The year of 1960 stands as a remarkable period in the evolution of cinema, showcasing a diverse range of storytelling and directorial genius. The films of 1960 broke new ground in narrative complexity, visual storytelling, and thematic depth, reflecting a world undergoing significant social and cultural shifts. From the psychological thrills of Alfred Hitchcock to the introspective dramas of Yasujirō Ozu, each film on this list represents a unique aspect of cinematic artistry. These movies not only captured the essence of the era but have also endured as influential masterpieces, continuing to resonate with audiences and filmmakers alike. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of 1960.
10. Eyes Without a Face – Georges Franju
“Eyes Without a Face” centers on the harrowing and emotionally charged journey of Dr. Génessier, a widely acclaimed plastic surgeon, who is driven to disturbing and extreme measures in a desperate attempt to restore his daughter Christiane’s severely disfigured face. Following a life-altering car accident, Christiane is forced to wear a haunting mask, symbolizing her father’s overwhelming guilt for her lost identity. The film unfolds as Dr. Génessier, increasingly consumed by obsession and remorse, abducts young women with the help of his devoted loyal assistant, in the hope of performing an ethically questionable face transplant on his daughter.
Georges Franju masterfully creates a narrative that explores themes of identity, obsession, and the complex moral boundaries of scientific pursuit. The film’s eerie atmosphere is significantly amplified by its carefully composed black-and-white cinematography, creating a haunting visual experience. While Maurice Jarre’s score intensifies the film’s unsettling mood, it is Edith Scob’s portrayal of Christiane that truly evokes a deep sense of empathy and tragedy. “Eyes Without a Face” stands as a landmark work in horror cinema, blending psychological depth with gripping and chilling suspense.
9. The Virgin Spring – Ingmar Bergman
“The Virgin Spring”, directed by Ingmar Bergman, tells the story of a devout Christian family in medieval Sweden, whose lives are tragically turned upside down by a brutal act of violence. The film focuses on Töre and Märeta, a deeply religious couple, whose daughter, Karin, is sent to deliver candles to the church. Along her journey, Karin encounters three herdsmen who perpetrate an act of horrific and unspeakable violence, setting the stage for an exploration of faith, vengeance, and morality in a harsh and unforgiving world. This tragic event acts as a catalyst, revealing the fragile nature of human ethics and the devastating impact of loss.
Ingmar Bergman creates a narrative that is both a gripping tale of revenge and a profound examination of spiritual turmoil and human fallibility. The film’s somber visual style, complemented by Sven Nykvist’s cinematography, further enhances the emotional weight of the story. Max von Sydow delivers a powerful performance as Töre, embodying a man torn between his religious beliefs and his primal urge for retribution in the face of unimaginable tragedy. “The Virgin Spring” is a thought-provoking film that challenges the viewer to consider the complexities of justice and forgiveness, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1960.
8. Late Autumn – Yasujirō Ozu
In “Late Autumn,” Yasujirō Ozu presents the heartfelt story of Akiko, a widow, and her daughter Ayako, who navigate the complexities of life in post-war Tokyo. The film opens with a delicate display of familial bonds, as Akiko and Ayako face the powerful societal pressures of remarriage. Three old friends of Akiko’s late husband take it upon themselves to find a suitable husband for Ayako, while she stoically resists, prioritizing her mother’s happiness over her own marital prospects. The narrative beautifully captures the nuances of mother-daughter relationships amidst the changing tides of modern society and their evolving roles.
Ozu’s signature style, marked by static camera positions and a tranquil pacing, exquisitely portrays the subtleties of everyday life and the unspoken emotions of his characters. The film’s color palette, filled with soft hues, seamlessly enhances its contemplative nature. Chishū Ryū’s performance as one of the family friends offers a subtle and reflective contrast to the main narrative, providing an insightful look at the older generation’s perspective on love and duty. “Late Autumn” is a serene and insightful exploration of familial bonds, personal desires, and the inevitable passage of time in a rapidly evolving world.
