The Best Movies Starring Beatrice Straight, Vanessa Redgrave, Lee Grant, Eileen Heckart, and Cloris Leachman

Looking to delve into the exceptional careers of some iconic actresses? Beatrice Straight, Vanessa Redgrave, Lee Grant, Eileen Heckart, and Cloris Leachman each brought their unique talents to the big screen. Check out these standout films to see their best performances!

Drama and Thrillers

Beatrice Straight

1. Network (1976) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Straight won an Oscar for her role as a distraught wife in this sharp satire about media manipulation and corporate greed.

1. The Colbys (1985) – TV-PG – IMDb: 5.2

• In this TV drama series, Straight shines in a recurring role that explores high society and family dynamics.

1. The Front Page (1974) – PG – IMDb: 7.3

• Straight contributes a memorable performance in this sharp comedy about newspaper reporters in a high-stakes environment.

1. The Lady from Shanghai (1947) – NR – IMDb: 7.7

• Straight’s role in this classic film noir adds depth to the thrilling and suspenseful plot.

1. Hush…Hush, Sweet Charlotte (1964) – NR – IMDb: 7.3

• Straight appears in this Gothic horror thriller, adding an intriguing layer to the suspenseful storyline.

Vanessa Redgrave

1. Julia (1977) – PG – IMDb: 7.8

• Redgrave won an Oscar for her role in this powerful drama about political activism and personal sacrifice.

1. The Bostonians (1984) – PG – IMDb: 6.9

• Redgrave excels in this historical drama about the women’s suffrage movement, showcasing her remarkable range.

1. Atonement (2007) – R – IMDb: 7.8

• Redgrave’s role in this romantic war drama adds emotional depth to a story of love and regret.

1. Howards End (1992) – PG – IMDb: 7.6

• Redgrave shines in this adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel, portraying a complex character in this period drama.

1. The Executioner’s Song (1982) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Redgrave’s performance in this TV miniseries adds gravity to the true crime story of a convicted murderer.

Thrillers and Comedies

Lee Grant

1. Chinatown (1974) – R – IMDb: 8.2

• Grant’s role in this classic neo-noir film is both captivating and crucial to the film’s intricate plot.

1. The Landlord (1970) – R – IMDb: 7.1

• Grant’s performance in this dark comedy about racial and class issues is both incisive and thought-provoking.

1. In the Heat of the Night (1967) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Grant plays a significant role in this groundbreaking film about race relations and murder investigation.

1. The Children’s Hour (1961) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Grant’s portrayal of a conflicted character in this drama about false accusations and societal impact is compelling.

1. The Swimmer (1968) – NR – IMDb: 7.6

• Grant contributes a striking performance in this psychological drama about a man’s descent into existential despair.

Eileen Heckart

1. The Bad Seed (1956) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Heckart’s role as a troubled mother in this suspenseful thriller about a murderous child is both gripping and emotional.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) – NR – IMDb: 8.3

• Heckart delivers a memorable performance in this adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel, showcasing her dramatic talent.

1. The Cardinal (1963) – NR – IMDb: 7.0

• Heckart’s role in this religious drama about a Catholic priest’s challenges adds depth and nuance to the story.

1. The Happy Ending (1969) – NR – IMDb: 6.9

• Heckart stars in this drama about a woman seeking fulfillment, highlighting her ability to convey complex emotions.

1. The Children’s Hour (1961) – NR – IMDb: 8.0

• Heckart’s performance in this tense drama about the effects of lies and rumors is both powerful and impactful.

Comedies and Dramas

Cloris Leachman

1. The Last Picture Show (1971) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Leachman won an Oscar for her role in this poignant coming-of-age drama set in a small Texas town.

1. Young Frankenstein (1974) – PG – IMDb: 8.0

• Leachman’s comedic performance in this Mel Brooks classic is both hilarious and memorable.

1. Phyllis (1975) – TV-PG – IMDb: 6.9

• Leachman stars in this TV sitcom as a charming, independent woman adjusting to life post-divorce.

1. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970) – TV-PG – IMDb: 7.8

• Leachman’s role as the eccentric and humorous Phyllis Lindstrom in this TV classic is both iconic and beloved.

1. Beerfest (2006) – R – IMDb: 6.3

• Leachman adds comedic flair to this raucous film about competitive drinking, showcasing her versatile talent.

Conclusion

From intense dramas and thrilling mysteries to heartfelt comedies, the films featuring Beatrice Straight, Vanessa Redgrave, Lee Grant, Eileen Heckart, and Cloris Leachman provide a wide array of performances that continue to captivate audiences. Dive into these classics to experience the rich talents of these remarkable actresses!