Fasten your seatbelts, folks! We’re about to take a cinematic time machine back to 1956, a golden year in the history of film. This was a time when the silver screen was graced with the likes of Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and Audrey Hepburn. A time when Technicolor was the height of innovation and the drive-in was the place to be on a Saturday night. We’ve dusted off the archives and compiled a list of the top 20 fan-favorite movies from this unforgettable year. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be transported back to the era of poodle skirts and pompadours. Whether you’re a film buff, a nostalgia enthusiast, or just curious about the classics, this list is sure to entertain and inspire. Let’s roll the film on the top 20 fan-favorite movies from 1956: a nostalgic cinematic journey that will make you yearn for the good old days. Lights, camera, action!
Toto, Peppino, and the Hussy
“Toto, Peppino, and the Hussy” is a heartwarming Italian film released on August 23, 1956. Set in Naples, it follows three brothers who embark on a journey to Milan to convince their nephew, Gianni, to abandon his love for a ballet dancer and continue his medical studies. Starring popular actors Totò and Peppino De Filippo, this movie promises a delightful mix of family dynamics, romance, and comedic moments.
Aparajito
“Aparajito” is a captivating film that continues the story of Apu and his family as they move from the countryside to the vibrant city of Varanasi. As Apu grows from a curious child to an intellectually curious teenager, we witness his academic and moral journey, along with the evolving dynamics between him and his mother. This emotionally touching movie, starring Karuna Banerjee, Smaran Ghosal, and Pinaki Sengupta, won three prestigious awards at the Venice Film Festival, including the Golden Lion. Released on October 11, 1956, it beautifully expands and deepens the tale of Apu.
Cast: Karuna Banerjee (Sarbojaya Ray) , Smaran Ghosal (Teenage Apu) , Pinaki Sengupta (Young Apu) , Kanu Bannerjee (Harihar Ray) , Santi Gupta (Ginnima) , Ramani Sengupta (Bhabataran) , Ranibala (Teliginni) , Sudipta Roy (Nirupama) , Ajay Mitra (Anil) , Charuprakash Ghosh (Nanda) , Subodh Ganguli (Headmaster) , Hemanta Chatterjee (Professor) , Kamala Adhikari (Mokshada) , Lalchand Banerjee (Lahiri) , Kali Bannerjee (Kathak) , Panchanan Bhattacharya () , Debabrata Chakraborty () , Harendrakumar Chakravarti (Doctor) , Meenakshi Devi (Pandey’s wife) , Anil Mukherjee (Abinash) , Shibnarayan Nag () , Bhaganu Palwan (Palwan) , K.S. Pandey (Pandey) , Saraswati Pandey () , Kalicharan Roy (Akhil, press owner)
Directors: Satyajit Ray
Writers: Satyajit Ray, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay
Tags: loss of loved one, based on novel or book, varanasi, pneumonia, scholarship, sequel, coming of age, india, calcutta, mother son relationship
The Burmese Harp
“The Burmese Harp” is a captivating movie set in Burma during the final days of World War II. It follows the journey of a resourceful Japanese soldier who disguises himself as a Buddhist monk to escape capture as a POW. With a talented cast and a release date of January 21, 1956, this film is definitely worth checking out for its intriguing storyline and historical backdrop.
The Ten Commandments
“The Ten Commandments” is a captivating movie released in 1956, starring Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, and Anne Baxter. Set in ancient times, it tells the story of Moses, a Hebrew prince who discovers his true heritage and embarks on a personal journey to lead and liberate his people. With a stellar cast and a gripping plot, this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in epic tales of destiny and redemption.
