Oscars 1964: International Gems from Irma la Douce to Luchino Visconti's Masterpieces
57 titles
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Irma la DouceMovie · 1963 · 147m · Romance, ComedyThis drama centers on the evolving relationship between a police officer and a prostitute. As they grow closer, the officer develops an unusual plan to shield her: he assumes a secret identity as her only client, preventing other men from seeing her.
The film examines love, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity in a world where difficult choices are common. It portrays the protagonists' emotional journey with sensitivity, as they face challenges that test their trust and devotion.
The story reveals a complex network of secrets and lies, highlighting the unexpected power of love. Ultimately, the film explores the lengths people will go to protect those they care about, even if their actions are questioned.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 2
The CaretakersMovie · 1963 · 97mThe film follows the experiences of patients with mental illness and the people who care for them within a crowded hospital ward.IMDb 5.6TMDB 6.2 - 3
Tom JonesMovie · 1963 · 128m · Comedy, Adventure, HistoryThis touching film explores the love story of Tom and Sophie, whose different social classes create obstacles for their relationship. Though deeply in love and connected, they face challenges from societal expectations and class differences. As they struggle with these difficulties, they must decide if their love can overcome these barriers or if destiny has a different path in store.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9 - 4
Los TarantosMovie · 1963 · 83mRomeo and Juliet: A young man and woman, belonging to opposing families, develop a romantic relationship.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2 - 5
Twin Sisters of KyotoMovie · 1963 · 106mA young woman in rural Japan learns she has a twin sister, abandoned at birth due to local superstition. Her parents claim the sister was kidnapped, but the daughter doubts this. When they finally meet, both sisters become involved in romantic relationships. The daughter's relationship with an educated man becomes complicated as she begins to suspect his affections may be directed towards her sister.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 6
The CriticMovie · 1963 · 4m · Animation, ComedyThis creative and humorous film follows Mel Brooks, the celebrated comedian and director, in his later years. Reflecting on his life, he discovers abstract animation – a world of vibrant shapes, colors, and movement – that deeply fascinates him. The film skillfully blends Brooks' personal story with these surreal animations, revealing his thoughts, feelings, and reflections on a career dedicated to making people laugh and creating lasting art. The result is an intimate look at Mel Brooks, highlighting both his comedic talent and his surprising connection to this unusual art form.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 7
America AmericaMovie · 1963 · 174m · Drama, HistoryA young man from a Greek community in Anatolia journeys to early 20th century Istanbul carrying his family's wealth. His hopes for a new life in America are shattered when the fortune is lost in the city. He must then confront hardship and learn important lessons as he strives to achieve his dreams. This story of growing up highlights determination and the fight for a better future.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 8
The BalconyMovie · 1963 · 84mIn a nation on the brink of revolution, the madam of a brothel caters to the desires of her clientele.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.0 - 9
The LeopardMovie · 1963 · 186m · DramaAs Giuseppe Garibaldi's revolution transforms Italy, the Sicilian Salina family, long established in the aristocracy, faces a changing world. Prince Don Fabrizio Salina, balancing pride and realism, arranges a marriage for his nephew Tancredi to secure the family’s future. Tancredi marries Angelica, the stunning daughter of the newly wealthy Don Calogero, as a calculated move to maintain their status and power. This powerful story explores the difficulties that emerge when old traditions clash with progress, prompting reflection on the price of embracing change.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 10
Lilies of the FieldMovie · 1963 · 94m · Comedy, DramaA drama about an unemployed construction worker who gets stranded at a remote farm in the desert when his car breaks down. He finds help from a community of East European Catholic nuns who live a simple life tending crops under their Mother Superior.
Drawn to their faith and dedication, the man joins them in their work and considers his own future. The Mother Superior believes his arrival is meant to be, envisioning a church built on the land as a symbol of hope. She convinces him to build it, framing the project as a divine calling.
