What's Your Definition Of A Classic?

[Classic Movie Gal]

So, what's your definition of a classic movie?

Mine is: A classic movie is one that you can watch over and over and it's like you're seeing it for the first time.

For example, whenever I watch It's A Wonderful Life all the funny parts are still funny, all the spooky parts (like when he goes to the graveyard) are still spooky, and the happy ending still makes me feel wonderful. Classic movies never get old.

Let's hear what everyone thinks! ;D

[*~Mrs. Cooper ~*]

To me, a classic movie indicates class (obviously). It goes deeper than just a stupid idea or notion; it has a message -- no matter how silly the plot.
You can learn from their trial and errors and be taught valuable lessons from the characters who are portrayed.
It's something you can watch over and over again (like Katie said) and never grow tired of seeing all the elements you may have missed the first...second or third time.
You can watch it without having the fear of seeing semething perverted or hearing something distasteful; not having to worry about bouncing your eyes or thinking, "what are my parents thinking about this?"
The people hold respect, dignity and actually give meaning to the film.

All around, I find that the classics hold more substance and leave you with a feeling of inspiration to make this world a better place; instead of watching a movie just for the entertainment aspect.

Great thread, Katie -- I love your fresh ideas!

[Ajax]

I agree with the whole something you can watch over and over again. There are still some movies that I have watched a million and one times and still catch something in it I didn't catch the first time.

I think that also my other definition of classic requires that it have a certain age to it, not just the watchability of it, since I do watch some newer things as well.

I think the classics just make you feel good, especially most of those big MGM Musicals! That's something else I also look for in what I think is a classic film.

I'm far past the age of having to worry about what my parents think of films I watch, but my family has always been less restrictive about nudity and sex than most I'm sure, they've always had the reason, "I'd rather my children see two respectable adults loving each other in a mature relationship that to have them watch all sorts of violence and gore." So I guess that stuff just never bothered me anyways.

I kind of like the kitschyness of classic movies, there's just something about the love stories and how simple it seems life was then.