· movies · 24 min read
All 57 Darren McGavin Movies (in Order)
Dive into the world of Darren McGavin with our roundup of his exceptional movie performances. From chilling horror flicks to heartfelt dramas, this article offers a glimpse into the versatile acting career of the legendary actor.
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1. Kiss and Tell (1945)
Kiss and Tell, ” released in 1945, is a charming comedy that revolves around the mischief of two best friends, 15-year-old Corliss Archer and 17-year-old Mildred Pringle. The duo gets into trouble, resulting in their parents fighting over who is swaying whom. Meanwhile, Mildred and Lenny Archer, Corliss’ brother, decide to elope over a weekend while Lenny is on leave from the army.
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2. A Song to Remember (1945)
A Song to Remember is a captivating and heartfelt biographical drama that explores the life of the extraordinary Polish pianist and composer, Frederic Chopin. Set in the 19th century, the movie delves into the trials and tribulations of Chopin, from his burgeoning talent in music to the complexities of his personal relationships. The film, nominated for 6 Oscars and winning one, is a testament to Chopin’s unwavering passion for his artistry amidst the turmoil of his times.
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3. Queen for a Day (1951)
Queen for a Day” is a nostalgic gem from 1951 that takes viewers on a journey through a series of engaging vignettes. These stories are subtly woven together by the ever-popular radio show of the same name, in which women from all walks of life publicly reveal why they think they deserve to be the ‘Queen for a Day. ’
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4. Summertime (1955)
In the enchanting world of 1950s Italy, Summertime brings a captivating tale of love and longing. American spinster Jane (Katharine Hepburn) embarks on a European adventure, seeking a little romance along the way. Little does she know that her dream would collide with her reality, when she meets the charming yet married Venetian, Paolo (Rossano Brazzi). Their bittersweet connection unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Venice – waltzing among the picturesque murals, gliding along the romantic gondolas, and dazzled by the Murano glass.
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5. The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell (1955)
The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell” is a gripping 1955 biographical drama directed by Otto Preminger. It tells the story of the titular character, General Billy Mitchell, a visionary who publicly calls out the High Command for their negligence of aerial fighting forces.
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6. The Man with the Golden Arm (1955)
The Man with the Golden Arm” (1955) starring Frank Sinatra is an intense drama about Frankie Machine, a card dealer and drummer addicted to heroin. As he faces his true self, Frankie must go through the rigorous process of drug withdrawal in order to conquer his addiction. Alongside his journey, he develops a relationship with a card-hustling woman, Lisa, played by Kim Novak.
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7. Beau James (1957)
In 1957, Beau James: A Biopic of Jimmy Walker’s Life was released, shedding light on an exceptional yet somewhat corrupt figure in New York City’s political scene. Set against the backdrop of the 1920s and 1930s, the film portrays the turbulent and scandalous journey of Jimmy Walker, once the flamboyant Mayor of New York City.
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8. Disneyland ‘59 (1959)
Experience the magic of Disneyland ‘59, a captivating documentary that takes you behind the scenes of a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Join Walt Disney and Art Linkletter as they co-host this live event, marking Disneyland’s fifth anniversary.
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9. Bullet for a Badman (1964)
Bullet for a Badman” is a classic western drama from 1964, starring Audie Murphy and Darren McGavin. The movie follows the lives of two former Texas Rangers, Sam Ward (Murphy) and Logan Keliher (McGavin), who find themselves on opposing sides after Sam turns to a life of crime and Logan marries Sam’s ex-wife.
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10. The Great Sioux Massacre (1965)
Delving into the complexities of history, “The Great Sioux Massacre” is a gripping 1965 drama that revolves around the surprising shift in General George Armstrong Custer’s motivations. Originally an advocate for native-American rights, Custer transforms into a politically-driven man in pursuit of headlines, targeting the Sioux tribe during the 1870s. This movie offers an intriguing perspective on a significant moment in history, promising action, drama, and a poignant examination of the human condition.
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11. The Legend of Jud Starr (1967)
Embark on a thrilling Western adventure with The Legend of Jud Starr (1967). This action-packed classic follows the notorious outlaw, Jud Starr, portrayed by the charismatic Darren McGavin.
