1968 was undeniably a standout year in cinema, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visuals like never before. A diverse array of filmmakers from across the world ventured into fresh territories, creating stories that not only entertained but also challenged and inspired audiences. As the world grappled with significant political and cultural shifts, cinema became a mirror, reflecting and often amplifying the voices of the era. This year’s cinematic offerings were as varied as they were impactful, ranging from the haunting psychological thrillers to revolutionary science fiction epics, and from stark depictions of historical events to imaginative explorations of cultural narratives. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of 1968.
10. Hour of the Wolf – Ingmar Bergman
“Hour of the Wolf,” directed by Ingmar Bergman, tells the story of Johan Borg, an artist plagued by deeply disturbing visions and personal demons that seem to relentlessly pursue him. Johan, seeking a haven of peace and a place to rejuvenate his creative spirit, is accompanied by his devoted wife Alma to a remote island. However, instead of finding tranquility, the island’s eerie atmosphere, characterized by its mysterious fog and the behavior of its inhabitants, only serves to amplify his distress. The film masterfully blends the stark reality of Johan’s life with his increasingly nightmarish hallucinations, creating an experience that is both surreal and deeply unsettling for the viewer.
Under Bergman’s direction, “Hour of the Wolf” transforms into a haunting exploration of the human psyche, taking a look into themes of isolation, the nature of artistic struggle, and the thin line between genius and madness. The film’s cinematography is a visual feast, employing an intelligent use of shadows and light to effectively portray the inner turmoil and fragmented psyche of the protagonist. The performances are a highlight, with Max von Sydow’s portrayal of Johan standing out as exceptionally compelling. Overall, “Hour of the Wolf” is celebrated as a masterful representation of psychological horror and a profound insight into the turbulent mind of a tormented artist.
9. Planet of the Apes – Franklin J. Schaffner
“Planet of the Apes,” directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, tells a groundbreaking and imaginative science fiction tale that has left a lasting mark on the genre. The story focuses on the astronaut George Taylor who finds himself in a harrowing situation when he crash-lands on a mysterious planet. This planet is dominated by intelligent apes who have developed their own complex civilization. Here, humans are relegated to the role of inferior, mute creatures, a complete reversal of the roles as known on Earth. Taylor’s struggle to survive in this bewildering and hostile environment, while grappling with the shocking realities of this new world order, forms the core of the narrative.
Schaffner’s film is particularly notable for its groundbreaking makeup and special effects, which were revolutionary at the time. These technical achievements bring the ape characters to life with a remarkable degree of believability and sophistication, allowing audiences to fully immerse themselves in the film’s unique universe. Beyond its visual triumphs, the film confronts themes of human evolution, the nature of civilization, and asks the fundamental question of what it truly means to be human. “Planet of the Apes” is a provocative and thought-provoking reflection on humanity’s place in the grand scheme of the universe, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1968.
8. Profound Desires of the Gods – Shōhei Imamura
“Profound Desires of the Gods,” directed by Shōhei Imamura, transports viewers to a secluded island in Japan, a place where time seems to have stood still and ancient customs and beliefs are deeply ingrained in the fabric of daily life. The film focuses on the Futori family, a group of individuals bound by blood yet entangled in a web of complex, often taboo relationships. They are viewed as outcasts, living on the fringes of the island community. Their story becomes intertwined with that of a modern, forward-thinking engineer, who arrives on the island with the task of preparing for a sugar mill project. This arrival sets the stage for a clash between modernity and the island’s steadfast adherence to its traditional ways.
Imamura’s film is a profound exploration of the tension between tradition and progress, looking at how these often opposing forces shape and redefine the lives of individuals and the communities they inhabit. The director’s distinctive style blends realism with mythical elements. The characters in the film are portrayed with remarkable depth, each embodying the many struggles and moral dilemmas faced in a world where old and new are in constant conflict. “Profound Desires of the Gods” stands as a compelling piece of cinema, inviting viewers to engage in introspection and debate about the complexities of cultural evolution and personal identity in a rapidly changing world.
