· movies · 22 min read
All 53 Joseph Cotten Movies (in Order)
Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey as we delve into the world of Joseph Cotten, a versatile actor known for his captivating performances in various genres. In this roundup article, we’ll be exploring some of Cotten’s most memorable movies, offering insights into his unique talent and unforgettable screen presence. So, grab your popcorn and let’s dive right in!
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1. Citizen Kane (1941)
Citizen Kane” is a groundbreaking 1941 drama and mystery film that enthralls viewers with its innovative storytelling and compelling performances. Directed by Orson Welles, this cinematic masterpiece follows the life of Charles Foster Kane, a publishing tycoon whose mysterious final words, “Rosebud, ” send journalists on a thrilling hunt to uncover the meaning behind them. As the story unfolds, the characters navigate themes of narcissism, materialism, and the complexities of human ambition.
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2. The Magnificent Ambersons (1942)
The Magnificent Ambersons, released in 1942, is an Orson Welles masterpiece set amid the decay of the wealthy Amberson family’s fortune. The film takes a deep dive into the intricate relationship between the family’s young and spoiled heir and his mother. This privileged young man, whose careless actions have dire consequences, finds himself amidst a web of class differences and emotional turmoil.
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3. Shadow of a Doubt (1943)
Shadow of a Doubt, ” directed by the masterful Alfred Hitchcock, is a gripping 1943 thriller that masterfully blends suspense and psychological intrigue. Set in a seemingly idyllic California town, the plot revolves around a young girl, Charley, who is ecstatic when her favorite uncle, played by Joseph Cotten, arrives for a visit. However, as the girl develops a stronger bond with her uncle, she starts to doubt his true identity. The audience is left on the edge of their seats as Charley unravels the truth about her uncle, who has a dark secret: he is the notorious “Merry Widow” serial killer.
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4. I’ll Be Seeing You (1944)
I’ll Be Seeing You, ” originally released in 1944, is a heartwarming drama that explores the theme of love found amidst loneliness and despair. Set during Christmas, the film follows the story of a soldier who suffers from combat fatigue as he meets a young woman, who is on furlough from a prison. Both of them share an overwhelming sense of loneliness, which blossoms into a romantic connection.
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5. Since You Went Away (1944)
Since You Went Away is a heartwarming and intense World War II era drama that tells the story of a housewife, left alone to care for their two daughters while their husband is away fighting in the war. The film, winner of one Oscar and eight total nominations, is an emotional journey exploring themes of marriage, engagement, and high school graduation, all unfolding in the backdrop of a time when the country is at war.
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6. Gaslight (1944)
Gaslight” (1944) is a gripping crime drama that takes place in 19th century London. After the mysterious murder of her aunt, a woman named Paula (played by Ingrid Bergman) returns home from Italy to live with her new husband, Gregory Anton (Charles Boyer). However, Gregory’s obsessive interest in the house hides a dark secret, as he manipulates Paula, driving her to question her own sanity.
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7. Duel in the Sun (1946)
Duel in the Sun” (1946) delves into the passionate story of Pearl Chavez, a stunningly beautiful woman of biracial descent, who becomes the ward of her late father’s one-time love. As the plot thickens, she is drawn inexorably between two brothers, one representing the virtues of good, the other embodying the dark allure of sin. This film masterfully blends elements of drama, romance, and western as an astronomical object finds its way into the title, reflecting the interplay between good and bad, light and darkness.
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8. Under Capricorn (1949)
Under Capricorn, ” directed by the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, takes viewers on a thrilling, atmospheric journey to 19th-century Australia. The film revolves around a charming gentleman, who, upon reuniting with his once-girlfriend, discovers her shocking transformation into an alcoholic.
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9. Beyond the Forest (1949)
Beyond the Forest, released in 1949, is a compelling drama film that explores the complexities of love, wealth, and the human desire for something more. Starring brilliant actors Bette Davis and Joseph Cotten, this film tells the story of a married woman who is discontented with her small-town life and yearns for something more extravagant. Her disillusionment leads her to scheme and plot with a wealthy businessman in an attempt to escape her mundane existence.
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10. The Third Man (1949)
The Third Man” is a gripping 1949 British noir film directed by Carol Reed, which unfolds in the enigmatic city of Vienna after World War II. The film stars Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten, and Alida Valli, and is based on the novel of the same name by Graham Greene.
