American Film in 1967: A Year of Cultural Reckoning

1967 was a turning point in American cinema, a year when Hollywood both reflected and reshaped the nation’s cultural landscape. We’ll explore four landmark films—The Graduate, Bonnie and Clyde, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and In the Heat of the Night. Through weekly screenings and discussions, we’ll examine how these films challenged social norms, redefined cinematic storytelling, and captured the anxieties and aspirations of a rapidly changing America. Topics include the rise of “New Hollywood,” shifting attitudes toward race, gender, and authority, and the growing generational divide. No prior film knowledge is required—just curiosity about cinema and the world it reflects.