The story explores faith, redemption, and connection, set against a stark desert landscape that highlights the nuns' unwavering spirituality. It questions destiny and belief.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 11Automania 2000Movie · 1964 · 9mThis animated dark satire skewers America's obsession with cars and consumerism. A gifted but unnamed scientist relentlessly develops new vehicles to fuel public desires for novelty and social standing, ignoring the obvious environmental damage.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.8
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The ConcertMovie · 1967 · 7mWalerian Borowczyk's short film presents what appears to be a concert by the mild-mannered Monsieur Kabal and his sharp-featured, frightening wife. However, this performance is a facade for their repeated efforts to inflict severe physical pain upon one another.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.1 - 13
The Four Days of NaplesMovie · 1962 · 120m · Drama, WarFour people journey into the Alaskan wilderness pursuing self-sufficiency and their dreams. A single mother wants a different life for her son, a captain seeks a peaceful home with a stunning view, and a woodsman aims to build his cabin from scratch. Facing harsh weather, scarce supplies, and isolation, they struggle with the land's challenges. They test their strength and emotional resolve as they work toward building their homesteads. The story explores determination, resourcefulness, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 14
A Gathering of EaglesMovie · 1963 · 115mA B-52 pilot must get his crew ready for a difficult inspection.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.7 - 15
Sundays and CybeleMovie · 1962 · 110m · DramaThis is a story about a young orphan girl and a former soldier struggling with the aftermath of the French Indochina War. They develop an unexpected friendship as they both cope with loneliness and emotional pain. The film explores how this unlikely bond helps them navigate their challenges and find strength in each other.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1 - 16
CleopatraMovie · 1963 · 251m · Drama, History, RomanceCleopatra, the clever Egyptian queen, uses both political maneuvering and charm to gain power. She first wins the favor of Julius Caesar, forming an important partnership with Rome. After Caesar's death, she cleverly aligns herself with the powerful and passionate Mark Antony. Together, they fight for control, but their plans are threatened by Caesar’s heir, leading to a difficult conflict that tests their bond and determines the future of Egypt and Rome.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 17The Yanks Are ComingMovie · 1963 · 45m"The Yanks Are Coming" is a 1963 documentary film produced by Marshall Flaum and narrated by Richard Basehart. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature.IMDb 5.0
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The Great EscapeMovie · 1963 · 173m · Adventure, Drama, WarDuring World War II, Allied prisoners known for repeatedly trying to escape are sent to a seemingly inescapable Nazi prison camp. Designed to keep them securely contained, the camp doesn't deter the prisoners. Instead, they carefully plan an incredibly daring escape, demonstrating remarkable resilience and cleverness in their fight for freedom. This true story unfolds during a dark period in history.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 19
8½Movie · 1963 · 139mFilm director Guido Anselmi, at the height of his success, experiences a complete creative block. Doctors advise him to take a break, so he retreats to a lavish resort. However, his entourage – including his producer, staff, actors, wife, mistress, and family – follow, each desperately wanting him to resume work. Isolated from them, Anselmi becomes lost in memories of past relationships and childhood fantasies.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1 - 20
The Link and the ChainMovie · 1963 · 80mA 1963 French documentary film directed by Jacques Ertaud.IMDb 5.8 - 21
The Six-Sided TriangleMovie · 1963 · 29m"The Six-Sided Triangle," a 1963 short film by Christopher Miles, features his sister Sarah Miles alongside Nicol Williamson and Bill Meilen. The story centers on a husband's discovery of his wife with her lover, recounted from six distinct national viewpoints: the United States, England, Japan, Sweden, Italy, and France. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 6.3 - 22
That's MeMovie · 1963 · 15m*That's Me*, a 1963 American short comedy directed by Walker Stuart, is written and stars Alan Arkin and Andrew Duncan. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 7.2 - 23
HudMovie · 1963 · 112m · Drama, WesternHud Bannon is a rebellious young man who lives life without regard for rules. His relationship with his father, Homer, is strained by constant conflict. Hud’s nephew Lon initially looks up to him for his ability to get away with anything, but later becomes disgusted by Hud's lack of morals. In a world where some thrive by taking advantage of others, Hud consistently succeeds, believing the law can be bent to his advantage. This film examines youth, morality, family, and societal expectations through the story of a man’s relentless path.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 24
The GameMovie · 1962 · 13mIn a game between a boy and a girl, they draw characters and try to outdo each other. The girl draws a flower, but the boy draws a car that runs over it. Soon, a drawn lion chases a drawn girl, and the game escalates into something deeply unsettling.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2 - 25
The Red LanternsMovie · 1963 · 132mFive sex workers share lives within a brothel located at Pireas harbor, their fates deeply connected.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.0 - 26
My Financial CareerMovie · 1962 · 7mA man plagued by anxiety recounts his frustrating experience trying to open a basic savings account at a bank.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7 - 27
Mondo CaneMovie · 1962 · 105m · DocumentaryThis documentary journeys around the world, exploring unusual cultural practices that offer new perspectives on human experience. It combines travel stories to capture memorable moments and provide insights into traditions from different communities.
