Clark Gable's Best Movies, Ranked
1Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie HowardGone with the Wind, a sweeping historical romance set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era, is undoubtedly one of Clark Gable's most celebrated films. As Rhett Butler, Gable delivers a commanding performance that not only showcases his handsome charm but also his acting prowess. The film's grandeur is matched by its powerful storyline, which delves into themes such as love, war, and societal change. It remains an important milestone in cinematic history, often cited for its groundbreaking technicolor visuals and excellent ensemble cast that includes Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O'Hara.
2Claudette Colbert, Clark Gable, Walter ConnollyIt Happened One Night is a charming screwball comedy starring Clark Gable as Peter Warne, an out-of-work newspaper reporter who encounters Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert), a wealthy heiress on the run from her overbearing father. The two embark on an unforgettable road trip filled with witty banter and amusing mishaps that ultimately leads to an unlikely romance. Gable's magnetic chemistry with Colbert creates a delightful dynamic that elevates this timeless romantic comedy directed by Frank Capra to new heights.
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3Charles Laughton, Clark Gable, Franchot ToneIn this gripping retelling of the notorious 1789 naval rebellion aboard HMS Bounty, Clark Gable stars as Fletcher Christian, the ship's first mate who leads his crew in an uprising against their tyrannical captain (Charles Laughton). Displaying considerable range as an actor once again, Gable convincingly portrays Christian's internal struggle between duty and humanity throughout this thrilling maritime drama directed by Frank Lloyd.
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4Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, Mary AstorRed Dust is an evocative pre-Code drama featuring Clark Gable in a standout turn as rubber plantation overseer Dennis Carson. Set amidst the sultry jungles of French Indochina, Carson finds himself entangled in a steamy love triangle involving femme fatale Vantine (Jean Harlow) and the wife of a new engineer (Mary Astor). Gable's magnetic screen presence is showcased in his complex relationship with both women, making this film an essential entry in his storied body of work.
5Clark Gable, Jeanette MacDonald, Spencer TracySet just before the devastating 1906 earthquake, San Francisco stars Clark Gable as Blackie Norton, a saloon owner whose ambitious dreams collide with those of his longtime friend and romantic interest Mary Blake (Jeanette MacDonald), an aspiring opera singer. Their tumultuous relationship unfolds amidst stunning period sets and captivating musical numbers that showcase the full range of Gable’s talents in this captivating historical drama directed by W.S. Van Dyke.
6Clark Gable, Burt Lancaster, Don RicklesRun Silent, Run Deep sees Clark Gable taking on the role of Commander Richardson, a seasoned submarine officer obsessed with revenge against a Japanese destroyer that sank his former vessel. This tense WWII drama co-stars Burt Lancaster as Lieutenant Bledsoe, who grows increasingly concerned by Richardson's single-minded determination to confront the enemy at all costs. Gable's performance as the resolute commander highlights his versatility as an actor while providing audiences with an intense underwater thriller.
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7Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Montgomery CliftThe Misfits marks Clark Gable’s final film appearance and one of Marilyn Monroe’s last performances as well. Directed by John Huston and penned by Arthur Miller, this poignant character study follows three down-and-out drifters (Gable, Monroe, and Montgomery Clift) who form an unlikely bond while chasing wild horses in Nevada for profit. Despite its somber subject matter and real-life tragedies surrounding its production, The Misfits remains a powerful examination of human connection that showcases Gable’s depth as an actor.
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8Clark Gable, Spencer Tracy, Claudette ColbertBoom Town pairs Clark Gable once again with Spencer Tracy in this rousing adventure about two friends turned rivals seeking to strike it rich during the Oklahoma oil boom. Gable shines as Big John McMasters, an ambitious wildcatter determined to make a fortune at any cost while navigating the perils of the oil industry and matters of the heart. This fast-paced drama, directed by Jack Conway, remains a testament to Gable's enduring appeal and undeniable charisma.
