Henry Fonda Movies List, Ranked
1Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, John CarradineIn this powerful adaptation of John Steinbeck's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Henry Fonda delivers a career-defining performance as Tom Joad, a Depression-era worker who is forced to migrate with his family from their Oklahoma farm to California in search of work and dignity. Directed by the legendary John Ford, this poignant film not only captures the plight of the dispossessed but also offers a searing indictment of societal injustice. Fonda's portrayal of Joad has become synonymous with resilience and determination in the face of adversity, making The Grapes of Wrath an essential entry in any collection celebrating classic American cinema.
More The Grapes of Wrath
- #70 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #62 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #55 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
2Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed BegleyRegarded as one of the greatest courtroom dramas ever produced, 12 Angry Men showcases Henry Fonda's superb acting skills as Juror #8, a lone dissenting member on a seemingly open-and-shut murder trial jury. Directed by Sidney Lumet, the film masterfully unravels its taut narrative through incisive dialogue and nuanced character development, as each juror is forced to confront their own biases and prejudices while deliberating over the defendant's guilt or innocence. With its timeless themes and indelible performances from an outstanding ensemble cast led by Fonda, 12 Angry Men remains an enduring example of intelligent filmmaking at its best.
More 12 Angry Men- #627 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #11 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
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3Henry Fonda, Claudia Cardinale, Charles BronsonThis sprawling epic western from director Sergio Leone features Henry Fonda in an unexpected role as Frank, a ruthless gunslinger who will stop at nothing to gain control over valuable land. Aided by Ennio Morricone's haunting score and Leone's signature visual style that blends sweeping vistas with extreme close-ups, Once Upon a Time in the West weaves together multiple storylines involving complex characters portrayed by Charles Bronson, Claudia Cardinale, and Jason Robards. The film provides plenty of twists and turns as the plot unfolds, and Fonda's chilling performance as the menacing antagonist serves to heighten the tension in this unforgettable masterpiece of the genre.
- #30 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #112 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #27 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
4Henry Fonda, Dana Andrews, Harry MorganDirector William A. Wellman's taut western drama The Ox-Bow Incident offers a riveting examination of mob mentality and frontier justice. Henry Fonda stars as Gil Carter, a drifter who becomes embroiled in a frenzied lynching when he and his friend are swept up by a vengeful posse accusing three men of murder. With its stark black-and-white cinematography and unflinching portrayal of human cruelty, the film stands as a potent cautionary tale against blind conformity and vigilantism. Notably, Fonda's nuanced performance grounds the story with a sense of moral urgency that continues to resonate with audiences today.
5Henry Fonda, Jack Lemmon, James CagneyIn this beloved adaptation of Thomas Heggen's novel-turned-play, Henry Fonda reprises his Broadway role as Lieutenant (j.g.) Doug Roberts, an idealistic Navy officer stationed on a cargo ship during World War II who longs for more meaningful action. Directed by John Ford and Mervyn LeRoy, Mister Roberts seamlessly blends comedy and drama while showcasing stellar performances from an all-star cast including Jack Lemmon, William Powell, and James Cagney. The film effectively captures both personal sacrifices made by those serving far from home during wartime and their camaraderie under trying circumstances; it remains an enduring favorite among fans of classic cinema.
6Henry Fonda, Linda Darnell, Victor MatureLegendary director John Ford's My Darling Clementine is a visually stunning retelling of the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, with Henry Fonda taking on the iconic role of lawman Wyatt Earp. Set against the backdrop of Tombstone, Arizona, in 1882, this classic film examines themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption through its compelling narrative and unforgettable performances by Fonda, Victor Mature as Doc Holliday, and Walter Brennan as Old Man Clanton. With its striking cinematography and meticulously crafted screenplay, My Darling Clementine remains an integral part of American cinematic history.
- #80 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #405 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #57 of 91 onThe 90 Best Black And White Movies
7Claudette Colbert, Henry Fonda, John CarradineThis historical drama from acclaimed director John Ford is set during the American Revolutionary War and stars Henry Fonda as Gilbert Martin, a young farmer who must protect his family amid harrowing struggles in upstate New York's Mohawk Valley. Co-starring Claudette Colbert as his wife Lana, Drums Along the Mohawk effectively portrays the resilience and determination of early settlers while offering stunning Technicolor visuals that bring the harsh frontier environment to life. The captivating performances and sweeping storytelling elevate this film into a memorable exploration of America's formative years.