Cast: Charlton Heston (Moses) , Yul Brynner (Rameses) , Anne Baxter (Nefretiri) , Edward G. Robinson (Dathan) , Yvonne De Carlo (Sephora) , Debra Paget (Lilia) , John Derek (Joshua) , Cedric Hardwicke (Sethi) , Nina Foch (Bithiah) , Martha Scott (Yochabel) , Judith Anderson (Memnet) , Vincent Price (Baka) , John Carradine (Aaron) , Olive Deering (Miriam) , Douglass Dumbrille (Jannes) , Frank De Kova (Abiram) , Henry Wilcoxon (Pentaur) , Eduard Franz (Jethro) , Donald Curtis (Mered) , Lawrence Dobkin (Hur Ben Caleb) , H.B. Warner (Amminadab) , Julia Faye (Elisheba) , Lisa Mitchell (Jethro’s Daughter) , Noelle Williams (Jethro’s Daughter) , Joanna Merlin (Jethro’s Daughter)
Directors: Cecil B. DeMille
Writers: Jesse Lasky Jr., J.H. Ingraham, A.E. Southon, Dorothy Clarke Wilson, Æneas MacKenzie, Jack Gariss, Fredric M. Frank
Tags: christianity, moses, israel, egypt, miracle, slavery, ten commandments, bible, epic, religion, judaism, ancient egypt, technicolor, old testament, pharaoh, passover, christian film
The Searchers
“The Searchers” is a captivating 1956 movie that follows a Civil War veteran’s relentless quest to find his young niece, who was taken by Indians. Starring John Wayne, Jeffrey Hunter, and Vera Miles, this film explores the protagonist’s increasingly questionable motivations as he spends years searching for his beloved family member. Released on May 7, 1956, “The Searchers” is a must-watch for fans of Westerns and gripping storytelling.
The Band of Honest Men
“The Band of Honest Men” is a hilarious Italian comedy set in the mid ’60s. It follows three friends from a poor neighborhood who come up with a plan to get rich by printing counterfeit money. With one of them being a typographer, they embark on a series of comical misadventures as they try to spend their ill-gotten gains, while dealing with their own family issues. Released in 1956, this movie is a delightful blend of humor, surprises, and a talented cast including Totò, Peppino De Filippo, and Giulia Rubini.
The Killing
“The Killing” is a thrilling crime film released in 1956. It follows career criminal Johnny Clay as he assembles a team of misfits for one last heist before turning his life around. However, things take an unexpected turn when one of the team members’ wife discovers their plan and decides to take matters into her own hands. With a talented cast including Sterling Hayden and Coleen Gray, this movie is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and twist-filled stories.
Cast: Sterling Hayden (Johnny Clay) , Coleen Gray (Fay) , Vince Edwards (Val Cannon) , Jay C. Flippen (Marvin Unger) , Ted de Corsia (Randy Kennan) , Marie Windsor (Sherry Peatty) , Elisha Cook Jr. (George Peatty) , Joe Sawyer (Mike O’Reilly) , James Edwards (Track Parking Attendant) , Timothy Carey (Nikki Arcane) , Kola Kwariani (Maurice Oboukhoff) , Jay Adler (Leo the Loanshark) , Tito Vuolo (Joe Piano – motel manager) , Dorothy Adams (Mrs. Ruthie O’Reilly) , Herbert Ellis (2nd American Airlines Clerk) , James Griffith (Mr. Grimes) , Cecil Elliott (Lady with Small Dog) , Joe Turkel (Tiny) , Steve Mitchell (Brown – American Airlines Clerk) , Mary Carroll (Woman Asking Kennan for Help) , William Benedict (American Airlines Clerk) , Charles Cane (Plainclothesman at Airport) , Robert B. Williams (Plainclothesman at Airport) , Tom Coleman (Racetrack Spectator (uncredited)) , Rodney Dangerfield (Onlooker (uncredited))
Directors: Stanley Kubrick
Writers: Stanley Kubrick, Lionel White, Jim Thompson
Tags: corruption, adultery, robbery, horse race, husband wife relationship, way of life, sniper, ex-detainee, gangster, marriage crisis, femme fatale, film noir, heist, bag of money, black and white
Giant
“Giant” is a captivating 1956 movie starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean. Set in Texas, it tells the story of a wealthy rancher and a poor cowboy who both fall for a young woman from Maryland. As their love triangle unfolds, the movie explores themes of racial bigotry and prejudice, while also delving into the discovery of oil and the conflicts it brings. With a stellar cast and a thought-provoking plot, “Giant” is definitely a must-watch from 1956.