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11. Othello (1951)
Experience the timeless tale of manipulation, jealousy, and betrayal in the classic film, Othello. Set against the backdrop of Venice and Cyprus, this gripping drama follows the Moorish General Othello, as he is deceived into believing his beloved wife, Desdemona, has been unfaithful to him. This sinister plot has been masterfully crafted by the cunning Ensign, Iago, who is seeking revenge on Othello and those around him.
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12. The Steel Trap (1952)
The Steel Trap” is a gripping 1952 film-noir that tells the story of a resourceful bank assistant-manager planning a high-stakes theft. As the film unfolds, we witness the meticulous steps he takes as he devises a masterful plan to steal money from the bank’s vault, intending to escape with his unsuspecting wife to Brazil. However, the movie takes an unexpected turn when the manager finds himself in a race against time, with threats from extradition looming and his criminal empire crumbling around him.
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13. Niagara (1953)
Niagara” is a gripping thriller and film noir set against the stunning backdrop of Niagara Falls. This 1953 classic, directed by Henry Hathaway and written by Charles Brackett, Walter Reisch, and Richard L. Breen, offers a chilling exploration of relationships and their darker side.
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14. Light’s Diamond Jubilee (1954)
Experience the magic of light in this captivating 1954 documentary, “Light’s Diamond Jubilee. ” As one of the first films to explore the world of natural light, this visually stunning film delves into the science behind this vital component of our lives.
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15. The Killer Is Loose (1956)
The Killer Is Loose, a gripping film noir from 1956, follows a dangerous bank robber with a chilling secret: he’s vengeful and deadly. Escape from prison, his mind twisted, he seeks out the one man who inadvertently caused the tragic death of his beloved wife - a cop involved in a deadly gunfight. As the killer lurks in the shadows, plotting his reckless revenge, the stakes grow higher and the tension builds.
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16. From the Earth to the Moon (1958)
From the Earth to the Moon” is a captivating adventure set in the 1860s, inspired by the novel by Jules Verne. The film follows American inventor Victor Barbicane as he creates a powerful military explosive and transforms it into fuel for a moon-bound rocket. He assembles a diverse crew including himself, and they embark on a thrilling journey filled with excitement and danger. As they traverse through the vastness of space, the crew encounters unexpected challenges and discoveries.
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17. Touch of Evil (1958)
Touch of Evil is a chilling crime drama set in a Mexican border town, where a web of murder, kidnapping, and police corruption is exposed. Directed by the legendary Orson Welles, the film masterfully intertwines the personal and professional lives of its characters.
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18. The Last Sunset (1961)
The Last Sunset” is a gripping tale set in the wild west, revolving around a trio of men with intertwined destinies. Fugitive O’Malley, played by Rock Hudson, and pursuing Sheriff Stribling, played by Kirk Douglas, find themselves agreeing to help rancher Breckenridge (John Wayne) drive his herd into Texas. However, the situation is far from simple as the sheriff’s aim is not just a cattle drive, but rather to legally arrest the fugitive.
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19. Hush…Hush, Sweet Charlotte (1964)
Hush. . Hush, Sweet Charlotte” is a chilling 1964 drama directed by Robert Aldrich that explores the dark side of life and the secrets held within a Southern family. Reclusive Southern belle Charlotte Hollis (Bette Davis) struggles with a disturbing family legacy that threatens to drive her to the edge.
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20. The Money Trap (1965)
The Money Trap” takes crime and drama to new heights, set to thrill audiences with intriguing twists and turns. When a safe carrying half a million dollars disappears from a doctor’s office, the assignment cops, Joe and Pete, decide to take matters into their own hands. With a clever plan, they resolve to find the stolen money and keep it themselves.
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21. The Oscar (1966)
The Oscar” is a 1966 drama film that delves into the world of Hollywood and the glamorous lifestyle of its stars. The story revolves around a self-centered actor who becomes even more full of himself after being nominated for the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor.
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22. Jack of Diamonds (1967)
Jack of Diamonds, ” a 1967 crime drama, follows the intriguing story of Jack, a young man who reluctantly teams up with an older criminal to pull off an audacious heist of famous jewels. This unlikely pairing promises a thrilling adventure and unexpected twists.
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23. Split Second to an Epitaph (1968)
In the gripping 1968 thriller, Split Second to an Epitaph, a seasoned cop’s life takes a dark turn as he becomes entangled in a web of murder and deception. Veteran detective Raymond Burr navigates the labyrinth of criminals, with the help of his steadfast partner, played by Joseph Cotten. As the case unfolds, Burr’s relentless pursuit of truth leads him to question everything he believed in, taking him on a chilling journey that pushes the limits of his investigation.
