Top War & Society Films from the 39th Academy Awards Era (52 Movies)
52 titles
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The Gospel According to St. MatthewMovie · 1965 · 137m · DramaThis film presents a thoughtful look at Jesus and his teachings, viewed through the lens of a Catholic Marxist director who highlights the revolutionary ideas within his stories. The story unfolds on the Sea of Galilee as Jesus gathers followers, leading to conflict with authority figures. The film encourages audiences to consider the enduring relevance of Jesus' life and message to today's political and social issues.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 2
Is Paris Burning?Movie · 1966 · 173m · War, Drama, HistoryAs World War II nears its end, German General Dietrich von Choltitz receives a devastating order: destroy Paris if the city falls to the Allies or if he loses control. Troubled by the thought of destroying the city, von Choltitz defies his orders and chooses not to carry them out. This sparks hope among Parisian resistance groups who believe their city will be freed. Von Choltitz then forms an unexpected alliance with Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling and helps a leader in the French resistance plan to expel the Germans and bring freedom back to Paris.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.2 - 3
The Pink BlueprintMovie · 1966 · 7mWhile working on a construction site, the Pink Panther discovers a blueprint for a standard house and swaps it with his own design for a sleek, modern home – complete with pink accents. When the construction worker dismisses the Panther’s plan and proceeds with the original design, the Pink Panther decides to build his pink house on the same site, using the worker's supplies.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 4
The War GameMovie · 1966 · 48m · War, TV MovieThis docudrama examines the grim consequences of a fictional nuclear attack on Britain. Originally commissioned by the BBC, the film was ultimately deemed too intense for television. Premiering in theaters in 1966, its powerful depiction of destruction received widespread acclaim for its realistic portrayal of nuclear war's impact. After being unavailable on British television for nearly two decades, it finally aired in 1985. This thought-provoking film serves as a stark reminder of the potential devastation of nuclear conflict and leaves a lasting emotional impression.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 5
SecondsMovie · 1966 · 107m · Science Fiction, Thriller, HorrorA weary middle-aged banker facing a life crisis discovers an unusual way out. He decides to fake his death and start over with a new identity. This transformation leads him on a complex journey with unforeseen results. While offering a chance at freedom, this new life demands a steep price as he struggles with who he is. The film explores identity, sacrifice, and the lengths people will go for a fresh start.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 6
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?Movie · 1966 · 131m · DramaA history professor and his wife host a dinner for a young, newlywed couple joining the university. The initial pleasantries give way to shared secrets as the evening progresses. The dinner reveals the older couple's hidden struggles with bitterness, dysfunction, and resentment within their marriage. The film examines the complexities of long-term relationships and the powerful effect of unspoken emotions on everyone involved.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 7
The Battle of AlgiersMovie · 1966 · 121m · Drama, War, HistoryThis film explores Algeria's struggle for independence from France through the eyes of Ali. Initially involved in small crimes, Ali joins the Front de Liberation Nationale (FLN), a movement fighting to end French rule. The movie follows his journey from an ordinary thief to an important member of the FLN. His rise is cut short when he is captured by French forces in 1957.
The film depicts the intense conflict between Algerian rebels and French colonizers, highlighting the escalating brutality on both sides. As the war intensifies, tensions rise among the characters, offering a deeply emotional look at this critical period in history. Ali’s story provides a personal perspective on the sacrifices, successes, and difficulties faced by those fighting for freedom during a time of major political upheaval.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 8
ThreeMovie · 1965 · 80mThis episodic World War II drama charts the journey of a Yugoslav man as he experiences the war firsthand, evolving from observer to victim and ultimately to someone who participates in the conflict.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 9
An American DreamMovie · 1966 · 103mStephen Rojack, a celebrated war hero and television star, has a volatile life. Following a heated argument with his wife, Deborah, he pushes her to her death from their apartment. He successfully convinces investigators it was suicide and then resumes a relationship with singer Cherry McMahon. However, her possessive boyfriend, Nicky, a mobster, is deeply suspicious.IMDb 4.8TMDB 4.7 - 10
Grand PrixMovie · 1966 · 176m · Action, DramaIn 1966, the world of Formula One racing brings together the sport's most daring drivers vying for the championship. American driver Pete Aron suffers a setback when his sponsor drops him after a crash. He then joins a Japanese racing team to continue his pursuit of victory. His new career is complicated by a romantic relationship with the wife of a former teammate, mirroring the risks of racing. Adding to the challenge is Jean-Pierre Sarti, a two-time world champion and formidable rival. Driven by passion and determination, the story follows Pete through the thrilling world of racing and its effect on his personal life.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 11
Blow-UpMovie · 1966 · 111m · Drama, Mystery, ThrillerSet against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s London fashion, the film follows a successful photographer whose life centers on pop music, marijuana, and fleeting relationships. Though seemingly living a glamorous life, he's deeply unhappy and feels stuck in a dull routine. His perspective changes when he accidentally photographs a death in the midst of his usual world. The film examines how this unexpected event forces him to confront the harsh realities hidden beneath the surface of his privileged existence, prompting him to question what truly matters.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 12
The Fortune CookieMovie · 1966 · 125m · Comedy, Drama, CrimeA cameraman's life changes when he's injured during a football game. His brother-in-law, a lawyer known for ambulance chasing, files a lawsuit on his behalf, which the cameraman doesn’t appreciate. Things become complicated when the cameraman learns his ex-wife wants to visit him while he recovers. To reconnect with her, he exaggerates his injuries, leading to an emotional journey.
