The Best 1930s Thriller Movies, Ranked
- 1Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Dame May Whitty
Alfred Hitchcock's 1938 classic The Lady Vanishes is a quintessential example of the mystery thriller genre during the 1930s era. With an engaging plot that centers around a young woman's search for her missing acquaintance aboard a train, the film showcases the brilliant storytelling and direction that Hitchcock is known for. Boasting a cast of memorable characters, including Michael Redgrave and Dame May Whitty, this suspenseful tale keeps viewers guessing until its satisfying conclusion. Its expert melding of tension, humor, and romance has cemented The Lady Vanishes as an essential entry in any discussion of the best 30s thriller movies.
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- 2Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Ida Lupino
1939's The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes marks an exceptional addition to the legacy of Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic detective character. Starring Basil Rathbone as the ingenious sleuth and Nigel Bruce as his loyal companion Dr. Watson, this film adaptation pits them against their arch-nemesis Professor Moriarty (played by George Zucco) in a rousing game of wits and deception. Directed by Alfred L. Werker, this movie is cherished for its captivating storyline and dynamic performances that exemplify the best qualities found within 30s thriller movies.
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- 3Maureen O'Sullivan, Frank O'Connor, Nat Pendleton
Based on Dashiell Hammett's novel of the same name, The Thin Man (1934) is an exceptional blend of crime-solving drama and screwball comedy elements that remain endearing even after nearly a century since its release date. This delightful whodunit features suave detective Nick Charles (played by William Powell) alongside his equally savvy wife Nora (Myrna Loy) embarking on an investigation into a murder case filled with twists and turns aplenty. Directed by W.S. Van Dyke, this witty and sophisticated film offers a thrilling and humorous take on the classic detective story, while showcasing the chemistry between its two charismatic leads that would lead to numerous sequels in the years to come.
- 4Robert Donat, Madeleine Carroll, Godfrey Tearle
The 39 Steps, another enthralling creation by Alfred Hitchcock from 1935, masterfully intertwines intrigue with wit to deliver a fast-paced spy adventure that remains influential to this day. Starring Robert Donat as Richard Hannay, an innocent man caught up in a web of espionage and murder, this captivating film takes viewers on a thrilling ride across the Scottish countryside while introducing iconic cinematographic techniques – such as rapid editing and chase sequences – which have become synonymous with the genre. Though it deviates significantly from John Buchan's original novel, The 39 Steps stands tall as an enduring masterpiece within both literature-to-film adaptations and vintage suspense cinema.
- 5Sylvia Sidney, Oscar Homolka, Desmond Tester
Alfred Hitchcock delivers another masterstroke with Sabotage (1936), a tense spy thriller based on Joseph Conrad's novel The Secret Agent. This gripping tale follows Sylvia Sidney as Mrs. Verloc, whose husband Karl Verloc (Oscar Homolka) becomes embroiled in terrorism activities across London under the guise of owning an innocuous cinema space. As tensions rise and the stakes become dangerously higher, Hitchcock's penchant for creating psychological suspense is on full display, rendering Sabotage an essential entry among 30s thriller movies.
- 6Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, Inge Landgut
Fritz Lang's groundbreaking 1931 German film M serves as a prime example of early cinema's ability to tackle controversial subject matter with skill and nuance. Centering on a desperate citywide manhunt for a chilling child murderer portrayed hauntingly by Peter Lorre, M delves into themes such as criminality, societal morality, and vigilante justice. With stunning cinematography and innovative sound design that heightens every heart-pounding scene – including the killer's distinctive whistling motif – this film remains an astonishing testament to Lang's visionary prowess in creating suspenseful thrillers which remain relevant today.
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- 7William Powell, Myrna Loy, James Stewart
Following the success of The Thin Man, director W.S. Van Dyke returned with After the Thin Man (1936), a sublime continuation of Nick and Nora Charles' exploits, played expertly by William Powell and Myrna Loy. This time, the couple is called upon to solve a daunting case involving a missing husband and subsequent murder, all while navigating their uniquely humorous relationship dynamics. Clever dialogue, intricate plotting, and endearing performances make this sequel an enjoyable romp that maintains the charm of its predecessor while adding fresh elements to keep audiences enthralled.
