Jean Arthur Movies List, Ranked
1Jean Arthur, Joel McCrea, Charles CoburnJean Arthur shines in George Stevens' wartime romantic comedy The More the Merrier. Set in Washington D.C., during World War II, Arthur stars as Connie Milligan – a government worker attempting to navigate life amidst a housing shortage crisis. When she reluctantly agrees to sublet part of her apartment to two men (played by Joel McCrea and Charles Coburn), hilarity ensues as they struggle with living arrangements and unexpected romantic entanglements. This Oscar-nominated film masterfully balances humor with heart and showcases Arthur's comedic timing alongside her undeniable on-screen chemistry with co-stars McCrea and Coburn.
2James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude RainsIn the interesting political drama, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Jean Arthur delivers an exceptional performance that showcases her acting prowess. The film, directed by Frank Capra, tells the story of a naïve man (played by James Stewart) who is appointed to fill a vacancy in the United States Senate and soon encounters corruption in politics. Arthur's portrayal of Clarissa Saunders, a seasoned secretary who helps guide Smith through the complexities of government, is both engaging and endearing. With its strong moral message and superb character development, this timeless classic remains relevant even decades after its release, highlighting Arthur's enduring appeal.
3Gary Cooper, Jean Arthur, George BancroftFrank Capra's 1936 screwball comedy classic Mr. Deeds Goes to Town features Jean Arthur as Babe Bennett - an ambitious reporter seeking the scoop on Longfellow Deeds (played by Gary Cooper). When Deeds inherits a fortune from his deceased uncle, he moves from his small town to New York City where chaos follows him due to his eccentric behavior and sudden wealth. As Bennett attempts to uncover more about this enigmatic figure for her newspaper column, she unexpectedly finds herself falling for him while questioning her own motives throughout their developing relationship. The undeniable charisma and witty banter between Arthur and Cooper make this film a must-watch for any cinema enthusiast.
4Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Ronald ColmanGeorge Stevens' The Talk of the Town is a thought-provoking blend of drama, comedy, and romance, featuring Jean Arthur as Nora Shelley – an inquisitive school teacher caught in the middle of a love triangle involving her childhood friend Michael (Cary Grant) and esteemed law professor Lightcap (Ronald Colman). When Michael is falsely accused of arson, he seeks refuge in Nora's home just as Lightcap takes up residence there as well. As tension mounts between the characters, Jean Arthur delivers a multifaceted performance that highlights her versatile acting abilities. This enthralling tale explores themes such as justice, morality, and love while remaining engaging throughout its entirety.
5Jean Arthur, Lionel Barrymore, James StewartFrank Capra's 1938 Academy Award-winning film You Can't Take It With You showcases Jean Arthur's comedic talents alongside screen legend James Stewart. Alice Sycamore (Arthur) hails from an eccentric family led by the wise Grandpa Vanderhof (Lionel Barrymore), while Tony Kirby (Stewart) is heir to his father's successful yet ruthless business empire. As these two opposites fall in love, they struggle to reconcile their wildly different backgrounds amidst societal expectations and familial pressure. This delightful screwball comedy offers both laughter and poignant life lessons that are sure to resonate with audiences today.
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6Jean Arthur, Bob Cummings, Charles CoburnSam Wood's insightful 1941 comedy-drama The Devil and Miss Jones explores themes of wealth, class, and human connection through the lens of a department store. Jean Arthur stars as Mary Jones, a dedicated employee who unwittingly befriends her company's wealthy owner John P. Merrick (played by Charles Coburn) when he goes undercover to investigate labor issues within his business. As their friendship blossoms, Merrick gains a newfound appreciation for the struggles faced by his workers, while Mary's feisty spirit and unwavering loyalty endear her to both her colleagues and audience members alike.
7Alan Ladd, Jean Arthur, Van HeflinIn George Stevens' influential western Shane, Jean Arthur departs from her usual comedic roles to portray Marian Starrett - a strong-willed frontier woman who finds herself drawn to an enigmatic gunslinger named Shane (Alan Ladd). Set against the breathtaking Wyoming landscape, this compelling drama explores themes of heroism, redemption, and family dynamics as Shane attempts to protect Marian's homesteading community from ruthless cattle baron Rufus Ryker (Emile Meyer). With its rich storytelling and powerful performances from its ensemble cast – including Arthur's multilayered portrayal of Marian – this 1953 film continues to resonate with modern audiences.
