Fasten your seatbelts, cinephiles! We’re about to take a thrilling ride back to 1963, a year that gifted us with an unforgettable array of cinematic gems. From the heart-pounding thrillers to the tear-jerking dramas, 1963 was a year that truly had it all. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be transported back in time as we countdown the top 20 fan-favorite movies of 1963. Whether you’re a seasoned film buff or a curious newbie, this nostalgic journey is sure to stir up memories, ignite debates, and perhaps even introduce you to a few classics you’ve yet to discover. So, without further ado, let’s roll the film reel and dive into a year of cinema that was as diverse as it was groundbreaking. Lights, camera, action!
High and Low
“High and Low” is a gripping 1963 movie that tells the story of a shoe company executive who faces a heart-wrenching dilemma when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped. With an all-star cast including Toshirō Mifune and Tatsuya Nakadai, the film explores the moral conflict of whether to pay the ransom or not. Released on March 1, 1963, this movie is a must-watch for its intense plot and stellar performances.
Cast: Toshirō Mifune (Kingo Gondo) , Tatsuya Nakadai (Chief Detective Tokura) , Kyōko Kagawa (Reiko Gondo) , Tatsuya Mihashi (Kawanishi, Gondo’s secretary) , Isao Kimura (Detective Arai) , Kenjirō Ishiyama (Chief Detective ‘Bos’n’ Taguchi) , Takeshi Katō (Detective Nakao) , Takashi Shimura (Chief of Investigation Section) , Jun Tazaki (Kamiya, National Shoes Publicity Director) , Nobuo Nakamura (Ishimaru, National Shoes Design Department Director) , Yūnosuke Itō (Baba – National Shoes Executive) , Tsutomu Yamazaki (Ginjirô Takeuchi – Medical Intern) , Minoru Chiaki (First Reporter) , Eijirō Tōno (Factory Worker) , Masao Shimizu (Prison Warden) , Yutaka Sada (Aoki – the Chauffeur) , Masahiko Shimazu (Shinichi Aoki) , Toshio Egi (Jun Gondo) , Kōji Mitsui (Second Reporter) , Kyū Sazanka (First Creditor) , Susumu Fujita (Chief of First Investigating Section) , Kamatari Fujiwara (Junkyard Cook) , Yoshio Tsuchiya (Detective Murata) , Kazuo Kitamura (Third Reporter) , Gen Shimizu (Chief Physician)
Directors: Akira Kurosawa
Writers: Akira Kurosawa, Hideo Oguni, Evan Hunter, Ryūzō Kikushima, Eijirô Hisaita
Tags: manager, ransom, kidnapping, blackmail, chauffeur, baby-snatching, police, film noir, shoe, japanese noir, emaciation
8½
“8½” is a captivating film from 1963 that follows the story of Guido Anselmi, a renowned film director who is struggling with creative blockage. In an attempt to find inspiration, he escapes to a luxurious resort, only to be surrounded by a chaotic group of people from his personal and professional life, all urging him to continue working. As Guido navigates their demands, he delves into a world of fantasy, reminiscing about past relationships and his childhood. Starring Marcello Mastroianni, Claudia Cardinale, Anouk Aimée, and other talented actors, this movie offers a thought-provoking exploration of artistic struggles and personal introspection.