- 8William Powell, Ginger Rogers, Paul Kelly
In 1935's snappy mystery thriller Star of Midnight, Clive Brook portrays suave New York lawyer Clay Dalzell, who is enlisted by his friend to locate a missing actress. As he delves into the convoluted case with the help of an enthusiastic socialite (played by Ginger Rogers), Dalzell soon finds himself embroiled in murder and deceit. Directed by Stephen Roberts, this engaging picture combines elements of comedy, romance, and suspense to create a memorable cinematic experience for fans of 30s thrillers.
- 9Wallace Ford, Olga Baclanova, Leila Hyams
Tod Browning's 1932 opus Freaks offers a chilling dive into the world of circus performers and challenges societal norms in ways that were daring for its time. Following a trapeze artist's exploitative marriage to a sideshow performer in hopes of inheriting his fortune, Freaks examines themes such as community bonds among outcasts and ultimately delivers retribution in a suspenseful climax, illustrating humanity's capacity for both cruelty and compassion. Its controversial nature has earned it cult classic status over time as viewers continue to appreciate its audacious approach to storytelling.
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- 10Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, Glenda Farrell
Michael Curtiz helms Mystery of the Wax Museum (1933), an eerie whodunit revolving around wax sculptures created from human bodies stolen from morgues by an enigmatic artist (Lionel Atwill). Fay Wray stars as reporter Florence Dempsey, who uncovers sinister secrets while investigating recent disappearances in New York City. With innovative two-color Technicolor cinematography capturing unsettling visuals and an atmosphere rife with tension, this film remains a staple within 30s thriller cinema.
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- 11Peter Lorre, Edna Best, Pierre Fresnay
Alfred Hitchcock's 1934 spy thriller The Man Who Knew Too Much exemplifies the auteur's early mastery of creating nail-biting tension. Starring Leslie Banks and Edna Best as British vacationers who accidentally stumble upon an assassination plot while in Switzerland, they embark on a perilous journey to thwart the plan while protecting their kidnapped daughter. This gripping film showcases Hitchcock's ability to craft tense sequences – such as the famous Albert Hall scene – that leave viewers breathless and eager for more.
- 12William Powell, Myrna Loy, Virginia Grey
Completing the trilogy of Nick and Nora Charles mysteries, W.S Van Dyke returned with 1939's Another Thin Man, starring William Powell and Myrna Loy once more as cinema's favorite detective duo. Tasked with solving yet another perplexing murder case amidst an array of eccentric suspects, their investigation is further complicated by new parenthood and ever-present comedic escapades. Infused with sparkling dialogue and a dash of romance, this delightful entry is a fitting continuation of the Thin Man saga, providing ample thrills for fans of the series and 30s cinema alike.
- 13Barbara Stanwyck, Ben Lyon, Joan Blondell
Barbara Stanwyck stars in William A. Wellman's Night Nurse (1931), a riveting pre-Code drama-thriller that follows her character Lora Hart as she uncovers a nefarious scheme involving child neglect at a wealthy family's estate during her tenure as a private nurse. Featuring Clark Gable in an early villainous role, Night Nurse remains notable for its uncompromising look at societal evils and its unflinching portrayal of strong female characters navigating adversity.
- 14Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, David Manners
Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff team up in Edgar G. Ulmer's atmospheric horror-thriller The Black Cat (1934) for an unforgettable gothic experience steeped in suspense. With a plot involving two former friends – one imprisoned for war crimes while the other exploits his wife – their chance reunion results in a twisted tale of revenge that culminates in a shocking finale. With its impressive art deco sets, chilling score, and gripping performances by its two legendary stars, The Black Cat offers sinister delights amidst 30s thriller offerings.
- 15Joel McCrea, Fay Wray, Leslie Banks
Based on Richard Connell's popular short story, Irving Pichel and Ernest B. Schoedsack's The Most Dangerous Game (1932) is an action-packed thriller that explores the depths of human cruelty when hunter becomes hunted. Starring Joel McCrea as shipwreck survivor Robert Rainsford, he finds himself stranded on an island inhabited by eccentric aristocrat Count Zaroff (Leslie Banks), who expresses his love for hunting humans as sport. This high-stakes game of life-and-death transforms into an exhilarating battle between predator and prey that still resonates with modern audiences today.
