Explore the top films featuring classic actors José Ferrer, Broderick Crawford, Ronald Colman, Fredric March, and Ray Milland. From gripping dramas to unforgettable thrillers, these legends of cinema have delivered performances that have stood the test of time. Here’s a curated list of their best movies.
Drama and Thriller
José Ferrer
- Cyrano de Bergerac (1950) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
- Ferrer shines in this adaptation of the classic play as the eloquent and tragic Cyrano, showcasing his powerful performance and depth.
- The Caine Mutiny (1954) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
- Ferrer plays the defense attorney in this gripping courtroom drama about a naval mutiny, delivering a commanding and intense performance.
- Moulin Rouge (1952) – NR – IMDb: 7.6
- In this biographical film, Ferrer portrays the famous artist Toulouse-Lautrec, bringing to life the bohemian spirit of 19th-century Paris.
- The High Commissioner (1968) – NR – IMDb: 6.6
- Ferrer stars as a diplomat caught in a political intrigue, showcasing his versatility in this tense and engaging thriller.
- Rogue Cop (1954) – NR – IMDb: 6.7
- Ferrer plays a tough and conflicted police officer in this gritty crime drama, providing a gripping portrayal of moral ambiguity.
Broderick Crawford
- All the King’s Men (1949) – NR – IMDb: 8.1
- Crawford delivers a powerful performance as a corrupt politician in this drama about political ambition and downfall.
- Highway 301 (1950) – NR – IMDb: 6.6
- Crawford stars as a notorious gangster in this crime drama, offering a memorable performance as a hardened criminal.
- The Mob (1951) – NR – IMDb: 6.6
- In this crime thriller, Crawford plays a detective working undercover to bust a mob ring, adding intensity and authenticity to the role.
- The Street with No Name (1948) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Crawford excels as a ruthless gangster in this film noir, bringing a menacing edge to his portrayal of organized crime.
- Scandal Sheet (1952) – NR – IMDb: 6.6
- Crawford plays a hard-hitting newspaper editor involved in a murder investigation, delivering a compelling performance in this crime drama.
Ronald Colman
- A Tale of Two Cities (1935) – NR – IMDb: 7.7
- Colman stars as Charles Darnay in this adaptation of Dickens’s novel, offering a memorable performance in this classic tale of revolution and sacrifice.
- Lost Horizon (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
- In this fantasy adventure, Colman plays a man who discovers a mystical utopia, showcasing his charm and sophistication in this timeless story.
- The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.4
- Colman shines as a look-alike who must impersonate a king in this swashbuckling adventure, blending romance and intrigue seamlessly.
- Random Harvest (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
- Colman plays a war hero with amnesia in this romantic drama, delivering an emotionally rich performance that highlights his versatility.
- The Light That Failed (1939) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- In this dramatic film, Colman portrays an artist who loses his sight, providing a moving and heartfelt performance.
Horror and Sci-Fi
Fredric March
- Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931) – NR – IMDb: 7.6
- March delivers a chilling dual performance as the titular characters in this classic horror film, showcasing his remarkable acting range.
- The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) – NR – IMDb: 8.1
- In this post-war drama, March plays a returning soldier adjusting to civilian life, delivering a poignant and deeply human performance.
- Inherit the Wind (1960) – NR – IMDb: 8.1
- March stars in this courtroom drama about the Scopes Monkey Trial, providing a compelling portrayal of a defense attorney.
- The Royal Family of Broadway (1930) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- March shines in this early film about a family of actors, blending comedy and drama with his signature charisma.
- The Sign of the Cross (1932) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- In this historical drama, March portrays a Roman official caught in the early Christian persecution, delivering a powerful and dramatic performance.
Ray Milland
- The Lost Weekend (1945) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
- Milland’s role as an alcoholic writer in this intense drama won him an Academy Award and remains a landmark performance in film history.
- Dial M for Murder (1954) – NR – IMDb: 8.2
- Milland plays a scheming husband in this classic Hitchcock thriller, delivering a suspenseful and captivating performance.
- The Big Clock (1948) – NR – IMDb: 7.6
- In this film noir, Milland stars as a man caught up in a murder investigation, offering a compelling portrayal of a man under pressure.
- Champagne (1928) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Milland plays a wealthy playboy in this early film about a woman who fakes a marriage to test her suitor’s loyalty.
- X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes (1963) – NR – IMDb: 6.7
- In this sci-fi thriller, Milland portrays a scientist who develops x-ray vision, leading to a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of obsession.
Conclusion
José Ferrer, Broderick Crawford, Ronald Colman, Fredric March, and Ray Milland have each made indelible marks on cinema with their remarkable performances across various genres. Whether you’re drawn to classic dramas, thrilling mysteries, or timeless adventures, these films showcase the exceptional talent of these legendary actors. Enjoy diving into their best works and appreciating the cinematic artistry they brought to the screen!