Best Movies Featuring Ethel Barrymore, Rosario Dawson, Teresa Wright, Mary Astor, and Jane Darwell

Dive into the best films from legendary actresses Ethel Barrymore, Rosario Dawson, Teresa Wright, Mary Astor, and Jane Darwell. From timeless classics to modern gems, these movies showcase their incredible talent across various genres. Check out their top films and see why they are celebrated in cinema history.

Classic Cinema and Drama

Ethel Barrymore

1. The Paradine Case (1947) – NR – IMDb: 7.4

• Barrymore delivers a compelling performance as a judge in this courtroom drama directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

1. None but the Lonely Heart (1944) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• A poignant drama featuring Barrymore as a concerned mother in a story about family and redemption.

1. The Spiral Staircase (1946) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Barrymore shines in this suspenseful thriller about a mute woman who becomes the target of a serial killer.

1. Dinner at Eight (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• A classic ensemble film with Barrymore in a memorable role, showcasing the drama and humor of a high-society dinner party.

1. Dark Victory (1939) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Barrymore plays a supportive friend in this emotional drama about a woman facing terminal illness.

Rosario Dawson

1. Sin City (2005) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Dawson delivers a standout performance in this stylized neo-noir crime film based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel.

1. Rent (2005) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.0

• A vibrant musical where Dawson stars as a troubled artist in this adaptation of the popular Broadway show.

1. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) – PG – IMDb: 7.3

• Dawson voices a key character in this fun animated film that combines humor and superhero action.

1. Clerks II (2006) – R – IMDb: 7.2

• Dawson plays a major role in this comedy about the ups and downs of working at a convenience store.

1. The Mandalorian (2019-present) – TV-14 – IMDb: 8.8

• Dawson appears as Ahsoka Tano in this critically acclaimed series set in the Star Wars universe.

Classic Drama and Film Noir

Teresa Wright

1. Mrs. Miniver (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• Wright stars as a courageous housewife during World War II, earning her acclaim in this touching drama.

1. The Little Foxes (1941) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• A powerful performance by Wright in this Southern Gothic drama about family greed and betrayal.

1. Shadow of a Doubt (1943) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Wright plays the lead in this suspenseful Hitchcock thriller about a young woman discovering dark secrets about her uncle.

1. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) – NR – IMDb: 8.1

• A poignant post-WWII drama where Wright’s role highlights the struggles of returning veterans and their families.

1. The Men (1950) – NR – IMDb: 7.1

• Wright stars in this film about a paralyzed war veteran, offering a moving portrayal of struggle and resilience.

Mary Astor

1. The Maltese Falcon (1941) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Astor excels as the femme fatale in this classic film noir, a cornerstone of the genre.

1. The Great Lie (1941) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• A dramatic role for Astor in this story of love, deception, and betrayal during World War II.

1. Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Astor plays a warm and loving mother in this charming musical about a family in turn-of-the-century St. Louis.

1. The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• A captivating adventure film where Astor stars opposite Ronald Colman in a story of political intrigue and romance.

1. Across the Pacific (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.0

• Astor is featured in this World War II thriller with Humphrey Bogart, combining suspense and action.

Classic and Family Films

Jane Darwell

1. The Grapes of Wrath (1940) – NR – IMDb: 8.1

• Darwell won an Oscar for her portrayal of Ma Joad in this powerful adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel about the Dust Bowl era.

1. Gone with the Wind (1939) – NR – IMDb: 8.1

• A memorable role as a friendly and supportive character in this epic historical romance set during the American Civil War.

1. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1938) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• Darwell plays a key role in this classic adaptation of Mark Twain’s beloved novel about a young boy’s adventures.

1. Jesse James (1939) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• A Western film featuring Darwell in a supporting role amidst the action-packed story of the infamous outlaw.

1. In Old Chicago (1938) – NR – IMDb: 7.1

• Darwell appears in this historical drama about the great Chicago fire, highlighting her versatility in various film genres.

Conclusion

From classic Hollywood gems to modern favorites, Ethel Barrymore, Rosario Dawson, Teresa Wright, Mary Astor, and Jane Darwell have delivered unforgettable performances. Enjoy exploring these top picks and appreciate the diverse talent these actresses brought to the silver screen!