6 60s Blockbuster Movies That Are Painful to Watch Now

The 1960s produced some unforgettable movies, but not all of them have aged well. Despite being popular in their time, some ‘60s blockbusters feel awkward, outdated, or simply hard to sit through today. Here’s a look at six films that don’t hold up quite like they used to.

1. “Cleopatra” (1963)

“Cleopatra” was famous for its grand sets and Elizabeth Taylor’s role as the Egyptian queen. It was one of the most expensive films ever made, but the over-the-top production feels exhausting today. The movie’s lengthy scenes and slow pace make it hard to keep modern viewers engaged.

Despite its impressive look, “Cleopatra” often feels more like a history lesson than an entertaining film. The dialogue is overly dramatic, and its nearly four-hour runtime only adds to the difficulty. What was once an epic now feels like a drawn-out spectacle.

2. “The Sound of Music” (1965)

While beloved by many, “The Sound of Music” can feel too sugary for some today. The musical numbers and Julie Andrews’ charming role as Maria are iconic, but the film’s overly sweet tone can make it hard to watch without rolling your eyes. Its endless optimism can feel a bit much.

The movie is nearly three hours long, which can be tiresome, especially when every scene feels wrapped in cheer. Though it’s a classic, the overly sentimental approach leaves some viewers feeling exhausted rather than entertained.

3. “Doctor Dolittle” (1967)

“Doctor Dolittle” was an ambitious musical with big expectations. While the idea of a man talking to animals was entertaining for its time, the film’s outdated humor and awkward effects make it challenging to enjoy now. The film’s slow pace and long runtime don’t help, either.

Even Rex Harrison’s portrayal of Doctor Dolittle feels stiff by today’s standards, and the humor often falls flat. What was once imaginative now seems overly complicated and drawn out, making it a difficult movie for modern audiences to sit through.

4. “The Green Berets” (1968)

John Wayne starred in “The Green Berets” as an army colonel, but the film’s take on the Vietnam War is widely seen as outdated. It aimed to rally support for the war but ended up feeling too patriotic and one-sided. Today, it comes across as a biased portrayal of a complex conflict.

The film’s simplistic view and lack of critical insight into the war make it uncomfortable for viewers who expect a balanced perspective. It’s a reminder of how differently war films were made back then, with less room for nuance or debate.

5. “Barbarella” (1968)

“Barbarella,” starring Jane Fonda, was meant to be a bold, futuristic adventure. But today, it’s often remembered for its campy visuals and odd storyline. The film’s mix of sci-fi and suggestive themes feels awkward, making it hard for many to take seriously.

While it aimed to push boundaries, “Barbarella” is more cringe-worthy than daring now. The costumes and effects, once cutting-edge, now seem overly exaggerated and strange, making it a challenging watch for those unfamiliar with its campy style.

6. “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967)

“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” broke ground by tackling interracial marriage in a major film. While its intentions were meaningful, the film’s approach can feel outdated today. The characters’ views seem overly simplistic, and the movie’s handling of social issues may not fully connect with modern audiences.

Sidney Poitier and Katharine Hepburn give strong performances, but the film’s serious tone and old-fashioned approach make it a tough watch now. What was once a daring drama feels somewhat heavy-handed today.