The film features scenes like an insect banquet, where eating insects is a culinary experience outside Western norms. It also examines a South Pacific cargo cult, showing how people recreate past rituals and objects hoping to gain prosperity.
The documentary presents a diverse range of cultures that challenge our assumptions about the world. It highlights human creativity and resilience, showcasing the beauty and complexity of these practices and encouraging viewers to reconsider their own perspectives.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 28
ChagallMovie · 1964 · 25mThis Academy Award-winning documentary short film explores the life of artist Marc Chagall. It was preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2008.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.4 - 29
The Five Cities of JuneMovie · 1963 · 26m"The Five Cities of June" is a 1963 American short documentary film directed by Bruce Herschensohn. Sponsored by the United States Information Agency, the film chronicles events from June 1963 in five cities worldwide. These include the election and coronation of Pope Paul VI in the Vatican; a Soviet rocket launch during the Space Race in the Soviet Union; Communist and South Vietnamese fighting in South Vietnam; the racial integration of the University of Alabama, opposed by Governor George Wallace, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; and President John F. Kennedy's visit to Germany and Rudolph Wilde Platz in Berlin. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 30
The Spirit of AmericaMovie · 1963 · 28m"The Spirit of America" is a 1963 American short documentary film by Algernon G. Walker. It profiles Craig Breedlove's land speed record-breaking vehicles, which he consistently called "The Spirit of America." The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 5.8 - 31
Thirty Million LettersMovie · 1963 · 30mThirty Million Letters, a 1963 short documentary by James Ritchie for British Transport Films, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.8 - 32
To Live AgainMovie · 1963 · 20m"To Live Again" is a 1963 short documentary film produced by Mel London. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short. - 33
A New Kind of LoveMovie · 1963 · 110m · Comedy, Romance"United States of America" is a documentary series exploring the nation through data. It follows diverse individuals whose lives reflect key American statistics about food, energy, and lifestyle. By examining these personal stories, the series reveals both broad trends and unique details that illustrate the complexities of American life. The data is brought to life through the people it affects, offering a thought-provoking look at who we are and how we live as a country.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.2 - 34
The Home-Made CarMovie · 1963 · 27m"The Home-Made Car," a 1963 short film by James Hill, follows a young man who restores an old car and discovers romance. Filmed near Farnborough, Hampshire, it gained a devoted following after being shown repeatedly as a color test broadcast before BBC2's color transmissions began. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.7 - 35
It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad WorldMovie · 1963 · 192m · Action, Adventure, ComedyA group of strangers' lives change when they find a severely injured man after a car accident. Before he dies, he tells them about $350,000 buried in California. Suddenly, they're all tempted by the chance to claim the money.
The film follows these people as they struggle with what's right and wrong while trying to find the treasure. Driven by greed, they must cooperate and compete to locate the hidden fortune. Their chaotic search explores loyalty, friendship, and how wealth can change people as they face challenges in the race for the gold.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 36
The BirdsMovie · 1963 · 120m · Horror, ThrillerA peaceful coastal town is thrown into chaos when thousands of birds suddenly arrive. The film follows the escalating terror as these creatures unleash relentless attacks on the town's residents. Initially appearing harmless, the birds become a deadly force, forcing people to fight for survival.
The town’s fight against the birds becomes a story about human resilience and community strength when faced with disaster. The movie examines survival, solidarity, and the fear that arises when nature is disrupted. Through powerful visuals, it explores the psychological impact of a crisis and the courage needed to overcome it.
The audience experiences the emotional aftermath as the townspeople try to rebuild their lives after the bird attacks. This unsettling story highlights how even the most tranquil places can be vulnerable to unpredictable natural events, and the importance of adapting to survive.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 37
Wives and LoversMovie · 1963 · 104mBill and Bertie Austin, along with their daughter, live in a small apartment. Bill is a writer who suddenly gets good news: his book has been sold for a Broadway adaptation. They celebrate with a new house in Connecticut. However, while Bill works on the play, Bertie develops a friendship with her neighbor Fran and Fran's boyfriend Wylie, who make her question Bill’s relationship with his agent, Lucinda. Jealous, Bertie flirts with Gar Aldrich, an actor cast in the play. When Bill visits Connecticut to talk, he sees Gar and punches him.IMDb 6.0TMDB 4.1 - 38
Captain Newman, M.D.Movie · 1963 · 126mIn 1944, Captain Josiah J. Newman oversees Ward 7, the neuropsychiatric unit, at an Army Air Corps hospital in Arizona. Operating with limited resources, Newman relies on his resourceful staff, particularly Corporal Jake Leibowitz, to provide care. As the military begins to acknowledge psychiatric illness, Newman typically has six weeks to rehabilitate patients before they are transferred. The ward is full of men, including Colonel Norville Bliss, who has detached from his memories; Captain Paul Winston, deeply affected by 13 months spent hiding from the enemy; and Corporal Jim Tompkins, severely traumatized after his plane was shot down. Italian prisoners of war also pass through. Newman and his team understand that their success is vital for the men's return to duty.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 39
Come Blow Your HornMovie · 1963 · 112mA young man chooses to move out of his parents' house and into the apartment of his older brother, who embraces a free-spirited lifestyle typical of the 1960s.IMDb 6.0TMDB 4.8 - 40
The CardinalMovie · 1963 · 175m · Drama, History, WarThis emotionally powerful film follows a young Catholic priest from Boston during a turbulent time in history. Facing growing Nazism and prejudice, he is constantly challenged to confront hate while staying true to his faith, a choice that deeply affects him.
