Explore the finest films from these remarkable actresses. From Lauren Bacall’s sultry performances to Bette Midler’s musical talents, this list covers must-see movies across various genres. Discover why these films are celebrated and how each actress made her mark in cinema.
Classic Noir and Drama
Lauren Bacall
- To Have and Have Not (1944) – NR – IMDb: 7.7
- Bacall’s smoldering screen presence shines alongside Humphrey Bogart in this iconic film noir.
- Key Largo (1948) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
- Bacall stars in this tense thriller about a group of people trapped in a hotel with dangerous criminals.
- The Big Sleep (1946) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
- Bacall delivers a memorable performance in this classic detective story, co-starring with Bogart.
- Designing Woman (1957) – NR – IMDb: 7.2
- A delightful romantic comedy where Bacall’s elegance and wit shine as a fashion designer.
- How to Marry a Millionaire (1953) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
- Bacall, along with Marilyn Monroe, stars in this fun-filled comedy about three women hunting for wealthy husbands.
Action and Comedy
Lucy Liu
- Charlie’s Angels (2000) – PG-13 – IMDb: 5.5
- Liu kicks butt as one of the Angels in this action-packed film full of style and excitement.
- Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003) – R – IMDb: 8.1
- Liu’s fierce role as O-Ren Ishii showcases her action chops in Quentin Tarantino’s revenge epic.
- Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003) – PG-13 – IMDb: 5.5
- Liu returns for more high-octane action and humor in this sequel.
- Shanghai Noon (2000) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.6
- Liu stars alongside Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson in this action-comedy set in the Wild West.
- The Man with the Iron Fists (2012) – R – IMDb: 5.4
- Liu’s role in this martial arts film offers a blend of action and drama in a visually stunning setting.
Golden Age Drama and Romance
Norma Shearer
- The Divorcee (1930) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
- Shearer shines as a modern woman dealing with the complexities of marriage and divorce.
- Romeo and Juliet (1936) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- Shearer’s portrayal of Juliet in this classic adaptation of Shakespeare’s play is both graceful and tragic.
- Marie Antoinette (1938) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
- Shearer stars in this lush historical drama about the life of the ill-fated queen.
- Strangers May Kiss (1931) – NR – IMDb: 6.7
- A captivating drama where Shearer plays a woman entangled in a complicated love triangle.
- The Barretts of Wimpole Street (1934) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- Shearer stars as poet Elizabeth Barrett in this moving portrayal of love and struggle.
Musical and Comedy
Bette Midler
- Hocus Pocus (1993) – PG – IMDb: 6.9
- Midler’s comedic role as a witch in this Halloween classic has become iconic.
- The Rose (1979) – R – IMDb: 6.8
- Midler delivers a powerful performance as a troubled rock star in this emotional drama.
- Beaches (1988) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.7
- Midler stars in this heartfelt story about lifelong friends and the trials of life.
- Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986) – R – IMDb: 6.6
- A comedy where Midler plays a wealthy woman who befriends a homeless man, showing her versatility and humor.
- For the Boys (1991) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.2
- Midler portrays a singer whose career spans from World War II to the 1980s in this dramatic musical.
Classic TV and Film
Mary Tyler Moore
- The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977) – TV-PG – IMDb: 8.1
- While not a movie, this TV show features Moore in a groundbreaking role as a single working woman in the 1970s.
- Ordinary People (1980) – R – IMDb: 7.8
- Moore gives a stunning dramatic performance in this film about a family dealing with tragedy and trauma.
- Six Weeks (1982) – PG – IMDb: 6.6
- Moore stars as a woman with a terminal illness in this touching drama.
- That Touch of Mink (1962) – NR – IMDb: 6.8
- Moore’s role in this romantic comedy opposite Cary Grant is both charming and delightful.
- Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Moore shines in this musical comedy set in the 1920s, showcasing her comedic and musical talents.
Conclusion
These films highlight the best work of Lauren Bacall, Lucy Liu, Norma Shearer, Bette Midler, and Mary Tyler Moore, showcasing their incredible range and talent. From classic noir and drama to action-packed adventures and heartfelt comedies, these movies are a testament to their remarkable careers. Enjoy exploring these cinematic gems and appreciating the brilliance of these iconic actresses!