As the story progresses, the cameraman begins to understand the football player who injured him and the pressures of professional sports. This leads to self-reflection and questions the ethics of the lawyers and their clients. The film explores themes of love, deception, and personal growth, examining the intricacies of relationships and ambition.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 13
The Sand PebblesMovie · 1966 · 196m · Drama, WarIn 1926, engineer Jake Holman is on the USS San Pablo, a U.S. naval ship patrolling a volatile area of the Yangtze River in China, a country struggling with exploitation and revolution. Jake's independent approach clashes with the established order of the ship, where Chinese and American crew members share a confined space. As tensions rise, the gunboat is ordered to a risky rescue mission: saving missionaries stranded at China Light Mission, cut off by a dangerous river barrier. Amidst the urgency, Jake must deal with the complicated relationships among the crew while confronting the difficult political and ethical questions of their presence in China.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 14
The Russians Are Coming! The Russians Are Coming!Movie · 1966 · 126m · Comedy, WarDuring the Cold War, a Soviet submarine runs aground on a New England island. The commander assigns Lieutenant Rozanov the critical task of getting them off the sandbar before an international incident occurs. With time running out, Rozanov cautiously seeks help from the island's police chief and a visiting television writer. He must gain their trust to execute a plan: to present the crew as Norwegian sailors. Trapped and under increasing pressure, Lieutenant Rozanov navigates suspicion and skepticism while forging unexpected alliances. The film explores themes of trust, deception, and human connection against a backdrop of global political tension.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 15
Juliet of the SpiritsMovie · 1965 · 148m · Comedy, Drama, FantasyGiulietta, a woman in her middle years, grows increasingly suspicious of her husband Giorgio as his behavior becomes strange. Her doubts deepen when he unexpectedly holds a seance with friends, which unexpectedly allows Giulietta to communicate with spirits and uncover hidden truths about herself and her past. Initially doubtful, she consults a mystic who reveals the true nature of Giorgio's character, leading Giulietta to face the painful truth of his betrayal. The film is a suspenseful exploration of self-discovery and emotional turmoil as Giulietta struggles to find the truth.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 16
Helicopter CanadaMovie · 1966 · 50mCaptured from a helicopter in 1966, this film offers a stunning, comprehensive aerial portrait of Canada's ten provinces. The breathtaking views, including Niagara Falls, present a fresh perspective on the country. A celebration of Canadian heritage, this panoramic film was created for international release to commemorate the Canadian centennial.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 17
The Face of GeniusMovie · 1966 · 51m"The Face of a Genius" is a 1966 American documentary film about Eugene O’Neill, produced for WBZ-TV Boston by Alfred R. Kelman. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature, a first for a film initially made for television. - 18The Forbidden VolcanoMovie · 1966 · 80mThe film follows an expedition to the crater of the Niragongo volcano in Zaire, part of the Virunga chain. The volcano is notorious for violent eruptions and extensive lava flows.IMDb 7.3
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The Really Big FamilyMovie · 1966 · 51m"The Really Big Family" is a 1966 American documentary film directed by Alexander Grasshoff. It chronicles the lives of the Dukes family of Seattle, who raised an extraordinary number of 18 children. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature.IMDb 7.9TMDB 4.0 - 20
PharaohMovie · 1966 · 151m · History, DramaYoung Pharaoh Ramses XIII challenges the established order as he fights for control of Egypt. He clashes with the powerful clergy, who tightly control the country's government and riches. Though inexperienced, Ramses must navigate a dangerous world of political maneuvering and deceit to secure his rule against those determined to overthrow him. The film explores ambition, corruption, and the struggle between tradition and progress amidst a turbulent mix of politics and religion.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 21
The Shop on Main StreetMovie · 1965 · 128m · Drama, WarDuring World War II in Nazi-occupied Slovakia, Tono, an ordinary carpenter, becomes an "Aryan comptroller" for a button store owned by Rozalie, a Jewish widow. This gives him financial security and a position within the town's corrupt system. He develops an unexpected friendship with Rozalie amidst the war.
