· movies · 24 min read
All 57 Karl Malden Movies (in Order)
Get ready for a thrilling journey through the world of cinema as we delve into the best Karl Malden Movies. From his early roles in gritty dramas to his later appearances in heartwarming comedies, this roundup covers it all. Whether you’re a fan of Malden’s work or just discovering his talents, this article is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the legendary actor’s career.
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1. They Knew What They Wanted (1940)
They Knew What They Wanted” is a delightful and engaging drama-romance film that premiered in 1940. Directed by Garson Kanin, the story revolves around a wealthy farmer who falls in love with a young woman through letters. Unfortunately, an innocent mistake leads him to inadvertently send a photograph of his foreman instead of himself, resulting in a series of funny and complicated situations.
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2. Winged Victory (1944)
Winged Victory, released in 1944, follows the lives of five young men who join the Army Air Forces in hopes of becoming pilots. Pinkie Scariano, Alan Ross, and Frankie Davis quickly become friends with Bobby Grills and Irving Miller as they embark on the rigorous training and challenging tests required to become pilots. However, not all of them will succeed, and tragedy looms for some.
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3. The Gunfighter (1950)
Buckle up for a thrilling western adventure with ‘The Gunfighter’! Directed by Henry King, this 1950 film tells the tale of notorious gunfighter Jimmy Ringo, played by the charismatic Gregory Peck. Upon entering a small town, Jimmy is determined to find his long-lost love who refuses to see him. As fate would have it, trouble quickly catches up to him, making his journey much more complicated than he anticipated.
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4. Halls of Montezuma (1951)
Experience the pulse-pounding adventure of “Halls of Montezuma” (1951), a thrilling war drama that pits a courageous company of Marines against the ruthless Japanese. Directed by the legendary Lewis Milestone, this gritty tale follows a determined group of U. S. soldiers as they race against time to locate a formidable Japanese rocket base.
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5. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)
A Streetcar Named Desire” is a classic drama film that takes viewers on an unforgettable journey. The movie, released in 1951, tells the story of Blanche DuBois, a disturbed woman who moves in with her sister in New Orleans. As she struggles to maintain her sanity, Blanche is tormented by her brutish brother-in-law and the harsh reality of her crumbling world.
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6. Diplomatic Courier (1952)
Diplomatic Courier, ” released in 1952, is a gripping crime drama that takes place in post-WW2 Europe. Henry Hathaway directs this thrilling tale, where a US State Department courier finds himself entangled in a web of espionage, deception, seductive women, and dangerous Soviet agents.
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7. Ruby Gentry (1952)
Ruby Gentry” is a captivating drama-romance film released in 1952, starring Jennifer Jones, Charlton Heston, and Karl Malden. The story revolves around a beautiful yet impoverished young woman, Ruby Gentry, who is determined to break free from the constraints of her circumstances. Ruby catches the eyes of the town’s most eligible bachelor, a rich man who she neither loves nor desires.
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8. I Confess (1953)
I Confess, directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, is a gripping crime drama that delves into the complexities of the confessional seal and the battle between honor, duty, and survival. Father Logan, played by Montgomery Clift, is a dedicated priest who finds himself under suspicion for a murder he did not commit.
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9. On the Waterfront (1954)
On the Waterfront” is a gripping 1954 crime drama film that follows the journey of Terry Malloy, an ex-prize fighter turned New Jersey longshoreman. As he grapples with the corrupt union bosses, including his brother, Terry starts to form a connection with a grieving sister of one of the syndicate’s victims.
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10. Baby Doll (1956)
Embark on a riveting journey with “Baby Doll” (1956), a hauntingly enchanting tale of innocence and seduction from acclaimed director Elia Kazan and award-winning playwright Tennessee Williams. Set in the sultry south, the story revolves around a child bride named Archie Lee (Carroll Baker) who finds herself ensnared between her anxious husband Silva Lagrone (Karl Malden) and an amorous Sicilian farmer named Marco Varriello (Eli Wallach). As the tension builds, Archie Lee’s charm and naiveté give way to a dangerous game of power and desire, leaving her and Silva’s fragile relationship on the brink of disintegration.
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11. Fear Strikes Out (1957)
Fear Strikes Out, ” a true-life tale of struggle and triumph, tells the inspiring story of baseball player Jimmy Piersall. Plagued by mental illness, Piersall perseveres to become a star in the Major League Baseball league.
