1965 was a year that left a lasting mark on cinematic history, offering a collection of films that not only captured the spirit of their times but also pushed the boundaries of what cinema could achieve. From sweeping historical epics to intimate portrayals of personal struggles, these films delivered stories that were both compelling and innovative. These timeless classics, with their distinctive narratives and breathtaking visuals, continue to inspire filmmakers and enthusiasts to this day. The universal themes and innovative storytelling techniques present in these films ensures their lasting impact on the world of cinema. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of 1965.
10. Chimes at Midnight – Orson Welles
“Chimes at Midnight,” directed by Orson Welles, merges elements from five of Shakespeare’s plays to create a unique and captivating narrative centered around the character of Sir John Falstaff. The story, set in medieval England, follows Falstaff, brilliantly portrayed by Welles himself, as he navigates the often perilous complexities of loyalty and betrayal within the royal court. His deep bond with Prince Hal unfolds against a backdrop of looming war and political unrest, forming the crux of this thought-provoking narrative. This film effortlessly brings together elements of drama and history, showcasing Welles’ exceptional ability to reimagine Shakespeare’s work with a fresh and imaginative perspective.
Welles’ direction brings an unprecedented depth to the character of Falstaff, masterfully transforming him from merely a comedic figure to a person with genuine and deeply explored emotional layers. The film’s cinematography, distinguished by its innovative camera work, perfectly aligns with and enhances the narrative’s intensity. Welles’ mastery in storytelling is displayed in the way he creatively balances the grandeur of Shakespearean language with exceptionally portrayed and universally understandable human emotions. “Chimes at Midnight” stands as a testament to Welles’ enduring impact on cinematic storytelling, ensuring it remains one his most iconic films.
9. Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors – Sergei Parajanov
Sergei Parajanov’s “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors” is a striking and emotionally resonant exploration of love and tragedy. Set in the majestic Carpathian Mountains, this compelling story revolves around the lives of Ivan and Marichka, two lovers whose passionate relationship is continuously challenged by familial conflict and deeply ingrained cultural traditions. The film masterfully paints a detailed portrait of Hutsul culture, incorporating its unique music, rituals, and distinctive costumes into the narrative. Parajanov captures the essence of a timeless love story against the stunning and atmospheric backdrop of the mountainous landscape, creating a visually arresting and emotionally charged setting.
The film is widely celebrated for its bold use of color and innovative cinematic techniques, which Parajanov uses to bring the cultural context to life. Each scene is carefully crafted, with every frame presenting a visual feast, reflecting the director’s artistic vision and his unwavering commitment to authenticity and creative expression. The performances, deeply rooted in the cultural setting, add significant layers of realism to the narrative, enhancing the film’s emotional depth and cultural significance. “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors” is a cultural journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional filmmaking, establishing itself as one of the best films of 1965.
8. The Saragossa Manuscript – Wojciech Jerzy Has
“The Saragossa Manuscript,” directed by Wojciech Jerzy Has, unravels a layered and complex narrative set during the time of the Napoleonic Wars. The film follows the journey of Alfonso van Worden, a Belgian officer, who embarks on a series of increasingly bizarre and surreal adventures as he travels through the mysterious Sierra Morena mountains. Throughout his journey, he encounters a host of enigmatic and otherworldly characters, including ghosts, mysterious princesses, and other supernatural elements that continuously challenge and distort his perception of reality. The story, which is uniquely told through a book discovered in a quaint inn, captivates with its imaginative blend of the mystical and the mundane.
Has’ direction creates a mesmerizing and atmospheric setting that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality, drawing viewers into a world where the extraordinary seems possible. The film’s visual style, characterized by its detailed sets and costumes, immerses viewers in a world that combines both historical accuracy and fantastical elements. The narrative structure, marked by its ingenious use of stories within stories, showcases Has’ skill in creating complex, multifaceted, and deeply engaging tales. “The Saragossa Manuscript” stands out as a truly unique cinematic experience, widely celebrated for its originality, imaginative creativity, and storytelling prowess.
