All 25 Ethel Barrymore Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Immerse yourself in the fascinating realm of Ethel Barrymore’s films through our extensive compendium. This article provides a captivating glimpse into the remarkable career of this iconic actress, spotlighting her most unforgettable performances and pioneering milestones. Together, we’ll commemorate her unparalleled talent and undeniable influence on the world of cinema.
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1. The Call of Her People (1917)
In the heart of the Gypsy community, the fiery romance between Faro Black’s son Faro and his sweetheart Egypt is on the cusp of becoming official. However, Faro’s father, the formidable Gypsy chief, is incensed by the union, as he believes Egypt is the daughter of affluent Gordon Lindsay — a man determined to reclaim her.
2. Broken Hearts of Hollywood (1926)
“Broken Hearts of Hollywood” introduces us to Virginia Perry, a once-renowned movie star now reduced to playing small, insignificant roles. Haunted by her past, she decides to return to Hollywood and reclaim her glory.
3. Rasputin and the Empress (1932)
In “Rasputin and the Empress” (1932), the sinister and enigmatic Rasputin, played by John Barrymore, looms over the Russian court under the watchful eye of the cunning Prince Felix, portrayed by Lionel Barrymore. A dangerous game of cat and mouse ensues as the prince plots to eliminate the mad monk for the sake of the czar, czarina, and the entirety of Russia.
4. None But the Lonely Heart (1944)
Experience the captivating world of “None But the Lonely Heart, “ a classic drama and romance film released in 1944. Directed by Clifford Odets and featuring an all-star cast including Cary Grant, Ethel Barrymore, and Barry Fitzgerald, the movie follows the story of an itinerant who returns home to assist his ailing mother in running their shop. As the mother’s health deteriorates, both are pushed to the brink of desperation, tempted by crime to make ends meet.
5. The Spiral Staircase (1946)
‘The Spiral Staircase,’ released in 1946 and directed by Robert Siodmak, is a riveting portrayal of suspense and enigma set in the eerie year of 1916. Unfurling the sinister tale of a sinister killer targeting women with afflictions, the movie plunges into the terrifying depths of terror as muted protagonist Helen encounters the chilling presence of this malevolent being. As the plot thickens, the intriguing yet complicated relationship of Helen and Stephen as stepmother and stepson adds another layer of intrigue to the already twisted narrative.
6. The Paradine Case (1947)
From the esteemed mind of Alfred Hitchcock, “The Paradine Case” is a gripping, dramatic tale that follows a London barrister as he passionately defends a woman accused of murder. As he delves deeper into the case, his own integrity is put to the test as he falls dangerously in love with his client, blurring the lines of their professional relationship.
7. Moss Rose (1947)
Moss Rose, a gripping film noir set in the foggy streets of turn-of-the-century London, features a thrilling tale of murder, mystery, and suspense. The story follows a woman as she sets out to solve the enigmatic case of her friend’s mysterious demise.
8. The Farmer’s Daughter (1947)
The Farmer’s Daughter, released in 1947, follows a compelling journey of a young woman leaving her family’s farm to pursue a career in nursing. However, the unexpected turn of events leads her on a path to politics. With strong themes of political satire and comedy, the film weaves together elements of drama, romance, and heartwarming moments.
9. Night Song (1947)
“Night Song” is a captivating drama-romance film released in 1948, directed by John Cromwell. The story centers around a stunning socialite named Barbara and a bitter yet talented composer named John, who is also blind. As fate would have it, the two form a powerful bond, and Barbara decides to take drastic measures to get closer to her enigmatic love interest. Intriguingly, she feigns blindness, mimicking his disability in order to forge a deeper connection with him.
10. Portrait of Jennie (1948)
“Portrait of Jennie” is a captivating drama, fantasy, and mystery film from 1948 directed by William Dieterle. The movie unfolds in Depression-era New York, where an impoverished painter, Eben Adams, played by Joseph Cotten, has a chance encounter with an enigmatic, old-fashioned little girl named Jennie, portrayed by Jennifer Jones. She has an uncanny resemblance to the artist’s muse, sparking his imagination and changing his destiny.
11. Moonrise (1948)
“Moonrise” is a gripping Crime, Drama, and Film-Noir film released in 1948. Directed by Frank Borzage, the movie stars Dane Clark, Gail Russell, and Ethel Barrymore, and has a IMDb rating of 7.0 based on 2945 votes. Set in the USA, “Moonrise” is a passionate exploration of the story of Danny, who is shunned by his schoolmates due to the tragic legacy of his father.
12. The Great Sinner (1949)
“The Great Sinner” is a 1949 drama film directed by Robert Siodmak and based on the novel by René Fülöp-Miller. Gathering the talents of Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, and Melvyn Douglas to star, the movie transports audiences to the 1860s resort town of Wiesbaden, Germany.