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12. Bombers B-52 (1957)
Bombers B-52” is a riveting drama, romance, and war film released in 1957 that stars Natalie Wood, Karl Malden, and Marsha Hunt. Set in the United States Air Force, the film centers around Sgt. Chuck Brennan, who is fiercely protective of his daughter, Lois, as he battles his dislike for her hotshot boyfriend, Col. Jim Herlihy. The fast-paced plot thrusts the audience into a world of intense emotions, interwoven with the ever-present specter of war.
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13. The Hanging Tree (1959)
The Hanging Tree” is a compelling 1959 Western film that captivates viewers with its unique storyline and strong performances from its talented cast. Set in the Montana Territory during the gold rush era of the 1870s, the film revolves around a doctor with a troubled past who attempts to find redemption through his connection with a young thief and a Swiss immigrant he helps recover from her injuries.
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14. Pollyanna (1960)
Pollyanna” is a heartwarming family film that first captivated audiences in 1960. The story follows a young orphan, whose optimism and cheerfulness touch the lives of the embittered townsfolk, as she discovers the real meaning of joy and hope.
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15. The Great Impostor (1960)
The Great Impostor” is a comedy-drama film that tells the true story of the versatile and resourceful Ferdinand Waldo Demara Jr. , who finds his thrill in impersonating various roles, from a marine to a monk, a navy surgeon, and even a prison warden. However, his passion for forgery gets him into trouble with the law. Based on the novel of the same name, this film showcases Demara’s extraordinary talent for mimicry and deception while highlighting the consequences of his actions.
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16. One-Eyed Jacks (1961)
One-Eyed Jacks is a thrilling 1961 drama-filled Western directed by Marlon Brando. The film, set in 19th-century California, follows a bandit known as Dad Longworth (played by Marlon Brando), who successfully robs a Mexican bank and escapes with the loot, leaving his partner Rio (Karl Malden) to be captured. However, Rio manages to break out of prison and embarks on a relentless hunt for Dad in Monterey, California.
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17. Parrish (1961)
Parrish” is a captivating 1961 drama, set in the picturesque Connecticut River Valley, where newly employed tobacco farmer Parrish McLean finds himself entangled in a bitter competition between his employer, Sala Post, and the rival Judd Raike tobacco corporation. As he navigates this tense feud, Parrish is also caught in a personal struggle amongst the three women vying for his affection - farmhand Lucy, Sala’s daughter Allison, and Judd’s daughter Paige. Delmer Daves effectively brings Mildred Savage’s novel to life, creating a compelling narrative about love, rivalry, and the tobacco industry amidst the rich landscapes of New England. Warning: Contains some scenes of tobacco cultivation, intense rivalry, and strong romantic elements.
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18. Gypsy (1962)
Gypsy (1962) is a biographical comedy-drama film that captures the life and journey of burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee and her overprotective stage mother, Mama Rose. Set in the 1920s and 1930s, the movie transports audiences to the glitz and glamour of a bygone era.
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19. Birdman of Alcatraz (1962)
Experience the captivating true story of “Birdman of Alcatraz, ” a 1962 drama film that explores the journey of a convicted murderer turned renowned bird expert. Based on the life of Robert Stroud, John Frankenheimer’s riveting directorial work stars Burt Lancaster, Karl Malden, and Thelma Ritter as the lead characters.
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20. How the West Was Won (1962)
Get ready for an epic journey through the annals of American history as “How the West Was Won” unravels the dramatic story of Westward expansion in the 19th century. Spanning several decades, this family saga brings to life the Gold Rush, the Civil War, and the construction of railroads.
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21. Dead Ringer (1963)
Dead Ringer” is an enthralling 1963 crime drama with a hint of thriller. Directed by Paul Henreid, the movie stars Bette Davis, Karl Malden, and Peter Lawford, and is brought to you by Warner Bros. With a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes, the film has an IMDb rating of 7.3, based on 6,313 votes.
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22. Come Fly with Me (1963)
Experience the glamorous world of flight attendants in the 1963 romantic comedy, “Come Fly with Me. ” Set across New York, Vienna, and Paris, the film follows three stewardesses who blend their professional duties crossing the Atlantic with the pursuit of eligible bachelors to marry. The enchanting trip full of laughter and charm takes the audience on a journey of love, infidelity, and unexpected twists. Directed by Henry Levin and starring Dolores Hart, Hugh O’Brian, and Karlheinz Böhm, “Come Fly with Me” offers a delightful blend of comedy and romance that will leave you smiling.