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12. The Challenge (1970)
The Challenge, released in 1970, is a riveting action-drama that takes place on a desolate Pacific island jungle. The film stars Darren McGavin, Broderick Crawford, and James Whitmore in their roles as Gallery, a U. S. commando, and Yuro, an enemy commando, whose mission is to capture a crashed U. S. space satellite. To prevent a full-scale war, their nations have agreed to a competition: whoever survives, wins the right to claim the satellite. However, the line between honor and deceit quickly blurs as both sides play dirty to secure victory.
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13. Berlin Affair (1970)
Berlin Affair” is a gripping 1960’s spy suspense drama set in the ever-chaotic Berlin. The story takes you on a thrilling journey through love and loss as one man navigates the labyrinth of intrigue and double-crosses, leaving the audience questioning loyalties and leaving them on the edge of their seats. Directed by David Lowell Rich, this 2-hour thriller delivers a thrilling experience.
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14. Mrs. Pollifax-Spy (1971)
Mrs. Pollifax-Spy is a delightful 1971 adventure-comedy film that follows the journey of a widowed New Jersey woman who becomes an unlikely recruited spy for the CIA. Volunteering for spy duty because she felt disposable after her children grew up, she is assigned a seemingly simple mission - to pick up a book in Mexico City. However, as the plot thickens, it becomes clear that her assignment is far from ordinary.
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15. The Night Stalker (1972)
In “The Night Stalker, ” a fearless Las Vegas newspaper reporter is thrust into an electrifying investigation, as he uncovers terrifying murders committed by a vampire with a chilling reference to Dracula. This gripping horror-mystery film, starring an ensemble of talented actors, takes viewers on a thrilling ride through the dark underbelly of Sin City, as they uncover the vampire’s twisted history and thirst for blood.
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16. 43: The Richard Petty Story (1972)
43: The Richard Petty Story” is a biographical b-movie that delves into the life of the legendary stock car racer Richard Petty. Starring Darren McGavin, Kathie Browne, and Noah Beery Jr. , the film offers a glimpse into the high-octane world of stock car racing and the tumultuous relationship between Petty and his father.
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17. Something Evil (1972)
In the unsettling horror film “Something Evil” (1972), a young couple, Laura and Steve, find themselves face to face with a terrifying unseen presence in their recently acquired farmhouse nestled in rural Pennsylvania. As the haunting force becomes increasingly aggressive, it becomes clear that its ultimate target is the wife, Laura.
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18. Happy Mother’s Day, Love George (1973)
In the 1973 film “Happy Mother’s Day, Love George, ” we follow a teenage drifter as he embarks on a journey to find his long-lost family roots in a small, coastal fishing village in New England. However, his search for answers intertwines him with the village’s mysteries and the dark secrets of its residents. A thrilling, independent mystery film, “Happy Mother’s Day, Love George” explores themes of family, disappearance, and murder, capturing the attention of viewers with its gripping plot.
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19. The Night Strangler (1973)
Dive into the chilling thriller of “The Night Strangler” (1973), directed by Dan Curtis and written by Richard Matheson and Jeffrey Grant Rice. The movie follows a daring reporter who hunts down an ancient alchemist with the ability to kill women for their blood, capturing the attention of authorities nationwide. With a runtime of 1 hour 14 minutes, keep an eye out for stars like Darren McGavin, Jo Ann Pflug, and Simon Oakland.
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20. Kolchak: Crackle of Death (1974)
In the gripping 1974 film “Kolchak: Crackle of Death, ” an intrepid reporter named Carl Kolchak delves into a chilling mystery involving a ghostly arsonist and a menacing Native American spirit. As Kolchak investigates, he uncovers a sinister force haunting a local hospital, leading him on a thrilling journey through the eerie world of the supernatural.
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21. Hay que matar a B. (1974)
Hay que matar a B. ” is a gripping 1974 drama thriller set in a fictional South American country rife with political tensions. The story revolves around a striking labor union that demands the return of a politician, B. , from exile. However, private trucker Pal struggles to make ends meet and becomes a target, leading to a thrilling web of intrigue.
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22. Brinks: The Great Robbery (1976)
Brinks: The Great Robbery” is a gripping drama that retells the unforgettable 1950 heist in the most compelling manner. Set in the bustling city of Boston, the film follows the story of James McNally, a gang member who maintains his silence during police interrogation.
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23. Law and Order (1976)
In the heart of New York City, a compelling tale unfolds through three generations of dedication and duty to the Police Department. Law and Order (1976) brings to life the gritty world of the NYPD, where corruption lurks around every corner, and family bonds are put to the test.
