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Known as “Hollywood’s Playground,” Palm Springs easily conjures images of lavish living and star-studded vacation homes. And when we got to reading more about the Movie Colony Hotel, we learned that it has played host to many of the entertainment industry’s famous names (including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin).
If you can’t make it out to this mid-century-chic, Palm Springs destination then you can take a little bit of Hollywood’s mid-century elegance home with you. Here’s our list of classic movies with star-studded casts and a touch of West Coast opulence.

Photos courtesy of IMDB
Ocean’s Eleven: Starring several members of the Rat Pack (yes, including Sinatra and Martin), this 1960 classic holds a defining place in the heist genre’s history. Besides, is there anything classier than watching world-class entertainers rob a Las Vegas casino?
The Great Gatsby: In honor of the upcoming Baz Luhrmann remake, we thought we’d call out the original film adaptation of The Great Gatsby, released in 1974. Sure, it’s a little past “mid-century,” but with roaring 20s mansion parties and a hint of classic Robert Redford film style, this Hollywood staple will definitely put you in the upscale spirit.
A Streetcar Named Desire: starring Marlon Brando (arguably one of film’s most iconic stars), the 1951 version of the Pulitzer-Prize-winning stage play is a true picture of Hollywood excellence. Did we mention that it garnered Oscar wins in 3 out of the 4 acting categories the year it was released?
Singin’ in the Rain: Starring (and directed by) Gene Kelly, this musical classic earns a spot on almost everyone’s “50s classics” list. And for good reason; screen this 1952 standby during your movie night, and you’ll find yourself humming along to some quintessential examples of mid-century songwriting.