"The Godfather" launched a trilogy that ended up winning nine oscars total. Its gritty, realistic violence and cynical look at the American Dream launched an era of Hollywood that allowed more critical movies to come out during the 70s. It also was important for Italian-Americans on film, turning them from stereotypes into more fully fleshed out characters, showing how movies have the ability to change general attitudes about certain groups of people.
2001: A Space Odyssey
From innovative special effects to the bold silence that reflects the chilling uncaringness of space, "2001: A Space Odyssey" launched a new era of science fiction and has inspired countless filmmakers from George Lucas to Steven Spielberg.
The Wizard of Oz
Beyond the innovation of being one of the first movies in color, "The Wizard of Oz" was a cultural benchmark that dealt with themes such as youth and adulthood, helplessness, and Western Values. It is now the most watched film of all time, largely because of its many reruns on TV, and has continued to be enjoyed by children and adults alike for 80 years.
