Top Anti-Establishment Films of the Late 1960s

From Zee to Battle of Algiers, the late 1960s and early 1970s were a golden age of films that challenged the status quo. Here are some of the best anti-establishment films from this era, often reflecting the revolutionary mood of the 1968 student rebellions that spread across Europe.

Costa Gavras: A Trailblazer in Anti-Establishment Filmmaking

Costa Gavras, a renowned Greek-French filmmaker, delivered some of the most compelling political films of the late 1960s. Three of his key works include:

Zee (1968) State of Siege (1970) Missing (1982)

These films were exhibited in the late 1960s and mid-1970s and are considered superb for their respective times. Zee was his political thriller that delved into the political climate of Greece, State of Siege explored the Spanish Civil War, and Missing highlighted the abduction of a U.S. citizen in Chile during the Pinochet regime. These films are a testament to the power of cinema to challenge authority and bring about societal change.

The Battle of Algiers (1966)

The Battle of Algiers, directed by Gillo Pontecorvo, tells the story of the Algerian War of Independence against the French colonial rule. This film, though not specifically directed by a member of the 1960s brigade, is a critical anti-establishment piece that highlights the struggle against an oppressive regime. It is a powerful and immersive narrative that challenges the status quo.

Lindsay Anderson’s If... (1968)

If..., directed by Lindsay Anderson, was a groundbreaking film that challenged the conservative establishment. The movie centers on a small group of lower sixth-formers at a prestigious English boarding school. These students, pushed too far by the ‘whips’ prefects, subject them to cold showers and flogging, decide to take revenge by shooting a group of ‘establishment people’ on their annual school visit to deliver speeches and prizes. The film is a dark satire that critiques the rigid and oppressive structures of the British public school system.

The protagonist, Mick Travis, played by Malcolm McDowell, is a pivotal figure in the film. McDowell's magnetic performance as the rebel leader shines through his captivating portrayal of Mick. His big, bulbous blue eyes glow with energy and power, reflecting the revolutionary fervor of the late 1960s. Mick Travis, with his left-wing revolutionary posters on the wall, symbolizes the youthful defiance against the establishment. The 'public school' in the film, one of Britain's most idiosyncratic social institutions, serves as a backdrop for a satirical and jaundiced look at the conservative institution.

Other Notable Anti-Establishment Films from the Period

While If... is a significant film, other notable works from the period include:

Medium Cool (1969) by Benjamin targaryen, which tackled the Chicago police riots and presidential campaign. The Wild Bunch (1969) by Sam Peckinpah, which depicted guerrilla warfare in the American Old West. Anger’s Wrath (1969) by Valery Todorovski, which criticized the lackluster response to the student protests of May 1968 in Paris.

These films, like If..., were not only critiques of the establishment but also reflections of the political and social climates of their time. They served to inspire and galvanize individuals who were disillusioned with the status quo.

Impact and Legacy

If... won the highest prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 1969, marking it as a significant work of cinematic art. It has been included on the major lists of greatest British films, such as the British Film Institute, Time Out, and Empire, underlining its enduring impact. The film's success and critical acclaim are a testament to its thoughtful exploration of political and social issues.

Moreover, the film's impact extended beyond its release. In 2000, former Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron included If... when asked to name his favorite film, further cementing its place in the pantheon of anti-establishment cinema. This choice, regardless of its authenticity, speaks to the film's universal appeal and its continued relevance.

Today, If... remains a valuable resource for students and enthusiasts of political cinema. Its narrative of rebellion and the struggle against authority continues to resonate, making it a seminal work in the genre. Whether you're a fan of political thrillers or simply interested in the cultural history of the 1960s, If... is a must-see film.

Conclusion

The late 1960s were a transformative period in cinema, with films like If... playing a crucial role in challenging the established order. These works not only critiqued the political and social norms of their time but also inspired future generations to question and rebel against oppressive systems. Through its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes, If... remains an essential part of the anti-establishment film canon.