Cinema has long been a medium that helps people connect, especially over generational gaps. Some of your grandparents’ favorite movies can become annual watch traditions, whether it’s the Christmastime magic of “It’s a Wonderful Life” or another film that carries special significance.
The next time you’re visiting with your grandfather, a movie could be a great way to spend some time — bonding over popcorn and a shared story, whether you’ve both seen it or you’re new to the plot.
Note: If your grandfather is dealing with Alzheimer’s, dementia or memory loss, consider movies that aren’t too scary or sad. However, films in general can be excellent for those with memory loss, as vintage movies can be particularly effective at producing nostalgia — and could be a great conversation starter for you both.
Whether you’re a family caregiver looking for a new way to spend the evening or are visiting someone living at Christian Health Care Center, here are five suggestions for legendary films you both may enjoy:
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966) – The famous squinting of Clint Eastwood’s “Man with No Name” Western character is immortalized here in Sergio Leone’s iconic spaghetti Western. The film pits Eastwood against Lee Van Cleef and Eli Wallach as three gunslingers trying to out-do each other and lay claim to a buried stash of Confederate gold during the Civil War. If your grandfather loves Westerns, he probably loves this movie.
The Great Escape (1963) – This epic war movie, starring Steve McQueen, James Garner and Charles Bronson, is about the dramatic escape of British prisoners of war from a German camp during World War II. It’s a film filled with action, including some iconic motorcycle chases and stunts.
Frankenstein (1931) – Perhaps the most iconic monster movie ever made, the original black and white film version of Mary Shelley’s novel stars Boris Karloff as Doctor Frankenstein’s monster. No matter what decade your grandfather grew up in, there’s a decent chance he saw this movie in a theater or drive-in growing up.
Spartacus (1960) – Featuring Kirk Douglas in one of his most famous roles, Stanley Kubrick’s epic drama tells the story of Spartacus, a Thracian slave who leads a revolt against the Roman Empire. This is classic Golden Age cinema at its finest.
Rear Window (1954) – Often considered one of the best films ever made, Alfred Hitchcock’s mystery thriller has it all: suspense, Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelly. The movie finds Stewart’s character, a professional photographer, holed up in his apartment with a broken leg and a curiosity about the neighbors in the apartment building across from his. One night, he observes events that make him think a murder has occurred, and he knows the culprit. Or does he?
These are just a few suggestions, of course, and there’s no limit to the genres and films your own grandfather may enjoy. So, the next time you visit your grandfather, crank up the popcorn maker, dim the lights, and take in a movie!