13. Pinky (1949)
Pinky is a compelling and timeless drama that explores the complexities of race and love in 1949 America. Set against the backdrop of segregation, this thought-provoking film follows the life of Pinky Johnson, a light-skinned black woman who defies stereotypes and barriers to pursue a life beyond her station.
14. That Midnight Kiss (1949)
In “That Midnight Kiss” (1950), set in Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love becomes a battleground for romance and artistic ambition. When the talented soprano Prudence Budell returns home after five years of studying at elite European music schools, her millionaire grandmother Abigail Trent Budell, played by a distinguished Ethel Barrymore, dreams of nurturing an opera career for her. She arranges for Prudence to perform in an opera company led by the renowned maestro Jose Iturbi and hires the famous tenor Guido Russino Betelli.
15. Kind Lady (1951)
“Kind Lady, “ a charming and suspenseful crime drama from 1951, introduces the enigmatic painter, Harry Springer Elcott, who intrudes into the life of the kind-hearted, elderly art enthusiast, Mary Herries. Directed by the versatile John Sturges and written by Jerry Davis, Edward Chodorov, and Charles Bennett, this exquisite film explores themes of deception, temptation, and the desperate measures a con artist will go to protect his art and achieve success.
16. The Secret of Convict Lake (1951)
“The Secret of Convict Lake, “ a gripping 1951 Western movie, follows the thrilling tale of a notorious convict who breaks free from his prison with a motive to exact revenge on the man who framed him. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters the convict’s future wife — a beautiful woman who captures his heart and makes him question his intentions. Set in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains and amidst an enigmatic log cabin, this movie is filled with suspense and surprises.
17. It’s a Big Country: An American Anthology (1951)
“It’s a Big Country: An American Anthology” is a captivating and diverse movie masterpiece released in 1951. This anthology film, which showcases eight unique episodes of varying quality, boasts contributions from MGM Studios’ most esteemed directors, writers, and actors. The film is narrated by the enigmatic Louis Calhern, offering a distinctive narrative flavor throughout.
18. Just for You (1952)
“Just for You” is a charming 1952 family comedy-drama starring the iconic duo of Bing Crosby and Jane Wyman as Jordan Blake and his children, Barbara and Jerry. This heartwarming film captures the importance of relationships and the bond between family.
19. Deadline — U.S.A. (1952)
In the gritty world of crime reporting, “Deadline — U. S. A. “ follows crusading newspaper editor Ed Hutcheson (Humphrey Bogart) as he races against time to uncover the truth behind gangster Rienzi. With his beloved publication on the brink of being sold, Ed is determined to complete one final, explosive exposé that would save it.
20. The Story of Three Loves (1953)
“The Story of Three Loves” is a captivating anthology film from 1953, expertly directed by Vincente Minnelli and Gottfried Reinhardt, and written by John Collier, Jan Lustig, and George Froeschel. The movie features three distinct, engrossing stories that revolve around the powerful emotion of love, set against the backdrop of Europe and told through the lens of flashbacks.
21. Main Street to Broadway (1953)
Experience the thrilling journey of love and ambition in Main Street to Broadway, a captivating musical-drama released in 1953. Set in the bustling heart of New York City, the film follows the story of a disheartened playwright and a beautiful country girl who share an unexpected connection.
22. Young at Heart (1954)
Prepare to be swept away by the captivating tale of Young at Heart! Set in 1954, this timeless drama, romantic, and musical masterpiece follows the life of the youngest sister in a family of musical prodigies. This whimsical world takes a turn when a delightful composer and a pessimistic music arranger both enter her life separately, making her heart flutter and her mind ponder.
23. Johnny Trouble (1957)
Johnny Trouble, a gripping drama-romance film released in 1957, captivates the audience with its engaging storyline. Starring iconic actors like Ethel Barrymore, Cecil Kellaway, and Stuart Whitman, the movie centers around Katherine Chandler, an apartment house resident who is determined to stay in her home despite it being purchased by the local college for a boy’s dormitory. Refusing to vacate, she believes that her long-lost son, who was a wild boy and disappeared after being expelled from school twenty years prior, will return.
24. That’s Entertainment! (1974)
“That’s Entertainment! “ is a captivating 1974 documentary, produced by the legendary Hollywood studio Metro Goldwyn Mayer, that takes audiences on a magical journey through the studio’s 50-year musical history. This star-studded spectacle features iconic MGM stars of yesteryear, including Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Bing Crosby, who share their favorite moments from the studio’s rich archive of operetta musicals. With a runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes, this delightful film not only showcases the timeless elegance of MGM’s musical legacy but also serves as an entertaining celebration of Hollywood’s golden era.
25. And the Oscar Goes to… (2014)
“And the Oscar Goes to. . “ is a documentary that takes a captivating journey through the fascinating history of the prestigious Academy Awards. The film unravels the stories behind the iconic statuette, offering an insightful look at the people, milestones, and drama that shaped the Oscars.
