, Forrest discovers that life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you're going to get.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco
Rated R

Goodfellas is a 1990 crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese. It follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a small-time gangster in the 1950s in New York. The film details his involvement with the Lucchese crime family and his associates, Tommy DeVito and Jimmy Conway. The film chronicles the life of Henry Hill and his gang through the various stages of their criminal activities, from their early days as "goodfellas" to their eventual downfall. It follows their adventures, from stealing from warehouses, to loan sharking, to drugs and murder. The film is considered one of the best gangster movies of all time and was nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover
Rated PG

“Back to the Future” is a classic time-traveling adventure comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Michael J. Fox. The film follows the story of Marty McFly, a young high school student who is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean created by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown. With the help of the 1955 Doc Brown, Marty must figure out a way to get back to the future. Along the way, he runs into his teenage parents, gets caught up in some wild hijinks, and ultimately helps his parents to fall in love. In the end, Marty is able to return to 1985 and correct the future, ensuring that he will actually exist. This classic film, filled with humor, nostalgia, and a great soundtrack, is a must-see for fans of the genre.

From Alfred Hitchcock, starring Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin
Rated R

Psycho is a classic 1960 psychological horror film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. It follows the story of Marion Crane, a young woman who steals money from her employer and goes on the run. She winds up at the Bates Motel, where she meets the strange proprietor, Norman Bates, who is dominated by his possessive mother. Marion soon finds out that Norman is not what he seems, and as her stay at the motel gets longer, her fate spirals out of control. As the story builds to its shocking conclusion, the audience learns the horrific truth behind the mysterious Bates family.

From Curtis Hanson, starring Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kim Basinger
Rated R

L.A. Confidential is a 1997 neo-noir crime drama directed by Curtis Hanson and adapted from the novel of the same name by James Ellroy. The film follows three Los Angeles police officers who become involved in a murder investigation that reveals corruption and dark secrets. The officers—Ed Exley (Guy Pearce), Bud White (Russell Crowe), and Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey)—find themselves in the midst of a dangerous conspiracy involving a powerful businessman, a ruthless mobster, and a high-profile call girl. With its intricate plot and compelling characters, L.A. Confidential is hailed as a modern classic and one of the greatest films of all time.

From Ron Howard, starring Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly, Christopher Plummer
Rated PG-13

A Beautiful Mind is a 2001 biographical drama directed by Ron Howard and starring Russell Crowe. The film is based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. The story follows Nash's journey from a brilliant young scholar at Princeton University to his struggle with schizophrenia, and his life as a Nobel Prize-winning mathematician. In the film, Nash is initially portrayed as a genius, but as his mental health deteriorates, he struggles to maintain a sense of reality. Along the way, Nash is supported by his wife, Alicia, and his friends. Ultimately, Nash is able to overcome his illness and come to terms with his own identity. The film was critically acclaimed and won numerous awards, including four Oscars.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Mortimer, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley
Rated R

Shutter Island is a psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Set in 1954, the film follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (DiCaprio) and his partner Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo) as they investigate a mental hospital located on Shutter Island, which is home to the criminally insane. During their investigation, Teddy discovers that the hospital’s staff are hiding secrets, leading him to believe that the hospital is not what it appears to be. As the mystery deepens, Teddy is forced to confront a dark past that has haunted him for years, and he must decide whether to follow the truth or succumb to the island’s illusions.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent
Rated R

Raging Bull is a biographical black-and-white sports drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta, an Italian-American middleweight boxer whose self-destructive and obsessive rage, sexual jealousy, and animalistic appetite destroyed his relationship with his wife and family. The film chronicles LaMotta's career as a boxer and his struggles with self-destructive behavior and social disapproval resulting from his tumultuous personal life. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, having been chosen for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress and is also included in the BFI list of the 50 films you should see by the age of 14.

From Rob Reiner, starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell
Rated R

Stand by Me is a coming-of-age drama film directed by Rob Reiner and based on the novella "The Body" by Stephen King. It tells the story of four young boys - Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern - who embark on a journey to find the body of a missing teenager in the woods near their small Oregon town. Along the way, they confront their fears, form a bond, and grow closer together. As they face the dangers of the wilderness, they also come to terms with their own mortality and realize the power of friendship. The film is acclaimed for its heartfelt story and strong performances from the cast, as well as for its nostalgic depiction of 1950s America.