- #128 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #55 of 76 onThe Best Movies About Historical Battles
- #3 of 20 onThe Best American Revolution Movies
8Katharine Hepburn, Henry Fonda, Jane FondaIn this poignant drama adapted from Ernest Thompson's play, Henry Fonda delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Norman Thayer Jr., a cantankerous retiree who forms an unlikely bond with his estranged daughter's boyfriend's son during their summer stay at a lakeside cottage. Co-starring Katharine Hepburn and Jane Fonda in equally powerful roles, On Golden Pond delves into complex themes such as aging, family dynamics, and reconciliation with grace and humor. Directed by Mark Rydell, it offers both touching moments and gentle wit that showcase each actor’s remarkable talent while remaining a timeless tale about human connection.
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9John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Shirley TempleFort Apache, a captivating western directed by John Ford, stars Henry Fonda as the rigid and uncompromising Lieutenant Colonel Owen Thursday, who is assigned to command a remote outpost inhabited by spirited cavalrymen and their families. Alongside John Wayne as Captain Kirby York, Fonda delivers an exceptional performance that navigates the challenges of duty, honor, and leadership in this thrilling and visually arresting film. Its compelling narrative and exceptional ensemble cast make Fort Apache an enduring classic among fans of the western genre.
More Fort Apache- #53 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #116 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #3 of 49 onThe Best 1940s Western Movies
10Barbara Stanwyck, Henry Fonda, Charles CoburnIn this sparkling screwball comedy from renowned writer-director Preston Sturges, Henry Fonda stars as Charles Pike, a shy millionaire who becomes the target of a clever con artist (played brilliantly by Barbara Stanwyck). As their intricate game of cat-and-mouse unfolds amid witty banter and romantic misunderstandings, The Lady Eve showcases both Fonda's and Stanwyck's impressive comedic talents. Bolstered by its sharp wit, impeccable timing, and undeniable chemistry between its leads, this delightful film stands tall among Hollywood's greatest comedies.
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- #586 of 632 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #29 of 75 onThe 75 Best Classic Romance Movies
11Bette Davis, Henry Fonda, George BrentThis sumptuous period drama directed by William Wyler features Henry Fonda alongside Bette Davis in her Academy Award-winning role as Julie Marsden, a headstrong Southern belle seeking redemption after causing scandal with her willful behavior. Set against the backdrop of antebellum New Orleans society in the 1850s, Jezebel offers stirring performances from its talented cast while delving into themes of love, loss, and personal transformation. The lush cinematography and evocative score further enhance this unforgettable tale of passion and pride.
More Jezebel- Dig Deeper...Famous Movies Filmed in New Orleans
- And Deeper...Famous Movies Filmed in Louisiana
- #307 of 471 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
12Henry Fonda, Vera Miles, Anthony QuayleDirected by Alfred Hitchcock, The Wrong Man presents a decidedly more somber tone than his other films through its true story-inspired tale about an innocent man (Henry Fonda) wrongly accused of armed robbery. Fonda's performance as the beleaguered musician Manny Balestrero is a masterclass in conveying raw emotion and vulnerability, while Vera Miles shines as his wife Rose, who suffers a mental breakdown due to the ordeal. Featuring Hitchcock's trademark suspenseful storytelling, this haunting film remains a powerful exploration of injustice and its devastating consequences.
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- #12 of 15 onUnderrated Movies Based On Real-Life Trials
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13Henry Fonda, Alice Brady, Marjorie WeaverIn this insightful biographical film directed by John Ford, Henry Fonda takes on the titular role of Abraham Lincoln before his rise to the presidency, focusing on his early days as a young lawyer in Springfield, Illinois. With an engaging script that explores Lincoln's personal relationships and professional challenges, Young Mr. Lincoln offers a fascinating glimpse into the formative years of one of America's most revered leaders. Fonda's nuanced portrayal captures both the folksy charm and the keen intellect that would later define Lincoln's legacy.
More Young Mr. Lincoln- #79 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
- #53 of 65 onThe Most Patriotic Movies Of All Time
- #13 of 66 onThe 60+ Best Movies About The President
14Tyrone Power, Henry Fonda, Nancy KellyThis colorful western chronicles the notorious exploits of legendary outlaw Jesse James (played by Tyrone Power) and his brother Frank (Henry Fonda). Directed by Henry King and featuring lush Technicolor cinematography, Jesse James balances thrilling action sequences with heartfelt drama as it delves into themes of family loyalty, revenge, and redemption. Fonda's charismatic turn as Frank James adds depth and complexity to this larger-than-life tale based on real-life events.
