Defining Films of the Decades - The 50's

Here's Part 3 in my 8-part series, "The Defining Films of the Decades."

Runners Up

Rebel Without a Cause (1955)

With the two previous decades being dominated by the war effort and the Great Depression respectively, the 1950's marked the first time Americans had the time or inclination to acknowledge teenagers and their place in society. Rebel established Dean as the embodiment of America’s youth and the country’s biggest teen idol.

A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)

In this film adaptation of the Tennessee Williams stage play, Marlon Brando’s explosive performance keenly resonated with audiences, as did those of co-stars Vivian Leigh, Kim Hunter and Karl Malden (all of whom won Academy Awards for their roles.)

Some Like it Hot (1959)

With the possible exceptions of James Dean and Elvis, Marilyn Monroe is the most enduring pop culture figure from the 1950's. She gave one her most memorable performances in this wildly popular Billy Wilder comedy.

On the Waterfront (1954)

Brando strikes again. The best actor of his generation in perhaps the finest of the decade’s many gritty, working class dramas.

THE Defining Film of the 1950's:

The Ten Commandments (1956) 

Credit the enduring popularity of this film to its all-star cast (Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Anne Baxter, Edward G. Robinson, Debra Paget, Sir Cedric Hardwicke, etc.) and the sheer scope of this epic’s production. The Ten Commandments was the highest grossing live-action film of the decade and director Cecil B. DeMille’s depiction of the parting of the Red Sea remains one of the most iconic scenes in the history of cinema.

Related Posts:
Defining Films of the Decades - The 60's
Defining Films of the Decades - The 40's
Defining Films of the Decades - The 30's

Remembering James Dean