Best Movies Starring Ruth Gordon, Estelle Parsons, Sandy Dennis, Shelley Winters, and Maggie Gyllenhaal

Looking for some standout performances by exceptional actresses? Ruth Gordon, Estelle Parsons, Sandy Dennis, Shelley Winters, and Maggie Gyllenhaal have delivered unforgettable roles. Discover their best movies below!

Classic Dramas and Thrillers

Ruth Gordon

1. Rosemary’s Baby (1968) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Gordon won an Oscar for her role as a sinister neighbor in this chilling horror classic about a pregnant woman and her mysterious circumstances.

1. Harold and Maude (1971) – PG – IMDb: 8.0

• Gordon shines as the eccentric and vibrant Maude in this unique dark comedy about an unlikely romance.

1. The Great Race (1965) – G – IMDb: 7.5

• Gordon’s role in this zany comedy adds to the film’s charm with her comedic timing and flair.

1. The Hot Rock (1972) – PG – IMDb: 7.0

• In this comedic heist film, Gordon delivers a memorable performance as part of a quirky team of thieves.

1. The Carey Treatment (1972) – PG – IMDb: 6.8

• Gordon plays a crucial role in this crime thriller about a doctor uncovering a medical conspiracy.

Estelle Parsons

1. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) – R – IMDb: 7.9

• Parsons earned an Oscar for her portrayal of Bonnie Parker’s mother in this gritty film about the infamous criminal duo.

1. Rachel, Rachel (1968) – PG – IMDb: 7.5

• Parsons delivers a compelling performance in this drama about a lonely woman seeking fulfillment.

1. The Birds (1963) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.7

• In Hitchcock’s suspenseful classic, Parsons’ role adds to the tension of a town under siege by aggressive birds.

1. I Never Sang for My Father (1970) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• Parsons plays a pivotal role in this touching family drama about a strained father-son relationship.

1. The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984) – G – IMDb: 6.9

• Parsons’ comedic role in this family-friendly musical comedy adds a delightful touch to the beloved Muppet franchise.

Thought-Provoking Dramas and Comedies

Sandy Dennis

1. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Dennis won an Oscar for her role as a young, troubled woman in this intense drama about a dysfunctional married couple.

1. The Chase (1966) – NR – IMDb: 7.0

• Dennis stars in this drama about a fugitive’s return to his hometown, adding depth to the tense storyline.

1. Up the Down Staircase (1967) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• Dennis shines as a teacher in this poignant drama about the challenges of working in an inner-city school.

1. The Four Seasons (1981) – PG – IMDb: 6.8

• Dennis plays a supporting role in this comedy about a group of friends navigating life’s ups and downs.

1. Play It Again, Sam (1972) – PG – IMDb: 7.5

• Dennis brings humor and charm to this comedy about a man who is guided by the spirit of Humphrey Bogart.

Shelley Winters

1. A Place in the Sun (1951) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Winters won an Oscar for her role as a struggling woman caught in a love triangle in this classic drama.

1. The Diary of Anne Frank (1959) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Winters portrays an important character in this moving adaptation of the young Holocaust victim’s diary.

1. Lolita (1962) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• Winters brings her unique style to this controversial film based on Nabokov’s novel about an illicit affair.

1. The Poseidon Adventure (1972) – PG – IMDb: 7.1

• Winters stars in this disaster film about a luxury liner capsizing and the struggle for survival.

1. The Night of the Hunter (1955) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Winters plays a pivotal role in this classic film noir about a sinister man and his quest for hidden money.

Modern Dramas and Thrillers

Maggie Gyllenhaal

1. Secretary (2002) – R – IMDb: 7.5

• Gyllenhaal delivers a standout performance in this unique romantic drama about a young woman exploring her sexuality.

1. The Dark Knight (2008) – PG-13 – IMDb: 9.0

• Gyllenhaal steps into the role of Rachel Dawes in this critically acclaimed superhero film, adding depth to the narrative.

1. Sherrybaby (2006) – R – IMDb: 7.2

• Gyllenhaal’s role as a recently released prisoner trying to reconnect with her daughter is both raw and emotional.

1. The Lost Daughter (2021) – R – IMDb: 7.1

• Gyllenhaal stars in this drama about a woman reflecting on her choices as a mother while on vacation.

1. Donnie Darko (2001) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Gyllenhaal’s performance in this cult classic about a troubled teenager is both intriguing and memorable.

Conclusion

From Ruth Gordon’s iconic roles in classic films to Maggie Gyllenhaal’s modern dramas, these actresses have delivered some of cinema’s most memorable performances. Dive into these selections to experience the breadth and depth of their extraordinary talents!