7. Night of the Living Dead – George A. Romero
George A. Romero’s “Night of the Living Dead” stands as an iconic work in horror cinema, fundamentally redefining the genre by introducing the concept of zombies as voracious, flesh-eating ghouls. The narrative takes place in an ordinary cemetery, a setting that quickly turns nightmarish when Barbara and her brother encounter a bizarre and menacing figure. This harrowing encounter leads Barbara to a secluded farmhouse, which becomes a makeshift fortress for her and a diverse group of survivors. Together, they face the daunting task of fending off a relentless and ever-growing horde of the undead, creating an environment of ceaseless tension and a spine-chilling atmosphere that relentlessly grips the audience.
Romero’s visionary direction fills the film with layers of social commentary, elevating it beyond mere scares. The film’s portrayal of the undead, depicted as an unrelenting and unthinking mass, serves as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of blind conformity and the pervasive fear of the unknown or the ‘other.’ The characters are all portrayed with a sense of gritty realism that adds a further sense of depth. “Night of the Living Dead” endures not just as a cornerstone of horror cinema but also as a profound commentary on societal dynamics, making it one of the best films of 1968.
6. Kuroneko – Kaneto Shindō
In “Kuroneko,” directed by Kaneto Shindō, a haunting narrative unfolds, set against the backdrop of a war-torn medieval Japan steeped in superstition and turmoil. The story revolves around two women, a mother and her daughter-in-law, who experience a brutal attack in the sanctity of their home. Following this harrowing event, they mysteriously re-emerge as vengeful spirits, dwelling in a dark and foreboding forest. In this shadowy realm, they lure unsuspecting samurai, seeking to exact their revenge for the injustices they suffered. The plot takes an even more complex turn when the son and husband of these women is drawn into this eerie and supernatural situation.
Shindō’s film is a masterful blend of elements of horror and Japanese folklore, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful in its visual storytelling. The film’s use of black and white cinematography, enhances the ghostly and otherworldly ambiance that pervades the narrative. “Kuroneko” distinguishes itself as a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of themes such as loss, vengeance, and the enduring, sometimes unbreakable bonds of family. These themes are woven into a narrative told through a uniquely supernatural lens, making the film a standout piece in the world of folk horror cinema.
5. Death by Hanging – Nagisa Ōshima
Nagisa Ōshima’s “Death by Hanging” presents a thought-provoking narrative centered around the complex character of R, a Korean man living in Japan and facing the penalty of death by hanging. The film commences with what is anticipated to be R’s final moment, but the plot takes an unexpected and bewildering turn when he miraculously survives the execution attempt, yet finds himself in a state of amnesia, bereft of any memory of his past or his alleged crimes. This unforeseen development throws the prison officials into a state of desperation, as they are compelled by legal and moral quandaries to restore R’s memory of his crimes in order to justify their actions and proceed with the execution.
Ōshima’s direction in “Death by Hanging” stands out due to its highly unconventional approach, effectively challenging viewers with its sharp satirical tone and profound philosophical undertones. The film navigates complex issues such as ethnic prejudice, national identity, and the ethics surrounding the practice of capital punishment. The performances within the film, particularly by the lead actor, fill the narrative with layers of irony, introspection, and emotional depth. “Death by Hanging” offers a unique and critical perspective on a variety of societal and existential questions, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1968.
4. Rosemary’s Baby – Roman Polanski
“Rosemary’s Baby,” directed by Roman Polanski, is a psychological thriller of immense depth and tension, set in New York City. The film follows the life of Rosemary Woodhouse, a young and vibrant woman who, together with her ambitious husband Guy, moves into a charming yet historically troubled apartment building. As Rosemary navigates her new life and surroundings, her joy at becoming pregnant soon turns to unease and suspicion. She becomes increasingly convinced that her neighbors are members of a sinister cult with malevolent intentions towards her unborn child, a fear that escalates as she delves deeper into the building’s shadowy history and its residents.
In this film, Polanski’s direction is a masterclass in the art of crafting suspense and an ever-mounting sense of uneasiness. The film’s cinematography creates a claustrophobic environment that reflects and amplifies Rosemary’s spiraling mental state, blurring the lines between reality and paranoia. The performances, particularly Mia Farrow’s portrayal of Rosemary, are deeply powerful and compelling, capturing the harrowing ordeal of a woman ensnared in an unfathomable and nightmarish situation. “Rosemary’s Baby” masterfully combines elements of psychological terror with those of the supernatural, resulting in a film that is as haunting as it is thought-provoking.