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24. No Deposit, No Return (1976)
Join two resourceful kids during their school-breaking adventure as they hatch a plan to get their plane ticket cash. Set on staying with their wealthy Grandpa, they would rather join their mother on a trip overseas. Facing a dilemma, they conspire with two petty-criminals to fake kidnap them, hoping for a ransom they all can share.
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25. American Reunion (1976)
American Reunion” is a unique documentary from 1976, featuring the life and work of Milton Harrington and Darren McGavin. With a runtime of just one hour and thirty minutes, the film gives viewers an upfront, personal look into the lives of its main subjects. Though there wasn’t an official rating for the movie, it is rated PG, suggesting it aims to be suitable for all ages.
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26. Airport ‘77 (1977)
‘Airport ‘77’ is an action-packed thriller set in 1977, where a hijacked 747 carrying art thieves becomes stranded underwater after a crash into the ocean. With no air or heat, the passengers and criminals must band together to devise a daring rescue plan. ‘Airport ‘77’ stars Jack Lemmon, Lee Grant and Joseph Cotten and was nominated for 2 Oscars.
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27. Hot Lead and Cold Feet (1978)
In the dusty, rough-and-tumble town of Goofy Holler, two bickering twin brothers - Cowboy Bill and Mayor Luke - are determined to possess their inheritance, a dilapidated cow town founded by their father. Amidst this wild western scene, a crooked Mayor is determined to thwart their plans so he can inherit the town himself.
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28. Donovan’s Kid (1979)
In the heart of San Francisco in the late 19th century, two notorious con men, Patrick Donovan (Darren McGavin) and Joe McGinn (Mickey Rooney), join forces to save Donovan’s family from a precarious situation. Set against the backdrop of Victorian California, their daring scheme unfolds as they navigate the treacherous waters of deception and betrayal.
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29. Love for Rent (1979)
Love for Rent, ” released in 1979, is an engaging drama revolving around a young small-town girl’s journey to Los Angeles to visit her Hollywood actress sister. Unbeknownst to her, she discovers her sister’s hidden life as a high-class call girl, navigating the dark underbelly of the glamorous industry. Annette O’Toole, Lisa Eilbacher, and Rhonda Fleming headline the cast in this thought-provoking film, which explores the stark contrast between the American Dream and the harsh realities of human trafficking.
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30. Hangar 18 (1980)
Hangar 18” is a 1980 sci-fi film that takes us on an exhilarating journey into the world of extraterrestrial encounters. The movie is set in the Arizona desert, where a UFO crash occurs due to a catastrophic space collision with a NASA satellite launch. With political reasons at play, the U. S. government tries to cover up the incident and silence all those involved.
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31. A Christmas Story (1983)
A Christmas Story” takes us back to the 1940s, revolving around a tenacious young boy named Ralphie Parker who is on a mission to convince his family and Santa Claus that a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun is the ultimate Christmas gift. As the story unfolds, we delve into Ralphie’s heartwarming and humorous holiday experiences while attempting to get his wish. This comedy-family film is filled with memorable moments, lessons in loyalty, and plenty of laughs that make it the perfect viewing for the holiday season.
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32. The Return of Marcus Welby, M.D. (1984)
In the 1984 television movie “The Return of Marcus Welby, M. D. , ” the beloved character, played by Robert Young, returns to the world of medicine. This time, he’s faced with a number of challenges, including bridging the gap between an old friend who has left the practice of medicine to become a hospital administrator and his son, now a doctor, who is both treating and romancing a woman with kidney issues.
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33. The Natural (1984)
Experience the thrill of the legendary baseball story “The Natural” from 1984, featuring a stellar cast led by Robert Redford. The film follows an unknown middle-aged man who suddenly emerges as a superbly talented baseball player. His almost supernatural abilities propel him to unparalleled heights, captivating audiences and defying the odds. As the dramatic narrative unfolds, unexpected twists and turns ensue, culminating in a series of high-stakes situations, including attempted murder and a formidable villain.
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34. The Baron and the Kid (1984)
The Baron and the Kid” is a compelling drama that follows the journey of William “The Baron” Addington, a former pool prodigy who now dedicates his life to helping others through charity pool games. Along his path, he meets Billy Joe “The Cajun Kid” Stanley, a young and brash pool hustler with immense potential.
