Must-Watch Films That Shaped the Silver Screen

Casablanca (1942)

Starting you off with a good romance, Casablanca is one classic that stands even up to this day. Casablanca is set during the length of World War II. It talks about a certain Rick, who owns a bar in Morocco and happens to meet up with his long-lost lover named Ilsa. Adding romance and tension makes it an exciting movie.

Gone with the Wind (1939)

Ever heard of Scarlett O'Hara? She is one of cinema's most unforgettable characters, played by Vivien Leigh in this sweeping Civil War epic. This is the story of her stormy romance with dashing Rhett Butler, played by Clark Gable. Full of historic drama, visually stunning, and enough twists to glue you onto your seat, this is a love story but not as you used to read or know!

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Isn't this movie charming? When Dorothy got whisked away to the brilliant Land of Oz, played by Judy Garland, she stumbled upon all kinds of wonderful characters: talking lions, a tin man, and a kind-hearted scarecrow. And who could ever forget that great song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

Citizen Kane (1941)

If you've heard that Citizen Kane is the "best movie ever made," there's a reason for it. By Orson Welles, the film chronicles the life of powerful newspaper magnate Charles Foster Kane-who had big dreams and even bigger regrets. It's mysterious and creative, with some of the most memorable cinematography in movie history. You'll be whispering "Rosebud" until well after the credits have rolled.

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Blake Edwards' comedy with Holly Golightly remains a dorm-room classic and Halloween favorite. It cemented Audrey Hepburn's status as a style icon, capturing her on screen in a gorgeous black cocktail gown, an elegant updo, and her signature black shades-sunnies, of course, along with that indispensable trench coat. Adapted from Truman Capote's novel, this is one of the most fashionable films of the 20th century.

Psycho (1960)

Psycho by Alfred Hitchcock is indeed a classic you should not miss. Marion Crane is trying to escape her troubles, while Norman Bates, owner of this motel, cranks up the creepiness. Let me tell you, this film changed the game for horror, man; it got you clinging on to your seat. For real, though, you might want to watch it with someone, trust me!

Lawrence Arabia (1962)

This movie is really what the word 'epic' means to cinematography! Peter O'Toole stars as T.E. Lawrence, a British officer guiding both through the deserts and the political complexities of World War I. Such a sense of adventure comes with stunning natural beauty and impressive shots. If you like your sweeping stories against beautiful backgrounds, then this is the one you are going to see!

Some Like It Hot (1959)

Who says classic movies need to be boring? In "Some Like It Hot." Two musical performers, played respectively by Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, disguise themselves as women in an attempt to run away from some villains. They join an all-women orchestra fronted by no less than babelicious Marilyn Monroe. It is a film just oozing with comedy, and you will surely fall in love with her! It's that kind of movie: it gives you a boost!

The Godfather (1972)

If you're going all out for a classic mob movie, it's 'The Godfather'. It deeply covers the life of one of the most powerful mafia families around, the Corleones, touching on all that loyalty, revenge, and some pretty shady dealings.

Singin' in the Rain (1952)

A love letter from Hollywood to its past, this musical is filled with catchy tunes and great dance routines. Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O'Connor light up the screen when one gets caught in the music and dancing of transitional silent films to talkies.