10 Films Every Film Studies Student Should Watch And Why

Film studies is a fascinating field of study that delves into the art, history, and cultural significance of cinema. For students of film studies, watching and analysing films is a crucial part of the learning process. With so many movies out there to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones are the most essential for a well-rounded film education. So we've compiled a list of 10 films every film studies student should watch and why. 

From the groundbreaking works of directors like Martin Scorsese and Stanley Kubrick to the iconic performances of actors like Marlon Brando and Meryl Streep, each of these films offers a unique perspective on the art and craft of filmmaking. We'll explore the historical and cultural context of each film, as well as its technical and artistic merits, to help you understand why it's considered a must-see for any serious film student. 

Citizen Kane (1941)

Directed by Orson Welles, Citizen Kane is a groundbreaking film that revolutionized the language of cinema. It is a must-watch for any film studies student because of its innovative cinematography, storytelling, and acting.

Citizen Kane is a 1941 American drama film directed by Orson Welles, who also co-wrote and starred in the film. The story is centered around Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy and powerful newspaper magnate who dies alone in his mansion. The film follows a reporter as he investigates Kane's life and tries to uncover the meaning behind his cryptic final word, "Rosebud."

Citizen Kane is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time and is worth studying for several reasons. First, the film's innovative use of narrative structure, nonlinear storytelling, and deep focus cinematography broke new ground in filmmaking and had a significant impact on the development of cinema as an art form. The film explores complex themes such as power, wealth, and the corrupting influence of fame, which continue to resonate with audiences today.

Citizen Kane provides a glimpse into the life of a media mogul and offers a commentary on the role of the media in shaping public opinion, which is particularly relevant in today's society where media ownership and control continue to be debated. Finally, the film features exceptional performances from its cast and is a compelling and visually stunning work of art.

Citizen Kaneis a masterpiece of cinema and a must-watch for anyone interested in film history, storytelling, and the power of media. Its innovative techniques, complex themes, and enduring legacy make it a film worth studying and revisiting.

Breathless (1960)

Directed by Jean-Luc Godard, Breathless is a seminal work of the French New Wave. It features jump cuts, hand-held camera work, and non-linear storytelling that broke with traditional Hollywood narrative conventions.

Breathless is a 1960 French New Wave film directed by Jean-Luc Godard, starring Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg. The film follows Michel Poiccard, a small-time thief who impulsively kills a police officer and goes on the run. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with an American student named Patricia, and the two engage in a tumultuous relationship as Michel tries to evade the police.

Breathless is worth studying for several reasons. Firstly, it is a groundbreaking film that helped to launch the French New Wave movement, which had a significant impact on the development of cinema as an art form. The film's use of jump cuts, handheld camera work, and naturalistic performances broke with traditional Hollywood filmmaking and influenced many filmmakers who followed.

Breathless explores themes of rebellion, identity, and the search for meaning in a post-World War II world, which were central concerns of the French New Wave. The film reflects the social and cultural changes of its time, offering a window into the shifting values and attitudes of postwar Europe.

Breathless features iconic performances from its lead actors, as well as a memorable jazz score by composer Martial Solal. The film's sense of cool detachment and its blending of high and low culture continue to captivate audiences today and have made it a classic of world cinema.

Breathless is a landmark film that is essential viewing for anyone interested in the history and development of cinema. Its innovative techniques, complex themes, and enduring legacy make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

The Godfather (1972)

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, The Godfather is an American classic that explores the dynamics of power and family in organized crime. It is a perfect example of a well-crafted, multi-layered story that has influenced countless films.

The Godfather is a 1972 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel of the same name by Mario Puzo. The film tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful Italian-American mafia clan, and their struggles to maintain power and control in the face of rivalries, betrayals, and violence.

The Godfather is worth studying as it is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made and is considered a masterpiece of American cinema. The film's richly drawn characters, complex storyline, and powerful performances from its cast make it a compelling and engaging work of art.

The Godfather explores themes of family, loyalty, power, and corruption, which continue to resonate with audiences today. The film reflects the social and cultural changes of its time, including the decline of traditional American values and the rise of organized crime in American society.

It has had a profound impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous films, television shows, and books that have been influenced by its themes, characters, and iconic imagery. The film's legacy has helped to shape the way we understand and think about American culture and its relationship to power and violence. The Godfather is a classic of American cinema that is essential viewing for anyone interested in the history and development of film. Its complex themes, richly drawn characters, and enduring legacy make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

Vertigo (1958)

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Vertigo is a psychological thriller that explores the themes of obsession and identity. It is famous for its stunning visuals, twist ending, and its impact on the genre of film noir.