Their bond is tested when the authorities order the roundup of all Jews. Tono is forced to confront a moral crisis: remain silent to protect himself or defy the injustice he witnesses. The story explores the complexities of loyalty, friendship, and courage in the face of extraordinary circumstances.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.1 - 22
Mister BuddwingMovie · 1966 · 100mA man with no memory drifts through the streets of New York City, desperately searching for clues to his identity.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9 - 23
The Singing NunMovie · 1966 · 97mSister Ann, a Belgian nun, is assigned to a new convent where she works with troubled individuals like Nichole and Dominic. Father Clementi discovers her beautiful singing voice and encourages her to enter a talent contest. Sister Ann unexpectedly gains a record deal and widespread popularity with her cheerful songs, even appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show. She's overwhelmed by the sudden fame and experiences unexpected complications, including developing feelings for a former friend.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8 - 24
Stop the World: I Want to Get OffMovie · 1966 · 100mThis film adaptation of the popular London and Broadway musical *Stop the World, I Want to Get Off* takes a literal approach to the story. Anthony Newley stars as Littlechap, whose journey to fame is complicated by personal turmoil. The film mirrors the stage production's impressionistic style, featuring Newley in mime makeup who occasionally breaks character to speak directly to the audience. All of Littlechap’s female relationships – German, American, and English – are portrayed by a single actress, Millicent Martin. Similar to *The Wizard of Oz*, the musical performance is filmed in color, while a brief prologue showing the actors preparing is in black-and-white. The film features well-known songs like "What Kind of Fool Am I?" and "Gonna Build a Mountain."IMDb 5.1TMDB 4.3 - 25
The Naked PreyMovie · 1965 · 96m · Adventure, ThrillerA group of adventurers on a dangerous safari encounter a local tribe, and cultural misunderstandings escalate when one member refuses a customary gift exchange. This sparks the tribe's anger and a series of deadly events, leaving only one safari member alive.
Now facing overwhelming odds, the survivor must confront the tribal warriors in a desperate fight for survival – a test that could mean salvation or a horrifying end. This drama explores cultural clashes and the lengths people will go to survive, set against the backdrop of an African safari.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.6 - 26
Wild WingsMovie · 1965 · 34mThis film explores the Slimbridge Wild Fowl Trust in Gloucestershire, England – home to the world's largest population of live wild birds.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 27
Turkey: The BridgeMovie · 1965 · 19mThis travelogue chronicles the history of Turkey from 200 BC to the present day. It covers the Greek and Roman invasions, the emergence of the world's first seven religions, the Crusades, the founding of the Turkish State, and the development of modern tourism. The film received an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 28
The Winning StrainMovie · 1966 · 20mThis 1966 documentary captures athletes competing in events at the National Amateur Athletic Union track carnival in New York. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film. - 29
Loves of a BlondeMovie · 1965 · 81m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceAndula, a naive young woman from a small Czech factory town, dreams of love and a life beyond her limited world. She meets Milda, a charming but mysterious musician visiting from Prague, and believes she's finally found the connection she craves. But Milda treats their encounter as a casual affair and leaves without a second thought.
