When it comes to films, the mid century is often referred to as the “Golden Age of Hollywood.” Not only were there wild advancements in the technological production and distribution of feature films, but the era’s experimentation in story structure, direction, performance and design, continue to be studied and admired by cinephiles today.
Our Atomic Ranch Project House will feature a cinema room (a clever idea in this age of movie theatre closure) and we’ve scouted out Etsy for a variety of prints that pay homage to the iconic films and actors of the mid century.
Atomic Ranch curates the best of Mid Century Modern design to share with our readers. Some of the products you’ll see featured in this story are affiliate links, which means that if you click through and make a purchase, AR will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
So This is Love…
Disney fans young and old will adore this vintage styled print of Walt Disney’s animated classic. It’s an easy way to add magic and charm to your home without pestering your Fairy Godmother.
Once more, we have survived.
This minimalist poster features a production photo of Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 epic Samurai drama. Known as one of the greatest films of all time, it is also the originator of the “assembling the team” plot – now a common trait of action films.
Accept me as I am.
For decor that’s not entirely to the nines, consider a print of the surrealist-introspective-dramatic comedy that is Federico Fellini’s 1963 Italian film. You won’t be “adding chaos to chaos” by displaying this classic poster.
Real Cool
Spielberg is set to release his remake of the 1961 movie musical in December 2021. But Tonight we’re enjoying the original with a print of the classic poster. When you’re a Jet, you stay a Jet.
Astonishing Growth!
This outrageous 1958 science fiction/horror cult classic is widely known amongst classic film fans for being s0-bad-it’s-good. The classic poster is a conversation piece all on it’s own.
The Art of Survival
Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 mistaken identity thriller, is widely hailed as setting the standard for future suspenseful action films. We love this classic poster which features Hitchcock’s iconic profile as a fifth head on Mt. Rushmore.
They’re coming to get you, Barbara!
The launching pad for a developing era of “monster movies,” the Night of the Living Dead’s classic poster has all the glorious gore the controversial 1968 film was known for.
A Real Phony
You make have heard people in New York never get to know their neighbors, but it seems the whole world knows Miss Holly Golightly. This colorful classic poster features Hepburn’s iconic look as the NYC cool girl.
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
This minimalist print of the 1969 comedic western features the dynamic duo played by Paul Newman and Robert Redford. The best boys for all battles, bank robberies and bike rides.
Boards don’t hit back.
This canvas print of Bruce Lee in the 1973 martial arts classic, Enter the Dragon, is a perfect item for any cinema room or home gym. After all, “We forge our bodies in the fire of our will.”
Flattery will get you nowhere. But don’t stop trying.
This poster print of the original 1962 Bond film is perfect for the MCM enthusiast who “believes in living dangerously.”
Turned left at Greenland
This poster print of The Beatles’ comedic film featuring the music of their third album is perfect for fans of both Mid Century music and Mid Century film.
The Master of Suspense
This trio of minimalist posters depicts imagery from a selection of Hitchcock’s best known thrillers. They’re the perfect blend of scary and stylish- much like the films themselves.
They call me Mister Tibbs!
Sidney Poitier is one of the Mid Century’s best loved actors. This silk fabric print of the Academy Award winner depicts his role as the legendary detective, Virgil Tibbs, in the 1967 mystery drama, In the Heat of the Night.
Looking for more MCM arts and culture? Try these 14 romantic Mid Century movies or try these contemporary musical artists that feature throwback sounds.
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