Cast: Marcello Mastroianni (Guido Anselmi) , Claudia Cardinale (Claudia) , Anouk Aimée (Luisa Anselmi) , Sandra Milo (Carla) , Rossella Falk (Rossella) , Barbara Steele (Gloria Morin) , Madeleine Lebeau (Madeleine, the French Actress) , Caterina Boratto (Mysterious Lady) , Eddra Gale (La Saraghina) , Guido Alberti (Pace, the Producer) , Mario Conocchia (Conocchia, the Production Manager) , Bruno Agostini (Bruno, the Second Production Secretary) , Cesarino Miceli Picardi (Cesarino, the Production Supervisor) , Jean Rougeul (Carini, the Film Critic) , Mario Pisu (Mario Mezzabotta) , Yvonne Casadei (Jacqueline Bonbon) , Ian Dallas (Maurice, Maya’s Assistant) , Mino Doro (Claudia’s Agent) , Nadia Sanders (Nadine, the Hostess) , Georgia Simmons (Guido’s Grandmother) , Edy Vessel (The Model) , Tito Masini (The Cardinal) , Annie Gorassini (Producer’s Friend) , Rossella Como (Luisa’s Friend) , Mark Herron (Luisa’s Suitor)
Directors: Federico Fellini
Writers: Federico Fellini, Tullio Pinelli, Ennio Flaiano, Brunello Rondi
Tags: individual, scapegoat, adultery, screenplay, cinecittà studios, movie business, depression, suicide attempt, allegory, creative crisis, kurort, difficult childhood, missile, dying and death, unsociability, black and white, extramarital affair, existence
The Great Escape
“The Great Escape” is a thrilling and inspiring movie set during World War II. It tells the incredible true story of a group of Allied prisoners who are relocated to a supposedly escape-proof Nazi camp. Determined to defy the odds, these brave men plan an audacious escape that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With an all-star cast including Steve McQueen, James Garner, and Richard Attenborough, this 1963 classic is a must-watch for any history buff or fan of gripping war dramas.
Cast: Steve McQueen (Hilts ‘The Cooler King’) , James Garner (Hendley ‘The Scrounger’) , Richard Attenborough (Bartlett ‘Big X’) , James Donald (Ramsey ‘The SBO’) , Charles Bronson (Danny ‘Tunnel King’) , Donald Pleasence (Blythe ‘The Forger’) , James Coburn (Sedgwick ‘Manufacturer’) , Hannes Messemer (Von Luger ‘The Kommandant’) , David McCallum (Ashley-Pitt ‘Dispersal’) , Gordon Jackson (MacDonald ‘Intelligence’) , John Leyton (Willie ‘Tunnel King’) , Angus Lennie (Ives ‘The Mole’) , Nigel Stock (Cavendish ‘The Surveyor’) , Robert Graf (Werner ‘The Ferret’) , Jud Taylor (Goff) , Hans Reiser (Herr Kuhn) , Harry Riebauer (Stratwitch) , William Russell (Sorren) , Robert Freitag (Capt. Posen) , Ulrich Beiger (Preissen) , George Mikell (Lt. Dietrich) , Lawrence Montaigne (Haynes (‘Diversions’)) , Robert Desmond (Griffith ‘Tailor’) , Til Kiwe (Frick) , Heinz Weiss (Kramer)
Directors: John Sturges
Writers: James Clavell, Paul Brickhill, W.R. Burnett
Tags: based on novel or book, optimism, switzerland, baseball, famous score, prisoner, shower, world war ii, prisoner of war, claustrophobia, nazi, machinegun, dystopia, attempt to escape, uniform, freedom, epic, based on true story, prison guard, prison escape, tragedy, escape, swastika, barbed wire, solitary confinement, motorcycle, alps mountains, 1940s
Winter Light
“Winter Light” is a thought-provoking Swedish movie from 1963 that tells the story of a pastor who struggles to provide solace to those around him. Set in a small village, the film explores themes of love, despair, and faith as the pastor grapples with his own inner demons. With a talented cast including Gunnar Björnstrand, Ingrid Thulin, and Max von Sydow, this emotionally charged film is a must-watch for those seeking a deep and introspective cinematic experience.
The Leopard
“The Leopard” is a captivating movie set in 1860s Italy, during the unification of the country. It follows the story of Prince Don Fabrizio Salina and his aristocratic family as they navigate the societal changes that threaten their way of life. With a star-studded cast including Burt Lancaster, Claudia Cardinale, and Alain Delon, this film beautifully portrays the struggle between tradition and progress in a time of political upheaval. Released in 1963, it’s no wonder this movie made it to the list of the 20 best voted films of that year.