Andula refuses to let go of her feelings and journeys to Prague to find him. Her determined search challenges social expectations and tests the limits of love, trust, and the unpredictable nature of emotions. Andula's arrival creates unexpected reactions from Milda and his family, as the story examines self-discovery, the search for happiness, and how our choices affect those around us.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 30
The Bible: In the Beginning...Movie · 1966 · 175m · Adventure, History, DramaThis film adaptation explores the first 22 chapters of the Book of Genesis through connected stories. It depicts Adam and Eve’s life in the Garden of Eden, their fall from grace, and subsequent exile. The film then portrays Cain murdering his brother Abel. Next, it follows Noah building an ark to save animals from a great flood. Finally, it shows Abraham forming a covenant with God, beginning a relationship marked by both challenges and revelations. The adaptation highlights humanity’s capacity for both great good and great evil.IMDb 6.2TMDB 7.3 - 31
The DragMovie · 1966 · 9mThis comedy explores the challenges of overcoming addiction, following a chain smoker's often humorous struggles to quit.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 32
A Year Towards TomorrowMovie · 1966 · 25mThis documentary chronicles the VISTA program, Volunteers in Service to America.
The film explores the VISTA program.
The documentary details the VISTA program.
This film is about the VISTA program.
The movie follows the VISTA program.
A documentary examines the VISTA program.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.7 - 33
Return of the SevenMovie · 1966 · 95m · WesternYears after The Magnificent Seven brought peace to a troubled town, Chico remains one of their few remaining protectors. When a dangerous group kidnaps many of the townspeople, including most of the men, his wife seeks out Chris, the leader of The Seven, for help. Reuniting with Chris, they begin assembling a new team of seven gunslingers. Together, Chris and Vin rally their new crew to confront the kidnappers and save Chico's town from further danger.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.1 - 34
AdolescenceMovie · 1966 · 22m*Adolescence* is a 1966 French short documentary film by Marin Karmitz. It focuses on teenage students of a renowned ballet instructor and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.0 - 35
Georgy GirlMovie · 1966 · 99mA down-to-earth but lively young woman tries to avoid unwanted advances from her father's older boss while also trying to impress her fashionable and demanding roommate, Meredith.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2 - 36
CowboyMovie · 1966 · 17m"Cowboy," a 1966 American short documentary directed by Michael Ahnemann and produced with Gary Schlosser, follows a man who embodies the life of a contemporary cowboy on a ranch in Tehachapi, California. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 6.5 - 37
HawaiiMovie · 1966 · 189m · Drama, Adventure, RomanceSet in 19th-century Hawaii, the film follows Abner Hale and his wife Jerusha Bromley as they travel to the islands for a missionary undertaking. Their strict beliefs clash with the vibrant Hawaiian culture. During their time there, they face difficult choices as they struggle with differing worldviews, leading to painful outcomes that reveal the difficulties of imposing one culture on another.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 38
The Odds AgainstMovie · 1966 · 23mThis short film offers a stark and intimate look at the urgent need for significant changes to how we treat people in the justice system.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.5 - 39
A Man and a WomanMovie · 1966 · 102m · Drama, RomanceTwo widows meet unexpectedly one Sunday evening at their children's boarding school. Sharing the pain of loss, they find comfort and understanding in each other. As they open up, they realize their paths have crossed for a reason, and that their shared strength can help them heal and find new purpose. This story is about healing, friendship, and navigating life's uncertainties.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 40
Saint Matthew PassionMovie · 1966 · 40mThis Oscar-nominated documentary short film is from Hungary and was released in 1966.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.0 - 41
The OscarMovie · 1966 · 119mA cynical, unscrupulous man unexpectedly finds himself launching an acting career, propelling him toward Hollywood fame. However, those he discarded along the way remember his actions, especially when he's nominated for an Oscar, and launch a ruthless campaign to discredit him.IMDb 5.3TMDB 4.8 - 42
The MandrakeMovie · 1965 · 97mA young man devises a scheme to have a sexual relationship with a woman who is married, but unable to conceive. Adapted from a play by Machiavelli.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 43
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the ForumMovie · 1966 · 97m · Music, Comedy, RomanceA clever slave finds a path to freedom by maneuvering the relationships between a virgin courtesan, her owner, and his devoted servant. Using his intelligence and understanding of people, he orchestrates events to gain his liberty and reveal the power imbalances of a society based on slavery. He carefully plays on the emotions of the courtesan and the master, drawing the audience into a story about connections that defy social status and the chance for redemption in a harsh world.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 44