Vertigo is a 1958 psychological thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. The film follows the story of John "Scottie" Ferguson, a retired detective who is hired to follow a woman named Madeleine Elster (Kim Novak), who appears to be possessed by the ghost of her great-grandmother. As Scottie becomes obsessed with Madeleine, he begins to experience vertigo, a debilitating fear of heights, which ultimately leads to a tragic and twisted conclusion.

Vertigo is a masterful example of the psychological thriller genre, and its intricate plot, complex characters, and haunting score make it an enduring classic of cinema. Secondly, the film explores themes of obsession, control, and identity, raising important questions about the nature of human desire and the ways in which we construct our sense of self. The film features innovative camera techniques, including the use of a dolly zoom, which creates a disorienting effect that mimics Scottie's vertigo and contributes to the film's sense of unease.

Vertigo has had a significant impact on popular culture and has influenced many filmmakers since its release, making it an important film to study for those interested in the history and development of cinema. Vertigo is a compelling and thought-provoking film that continues to captivate audiences today and is worth studying for its innovative techniques, complex themes, and enduring influence on cinema.

La Jetée (1962)

Directed by Chris Marker, La Jetée is a groundbreaking experimental film that uses still images to tell its story. It explores themes of memory, time, and identity, and has influenced many filmmakers and artists.

La Jetée is a 1962 French science fiction film directed by Chris Marker, which tells the story of a post-apocalyptic world where a prisoner is sent back in time to search for a solution to the present-day problems.

La Jetée is an innovative and experimental film that is made up almost entirely of still images, with only a few short sequences of live-action footage. This unique approach to storytelling challenges the traditional notions of filmmaking and offers a fresh perspective on the medium.

La Jetée explores complex themes such as memory, time travel, and the human condition. The film raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of memory, the relationship between past and present, and the limits of human knowledge and experience.

La Jetée has had a profound influence on filmmakers and artists around the world, inspiring numerous works that have drawn from its imagery, narrative structure, and philosophical ideas. The film's impact on the development of science fiction cinema and its lasting cultural significance make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

It is an innovative and thought-provoking film that challenges traditional notions of filmmaking and explores complex themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. Its influence on the development of cinema and its enduring legacy make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

Singin' in the Rain (1952)

Directed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen, Singin' in the Rain is a beloved musical that showcases the best of the Hollywood studio system. It is a must-watch for its stunning dance numbers, catchy songs, and comedic performances.

Singin' in the Rain is a 1952 American musical comedy film directed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen. The film tells the story of the transition from silent films to "talkies" in Hollywood during the 1920s and follows the romantic and professional challenges faced by its protagonists.

It is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicals ever made and has had a significant impact on the development of the genre. The film features iconic musical numbers, including the title song, that continue to be celebrated and studied for their choreography, staging, and technical innovation.

Singin' in the Rain explores themes of artistry, creativity, and the impact of technology on popular culture. The film reflects the social and cultural changes of its time, including the rise of mass media and the impact of sound on the film industry. Singin' in the Rain has had a lasting cultural impact and continues to be celebrated and referenced in popular culture today. The film's influence on the development of Hollywood cinema and its legacy as a classic of American filmmaking make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

It is a classic of American cinema that is essential viewing for anyone interested in the history and development of the musical genre. Its iconic musical numbers, exploration of complex themes, and enduring legacy make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

Tokyo Story (1953)

Directed by Yasujirō Ozu, Tokyo Story is a masterpiece of Japanese cinema that explores the tensions between generations in post-war Japan. It is known for its slow pacing, minimalist style, and its ability to evoke deep emotions.

Tokyo Story is a 1953 Japanese drama film directed by Yasujiro Ozu. The film tells the story of an elderly couple who travel to Tokyo to visit their adult children, only to find that they are too busy with their own lives to spend time with them. The film explores themes of family, aging, and social change in post-war Japan.

Tokyo Story is worth studying for several reasons. First, it is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Japanese cinema and one of the greatest films ever made. The film's careful attention to detail, subtle performances, and understated approach to storytelling create a powerful and emotionally resonant portrait of family dynamics and societal change.