From Brad Bird, starring Eli Marienthal, Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Aniston, Vin Diesel
Rated PG

The Iron Giant is a 1999 American animated science fiction adventure film produced by Warner Bros. Animation and directed by Brad Bird. The film is based on the 1968 novel The Iron Man by Ted Hughes and stars the voices of Eli Marienthal, Christopher McDonald, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick, Jr., John Mahoney, and Vin Diesel. The film follows the adventure of a 9-year-old boy named Hogarth Hughes who discovers a giant robot that fell from space. Hogarth befriends the robot and together they must protect the town and its citizens from a federal agent who wants to capture the robot and use it for military purposes. Along the way, Hogarth learns the importance of friendship and self-sacrifice. The Iron Giant is a heartwarming and inspiring story that teaches the value of friendship and loyalty.

From Peter Weir, starring Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles
Rated PG

Dead Poets Society is a 1989 drama film directed by Peter Weir, written by Tom Schulman, and starring Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, and Ethan Hawke. Set in 1959 at the fictional Welton Academy, a prestigious prep school in New England, the film follows an English teacher, John Keating (Williams), who inspires a group of students to a love of poetry and teaches them to "suck the marrow out of life" by seizing the day. The students, led by Neil Perry (Leonard), form a secret society, the "Dead Poets Society," in which they read and discuss poetry and encourage one another to pursue their dreams and make their lives extraordinary. As Keating's teaching methods clash with the conservative standards of the school's administration and Neil's overbearing father, a powerful struggle for freedom and self-expression ensues with tragic consequences.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Hitoshi Takagi, Noriko Hidaka, Chika Sakamoto, Shigesato Itoi
Rated G

My Neighbor Totoro is a classic animated film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and released in 1988. The film follows the story of two young girls, Mei and Satsuki, who move with their father to a new home in the countryside to be closer to their ailing mother who is in the hospital. One day, Mei and Satsuki discover a family of magical creatures, known as Totoros, living in a nearby forest. With the help of the Totoros, they embark on a series of magical adventures, exploring the wonders of nature and learning valuable life lessons. Along the way, they also learn how to cope with the pain of missing their mother. The film is a gentle and magical story about the power of friendship and family, and the joys of childhood.

From Gillo Pontecorvo, starring Brahim Hadjadj, Jean Martin, Yacef Saadi, Samia Kerbash
Rated Not Rated

The Battle of Algiers is a 1966 Italian-Algerian war drama film directed by Gillo Pontecorvo. It portrays the events that happened in the Algerian city of Algiers during the Algerian War (1954-1962) between the Algerian independence movement and the French government. The film is divided into three acts: the setup, the battle, and the aftermath. The first act introduces the characters of the film and explains the context of the Algerian War, as well as the strategies used by both sides. The second act follows the National Liberation Front (FLN) as they launch a series of attacks against the French government, with increasingly violent tactics. The third act shows the French retaliation, the FLN’s response, and the ultimate victory of the Algerian independence movement. The film is notable for its realistic depiction of the conflict, its attempts to show the humanity on both sides, and its unflinching look at the tactics used by both sides. The Battle of Algiers has been widely praised for its historical accuracy and its powerful message.

From Tim Burton, starring Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup, Jessica Lange
Rated PG-13

Big Fish is a 2003 fantasy drama film directed by Tim Burton and written by John August. The film tells the story of Edward Bloom (Albert Finney/Ewan McGregor), a man who loves to tell stories about his life. As his son Will (Billy Crudup) prepares to marry and have children of his own, he discovers that his father's stories may not all be true. In order to discover the truth behind his father's life, Will embarks on a journey that spans locations and eras in Edward's life. Along the way, Will comes to understand his father and his life's journey, as well as learning to appreciate Edward's stories.

From Je-kyu Kang, starring Jang Dong-Gun, Won Bin, Eun-ju Lee, Hyeong-jin Kong
Rated R

Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War is a 2004 South Korean war drama film directed by Je-kyu Kang. The film follows a brother's struggle to survive and protect each other during the tumultuous times of the Korean War. Younger brother Jin-tae (Jang Dong-gun) is forced to enlist in the army, while his older sibling Jin-seok (Won Bin) volunteers to join him despite the protests of their mother. As they fight on the front lines, their bonds of brotherhood are stretched to the breaking point by the horrors of war. Faced with impossible odds, Jin-tae and Jin-seok must rely on their courage and strength to survive and return home alive.