Cast: Elizabeth Taylor (Leslie Lynnton Benedict) , Rock Hudson (Jordan “Bick” Benedict Jr.) , James Dean (Jett Rink) , Carroll Baker (Luz Benedict II) , Jane Withers (Vashti Synthe) , Chill Wills (Uncle Bawley) , Mercedes McCambridge (Luz Benedict) , Dennis Hopper (Jordan “Jordy” Benedict III) , Sal Mineo (Angel Obregón II) , Rod Taylor (Sir David Karfrey) , Judith Evelyn (Mrs. Nancy Lynnton) , Earl Holliman (‘Bob’ Dace) , Robert Nichols (Mort ‘Pinky’ Snythe) , Paul Fix (Dr. Horace Lynnton) , Alexander Scourby (Old Polo) , Charles Watts (Judge Oliver Whiteside) , Elsa Cárdenas (Juana Guerra Benedict) , Carolyn Craig (Lacey Lynnton) , Monte Hale (Bale Clinch) , Sheb Wooley (Gabe Target) , Mary Ann Edwards (Adarene Clinch) , Victor Millan (Angel Obregón Sr.) , Mickey Simpson (Sarge) , Pilar Del Rey (Mrs. Obregón) , Maurice Jara (Dr. Guerra)
Directors: George Stevens
Writers: Edna Ferber, Fred Guiol, Ivan Moffat
Tags: hotel, jealousy, judge, texas, wine cellar, restaurant, ranch, senator, funeral, sexism, petrol, rags to riches, beef, tycoon, maryland, barbecue (bbq), birthday party, turkey, pony, riding class, hunting
The Man Who Knew Too Much
“The Man Who Knew Too Much” is a thrilling movie from 1956 that follows a couple on their vacation in Morocco. Things take a dangerous turn when they accidentally uncover an assassination plot and their young son gets kidnapped to keep them quiet. With an incredible cast including James Stewart and Doris Day, this suspenseful film will keep you on the edge of your seat as they fight to save their child.”
Cast: James Stewart (Dr. Ben McKenna) , Doris Day (Jo McKenna) , Brenda De Banzie (Lucy Drayton) , Bernard Miles (Edward Drayton) , Ralph Truman (Buchanan) , Daniel Gélin (Louis Bernard) , Mogens Wieth (Ambassador) , Alan Mowbray (Val Parnell) , Hillary Brooke (Jan Peterson) , Reggie Nalder (Assassin at Albert Hall) , Richard Wattis (Assistant Manager) , Noel Willman (Woburn) , Christopher Olsen (Hank McKenna) , Alix Talton (Helen Parnell) , Yves Brainville (Police Inspector) , Carolyn Jones (Cindy Fontaine) , Bernard Herrmann (Conductor at Albert Hall) , Covent Garden Chorus (Themselves) , Barbara Howitt (Self – Soloist) , Patrick Aherne (Handyman (uncredited)) , Frank Albertson (Worker at the Taxidermist’s (uncredited)) , Frank Atkinson (Taxidermist (uncredited)) , John Barrard (Taxidermist (uncredited)) , Mayne Lynton (Taxidermist (uncredited)) , Clifford Buckton (Sir Kenneth Clarke (uncredited))
Directors: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Charles Bennett, John Michael Hayes, D.B. Wyndham-Lewis
Tags: london, england, assassination, scotland yard, bus, morocco, paranoia, remake, conspiracy, whodunit, american, physician, frenchman, cymbals
Invasion of the Body Snatchers
Released in 1956, “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” is a thrilling sci-fi movie that follows a small-town doctor who uncovers a shocking secret. As he investigates, he discovers that his community is being taken over by emotionless alien duplicates. Starring Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter, this film is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and mind-bending stories.
