The Best Elizabeth Taylor Movies
1Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Burl IvesBoasting Elizabeth Taylor's mesmerizing performance, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is an adaptation of Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and human desires. As Maggie "the Cat," Taylor masterfully portrays a woman trapped in her loveless marriage to Paul Newman's Brick, with both actors showcasing their exceptional chemistry and acting prowess. This steamy tale of deceit, betrayal, and familial tensions displays Taylor's versatility and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
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2Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, George SegalA daring exploration of marital discord in the 1960s, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? showcases Elizabeth Taylor at her finest as Martha – a bitter, confrontational woman married to Richard Burton's George. Directed by Mike Nichols and based on Edward Albee's celebrated play, this movie is nothing short of a tour de force for Taylor who won her second Oscar for Best Actress. Her raw portrayal of a deeply troubled wife continues to impact generations of actors and remains one of Hollywood's most memorable performances.
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3Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, James DeanAn epic drama spanning decades and featuring an all-star cast led by Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean – Giant tells the story of Texas cattle rancher Bick Benedict (Hudson) who marries Leslie Lynnton (Taylor), an East Coast socialite. Directed by George Stevens, the movie explores themes of family legacy, wealth, and shifting societal values through its complex characters and their relationships. Taylor's performance as the strong-willed Leslie earned her critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to carry a film of this magnitude.
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4Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, Shelley WintersConsidered one of Elizabeth Taylor's early masterpieces, A Place in the Sun pairs her with Montgomery Clift in this tragic adaptation of Theodore Dreiser’s novel An American Tragedy. Directed by George Stevens, the film shines a light on ambition, class disparity, and forbidden love through the story of George Eastman (Clift) whose pursuit of social mobility leads him down a dangerous path with dire consequences. The palpable chemistry between Clift and Taylor elevates this movie to classic status.
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5Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex HarrisonA testament to Elizabeth Taylor's star power and enduring allure, Cleopatra is a lavish historical epic recounting the life of one of history's most fascinating figures – Queen Cleopatra VII (Taylor). The film follows her tumultuous relationships with Julius Caesar (Rex Harrison) and Mark Antony (Richard Burton), showcasing not only Taylor's striking beauty but also her considerable acting talent. Despite the production troubles that plagued this ambitious project, it remains an indelible example of Hollywood's golden age.
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6Elizabeth Taylor, Montgomery Clift, Katharine HepburnThis dark psychological thriller directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz features Elizabeth Taylor alongside Katharine Hepburn and Montgomery Clift in a chilling adaptation of Tennessee Williams' play. Taylor plays Catherine Holly, niece to Hepburn's wealthy Violet Venable who conspires against Catherine for reasons yet unknown. Exploring themes such as mental illness, sexuality, and greed – Suddenly Last Summer showcases Taylor at her most intense in a role that earned her another Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
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7Elizabeth Taylor, Eddie Fisher, Dina MerrillPortraying Manhattan call girl Gloria Wandrous in BUtterfield 8 marked Elizabeth Taylor's transition from ingénue to full-fledged movie star as she won her first Oscar for Best Actress for this powerful performance. Adapted from John O'Hara’s novel – the film explores Gloria's struggle with love and self-acceptance amidst New York City’s seedy underworld while skillfully handling the gritty subject matter with grace and sophistication.
8Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Cyril CusackPairing Elizabeth Taylor with Richard Burton once again after Cleopatra, The Taming of the Shrew offers a delightful retelling of William Shakespeare's classic comedy. Taylor's feisty portrayal of Katherina alongside Burton's Petruchio proves to be an ideal match, with both actors displaying their impeccable comedic timing and undeniable chemistry. Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, this film remains a noteworthy adaptation due to its vibrant energy and stellar performances.
9Mickey Rooney, Elizabeth Taylor, Donald CrispA true testament to Elizabeth Taylor's early acting prowess, National Velvet tells the inspiring story of Velvet Brown (Taylor) who dreams of racing her horse in England’s prestigious Grand National race. With Mickey Rooney playing a jockey who helps train her horse – this film captures Taylor’s wide-eyed innocence with captivating screen presence that hints at the storied career she would go on to have.