Cast: Burt Lancaster (Prince Don Fabrizio Salina) , Claudia Cardinale (Angelica Sedara / Bertiana) , Alain Delon (Tancredi Falconeri) , Paolo Stoppa (Don Calogero Sedara) , Rina Morelli (Princess Maria Stella Salina) , Romolo Valli (Father Pirrone) , Terence Hill (Count Cavriaghi) , Pierre Clémenti (Francesco Paolo) , Lucilla Morlacchi (Concetta) , Giuliano Gemma (Garibaldi’s General) , Ida Galli (Carolina) , Ottavia Piccolo (Caterina) , Carlo Valenzano (Paolo) , Brook Fuller (Little Prince) , Anna Maria Bottini (Mademoiselle Dombreuil, the Governess) , Lola Braccini (Donna Margherita) , Marino Masé (Tutor) , Howard Nelson Rubien (Don Diego) , Tina Lattanzi (Cook) , Marcella Rovena (Peasant Woman) , Rina De Liguoro (Princess of Presicce) , Valerio Ruggeri (Colonel) , Giovanni Melisenda (Don Onofrio Rotolo) , Carlo Lolli () , Franco Gulà ()
Directors: Luchino Visconti
Writers: Luchino Visconti, Giuseppe Tomasi Di Lampedusa, Suso Cecchi d’Amico, Massimo Franciosa, Enrico Medioli, Pasquale Festa Campanile
Tags: civil war, sicily, italy, pastor, country estate, monarchy, arranged marriage, ambition, power takeover, political instability, palermo, sicily, bourbon, naples, italy, opportunist, plan, praise, decadence
Charade
“Charade” is a thrilling and mysterious movie set in 1963. It follows Regina Lampert, played by Audrey Hepburn, who falls in love with the charming Peter Joshua, portrayed by Cary Grant, during a ski trip. However, upon returning to Paris, Regina discovers her husband has been murdered, leading her and Peter on a chase to recover stolen money from World War II. With a star-studded cast including Walter Matthau, James Coburn, and George Kennedy, this film promises suspense, romance, and plenty of plot twists.
Cast: Cary Grant (Peter Joshua) , Audrey Hepburn (Regina Lampert) , Walter Matthau (Hamilton Bartholemew) , James Coburn (Tex Panthollow) , George Kennedy (Herman Scobie) , Dominique Minot (Sylvie Gaudel) , Ned Glass (Leopold Gideon) , Jacques Marin (Edouard Grandpierre) , Paul Bonifas (Mr. Felix) , Thomas Chelimsky (Jean-Louis Gaudel) , Marc Arian (Subway Passenger (uncredited)) , Claudine Berg (Maid (uncredited)) , Marcel Bernier (Taxi Driver (uncredited)) , Albert Daumergue (Man in Stamp Market (uncredited)) , Raoul Delfosse (Taxi Driver (uncredited)) , Stanley Donen (Man in Elevator (voice) (uncredited)) , Jean Gold (Writer On Cafe Terrace (uncredited)) , Chantal Goya ((uncredited)) , Clément Harari (German Tourist (uncredited)) , Monte Landis (Master of Ceremonies at Club (uncredited)) , Bernard Musson (Hotel Receptionnist (uncredited)) , Antonio Passalia (Italian Representative at URESCO (uncredited)) , Jacques Préboist (Ice Cream Salesman (uncredited)) , Peter Stone (Man in Elevator / Marine (voice) (uncredited)) , Michel Thomass (Embassy Driver (uncredited))
Directors: Stanley Donen
Writers: Marc Behm, Peter Stone
Tags: paris, france, cia, loss of loved one, age difference, love of one’s life, interpreter, stamp, whodunit, train, alias, hitchcockian, screwball comedy, alps mountains, notre dame cathedral
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
“Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” is a captivating movie from 1963 that features the incredible talents of Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni. Set in three different stories, it explores the lives of three women who cleverly use their sexuality to achieve their desires. With a stellar cast and a release date just in time for the holidays, this film is definitely worth checking out for a glimpse into the intriguing lives of these characters.
The Birds
“The Birds” is a thrilling 1963 movie starring Tippi Hedren, Rod Taylor, and Jessica Tandy. It follows the story of a chic socialite named Melanie Daniels who impulsively follows an eligible attorney to his hometown, only to find herself in the midst of a terrifying bird attack. As the feathered fiends inexplicably turn on the townsfolk of Bodega Bay, chaos ensues, making this film a must-watch for fans of suspense and horror.
