51 Films from the 1969 Oscars
49 titles
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The Shoes of the FishermanMovie · 1968 · 162m · DramaAmidst rising global tensions and the threat of nuclear war, the Vatican offers a symbol of hope. As the election of a new Pope begins, the world watches. This time, the outcome is more than just religious; it could determine humanity’s future.
The new Pope might be the key to preventing nuclear disaster and fostering peace. While political leaders grapple with their own agendas, the Vatican hopes the new leader will use his moral authority to guide the world toward understanding. The film examines the complex interplay of diplomacy, faith, and power as the world desperately seeks peace through the election of the next Pope.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 2
IsadoraMovie · 1968 · 131m · Drama, History, MusicThis biographical film explores the remarkable life of Isadora Duncan, a key figure who transformed dance in the 1920s. Duncan was famous for her controversial performances, often performed nude or semi-nude, which challenged social expectations with her innovative dances. Her advocacy for Soviet principles also distinguished her from the mainstream. Her unconventional beliefs about love, money, clothing, and living defied the norms of her time. The film provides a fascinating look at this pioneering artist, whose impact remains relevant today.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1 - 3
The Young Girls of RochefortMovie · 1967 · 126m · Romance, Comedy, DramaIn the picturesque French town of Rochefort, sisters Delphine, a lively dance teacher, and Solange, a gifted piano instructor, navigate their lives. Meanwhile, Maxence, a poet and painter, fulfills his military obligation with creative spirit. Simon, who once found love in the town ten years ago, now runs a small music store there.
Each character quietly seeks love, unknowingly close to finding their perfect match. Their lives subtly intertwine, creating a gentle story of connection and desire set against the backdrop of this charming town. Their individual talents and passions foster an atmosphere where love feels within reach, waiting to be embraced. This film is a heartwarming look at human connections and the unexpected paths to finding love.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7 - 4
Stolen KissesMovie · 1968 · 90m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceContinuing the story of François Truffaut's character, Antoine Doinel, this film follows him after he's released from military service. His girlfriend Christine's father helps him find a job as a security guard, but he quickly loses it. He then takes a position assisting a private detective and becomes drawn to the detective's wife, Fabienne. Antoine is faced with a difficult choice: his feelings for the older woman or his relationship with Christine.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 5
Ice Station ZebraMovie · 1968 · 149m · Action, Adventure, ThrillerDuring the Cold War, a Soviet spy satellite, built with stolen Western technology, malfunctions and crashes in the Arctic, near the isolated British research station Ice Station Zebra. The station sends out distress signals before losing contact, triggering a global crisis. Commander James Ferraday (Rock Hudson) and his crew aboard the nuclear submarine Tigerfish are dispatched to reach Ice Station Zebra before the harsh Arctic environment overwhelms it. Racing against time, they navigate dangerous icy waters on a mission that could determine the survival of the stranded researchers.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 6
Why Man CreatesMovie · 1968 · 29mThis 1968 animated documentary offers a critique of the industrial system. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 7
Rachel, RachelMovie · 1968 · 101m · Drama, RomanceRachel, a 35-year-old school teacher, is at a turning point in her life. Living with her mother in her small town, she's comfortable but open to change when a charming man from the city asks her out. This invitation makes Rachel reconsider her life and what she wants. As she explores love and her own identity, she begins to discover hidden aspects of herself. Set against the backdrop of her close-knit community, this story is about personal growth, family, and finding the courage to follow your dreams.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 8
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 - 9
The FoxMovie · 1967 · 110mJill Banford and Ellen March have created a comfortable life on a struggling Canadian farm. The arrival of Paul Grenfell disrupts their peaceful existence, creating conflict between them. The story questions whether Paul is truly the source of their problems, or if his presence has simply brought to the surface a hidden, long-standing attraction between the two women.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 10
The Thomas Crown AffairMovie · 1968 · 102m · Crime, RomanceThomas Crown, a wealthy businessman bored with his life, decides to plan a major heist. He hires a skilled agent to help him pull it off. While navigating the dangerous world of espionage, Crown unexpectedly falls in love with the agent assigned to stop him. Now caught between his feelings and the need to maintain secrecy, Thomas must carefully balance passion and deception as he carries out his daring plan. The film explores the complexities of love and desire within a thrilling crime story.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 11