7. Pierrot le Fou – Jean-Luc Godard
Jean-Luc Godard’s “Pierrot le Fou” is a dynamic and unconventional film that follows the story of Ferdinand, an unhappy married man whose life lacks fulfillment, and Marianne, a free-spirited young woman with an enthusiasm for life. As they embark on their journey across France, their path evolves into a chaotic and colorful adventure, marked by a series of unexpected twists and a disregard for conventional norms. Uniquely, the film frequently breaks the fourth wall, as characters often speak directly to the audience, adding a layer of self-awareness and engaging the viewers in a direct dialogue. Their odyssey takes place in the stunning setting of the picturesque French Riviera.
Godard’s signature style is evident in the film’s striking and imaginative use of color, his innovative editing techniques, and a playful narrative structure that effortlessly blends reality with fantasy. He challenges traditional film techniques, creating a sense of spontaneity and unpredictability that keeps the audience constantly engaged. “Pierrot le Fou” is not just a story but a profound commentary on life, art, and cinema, filled with philosophical musings and a wealth of cultural references, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1965. It is a defining work of the French New Wave, effectively showcasing Godard’s extraordinary talent for reinventing and pushing the boundaries of cinematic language.
6. Le Bonheur – Agnès Varda
In “Le Bonheur,” directed by Agnès Varda, the story focuses on François, a dedicated carpenter, who lives what appears to be a serene life with his wife, Thérèse, a loving and gentle soul, and their joyful and playful children. The story undergoes a significant turn when François, in his quest for personal fulfillment, begins an affair with Émilie, believing he can maintain a balance and achieve happiness in both relationships. The film explores themes of love, fidelity, and the pursuit of happiness, presenting these complex emotions with a sensitive and delicate touch. Varda’s narrative is both straightforward and profound, examining the subtleties and moral ambiguities of human relationships.
Varda’s expert use of color and composition in the film is particularly striking, creating a visually stunning experience that beautifully contrasts with the complexity of the story’s emotional undercurrents. The performances are powerful, capturing the deep subtleties of the characters’ internal conflicts and their struggles with emotional honesty and moral choices. Varda challenges viewers to consider the nature of happiness and the potentially far-reaching consequences of our choices in seeking it. “Le Bonheur” is a thought-provoking piece, showcasing Varda’s unique perspective as a filmmaker and her unparalleled ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and relationships.
5. The Sound of Music – Robert Wise
“The Sound of Music,” directed by Robert Wise, is set in the picturesque landscape of Austria on the eve of World War II. It tells the captivating story of Maria, a vibrant and free-spirited young woman who leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to the seven children of a widowed naval officer, Captain von Trapp, a stern and initially distant figure. The film combines Maria’s journey of self-discovery with the blossoming and tender romance between her and the Captain, transforming their relationship into a deep and meaningful connection. The narrative is also enriched by the looming threat of the Nazi annexation of Austria, adding a suspenseful layer of historical significance to the story.
This musical film, while widely renowned for its iconic and unforgettable soundtrack, featuring classic songs that have become synonymous with the film’s enduring legacy, also shines through its powerful performances. Julie Andrews, portraying Maria, delivers a performance that is both captivating and heartfelt, bringing remarkable depth and authenticity to the character. Wise’s direction masterfully balances the musical elements with the narrative, creating an inspiring, joyous, and engaging experience. “The Sound of Music” remains a beloved classic, universally cherished for its heartwarming story, captivating performances, and timeless music, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1965.
4. The Shop on Main Street – Elmar Klos, Ján Kadár
“The Shop on Main Street,” directed by Elmar Klos and Ján Kadár, is set during the time of World War II in a quiet and unassuming small Slovak town. The film follows the life of Tono Brtko, a poor carpenter, who finds himself unexpectedly appointed by his fascist brother-in-law to oversee a button shop. This shop is owned by an elderly Jewish widow, Mrs. Lautmann, who remains blissfully unaware of the ongoing war and the escalating persecution of Jews. As Tono grapples with the moral dilemma of benefiting from the new fascist regime while developing a surprising and complex bond with Mrs. Lautmann, the film sensitively captures the human cost of political and social upheaval.
Klos and Kadár empathetically balance the narrative’s emotional gravity with authentic moments of human connection. The film’s portrayal of Tono’s internal conflict, as he navigates his conscience and his relationship with Mrs. Lautmann, is both subtle and powerful, revealing the depths of his character’s transformation. The cinematography and set design evoke the era’s atmosphere, immersing the audience in the historical context and the everyday life of the town. “The Shop on Main Street” not only tells a compelling and deeply moving story but also serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and complexity of the human spirit in times of adversity.