Cast: Tippi Hedren (Melanie Daniels) , Rod Taylor (Mitch Brenner) , Jessica Tandy (Lydia Brenner) , Suzanne Pleshette (Annie Hayworth) , Veronica Cartwright (Cathy Brenner) , Ethel Griffies (Mrs. Bundy) , Charles McGraw (Sebastian Sholes) , Ruth McDevitt (Mrs. MacGruder) , Lonny Chapman (Deke Carter) , Joe Mantell (Traveling Salesman at Diner’s Bar) , Doodles Weaver (Fisherman helping with Rental Boat) , Malcolm Atterbury (Deputy Al Malone) , John McGovern (Postal Clerk) , Karl Swenson (Drunken Doomsayer in Diner) , Richard Deacon (Mitch’s City Neighbor) , Elizabeth Wilson (Helen Carter) , Bill Quinn (Sam) , Doreen Lang (Hysterical Mother in Diner) , Alfred Hitchcock (Pet Store Customer (uncredited)) , Morgan Brittany (Brunette Girl at Birthday Party (uncredited)) , Darlene Conley (Waitress (uncredited)) , Betsy Hale (Little Girl (uncredited)) , Dal McKennon (Sam the Cook (uncredited)) , Mike Monteleone (Gas Station Attendant (uncredited)) , Renn Reed (Girl at Birthday Party (uncredited))
Directors: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Daphne du Maurier, Evan Hunter
Tags: pet shop, seclusion, playground, seagull, fireplace, bird attack, socialite, based on short story, practical joke, schoolteacher, lovebird, shopkeeper, unsolved mystery, schoolhouse
The Servant
“The Servant” is a captivating movie from 1963 that tells the story of Hugo Barrett, a diligent servant working for the lazy aristocrat Tony in Chelsea. Things take a dramatic turn when Tony’s girlfriend Susan develops a strong dislike for the efficient employee. To make matters worse, Barrett convinces Tony to hire his sister Vera as a live-in maid, leading to even more complications. Starring Dirk Bogarde, James Fox, and Sarah Miles, this film is a must-watch for its intriguing plot and stellar performances.
The Silence
“The Silence” is a thought-provoking movie set in an unnamed European country on the brink of war. It follows the story of Ester, her sister Anna, and Anna’s young son Johan, as they stay in a nearly empty hotel. The film beautifully captures the growing isolation and communication breakdown among the characters, with Anna’s affair and Johan’s mysterious encounters adding to the tension. Starring Ingrid Thulin, Gunnel Lindblom, and Birger Malmsten, this captivating film was released on September 23, 1963, and is considered one of the best movies of that year.
Irma la Douce
“Irma la Douce” is a delightful comedy set in 1963 Paris, following the adventures of Nester Patou, a naive police officer who accidentally disrupts the corrupt system of the police and pimps union. After losing his job, Nester befriends a charming prostitute named Irma la Douce and comes up with a crazy scheme to keep her from seeing other men. Starring Shirley MacLaine and Jack Lemmon, this movie is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of love and mischief in the red light district of Paris.
Hud
“Hud” is a captivating movie from 1963 that tells the story of a young and ruthless man named Hud Bannon. He lives life on the edge, caring little about the consequences of his actions. The film explores the intense conflict between Hud and his principled father, while his nephew Lon struggles to reconcile his admiration for Hud’s rebellious ways with the realization of his amoral nature. With an incredible cast including Paul Newman, Melvyn Douglas, and Patricia Neal, “Hud” is a gripping portrayal of a winner in a world of takers and the taken.
Black Sabbath
“Black Sabbath” is a chilling horror movie released in 1963 that consists of three spine-tingling tales. In the first story, a woman is tormented by menacing phone calls, while the second follows a family haunted by bloodthirsty vampires. The final tale delves into the havoc wreaked by a deceased medium on the living. Starring Boris Karloff, Mark Damon, Michèle Mercier, and an ensemble cast, this classic film is sure to send shivers down your spine.