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8Jean Arthur, Edward Arnold, Ray MillandIn Mitchell Leisen's 1937 screwball comedy Easy Living, Jean Arthur stars as Mary Smith – a working-class woman whose life is turned upside down when a luxurious fur coat mistakenly lands in her lap. As she navigates the ensuing chaos, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements with financier J.B. Ball (Edward Arnold) and his idealistic son John (Ray Milland), Arthur showcases her undeniable charisma and comedic timing throughout this lively romp filled with laughter, glamour, and heart.
9Jean Arthur, Marlene Dietrich, John LundBilly Wilder's 1948 romantic comedy A Foreign Affair offers a fascinating look at post-World War II Berlin through the eyes of an ambitious congresswoman (played by Jean Arthur) sent on a fact-finding mission about the city's morale. Upon discovering an illicit affair between an American soldier (John Lund) and an enigmatic nightclub singer (Marlene Dietrich), Arthur's character dives headfirst into the complexities of love, loyalty and politics amidst Germany's bombed-out landscape. With sharp wit, captivating performances, and poignant commentary on war-torn Europe, this film remains a timeless classic in cinema history.
10Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Rita HayworthHoward Hawks' 1939 adventure drama Only Angels Have Wings takes viewers on a thrilling journey to the fictional South American port town of Barranca, where Jean Arthur's character Bonnie Lee encounters a group of daring pilots led by Geoff Carter (Cary Grant). As romance blossoms between Bonnie and Geoff amidst high-flying action sequences and tense emotional moments, Arthur delivers an enchanting performance that captures both her character's vulnerability and steely determination in the face of danger. With its gripping storyline and captivating cast, this film remains a standout entry in Jean Arthur's illustrious career.
11Edward G. Robinson, Jean Arthur, Arthur HohlJohn Ford directs Jean Arthur alongside Edward G. Robinson in the delightful 1935 crime-comedy The Whole Town's Talking. Robinson plays dual roles - timid, law-abiding accountant Arthur Ferguson Jones and notorious gangster Killer Mannion. When police mistake Jones for Mannion, chaos ensues as he struggles to clear his name. As Wilhelmina Clark - Jones' coworker and love interest - Jean Arthur shines with her signature charm and wit, adding levity to this fast-paced tale that masterfully combines laughs, romance, and suspense.
12Jean Arthur, John Wayne, Charles WinningerJean Arthur shines in William A. Seiter’s charmingly comedic Western A Lady Takes a Chance. In the film, Molly Truesdale (Arthur) ventures out into the open American frontier on a bus tour vacation from New York City while seeking adventure and romance. When she meets cowboy Duke Hudkins (John Wayne) during a rodeo, sparks fly between the two as they navigate cultural differences and the rugged landscape of the West. This lighthearted comedy allows Arthur to showcase her wit and charisma in a new setting while also highlighting her exceptional on-screen chemistry with co-star John Wayne.
13Herbert Marshall, Jean Arthur, Leo CarrilloIn William A. Seiter's delightful screwball comedy If You Could Only Cook, Jean Arthur stars as unemployed stenographer Joan Hawthorne who convinces disgruntled auto executive Jim Buchanan (played by Herbert Marshall) to pose as her husband for employment purposes at a wealthy man's estate. As they humorously navigate their way through their charade while attempting to maintain their real-life identities, Jean Arthur expertly showcases her wit, charm, and impeccable comedic timing that has endeared her to generations of film fans.
14Charles Boyer, Jean Arthur, Colin CliveIn Frank Borzage's enchanting romantic drama History Is Made at Night, Jean Arthur stars opposite Charles Boyer as stranded lovers Irene Vail and Paul Dumond – two individuals who cross paths one fateful evening aboard a ship bound for France. As they face numerous obstacles, including the devious intentions of Irene's jealous ex-husband (Colin Clive), the couple must rely on their love for one another to overcome adversity in this captivating tale filled with warmth, passion, and intrigue.