BullittMovie · 1968 · 113m · Action, Crime, ThrillerIn the dangerous world of organized crime, Police Lieutenant Frank Bullitt is assigned to protect Johnny Ross, the hotheaded brother of mob boss Pete Ross. As Senator Walter Chalmers schemes to bring down Pete using Johnny's testimony, Frank finds himself caught in a network of lies and double-crosses across San Francisco. When deadly assassins appear, Frank chases them through the city’s streets, following a winding trail of clues. The film is a compelling story of loyalty and power, featuring one of cinema's most famous car chases, delivering a relentlessly suspenseful experience.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 12
Pas de DeuxMovie · 1968 · 13m · Music, DramaThis film follows two gifted ballet dancers who share a breathtaking performance that goes beyond typical dance. Surreal visuals enhance every graceful movement, creating a dreamlike experience for the audience. The dancers blend with these ethereal elements to tell a story about unity, vulnerability, and finding something greater than themselves. This visually stunning look at ballet artistry emphasizes the power of dance to express oneself and tell stories.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.5 - 13
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery DayMovie · 1968 · 25m · Family, Animation, MusicWinnie the Pooh and his friends experience a powerful storm that floods their Hundred Acre Wood with high winds and heavy rain. The familiar landscape changes dramatically, and Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and the others must work together to help each other and adapt to the new environment.
The story highlights friendship, resilience, and discovery as the characters face unexpected challenges. It shows how unity and resourcefulness are important when things get tough. With appealing visuals and a positive tone, this story emphasizes community and perseverance, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3 - 14
The Heart Is a Lonely HunterMovie · 1968 · 123m · DramaThis touching drama centers on Singer, a deaf-mute man with a secluded life. His world opens up when he meets Mick, a determined young woman aspiring to be a concert pianist despite her physical challenges. Though initially hesitant, Singer and Mick develop a real bond, with Mick eager to share music and broaden Singer's perspective.
Mick’s hopeful spirit helps Singer forge connections with three other people who each need his help. They see in him a quiet strength and a source of guidance, someone who can inspire positive change. The film explores friendship, the power of human connection, and how music can transform lives, even when facing difficulties.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 15
Oliver!Movie · 1968 · 153m · Drama, FamilyThis musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist tells the story of an orphan who escapes the harsh workhouse. The young and vulnerable Oliver joins a group of boys led by the clever Artful Dodger. Under the guidance of Fagin, they learn to survive as pickpockets in Victorian London. The musical explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and redemption amidst hardship, offering a compelling look at the resilience of the human spirit.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 16
The Girl with a PistolMovie · 1968 · 102m · ComedyA Sicilian woman, betrayed by the man she loved, journeys across continents to seek revenge. Armed with a pistol, she travels to London, determined to reclaim her honor. The film explores themes of vengeance and cultural differences as she navigates a foreign land, driven by a powerful desire for retribution. It's a story about determination, resilience, and the lengths people will go to achieve justice.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 17
Finian's RainbowMovie · 1968 · 145m · Fantasy, Romance, FamilyIn Kentucky, an Irish family arrives with a mysterious golden object possessing a hint of magic. As the father and daughter adjust to their new life, they unintentionally impact the lives of others. A struggling farmer's luck improves thanks to the artifact, while a local African American community faces hardship due to hatred and political corruption. These stories connect to show how unexpected relationships can bring hope and strength when facing difficulties.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 18
The Firemen's BallMovie · 1967 · 73m · ComedyIn a small Czechoslovakian town, the fire department throws a big retirement party for their respected chief. The celebration includes music, dancing, a beauty contest, and a raffle – everyone is excited. But the perfect evening faces a series of problems: accidents at work, lost raffle items, and an unexpected fire that starts right as the party begins. Despite the difficulties, the close-knit community rallies together to overcome these issues and make the chief's retirement truly special. This heartwarming comedy-drama highlights the strength of community, friendship, and the enduring spirit of a small town when faced with unexpected challenges.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 19
The Lion in WinterMovie · 1968 · 134m · Drama, HistoryThis period drama explores the complicated relationship between King Henry II and his queen, set against a backdrop of political maneuvering and royal aspirations. The main conflict develops when the king and queen disagree about who will succeed them. This creates a story about power, loyalty, and sacrifice within the world of royalty. As the situation becomes more urgent, the film focuses on the personal struggles of the characters as they deal with leadership and their lasting impact.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 20