Cast: Kevin McCarthy (Dr. Miles J. Bennell) , Dana Wynter (Becky Driscoll) , King Donovan (Jack Belicec) , Carolyn Jones (Theodora ‘Teddy’ Belicec) , Larry Gates (Dr. Dan ‘Danny’ Kauffman) , Kenneth Patterson (Stanley Driscoll) , Virginia Christine (Wilma Lentz) , Jean Willes (Nurse Sally Withers) , Ralph Dumke (Police Chief Nick Grivett) , Guy Way (Officer Sam Janzek) , Bobby Clark (Jimmy Grimaldi) , Beatrice Maude (Grandma Grimaldi) , Whit Bissell (Emergency Room Psychiatrist) , Richard Deacon (Emergency Room Doctor) , Robert Osterloh (Ambulance Attendant) , Guy Rennie (Restaurant Owner) , Eileen Stevens (Anne Grimaldi) , Tom Fadden (Uncle Ira Lentz) , Jean Andren (Eleda Lentz) , Everett Glass (Dr. Ed Pursey) , Sam Peckinpah (Charlie the Meter Reader) , Dabbs Greer (Mack Lomax) , Marie Selland (Martha Lomax) , Harry J. Vejar (Man carrying pods in Mile’s office (extra)) , J. Pat O’Malley (Railroad Baggage Handler (extra))
Directors: Don Siegel
Writers: Daniel Mainwaring, Jack Finney, Richard Collins
Tags: based on novel or book, small town, alien, black and white, doctor, patient, alien invasion, psychiatrist, alien infection, angry mob, doppelgänger, mystery writer, emotionless, paranoid, abandoned mine, personality change, alien plant-life
Forbidden Planet
“Forbidden Planet” is a classic sci-fi film released in 1956. It follows the journey of the starship C57D as it ventures to planet Altair 4 in search of a missing scientific expedition. However, they are met with hostility from the lone survivor and warned of an invisible force that threatens their very existence. With a talented cast including Walter Pidgeon, Anne Francis, and Leslie Nielsen, this movie is a thrilling and suspenseful adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Cast: Walter Pidgeon (Dr. Edward Morbius) , Anne Francis (Altaira Morbius) , Leslie Nielsen (Commander John J. Adams) , Warren Stevens (Lt. ‘Doc’ Ostrow) , Jack Kelly (Lt. Jerry Farman) , Marvin Miller (Voice of Robby the Robot) , Earl Holliman (Cookie) , Richard Anderson (Chief Engineer Quinn) , George Wallace (Bosun) , Robert Dix (Crewman Grey) , Jimmy Thompson (Crewman Youngerford) , James Drury (Crewman Strong) , Harry Harvey Jr. (Crewman Randall) , Roger McGee (Crewman Lindstrom) , Peter Miller (Crewman Moran) , Morgan Jones (Crewman Nichols) , Richard Grant (Crewman Silvers) , James Best (Crewman (uncredited)) , William Boyett (Crewman (uncredited)) , Les Tremayne (Narrator (uncredited) (voice)) , Frankie Darro (Robby the Robot (interior) (uncredited)) , Robby the Robot (Robby the Robot)
Directors: Fred M. Wilcox
Writers: Cyril Hume
Tags: flying saucer, space, alien planet, rescue mission, robot, electronic music score, sabotage, shakespeare in modern dress, mysterious death, alien civilization, lone survivor, extinct race, invisible monster, ray weapons, mind enhancement, atomic power plant, romantic triangle, creation of matter, misanthropy
Bigger Than Life
“Bigger Than Life” is a captivating 1956 movie that tells the story of a friendly suburban teacher and father who becomes dangerously addicted to cortisone. As his addiction takes hold, he undergoes a shocking transformation into a household despot. Starring James Mason, Barbara Rush, and Walter Matthau, this film offers a gripping portrayal of the devastating effects of addiction.
