Nostalgic America
Most Film Buffs Can’t Name These Films Based On These Images
By Bruce Berns · November 6, 2024
From the steamy jungles of The African Queen to the gritty union battles of Norma Rae, these ten iconic films represent the pinnacle of American filmmaking across three decades. Each scene captures a moment that has become eternally etched in movie history, featuring legendary performances from stars like Humphrey Bogart, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sally Field.
Whether you're a seasoned cinephile or a casual film fan, this quiz celebrates the artistry, drama, and lasting impact of classic Hollywood's greatest achievements. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 1 -
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: The African Queen (1951)
Set during World War I, The African Queen follows the unlikely alliance of Charlie Allnut, a gruff Canadian boat captain, and Rose Sayer, a refined English missionary. When Rose's brother dies following a German attack in Africa, she persuades Charlie to help her navigate the dangerous river and retaliate by attacking a German gunboat. Their journey through rapids, dangerous waters, and close brushes with enemy forces leads to unexpected romance. Directed by John Huston and starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart (who won an Oscar for his role), the film is a classic tale of adventure and resilience. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 2
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - Angels with Dirty Faces (1938)
This 1938 crime drama, directed by Michael Curtiz, stars James Cagney as Rocky Sullivan, a hardened criminal, and Pat O'Brien as Jerry Connolly, a priest. Friends since childhood, Rocky takes a dark path into crime, while Jerry becomes a moral guide for local troubled youth. When Rocky returns to the neighborhood, he influences young delinquents with his tough reputation, forcing Jerry to confront him. The story explores themes of redemption and morality, leading to a haunting conclusion. Cagney’s gritty performance earned him an Oscar nomination, and the film remains a powerful classic of the gangster genre. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 3
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - Casablanca (1942)
Casablanca is an iconic World War II romance directed by Michael Curtiz, centered around Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), a weary American nightclub owner in Casablanca, Morocco. His world is upturned when his former lover, Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman), appears with her husband, a prominent resistance leader. Torn between love and duty, Rick must decide whether to help the couple escape from Nazi-controlled territory. The film's memorable lines, compelling plot, and timeless theme of sacrifice make it a celebrated classic. Casablanca won three Oscars, including Best Picture, and remains beloved for its unforgettable characters and poignant story. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 4
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - Play Misty for Me (1971)
Clint Eastwood's directorial debut, Play Misty for Me, is a psychological thriller about obsession. Eastwood stars as Dave Garver, a radio DJ who enjoys a casual romance with Evelyn Draper (Jessica Walter). However, Evelyn’s infatuation with Dave quickly spirals into obsession, and her violent, erratic behavior escalates when he tries to end things. Set against the backdrop of the California coast, the suspense builds as Dave struggles to escape Evelyn’s grip. This film is notable for its intense portrayal of stalking and psychological manipulation, establishing Eastwood as a talented director in addition to a prominent actor. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 5
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Based on Ken Kesey's novel, this 1975 film follows Randle McMurphy (Jack Nicholson), a rebellious convict who feigns mental illness to avoid prison, ending up in a mental institution. There, he confronts the oppressive rule of Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher), who controls patients with a cold, authoritarian demeanor. McMurphy's defiance inspires his fellow patients, challenging the institution's authority and highlighting themes of freedom and individuality. Directed by Miloš Forman, the film won five major Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and remains a powerful commentary on institutional power and the human spirit. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 6
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - Butterfield 8 (1960)
In Butterfield 8, Elizabeth Taylor stars as Gloria Wandrous, a beautiful, troubled woman navigating love and self-worth in New York City. Gloria, who works as a socialite and occasional escort, becomes romantically involved with Weston Liggett (Laurence Harvey), a wealthy but married man. As their affair deepens, Gloria grapples with the complex realities of her choices and desires. Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Gloria earned her an Academy Award, adding depth to this intense drama about identity, love, and societal expectations. The title, drawn from a telephone exchange, underscores the film's portrayal of New York's upscale world. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 7
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - West Side Story (1961)
An adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story tells the tale of two star-crossed lovers, Tony (Richard Beymer) and Maria (Natalie Wood), set against gang rivalry in New York City. Directed by Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise, the story unfolds through vibrant dance and song as the Jets and Sharks battle for dominance. Tony and Maria’s forbidden love intensifies the feud, culminating in tragedy. With memorable choreography and a legendary score by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story won 10 Academy Awards and remains a beloved, groundbreaking musical that blends love and social themes. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 8
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - The Philadelphia Story (1940)
This sophisticated comedy stars Katharine Hepburn as socialite Tracy Lord, whose wedding plans are disrupted by the arrival of her ex-husband Dexter (Cary Grant) and a tabloid journalist (James Stewart). As Tracy navigates these romantic entanglements, she confronts her own perceptions of love, marriage, and identity. Directed by George Cukor, the film’s witty dialogue and dynamic performances make it a quintessential screwball comedy. Stewart won an Oscar for his role, and The Philadelphia Story is celebrated as a charming exploration of class, romance, and self-awareness in high society. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 9
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER - Norma Rae (1979)
Sally Field stars as Norma Rae, a Southern mill worker who becomes a union activist fighting for better working conditions in this Martin Ritt-directed drama. Inspired by the struggles of real-life unionist Crystal Lee Sutton, the film follows Norma as she stands up to exploitative management and mobilizes her fellow workers despite immense resistance. Field’s compelling portrayal of Norma earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, while the film underscores themes of courage, solidarity, and justice in the face of adversity. Norma Rae remains an inspiring tribute to labor rights and resilience. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 10
Can you name the Movie from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.