Explore the standout films of Richard Dreyfuss, Peter Finch, Art Carney, Cliff Robertson, and Lee Marvin. Each actor has left an indelible mark on cinema with their exceptional performances. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic drama, a gripping thriller, or an engaging comedy, this guide highlights the best movies from these iconic actors.
Dramas and Thrillers
Richard Dreyfuss
- Jaws (1975) – PG – IMDb: 8.0
- Dreyfuss plays a marine biologist battling a killer shark, delivering a gripping performance in this suspenseful Spielberg classic.
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) – PG – IMDb: 7.7
- In this sci-fi drama, Dreyfuss portrays a man who experiences extraterrestrial encounters, showcasing his range in this iconic Spielberg film.
- The Goodbye Girl (1977) – PG – IMDb: 7.5
- Dreyfuss won an Oscar for his role as an aspiring actor whose life changes when he falls for a single mother in this charming romantic comedy.
- American Graffiti (1973) – PG – IMDb: 7.6
- Dreyfuss shines as a high school graduate experiencing one last summer of freedom before heading off to college in this nostalgic look at the 1960s.
- Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995) – PG – IMDb: 7.3
- Dreyfuss stars as a high school music teacher whose passion for teaching affects his students’ lives in this heartfelt drama.
Peter Finch
- Network (1976) – R – IMDb: 8.1
- Finch’s Oscar-winning role as a news anchor who goes mad on-air highlights his powerful performance in this biting satirical drama.
- The Nun’s Story (1959) – NR – IMDb: 7.4
- Finch stars alongside Audrey Hepburn in this compelling drama about a young woman’s struggle with her vows and personal desires.
- The Pumpkin Eater (1964) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
- Finch plays a key role in this drama about a woman coping with a troubled marriage, showcasing his talent in a supporting role.
- The Trials of Oscar Wilde (1960) – NR – IMDb: 7.2
- Finch portrays Wilde’s legal adversary in this historical drama about the famous writer’s trials and tribulations.
- The Angry Silence (1960) – NR – IMDb: 7.2
- Finch delivers a strong performance in this British drama about a worker’s moral dilemma during a strike.
Comedies and Dramas
Art Carney
- Harry and Tonto (1974) – PG – IMDb: 7.7
- Carney won an Oscar for his portrayal of an elderly man embarking on a cross-country journey with his cat in this touching and humorous road movie.
- The Late Show (1977) – PG – IMDb: 7.4
- In this quirky detective comedy, Carney plays a retired private eye who teams up with a female counterpart to solve a case.
- Going in Style (1979) – PG – IMDb: 7.1
- Carney stars in this comedy about three elderly men who decide to rob a bank to improve their financial situations.
- The Seven-Ups (1973) – PG – IMDb: 6.7
- Carney plays a key role in this action-packed thriller about a group of undercover cops battling organized crime.
- The Ruling Class (1972) – PG – IMDb: 7.4
- Carney’s performance as a man who believes he’s the reincarnation of Jesus in this dark comedy is both bizarre and captivating.
Cliff Robertson
- Charly (1968) – PG – IMDb: 7.4
- Robertson earned an Oscar for his role as a mentally challenged man who undergoes experimental surgery to gain intelligence.
- PT 109 (1963) – NR – IMDb: 6.9
- Robertson stars as John F. Kennedy in this biographical film about the President’s heroic actions during WWII.
- Three Days of the Condor (1975) – R – IMDb: 7.6
- Robertson plays a shadowy figure in this espionage thriller about a CIA analyst caught in a deadly conspiracy.
- The Best Man (1964) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- Robertson portrays a presidential candidate in this political drama that explores the behind-the-scenes maneuvering of a national election.
- The Honey Pot (1967) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
- Robertson plays a wealthy man in this comedy about a group of schemers vying for his fortune.
Westerns and Action Films
Lee Marvin
- The Dirty Dozen (1967) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
- Marvin leads a group of misfit soldiers on a dangerous mission during WWII in this action-packed and entertaining war film.
- Cat Ballou (1965) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Marvin shines in this comedic Western as both a villain and a comic relief, delivering a memorable dual performance.
- Point Blank (1967) – NR – IMDb: 7.4
- Marvin plays a vengeful gangster in this stylish crime thriller, showcasing his tough-guy persona.
- The Professionals (1966) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.6
- In this Western adventure, Marvin is part of a team hired to rescue a kidnapped woman, blending action with classic Western elements.
- Emperor of the North (1973) – PG – IMDb: 7.4
- Marvin stars in this gritty film about a group of hobos fighting against a ruthless conductor in the Great Depression.
Conclusion
From Richard Dreyfuss’s gripping performances to Lee Marvin’s iconic roles in Westerns, these films showcase the diverse talents of these actors. Whether you’re interested in powerful dramas, thrilling adventures, or classic comedies, these movies offer a range of exceptional cinematic experiences. Enjoy diving into these top picks and appreciating the remarkable work of Richard Dreyfuss, Peter Finch, Art Carney, Cliff Robertson, and Lee Marvin!