Top Documentaries of 1968
A Year of Cultural and Political Upheaval on Film
The year 1968 was a pivotal moment in American history, marked by social upheaval, political turmoil, and cultural shifts. This transformative period provided fertile ground for documentary filmmakers to capture the essence of the times through their lenses. Documentaries from 1968 offer viewers a unique window into the events, people, and ideas that shaped that tumultuous year.
These films cover a wide range of subjects, from the civil rights movement to the Vietnam War, and from counterculture to space exploration. By examining the top documentaries of 1968, we gain valuable insights into the issues that dominated public discourse and the artistic approaches used to document them. The best of these films continue to resonate with audiences today, providing historical context and perspective on an era that profoundly influenced modern society.
1) The Wild Wild West Revisited (1979)
The Wild Wild West Revisited was a made-for-television movie that brought back the beloved characters from the original 1960s series. Robert Conrad and Ross Martin reprised their roles as James West and Artemus Gordon, respectively.
Set years after the events of the TV show, the film follows the former Secret Service agents as they come out of retirement. They're tasked with investigating a plot to replace world leaders with lookalikes.
The movie retained the signature blend of Western and spy genres that made the original series popular. It featured gadgets, disguises, and action sequences reminiscent of the show's heyday.
Directed by Burt Kennedy, the film aimed to recapture the charm and excitement of the series for fans. It served as a nostalgic reunion for viewers who had followed West and Gordon's adventures in the 1960s.
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2) Journey to Jerusalem (1968)
"Journey to Jerusalem" documents a historic concert on Mount Scopus in Israel, just three weeks after the Six Day War. Directed by David Maysles, the film captures a powerful musical performance in a politically charged setting.
Leonard Bernstein and Isaac Stern headline the event, joining forces with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and the Tel Aviv Philharmonic Choir. The concert features stirring classical renditions of works by Mahler and Mendelssohn.
The documentary intercuts footage of the performance with scenes of refugees, wounded individuals, and glimpses of old Jerusalem. This juxtaposition highlights the complex realities of the region at that time.
Bernstein reflects on a previous concert he conducted on Mount Scopus 19 years earlier, celebrating the birth of Israel. This return performance symbolizes resilience and hope amidst ongoing conflict.
The film offers a unique blend of music and geopolitical context, showcasing the power of art to transcend boundaries. It stands as a testament to cultural perseverance in challenging times.
3) The Producers (1968)
Mel Brooks' directorial debut, "The Producers," is a satirical comedy that shocked and delighted audiences upon its release. The film stars Zero Mostel as Max Bialystock, a struggling Broadway producer, and Gene Wilder as Leo Bloom, his neurotic accountant.
The plot revolves around their scheme to make money by producing a guaranteed flop. They select "Springtime for Hitler," a musical glorifying the Nazi leader, believing it will offend everyone and close immediately.
Brooks' irreverent humor and willingness to tackle taboo subjects set "The Producers" apart from other comedies of its time. The film's outrageous musical numbers and over-the-top performances contribute to its enduring appeal.
Despite initial mixed reviews, "The Producers" went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It has since become a cult classic and spawned a successful Broadway musical adaptation.
The film's impact on comedy and satire continues to be felt decades after its release, cementing its place as a landmark in American cinema.
More information on The Producers (1967 film)
4) Planet of the Apes (1968)
Planet of the Apes captivated audiences with its groundbreaking science fiction premise. The film follows an astronaut crew that crash-lands on a strange planet ruled by intelligent apes.
Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, the movie stars Charlton Heston as the lead astronaut Taylor. Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter deliver memorable performances as the sympathetic chimpanzees Cornelius and Zira.
The film's striking makeup effects by John Chambers were revolutionary for the time. They allowed the ape characters to convey nuanced emotions and personalities.
Planet of the Apes explores themes of evolution, race relations, and the nature of humanity. Its shocking twist ending cemented its place as a sci-fi classic.
The movie spawned a successful franchise including multiple sequels, remakes, and spin-offs. It continues to influence popular culture decades after its release.
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5) 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" revolutionized science fiction cinema. The film's groundbreaking visual effects and thought-provoking narrative set new standards for the genre.
Kubrick's meticulous attention to detail created a realistic depiction of space travel. The film's silent sequences and use of classical music contribute to its unique atmosphere.
The story spans millions of years, from prehistoric times to a futuristic journey to Jupiter. It explores themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the search for extraterrestrial life.
The enigmatic monolith and the sentient computer HAL 9000 are iconic elements of the film. Their presence raises questions about humanity's place in the universe and the nature of consciousness.
"2001: A Space Odyssey" continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences decades after its release. Its legacy as a cinematic masterpiece remains undisputed.
6) Oliver! (1968)
Oliver! is a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novel "Oliver Twist." Directed by Carol Reed, the film brings the beloved story to life with memorable songs and vibrant performances.
Mark Lester stars as the titular orphan Oliver, who navigates the harsh streets of Victorian London. Ron Moody delivers a standout performance as the charismatic criminal Fagin, while Oliver Reed portrays the menacing Bill Sikes.
The film's musical numbers, including "Food, Glorious Food" and "Consider Yourself," are energetic and well-choreographed. They capture the spirit of Lionel Bart's original stage production while taking advantage of the cinematic medium.
Oliver! received critical acclaim and commercial success upon its release. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Carol Reed. The film's blend of drama, humor, and music continues to captivate audiences decades later.
Learn more about Oliver! on IMDb
7) Yellow Submarine (1968)
Yellow Submarine is an animated musical fantasy film featuring the music of The Beatles. Directed by George Dunning, it showcases vibrant visuals and surreal imagery.