Cast: James Mason (Ed Avery) , Barbara Rush (Lou Avery) , Walter Matthau (Wally Gibbs) , Robert F. Simon (Dr. Norton) , Christopher Olsen (Richie Avery) , Roland Winters (Dr. Ruric) , Rusty Lane (Bob LaPorte) , Rachel Stephens (Nurse) , Kipp Hamilton (Pat Wade) , Betty Caulfield (Mrs. LaPorte (uncredited)) , Virginia Carroll (Mrs. Jones (uncredited)) , Renny McEvoy (Mr. Jones (uncredited)) , Billy Jones (Mr. Byron (uncredited)) , Dee Aaker (Joe (uncredited)) , Jerry Mathers (Freddie (uncredited)) , Portland Mason (Nancy (uncredited)) , Natalie Masters (Mrs. Tyndall (uncredited)) , Richard Collier (Milkman (uncredited)) , Lewis Charles (Mr. McLennan (uncredited)) , Gus Schilling (Druggist (uncredited)) , Alex Frazer (Clergyman (uncredited)) , Mary McAdoo (Mrs. Edwards (uncredited)) , Mary Carver (Saleslady (uncredited)) , Eugenia Paul (Saleslady (uncredited)) , Gladys Richards (Lab Nurse (uncredited))
Directors: Nicholas Ray
Writers: Richard Maibaum, Cyril Hume, Berton Roueché
Tags: husband wife relationship, drug addiction, paranoia, hallucination, family relationships, hospital, mental illness, schoolteacher, cortisone, verbal abuse, family life, father son relationship, personality change, mood swing
Somebody Up There Likes Me
“Somebody Up There Likes Me” is a captivating movie released in 1956 that tells the inspiring story of Rocky Graziano, a former troublemaker who becomes a world champion boxer. Starring Paul Newman, Pier Angeli, and Sal Mineo, this film takes you on a thrilling journey as Rocky overcomes his troubled past to achieve greatness in the boxing ring. It’s definitely a must-watch for fans of sports dramas!”
Cast: Paul Newman (Rocky Graziano) , Pier Angeli (Norma Graziano) , Everett Sloane (Irving Cohen) , Eileen Heckart (Ma Barbella) , Sal Mineo (Romolo) , Harold J. Stone (Nick Barbella) , Joseph Buloff (Benny) , Arch Johnson (Heldon) , Sammy White (Whitey Bimstein) , Robert P. Lieb (D. A. Hogan) , Theodore Newton (Edward Eagan) , Steve McQueen (Fidel (uncredited)) , Stanley Adams (Romolo’s Attorney (uncredited)) , Fred Aldrich (Ringside Photographer (uncredited)) , Leon Alton (Fight Spectator (uncredited)) , William Boyett (Military Policeman (uncredited)) , Bart Braverman (Boy (uncredited)) , John Breen (Hearing Specatator (uncredited)) , Frank Campanella (Detective (uncredited)) , Walter Cartier (Polack (uncredited)) , Angela Cartwright (Audrey at Age 3 (uncredited)) , George Cisar (Fence (uncredited)) , Russ Clark (Zale Fight Referee (uncredited)) , Tom Coleman (Reporter at Sparring Session (uncredited)) , Russ Conway (Captain Grifton (uncredited))
Directors: Robert Wise
Writers: Ernest Lehman, Rocky Graziano, Rowland Barber
Tags: new york city, parent child relationship, biography, marriage, army, convertible, based on memoir or autobiography, juvenile delinquent, fighting, policeman, boxing, abusive father
The Wrong Man
“The Wrong Man” is a gripping 1956 movie starring Henry Fonda and Vera Miles. Based on a true story, it follows the unfortunate tale of Christopher Emmanuel “Manny” Balestrero, who is mistakenly arrested for a crime he didn’t commit. With a stellar cast and a release date just in time for the holidays, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of 1956.
Sissi: The Young Empress
“Sissi: The Young Empress” is a captivating movie released in 1956 that follows the story of Sissi, who has now become the empress of Austria. As she navigates her new role, she faces the challenges of learning etiquette and dealing with her difficult mother-in-law. With a talented cast including Romy Schneider and Karlheinz Böhm, this film offers a delightful blend of romance, drama, and royal intrigue.
