Bernardo Bertolucci's The Conformist is undoubtedly one of the greatest films of the 70s and while its complex themes (including fascism, pedophilia and societal hypocrisy) have been discussed at large in the past, it's time we focused on its beauty. Bertolucci, along with cinematographer Vittorio Storaro conjured images that remind us why cinema became the most important art-form of the twentieth century. Contained in each of the frames in this movie are entire manifestos that express all of the ideas in Alberto Moravia's novel, and then some.

Tinged with a unique sense of humor and sensual stylization, these frames make for tableaus that are completely pleasurable to behold, even if nothing in The Conformist is every really "beautiful". If you've watched the movie at home before, you've been missing out on the truly wondrous experience that is to watch it on the big screen. Luckily Film Forum will be screening a new restoration from August 29-September 4, and believe us, you'd be a fool to miss it.

Want further proof?

For tickets to The Conformist visit Film Forum.