The feeling of watching a movie together, laughing together and discussing the film with your closest friends is something that cannot be matched – and throwing cinema classics into the mix can elevate the experience.
Here is a list of over 20 classic movies that have stood the test of time, along with the years they were released:
- “Gone with the Wind” (1939) – A sweeping epic set during the American Civil War.
- “Casablanca” (1942) – A romantic drama set in World War II.
- “Citizen Kane” (1941) – A film that explores the life and legacy of a wealthy newspaper magnate.
- “The Godfather” (1972) – A crime drama that delves into the world of the Mafia.
- “12 Angry Men” (1957) – A courtroom drama that explores the deliberations of a jury.
- “Schindler’s List” (1993) – A film that portrays the true story of Oskar Schindler during the Holocaust.
- “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – A drama that follows the friendship of two prisoners.
- “Psycho” (1960) – A psychological thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock.
- “Vertigo” (1958) – Another Hitchcock thriller that explores themes of obsession and identity.
- “The Wizard of Oz” (1939) – A musical fantasy film that has become a cultural icon.
- “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962) – A biographical film about T.E. Lawrence’s World War I experiences.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962) – A film adaptation of the classic novel, exploring racial injustice in the American South.
- “Gone with the Wind” (1939) – A sweeping epic set during the American Civil War.
- “Sunset Boulevard” (1950) – A film noir that explores the dark side of fame and Hollywood.
- “The Sound of Music” (1965) – A musical that tells the story of the von Trapp family during World War II.
- West Side Story” (1961) – A musical that reimagines Romeo and Juliet in 1950s New York.
- “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975) – A drama that explores the lives of patients in a mental institution.
- “Dr. Strangelove” (1964) – A satirical black comedy about the Cold War.
- The Graduate” (1967) – A coming-of-age film that explores the disillusionment of the youth during the 1960s.
- “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) – A Christmas fantasy drama that has become a holiday staple.
- “Rebecca” (1940) – A psychological thriller based on the novel by Daphne du Maurier.
- “Some Like It Hot” (1959) – A comedy that follows two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape the mob.
- “All About Eve” (1950) – A drama that explores the world of theater and the price of fame.
- “On the Waterfront” (1954) – A crime drama that explores corruption and union violence on the docks of Hoboken, New Jersey.
These films are considered classics due to their enduring popularity, critical acclaim, and influence on the film industry and culture at large.
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The best classic movies for a friends’ night in
While you can choose from hundreds of classic films to watch with your friends, these are the best ones to start with – a “best of the best” list.
They are the most classic of the classics and are a fantastic starting point if you and your friends plan to tackle a significant portion of movie history.
Casablanca (1942)
Casablanca is a classic movie that has become a cultural touchstone, telling a story of love, sacrifice and the fight against tyranny.
It is a movie full of memorable scenes that will leave you wanting more. After watching Casablanca, you and your friends won’t be able to stop quoting it!
The Godfather (1972)
The Godfather is a movie that needs no introduction.
It chronicles the story of the Corleone family and their rise to power in the criminal underworld.
The Godfather has influenced countless films over the years, and you’re sure to have a great time recognizing loads of references and actors from back in their heyday.
Gone with the Wind (1939)
Following Scarlett O’Hara and her struggle to survive during the Civil War, Gone With the Wind is a dramatic movie about romance and heartbreak.
It’s a fascinating look back into the country’s history, too, so there’s plenty to discuss afterward.
Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
Singin’ in the Rain is a classic movie full of music, dance,and laughter.
If you and your friends are fans of musicals, then you will want to start with this movie.
The songs are incredibly catchy, and they’re so well-known you might even find yourselves singing along even without having seen the film before!
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Everyone knows about The Wizard of Oz, but relatively few, in comparison, have actually sat through the whole thing.
Once you’ve seen it, you and your friends will recognize where so many different tropes and archetypes have come from in the movie industry, so it’s a good watch if you’re a group of movie buffs.
What makes a movie a classic?
Classic movies are movies that have stood the test of time. They are movies that have captivated audiences for generations and have become cultural touchstones.
They are timeless and have a universal appeal that transcends time and place, so they make great movies to watch no matter who you’re with.
Another important criterion is its impact on the film industry.
A classic film is one that has set the standard for what a great movie should be.
It will have shaped the film industry in some way and become an integral part of the cinematic canon.
Fun movie-related games and activities
Watching movies with friends is a great way to bond, but why not take it to the next level?
Below are some fun movie-related games and activities you can play with your friends.
Movie Trivia
Test your knowledge of classic movies with a game of movie trivia.
These are some of the most popular films ever, so you won’t be hard-pressed to find a set of quiz questions online. See who was paying the most attention!
Movie board games
There are lots of great board games and card games that are geared toward movie buffs. If you’d like to get a little bit more creative than simply playing trivia games, try out one of the following:
The movie misquote game: Iconic quotes are broken up, and players must piece them together to make the funniest combinations.
Movie buff: This game consists of actor, quote, movie and role cards, and you must match them up to get rid of all the cards in your hand.
Why watch classic movies with friends?
Watching classic movies with friends is a great way to rediscover the past.
Classic movies are a great way to experience what life was like in a different era.
They can give you a glimpse into the past and help you appreciate the present. Watching classic movies with friends can also help you learn about history and culture.
You can discuss the themes and messages of the movie and learn something new about the world.