- 16Derrick de Marney, Nova Pilbeam, Percy Marmont
Young and Innocent (1937) marks yet another successful entry in Alfred Hitchcock’s early British filmography; this murder mystery follows Derrick De Marney as Robert Tisdall – wrongly accused of murder – who goes on the run with Erica Burgoyne (Nova Pilbeam). As they work to clear his name together, Hitchcock blends thrilling moments with tender romance to create a captivating and suspenseful adventure. Featuring innovative camera work – notably the impressive crane shot revealing the true murderer – Young and Innocent stands as a testament to Hitchcock's burgeoning prowess in the world of cinematic thrillers.
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- 17Herbert Marshall, Norah Baring, Esme Percy
Alfred Hitchcock’s 1930 thriller Murder! showcases his early penchant for embracing dark themes and innovative filmmaking techniques. In this adaptation of Clemence Dane’s play, Herbert Marshall stars as Sir John Menier, an actor-turned-juror who becomes convinced that the accused actress (played by Norah Baring) is innocent of murder. As he delves into investigating the crime himself, this riveting tale keeps audiences enthralled with its twists and turns, bolstered by Hitchcock’s expert touch at creating tension.
- 18Peter Lorre, Frances Drake, Colin Clive
Based on Maurice Renard's novel Les Mains d'Orlac, 1935's Mad Love features Peter Lorre in a chilling performance as Dr. Gogol, a brilliant surgeon obsessed with an actress portrayed by Frances Drake. Directed by Karl Freund, this eerie psychological thriller explores themes such as obsession, identity, and the blurred line between love and madness through striking visuals and atmospheric storytelling. Boasting influential cinematography that captures its unsettling atmosphere with aplomb, Mad Love remains a haunting staple among 30s thrillers.
- 19Boris Karloff, Melvyn Douglas, Charles Laughton
A prime example of atmospheric horror meets suspenseful thrills can be found in James Whale's 1932 film The Old Dark House. Alongside Boris Karloff's sinister portrayal of Morgan – a mute butler – this gothic tale involves five stranded travelers seeking refuge from a storm at a foreboding mansion inhabited by an eccentric family with dark secrets. With its expertly crafted blend of eerie ambiance, macabre humor, and chilling plot twists; this film continues to enthrall audiences even decades after its release.
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- 20James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, Priscilla Lane
The Roaring Twenties (1939) is a riveting crime thriller directed by Raoul Walsh that chronicles the rise and fall of a disillusioned war veteran turned Bootlegger, portrayed convincingly by James Cagney. Co-starring Humphrey Bogart and Priscilla Lane, this film captures the essence of a tumultuous era marked by Prohibition, gangsters, and societal upheaval while delivering an engrossing narrative filled with emotionally charged moments. Its blend of historical context and thrilling storytelling make The Roaring Twenties an essential addition to any discussion of 30s thrillers.
- 21Bob Hope, Paulette Goddard, Gale Sondergaard
Considered one of the finest 'old dark house' films in cinema history, Paul Leni's The Cat and the Canary (1927) masterfully combines elements of horror with suspenseful thrills – all within a silent film format. The story unfolds as potential inheritors gather to hear their benefactor's will but are soon subjected to murder, intrigue, and hidden passages within the mansion. Though released just before the 1930s, this iconic thriller laid the groundwork for future genre entries throughout the following decade.
- 22Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Lola Lane
Marked Woman (1937) is a captivating tale from director Lloyd Bacon that follows Bette Davis as Mary Dwight Strauber – a hostess entangled in criminal activities led by mobster Johnny Vanning (Eduardo Ciannelli). As she navigates her dangerous world while aiding district attorney David Graham (played by Humphrey Bogart), this gritty drama-thriller delivers tension through tight storytelling populated with vivid characters who endure harrowing circumstances during their quests for justice.