Cast: Romy Schneider (Empress Elisabeth) , Karlheinz Böhm (Emperor Franz Joseph) , Magda Schneider (Duchess Ludovika) , Vilma Degischer (Archduchess Sophie) , Gustav Knuth (Duke Max) , Walther Reyer (Count Andrassy) , Josef Meinrad (Major Böckl) , Senta Wengraf (Countess Bellegarde) , Erich Nikowitz (Archduke Franz Karl) , Hans Ziegler (Dr. Seeburger) , Uta Franz (Princess Helene) , Franz Böheim (Johann Petzmacher) , Helene Lauterböck (Gräfin Esterhazy) , Hilde Wagener ()
Directors: Ernst Marischka
Writers: Ernst Marischka
Tags: husband wife relationship, hungary, mountain, homeland, bavaria, germany, alpine hut, bad mother-in-law, coronation, harassment, alp, tyrol, pregnancy, biography, hiking, historical figure, royalty, empress, period drama, royal court, habsburger, empress elisabeth of austria
Lust for Life
“Lust for Life” is a captivating movie released in 1956 that tells the story of Vincent van Gogh, a talented Dutch painter struggling with mental health issues and the fear of failure. With an incredible cast including Kirk Douglas, Anthony Quinn, and James Donald, the film takes us on a journey through Van Gogh’s life as he seeks inspiration in France and encounters the volatile painter Paul Gauguin. It’s a gripping portrayal of an intense and imaginative artist, showcasing the highs and lows of his tormented existence.
The King and I
“The King and I” is a captivating 1956 movie starring Deborah Kerr and Yul Brynner. Set in 19th-century Siam, it tells the story of a widowed Welsh mother, Anna Loenowens, who becomes a governess to the wives and children of the stubborn King Mongkut. As Anna clashes with the King while teaching his family about English language and customs, she also rushes to organize a party for European diplomats, hoping to change their opinions about the King. With a stellar cast and a release date of June 29, 1956, this film is a delightful blend of cultural clashes, romance, and diplomacy.
Cast: Deborah Kerr (Anna Leonowens) , Yul Brynner (King Mongkut of Siam) , Rita Moreno (Tuptim) , Martin Benson (Kralahome) , Terry Saunders (Lady Thiang) , Rex Thompson (Louis Leonowens) , Patrick Adiarte (Prince Chulalongkorn) , Alan Mowbray (Sir John Hay) , Carlos Rivas (Lun Tha) , Geoffrey Toone (Sir Edward Ramsay) , Charles Irwin (Capt. Orton (uncredited)) , Marni Nixon (Anna Leonowens (singing voice) (uncredited)) , Evelyn Rudie (Royal Child (uncredited))
Directors: Walter Lang
Writers: Ernest Lehman, Oscar Hammerstein II, Margaret Landon
Tags: temple, prime minister, letter, bangkok, thailand, palace, widow, musical, buddha, polygamy, based on play or musical, misunderstanding, single mother, tutor, chopsticks, chakri dynasty, school teacher, barge, sailing ship, pagoda, consort, dowry, malaria, conjoined twins, siam
The Bad Seed
“The Bad Seed” is a gripping 1956 movie that tells the story of Rhoda, a seemingly innocent and adorable little girl with a dark secret. As her parents and their landlady shower her with love and gifts, Rhoda’s selfish tendencies and penchant for accumulating stolen items become apparent. When a schoolmate mysteriously dies, her mother’s denial is shattered, leading to a thrilling unraveling of the truth. Starring Nancy Kelly, Patty McCormack, and Henry Jones, this suspenseful film will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Moby Dick
“Moby Dick” is a thrilling adventure film released in 1956, starring Gregory Peck, Richard Basehart, and Leo Genn. Set in 1841, it follows the story of young Ishmael who joins the whaling ship Pequod, led by the strict Captain Ahab. Ahab’s relentless pursuit of the great white whale, Moby Dick, driven by his desire for revenge after losing his leg to the creature, takes the crew on a dangerous and gripping journey.
Written on the Wind
“Written on the Wind” is a riveting drama set in 1950s Texas, which follows the intertwined lives of the wealthy Hadley family. When a geologist named Mitch falls in love with Kyle’s wife, Lucy, a series of events is set in motion, leading to jealousy, murder accusations, and scandal. Starring an impressive cast including Rock Hudson, Lauren Bacall, and Robert Stack, this film takes you on a thrilling journey of love, betrayal, and dark family secrets. Released in 1956, it was among the 20 best voted movies of that year.
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