Unforgettable Films Starring Marlene Dietrich, Carole Lombard, Jean Arthur, Jean Harlow, and Ginger Rogers

Explore the timeless performances of Marlene Dietrich, Carole Lombard, Jean Arthur, Jean Harlow, and Ginger Rogers. Each actress has left a lasting impression with their remarkable roles. Here’s a guide to their best movies, organized by genre, to help you discover their finest works.

Classic Dramas and Comedies

Marlene Dietrich

1. Desire (1936) – NR – IMDb: 7.1

• Dietrich captivates as a glamorous thief in this pre-war romantic drama with sharp dialogue and exquisite style.

1. The Blue Angel (1930) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Dietrich’s portrayal of a seductive nightclub singer in this German film is both haunting and unforgettable.

1. Morocco (1930) – NR – IMDb: 7.4

• Dietrich’s performance as a cabaret singer who falls for a Foreign Legion officer is both sensual and dramatic.

1. Shanghai Express (1932) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Dietrich dazzles in this exotic adventure as a sultry adventurer on a perilous train journey.

1. Witness for the Prosecution (1957) – NR – IMDb: 8.4

• In this classic courtroom drama, Dietrich plays a key role in a thrilling story with unexpected twists.

Carole Lombard

1. My Man Godfrey (1936) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Lombard shines as a wealthy socialite who hires a “forgotten man” in this witty screwball comedy.

1. To Be or Not to Be (1942) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Lombard’s comedic timing is impeccable in this satirical look at actors in Nazi-occupied Poland.

1. Nothing Sacred (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Lombard plays a woman who fakes a terminal illness for publicity in this sharp and entertaining comedy.

1. Bolero (1934) – NR – IMDb: 6.8

• Lombard stars in this melodrama about a woman’s rise from chorus girl to opera star, full of glamorous and dramatic moments.

1. Hands Across the Table (1935) – NR – IMDb: 7.1

• Lombard plays a manicurist who becomes entangled with a wealthy playboy in this delightful romantic comedy.

Romantic Musicals and Comedies

Jean Arthur

1. Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Arthur stars alongside Gary Cooper in this classic screwball comedy about an innocent man who inherits a fortune.

1. The Talk of the Town (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Arthur’s performance as a woman caught in a romantic and legal entanglement is both charming and sophisticated.

1. Only Angels Have Wings (1939) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Arthur plays a determined woman who supports her aviator husband in this thrilling adventure drama.

1. You Can’t Take It With You (1938) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Arthur shines in this comedy about a quirky family and the young couple trying to navigate their differences.

1. Shining Hour (1938) – NR – IMDb: 7.0

• In this romantic drama, Arthur plays a secretary who finds herself in a love triangle with high stakes.

Jean Harlow

1. Red Dust (1932) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• Harlow’s portrayal of a sultry plantation owner’s mistress in this pre-Code drama is both magnetic and controversial.

1. Dinner at Eight (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Harlow shines in this ensemble film about a high-society dinner party with a cast of colorful characters.

1. Baby Face (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• Harlow plays a woman who uses her beauty to advance her career in this provocative and thrilling film.

1. Libeled Lady (1936) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• In this screwball comedy, Harlow’s role as a scheming socialite leads to plenty of laughs and witty dialogue.

1. Platinum Blonde (1931) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• Harlow’s portrayal of a headstrong woman involved in a love triangle is both entertaining and engaging.

Elegant Musicals and Light-hearted Comedies

Ginger Rogers

1. Swing Time (1936) – NR – IMDb: 7.9

• Rogers stars with Fred Astaire in this iconic musical filled with memorable dance numbers and charming romance.

1. Top Hat (1935) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Another classic with Astaire, Rogers dazzles in this delightful film featuring some of the best dance sequences of their career.

1. The Major and the Minor (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• Rogers stars in this clever comedy about a woman who pretends to be a teenager to get a train ticket.

1. Kitty Foyle (1940) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• In this drama, Rogers plays a working-class woman who navigates love and life with a refreshing honesty.

1. Rafter Romance (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• Rogers’ role as a young woman in a romantic comedy highlights her charm and comedic talent.

Conclusion

From glamorous classics to vibrant comedies and gripping dramas, Marlene Dietrich, Carole Lombard, Jean Arthur, Jean Harlow, and Ginger Rogers have each made an indelible mark on cinema. These films showcase their remarkable talent and are must-watches for anyone interested in classic Hollywood. Enjoy exploring these timeless performances and discover why these actresses remain icons of the silver screen.