- 23Henry Kendall, Joan Barry, Percy Marmont
Alfred Hitchcock’s Rich and Strange (1931) may outwardly appear as a light-hearted comedy-drama, but beneath the surface lies a suspenseful tale of marital strain and intrigue. The film follows a couple (played by Henry Kendall and Joan Barry) who set out on an exotic voyage after receiving a sudden inheritance, only to find themselves tested by various misadventures – including shipwreck, robbery, and romantic entanglements. As their journey takes darker turns, Hitchcock explores themes of morality within relationships as he skillfully weaves elements of suspense throughout the narrative.
- 24Claudette Colbert, Don Ameche, John Barrymore
Mitchell Leisen directs 1939's Midnight, an elegant comedy-thriller that stars Claudette Colbert as Eve Peabody, an American showgirl in Paris who finds herself mistaken for a baroness amid glittering high society soirées. As she navigates her newfound identity with the help of taxi driver Tibor Czerny (Don Ameche), this delightful film combines wit and charm with surprising twists in its plotline – all while showcasing dazzling performances from its talented cast.
- 25Ray Milland, Alan Mowbray, Mona Barrie
Charlie Chan in London (1934) stars Warner Oland as the iconic Chinese-American detective tasked with solving a complex murder case in England's foggy capital. Directed by Eugene Forde, this film exhibits intricate plotting filled with red herrings, clever deductions, and surprising revelations that maintain viewers' interest throughout its runtime. With its atmospheric setting and ingenious storytelling techniques, Charlie Chan in London remains an engaging addition to the renowned detective series within 30s thriller movies.
- 26Chester Morris, Una Merkel, Maude Eburne
Roland West's 1930 mystery thriller The Bat Whispers transports audiences into a world rife with masked criminals, dark secrets, and hidden rooms as it follows an intrepid amateur sleuth seeking to unmask the elusive mastermind known as 'The Bat.' Boasting bold cinematography defined by sweeping camera movements and innovative sound techniques that heighten its suspenseful atmosphere, this film stands as a testament to early cinema's impressive achievements in the thriller genre.
- 27
Devil Doll
Jarl Olsen, Ashley Hunter, Nina MurphyTod Browning's Devil Doll (1936) delves into the world of ventriloquism and explores themes such as obsession, jealousy, and madness within a suspenseful tale that unfolds amid high-stakes performances on the vaudeville stage. With Lionel Barrymore delivering a gripping dual performance as both Professor Paul Lavond and Madame Mandelip – the creator of life-like dolls with sinister intentions – this thriller maintains an aura of tension throughout its runtime while offering viewers a glimpse into the darker side of performance art.
- 28Myrna Loy, Irene Dunne, Ricardo Cortez
Directed by George Archainbaud, Thirteen Women (1932) is an engrossing pre-Code thriller centered around a group of former schoolmates who become targets of murder through sinister manipulation at the hands of an embittered woman from their past. Starring Irene Dunne and Myrna Loy in captivating performances, this film features intricate plotting, psychological tension, and complex character dynamics that keep audiences engaged as they bear witness to the consequences of vengeance.
- 29Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, Lee Tracy
Michael Curtiz’s Doctor X (1932) is an eerie horror-thriller that captures audiences’ imaginations with its unsettling blend of mystery and science fiction elements. Starring Lionel Atwill as Dr. Xavier – a scientist seeking to unmask a murderer within his ranks – alongside Fay Wray as intrepid reporter Lee Taylor; this atmospheric film employs innovative two-color Technicolor cinematography to convey its macabre surroundings while maintaining tension throughout its narrative.
- 30Warner Baxter, Myrna Loy, Charles Butterworth
W.S Van Dyke directs 1933’s Penthouse, which follows attorney Jack Durant (played by Warner Baxter) who becomes involved in high-stakes intrigue when he defends accused racketeer Tony Gazotti (Nat Pendleton). As Durant navigates a world of gangsters and corruption, he finds an unexpected ally in sultry nightclub singer Gertie Waxted (Myrna Loy). With its gripping storyline, snappy dialogue, and memorable performances, this crime thriller exemplifies the captivating elements that define 30s cinema.
