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Nostalgic America

Ultimate Movie Quiz: Can You Name These 20 Classic Films?

By Bruce Berns · December 23, 2024

Do you have what it takes to call yourself a true movie buff? From deep-sea adventures to epic space odysseys, Hollywood’s golden era gifted us with some of the most iconic films in cinematic history. In this quiz, we’ve handpicked 20 challenging movie questions that will put your film knowledge to the ultimate test.

Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a dedicated cinephile, these trivia questions span decades of unforgettable performances, groundbreaking special effects, and legendary directors. From Kirk Douglas’s underwater voyages to Clint Eastwood’s urban grit, every question is a journey into cinematic greatness. So, grab your popcorn, sharpen your movie memory, and see if you can correctly identify these timeless classics. Think you're ready for the challenge? Lights, camera, quiz — let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to ace this movie trivia showdown!  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 1 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954), based on Jules Verne’s novel, is a Disney adventure starring Kirk Douglas and James Mason. Captain Nemo (Mason) leads the submarine Nautilus on a journey exploring the ocean’s depths. Its groundbreaking special effects, including the giant squid battle, set new cinematic standards.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 2 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968), directed by Stanley Kubrick, is a visionary exploration of humanity, technology, and space. Its iconic HAL 9000 computer and stunning visuals redefined science fiction. Kubrick’s deliberate pacing and ambiguous ending make it a timeless masterpiece of cinematic art.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 3 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Coogan’s Bluff (1968) stars Clint Eastwood as a tough Arizona deputy sent to New York City to retrieve a fugitive. Blending Western and urban action, the film showcases Eastwood’s grit and charisma, paving the way for his future as an action star in modern settings.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 4 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The Courtship of Eddie’s Father (1963) is a heartwarming comedy-drama starring Glenn Ford as a widowed father navigating single parenthood and romance. Ronny Howard shines as Eddie, his curious and mischievous son. Their tender bond provides emotional depth, making the film a touching family story.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 5 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Dr. No (1962) introduced Sean Connery as James Bond in the first film of the franchise. Tasked with stopping the nefarious Dr. No from disrupting a U.S. space launch, Bond’s wit, charm, and action-packed escapades set the tone for future installments.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 6 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), based on Tennessee Williams’ play, stars Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman as a troubled couple grappling with familial tensions and secrets. The intense drama and powerful performances explore themes of desire, inheritance, and personal truth.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 7 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Five Easy Pieces (1970) stars Jack Nicholson as an alienated oil worker estranged from his wealthy family. The film’s raw, emotional depth and Nicholson’s iconic diner scene, demanding “plain toast,” highlight existential struggles and societal disconnection, making it a landmark of 1970s cinema.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 8 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The French Connection (1971), directed by William Friedkin, stars Gene Hackman as Popeye Doyle, a tough cop pursuing a heroin-smuggling ring. Known for its gritty realism and intense car chase, the film won multiple Oscars, including Best Picture, redefining crime thrillers.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 9 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967) stars Sidney Poitier as a Black man engaged to a white woman, challenging societal norms. Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy deliver heartfelt performances as her parents, grappling with their biases. The film’s progressive themes made it groundbreaking.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 10 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Holiday Inn (1942) is a charming musical starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. Known for introducing the classic song “White Christmas,” the film follows a romantic rivalry set against the backdrop of a themed inn. Its festive charm remains a holiday staple.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 11 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Kelly’s Heroes (1970) is a WWII action-comedy about a group of American soldiers led by Clint Eastwood who plot to steal Nazi gold behind enemy lines. The film’s mix of humor, camaraderie, and tense heist elements make it a unique war movie.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 12 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Duck Soup (1933), starring the Marx Brothers, is a political satire about a fictional country led by the absurd Rufus T. Firefly (Groucho Marx). With rapid-fire jokes and slapstick humor, it remains a classic, showcasing the brothers’ comedic brilliance and anarchic spirit.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 13 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The Seven Year Itch (1955), directed by Billy Wilder, stars Marilyn Monroe as a glamorous neighbor tempting a married man (Tom Ewell) during his wife’s absence. Its iconic scene of Monroe’s dress billowing over a subway grate became a symbol of Hollywood glamour.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 14 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: My Little Chickadee (1940) is a comedy-Western starring Mae West and W.C. Fields. The duo’s sharp wit and comedic chemistry drive the story of a con artist and a brash woman navigating small-town scandals. Their banter makes it a timeless comedy classic.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 15 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The Old Man and the Sea (1958), based on Ernest Hemingway’s novel, stars Spencer Tracy as an aging fisherman battling a giant marlin. The film’s meditative tone and Tracy’s poignant performance capture themes of resilience, struggle, and humanity’s connection to nature.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 16 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The Pink Panther (1963), directed by Blake Edwards, introduced Peter Sellers as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau. Tasked with solving a jewel theft, Clouseau’s antics and Sellers’ comedic genius created an enduring character, blending slapstick humor with clever mystery.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 17 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Boys Town (1938) stars Spencer Tracy as Father Flanagan, a compassionate priest dedicated to helping troubled boys. Mickey Rooney co-stars as one of his toughest cases. The heartfelt drama and uplifting themes of redemption earned widespread acclaim and an Oscar for Tracy.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 18 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: Urban Cowboy (1980), starring John Travolta, explores romance and rivalry in the Texas honky-tonk scene. Featuring iconic mechanical bull-riding and a country music soundtrack, the film captures the grit and glamour of blue-collar life, blending drama with electrifying dance sequences.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 19 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: What’s New Pussycat (1965) is a madcap romantic comedy starring Peter O’Toole and Peter Sellers, with Woody Allen making his screenwriting debut. The film’s zany plot and Tom Jones’ title song encapsulate the playful spirit of 1960s cinema.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 20 Can you name the Movie associated with this image?

ANSWER: The World’s Greatest Lover (1977), written by and starring Gene Wilder, is a comedic homage to silent film icons. Playing a neurotic baker auditioning to become a Hollywood star, Wilder’s quirky humor and heartfelt performance create a charming love letter to classic cinema.  Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.