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24. Petulia (1968)
Petulia, a captivating drama released in 1968, paints a vivid picture of the complexities of love and marriage. Focusing on the unfulfilling relationship of an unhappily married socialite, the film takes us on a journey of self-discovery and healing.
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25. The Lonely Profession (1969)
The Lonely Profession” is a gripping 1969 crime drama film that follows the life of a private detective who navigates a dark and lonely world. Set in the era of film noir, the film explores the consequences of the detective’s actions and the relationships he forms within a gritty urban landscape.
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26. The Grasshopper (1970)
The Grasshopper” is a 1970 drama film directed by Jerry Paris, featuring a compelling storyline that takes viewers on a journey of innocence to decadence. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Jim Brown, and Joseph Cotten, this film tells the story of Christine Adams, a young woman who leaves British Columbia with her boyfriend, hoping to make it big in show business. However, their detour to Las Vegas sets them on a path that leads to a life no one would aspire to.
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27. Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970)
Tora! . Tora! .
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28. Journey to Murder (1971)
Journey to Murder, released in 1971, is a gripping anthology film that combines elements of drama, horror, and mystery. The film consists of three thrilling episodes, each adapted from the UK TV series Journey to the Unknown (1968).
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29. The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971)
In “The Abominable Dr. Phibes, ” released in 1971, we are introduced to the intriguing world of Dr. Anton Phibes, a multi-talented individual who moonlights as a biblical scholar, a scientist, and a concert organist.
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30. Assault on the Wayne (1971)
Experience the heart-pounding tension of Assault on the Wayne, a gripping Cold War action thriller set in 1971. When enemy agents sneakily infiltrate a U. S.
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31. The Scopone Game (1972)
The Scopone Game” is a delightful comedy-drama from 1972 that captures the essence of human connection and the power of laughter. Each year, a Countess invites a poor Italian family to her estate to participate in a bizarre card game called “Scopone. ” This game transcends the realm of mere entertainment, as it brings together people from diverse backgrounds, united by their love for the game and its ability to challenge them.
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32. Soylent Green (1973)
Soylent Green” is a chilling 1973 science fiction film that explores the dangers of corporate control and the devastating effects of overpopulation. The movie takes place in a dystopian future, where the world is plagued by scarcity and starvation. The film follows the story of a reluctant cop, played by Charlton Heston, as he uncovers a shocking conspiracy involving a popular food product called Soylent Green.
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33. A Delicate Balance (1973)
A Delicate Balance” is a gripping 1973 drama film that explores family relationships and terror, blending both the mundane and the macabre. Directed by Tony Richardson and based on the play by the same name, this Edward Albee classic follows a well-to-do Connecticut family as they navigate the sudden arrival of their daughter’s godparents, who grapple with an unnamed terror. The film adroitly juggles the tensions inherent in its enigmatic plot, with the screenplay adapted by the author leaving much room for interpretation.
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34. F for Fake (1973)
F for Fake” is a 1973 documentary directed by Orson Welles, Gary Graver, and Oja Kodar, showcasing his fascination with fake identities, fakery, and fraud. This intriguing film presents the lives of painter François Reichenbach and biographer Elmyr de Hory, both notorious for their ability to deceive others.
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35. The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case (1976)
In the gripping drama “The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case, ” a chilling event takes place when the infant son of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh is kidnapped in 1932. As the baby’s lifeless body is discovered, a German immigrant named Bruno Hauptmann is accused and tried for both kidnapping and murder. The movie, released in 1976, stars Anthony Hopkins, Denise Alexander, and Cliff De Young, with a runtime of 2 hours and 28 minutes.
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36. 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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37. Twilight’s Last Gleaming (1977)
Twilight’s Last Gleaming” (1977) is a gripping drama and thriller film centering around a rogue USAF General, played by Burt Lancaster, confined in a brig, who manages an elaborate escape. With a hidden personal agenda, this General takes control of an ICBM silo, threatening to instigate a catastrophic World War III.
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38. Last In, First Out (1978)
Experience the pulse-pounding drama of Last In, First Out, a 1978 thriller by French director Claude d’Anna. Set on a train, this film is a gripping tale of mistaken identity as a woman becomes the unwitting center of attention, caught between two rival factions. When she’s mistaken for a spy, the stakes are high, and suspense brews in every second of this nerve-wracking journey.
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39. Caravans (1978)
In the action-packed historical adventure “Caravans” (1978), a young U. S. diplomat is entrusted with the mission of finding the missing daughter of an influential U. S.
