Discover the most enchanting romantic movies from the groovy 1960s, sorted from the absolute gems to the ones that didn’t quite hit the mark. Prepare to be captivated by a wide range of romantic tales, from heart-wrenching dramas to side-splitting comedies. And that’s not all – this list is sprinkled with the most beloved musicals of all time!
Unforgettable and beloved, The Sound of Music takes center stage as one of the most iconic love stories of the 60s. This musical masterpiece enchanted audiences worldwide, amassing a whopping 10 Academy Award nominations in 1966, and ultimately taking home five prestigious awards, including the coveted Best Picture. Brace yourself for more musical magic with acclaimed gems like West Side Story and Hello, Dolly.
If you’re in the mood for a timeless romantic tale straight from the swinging 60s, look no further than Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Audrey Hepburn’s dazzling performance in this film will sweep you off your feet and leave an indelible mark on your heart. And let’s not forget Stanley Kubrick’s Lolita – a compelling and thought-provoking romantic film that may spark some intense debates.
Now, it’s your turn! Share your favorite romantic movie from the 1960s. Let us know if there’s a hidden gem that we might have missed. And hey, if you’re a true romantic at heart and have seen enough of these love-filled stories, feel free to rearrange the list to your heart’s content!
1. Breakfast at Tiffany’s
In the classic rom-com Breakfast at Tiffany’s, we meet Audrey Hepburn playing the role of Holly Golightly, a young woman living a carefree and intriguing life in the bustling city of New York. Alongside her, George Peppard portrays Paul Varjak, a struggling writer who becomes captivated by Holly’s mysterious allure. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s Manhattan, the film takes us on a journey as their relationship begins to blossom. With unforgettable moments and iconic fashion choices, this movie snagged two Academy Awards and continues to be adored as a cinematic masterpiece. Its allure doesn’t just lie in its romance, but also in its thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and expectations.
Released: 1961
Directed by: Blake Edwards
Actors: Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal
2. The Sound of Music
In the heart of Austria, there’s Maria, a lively postulant at Nonnberg Abbey. She’s given the task of becoming the governess for Captain Von Trapp’s seven children. Von Trapp, a strict widower, runs his household with military-like discipline. But Maria’s vibrant personality and passion for music quickly win over the children, turning their gloomy home into a lively place filled with songs and dances.
The Sound of Music is a captivating musical drama that achieved great acclaim, even winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture in 1965. It tells the story of a family facing tough decisions about their future as political tensions rise in Europe.
Released: 1965
Directed by: Robert Wise
Actors: Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker
3. My Fair Lady
In the classic musical My Fair Lady, we meet Henry Higgins, a snobbish linguistics professor who believes he can turn Eliza Doolittle, a humble flower girl with a cockney accent, into a sophisticated lady who could easily pass as nobility. Together, they embark on a journey that explores the challenges of societal expectations and personal limits. Directed by George Cukor, this 1964 gem took home an impressive eight Academy Awards, including the prestigious Best Picture. It’s a delightful mix of comedy and drama, set against the elegant world of Edwardian London’s upper class.
Released: 1964
Directed by: George Cukor
Actors: Audrey Hepburn, Rex Harrison, Stanley Holloway
4. The Apartment
In the black-and-white classic, The Apartment, we follow the story of C.C. Baxter (played by Jack Lemmon), a humble insurance clerk who finds himself lending his apartment to his superiors for their secret affairs in hopes of advancing in his career. However, things take an unexpected turn when he falls head over heels for Fran Kubelik (played by Shirley MacLaine), an elevator operator who happens to be the mistress of his boss, Jeff D. Sheldrake (played by Fred MacMurray). This 1960s drama-comedy, directed by the talented Billy Wilder, received critical acclaim and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. What makes this film truly remarkable is its skillful blending of romance, humor, and a touch of melancholy, all while delving into themes of ambition and betrayal.
Released: 1960
Directed by: Billy Wilder
Actors: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurray
5. Charade
Regina Lampert, played by Audrey Hepburn, develops a fondness for the charming Peter Joshua, portrayed by Cary Grant, during their ski trip in the French Alps. However, when she returns to Paris, she is devastated to learn that her husband has been killed. As the story unfolds, Regina and Peter find themselves on a mission to track down three of her late husband’s associates from World War II: Tex, Scobie, and Gideon. These individuals are after a large sum of money, totaling a quarter of a million dollars, which the group had stolen during their time behind enemy lines. Throughout their pursuit, Regina grows increasingly puzzled by Peter’s habit of constantly changing his name.
Released: 1963
Directed by: Stanley Donen
Actors: Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, Walter Matthau
6. Funny Girl
Funny Girl, a musical biographical drama, centers around the captivating character of Fanny Brice, played by Barbra Streisand. Fanny is not only a talented comedienne, but also a gifted singer. The story takes us on a journey from Fanny’s humble beginnings to her rise to stardom in the Ziegfeld Follies. However, despite her professional success, Fanny’s personal life is anything but smooth-sailing due to her tumultuous relationship with the charming gambler, Nicky Arnstein, played by Omar Sharif.