3. For a Few Dollars More – Sergio Leone
“For a Few Dollars More,” directed by Sergio Leone, is a classic spaghetti Western that follows two bounty hunters, Manco and Colonel Douglas Mortimer. These two distinctly different characters form an uneasy and tension-filled alliance to capture the notorious bandit El Indio and his ruthless gang. Set in the lawless wild west, the film is a gripping tale of revenge and rivalry, as both hunters relentlessly pursue El Indio. Leone’s signature style of extended scenes, dramatic close-up shots, and a suspenseful storyline keeps the audience deeply engaged in the chase. The film explores themes of justice, greed, and the often ambiguous lines between heroes and villains.
Leone’s masterful direction and the unforgettable score by Ennio Morricone significantly contribute to the film’s distinctive style and unmistakable atmosphere. The performances by Clint Eastwood as Manco and Lee Van Cleef as Mortimer add remarkable depth to their characters, transforming them into memorable and complex figures. The cinematography brilliantly captures the vast and rugged landscapes of the West, enhancing the story’s dramatic tension and visual appeal. “For a Few Dollars More” remains a standout work in the Western genre, widely celebrated for its innovative storytelling and stylistic flair, making it one of the best films of 1965.
2. War and Peace – Sergey Bondarchuk
Sergey Bondarchuk’s “War and Peace” is an ambitious and visually stunning adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel, set during the time of the Napoleonic Wars in Russia. The film follows the interconnected lives of several aristocratic families, with a focus on the deeply personal experiences of Pierre Bezukhov, Natasha Rostova, and Prince Andrei Bolkonsky. As these characters navigate through the complexities of love, loss, and war, the story captures the upheaval and transformation of Russian society, reflecting the changing tides of history and human emotion. Bondarchuk’s film is a sprawling narrative that thoughtfully explores the impact of war on both the battlefield and the home front.
Bondarchuk’s direction is notable for its grand scale, with massive battle scenes and elaborately designed set pieces that authentically bring the historical era to life. The film’s visual splendor is matched by its emotional depth, as it delves into the inner lives of its characters with great sensitivity and insight. The performances are exceptionally powerful, effortlessly bringing a human face to the grand historical events depicted, making them relatable and deeply affecting. “War and Peace” is not just a film, but an all-encompassing immersive experience, reflecting the breathtaking grandeur and sweeping complexity of Tolstoy’s masterpiece.
1. Red Beard – Akira Kurosawa
“Red Beard,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, tells the story of Dr. Kyojō Niide, affectionately nicknamed ‘Red Beard,’ and his inexperienced new trainee, Dr. Noboru Yasumoto. Set in a busy and under-resourced 19th-century Japanese clinic for the poor, the film explores the evolving relationship between the naïve and idealistic young Yasumoto and the wise, experienced, and compassionate Red Beard. As Yasumoto confronts the often harsh realities of medical practice and the plights of his patients, he undergoes a significant personal transformation. The film is a deep exploration of empathy, ethics, and the human condition, as seen through the challenging yet rewarding lens of medical practice.
Kurosawa’s masterful storytelling is evident in the film’s thoughtful attention to character development and emotional subtlety. The cinematography, marked by its stark black-and-white contrast, adds a dramatic and timeless quality to the narrative, enhancing its emotional impact and depth. The performances, particularly by Toshirō Mifune as Red Beard, are powerful and deeply moving, bringing to life the complex dynamics between the characters. “Red Beard” stands out as a reflective and deeply humane film, showcasing Kurosawa’s remarkable ability to create complex narratives that explore themes of compassion, moral introspection, and personal growth, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1965.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of 1965:
- Chimes at Midnight – Orson Welles
- Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors – Sergei Parajanov
- The Saragossa Manuscript – Wojciech Jerzy Has
- Pierrot le Fou – Jean-Luc Godard
- Le Bonheur – Agnès Varda
- The Sound of Music – Robert Wise
- The Shop on Main Street – Elmar Klos, Ján Kadár
- For a Few Dollars More – Sergio Leone
- War and Peace – Sergey Bondarchuk
- Red Beard – Akira Kurosawa
