Movie nights are a great way to spend time with family. When planning a movie night with older adults, it can be fun to suggest some classic movies. Even if your loved one didn’t see them when they were released, they may remember when they first saw them. And if they haven’t seen these yet, it’s a perfect time to watch. Below, we will offer some suggestions for some classic films to watch as a family. While many of these films are rated G or PG, please keep in mind that rating systems for movies have changed over time, so use discretion when including younger family members in your classic movie nights. Notably, all of these movies also predate the existence of PG-13.
Casablanca (1942) – PG – 1h 42m
“Casablanca” is a classic romance tale featuring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. It features themes of love, sacrifice, and some political intrigue. The movie takes place in French-occupied Morroco during World War II. It is a movie that many others take inspiration from or pay homage to. Many of its most iconic scenes are often recreated in sitcoms or other movies.
Citizen Kane (1941) – PG – 1h 59m
Often lauded as one of the best films ever made, “Citizen Kane” is well-known among film buffs. The film is directed, produced, co-written, and starring Orson Welles. It featured film techniques that were groundbreaking for its time. This classic drama follows a reporter as he delves into the life of the rich and famous Charles Foster Kane (Welles). Through non-linear storytelling and complex character development, viewers learn the meaning of Kane’s last words on his deathbed.
The Wizard of Oz (1939) – G – 1h 42m
A movie that best features the early days of color film, “The Wizard of Oz” is a great rewatch with the returning popularity of “Wicked,” which is based on this classic. This film follows Dorothy (Judy Garland) as she travels the land of Oz. With nostalgic musical numbers and an iconic story, this is a great movie that your older loved one is sure to remember.
West Side Story (1961) – PG – 2h 33m
An adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” “West Side Story” is the tale of rival gangs and cultural clashes in New York City. This musical explores love and prejudice in the immigrant communities of New York. The movie was lauded for its incredible choreography, musical ensemble, and dynamic scenes.
Singin’ in the Rain (1952) – G – 1h 43m
Another musical on our list, “Singin’ in the Rain” was an ode to the transition away from silent films. It is a timeless classic that showcases romance, Hollywood cinema magic, and icons of the day. Overall, a great film to share with your older family members.
The Godfather (1972) – R – 2h 55m
“The Godfather” is the quintessential Mafia movie. This epic film follows Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando), the Don of the Corleone Mafia family. As he brushes with his growing age, he works to transfer his empire to his son, Michael (Al Pacino). Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film is also the first of a trilogy if you want to keep going with the epic tale.
Gone With the Wind (1939) – G – 3h 58m
A movie set in the American South during the end of the Civil War, “Gone with the Wind” is an iconic historical romance. It is important to note that because of its historical setting and romanticization of the South during the Civil War, there is a lot of racial prejudice in the film. The grand scale of its production and the amount of effort that went into the film are evident as you watch. The film features Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara and Clark Gable as Rhett Butler. While it’s the longest movie on our list at almost 4 hours, it is well worth the time.
Double Indemnity (1944) – PG – 1h 47m
This classic movie is one of the most iconic film noir films of all time. A femme fatale (Barbra Stanwyck) lures an insurance salesman (Fred MacMurray) into a murder plot for her husband. This thriller is a perfect example of the Hayes-code cinema style of its decade. With hard-boiled crime center stage, it remains a classic for a reason.
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