The DoveMovie · 1968 · 15m*De Düva*, a 1968 Oscar-nominated American short film, playfully imitates the works of Swedish director Ingmar Bergman, drawing inspiration from films like *Wild Strawberries* and *The Seventh Seal*. The film closely follows plotlines from several of Bergman's most well-known movies. The dialogue, which sounds like Swedish, is actually a made-up language with a Swedish accent, blending English, German, Latin, and Swedish, and featuring many nouns ending in "ska." It received an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 7.4TMDB 5.7 - 21
Chitty Chitty Bang BangMovie · 1968 · 144m · Family, Adventure, FantasyAn ordinary inventor dedicates his life to creating a revolutionary flying car. When news of his invention spreads internationally, a ruthless dictator seeks to seize it, aiming to use the vehicle to expand his power. The inventor must then undertake a dangerous mission to safeguard his creation and stop it from being exploited. The film examines ambition, international politics, and the struggle for progress.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 22
A Few Notes on Our Food ProblemMovie · 1968 · 35mThis Oscar-nominated short documentary examines the challenge of feeding a rapidly increasing global population. Filmed in Brazil, Uganda, India, and Taiwan, among other locations, the film was directed by James Blue (US National Archives).IMDb 6.0TMDB 7.0 - 23Legendary ChampionsMovie · 1968 · 77mThis documentary explores the lives of heavyweight boxing champions from 1882 to 1929.IMDb 7.5
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For Love of IvyMovie · 1968 · 101mFor years, a white family has relied on their Black maid. When she announces her plans to return to school and leave, the family’s young son believes she needs a distraction. He sets out to find a man to entertain her, someone he’s sure won’t want to marry her, hoping this will derail her plans. However, the man he finds proves less compliant than expected.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8 - 25
2001: A Space OdysseyMovie · 1968 · 149m · Science Fiction, Mystery, AdventureWhen humans discover an enigmatic object hidden beneath the moon's surface, they embark on a quest to determine its origin, enlisting the aid of HAL 9000, the most sophisticated computer available.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 26
Other VoicesMovie · 1970 · 100mOther Voices, a 1970 documentary by David H. Sawyer, profiles Dr. Albert Honig, a highly debated physician, as he showcases his methods for treating patients with conditions like coma, catatonia, schizophrenia, and autism. The film also observes several patients in a rural Pennsylvania setting, documenting their everyday lives and treatment sessions with Dr. Honig. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. - 27
Wild in the StreetsMovie · 1968 · 94m · Comedy, Drama, MusicMusician Max Frost sparks a political movement when he supports a Senate candidate who wants to lower the voting age to 18. Inspired by Max, his fans push for an even greater change: allowing 15-year-olds to vote.
The young activists gain momentum, raising important issues and discovering the impact of political power. But their fight for change becomes dangerous as disagreements between generations turn into extremism, threatening society.
The film examines the complexities of youth activism and its possible outcomes, looking at democracy, responsibility, and the risks of wanting too much. With a compelling story and characters, it offers insight into today's political struggles and explores the human need for change and control.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.8 - 28
Hot MillionsMovie · 1968 · 106mA skilled con artist takes a job at an insurance company with the plan to steal money. His scheme involves manipulating the company's advanced new computer system. He intends to reprogram it for his own fraudulent gain.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 29
Windy DayMovie · 1968 · 9mTwo young girls explore themes of marriage, babies, love, and death through the imaginative creation and performance of plays in their backyard. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with New York Women in Film & Television in 2006.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 30
Journey Into SelfMovie · 1969 · 47mJourney into Self is a 1968 documentary film introduced by Stanley Kramer and produced and directed by Bill McGaw. The film documents a 16-hour group therapy session involving eight people who had never met. Psychologists Carl Rogers and Richard Farson led the session, which included a cashier, a theology student, a teacher, a principal, a housewife, and three businessmen. It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1968.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.4 - 31
War and PeaceMovie · 1967 · 422m · History, Drama, WarThis seven-hour adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's classic novel follows the love story between young Countess Natasha Rostova and Count Pierre Bezukhov, set against the backdrop of Napoleon's 1812 invasion of Russia. The film portrays a deeply human story of love, ambition, and survival during wartime.