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35. My Wicked, Wicked Ways: The Legend of Errol Flynn (1985)
My Wicked, Wicked Ways: The Legend of Errol Flynn” is a gripping 1985 biographical drama that shines a spotlight on the life of the legendary Australian actor, Errol Flynn. Loosely based on Flynn’s autobiography by the same name, the film delves into the life of a film studio icon and brings to life the daring escapades, relationships, and controversies of the larger-than-life actor.
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36. Turk 182 (1985)
Turk 182” is a thrilling 1985 comedy-drama film, directed by Bob Clark, with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. The story revolves around the life of Jimmy Lynch, a young man who discovers a conspiracy regarding his older brother’s fire rescue injury and denial of benefits by the city. The film showcases the intricate brother-brother relationship, as well as themes of vigilantism and falling from a significant height.
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37. Raw Deal (1986)
Raw Deal is a high-octane, action-packed crime thriller featuring a gripping undercover plot. The film centers on Mark Kaminsky, a former FBI agent turned small-town sheriff who agrees to help the FBI chief infiltrate the dangerous Chicago mafia, following the death of the FBI chief’s son at their hands. Kaminsky goes deep undercover, pretending to be Joseph “Joey” P. Brenner, a ruthless enforcer for the mafia.
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38. Flag (1986)
Flag” is a 1986 American comedy film that follows the hapless adventures of a man named Tom who accidentally becomes an international symbol. Tom, played by Tom Isbell, finds himself thrust into the spotlight when his flag design is mistaken for something else entirely. With the help of his friends, played by Darren McGavin and Parley Baer, Tom sets out to set the record straight and reclaim his reputation.
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39. From the Hip (1987)
From the Hip (1987) is a comedy, crime, and drama film that follows the journey of Robin, a newly-minted lawyer with one trial under his belt. He finds himself at the center of an unwinnable murder case, which he is set up for due to his unethical behavior that had tarnished his once-reputable law firm. With his career on the line, Robin must navigate through the high stakes of his profession and confront his inner demons, all while being pursued by a ruthless adversary.
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40. Dead Heat (1988)
Dead Heat is a high-octane, comedic action-horror film released in 1988, featuring beloved stars Treat Williams, Joe Piscopo, and Lindsay Frost. The movie centers around a detective (Williams) who is brought back to life after being killed during an investigation into a series of disturbing corpse resurrections. Paired with his former partner and a mysterious pathologist, the detective must use his limited time before decomposing to bring down the sinister mastermind behind his murder.
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41. The Diamond Trap (1988)
The Diamond Trap, ” released in 1988, is a thrilling crime drama that brings together a skilled cast of characters. Set in the bustling city of New York, the story follows two hardworking police detectives, played by Howard Hesseman and Ed Marinaro, as they embark on a high-stakes mission to thwart a daring jewel heist.
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42. Inherit the Wind (1988)
Inherit the Wind” is a gripping drama based on a real event that took place in the 1920s-era South. The film explores a media frenzy when a liberal lawyer defends a man accused of teaching Darwinism in a time when religion was strongly entrenched in society.
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43. Kojak: It’s Always Something (1990)
New York City’s toughest detective is back on the scene in “Kojak: It’s Always Something” (1990). This thrilling crime drama follows Kojak, portrayed by Telly Savalas, as he unravels a sinister web of corruption within the city’s government. But when a connection is made between a crooked city commissioner and Colombian assassins, Kojak finds himself in hot water.
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44. Captain America (1990)
Set in the heart of America, Captain America (1990) is a thrilling action-adventure film that chronicles the journey of a once-frozen superhero. After being discovered in the ice by the President of the United States, Captain America awakens to face his greatest adversary - The Red Skull.
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45. Child in the Night (1990)
Child in the Night is a gripping psychological drama that delves into the dark and complex world of a child’s trauma and its impact on the people around him. Set in the early 1990s, the movie follows an 8-year-old boy named Ryan who becomes the sole witness to a horrific crime - the murder of his father. Despite the horrendous event, Ryan struggles to remember the critical details that could help the police to catch the perpetrator.
