1970 Hit Film Ranked Among 'Best Movies' of All Time
In 1970, Bernardo Bertolucci released a film that would go on to become one of the most respected works in the history of cinema.
The Conformist has now been ranked among the "300 Best Movies of All Time" on Rotten Tomatoes, serving as a strong reminder of the influence it continues to hold more than five decades later. The website notes the film is acclaimed for its striking visuals and artful cinematography, two qualities that continue to define its reputation.
Set in fascist Italy, the film follows Marcello Clerici, a man so desperate to fit into society that he becomes complicit in political violence. This story gave Bertolucci room to explore conformity, politics and morality in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. The result is not just a political drama, but a character study that keeps growing richer with time.
A major reason the movie has lasted is its visual style. Bertolucci and cinematographer Vittorio Storaro built a world that feels elegant and cold at the same time, using composition, movement and light to reflect the character's inner conflict. Even now, the film is often discussed as one of the clearest examples of how cinematography can shape a movie's emotional and political meaning.
Its acclaim was evident long before this latest ranking. The Conformist earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, with Bertolucci recognized for his script. This helped solidify the film's standing early on, but its real legacy lies in its continued influence on filmmakers and critics alike who admire its style and psychological depth.
The picture never treats conformity as something simple. Instead, it shows how the desire to seem ordinary can become dangerous, giving the story lasting power and keeping it relevant today.
Fifty-six years after its release, The Conformist's bold style and intellectual depth have continued its success, keeping it firmly in the conversation about the greatest films ever made.
Related: 1979 Hit Ranked Among 'Best Movies of All Time'
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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 11:03 PM.