Oscar's Best Picture About 1927-1949 1950-1979 1980-1999 2000-2023



1950's

1950

All The King's Men explores the rise and fall of a charismatic politician, showcasing the complexities of power, corruption, and personal redemption.

1951


All About Eve delves into the competitive world of theater, unraveling the manipulative schemes and ambition of an aspiring actress and the consequences that follow.

1952

An American in Paris tells the story of an American artist in Paris, navigating love and artistic pursuits amidst a backdrop of vibrant musical and dance performances.

1953

The Greatest Show on Earth takes viewers behind the scenes of a traveling circus, showcasing the drama, romance, and spectacle that captivate both performers and audiences.

1954


From Here to Eternity explores the lives of soldiers stationed in Hawaii before the Pearl Harbor attack, delving into themes of love, loyalty, and the harsh realities of war.

1955

On the Waterfront follows the journey of a former boxer turned longshoreman, as he confronts corruption and fights for justice in the gritty world of New York's docks.

1956


Marty portrays the life of a lonely, middle-aged butcher who finds unexpected love, challenging societal norms and highlighting the importance of genuine human connection.

1957


Around the World in 80 Days follows the adventurous journey of Phileas Fogg as he attempts to circumnavigate the globe, encountering various cultures and obstacles along the way.

1958


The Bridge on the River Kwai is a set during World War II, depicting the struggle of British prisoners of war forced to build a bridge for their captors, showcasing themes of honor, duty, and defiance.

1959


Gigi tells the story of a young Parisian girl being groomed for a life as a courtesan, but who ultimately discovers her own path to love and independence.


1960's


1960


Ben-Hur depicts the epic tale of a Jewish prince who survives betrayal and slavery, seeking revenge and redemption in a grand spectacle of chariot races and historical drama..

1961

The Apartment revolves around the life of an office worker who lends his apartment to colleagues for extramarital affairs, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements and personal growth.

1962

West Side Story reimagines Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" in the context of rival street gangs in New York City, exploring themes of love, prejudice, and cultural clashes.

1963


Lawrence of Arabia depicts T.E. Lawrence's epic World War I journey in the Arabian desert, exploring his complex identity, alliances, and the impact of war on individuals and nations.

1964

Tom Jones follows the misadventures of a charming and lustful young man in 18th-century England, navigating social hierarchies and romantic entanglements with humor, wit, and irreverence.

1965

My Fair Lady portrays the transformative journey of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, as she undergoes linguistic refinement under Professor Henry Higgins, exploring themes of class, identity, and love.

1966

The Sound of Music follows Maria, a spirited governess, as she brings joy and music to the von Trapp family amidst the backdrop of pre-World War II Austria, blending romance and resilience.

1967

A Man for All Seasons chronicles Sir Thomas More's moral stand against King Henry VIII's divorce, emphasizing integrity and conscience in the face of political and religious turmoil.

1968

In the Heat of the Night unfolds a murder investigation in a racially charged Southern town, pairing a black detective, Virgil Tibbs, with a white police chief, exploring prejudice and justice.

1969

Oliver tells the tale of an orphan's journey from a workhouse to London's underworld, encountering kindness and treachery, set against the backdrop of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist."


1970's


1970

Midnight Cowboy delves into the gritty New York City life of two marginalized individuals—Joe, a Texas hustler, and Ratso, a sickly conman—forging an unlikely friendship amid hardship and disillusionment.

1971

Patton portrays the controversial yet brilliant World War II General George S. Patton, exploring his military prowess, eccentricities, and the complexities of leadership during a pivotal period in history.

1972

The French Connection follows detectives Popeye and Cloudy as they pursue a narcotics smuggling ring in New York, showcasing intense car chases and gritty police work in this iconic crime thriller.

1973

The Godfather unfolds the saga of the powerful Corleone crime family, led by patriarch Vito Corleone, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of a life in organized crime.

1974

The Sting follows two con artists, Gondorff and Hooker, as they orchestrate an elaborate scheme to avenge their friend's death, weaving a tale of deception and revenge in 1930s Chicago.

1975

The Godfather Part II intertwines the rise of Vito Corleone and his son Michael, juxtaposing their legacies. Expanding the crime saga, it delves into power dynamics, family, and morality.

1976

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest portrays the rebellion of institutionalized patients against oppressive authority led by Randle P. McMurphy, exploring themes of sanity, freedom, and societal norms.

1977

Rocky depicts the underdog story of Rocky Balboa, a struggling boxer given a chance at the title. Themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery unfold in the gritty streets of Philadelphia.

1978

Annie Hall navigates the romantic ups and downs of Alvy Singer and Annie Hall, using innovative storytelling to explore the complexities of love, neuroses, and the search for happiness.

1979

The Deer Hunter follows the profound impact of the Vietnam War on a group of friends from a Pennsylvania steel town, exploring themes of friendship, trauma, and resilience.