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46. By Dawn’s Early Light (1990)
In the gripping thriller “By Dawn’s Early Light, ” a non-NATO nuclear missile causes global chaos after it detonates in the USSR. A frantic race against time ensues as the US president and a bomber crew must find a way to prevent complete doom. This action-packed drama, featuring strong performances by Powers Boothe, Rebecca De Mornay, and James Earl Jones, explores the struggle to avoid escalation during a delicate and dangerous situation.
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47. Happy Hell Night (1991)
Happy Hell Night, a 1991 horror film directed by Brian Owens, unravels a grisly tale of hazing gone wrong, as an unleashed psychopath rampages through Winfield College. This thrilling, horrifying movie follows a group of coeds who find themselves in a fight for their lives during Hallowe’en celebrations. The film’s intricate plot takes a dark turn as one by one, characters are brutally murdered, leaving the viewer on the edge of their seat.
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48. Perfect Harmony (1991)
Perfect Harmony, ” released in 1991, is a heartwarming coming-of-age drama set within the walls of a private school in the U. S. South. The movie delves into the relationships between the students, focusing on prejudice and hostility within the school choir.
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49. Preminger: Anatomy of a Filmmaker (1991)
Preminger: Anatomy of a Filmmaker” (1991) delves into the life and cinematic journey of iconic producer, director, and actor Otto Preminger. The documentary film showcases significant clips from Preminger’s films, intertwined with interviews from his colleagues. This riveting exploration takes us through the ups and downs of Preminger’s career, touching upon his roots in Vienna, Austria.
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50. Blood and Concrete (1991)
Blood and Concrete is an intriguing 1991 comedy that blends crime and romance elements in a hilariously unpredictable fashion. The film tells the story of a notorious car thief and a punk rocker who unexpectedly fall in love. However, their innocent romance takes an unexpected turn when they find themselves caught in the midst of a murder spree, all related to a powerful aphrodisiac.
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51. Mastergate (1992)
Mastergate” is a witty 1992 comedy film directed by Michael Engler and written by renowned humorist Larry Gelbart. Set in the late 70s, the film is based on a satirical play about the historic Senate Watergate hearings of 1973-74. The movie revolves around a CIA employee who has a chance to rewrite history, but at what cost?
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52. The American Clock (1993)
The American Clock” is a profound and moving drama film released in 1993, directed by Bob Clark and written by Arthur Miller and Frank Galati. Based on the 1930s economic depression, the story unfolds as an upper-class family, represented by John Rubinstein, Mary McDonnell, and Loren Dean, experiences the devastating consequences of the Stock Market crash.
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53. Billy Madison (1995)
Get ready to laugh with the hilariously immature comedy, “Billy Madison”! . Follow the lazy, irresponsible Bill Madison (Adam Sandler) as he gets the shock of his life when his father, who’s grown tired of his son’s immature antics, declares that he’ll only receive his father’s lucrative hotel empire if he repeats grades 1-12. Prepare yourself for a wildly comical educational journey as Billy must find his footing in the classroom, dealing with teachers, bullies, and academic decathlons.
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54. Derby (1995)
Derby, released in 1995, is a heartwarming drama-romance film that captures the essence of the past while delving into the present. The plot centers around Katie, who has returned to the family horse ranch after her father falls ill. As she reacclimates to her old stomping grounds, she reunites with Cass, a man she had a childhood crush on. As the story unfolds, Katie and Cass find themselves entwined in their shared history, ultimately leading to an unlikely romance.
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55. Small Time (1996)
Small Time, ” directed by Jeffrey Reiner, is a dark comedy crime movie released in 1999. Glenn Plummer, Patrick Cupo, and Ernie Reyes Jr. star as a small-time gangster, his unprofessional associates, and a mysterious prostitute, respectively.
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56. The Great Christmas Movies (1998)
The Great Christmas Movies” is a delightful documentary that showcases classic Christmas films, as well-known celebrities share their favorite titles and reminisce about their experiences with these heartwarming movies. Featuring film clips and interviews with stars like Tim Allen, Richard Attenborough, and Lionel Barrymore, this holiday special is a must-watch for all Christmas movie enthusiasts.
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57. The Ghouls (2003)
Delve into the chilling world of “The Ghouls, ” a horror film set in 2003, directed by Chad Ferrin and starring a talented cast led by Timothy Muskatell, Trent Haaga, and Tina Birchfield. The movie tells the story of Eric Hayes, a ruthless video vulture always on the lookout for shocking footage to sell to the highest bidder.
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