As a cinephile, I can confidently say that classic films are truly a treasure trove of hidden gems. However, not all of these gems receive the appreciation that they truly deserve. In this blog post, I will be highlighting the most underrated classic films that you should add to your watchlist.

What Defines a Classic Film? 🤔

Before we dive into the list, it’s important to understand what makes a film a “classic”. Generally, classic films are movies that have transcended time and have left a lasting impact on cinema. They are often black and white and were released in the 1920s-1960s. They have a certain quality that has stood the test of time and have captivated audiences for decades.

1. Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927) 🌅

This stunning silent film directed by German filmmaker F.W. Murnau tells the story of an unhappy couple (George O’Brien and Janet Gaynor) whose marriage is tested when the husband is seduced by a city woman. The film is a visual feast with stunning visuals and innovative camera techniques. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, at the very first ceremony in 1929.

A black and white image of Janet Gaynor and George O'Brien sitting in a rowboat on a lake

2. Sweet Smell of Success (1957) 🎭

This film noir classic directed by Alexander Mackendrick stars Burt Lancaster as a powerful newspaper columnist who uses his influence to destroy the lives of those around him. Tony Curtis gives a standout performance as a hungry press agent who becomes entangled in his schemes. The film’s sharp dialogue and dark themes make it a must-see for anyone who loves the noir genre.

A black and white image of Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis standing in front of the iconic Times Square sign

3. It Happened One Night (1934) 🚗

This romantic comedy directed by Frank Capra stars Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert as an unlikely pair who fall in love while on a cross-country trip together. The film is a charming and hilarious classic that set the bar for romantic comedies to come. It was the first film to win all five major Academy Awards (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay).

A black and white image of Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert sitting on a bus

4. The African Queen (1951) 🚣

This adventure classic directed by John Huston stars Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn as two strangers who team up to take on a dangerous mission in Africa during World War I. The chemistry between Bogart and Hepburn is electric, and the stunning African scenery makes this film a feast for the eyes. It won Bogart his only Academy Award for Best Actor.

A black and white image of Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn on a boat in a river

5. The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) ☔

This romantic musical directed by Jacques Demy tells the story of Geneviève (Catherine Deneuve), a young woman in love with a man who must leave for military service. The film is unique in that all of the dialogue is sung, and the vibrant colors and beautiful French scenery make it an enchanting experience. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film.

A colorful image of Catherine Deneuve standing in front of a store with large umbrellas outside

In Conclusion 🎉

So, there you have it - five of the most underrated classic films that you need to add to your watchlist ASAP. These films may have been overlooked by many, but they truly are cinematic treasures that deserve to be rediscovered.

A collage of black and white and colorful images from the five films discussed above