The story shows his unwavering commitment to his beliefs as he climbs the ranks of the Church, eventually becoming a cardinal. This new position brings personal struggles, forcing him to grapple with his inner conflicts.
The film explores themes of faith, perseverance, and resilience in the face of adversity. Against a backdrop of global upheaval, it highlights the power of one person to make a difference. A moving story of courage and conviction, this film resonates with audiences long after viewing.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 41
Toys in the AtticMovie · 1963 · 90mJulian Berniers returns to New Orleans with his new wife, Lily Prine, bringing lavish gifts for his sisters, Carrie and Anna. The sisters hope Julian can ease their financial burdens, and he assures them he's saved money despite his factory failing. However, Julian secretly amassed the savings through a real estate scam and has disappeared with the funds. Carrie, deeply devoted to her brother, becomes consumed by jealousy of Lily. Determined to destroy their marriage, she investigates Julian's past and uncovers the truth about his dealings, going to any lengths to ruin their happiness.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 42
Love with the Proper StrangerMovie · 1963 · 102m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceIn New York City, Angie Rossini, a young sales clerk from a close-knit Italian-American family, begins a passionate but brief romance with Rocky Papasano, a charming jazz musician. Their relationship changes dramatically when Angie discovers she is pregnant. Overwhelmed by the situation and her family's expectations, she searches for Rocky, hoping he will support her choice regarding the pregnancy. This story explores themes of love, responsibility, and self-discovery as Angie deals with complicated relationships and her own internal conflict.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 43
CharadeMovie · 1963 · 113m · Comedy, Mystery, RomanceDuring a ski trip, Regina Lampert meets the charming Peter Joshua and becomes involved in a dangerous situation. Back in Paris, she discovers her husband has been murdered. As Regina and Peter investigate, they learn three men from her husband's wartime past – Tex, Scobie, and Gideon – are hunting them for a fortune stolen during World War II. The film follows Regina and Peter as they navigate love, lies, and peril, trying to outrun their relentless enemies and protect the hidden wealth.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 44
Robert Frost: A Lover's Quarrel with the WorldMovie · 1963 · 51mThis film, completed shortly before the poet's death at 88, explores his life through footage of his speaking events at Amherst and Sarah Lawrence Colleges, combined with analyses of his poetry and scenes from his life in rural Vermont. The film also includes archival footage of him receiving an award from President Kennedy and touring an aircraft carrier. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with UCLA Film & Television Archive in 2006.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 45
Bye Bye BirdieMovie · 1963 · 112m · Comedy, MusicA young musician living in a peaceful countryside faces imminent military draft. Worried about his musical future, he travels to a small, isolated town for one final performance. He finds a community deeply connected to music, which deeply moves him. Connecting with the locals through his music, he forms unexpected bonds that overcome personal challenges and uncertainties. The film balances joyful moments with reminders of life's preciousness and the importance of pursuing dreams despite hardship. Featuring a memorable score and a mix of humor and drama, it explores self-discovery, friendship, and the unifying power of music.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.8 - 46PianissimoMovie · 1963 · 6mThis experimental animated short features a piano playing a melody, with its keys, hammers, and internal components rendered in a variety of colors. The film was preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2007.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.5
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This Sporting LifeMovie · 1963 · 134m · DramaIn 1960s Northern England, this intense drama follows Frank Machin, a tough and determined man striving for a better life. He earns a spot on a professional rugby league team managed by businessman Weaver after his talent is discovered.