Secondly, Tokyo Story reflects the social and cultural changes of post-war Japan and highlights the tensions between traditional values and modernization. The film explores the changing roles of women and the challenges of intergenerational relationships, themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. It has had a lasting impact on the development of world cinema and has been celebrated by filmmakers and critics around the world. The film's influence on the development of Japanese cinema and its legacy as a classic of world cinema make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

Tokyo Story is a masterful work of cinema that explores complex themes of family, aging, and social change in post-war Japan. Its influence on the development of Japanese cinema and its lasting cultural significance make it a film worth studying and appreciating.

Raging Bull (1980)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, Raging Bull is a biographical sports drama that features one of the best performances by Robert De Niro. It is famous for its gritty, realistic portrayal of the boxing world, and its exploration of themes such as violence, redemption, and masculinity.

Raging Bull is a 1980 American biographical sports drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the life of the former middleweight boxing champion Jake LaMotta. The film portrays LaMotta's turbulent life, both inside and outside of the ring, as he struggles with jealousy, anger, and violence.

Raging Bull is considered one of the greatest films ever made, praised for its masterful direction, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances, particularly from Robert De Niro, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of LaMotta.

The film is an example of how to use film to explore complex themes such as self-destruction, toxic masculinity, and the American dream. It portrays the rise and fall of LaMotta, who embodies the darker side of the American dream, as he struggles to find success both in and out of the ring.

Raging Bull is a film that continues to be studied and analyzed by filmmakers and scholars for its technical innovations, particularly its use of black-and-white cinematography, sound design, and editing techniques. It has had a lasting impact on the development of cinema and remains a significant work of American filmmaking.

Apocalypse Now (1979)

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Apocalypse Now is a Vietnam War epic that is considered one of the best war films ever made. It is famous for its stunning cinematography, its portrayal of the horrors of war, and its exploration of the human psyche.

Apocalypse Now is a 1979 epic war film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, loosely based on Joseph Conrad's novel "Heart of Darkness." The film follows Captain Willard, a US Army officer, who is sent on a mission to assassinate a rogue colonel named Kurtz, who has gone insane and is leading his own army deep in the jungles of Vietnam.

Apocalypse Now is a cinematic masterpiece that is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. The film's innovative cinematography, sound design, and editing techniques broke new ground in filmmaking, and its haunting score and powerful performances have made it an enduring classic. The film is a searing commentary on the Vietnam War and its psychological impact on those who fought in it. The film depicts the horrors of war in a visceral and unflinching way, highlighting the senselessness and brutality of the conflict.

Apocalypse Now is a film that continues to be studied and analysed for its cultural and historical significance. It captures a particular moment in American history and reflects the disillusionment and cynicism that many felt towards the war and the government's handling of it.

Apocalypse Now is a landmark film that is worth studying for its technical and artistic achievements, its commentary on the Vietnam War, and its cultural and historical significance. It remains a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience that continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.

Bicycle Thieves (1948)

Directed by Vittorio De Sica, Bicycle Thieves is a neorealist masterpiece that tells the story of a man who searches for his stolen bicycle. It is famous for its raw, emotional storytelling, its realistic portrayal of post-war Italy, and its exploration of themes such as poverty, desperation, and family.

Bicycle Thieves is a 1948 Italian neorealist film directed by Vittorio De Sica. The film follows the story of Antonio, an unemployed man in post-World War II Rome who finally lands a job as a poster hanger, but on his first day, his bicycle is stolen, and he and his son embark on a desperate search through the streets of Rome to find it.

Bicycle Thieves is worth studying for several reasons. Firstly, it is a classic example of Italian neorealism, a film movement that emerged in Italy in the aftermath of World War II. The movement emphasized a realistic representation of everyday life, often focusing on the struggles of working-class people. Bicycle Thieves is a poignant and heartfelt portrayal of poverty and social injustice in post-war Italy, which has influenced many filmmakers since.

Secondly, the film's use of non-professional actors and real-life locations helped to create a sense of authenticity and immediacy, which has also influenced subsequent films. The film's simple, unadorned style is a testament to the power of filmmaking and storytelling. Bicycle Thieves is a film that raises important questions about poverty, social inequality, and the human condition. The film's universal themes make it relevant to audiences from different cultures and backgrounds.

Bicycle Thieves is a masterpiece of Italian neorealism that is worth studying for its groundbreaking cinematic techniques, its social commentary, and its universal themes. It is a film that continues to be admired and celebrated for its profound impact on cinema and society.

By studying these films, students can gain a better understanding of the art of filmmaking, the social and cultural contexts in which films are made, and the role of cinema in shaping our lives and society. These films are timeless classics that will continue to inspire and influence filmmakers and film lovers for generations to come, and they are essential viewing for any film studies student looking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of cinema.

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