7. Rocco and His Brothers – Luchino Visconti
“Luchino Visconti’s “Rocco and His Brothers” chronicles the trials and tribulations of the Parondi family, who embark on a life-changing journey from rural southern Italy to the vibrant and challenging industrial city of Milan in search of a better life. The film focuses on the evolving dynamics between the five brothers, particularly Rocco and Simone, as they struggle to adapt to their new environment. Their journey is marked by a series of challenges, as each brother seeks his own path, often leading to deep-rooted conflicts and emotional strife. The city of Milan serves as a character itself, representing the promise and perils of urban life and its impact on the human spirit.
Visconti masterfully blends neorealism with melodrama, creating a powerful and enduring portrayal of family, ambition, and the human condition in a post-war Italian setting. His meticulous attention to detail in depicting the era and the characters’ lives adds depth and authenticity to the story. The film’s narrative is enriched by its exceptional cast, particularly Alain Delon and Renato Salvatori, whose performances capture the essence of their characters’ internal conflicts and aspirations. “Rocco and His Brothers” offerins an unflinching look at the struggle for survival and the bonds of family in a rapidly changing world, solidifying its place as one of the best films of 1960.
6. The Naked Island – Kaneto Shindō
“The Naked Island”, directed by Kaneto Shindō, is a deeply moving and visually arresting portrayal of a family’s struggle for survival on a barren island in the Seto Inland Sea. Almost entirely devoid of dialogue, the film follows a farmer, his wife, and their two young sons as they diligently contend with the harsh realities of their environment. Their daily life is a tireless and unyielding relentless cycle of labor, as they painstakingly carry water from the mainland to sustain their meager crops. The visual storytelling, focusing on their arduous routines, effectively highlights the resilience of the human spirit against the relentless and unyielding backdrop of nature’s indifference.
Shindō’s directorial approach, relying heavily on visual imagery and natural sound, creates an immersive experience that transcends language. The black and white cinematography masterfully captures the stark beauty of the island, effectively contrasting the vastness of the sea with the small details of the family’s daily struggles. The film’s pacing reflects the rhythm of nature, allowing viewers to fully engage with the family’s experiences. “The Naked Island” is a deeply reflective meditation on human endurance, the cycles of life, and the unspoken bonds that tie families together.
5. When a Woman Ascends the Stairs – Mikio Naruse
“When a Woman Ascends the Stairs” is a deeply engaging and thought-provoking drama directed by Mikio Naruse, focusing on the life of Keiko, a bar hostess in Tokyo’s prestigious and demanding Ginza district. The story unveils Keiko’s challenges as she navigates the complexities of her profession, constantly facing moral dilemmas and often harsh and unyielding societal judgments. As a widow, Keiko must carefully balance her personal aspirations with the harsh realities of her work, where she strives for independence and respect amidst the often oppressive constraints of the 1960s. The film captures her internal conflicts as she contemplates her future, torn between traditional values and the lure of a more liberated lifestyle in a rapidly evolving society.
Mikio Naruse’s film is a brilliantly crafted and insightful exploration of the human condition, especially in the context of a woman’s role in a rapidly modernizing society. The narrative is significantly enhanced by Hideko Takamine’s subtle and powerful performance as Keiko, bringing depth and authenticity to the character. The cinematography and the strategic use of light and shadow in the film add a further emotional layer, reflecting Keiko’s inner turmoil. “When a Woman Ascends the Stairs” is a profound reflection on the choices and sacrifices that define our lives, making it one of the best films of 1960.
4. La Dolce Vita – Federico Fellini
In “La Dolce Vita,” Federico Fellini takes the audience on a journey through the life of Marcello Rubini, a charismatic and somewhat disillusioned journalist in Rome. Marcello navigates the vibrant and decadent world of the Italian elite, chronicling his encounters with the rich and famous. Throughout the film, he constantly grapples with his own aspirations, disillusionments, and the fleeting nature of pleasure and fame. The story unfolds over seven episodes, depicting Marcello’s interactions with various characters, including movie stars, intellectuals, and aristocrats, all set against the backdrop of Rome’s alluring and seductive nightlife.
