The year of 1966 produced a diverse array of films that explored deeply personal human experiences, historical events, and avant-garde storytelling. During the 1960s, the landscape of cinema was constantly evolving, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling to create immersive and thought-provoking narratives. From detailed character studies to sweeping epics, directors from various backgrounds and cultures brought forward their own unique visions to the big screen. This year showcased the transformative power of film as both an art form and a reflection of the society of the time. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of 1966.
10. Au Hasard Balthazar – Robert Bresson
Au Hasard Balthazar unravels the life journey of a stoic and endearing donkey named Balthazar, intertwining his fate with a young girl named Marie, who is struggling with the trials of adolescence. As Balthazar experiences the joys and sorrows of life, his path crosses with various owners, ranging from the kind-hearted to the malevolent, each revealing different aspects of human nature in their interactions with him. Marie, similarly, navigates her way through the complexities of growing up, confronting familial pressures and the awakening of first love, facing her own set of challenges. Their parallel stories reflect the innocence and suffering present in the world, offering a profound commentary on the human condition.
Robert Bresson’s creates a narrative that speaks volumes about compassion and cruelty without overt moralization, presenting a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. The film’s subtle storytelling captures the essence of life’s simplicity and brutality, creating a powerful contrast that resonates deeply with its audience. The performances are understated yet powerful, conveying a wide range of emotions with minimal dialogue. “Au Hasard Balthazar” remains a standout work in cinema, celebrated for its unique perspective and emotional depth, and its ability to connect with viewers on a deeply personal level.
9. Red Angel – Yasuzō Masumura
Red Angel immerses its audience in the Sino-Japanese War, focusing on a dedicated and compassionate nurse, Sakura Nishi, who exhibits commitment and empathy to her patients. Nishi finds herself confronting the harsh realities of war head-on as she tends to the wounded and dying in a field hospital, a place where the line between life and death is hauntingly thin. Her journey is full of encounters with soldiers and officers, each bearing their own scars and stories, revealing the varied human responses to the horrors of war. Through these experiences, Nishi’s ideals and resilience are put to the test, challenging her own understanding of humanity and compassion in the face of relentless suffering.
Masumura’s direction brings an unflinching gaze to the atrocities and human drama of wartime, capturing the raw truths of conflict. The film navigates the complexities of moral ambiguity, challenging viewers to consider the impact of war on the human spirit, and the resilience required to maintain one’s humanity amidst such turmoil. Its stark portrayal of the battlefield and the emotional turmoil of its characters makes “Red Angel” a compelling and thought-provoking piece. The film is noted for its bold narrative and raw portrayal of human endurance and vulnerability, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1966.
8. Seconds – John Frankenheimer
Seconds, directed by John Frankenheimer, follows the story of Arthur Hamilton, a middle-aged banker who, disillusioned with his monotonous and unfulfilling existence, undergoes a mysterious procedure to assume a new identity as an artist named Tony Wilson. In this new life, he discovers an enticing array of freedoms and experiences, but also faces unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas. As Tony Wilson, he navigates through a world that is both liberating and disorienting, constantly questioning the very essence of identity and fulfillment. The film explores the far-reaching consequences of his drastic decision as he grapples with his new reality, unraveling the complexities of self-discovery and transformation.
John Frankenheimer’s direction in “Seconds” is notable for its daring and imaginative use of camera angles and lighting to dramatically enhance the film’s surreal atmosphere. The narrative questions the nature of happiness and the pursuit of second chances in life, telling a tale that resonates with existential undertones. Rock Hudson delivers a standout performance, portraying the complexities of a man caught between two worlds, struggling to reconcile his past with his present. “Seconds” stands out for its thought-provoking storyline and its pioneering cinematic techniques.
7. The Sword of Doom – Kihachi Okamoto
The Sword of Doom, directed by Kihachi Okamoto, centers on Ryunosuke Tsukue, a samurai whose life begins to spiral into chaos due to his ruthless actions and unyielding thirst for victory. His journey is full of intense duels and a growing inner turmoil, reflecting the consequences of his violent path and his relentless pursuit of martial prowess. The film’s narrative portrays various encounters that challenge Ryunosuke’s philosophy and skills, bringing him face-to-face with both formidable adversaries and his own inner demons, portraying a man increasingly haunted by his own deeds. It is a tale of ambition, conflict, and the pursuit of power, masterfully set against the detailed backdrop of feudal Japan.