This film, which showcases Streisand’s remarkable performance, even earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Its memorable songs and vibrant performances have solidified it as a classic in its genre. But Funny Girl goes beyond the glitz and glamour, delving into deeper themes of love, sacrifice, and the price one pays for fame.
Released: 1968
Directed by: William Wyler
Actors: Barbra Streisand, Omar Sharif, Walter Pidgeon
7. Barefoot in the Park
In this movie that’s based on a play by Neil Simon, we meet the newlyweds Corie (played by Jane Fonda), an adventurous and carefree individual, and Paul Bratter (played by Robert Redford), a lawyer who’s a bit more uptight. They both live in a cozy apartment on the sixth floor in Greenwich Village.
Not long after tying the knot, Corie decides to play matchmaker for her mom, Ethel (played by Mildred Natwick), who’s now living alone. She sets up a date between Ethel and their neighbor Victor (played by Charles Boyer). However, things take a turn for the worse when some inappropriate behavior occurs during a double date, leading to a conflict that puts their marriage on shaky ground. Divorce even becomes a consideration for the young couple.
So, in a nutshell, the film revolves around the dynamic between Corie and Paul as they navigate their newly married life together. With Corie’s free-spirited nature and Paul’s more rigid persona, their differences become apparent. The introduction of a double date gone wrong adds fuel to the fire, creating tension in their relationship and making them question the future of their marriage.
Released: 1967
Directed by: Gene Saks
Actors: Robert Redford, Jane Fonda, Charles Boyer
8. West Side Story
In the heart of New York City, a captivating love story intertwined with intense rivalry takes center stage in West Side Story. The film introduces us to Tony (Richard Beymer) and Maria (Natalie Wood), two lovers whose paths are tragically entangled amidst the ongoing feud between the Jets and Sharks – two teenage street gangs hailing from different ethnic backgrounds. This musical drama, which beautifully adapts Shakespeare’s timeless Romeo and Juliet, showcases the remarkable score composed by Leonard Bernstein. Guided by the talented duo of Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins, the movie triumphantly secured ten Academy Awards, including the coveted Best Picture accolade. Nevertheless, as tensions reach a boiling point, this urban romance is marred by the heart-wrenching consequences that unfold.
Released: 1961
Directed by: Jerome Robbins, Robert Wise
Actors: Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn
9. Doctor Zhivago
Doctor Zhivago, directed by David Lean, is a majestic and powerful film set in the midst of Russia’s turbulent political landscape. It chronicles the story of Yuri Zhivago, a talented physician and poet, who finds himself torn between two women during the chaos of World War I and the Russian Revolution. Omar Sharif delivers a captivating performance as Zhivago, while Geraldine Chaplin and Julie Christie play the compelling roles of Tonya and Lara, the two women who capture his heart.
The film beautifully captures the grandeur of the era, with stunning cinematography and breathtaking scenery. It portrays the resilience of the human spirit amidst times of great upheaval and uncertainty. The story unfolds against a backdrop of sweeping historical events, providing a unique insight into the personal struggles faced by Zhivago and those around him.
Doctor Zhivago was widely recognized for its artistic brilliance, winning five Academy Awards. Its impact on cinema history cannot be overstated, as it has become a true monument in the industry. The film’s ability to transport viewers to a different time and place, coupled with its exploration of complex emotions and relationships, makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Released: 1965
Directed by: David Lean
Actors: Omar Sharif, Julie Christie, Geraldine Chaplin
10. The Parent Trap
The Parent Trap is this adorable story about these twins, Susan and Sharon, who are played by the amazing Hayley Mills. So, these two were actually separated at birth because their parents got divorced. But get this, they randomly bump into each other at summer camp! Can you believe it? And guess what? They realize they’re actually sisters! How crazy is that? Now, these mischievous little rascals come up with this super sneaky plan to switch places and try to get their mom and dad back together. It’s a real heartwarming adventure!
Released: 1961
Directed by: David Swift
Actors: Hayley Mills, Maureen O’Hara, Brian Keith
11. Please Don’t Eat the Daisies
Lawrence Mackay, played by David Niven, is a professor at Columbia University. He leads a contented life with his wife, Kate, portrayed by Doris Day, and their three children. However, things take a turn when Lawrence decides to ditch his teaching career and venture into the world of theater criticism. His sudden fame puts a strain on his relationships, both with his loved ones and his friends. One scathing review manages to upset a close friend, while Kate finds herself growing increasingly jealous as Lawrence spends more and more time wining and dining Broadway stars, including the particularly flirty Deborah Vaughn, played by Janis Paige.
Released: 1960
Directed by: Charles Walters
Actors: Doris Day, David Niven, Janis Paige