More Jesse James- #162 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #15 of 23 on23 Movie Sets That Have Killed Animals During Production
- #23 of 112 onThe 100+ Best Movies of 1939
15John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, Henry FondaThis epic war film recounts the events leading up to D-Day from multiple perspectives – including those of Allied soldiers, German officers, French civilians, and resistance fighters – making for a gripping ensemble piece with an all-star cast featuring John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, Richard Burton, Sean Connery, and Henry Fonda as General Theodore Roosevelt Jr., among others. Directed by Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, and Bernhard Wicki, The Longest Day offers a sweeping panorama of World War II's most significant turning point in a meticulously crafted and emotionally resonant tribute to the bravery of those who served.
More The Longest Day- #3 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #9 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #20 of 59 onThe Best Movies Based on Non-Fiction Books
16Henry Fonda, Anthony Perkins, Betsy PalmerAnthony Mann directs this compelling western about a bounty hunter (Henry Fonda) who reluctantly becomes a mentor to an inexperienced lawman (Anthony Perkins) in a small frontier town plagued by outlaws. As they navigate their uneasy partnership amid escalating violence, The Tin Star examines themes like moral ambiguity and redemption through its taut narrative and exceptional performances from both Fonda and Perkins. The stark black-and-white cinematography further underscores the film’s gritty atmosphere and suspenseful tone.
More The Tin Star- #180 of 286 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #31 of 63 onThe Best Western Movies of the 1950s
- #25 of 70 onThe 70 Best Movies of 1957
17Audrey Hepburn, Henry Fonda, Mel FerrerAdapted from Leo Tolstoy's monumental novel, this lavish film production stars Henry Fonda as Pierre Bezukhov, a socially awkward but well-meaning nobleman caught up in the turbulent events of early 19th-century Russia during the Napoleonic Wars. Audrey Hepburn co-stars as the spirited Natasha Rostova, while Mel Ferrer plays Prince Andrei Bolkonsky. Directed by King Vidor and featuring stunning visuals and an engrossing script that captures the novel's essence, War and Peace is an ambitious cinematic undertaking with memorable performances from its talented cast.
18Henry Fonda, Walter Matthau, Dan O'HerlihyIn this tense Cold War thriller directed by Sidney Lumet, Henry Fonda plays the President of the United States grappling with an international crisis when an accidental nuclear strike is launched against Moscow due to a technical malfunction. As he races against time to prevent all-out war between superpowers, Fonda delivers a riveting performance that captures both the gravity of his character's responsibilities and his humanity under pressure. Supported by strong performances from Walter Matthau and Dan O'Herlihy, Fail Safe remains an intense exploration of global politics during one of history's most precarious eras.
More Fail Safe- #193 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #72 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #35 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
19Henry Fonda, Cliff Robertson, Edie AdamsBased on Gore Vidal's acclaimed play about power struggles within American politics, The Best Man features Henry Fonda as William Russell, a candidate vying for his party's presidential nomination against his ruthless opponent Joe Cantwell (Cliff Robertson). As their battle for supremacy intensifies amid dirty tricks and ethical dilemmas, this provocative drama – directed by Franklin J. Schaffner – offers an insightful and timely dissection of the American political process. Fonda's exceptional performance as the principled but flawed Russell is a highlight among this film's many strengths.
20Henry Fonda, Robert Shaw, Robert RyanThis gripping World War II drama chronicles the events of the titular battle, in which German forces launched a surprise offensive against Allied troops in Belgium during the winter of 1944. Henry Fonda stars as Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Kiley, who works tirelessly to counteract enemy maneuvers amid treacherous conditions and overwhelming odds. Directed by Ken Annakin, Battle of the Bulge features intense action sequences, impressive special effects for its time, and strong performances from its ensemble cast, including Robert Shaw, Dana Andrews, and Charles Bronson.
More Battle of the Bulge- #42 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #42 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #13 of 20 onThe 20 Best Movies About Battleships
21Henry Fonda, Gene Tierney, Jackie CooperIn this sequel to Jesse James, Henry Fonda reprises his role as Frank James, who seeks revenge for his brother's murder at the hands of unscrupulous railroad agents. Directed by Fritz Lang and featuring Gene Tierney in her film debut, The Return of Frank James combines elements of both westerns and crime dramas with compelling storytelling that delves into themes such as loyalty and justice. Fonda's magnetic performance anchors this thrilling tale with an emotional resonance that will captivate fans of classic cinema.