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10June Allyson, Peter Lawford, Elizabeth TaylorThough featuring Elizabeth Taylor in a supporting role, this adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's beloved novel is no less deserving of recognition as one of the best films in her career. Appearing alongside June Allyson, Janet Leigh, and Margaret O'Brien – Taylor brings charm and warmth to the character of Amy March in this heartwarming tale about sisterhood and personal growth set during the Civil War era.
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11Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Eva Marie SaintReuniting with Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor stars in The Sandpiper as Laura Reynolds – a bohemian single mother who becomes entangled in an affair with Burton's married clergyman Dr. Edward Hewitt. Directed by Vincente Minnelli, this film beautifully captures the scenic beauty of California’s Big Sur coast while exploring complex themes of love, morality, and societal expectations through its captivating performances.
12Spencer Tracy, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan BennettA charming comedy featuring Elizabeth Taylor at her most radiant, Father of the Bride follows Spencer Tracy's harried father Stanley Banks as he navigates the chaos surrounding his daughter Kay’s (Taylor) impending nuptials. With delightful performances and relatable humor that has stood the test of time, this classic film remains a beloved favorite for generations.
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13Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, Eva Marie SaintIn this Civil War-era drama based on Ross Lockridge Jr.'s novel, Elizabeth Taylor portrays Susanna Drake – a Southern belle who marries Montgomery Clift's idealistic teacher Johnny Shawnessy and struggles with her mental health during the turmoil of war-torn America. This ambitious epic showcases Taylor's talent for tackling challenging roles and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
14Elizabeth Taylor, Van Johnson, Walter PidgeonAdapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald's short story Babylon Revisited, The Last Time I Saw Paris stars Elizabeth Taylor as Helen Ellswirth, a woman caught in a tumultuous marriage with Van Johnson's Charles Wills. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Paris, this romantic drama explores themes of love, loss, and redemption as Taylor delivers an emotionally resonant performance that showcases her depth as an actress.
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15Elizabeth Taylor, Mia Farrow, Robert MitchumA haunting psychological thriller directed by Joseph Losey, Secret Ceremony stars Elizabeth Taylor as Leonora – a prostitute who becomes entangled in the life of Mia Farrow's disturbed young woman, Cenci. With its compelling exploration of identity, manipulation, and power dynamics – this film displays Taylor's versatility as an actress willing to take on unconventional roles.
16Elizabeth Taylor, Dana Andrews, Peter FinchA suspenseful drama set in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Elephant Walk features Elizabeth Taylor as Ruth Wiley – a woman who marries plantation owner John Wiley (Peter Finch) only to discover that his late wife still haunts their opulent estate. Faced with external threats and internal turmoil, Taylor delivers a captivating performance that showcases her ability to navigate darker material.
17Robert Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan FontaineElizabeth Taylor shines in Ivanhoe – MGM's lavish adaptation of Sir Walter Scott's historical romance set during medieval England. As Rebecca – a beautiful Jewish healer caught in a love triangle with Robert Taylor's Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe and Joan Fontaine's Rowena – Taylor displays her ability to command the screen with grace, elegance, and poise.
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18Elizabeth Taylor, Maggie Smith, Orson WellesThis stylish ensemble drama reunites Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in a tale of love, wealth, and betrayal set against the backdrop of London’s Heathrow Airport. Directed by Anthony Asquith and featuring an all-star cast including Orson Welles and Maggie Smith – The V.I.P.s showcases not only the glamorous allure of its lead actors but also the captivating storytelling that defined 1960s cinema.
19Roddy McDowall, Donald Crisp, Dame May WhittyAn enduring classic that tugs at the heartstrings, Lassie Come Home marks one of Elizabeth Taylor's earliest film appearances alongside Roddy McDowall. As young Priscilla Brown, she befriends McDowall's Joe Carraclough when his beloved collie Lassie is sold by his financially struggling family. This touching story about loyalty and friendship provides a glimpse into the blossoming talent that would make her one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
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20Elizabeth Taylor, Marlon Brando, Harvey KeitelIn this provocative drama directed by John Huston, Elizabeth Taylor delivers a daring performance as Leonora Penderton – the unfaithful wife of Marlon Brando's repressed army officer Major Weldon Penderton. Set on a military base in the Deep South, Reflections in a Golden Eye explores themes of sexual repression, obsession, and betrayal with its striking visual style and unforgettable performances from its talented cast.
