The 1960's Part 1: OVERVIEW

Ah, the 1960's. What a decade. After the wonderful 30's, which is my favorite era, the 60's are my next favorite time period. And while I wasn't born during this time frame, thanks to TV, video, books and the internet, the history of the 60's is readily available. So for this month on my blog, I will focus on this fabulous decade of changing times. Film became more daring and bold. TV offered a lot more interesting choices. And some of the biggest stars burst on the scene during this time. Stars such as Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen, Raquel Welch, Sidney Poitier, Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve, Michael Caine, Diana Rigg, Robert Redford, and tons more.

Some notable sensations occurred as well such as the huge spy craze. Fueled by the huge success of the James Bond films (which made Sean Connery a household name), spy adventures popped up on the big and small screens. Such as Matt Helm (with the cool Dean Martin), In Like Flint (James Coburn) and Harry Palmer (played by Michael Caine) at the theaters. And The Avengers (with Diana Rigg as the sexy Emma Peel), I SPY (with Robert Culp and Bill Cosby) and The Man From UNCLE (starring Robert Vaughn). Spies were definitely the top choice back in the 60's.

Musicals became a different animal too, with such hits as West Side Story, My Fair Lady, Funny Girl (ah Irene, there you are) and the huge international smash The Sound Of Music. Musicals became epic in scope and dazzling dance routines with such new stars like Rita Moreno and the always gyrating Ann-Margret.

Horror films took on a whole new life as well once Hitchcock unleashed Psycho. The film which featured an excellent performance by Anthony Perkins as troubled man Norman Bates ushered in a new wave of horror/suspense films like Rosemary's Baby, The Birds, Carnival of Souls and all those vampire/mad scientist flicks from Hammer Studios.

Films became more realistic and violent that the MPAA rating board was formed. And films carrying a R rating would now be commonplace. The blood and sex would flow freely with such films like  Lolita, Bonnie & Clyde, The Wild Bunch, Valley of the Dolls and Bob, Carol, Ted & Alice.

Fashion also became a pivotal player in films and women and minorities made vast leaps with bigger and better roles. And let's not forget the swinging and very cool music. This was just a brief taste of what I will be covering this whole month and I expect to be quite busy. But I know I will have a good time doing it and I hope everyone will enjoy it.

Look for Part 2 within a few days as I will concentrate on the films of the 60's. Stay tuned.