Director Vidor balances the romance between Natasha and Pierre with the realities of the invasion, vividly depicting life during that period. The adaptation captures Tolstoy's writing while creating an immersive and emotionally powerful cinematic experience.
The film explores love amidst conflict and complex relationships, bringing to life an unforgettable story of human resilience and the impact of individual choices during times of great upheaval.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.5 - 32
Funny GirlMovie · 1968 · 155m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceSet in 1930s show business, the film follows Fanny Brice, a comedienne who rises from poverty in New York's Jewish neighborhood to stardom on the Ziegfeld Follies stage. The movie blends her personal life with her career successes, showing Fanny's dedication to her work, her determination to achieve her goals, and her complicated relationship with Nick Arnstein, a charismatic gambler. Through a vivid depiction of the lively theater world and a moving look at love, ambition, and strength, the film presents a captivating portrait of an exceptional performer whose story remains relevant today.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 33
The Subject Was RosesMovie · 1968 · 107mAfter World War II, Timmy Cleary returns to his Bronx home and is disheartened to discover his parents' marriage is marked by constant arguments and bitter accusations.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.9 - 34
CharlyMovie · 1968 · 103m · Drama, Romance, Science FictionThis film tells the story of an ordinary person who receives an experimental procedure that dramatically increases his intelligence. Struggling with his new abilities and a world suddenly full of complexities, he begins to question the ethics of his transformation. The movie explores questions of identity, personal freedom, and the impact of scientific progress. It follows the protagonist as he adapts to a changed world and confronts his own values.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5 - 35
Star!Movie · 1968 · 176m · Drama, Music, RomanceThis film chronicles Gertrude Lawrence's rapid ascent to stardom in the theater, exploring the demanding world of show business and the sacrifices required for fame. It reveals the cost of her success as she navigates the spotlight, highlighting how ambition can eclipse personal fulfillment.
The movie offers a look into Gertrude’s life as she questions whether achieving greatness justifies the loss of love, friendships, and happiness. It balances the glamour of showbiz with the loneliness and pain that accompany it. Ultimately, the drama reminds us that sometimes, the rewards of pursuing our goals are not worth the things we leave behind.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.9 - 36
The FixerMovie · 1968 · 132mIn early 20th-century Russia, based on a true story, Yakov Bog, a Jewish peasant, is wrongly imprisoned in Kyiv for the alleged ritual murder of a Christian child. The film details the harsh realities of his life behind bars, as he endures relentless attempts to break him and force a confession. Despite the dehumanizing treatment, Yakov maintains his dignity.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 37
Planet of the ApesMovie · 1968 · 112m · Science Fiction, Adventure, DramaAstronaut Taylor crash lands on an alien planet and finds a world where intelligent apes rule, using humans for cruel experiments and games. To survive, Taylor allies with an empathetic chimpanzee scientist. Their unlikely friendship explores difficult questions about power, control, and what it truly means to be human. This gripping story examines the limits of intelligence and challenges our understanding of humanity itself.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 38
The Boys of Paul StreetMovie · 1969 · 110m · Family, DramaThis coming-of-age film is set in Budapest and follows the quiet rivalry between two groups of young boys who have claimed an abandoned lot as their own. The story shows their non-violent attempts to protect their territory, highlighting their resilience and ingenuity.
The film explores youthful ambition and friendship, depicting the boys’ adventures with a light touch while also prompting reflection. Though there's no physical fighting, tension grows between the groups, allowing viewers to consider themes of rivalry, loyalty, and self-discovery.
As they navigate everyday life, the boys find a sense of belonging and form friendships that transcend their initial allegiances. The film’s moving story and vivid depiction of the city offer a fresh look at growing up in an urban environment with a competitive spirit.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 39
FacesMovie · 1968 · 130m · DramaRichard and Maria, a suburban couple, find their relationship growing stale. When Richard abruptly leaves Maria for a younger woman, they are both forced to confront their desires and anxieties. As Richard adjusts to his new life, Maria begins to discover her own independence while spending time with friends.