15Gary Cooper, Jean Arthur, James EllisonCecil B. DeMille's 1936 western epic The Plainsman stars Jean Arthur alongside Gary Cooper in a fictitious tale of the Wild West featuring real-life historical figures Calamity Jane (Arthur) and Wild Bill Hickok (Cooper). This action-packed adventure showcases Arthur in a more rugged role as she holds her own against her male counterparts while navigating romantic entanglements amidst perilous shootouts and daring escapades. With its stellar cast and captivating storytelling, The Plainsman remains an enduring classic within both the western genre and Jean Arthur's filmography.
16William Powell, Jean Arthur, James GleasonStephen Roberts' 1936 mystery-comedy The Ex-Mrs. Bradford pairs Jean Arthur with William Powell as ex-spouses Paula (Arthur) and Dr. Lawrence Bradford (Powell), who reunite to solve a baffling murder case tied to horse racing intrigue. As they exchange witty banter and follow clues through a web of deception, Arthur showcases her comedic prowess alongside Powell's acerbic charm - making this film an essential entry in any cinema lover's collection.
17Jean Arthur, Joel McCrea, Reginald OwenIn Edward Ludwig's 1936 crime-comedy Adventure in Manhattan, Jean Arthur stars alongside Joel McCrea as Claire Peyton – a struggling actress who becomes involved in a series of art heists masterminded by an enigmatic criminal. The film follows newspaper reporter George Melville (McCrea) as he works to unravel the mysterious plot while simultaneously falling for the captivating Claire. With its sharp wit, thrilling narrative twists, and magnetic performances from both leads, Adventure in Manhattan offers viewers a compelling cinematic experience that highlights Jean Arthur's exceptional talent on screen.
18Jean Arthur, Victor Jory, Helen LowellErich von Stroheim's small-town drama Party Wire centers around Marge Widdicome (Jean Arthur), who inadvertently overhears a scandalous conversation through an open telephone line shared by multiple households in her rural community. When gossip spreads like wildfire, it sets off a chain reaction that leads to unexpected conflicts among friends and family members alike. In this riveting tale of secrets-turned-public knowledge, Jean Arthur brings depth to her portrayal of Marge - showcasing the versatile range she would come to be known for throughout her career.
19Jean Arthur, William Holden, Warren WilliamIn Wesley Ruggles' 1940 western drama Arizona, Jean Arthur plays Phoebe Titus – an ambitious pioneer woman determined to build a thriving business in the untamed Arizona Territory. As she navigates both romantic entanglements with cavalry officer Peter Muncie (William Holden) and ruthless rivals intent on sabotaging her success, Arthur delivers a spirited performance that showcases her ability to captivate audiences amidst sweeping landscapes and high-stakes action sequences.
20Jean Arthur, Fred MacMurray, Melvyn DouglasWesley Ruggles directs Jean Arthur, Fred MacMurray, and Melvyn Douglas in the screwball comedy Too Many Husbands. When Vicky Lowndes (Arthur) discovers that her presumed-dead husband Bill (MacMurray) is alive after she has remarried to his best friend Henry (Douglas), a hilarious love triangle ensues as both men compete for her affections. Arthur's performance as the conflicted yet endearing Vicky showcases her comedic talents and ability to command the screen amidst an all-star ensemble cast.
21Lionel Barrymore, Jean Arthur, Chester MorrisIn J. Walter Ruben's fast-paced crime drama Public Hero No. 1, Jean Arthur demonstrates her versatility by taking on the role of Maria Theresa O'Reilly - a nightclub entertainer caught in the crossfire between an undercover G-man (played by Chester Morris) and an elusive gangster known as 'No. 4'. Navigating tense shootouts and romantic entanglements amidst a web of deception, Arthur's captivating performance adds depth and nuance to this thrilling cinematic experience.
22William Powell, Jean Arthur, Kay FrancisJohn Cromwell's 1930 mystery film Street of Chance stars William Powell as amnesia-stricken Frank Thompson, who must unravel his past after discovering he has been accused of murder. Jean Arthur appears as his sister-in-law Virginia alongside Kay Francis as his estranged wife Alma. As the complex narrative unfolds with suspenseful twists and turns, Arthur adeptly navigates her role within this gripping tale – highlighting her ability to captivate audiences across diverse genres.