A Man for All SeasonsMovie · 1966 · 120m · Drama, HistoryThis historical drama explores the difficult relationship between King Henry VIII and his advisor, Sir Thomas More. More, a devout Catholic and family man, is forced to choose between loyalty to the crown and his faith when he's required to swear an oath recognizing Henry as the head of the Church of England. This new law clashes directly with More's beliefs. The film examines themes of loyalty, conviction, and the conflict between personal principles and political power during the turbulent 16th-century English court.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 45
You're a Big Boy NowMovie · 1966 · 97m · Comedy, RomanceA young person moves to New York City and experiences a journey of self-discovery and love. Coming from a small town, they navigate the challenges of city life and relationships. Drawn to a captivating woman, they experience disappointment. Then, they find comfort and loyalty in a kind local woman. This connection helps them understand genuine affection, friendship, and ultimately discover their own way to love.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1 - 46
Morgan: A Suitable Case for TreatmentMovie · 1966 · 97m · ComedyMorgan is a dreamer, lost in his own imaginative worlds and struggling to connect with reality. His fantasies frequently bleed into his everyday life, causing problems with his wife Leonie and society. As his impulses clash with expectations, Morgan faces marital turmoil, police attention, and ultimately, confinement in an asylum. His story explores the complexities of love, loss, and mental illness, examining the difficult boundary between extraordinary creativity and madness.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 47
GambitMovie · 1966 · 109m · Comedy, CrimeIn a world of wealth, career thief Harry Dean targets his most difficult heist yet: stealing a priceless artwork from the heavily guarded vaults of billionaire Mr. Shahbandar. He partners with the captivating showgirl Nicole Chang, and together they meticulously plan a flawless operation. But as they try to carry out their intricate scheme, things quickly become more complicated than Harry expected.
The story follows the breakdown of Harry's carefully crafted plan, revealing unexpected twists and shocking truths. The heist exposes a complex network of motives, loyalties, and lies, offering a compelling look at human nature in the world of high-stakes crime. As their plans fall apart, Harry Dean and Nicole Chang must navigate a maze of problems to complete the seemingly impossible theft and escape without consequences.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 48
AlfieMovie · 1966 · 114m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThe story follows a young man living a carefree life with casual relationships, avoiding serious consequences. His easygoing existence is disrupted by a series of setbacks that force him to examine his choices. He begins an introspective journey, confronting the impact of his past and seeking a more meaningful future. It's a story about self-discovery, trying to make amends, and finding one's purpose. As he faces challenges, he learns about love, responsibility, and setting goals. His transformation invites viewers to consider their own lives and what truly matters.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 49
The ProfessionalsMovie · 1966 · 117m · Western, Adventure, ActionA confident Texan businessman is forced into the dangerous world of Mexican outlaws when his wife is targeted. He must team up with four brave adventurers for a perilous mission into Mexico. Their journey is filled with unpredictable encounters, betrayals, and a relentless chase through a landscape of danger. Tested to their limits, the adventurers struggle to stay true to their principles in this story of loyalty and sacrifice.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 50
Fantastic VoyageMovie · 1966 · 100m · Science Fiction, AdventureA team of specialists undertakes a dangerous rescue mission to save a prominent scientist who has been murdered. Using advanced technology, they shrink their submarine and crew to microscopic size, transforming them into living medical tools. Navigating the treacherous environment of human blood vessels, the team must use their skills and agility to survive the challenges within the scientist's body. This film presents a fresh look at the struggle between life and death, examining themes of science, survival, and human resilience in extreme circumstances.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 51
Born FreeMovie · 1966 · 95m · Adventure, Family, DramaIn the Kenyan wilderness, George and Joy Adamson dedicate themselves to raising three lion cubs orphaned by poachers. When two of the cubs are moved to a Dutch zoo, the smallest, Elsa, remains with the couple. But when Elsa is wrongly blamed for an elephant stampede, conflict arises with their supervisor, John Kendall.
George must then decide whether to prepare Elsa for life in the wild or confine her to captivity. This difficult decision explores the complexities of wildlife conservation and human safety. Through their efforts, the Adamsons reveal the intelligence of animals and the powerful bond between humans and nature.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 52
A Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass Double FeatureMovie · 1966 · 5mThis animated film is a pioneering example of the modern music video, created to accompany two popular songs by Herb Alpert and his Latin-influenced brass band: "Spanish Flea" and "Tijuana Taxi." It was preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2003.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.7