22Carroll Baker, Lee J. Cobb, Henry FondaThis sprawling epic traces several generations' westward migration through interconnected vignettes featuring a star-studded ensemble cast led by Henry Fonda alongside James Stewart, Gregory Peck, John Wayne, Debbie Reynolds, Carroll Baker, and many more. Directed by John Ford (among other directors) with groundbreaking Cinerama widescreen technology that envelops viewers in its sweeping landscapes and breathtaking visuals, How the West Was Won provides an immersive experience while highlighting America's frontier spirit.
More How the West Was Won- #7 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #46 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #41 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
23Richard Widmark, Henry Fonda, Anthony QuinnIn this unconventional western directed by Edward Dmytryk, Henry Fonda plays Clay Blaisedell, a gun-for-hire who becomes marshal of the lawless town of Warlock to restore order. Alongside Richard Widmark as his friend Johnny Gannon and Anthony Quinn as his loyal companion Tom Morgan, Fonda delivers an engrossing performance that showcases his range as an actor. With its morally complex characters and a compelling narrative exploring themes like friendship and redemption, Warlock offers fresh perspectives on the classic western genre.
24Henry Fonda, Maureen O'Hara, James MacArthurHenry Fonda stars as Clay Spencer in this heartwarming family drama set against the backdrop of rural Wyoming. Inspired by Earl Hamner Jr.'s novel (which would later serve as the basis for "The Waltons" television series), Spencer's Mountain explores themes such as perseverance and sacrifice while showcasing strong performances from its ensemble cast, which includes Maureen O'Hara and James MacArthur alongside Fonda. Directed by Delmer Daves, it offers a touching portrait of American family life.
25Frank Sinatra, Betty White, Henry FondaOtto Preminger directs this enthralling political drama based on Allen Drury's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, focusing on the Senate confirmation hearings of a controversial candidate for Secretary of State (played by Henry Fonda). As senators grapple with personal dilemmas and intense scrutiny, this absorbing film delves deeply into the machinations of power in Washington, D.C. Featuring standout performances from its ensemble cast – including Charles Laughton, Walter Pidgeon, and Franchot Tone – Advise & Consent remains a timeless examination of American politics.
26Henry Fonda, Dolores del Río, Pedro ArmendárizDirected by John Ford and adapted from Graham Greene's novel The Power and the Glory, this atmospheric film features Henry Fonda as an unnamed priest on the run from anti-clerical authorities during Mexico's Cristero War. Expertly blending elements of drama, suspense, and spirituality, The Fugitive showcases Ford's visual mastery and presents a gripping tale of faith under fire with an outstanding performance from Fonda in the lead role.
27Tony Curtis, Henry Fonda, George KennedyIn this chilling crime thriller based on true events, Henry Fonda stars as John S. Bottomly, the detective tasked with apprehending infamous serial killer Albert DeSalvo (played by Tony Curtis). As they engage in a tense cat-and-mouse game throughout 1960s Boston, both actors deliver riveting performances that underscore the film's psychological depth and dramatic intensity. Directed by Richard Fleischer and featuring a haunting score by Lionel Newman, The Boston Strangler remains a powerful entry in the annals of American crime cinema.
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- #84 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
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28Henry Fonda, Terence Hill, Jean MartinThis lighthearted western comedy directed by Tonino Valerii features Henry Fonda as Jack Beauregard, an aging gunslinger whose reputation attracts the attention of an enthusiastic young fan named Nobody (Terence Hill). As they embark on various adventures together amid witty banter and slapstick humor, My Name Is Nobody provides ample opportunity for both Fonda and Hill to showcase their comedic chops while paying homage to classic western tropes.
29John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Patricia NealOtto Preminger directs this star-studded World War II epic set during the early days of America's involvement in the Pacific theater. Featuring Henry Fonda as Admiral Chester Nimitz alongside John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Patricia Neal, Tom Tryon, Paula Prentiss, and many more outstanding talents in its ensemble cast, In Harm's Way delivers intense action sequences and stirring moments of human drama amid its sweeping historical scope. Its potent blend of romance, adventure, and heroism make it a landmark example of wartime filmmaking at its finest.
More In Harm's Way- #91 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #95 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #4 of 8 onThe Best Movies About Pearl Harbor, Ranked By History Buffs