Separately, they each struggle with feelings of aging and isolation. The film examines their pursuit of love, excitement, and passion in a world that feels empty. With detailed characters and moving scenes, this American independent film explores the common human feelings of yearning and disconnection.
The film is a compelling exploration of midlife changes and relationship challenges, prompting viewers to consider their own lives and what they truly want in a constantly evolving world.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 40
Romeo and JulietMovie · 1968 · 138m · Drama, RomanceTwo powerful families are locked in a bitter feud. Amidst this conflict, two young people fall in love. Despite their families' hatred, they begin a passionate romance and decide to run away together. But their escape doesn't lead to a happy ending; instead, they face a devastating tragedy that forever changes their love.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 41
The ProducersMovie · 1968 · 89m · ComedyBroadway producer Max Bialystock and his timid accountant Leo Bloom hatch a clever scheme to make a fortune in the unpredictable theater world. They plan to put on a terrible musical about Adolf Hitler, hoping to trick wealthy but gullible seniors into investing far more money than the show actually costs. If the production flops, they'll pocket the investors' money without having to repay it – a seemingly perfect plan. As Max and Leo pursue their risky scheme, they navigate the complexities of the theater, greed, and bad taste, revealing unexpected humor and human stories along the way.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 42
Robert Kennedy RememberedMovie · 1968 · 30mThis moving film honors a man who once aspired to the presidency, creating a powerful moment at the Chicago Democratic National Convention that brought the crowd to its feet, many in tears. Commissioned by the Kennedy family, the film begins with the funeral train to Washington, D.C., and chronicles the triumphs and sorrows of the late Senator's life using compelling newsreel footage, archival stills, and home movies. Produced in just four weeks, two months after his assassination to meet the Convention deadline, "Robert Kennedy Remembered" was a rapid effort by Guggenheim Productions to honor his life and dedication to the Democratic Party. The film is a poignant biography that captures the spirit and commitment Robert Kennedy brought to everything he did, and it won an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short in 1968.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 43PreludeMovie · 1968 · 25m"Prelude," a 1968 short film by John Astin, tells the story of a man who encounters the woman of his dreams. After failing to win her affection, he comes to value his own life. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.IMDb 8.6
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The House That Jack BuiltMovie · 1967 · 8mThis animated comedy follows a man who builds his dream home in the most affordable suburb he can find. It features a picture-perfect wife, a picture window, and a beautiful garden. But he desires something more, and his wish is granted in an unexpected way – a lesson for everyone.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 45
The Magic Pear TreeMovie · 1968 · 10mThe renowned lover Jean Navarro arrives at the marquis's castle, where the marquis lives with his young wife, Chantelle. During lunch, the marquis falls asleep, and Chantelle takes Jean on a tour of the gardens, showing him the roses, stables, and summer house before confessing her love for him. Jean asks her to retrieve three items as proof: the tail feathers of her husband's favorite bird, the marquis's whiskers, and one of his teeth.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1 - 46
The House That Ananda BuiltMovie · 1968 · 20mSet in the village of Nadpur in India's Mayurbhanj District, the film follows a typical Oriya family as they pursue their livelihoods. The story centers on Ananda, a successful businessman in Nagpur, and explores his life, his children, and his convictions over a period spanning from before India's independence to twenty years after. "The House That Ananda Built," directed by Fali Bilimoria and nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short in 1968, chronicles this journey.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.7 - 47
The Revolving DoorMovie · 1969 · 40m"The Revolving Door," a 1968 American short documentary by Lee R. Bobker, examines the U.S. judicial system. The film details the cases handled in lower courts, focusing on typical minor offenders and highlighting the insufficient conditions in jail facilities. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 48
A Space to GrowMovie · 1968 · 32m"A Space to Grow" is a 1968 American short documentary film produced by Thomas P. Kelly Jr. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short. The film focuses on Upward Bound programs in Chicago, with Henry Fonda as the narrator.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8 - 49
A Way Out of the WildernessMovie · 1968 · 30m"A Way Out of the Wilderness," a 1968 American short documentary by Dan E. Weisburd, details the efforts of the Plymouth State Home and Training School in Northville, Michigan. The film illustrates the school's programs designed to help children with intellectual disabilities transition from isolation into everyday life. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.7