Kihachi Okamoto’s masterful direction in “The Sword of Doom” seamlessly combines action with a psychological study of its main character, creating a gripping and introspective journey. The film is renowned for its stunning black and white cinematography and its dynamic swordplay sequences, executed with precision and flair. Tatsuya Nakadai’s performance as Ryunosuke is both chilling and captivating, conveying the samurai’s complexity and moral ambiguity. “The Sword of Doom” remains one of the best films of 1966, praised for its intense narrative and its profound exploration of the darker aspects of human nature.
6. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? – Mike Nichols
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, directed by Mike Nichols, explores the turbulent relationship of Martha and George, a middle-aged couple trapped in a web of mutual resentment and unfulfilled dreams. One evening, in an attempt to break the monotony of their existence, they invite a younger couple, Nick and Honey, to their home after a party, and the night evolves into a series of intense confrontations and revelations. The interactions among the four characters reveal deep-seated frustrations, aspirations, and emotional turmoil. The film dissects the complexities of marriage, love, and the human psyche, exposing the raw and often painful undercurrents that lie beneath the surface of their relationships.
This adaptation of Edward Albee’s play is notable for its raw and powerful dialogue, which cuts to the core of the characters’ emotional realities. The film’s stark, almost claustrophobic setting amplifies the emotional intensity and the psychological drama that unfolds, creating a sense of inescapable tension and conflict. Nichols’ directorial debut is acclaimed for its bold, unflinching examination of personal relationships and societal pressures, providing a stark reflection on the human condition. “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” remains a standout film for its groundbreaking approach to storytelling and character development, leaving a lasting impact on both audiences and the craft of filmmaking alike.
5. The Face of Another – Hiroshi Teshigahara
The Face of Another, directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara, tells the compelling story of a man who, tragically disfigured in an industrial accident, receives a lifelike replacement face-mask from a psychiatrist, a gift that promises a return to normalcy. This mask restores his appearance but also leads him to experience a disorienting identity crisis. As he navigates life with his new face, confronting both the familiar and the unknown, he encounters various moral and existential challenges, each encounter forcing him to question the very essence of his being. The film explores themes of identity, loneliness, and the human desire for acceptance and connection.
Teshigahara’s film is a profound exploration of the human condition, poetically blending elements of surrealism with psychological drama, creating a narrative that is both mysterious and deeply moving. The black and white visual style of the film contributes significantly to its haunting and reflective atmosphere, immersing the viewer in a world that blurs the line between reality and illusion. The performance of the lead actor, Tatsuya Nakadai, is both nuanced and impactful, masterfully capturing the protagonist’s inner conflict and his journey through a labyrinth of self-discovery. “The Face of Another” is celebrated for its innovative narrative structure and its philosophical depth, establishing its place as one of the best films of 1966.
4. Persona – Ingmar Bergman
Persona, directed by Ingmar Bergman, is a captivating exploration of human identity and psychology, engaging viewers in a narrative that is as mysterious as it is mesmerizing. The film revolves around a young nurse named Alma and her patient, Elisabet Vogler, a stage actress who has suddenly stopped speaking. Isolated in a beach house, Alma begins to speak for both of them, becoming a conduit for both of their voices, revealing her innermost thoughts and desires. As the story progresses, the lines between the two women’s identities starts to blur, leading to a complex and surreal crossing of their personalities.
