Film Studies Class for High School 1940-1980
Incorporating some old-school flicks into a high school film studies class gives students a cool peek into cinematic history, all sorts of movie genres, and deep themes. Here’s a carefully picked list of classic movies from 1940-1980, with reasons for why they made the cut and some info for the parents. I get that some folks might not consider the early 1980s as classic, but for today’s teens, the ’80s are like what the 1940s were for me when I was growing up. And hey, not every movie has to be shown in full. Sometimes just a scene or two can have the same impact on students without sitting through the whole movie.
Before sharing any of these movies with students, you should always have a discussion with administration and families, especially for films with an R rating. It is important to be upfront and honest with students, families, and admin about your intentions. Additionally, it is important to talk with staff about any of these movies possibly being part of their curriculum. You may be able to consolidate the audience and have single showing times instead of students watching the same version of Mel Gibson’s Hamlet 3 different times in one school year. (Yes, this really happened to me in high school.) Good luck and be creative.
Drama
Citizen Kane (1941)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Suitable for most audiences, though younger viewers may not grasp the complex themes and non-linear narrative.
Reason: Often regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, “Citizen Kane” offers lessons in innovative narrative structure, groundbreaking cinematography, and complex character development. Orson Welles’ use of deep focus, non-linear storytelling, and inventive camera angles set new standards in filmmaking, making it essential for understanding cinematic techniques and storytelling evolution.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Deals with mature themes such as suicide and financial struggles, but presented in a way that’s suitable for most audiences.
Reason: This film is a great example of storytelling with a strong moral message, character arcs, and its impact on American culture as a holiday classic. Frank Capra’s direction and James Stewart’s performance offer insights into the use of film to convey powerful messages about community, sacrifice, and personal value.
On the Waterfront (1954)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG-13 today)
Parental Guidance: Contains themes of violence and corruption; some intense scenes may be disturbing for younger viewers.
Reason: Known for its powerful performances, particularly by Marlon Brando, and its exploration of themes such as corruption, redemption, and the power of individual conscience. Elia Kazan’s direction and the film’s social realism provide a platform to discuss Method acting, moral dilemmas, and the influence of social issues on cinema.
The Godfather (1972)
Rating: R
Parental Guidance: Contains strong violence, language, and mature themes. Suitable for older teens and above; scenes of violence and crime are intense.
Reason: A masterpiece of American cinema, this film offers rich lessons in character development, narrative structure, and the use of lighting and music to enhance mood and tension. Francis Ford Coppola’s direction and the film’s exploration of family, power, and crime provide comprehensive material for studying complex storytelling and character dynamics.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
Rating: R
Parental Guidance: Themes of mental illness and institutional control, with strong language and some violence. Suitable for older teens and above; mature content is present.
Reason: A profound exploration of individuality versus institutional control, featuring powerful performances and strong thematic content on mental health. The film’s adaptation of Ken Kesey’s novel, its character studies, and its critique of societal norms offer valuable lessons in narrative adaptation and social commentary.
War Themed Dramas
Casablanca (1942)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Contains some mild wartime violence and romantic elements; generally suitable for all audiences.
Reason: A quintessential romantic drama that showcases excellent dialogue, strong performances, and themes of sacrifice and duty during World War II. Its memorable lines, iconic scenes, and complex characters provide rich material for discussions on narrative structure, character arcs, and the impact of historical context on film.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Contains scenes of violence and mature themes; suitable for older teens who can handle its epic scope and complex narrative.
Reason: A sweeping epic that offers lessons in cinematography, historical storytelling, and character study. David Lean’s direction, the film’s stunning visuals, and its exploration of T.E. Lawrence’s complex personality make it a critical study in film history.
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Satirical and dark comedic content, some mature themes regarding war and politics; suitable for teens who can appreciate satire.
Reason: Stanley Kubrick’s satirical take on Cold War politics, offering lessons in dark comedy, political satire, and the use of irony. The film’s sharp wit, memorable performances, and bold visual style provide a platform for discussing satire, political commentary, and directorial vision.
Apocalypse Now (1979)
Rating: R
Parental Guidance: Strong violence, language, and disturbing war imagery. Suitable for older teens and above; intense war scenes and psychological themes.
Reason: This film provides an in-depth look at the psychological horrors of war, featuring groundbreaking cinematography and a powerful adaptation of Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness.” Francis Ford Coppola’s direction, the film’s visual and thematic depth, and its commentary on the Vietnam War offer extensive material for analysis of war films and narrative complexity.
Courtroom Drama
12 Angry Men (1957)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Intense discussions and mature themes about justice and prejudice; suitable for teens who can engage with its social and moral questions.
Reason: A compelling study of character and dialogue, this film provides insight into the American judicial system and group dynamics under pressure. Sidney Lumet’s direction and the film’s claustrophobic setting emphasize character development, moral conflicts, and the power of persuasion and dialogue.
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG-13 today)
Parental Guidance: Themes of racial prejudice and injustice; suitable for teens, but discussions about the social issues are recommended.