3. 2001: A Space Odyssey – Stanley Kubrick
Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” stands as a monumental and revolutionary work in the science fiction film genre. It begins with an iconic portrayal of the dawn of man, where a mysterious monolith appears, serving as a catalyst for a significant leap in human evolution. From these primal beginnings, the story then propels forward into the space age, a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. It follows a team of astronauts on a mission to Jupiter, under the guidance of HAL 9000, an eerily human-like artificial intelligence. As their journey progresses, they are confronted with another perplexing monolith floating in the vastness of space, an encounter that leads them into a series of surreal and deeply profound experiences that challenge the very nature of their reality.
In “2001: A Space Odyssey,” Kubrick’s visionary direction redefines the boundaries of the science fiction genre. The film is renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects, which were revolutionary in their portrayal of outer space and futuristic technology. The narrative structure of the film is deliberately sparse in dialogue yet densely packed with symbolic and thematic depth. The cinematic spectacle is further enhanced by the iconic music, which combines with Kubrick’s visual storytelling to create an immersive and deeply thought-provoking cinematic experience. “2001: A Space Odyssey” is a profound philosophical exploration of humanity’s place within the universe, solidifying its place as one of the best films of 1968
2. Once Upon a Time in the West – Sergio Leone
In “Once Upon a Time in the West,” directed by Sergio Leone, the rugged landscapes of the American West are not just a backdrop but a vital character in this tale of revenge, rivalry, and the harsh realities of frontier life. The narrative commences with the entrance of a harmonica-playing stranger whose fate becomes intertwined with that of a notorious outlaw and a recently widowed woman. Their lives collide over a fiercely contested battle for a piece of land of immense value, setting off a web of betrayal, vengeance, and moral ambiguity. Leone’s film brings together these characters’ stories, each strand building tension and complexity, culminating in an inevitable showdown.
Leone’s direction in “Once Upon a Time in the West” takes the Western genre to unparalleled heights, with his distinctive style and storytelling abilities. The film has gained renown for its carefully crafted long, tension-filled scenes, and sparing use of dialogue, allowing the visual narrative to take center stage. These elements are complemented by Ennio Morricone’s iconic and atmospheric score, which has become synonymous with the film’s enduring legacy. “Once Upon a Time in the West” stands as masterpiece of the Western genre, blending a powerful narrative with striking visual storytelling and a memorable musical score.
1. The Great Silence – Sergio Corbucci
“The Great Silence,” directed by Sergio Corbucci, immerses viewers in an unrelentingly brutal vision of the Old West, a narrative that defies the traditional romanticism often associated with this era. Set against the grim backdrop of a harsh winter landscape, the plot focuses on a character known as Silence, a mute gunslinger whose past is marked by tragedy and a burning vendetta against the bounty hunters who wronged him. His story crosses paths with that of a ruthless and merciless bounty hunter named Loco, a man who preys upon outlaws solely for monetary gain. As the icy winds howl across the desolate landscape, the lives of these two men are set on a collision course, leading to an inevitable and tension-filled violent confrontation.
In “The Great Silence,” Corbucci’s direction is noted for its fearless and unflinching portrayal of the darker aspects of life on the Western frontier. The film’s choice to set its narrative against a snowy, almost desolate winter environment is striking, creating a bleak and oppressive atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the typical sun-drenched desert landscapes commonly seen in Western films. The performances in the film are particularly noteworthy, with Klaus Kinski standing out in his portrayal of Loco due to his chilling and menacing presence. “The Great Silence” breaks away from the traditional conventions of the Western genre, offering viewers a more realistic portrayal of life in a lawless land, earning its place as one of the best films of 1968.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of 1968:
- Hour of the Wolf – Ingmar Bergman
- Planet of the Apes – Franklin J. Schaffner
- Profound Desires of the Gods – Shōhei Imamura
- Night of the Living Dead – George A. Romero
- Kuroneko – Kaneto Shindō
- Death by Hanging – Nagisa Ōshima
- Rosemary’s Baby – Roman Polanski
- 2001: A Space Odyssey – Stanley Kubrick
- Once Upon a Time in the West – Sergio Leone
- The Great Silence – Sergio Corbucci
