Must-Watch Movies Featuring Luise Rainer, Mary McDonnell, Lucille Ball, Laura Dern, and Pauline Collins

Dive into the top films of Luise Rainer, Mary McDonnell, Lucille Ball, Laura Dern, and Pauline Collins. Each of these remarkable actresses has left an indelible mark on cinema with their standout performances. Here are the best movies showcasing their incredible talent.

Classic Dramas and Comedies

Luise Rainer

1. The Great Ziegfeld (1936) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• Rainer won her first Oscar for her role in this biographical film about the legendary Broadway impresario.

1. The Good Earth (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.4

• Rainer’s performance as O-Lan, a Chinese peasant woman, earned her a second Oscar in this epic drama based on the novel by Pearl S. Buck.

1. The Toy Wife (1938) – NR – IMDb: 6.9

• A historical drama featuring Rainer in a captivating story about love and social status.

1. The Emperor’s Candlesticks (1937) – NR – IMDb: 6.9

• A charming adventure film where Rainer’s role adds intrigue and romance.

1. Escapade (1935) – NR – IMDb: 6.7

• A delightful romantic comedy showcasing Rainer’s versatility and charm.

Mary McDonnell

1. Dances with Wolves (1990) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.0

• McDonnell shines as Stands With A Fist in this epic Western about a Civil War soldier who finds a new life among the Lakota Sioux.

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

• She plays the mother in this cult classic, a surreal film exploring themes of time travel and mental health.

1. Independence Day (1996) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.0

• McDonnell stars as the First Lady in this blockbuster sci-fi action film about an alien invasion.

1. Battlestar Galactica (2004–2009) – TV-14 – IMDb: 8.7

• While a TV series, McDonnell’s role as President Laura Roslin is a standout, offering a gripping and complex performance in this sci-fi saga.

1. A Woman of Independent Means (1995) – TV-PG – IMDb: 7.6

• McDonnell excels in this TV movie based on the novel by Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey, portraying a strong and resilient woman navigating life’s challenges.

Lucille Ball

1. I Love Lucy (1951–1957) – TV-G – IMDb: 8.5

• Though a TV show, Ball’s comedic genius as Lucy Ricardo is legendary, making it a must-see for fans of classic television.

1. The Long, Long Trailer (1954) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• A hilarious comedy where Ball stars opposite her real-life husband, Desi Arnaz, in a tale of a couple’s misadventures with a trailer.

1. Yours, Mine and Ours (1968) – NR – IMDb: 6.8

• A family comedy where Ball plays a widow who marries a widower, blending humor and heart in a story about blending families.

1. The Dark Corner (1946) – NR – IMDb: 7.2

• A classic film noir where Ball takes on a dramatic role in a suspenseful story involving crime and deception.

1. Stage Door (1937) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• A film about aspiring actresses in a boarding house, showcasing Ball’s early work in a stellar ensemble cast.

Laura Dern

1. Jurassic Park (1993) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.1

• Dern stars as Dr. Ellie Sattler in this groundbreaking sci-fi adventure about dinosaurs brought back to life.

1. Blue Velvet (1986) – R – IMDb: 7.7

• A dark, enigmatic film where Dern plays a key role in a surreal story about suburban darkness.

1. Marriage Story (2019) – R – IMDb: 7.9

• Dern delivers a powerful performance as a divorce attorney in this critically acclaimed drama.

1. Wild (2014) – R – IMDb: 7.1

• Dern plays the mother of Reese Witherspoon’s character in this touching film about personal recovery and self-discovery.

1. The Fault in Our Stars (2014) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.7

• A heartfelt role as the mother of a cancer patient in this romantic drama based on the bestselling novel.

Pauline Collins

1. Shirley Valentine (1989) – R – IMDb: 7.1

• Collins shines as a middle-aged housewife who finds herself on a journey of self-discovery in this British comedy-drama.

1. Before the Rain (1994) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• A compelling drama where Collins plays a significant role in a film exploring the effects of war and conflict.

1. The Alphabet Murders (1965) – NR – IMDb: 6.8

• A classic mystery film where Collins showcases her versatility in a suspenseful story.

1. The Bargee (1964) – NR – IMDb: 6.7

• A comedy where Collins stars opposite Harry H. Corbett in a humorous tale set on a canal barge.

1. The Father (2020) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.3

• A powerful drama where Collins plays a supporting role in a film about dementia and family dynamics.

Conclusion

These films represent some of the finest work from Luise Rainer, Mary McDonnell, Lucille Ball, Laura Dern, and Pauline Collins. From groundbreaking classics to heartfelt dramas, these movies not only highlight the incredible range of these actors but also offer a variety of genres to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, drama, or thrilling adventure, these selections are sure to provide an entertaining and enriching viewing experience.