The 1960s was an era of significant change, not just in politics and social movements, but also in cinema. Filmmakers across the globe pushed boundaries and expanded the visual and thematic language of film. Here are some of the best international movies from that decade, each a testament to the era’s innovation and artistry:

1. “8½” (1963) – Italy

Federico Fellini’s masterpiece is a film about making films. With spellbinding visuals and an autobiographical narrative, “8½” explores the creative struggles of a director. It’s surreal, self-reflective, and timeless.

2. “Breathless” (1960) – France

Jean-Luc Godard’s groundbreaking work helped define the French New Wave movement. “Breathless” is known for its bold visual style and the compelling performances by Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg.

3. “The Battle of Algiers” (1966) – Algeria/Italy

Gillo Pontecorvo’s intense war drama is a politically charged depiction of Algeria’s struggle for independence from France. Shot like a documentary, it retains its power as both cinema and historical record.

4. “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962) – UK

David Lean’s epic about British officer T.E. Lawrence is as vast as the desert settings it captures onscreen. Peter O’Toole stars in this visually stunning saga that won seven Academy Awards.

5. “Persona” (1966) – Sweden

In this psychologically charged cinematic enigma, Ingmar Bergman explores identity through two women who become intertwined to the point of losing their own sense of self.

6. “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (1966) – Italy

Part of Sergio Leone’s famous Dollars Trilogy, this film redefined the Western genre with its story focusing on three gunslingers on a quest for Confederate gold.

7. “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg” (1964) – France

Jacques Demy fused colorful images with Michel Legrand’s memorable music to create this unique sung-through musical that defies conventions while telling a love story.

8. “Woman in the Dunes” (1964) – Japan

Hiroshi Teshigahara directed this allegorical film about an entomologist trapped in a sand pit with a mysterious woman. It’s existential literature on screen with an ethereal score.

9. “Black Orpheus” (1959) – Brazil/France/Italy

Though technically released at the very tail end of the 1950s, Marcel Camus’ vibrant retelling of the Orpheus myth set during Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval maintains its status as one of cinema’s greatest achievements into the 60s.

10. “L’Avventura” (1960) – Italy

Michelangelo Antonioni’s engaging narrative of a woman’s disappearance during a boating trip sparked debates due to its unconventional plot structure and has since been hailed as a landmark in modernist filmmaking.

These films from different corners of the world each left an indelible mark on cinema history through innovative storytelling, stylistic bravura, and profound thematic depth.