Remember the days when going to the movies meant discovering whole new worlds, not just the same old blockbusters? Hollywood was once home to all kinds of wild genres that, over time, have faded into the background. These forgotten genres aren’t just old films—they’re pieces of history, full of nostalgia, quirky charm, and some real gems we might’ve forgotten about. So, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of those genres that might not be as popular today but were once all the rage.
1. The “Beach Party” Movies
Oh, the 1960s! If you were a teenager back then, you probably spent your summer afternoons watching Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello frolic on the beach in their iconic beach party films. These light-hearted flicks like Beach Party (1963) and Bikini Beach (1964) were full of surfing, catchy tunes, and a whole lot of sunshine. They were the epitome of youthful fun, but today, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything quite like them.
2. The “Giant Monster” Flicks
Before Godzilla was a global franchise, there was a slew of monster movies in the 1950s and ’60s, where oversized creatures—think giant ants, radioactive spiders, and massive lizards—terrorized small towns. Movies like Them! (1954) and Tarantula (1955) captivated audiences with their mix of science fiction, horror, and sheer spectacle. These films were a perfect reflection of the Cold War anxiety, but they seem to have lost their roar in recent decades.
3. The “Exploitation” Movies
The 1970s were a golden age for exploitation films. These movies were designed to push boundaries, often dealing with controversial or taboo subjects. Titles like Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! (1965) and The Big Doll House (1971) embraced shock value, featuring fast cars, absurd outfits, and over-the-top violence. They were low-budget but highly entertaining, designed to stir up reactions rather than win Oscars.
4. The “Rock and Roll” Musical
Before the “Jukebox Musical” became a thing, there were films dedicated entirely to the world of rock and roll. Movies like Rock Around the Clock (1956) and The Girl Can’t Help It (1956) featured live performances, youth culture, and the explosion of rock ‘n’ roll on the big screen. They were the soundtrack to the lives of rebellious teens, but these days, the genre’s practically non-existent, with only the occasional tribute to the past.
5. The “Men’s Adventure” Films
Long before Die Hard and Indiana Jones, there were the action-packed, macho films of the 1950s and ’60s, where rugged heroes like Steve Reeves and Kirk Douglas faced off against wild beasts, hostile tribes, or unforgiving landscapes. Films like The Vikings (1958) and Ben-Hur (1959) were filled with epic battles and daring escapes. These films were packed with testosterone, but today’s action heroes are more likely to save the day with high-tech gadgets than by sheer brawn.
6. The “Screwball Comedy”
Remember the days when comedy was witty, fast-paced, and full of zany misunderstandings? Movies like His Girl Friday (1940) and The Awful Truth (1937) defined the screwball comedy genre, where charmingly mismatched couples found themselves in hilarious situations. The sharp dialogue and physical comedy were the highlights, but today’s comedies are more likely to rely on slapstick or stand-up humor, leaving these delightful films in the dust.
7. The “Bard Films”
Before Kenneth Branagh brought Shakespeare back to life in the ’90s, Hollywood had a whole era of films based on the works of the Bard. Productions like A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1935) and Romeo and Juliet (1936) brought Shakespeare’s plays to the big screen, often with lavish sets and some star-studded casts. These films were elegant, if a little dated by today’s standards, but their rich language and timeless themes are unforgettable.
8. The “Nunsploitation” Films
This genre was a strange mix of religious themes and exploitation, and it often featured nuns caught up in all sorts of unholy situations. Films like The Devils (1971) and Sisters of the Devil (1974) were controversial for their provocative and often shocking content, blending religious iconography with horror and sensuality. This genre’s notorious reputation kept it on the fringes of cinema, but it had its moment of fame.
9. The “Cinerama” Spectacle Films
In the 1950s, theaters tried to compete with the growing popularity of television by offering a cinematic experience like no other—Cinerama. This widescreen format allowed audiences to immerse themselves in epic films like How the West Was Won (1962) and The Best of Cinerama (1952). These films were a true spectacle, but the technology never quite caught on, and by the ’60s, it was replaced by other innovations in film.
10. The “Sword and Sandal” Films
This genre, often associated with peplum films, became a staple of 1950s and ’60s cinema, with stories set in ancient times and featuring muscular heroes in togas. Movies like Hercules (1958) and Samson and Delilah (1949) saw Hollywood’s interpretation of mythological tales and ancient history. While it may not be as popular now, there’s still something fun about watching those brawny heroes battle gods and monsters.
11. The “Teen Rebellion” Movies
Before Rebel Without a Cause (1955) became an iconic film of the 1950s, there were countless teen rebellion movies about the trials and tribulations of growing up in a world that didn’t quite understand you. Movies like The Wild One (1953) and Gidget (1959) explored youthful angst, rebellion, and the search for independence. These films captured the essence of post-war youth culture, but they’ve been overshadowed by more contemporary coming-of-age stories.
12. The “Rockumentary”
The 1960s and ’70s were full of documentaries that captured the essence of rock and roll culture. These films weren’t just about concerts—they were about the entire lifestyle. Monterey Pop (1968) and Woodstock (1970) didn’t just film music, they documented a cultural revolution. Today, rock documentaries have moved into more polished, behind-the-scenes looks, leaving the raw energy of these older films behind.
13. The “Mystery Men” Movies
Before The Avengers dominated the box office, there was a subgenre of movies about less-than-super superheroes. Films like The Green Hornet (1966) and The Phantom (1943) introduced audiences to crime-fighting characters who weren’t quite as powerful as Superman but still managed to take on the bad guys. These films had a unique, pulpy charm but seem to have vanished in today’s world of flashy, super-powered heroes.
It’s funny how quickly things change, isn’t it? These genres may not be the talk of the town today, but they were a huge part of the cinematic landscape in their time. What’s your favorite forgotten movie genre from the past?