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23. The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
In 1965, “The Cincinnati Kid” takes you on a thrilling journey into the high-stakes world of professional poker. Steve McQueen plays the role of an ambitious poker player, determined to prove himself against a seasoned veteran in a no-holds-barred match. The film is filled with intense rivalry, with each character using their unique approach to make their mark in the game.
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24. Murderers’ Row (1966)
Murderers’ Row, released in 1966, is an action-packed, entertaining film that falls perfectly within the spy comedy genre. The movie, starring the highly talented Dean Martin, revolves around the character Matt Helm, a dashing and enigmatic top-secret American agent. His mission takes him to the glamorous Riviera, where he must recover a laser-weapons inventor who has been kidnapped by the ruthless and malevolent Julian Wall.
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25. Nevada Smith (1966)
Nevada Smith” is a gripping tale of revenge set amidst the unforgiving landscapes of the Nevada Territory. The film tells the story of a half-American Indian and half-white teenager, Nevada Smith (Steve McQueen), who seeks vengeance for the murder of his parents.
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26. Hotel (1967)
Hotel” (1967) is an engrossing drama set in a historical New Orleans hotel where the characters are as varied as the suites, each one grappling with their own turmoil. The hotel’s financial struggle provides the backdrop for a series of intertwining plots, each revealing secrets and desires. The film explores the complexities of human relationships and moral dilemmas.
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27. The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin (1967)
The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin” is a delightful 1967 film from Walt Disney Productions that transports us to the gold-rush era of the 1840s. This thrilling adventure-comedy follows a young, ambitious Bostonian named Bullwhip Griffin, who decides to embark on a journey to California in search of fortune and glory. However, his trusty butler, whose devotion goes beyond duty, embarks on a daring quest of his own to bring Bullwhip back home.
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28. Billion Dollar Brain (1967)
Billion Dollar Brain, ” a gripping British espionage thriller, follows the exploits of the enigmatic Harry Palmer. Palmer, a British spy-turned-detective, finds himself entwined in the grandiose plans of an oil tycoon hell-bent on overthrowing Communism utilizing advanced technology.
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29. Blue (1968)
Blue” (1968) is a gripping Western film that tells the story of a young American man raised by Mexican bandits. As a result, he finds himself caught between two worlds when his Mexican gang begins to commit violent acts on U. S. border towns. Set against the backdrop of the U. S. -Mexico border, the movie explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the complexities of choosing between one’s roots and one’s allegiance.
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30. Hot Millions (1968)
Hot Millions, released in 1969, is a clever comedy-crime film starring Peter Ustinov and Maggie Smith as Marcus Pendleton and Miss Garnet, respectively. This movie revolves around the caper-crime genre with Marcus, a paroled London fraudster, posing as a computer specialist. His goal is to work for an insurance company that heavily relies on its corporate server.
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31. Patton (1970)
Patton” is an epic biographical drama that delves into the life of the controversial American general, George S. Patton, during the World War II era. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, the film is written by Francis Ford Coppola, Edmund H. North, and Ladislas Farago. Starring George C. Scott, Karl Malden, and Stephen Young, “Patton” is a gripping exploration of Patton’s military career, characterized by his unconventional leadership style and rudeness.
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32. The Cat o’ Nine Tails (1971)
In “The Cat o’ Nine Tails” (1971), two investigative journalists find themselves in the crosshairs of a deadly conspiracy as they unravel the truth behind a series of gruesome murders connected to a pharmaceutical company’s experimental research. The film, directed by horror mastermind Dario Argento, plunges audiences into the genre of “giallo, ” a blend of horror, mystery, and thriller.
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33. Wild Rovers (1971)
Wild Rovers” is a thrilling 1971 drama-western film directed by Blake Edwards, which showcases two weary cowboys who are tired of their mundane lives as cattle herders. Fueled by desperation and the lure of adventure, they decide to take matters into their own hands and rob a bank, only to find themselves on the run from their employer’s sons who are hot on their trail.