Bergman’s “Persona” is celebrated for its experimental style and the masterful performances of its lead actresses, Bibi Andersson and Liv Ullmann, whose chemistry and interplay bring a captivating intensity to the screen. The film’s innovative use of imagery, sound, and narrative structure creates an intense, introspective experience, challenging viewers to confront their own perceptions of reality and identity. Its exploration of the human psyche is both profound and unsettling, making “Persona” one of the most influential films in world cinema, a landmark achievement that continues to inspire and provoke. Bergman’s work here is not only a study of character but also a meditation on the nature of film itself, pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
3. The Battle of Algiers – Gillo Pontecorvo
The Battle of Algiers, directed by Gillo Pontecorvo, is a powerful documentary-style film that chronicles the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule in the late 1950s. The film focuses on the guerrilla tactics of the National Liberation Front (FLN) in the Casbah, the old quarter of Algiers, depicting their strategic operations and the French government’s increasingly harsh response. It portrays both the brutality of the conflict and the moral complexities faced by individuals on both sides, capturing the human dimension of war with an unmatched realism. The narrative is gripping, highlighting the human cost of political and revolutionary struggle, and the relentless pursuit of freedom and dignity.
Pontecorvo’s film is renowned for its realism, achieved through the use of non-professional actors and actual locations in Algiers, lending an authenticity to its depiction of urban conflict. The cinematography and editing give it the immediacy of newsreel footage, adding to its unique atmosphere. “The Battle of Algiers” is both a historical document and a relevant commentary on guerilla warfare and counter-insurgency, themes that continue to resonate in the modern world. The film provides a nuanced perspective on warfare and a pivotal moment in modern history, making it one of the best films of 1966.
2. Andrei Rublev – Andrei Tarkovsky
Andrei Rublev, directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, is a historical drama that follows the life of the titular character, a renowned Russian icon painter. Set in 15th-century Russia, the film depicts various episodes that reflect the challenges, moral dilemmas, and societal changes Rublev faces throughout his life. As he journeys through a period marked by political upheaval and artistic censorship, witnessing the interactions between power, faith, and creativity, Rublev struggles to maintain his faith and artistic integrity, often finding himself at odds with the prevailing powers. The narrative portrays an artist’s deeply personal growth amid a tumultuous era, highlighting his internal and external conflicts.
Tarkovsky’s film is celebrated for its profound exploration of art, faith, and the human condition, exploring the depths of Rublev’s mind and the broader context of his time. The cinematography captures the beauty of medieval Russia, while the narrative structure combines historical events with philosophical depth, offering a reflective and thought-provoking experience. The film’s slow pace and visual storytelling are typical of Tarkovsky’s style, creating a meditative and immersive experience. “Andrei Rublev” is an introspective journey into the soul of an artist and his environment, revealing the universal struggles and triumphs of creative expression.
1. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Sergio Leone
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, directed by Sergio Leone, is an iconic spaghetti Western set during the time of the American Civil War. The film follows three distinct characters: Blondie (The Good), Angel Eyes (The Bad), and Tuco (The Ugly), each a unique embodiment of cunning, ruthlessness, and survival, as they search for a buried cache of gold. Each driven by their own motivations and tactics, ranging from cold calculation to desperate improvisation, their paths cross in a quest filled with betrayal, strategic alliances, and unexpected turns, culminating in a relentless pursuit that tests their wits and wills. The narrative combines tense standoffs with dark humor, creating scenes that are both thrilling and sardonically amusing.
Leone’s film is renowned for its innovative cinematography that captures the vast, desolate landscapes and intense close-ups of the characters, and Ennio Morricone’s legendary score, which adds an unforgettable dimension to the storytelling. The performances of Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach bring a unique charisma to their roles, filling their characters with a blend of toughness, wit, and complexity. “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” is celebrated for its influence on the Western genre, showcasing Leone’s ability to blend spectacle with a deeper exploration of character and morality, ensuring its place as one of the best films of 1966. It remains a timeless classic, revered for its artistic flair and narrative ingenuity, and its enduring impact on cinema and popular culture.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of 1966:
- Au Hasard Balthazar – Robert Bresson
- Red Angel – Yasuzō Masumura
- Seconds – John Frankenheimer
- The Sword of Doom – Kihachi Okamoto
- Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? – Mike Nichols
- The Face of Another – Hiroshi Teshigahara
- Persona – Ingmar Bergman
- The Battle of Algiers – Gillo Pontecorvo
- Andrei Rublev – Andrei Tarkovsky
- The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Sergio Leone