From Alan Parker, starring Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson, Eleanor David
Rated R

Pink Floyd: The Wall is a 1982 British live-action/animated musical drama film directed by Alan Parker, based on the 1979 Pink Floyd album The Wall. It stars Bob Geldof as protagonist Pink, a jaded rock star whose inner turmoil and personal issues manifest in the form of a metaphorical wall. As the film follows Pink on his journey of self-discovery, he is forced to confront his personal demons and explore the true meaning of life. The film combines surrealist imagery, animation, and live-action sequences to create a visually stunning and emotionally haunting story that has since become a cult classic. It also features an iconic soundtrack by Pink Floyd, as well as an original score by composer and lyricist Roger Waters.

From Peter Bogdanovich, starring Timothy Bottoms, Jeff Bridges, Cybill Shepherd, Ben Johnson
Rated R

The Last Picture Show is a 1971 drama film directed by Peter Bogdanovich and based on the novel of the same name by Larry McMurtry. Set in a small Texas town in 1951, the film follows the story of two teenage boys, Sonny (Timothy Bottoms) and Duane (Jeff Bridges), who are struggling to find their place in the world. As they try to make sense of their changing lives, they find themselves caught up in a series of complex relationships with their friends, family, and the people in the town. Through their interactions, the boys come to terms with their own mortality and the fading of their small town. Ultimately, the film is a bittersweet look at the innocence of youth and the inevitability of change.

From Federico Fellini, starring Marcello Mastroianni, Anita Ekberg, Anouk Aimée, Yvonne Furneaux
Rated Not Rated

La Dolce Vita is a 1960 Italian comedy-drama film directed by Federico Fellini. The film follows a week in the life of Marcello Rubini, a tabloid journalist. Marcello is plunged into a series of escapades and encounters with the high society of Rome, including the hedonistic lifestyles of the rich and famous. As he becomes increasingly bored and disillusioned with his life, Marcello is forced to confront his own values, beliefs and morality. The film is widely seen as a commentary on modern society and its decadence, as represented by the debauchery of the upper classes. La Dolce Vita is a landmark in cinema history and one of Fellini's most iconic films.

From Tim Burton, starring Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, Anthony Michael Hall
Rated PG-13

Edward Scissorhands is a 1990 American romantic fantasy film directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp. The film tells the story of an artificial man named Edward, an unfinished creation, who has scissor blades instead of hands. After being taken in by a suburban family, he struggles to fit in and understand human emotions. Despite his strange appearance, he befriends a brave young woman, Kim, and falls in love with her. However, his uniqueness soon causes problems in the suburban town, and Edward must confront the deep-seated prejudices of the community. In the end, Edward must choose between a life of seclusion and a life with the woman he loves.

From John Frankenheimer, starring Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh, Angela Lansbury
Rated PG-13

The Manchurian Candidate is a 1962 Cold War suspense thriller directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh, and Angela Lansbury. The film follows the story of a former prisoner of war, Raymond Shaw (Harvey) who is brainwashed and conditioned to become an unwitting political assassin in a communist plot against the United States. The experiment is led by Shaw's stepmother (Lansbury), and supported by a powerful political figure, with the goal of helping him win the Vice Presidential nomination. With the help of his former sergeant (Sinatra), Shaw gradually begins to remember his past, and must decide whether to follow the orders he has been given or to stand up and fight for what is right.

From Richard Brooks, starring Robert Blake, Scott Wilson, John Forsythe, Paul Stewart
Rated R

In Cold Blood is a 1967 American crime film directed by Richard Brooks and based on Truman Capote's non-fiction novel of the same name. The film follows the story of two drifters as they make their way across the American Midwest in a quest to commit the perfect crime. Along the way, they stop in a small Kansas town, where they murder an entire family of four in cold blood. The film follows the police investigation as they piece together the clues that eventually lead to the capture of the two men responsible. It also follows the trial, conviction, and eventual executions of the two men. The film is a powerful and gripping look into the darkness of human nature and the tragic consequences of violence. It also serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and the importance of justice.

From David Fincher, starring Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton, Julia Ormond
Rated PG-13

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a 2008 fantasy drama directed by David Fincher, based on the 1922 short story of the same name by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It stars Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. The film tells the story of Benjamin Button, a man who is born in his eighties and ages backwards. Throughout his life, he experiences unusual events and meets interesting people, all while aging in reverse. Throughout the film, Benjamin discovers the harsh realities of life, love, and death, while learning valuable lessons and discovering his true purpose in life.