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40. The Island of the Fishmen (1979)
Dive into the unknown with the 1979 thriller “The Island of the Fishmen, ” also known as “L’isola degli uomini pesce. ” Set on a mysterious island, this action-adventure-horror film follows a group of strangers who awaken unsuspecting on a peculiar, seemingly abandoned shipwreck.
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41. Heaven’s Gate (1980)
Heaven’s Gate” (1980) is a three-and-a-half-hour epic Western adventure that takes place during the turbulent Johnson County War in 1890 Wyoming. As a wealthy sheriff, John L.
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42. Casino (1980)
Casino” is a gripping 1980 film that explores the thrilling and dangerous world of gambling. The movie, set on a hotel/casino ship, takes an unexpected turn as the vessel embarks on its maiden voyage.
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43. The Hearse (1980)
The Hearse, released in 1980, is a chilling drama, horror, and thriller film directed by George Bowers. The story follows a schoolteacher, Jane, played by Trish Van Devere, as she settles into her deceased aunt’s house in a small town. Unbeknownst to Jane, her aunt’s mysterious past will soon intertwine with her own, leaving her to confront supernatural occurrences and unfriendly townspeople.
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44. Hollywood Heaven: Tragic Lives, Tragic Deaths (1990)
Hollywood Heaven: Tragic Lives, Tragic Deaths” (1990) is an intense and poignant documentary featuring a compelling compilation of photos, footage, and trailers, exploring the lives and untimely deaths of various well-known stars. With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes, this film delves into the tragic stories that unfolded off-screen, providing an intimate glimpse into the lives of the fallen.
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45. Hollywood Mavericks (1990)
Hollywood Mavericks is a captivating documentary from 1990 that delves into the world of seventeen daring directors who fearlessly broke the conventions of filmmaking to revolutionize the art form. From the legendary John Ford to the visionary Martin Scorsese, the film features interviews with some of the most influential filmmakers in history. This engrossing documentary explores the risks and rewards that these mavericks took to push the boundaries of their craft, ultimately reshaping the landscape of cinema.
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46. Jimmy Hollywood (1994)
Immerse yourself in the high-stakes world of crime and entertainment with ‘Jimmy Hollywood’ (1994). This gritty comedy-drama follows a struggling actor who, having reached his breaking point, takes matters into his own hands. Living in the infamous crime-riddled streets of Los Angeles, Jimmy takes a wild leap and joins a street smart group of vigilantes, turning the local criminal scene upside down.
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47. The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies (1995)
The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies” (1995) is a documentary that delves into the fascinating world of Hollywood, the largest exporter of films in the world. Narrated by renowned actor Peter Coyote, the film takes viewers on a journey through the rich history of American cinema, featuring interviews with iconic actors, directors, and writers who have made significant contributions to the industry.
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48. Filmmakers vs. Tycoons (2005)
Filmmakers vs. Tycoons” (2005) is a Spanish documentary that explores the impact of the film industry on the creative process.
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49. Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story (2010)
Join the world’s most iconic board game as it transforms into a global cultural phenomenon. Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story takes you on a thrilling journey through the history of the game, revealing the colorful characters that have come together to fight for the title of Monopoly World Champion.
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50. Just Henry (2011)
Just Henry” (2011) tells the compelling story of a young boy named Henry who discovers a mysterious war medal belonging to his father, who died in World War II. Intrigued by the circumstances surrounding his father’s death, Henry embarks on a journey to uncover the truth. As he delves deeper into the past, he realizes that there are secrets and lies waiting to be unearthed.
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51. These Amazing Shadows (2011)
These Amazing Shadows” (2011) is a powerful documentary that explores the history and significance of The National Film Registry, a prestigious roll call of American cinema treasures. This film not only reflects the diverse array of films but also encapsulates the American experience, making it a compelling watch for film appreciation enthusiasts.
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52. Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles (2014)
Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles” is a captivating documentary that delves into the life and work of the legendary theatre, radio, and film artist, Orson Welles. The film offers an in-depth look at Welles’ incredible career, featuring interviews with key figures in his life, such as Simon Callow and Christopher Welles, as well as critical insights from sources like Variety Magazine, Cinematheque Francaise, and Roger Ebert.
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53. They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead (2018)
They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead” is a riveting documentary that explores the final fifteen years of the life of the legendary director, Orson Welles. The film follows Welles as he pins his hopes on a Hollywood comeback with the making of “The Other Side of the Wind. ” The documentary not only delves into the behind-the-scenes aspect of film history but also provides a fascinating insight into the world of filmmaking. In addition to the captivating storyline, the film stars Peter Bogdanovich, Oja Kodar, and Alan Cumming.
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