21Angela Lansbury, Elizabeth Taylor, Edward FoxBased on Agatha Christie's popular mystery novel, The Mirror Crack'd features Elizabeth Taylor as famous actress Marina Rudd who becomes embroiled in solving a murder that occurs during her stay at a quaint English village for a film shoot. With its impressive ensemble cast including Angela Lansbury and Rock Hudson – this whodunit highlights Taylor’s ability to bring depth and intrigue to any role she undertakes.
22Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Noel CowardAdapted from Tennessee Williams' play The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore, Boom! stars Elizabeth Taylor as Flora "Sissy" Goforth – an aging, wealthy woman facing her mortality while living on an isolated Mediterranean island. Featuring Richard Burton as the mysterious visitor who arrives to confront her about her past, this film showcases Taylor's commitment to taking on challenging roles during a time when her star power was at its peak.
23Elizabeth Taylor, Henry Fonda, Helmut BergerIn this thought-provoking drama directed by Larry Peerce, Elizabeth Taylor plays Barbara Sawyer – a woman desperate to reclaim her youth through plastic surgery. As she grapples with the consequences of her decision and contemplates the true meaning of beauty and happiness, Taylor delivers a nuanced performance that resonates with viewers long after the credits roll.
24Elizabeth Taylor, Laurence Harvey, Billie WhitelawA chilling psychological thriller based on Lucille Fletcher's play, Night Watch stars Elizabeth Taylor as Ellen Wheeler – an insomniac who witnesses what appears to be a murder in the house next door. With its suspenseful plot and Taylor's gripping performance, this film offers a fascinating glimpse into the darker side of human nature that is sure to keep viewers on edge.
25Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett, Elizabeth TaylorIn this charming sequel to Father of the Bride, Elizabeth Taylor reprises her role as Kay Banks alongside Spencer Tracy's Stanley Banks as they navigate the challenges of impending grandparenthood. Filled with heartwarming moments and relatable humor, Father's Little Dividend showcases the enduring appeal of Taylor and her ability to captivate audiences in any genre.
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26Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Morgan, Tom DrakeIn another heartwarming collaboration with canine hero Lassie, Courage of Lassie showcases a young Elizabeth Taylor as Kathie Merrick – who discovers an injured collie and nurses him back to health, only for the two to be separated during World War II. Filled with emotion and adventure, this film captures Taylor's early acting talent and showcases her timeless appeal.
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27Elizabeth Taylor, Mark Harmon, Rip TornBased on Tennessee Williams' acclaimed play, Sweet Bird of Youth stars Paul Newman as Chance Wayne – an aspiring actor who returns to his hometown accompanied by Elizabeth Taylor's fading movie star Alexandra Del Lago. Tackling themes such as disillusionment and lost opportunities through powerful performances from its leads, this compelling drama demonstrates Taylor’s continued skill in navigating complex roles.
28Elizabeth Taylor, Carrie Fisher, Shirley MacLaineA made-for-television comedy featuring legendary actresses Debbie Reynolds, Shirley MacLaine, Joan Collins, and Elizabeth Taylor – These Old Broads sees them playing aging Hollywood rivals who must come together for a television special despite their tumultuous pasts. As Beryl Mason – a high-powered agent responsible for organizing the event – Taylor’s comedic timing and unyielding star power are on full display.
29William Powell, Irene Dunne, Elizabeth TaylorAdapted from Clarence Day Jr.'s popular memoir, Life with Father is a delightful period comedy that sees young Elizabeth Taylor playing Mary Skinner – a love interest for William Powell's son Day (Derek Scott). With its charming portrayal of family life in Victorian-era New York City, this film highlights Taylor's early ability to light up the screen with her engaging presence.
30Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Caine, Susannah YorkIn this British drama directed by Brian G. Hutton, Elizabeth Taylor stars as Zee Blakely – the brash wife of Michael Caine's architect Robert Blakely who becomes entangled in a love triangle with Susannah York's Stella Rodney. Showcasing biting wit and strong performances from its leads, Zee and Co. exemplifies Taylor’s continued ability to captivate audiences even later in her career.