The Haunting
“The Haunting” is a chilling horror film released in 1963. It follows Dr. Markway, a researcher determined to prove the existence of ghosts, as he investigates Hill House, a notorious mansion with a dark history of violence and madness. Starring Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, Richard Johnson, and other talented actors, this eerie movie will keep you on the edge of your seat with its spine-tingling atmosphere and haunting storyline.
From Russia with Love
“From Russia with Love” is a thrilling spy film released in 1963 and is the second installment in the James Bond series. In this action-packed movie, Agent 007, played by Sean Connery, takes on the notorious crime organization SPECTRE. Bond’s mission involves protecting a valuable decoding device called the Lektor, while navigating dangerous encounters and relying on his wit to outsmart the enemy. With a captivating storyline and a stellar cast including Daniela Bianchi and Robert Shaw, this movie is a must-watch for fans of espionage and adventure.
Cast: Sean Connery (James Bond) , Daniela Bianchi (Tatiana ‘Tanja’ Romanova) , Pedro Armendáriz (Ali Kerim Bey) , Lotte Lenya (Rosa Klebb) , Robert Shaw (Donald ‘Red’ Grant) , Bernard Lee (M) , Eunice Gayson (Sylvia Trench) , Walter Gotell (Morzeny) , Francis de Wolff (Vavra) , George Pastell (Train Conductor) , Nadja Regin (Kerim’s Mistress) , Lois Maxwell (Miss Moneypenny) , Aliza Gur (Vida) , Martine Beswick (Zora) , Vladek Sheybal (Kronsteen) , Anthony Dawson (Ernst Stavros Blofeld) , Lisa Guiraut (Belly Dancer) , Hasan Ceylan (Bulgarian Agent) , Fred Haggerty (Krilencu) , Neville Jason (Kerim’s Chauffeur) , Peter Bayliss (Benz) , Nusret Ataer (Mehmet) , Peter Brayham (Rhoda) , Desmond Llewelyn (Boothroyd – ‘Q’) , Jan Williams (Masseuse)
Directors: Terence Young
Writers: Ian Fleming, Richard Maibaum, Johanna Harwood
Tags: venice, italy, london, england, england, gypsy, assassination, spy, assassin, based on novel or book, secret mission, secret organization, secret intelligence service, kgb, orient express, zagreb, gondola, phantom, villain, duringcreditsstinger
Cleopatra
“Cleopatra” is a captivating historical drama released in 1963. Starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison, the movie tells the story of Cleopatra’s determination to maintain her throne. After seducing Roman emperor Julius Caesar, she turns her attention to his general, Marc Antony, who vows to seize power. However, Caesar’s successor has different plans, leading to a gripping tale of love, power, and betrayal.
Cast: Elizabeth Taylor (Cleopatra) , Richard Burton (Marcus Antonius) , Rex Harrison (Julius Caesar) , Pamela Brown (High Priestess) , George Cole (Flavius) , Hume Cronyn (Sosigenes) , Cesare Danova (Apollodorus) , Kenneth Haigh (Brutus) , Andrew Keir (Agrippa) , Martin Landau (Rufio) , Roddy McDowall (Octavian – Caesar Augustus) , Robert Stephens (Germanicus) , Francesca Annis (Eiras) , Grégoire Aslan (Pothinus) , Martin Benson (Ramos) , John Doucette (Achillas) , Michael Hordern (Cicero) , John Hoyt (Cassius) , Carroll O’Connor (Casca) , Andrew Faulds (Canidius) , Michael Gwynn (Cimber) , Peter Grant (Palace Guard (uncredited)) , Marne Maitland (Euphranor) , Richard O’Sullivan (Pharaoh Ptolemy XIII) , Gwen Watford (Calpurnia)
Directors: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Writers: Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Sidney Buchman, Ranald MacDougall, Carlo Maria Franzero
Tags: egypt, greece, snake, nile, ancient rome, historical figure, cleopatra, epic, ancient egypt, library of alexandria, alexandria egypt, 1st century bc
It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World
“It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” is a hilarious comedy released in 1963 that follows a group of strangers who stumble upon a dying man after a car crash. The man reveals the location of $350,000 buried in California, setting off a wild and chaotic race among the strangers to claim the prize for themselves. With an all-star cast including Spencer Tracy, Milton Berle, and Ethel Merman, this madcap adventure is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.