The story follows the Fab Four as they journey to Pepperland in a yellow submarine to save it from the music-hating Blue Meanies. Along the way, they encounter strange creatures and colorful landscapes.
While not a traditional documentary, Yellow Submarine offers a unique glimpse into the psychedelic culture of the 1960s. Its innovative animation techniques and art style influenced future animated productions.
The film features classic Beatles songs like "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" and "All You Need Is Love." Despite initial reports, the band members did not voice their animated counterparts.
Yellow Submarine's blend of music, art, and storytelling makes it a cultural touchstone of its era. It remains a beloved piece of Beatles history and 1960s pop culture.
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8) Faces
John Cassavetes directed "Faces" in 1968, a raw and intimate examination of a crumbling marriage. Shot in high-contrast 16mm black and white, the film employs a cinéma vérité style to capture the emotional turmoil of its characters.
The story follows Richard and Maria, a middle-aged couple whose relationship has reached a breaking point. As they seek comfort in the arms of others, the film explores themes of loneliness, desire, and the search for genuine connection.
Cassavetes assembled a talented cast, including John Marley, Lynn Carlin, and Gena Rowlands. Their performances are notably naturalistic, adding to the film's authentic and improvisational feel.
"Faces" received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of marital discord and suburban malaise. It earned three Academy Award nominations, including Best Supporting Actor for Seymour Cassel and Best Supporting Actress for Lynn Carlin.
The film's influence on independent cinema cannot be overstated. Its gritty realism and focus on character-driven narratives paved the way for future filmmakers to explore complex human relationships on screen.
More information on "Faces" (1968)
9) If.... (1968)
Lindsay Anderson's "If...." is a provocative and surreal British drama set in an English public school. The film follows Mick Travis and his rebellious classmates as they clash with the oppressive establishment.
Malcolm McDowell delivers a memorable performance as Travis, the charismatic leader of the student uprising. The film's stark black-and-white and color sequences heighten its dreamlike atmosphere.
"If...." explores themes of authority, rebellion, and societal change. Its controversial ending shocked audiences and sparked debates about youth culture and institutional power.
The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1969 Cannes Film Festival. It remains a potent critique of the British class system and educational institutions of the 1960s.
More information on "If...." (IMDb)
10) The Lion in Winter (1968)
"The Lion in Winter" is a historical drama directed by Anthony Harvey. The film stars Peter O'Toole as King Henry II and Katharine Hepburn as Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Set in 1183, the story revolves around a Christmas gathering of the royal family. Henry II must choose an heir among his three sons, leading to intense power struggles and political maneuvering.
The film's sharp dialogue and stellar performances earned it critical acclaim. Katharine Hepburn won her third Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Eleanor.
"The Lion in Winter" also marked the film debuts of Anthony Hopkins and Timothy Dalton. Both actors would go on to have successful careers in Hollywood.
Despite being set in medieval times, the film's themes of family conflict and political intrigue remain relevant today. Its witty script and complex characters continue to captivate audiences.
Cultural Impact of Documentaries in 1968
The documentaries of 1968 reflected and shaped the tumultuous social landscape of the time. They captured pivotal moments and influenced public discourse on pressing issues.
Social and Political Context
1968 was marked by social upheaval and political turmoil. Documentaries served as powerful tools for capturing and disseminating information about civil rights movements, anti-war protests, and cultural shifts.
Films like "The Queen" explored LGBTQ+ communities, bringing marginalized voices to the forefront. "Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take One" challenged traditional filmmaking methods, mirroring the era's questioning of established norms.
These documentaries provided raw, unfiltered glimpses into the realities of American life during a transformative period. They sparked conversations about race, gender, and power structures, contributing to the broader societal dialogue.
Influence on Future Filmmaking
The innovative techniques employed in 1968 documentaries had a lasting impact on the genre. Filmmakers experimented with new styles, blending observational footage with subjective perspectives.
"Salesman" pioneered the direct cinema approach, influencing generations of documentary makers. Its fly-on-the-wall style became a hallmark of modern documentary filmmaking.
These works inspired future directors to push boundaries and explore unconventional narratives. The emphasis on authenticity and immediacy in 1968 documentaries set new standards for truthful storytelling in non-fiction films.
The legacy of these groundbreaking documentaries continues to shape the medium, encouraging filmmakers to tackle complex social issues with creativity and boldness.
Innovative Techniques Used in 1968 Documentaries
1968 saw filmmakers push the boundaries of documentary storytelling through groundbreaking methods. Experimental approaches in camerawork, editing, and narrative structure redefined the genre and captured the era's radical spirit.
Cinematography and Editing
Handheld cameras brought a new sense of immediacy to 1968 documentaries. Filmmakers embraced shaky, dynamic shots that placed viewers in the midst of unfolding events. This cinéma vérité style lent authenticity to footage of protests and political rallies.
Quick cuts and jarring transitions mirrored the frenetic pace of the times. Editors juxtaposed contrasting images to create powerful metaphors and social commentary. Split-screen techniques allowed for simultaneous depiction of multiple perspectives.
Some documentarians incorporated found footage from news broadcasts and home movies. This collage approach provided historical context and a sense of lived experience.
Narrative Styles
1968 documentaries often blurred the line between fact and fiction. Filmmakers like Haskell Wexler combined scripted scenes with real-life events in works like "Medium Cool".
Non-linear storytelling became more prevalent. Directors abandoned strict chronology in favor of thematic organization or stream-of-consciousness narratives.
Voice-over narration was frequently eschewed in favor of letting subjects speak for themselves. This direct cinema approach aimed for greater objectivity and authenticity.
Some films employed satirical or surrealist elements to critique social and political issues. Puppetry and animation occasionally featured alongside live-action footage.