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34. Summertime Killer (1972)
In “Summertime Killer” (1972), a chilling tale of revenge and redemption unfolds, set against the backdrop of the Spanish coast. A six-year-old boy, named Luis, inadvertently becomes witness to the brutal murder of his father at the hands of vicious mobsters. Fast forward two decades, and now grown with a burning determination, Luis embarks on a terrifying quest for retribution. His primary target: the very same gang members who took his father’s life.
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35. America at the Movies (1976)
America at the Movies” is a 1976 documentary film that showcases a fascinating compilation of scenes from 83 American films, divided into five intriguing segments. The cinematic voyage delves into the heart of America, highlighting its diverse landscapes, bustling cities, loving families, significant conflicts, and profound spirit.
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36. Captains Courageous (1977)
Embark on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery with “Captains Courageous. ” Released in 1977, this heartwarming adventure, based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling, follows the life of a privileged young boy who is thrown into the harsh world of the sea after falling overboard. Picked up by a grizzled old sea captain, the young boy learns the value of hard work, courage, and friendship.
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37. Meteor (1979)
Prepare to face the ultimate cosmic threat in “Meteor” (1979), an action-packed thriller starring Sean Connery, Natalie Wood, and Karl Malden. As the world braces for an impending disaster, the United States and the U. S. S. R. must put aside their differences and join forces to avert the apocalypse.
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38. Beyond the Poseidon Adventure (1979)
Beyond the Poseidon Adventure, a gripping cinematic experience, takes you deeper into the underwater world of the iconic shipwreck from the previous film. A diverse ensemble cast, including the inimitable Michael Caine, Sally Field, and Telly Savalas, unravel in thrilling underwater swimming scenes as they endeavor to salvage several fortunes. The film delves into the dangerous realms of plutonium and self-sacrifice, testing the limits of courage and determination.
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39. Word of Honor (1981)
In the gripping thriller “Word of Honor” (1981), a dedicated reporter risks everything, including his family’s standing in their close-knit community, to protect the source of his groundbreaking information. When the brutal murder of a young girl shocks their small town, the tenacious journalist vows to uncover the truth, despite the dire consequences that follow.
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40. Miracle on Ice (1981)
In 1980, during the height of the Second Cold War, a group of underdog American hockey players took on the seemingly invincible Soviet team at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. Directed by Steven Hilliard Stern and based on a true story, “Miracle on Ice” chronicles the inspiring journey of the U. S. Olympic hockey team, led by Coach Brother Bennett, as they defy the odds and triumph against their formidable rivals.
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41. Twilight Time (1982)
Twilight Time” is a heartfelt, family drama set in a quaint farming village in Yugoslavia, released in 1982 with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. Directed by Goran Paskaljevic and written by Paskaljevic, Filip David, and Dan Tana, the film follows an elderly man who returns to his homeland after spending two decades in America. Upon his return, he finds himself responsible for raising his two grandchildren.
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42. The Sting II (1983)
In “The Sting II, ” director Jeremy Kagan returns with this humorous caper, which is a sequel to the iconic Best Picture winner, “The Sting. ” Set in the early 1980s, the movie centers around a group of con artists, led by Jerry (Jackie Gleason), who plan to swindle their way to riches by orchestrating a massive betting scam on a high-profile boxing match.
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43. Dario Argento’s World of Horror (1985)
Dive into the twisted world of horror mastermind Dario Argento in the riveting documentary, “Dario Argento’s World of Horror. ” This 1985 film takes viewers on a chilling journey through Argento’s dark and eerie creations from 1969 to 1985. Watch as the acclaimed filmmaker shares his innovative approach to horror filmmaking and reflects on his influential career that has terrorized audiences for decades. Featuring a captivating interview with Dario Argento, this documentary provides an in-depth look at the man behind the fear, taking you behind the scenes for an unforgettable experience.
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44. Nuts (1987)
Nuts (1987) is a captivating drama and thriller film that follows the journey of a high-class call girl, played by Barbra Streisand, who stands accused of a shocking murder. Caught in a web of doubt and deception, she fights tirelessly to prove her mental competency and secure the chance to stand trial.
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45. The 59th Annual Academy Awards (1987)
Step into the glamorous world of Hollywood as The 59th Annual Academy Awards unfolds on stage! This spectacular event, hosted by the enigmatic Ralph Bellamy, is where the brightest stars of the silver screen gather to celebrate their achievements. With memorable moments and heartfelt speeches, the Academy Awards has been the epitome of film excellence for decades.