Fellini’s film is a striking visual and thematic exploration of the excesses and moral ambiguities of modern life. Marcello Mastroianni’s portrayal of Marcello Rubini is exceptionally charismatic and reflective, capturing the inner conflict of a man caught between ambition and a search for meaning. The film’s iconic imagery, such as the unforgettable scene at the Trevi Fountain, has become synonymous with Italian cinema. “La Dolce Vita” is not only a portrait of a city and its inhabitants but also a timeless reflection on the human quest for happiness and the complexities of contemporary life in an ever-changing world.
3. Le Trou – Jacques Becker
“Le Trou,” directed by Jacques Becker, is a thrilling drama set in a French prison where four inmates are creatively planning an escape. Their routine is unexpectedly disrupted by the arrival of a young cellmate, Gaspard, as the group debates whether to trust him or not with their carefully crafted plan. The narrative is a detailed and gripping portrayal of their escape efforts, highlighting the ingenuity and desperation of the prisoners as they cunningly tunnel their way to freedom. The film takes a look at the psychological dynamics among the inmates, adding a further layer of complexity to the narrative.
Jacques Becker’s direction brings a sense of realism and urgency to the film, while the performances of the mostly non-professional cast add to the authenticity of the prison environment. The cinematography expertly captures the claustrophobic atmosphere of the cell and the tunnels, emphasizing the high stakes of the escape plan. “Le Trou” stands as a testament to Becker’s exceptional skill in storytelling, focusing on themes of loyalty, survival, and the human will to break free from confinement. It is a deeply moving and powerful depiction of the lengths to which individuals will go to regain their freedom, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1960.
2. Psycho – Alfred Hitchcock
“Psycho,” directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, presents a captivating narrative that starts with Marion Crane, a secretary who recklessly embezzles a large sum of money from her employer. Fleeing her old life, Marion checks into the eerie Bates Motel, where she encounters Norman Bates, the peculiar and reserved proprietor who lives under the shadow of his overbearing and domineering mother. The film takes a dramatic turn when Marion becomes the victim of a brutal crime, leading to an investigation that methodically uncovers dark secrets lurking within the Bates Motel. Hitchcock masterfully creates a sense of suspense and psychological tension that has become synonymous with his style.
Hitchcock’s innovative approach in “Psycho” broke new ground in the thriller genre, particularly with its unconventional narrative structure and the iconic shower scene. The film’s crisp and evocative black-and-white cinematography effectively adds to the ominous and suspenseful atmosphere. Anthony Perkins delivers a striking performance as Norman Bates, expertly portraying the character’s complexity and inner turmoil. “Psycho” is not just a cornerstone of suspense cinema, but a landmark film that has influenced generations of filmmakers and continues to captivate audiences to this day with its masterful storytelling and psychological depth.
1. The Apartment – Billy Wilder
In “The Apartment,” directed by Billy Wilder, the story revolves around C.C. Baxter, an ambitious insurance clerk in New York City. Baxter finds himself caught in a moral dilemma when he reluctantly lends his apartment to company executives for their extramarital affairs in exchange for career advancement. The plot dramatically thickens when Baxter falls for Fran Kubelik, an elevator operator, who is unbeknownst to him, also the mistress of his boss, Mr. Sheldrake. The film explores themes of loneliness, morality, and the quest for personal integrity in the corporate world, set during the dynamic and bustling time of 1960s New York.
Billy Wilder’s direction brilliantly blends elements of comedy, drama, and romance, creating a film that is both humorously engaging and deeply touching. Jack Lemmon’s portrayal of Baxter is endearing and nuanced, effectively capturing the character’s struggles and growth, while Shirley MacLaine’s stellar performance as Fran Kubelik adds a further layer of emotional depth, making her character relatable and sympathetic. “The Apartment” is celebrated not only for its sharp screenplay and outstanding performances but also for its thoughtful commentary on the human condition, making it one of the best films of 1960.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of 1960:
- Eyes Without a Face – Georges Franju
- The Virgin Spring – Ingmar Bergman
- Late Autumn – Yasujirō Ozu
- Rocco and His Brothers – Luchino Visconti
- The Naked Island – Kaneto Shindō
- When a Woman Ascends the Stairs – Mikio Naruse
- La Dolce Vita – Federico Fellini
- Le Trou – Jacques Becker
- Psycho – Alfred Hitchcock
- The Apartment – Billy Wilder