Frank's journey through the world of sports presents him with difficult choices that challenge his values and loyalty. The film examines class divisions, ambition, and the complexities of human behavior as Frank pursues success.
A realistic look at working-class life in 1960s England, this compelling drama offers a gripping story that will captivate audiences until the very end.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 48
The L-Shaped RoomMovie · 1962 · 126m · Drama, RomanceJane, a young French woman, becomes unexpectedly pregnant outside of marriage in a society with strict rules. Instead of the expected options of marrying the father or having an abortion, Jane chooses to go to London. She rents a room in a rundown boarding house and befriends a diverse group of people.
In this new community, Jane begins a romantic relationship with another boarder, Toby. As her pregnancy advances, she must decide whether to pursue her relationship or focus on becoming a parent. The film explores personal growth, societal pressures, and the choices people make.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 49
An Occurrence at Owl Creek BridgeMovie · 1961 · 28m · Drama, FantasyDuring the American Civil War, the main character is about to be executed for a supposed act of sabotage. Hanged from a bridge, he falls into the water below and desperately tries to escape his bonds. He must navigate dangerous territory and evade relentless enemies who are determined to recapture him. Forced to confront his own limits, he fights to survive against overwhelming odds in a war-torn America. This is a story about resilience, survival, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of death.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 50
The V.I.P.sMovie · 1963 · 119m · DramaA group of wealthy travelers are stuck in London after a thick fog grounds flights at Heathrow. Forced to spend unplanned time together, they face unexpected personal struggles. Stripped of their usual comforts, the passengers confront their weaknesses, conflicts with each other, and secret desires. Each person is tested as they navigate this layover, revealing hidden sides of themselves beneath their privileged lives. What began as a short stopover becomes a turning point for these travelers, as the fog creates a sense of isolation and forces them to confront who they really are.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 51
The StripperMovie · 1963 · 95mA faded Hollywood actress, now performing in a low-rent touring show, finds her life unexpectedly altered when she gets stuck in a small town. There, she's pursued by a young, overly enthusiastic local boy who is completely smitten with her.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.4 - 52
Papa's Delicate ConditionMovie · 1963 · 98mA cheerful railroad superintendent struggles to regain control of his life as his drinking increasingly strains his relationships with his wife and oldest daughter. His youngest daughter, though, remains devoted, and the two of them experience numerous lighthearted adventures together throughout the film.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.4 - 53
Twilight of HonorMovie · 1963 · 115mA young lawyer takes on the case of a drifter accused of murder, a crime the man has already admitted to. Seeking guidance, the lawyer turns to his mentor – a retired, renowned lawyer – for assistance.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 54
Knife in the WaterMovie · 1962 · 94m · Drama, ThrillerA peaceful lake trip takes a disturbing turn when Andrzej and Krystyna pick up a mysterious young hitchhiker. Andrzej's initial unease grows into harassment as the hitchhiker subtly manipulates Krystyna. The situation intensifies when the hitchhiker falls into the water, throwing the couple into panic and unexpected trouble. This suspenseful drama explores themes of control, trust, and manipulation, revealing a chilling aspect of human behavior.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 55
55 Days at PekingMovie · 1963 · 154m · History, War, DramaDuring the chaotic 1900 Boxer Rebellion, foreign diplomats at the International Compound in Peking face a fierce siege. With little hope of rescue, these people from different countries—representing competing interests—must unite with soldiers and local representatives to defend the compound. Supported discreetly by the Empress of China and her generals, they fight for survival in a desperate attempt to endure. This historical drama examines unity, resilience, and the difficulties of international relations during a pivotal moment in history.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 56
The Sword in the StoneMovie · 1963 · 79m · Animation, Family, FantasyWart, a young boy hoping to become a knight's squire, meets Merlin, a powerful wizard who has lost his memory, while hunting. Merlin intends to teach Wart, believing knowledge can unlock any future. But Wart’s path to understanding is full of funny and surprising events as he explores Merlin’s magical world.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 57
How the West Was WonMovie · 1962 · 164m · WesternThis historical drama follows an ordinary pioneer family as they experience the challenges of the American West's development from the 1830s to the end of the 19th century. The film offers a personal look at their lives during the turbulent years leading up to and during the Civil War. It focuses not just on westward expansion, but also on the intimate stories of love, loss, and resilience of these everyday people. Stunning visuals and careful attention to detail depict both the beauty and hardships of this pioneering time, as the family's hopes are shaped by a rapidly changing nation. Their experiences provide a unique perspective on American history.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