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46. Call Me Anna (1990)
Call Me Anna, ” released in 1990, is an emotionally charged drama based on the real-life experiences of actress Patty Duke. The film explores Duke’s long-standing battle with mental illness, offering an intimate look at the hidden challenges faced by those who struggle with their mind’s state. Directed by Gilbert Cates and written by Patty Duke, Kenneth Turan, and John McGreevey, the film highlights the impact of a traumatic childhood on her adult life, touching upon sensitive themes like sexual assault and abuse.
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47. Absolute Strangers (1991)
In the heart-wrenching drama “Absolute Strangers, ” a husband is faced with a harrowing decision when he discovers that his comatose wife is pregnant and doctors are urging her to undergo an abortion. Desperate to keep her alive, he consents to the procedure, unaware of the legal battle that will soon ensue. Anti-abortion protesters, sensing an opportunity, launch a campaign to gain legal custody of the fetus.
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48. Earth and the American Dream (1992)
Earth and the American Dream, ” a profound environmental documentary, offers a fresh perspective on America’s history, focusing on its environmental evolution from Columbus’ exploration in the 15th century to the current landscape of resource depletion. The 1992 film, produced by Home Box Office (HBO), delves into the ecological impacts and challenges faced by the nation, while shedding light on the allure of the American Dream and the consequences it has brought upon our environment.
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49. Oscar’s Greatest Moments (1992)
Get ready to relive the magic and drama of the Academy Awards with “Oscar’s Greatest Moments” (1992). This captivating documentary offers an in-depth look at some of the most unforgettable moments at the Oscars ceremony from 1971 to 1991. From heartfelt acceptance speeches to shocking twists and turns, this film captures the essence of Hollywood’s most prestigious event.
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50. They’ve Taken Our Children: The Chowchilla Kidnapping (1993)
Based on a true and harrowing event, ‘They’ve Taken Our Children: The Chowchilla Kidnapping’ follows the story of three young men who decide to make money in an unthinkable way. Taking place in a small California town, these men decide to abduct a school bus full of children, making off with a ransom that promises the safe return of their hostages. As the townspeople scramble to deal with this unheard-of crime, the film takes a dramatic turn, drawing viewers into a tale of crime, drama, and suspense.
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51. Barbra: The Concert (1994)
Experience an unforgettable night of music with Barbra: The Concert, an iconic performance by Barbra Streisand from 1994. Captured live at the Arrowhead Pond, Anaheim, California, this timeless event is a testament to Streisand’s exceptional talent and charm.
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52. AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Thrills: America’s Most Heart-Pounding Movies (2001)
AFI’s 100 Years. . 100 Thrills invites you on a pulse-pounding journey through the history of American cinema.
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53. Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There (2003)
Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There, is a captivating documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the golden era of Broadway through the 1960s. From the hustle and bustle of post-war Manhattan to the evolving world of theater, the film skillfully weaves together interviews and archival footage to provide an immersive experience. The documentaries touch on the iconic personalities that shaped Broadway during this time, including legendary names like Edie Adams, Bea Arthur, and Elizabeth Ashley.
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54. … A Father… A Son… Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2005)
A Father. . A Son. .
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55. Brando (2007)
Brando” is a riveting, heartfelt documentary that delves into the life and legacy of the iconic Marlon Brando, renowned for revolutionizing the art of acting. As the first biography made during his lifetime, the film masterfully captures Brando’s essence off-screen, revealing the man behind the enigmatic persona. The movie explores Brando’s professional journey, his complex relationship with the entertainment industry, and his indelible impact on film history.
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56. American Grindhouse (2010)
American Grindhouse” is a thrilling and informative documentary that takes a fascinating deep dive into the history of exploitation movies from the silent film era to the 1970s. Directed by Elijah Drenner, this film masterfully transports audiences to a bygone era, providing a glimpse into the gritty world of exploitation cinema.
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57. The 82nd Annual Academy Awards (2010)
The 82nd Annual Academy Awards, hosted by Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, bring together Hollywood’s finest for a night of glamour, celebration, and recognition. With Carey Mulligan, Macaulay Culkin, and Bradley Cooper in attendance, the awards ceremony promises an unforgettable evening filled with heartfelt speeches, stunning performances, and unexpected surprises.
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