Reason: An important film for discussions on social justice, race relations, and moral integrity, adapted from Harper Lee’s beloved novel. Gregory Peck’s portrayal of Atticus Finch and the film’s narrative structure provide lessons in adapting literature to film, character ethics, and the impact of historical context.
Thriller/Suspense
Rebecca (1940)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Some mild suspense and psychological themes; suitable for older children and teens who can handle the tension.
Reason: Alfred Hitchcock’s first American film and a masterclass in psychological suspense and gothic atmosphere. It offers lessons in mood creation, character development, and adaptation of literature to film.
Rear Window (1954)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Some suspenseful and intense scenes; suitable for older children and teens who can handle tension and mild thematic elements.
Reason: Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this film is a masterclass in suspense, visual storytelling, and the use of limited space to create tension. The voyeuristic perspective and use of a single location offer lessons in set design, narrative pacing, and the psychological depth of characters.
North by Northwest (1959)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Some mild violence and suspense; suitable for older children and teens who can handle the tension and action.
Reason: Another Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece, this film is essential for understanding the thriller genre, with its intricate plot, memorable set pieces (such as the famous crop duster scene), and innovative use of cinematography. It also offers insights into Cold War-era paranoia and espionage themes, making it a rich study in suspense and visual storytelling.
Psycho (1960)
Rating: R
Parental Guidance: Contains violence, suspense, and mature themes. Suitable for older teens and above; some scenes may be disturbing.
Reason: Another Hitchcock classic, “Psycho” is crucial for understanding the horror genre, innovative editing techniques (like the famous shower scene), and the use of music to build tension. Bernard Herrmann’s score and the film’s psychological complexity offer rich material for studying suspense and horror in cinema.
Western
The Searchers (1956)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Themes of racism and violence; suitable for older children and teens, discussions about historical context recommended.
Reason: Directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, “The Searchers” is a seminal Western that explores complex themes of racism, revenge, and redemption. It is notable for its stunning cinematography and influential storytelling techniques, making it critical for understanding the Western genre and its reflection of American values and history.
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Contains mild violence and themes of justice; suitable for most audiences, but younger viewers may need context on historical themes.
Reason: This John Ford Western, starring James Stewart and John Wayne, delves into themes of law, order, and legend versus reality. Its exploration of myth-making in American history and the Western genre offers rich discussion on narrative structure, character complexity, and historical context.
Science Fiction
Planet of the Apes (1968)
Rating: G
Parental Guidance: Suitable for all audiences, though some scenes may be intense for very young viewers; provides a platform for discussions about societal issues.
Reason: This science fiction classic offers a thought-provoking narrative on themes of society, evolution, and human nature. Known for its innovative makeup and special effects, “Planet of the Apes” also provides a platform to discuss allegories related to the political and social issues of the 1960s, highlighting the use of science fiction to explore contemporary concerns.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Rating: G
Parental Guidance: While rated G, the film’s complex themes and slow pace may be challenging for younger viewers; suitable for teens and older who can engage with its philosophical aspects.
Reason: Kubrick’s visionary science fiction epic is essential for understanding special effects, existential themes, and non-linear storytelling. The film’s groundbreaking visuals, minimal dialogue, and profound themes on human evolution and artificial intelligence provide a deep well of material for cinematic analysis.
Star Wars (1977)
Rating: PG
Parental Guidance: Suitable for most audiences, though some action scenes may be intense for very young children. Generally family-friendly.
Reason: A cultural phenomenon that revolutionized special effects, sound design, and franchise storytelling, influencing countless films that followed. George Lucas’ creation of a detailed universe, innovative use of special effects, and integration of mythological themes provide a rich study in world-building, genre blending, and cinematic innovation.
Alien (1979)
Rating: R
Parental Guidance: Contains strong horror elements, violence, and suspense. Suitable for older teens and above; some scenes may be very frightening.
Reason: A landmark in the sci-fi horror genre, offering lessons in atmospheric tension, innovative creature design, and strong female lead characterization. Ridley Scott’s direction, H.R. Giger’s creature design, and the film’s suspenseful pacing provide a rich study in genre blending, visual effects, and narrative tension.
Musicals
White Christmas (1954)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be G today)
Parental Guidance: Suitable for all audiences; family-friendly musical with themes of camaraderie and holiday cheer.
Reason: This musical classic is a great example of the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals. It offers lessons in choreography, musical composition, and the use of Technicolor. The film also provides historical context regarding post-World War II America and its influence on popular culture, showcasing the integration of music and film in storytelling.
West Side Story (1961)
Rating: Not Rated (would likely be PG today)
Parental Guidance: Contains themes of gang violence and romance; suitable for older children and teens, though discussions about its social themes are recommended.
Reason: A landmark musical that blends dance, music, and drama to explore themes of love, prejudice, and conflict. The film’s choreography, musical composition, and social commentary provide a rich study in the integration of various art forms within cinema.
These films collectively offer a good beginning curriculum that spans various genres, historical contexts, and cinematic innovations, providing high school students with a well-rounded understanding of classic cinema. Even though this is a great list to start with, it does not include many of the great international films of the same time period and focuses on more adult themed stories.
To see other movie and book recommendations and a list of resources, read more here.
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