23Whirlpool
Jack Holt, Jean Arthur, Allen JenkinsRoy William Neill's edge-of-your-seat mystery-thriller Whirlpool features Jean Arthur navigating heart-pounding suspense alongside Jack Holt and Robert Armstrong. In this engaging drama, it is up to Arthur's character Laurie Marlowe to clear her name when she becomes implicated in a baffling murder case. A captivating mixture of intrigue, romance, and unexpected plot twists, Whirlpool offers a thrilling viewing experience that showcases Jean Arthur's ability to command the screen amidst high-stakes storytelling.
24Jean Arthur, William Powell, Louise BrooksJean Arthur demonstrates her versatility in Malcolm St. Clair’s 1929 crime-drama The Canary Murder Case. As Alice LaFosse – one of several suspects caught up in the murder investigation surrounding nightclub singer Margaret Odell (Louise Brooks), also known as ‘the Canary,’ – Arthur skillfully balances charm with intrigue throughout this early talking picture adaptation of S.S. Van Dine’s popular Philo Vance detective novel series.
25Jean Harlow, Jean Arthur, Clara BowA.C. Lyles' 1929 pre-Code comedy The Saturday Night Kid features Jean Arthur alongside silent film icons Clara Bow and Thelma Todd in a charming love triangle story centered around department store employees vying for the affections of coworker Bill (James Hall). As Agnes (Arthur) competes against Mayme (Bow) for Bill's heart while navigating workplace politics and scheming rivals, audiences will delight in the lively humor and strong female performances at the core of this early talking picture.
26Cesar Romero, Jean Arthur, William DemarestJean Arthur stars in A. Edward Sutherland's 1935 biographical drama Diamond Jim, which chronicles the life of legendary Gilded Age millionaire and bon vivant James Buchanan Brady (played by Edward Arnold). As Lillian Russell – an iconic stage actress and popular singing star of the era, with whom Brady maintains a close friendship – Arthur delivers a captivating performance that showcases her versatile talents as both an actor and singer.
27Joel McCrea, Jean Arthur, Evelyn BrentGeorge Archainbaud's 1930 adventure film The Silver Horde features Joel McCrea as Boyd Emerson - a determined fisherman attempting to build a successful business in Alaska while navigating dangerous rivals and romantic intrigue involving Cherry Malotte (Evelyn Brent) and Mildred Wayland (Jean Arthur). As Mildred struggles to choose between her love for Boyd and loyalty to her wealthy father, Arthur's nuanced portrayal adds depth to this thrilling tale set against stunning Alaskan landscapes.
28The Public Menace
Jean Arthur, George Murphy, Douglass DumbrilleIn Erle C. Kenton’s 1935 screwball comedy The Public Menace, Jean Arthur stars as Red Watson – an enterprising Chicago manicurist who becomes entangled in a hilarious series of misadventures when she marries brash newspaper reporter Henry Smith (George Murphy). As the couple faces off against a mob boss and navigates the often-tumultuous world of journalism, Arthur’s comedic talents shine through in one of her many memorable performances from this era.
29Gary Cooper, Jean Arthur, Fay WrayIn this unique 1930 musical revue directed by several notable filmmakers including Ernst Lubitsch, Dorothy Arzner, Edmund Goulding, Victor Schertzinger, Otto Brower, Rowland V. Lee, A. Edward Sutherland, Lothar Mendes, and Victor Heerman, Paramount on Parade features Jean Arthur alongside a bevy of other Hollywood stars as they perform skits and musical numbers. Showcasing the talents of icons like Maurice Chevalier, Clara Bow, Gary Cooper, and Fredric March, this entertaining spectacle offers viewers an unforgettable glimpse into the early days of sound cinema.
30Brotherly Love
Jean Arthur, Karl Dane, Marcia HarrisIn Charles Reisner's 1928 silent comedy Brotherly Love, Jean Arthur stars alongside Richard Barthelmess in a charming tale of sibling rivalry that escalates when both brothers fall for their beautiful neighbor Mary (Arthur). As the object of their affections, Arthur delivers a captivating performance that showcases her ability to enchant audiences even before her transition to talkies.