Cast: Spencer Tracy (C. G. Culpepper) , Milton Berle (J. Russell Finch) , Sid Caesar (Melville Crump) , Buddy Hackett (Benjy Benjamin) , Ethel Merman (Mrs. Marcus) , Mickey Rooney (Ding ‘Dingy’ Bell) , Dick Shawn (Sylvester Marcus) , Phil Silvers (Otto Meyer) , Terry-Thomas (J. Algernon Hawthorne) , Jonathan Winters (Lennie Pike) , Edie Adams (Monica Crump) , Dorothy Provine (Emeline Marcus-Finch) , Eddie ‘Rochester’ Anderson (Second Cab Driver) , Jim Backus (Tyler Fitzgerald) , Ben Blue (Biplane Pilot) , Joe E. Brown (Union Official) , Alan Carney (Police Sergeant) , Chick Chandler (Detective Outside Chinese Laundromat) , Barrie Chase (Sylvester’s Girlfriend) , Lloyd Corrigan (The Mayor) , William Demarest (Police Chief Aloysius) , Selma Diamond (Ginger Culpepper (voice)) , Andy Devine (Sheriff of Crockett County) , Peter Falk (Third Cab Driver) , Norman Fell (Detective at Grogan’s Crash Site)
Directors: Stanley Kramer
Writers: William Rose, Tania Rose
Tags: competition, prison, california, chase, airplane, national park, treasure hunt, slapstick comedy, money, desert, race, cash
The Pink Panther
“The Pink Panther” is a classic 1963 movie starring David Niven, Peter Sellers, Claudia Cardinale, and more. Set in the beautiful Tyrolean Alps, the film follows Inspector Clouseau as he tries to catch the notorious jewel thief known as The Phantom. Filled with mystery and humor, this movie keeps you guessing until the very end.
Lord of the Flies
“Lord of the Flies” is a gripping movie set during a nuclear war, where a group of schoolboys find themselves stranded on a deserted island with no adults. As they struggle to survive, their society crumbles into chaos, with two leaders emerging – the practical Ralph and the militaristic Jack. This thought-provoking film explores the dark side of human nature and delivers a chilling conclusion. Starring James Aubrey, Tom Chapin, Hugh Edwards, Roger Elwin, and more, it was released on August 13, 1963, and is considered one of the best movies of that year.
Cast: James Aubrey (Ralph) , Tom Chapin (Jack) , Hugh Edwards (Piggy) , Roger Elwin (Roger) , Tom Gaman (Simon) , Roger Allan (Piers) , David Brunjes (Donald) , Peter Davy (Peter) , Kent Fletcher (Percival Wemys Madison) , Nicholas Hammond (Robert) , Christopher Harris (Bill) , Alan Heaps (Neville) , Jonathan Heaps (Howard) , Burnes Hollyman (Douglas) , Andrew Horne (Matthew) , Richard Horne (Lance) , Timothy Horne (Leslie) , Peter Ksiezopolski (Francis) , Anthony McCall-Judson (Maurice) , Malcolm Rodker (Harold) , David St. Clair (George) , Rene Sanfiorenzo Jr. (Charles) , Jeremy Scuse (Rowland) , John Stableford (Digby) , David Surtees (Sam)
Directors: Peter Brook
Writers: William Golding, Peter Brook
Tags: based on novel or book, child murder, survival, teenage boy, deserted island, dead children, south sea island, flogging, degeneration, swine, innocence lost, whipping, asthmatic, aeronautics, rite, faithful adaptation
The Nutty Professor
“The Nutty Professor” is a hilarious 1963 comedy film starring Jerry Lewis as a timid and nearsighted chemistry teacher. When he discovers a magical potion, he transforms into a suave and handsome Romeo, but things get hilariously awkward when the potion starts wearing off at the most embarrassing moments. With a talented cast including Stella Stevens, Del Moore, and Richard Kiel, this movie is a must-watch for a good laugh. Released on June 4, 1963, it’s one of the best-voted movies of that year.
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