The 1940s were a paradoxical time for cinema.
The first half was marked by wartime uncertainty, while postwar optimist dominated the second half.
The best of them feel fresh even today, boasting snappy dialogue, pioneering cinematography, and unforgettable performances.
Image by Zanda Rice
With this in mind,this list looks at ten movies from that decade that have staying power.
They aren’t fossils but living, breathing works of art that shaped the modern cinematic landscape.
In this regard, the script was light years ahead of its time, influencing later writers likeQuentin Tarantino.
Image via Columbia Pictures
Devlin (Cary Grant), to infiltrate a secret Nazi organization hiding in South America.
Alicia’s mission is defined by duty, danger, and a complicated relationship with Devlin.
The final fade to black is also effective and memorable.
The director does rewrite the plot somewhat, but retains the affecting portrait of perseverance amid crushing adversity.
We ain’t got no badges."
His companions are played byTim HoltandWalter Huston, son of directorJohn Huston.
Image via RKO Radio Pictures
“Vittorio De Sica’sBicycle Thievesis aheartbreaking neorealist classicthat captures the quiet desperation of post-war Italy.
The lead performers were (at the time) non-actors too, adding to this unvarnished feel.
“Double Indemnityisthe quintessential film noir; a sultry, shadow-drenched tale of temptation and moral decay.
Wilders razor-sharp script, co-written with crime novelistRaymond Chandler, crackles with hard-boiled dialogue and relentless tension.
The films shadowy cinematography amplifies its mood of doom.
The finished product isfatalistic, morally ambiguous, and irresistibly alluring.
Image via 20th Century Studios
He was truly one of the foremost talents of this era.
What elevatesThe Great Dictatoris itsextraordinary balance of humor and conviction.
3’Citizen Kane' (1941)
Directed by Orson Welles
“Rosebud.
That Wells did all this at just 28 years old remains deeply impressive.
Performances, writing, and direction all harmonize perfectly here.
Much of the dialogue has since become iconic, as has the evocative score.
Image via Warner Bros.
A runaway hit on release, the film’s reputation has only grown in the decades that followed.
The film brims with warmth and sincerity, combining small-town charm with universal truths.
NEXT:The 10 Most Essential Movies of 1974, Ranked
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Image courtesy via Paramount Pictures
Image via United Artists
Image via RKO Radio Pictures
Image via Warner Bros.
Image via RKO Radio Pictures
