Busch Annapolis Library Fall 2024 Classic Film Series: Some Not-So-Conventional Films of the‘50s

We tend to think of the 1950s as a decade defined by stifling conformity, bland entertainments, a focus on strong gender roles and social expectations, and a decade when most Americans trusted their government and mass media. Yet some of the period’s best films gave another view—and opened the door to the more provocative, anti-establishment films to follow in the 1960s. Each film is introduced by area cinephile Ann Glenn with info about the film’s production, director, actors and followed by a Q&A session.

A Face in the Crowd (1957)

Perhaps more relevant today than when first released, this prophetic drama about a cynical manipulator and the people around him from director Elia Kazan showed the dangers of fusing entertainment, politics and the marketplace. Andy Griffith’s amazing performance, three years before his TV success as the sheriff of Mayberry, will astound you. 2hr. 5 mins. Not rated.