9Clark Gable, Ava Gardner, Grace KellyIn Mogambo, Clark Gable reprises his role from Red Dust over two decades later, playing big game hunter Victor Marswell in this Technicolor remake set against the backdrop of Africa's stunning landscapes. When attractive but married Eloise "Honey Bear" Kelly (Ava Gardner) enters his world followed by anthropologists Linda Nordley (Grace Kelly) and her husband (Donald Sinden), tensions rise as romantic entanglements ensue amidst dangerous encounters with wild animals. Directed by John Ford, Mogambo is an exhilarating safari adventure that showcases Gable's indomitable charm alongside two leading ladies at their finest.
10Clark Gable, Loretta Young, Jack OakieBased on Jack London's classic novel, The Call of the Wild stars Clark Gable as resourceful prospector Jack Thornton during the Yukon Gold Rush. Forming an unbreakable bond with a magnificent sled dog named Buck, Thornton embarks on a thrilling journey through harsh terrain and treacherous weather conditions in pursuit of riches beyond his wildest dreams. Gable delivers a robust performance that captures both rugged determination and tender moments with his canine companion in this timeless adventure tale.
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11Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, Wallace BeeryIn China Seas, Clark Gable portrays daring sea captain Alan Gaskell who must navigate treacherous waters filled with pirates, typhoons, and tantalizing temptresses played by Jean Harlow and Rosalind Russell. This action-packed adventure offers audiences a thrilling ride as they follow Captain Gaskell's exploits across turbulent oceanic expanses under director Tay Garnett’s steady hand.
12Clark Gable, Doris Day, Gig YoungIn this delightful romantic comedy, Clark Gable plays hard-nosed newspaper editor James Gannon, who finds himself unexpectedly smitten with journalism professor Erica Stone (Doris Day) after attending one of her classes incognito to expose her as a fraud. As their unlikely romance blossoms under the watchful eye of director George Seaton, Gable demonstrates his comedic aptitude alongside Day's effervescent charm in Teacher's Pet.
13Clark Gable, Carol Lombard, Dorothy MackaillNo Man of Her Own pairs Carole Lombard and Clark Gable for the first time on screen in this steamy pre-Code melodrama about a small-town librarian named Connie Randall who falls for roguish gambler Babe Stewart (Gable). As they enter into a volatile marriage fueled by passion and misunderstandings, audiences are treated to electrifying performances from both stars that make No Man of Her Own an essential addition to any classic film lover's collection.
14Clark Gable, Sidney Poitier, Yvonne De CarloSet against the backdrop of Civil War-era Louisiana, Band of Angels stars Clark Gable as plantation owner Hamish Bond, whose world is turned upside down when he purchases beautiful but defiant Amantha Starr (Yvonne De Carlo), unaware she's actually his own daughter. This powerful drama explores themes such as race and family ties while showcasing Gable’s ability to captivate viewers with his commanding presence onscreen.
15Clark Gable, William Powell, Myrna LoyStarring opposite William Powell and Myrna Loy, Clark Gable delivers an exceptional performance in Manhattan Melodrama as Blackie Gallagher, a smooth-talking gambler willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his opulent lifestyle. When childhood friend and now-district attorney Jim Wade (Powell) sets out to bring him down, Blackie must confront his dark past amidst the glitz and glamour of New York City in this enthralling crime drama directed by W.S. Van Dyke.
16Clark Gable, Deborah Kerr, Sydney GreenstreetIn The Hucksters, Clark Gable takes on the role of war veteran and advertising executive Victor Albee Norman who must navigate the morally dubious world of post-WWII Madison Avenue. As he grapples with personal and professional dilemmas, Gable delivers a nuanced performance that skillfully conveys the complexities of ambition and integrity in this biting satire directed by Jack Conway.
17Clark Gable, Lana Turner, Frank MorganHonky Tonk is an entertaining western comedy that pairs Clark Gable with Lana Turner for the first time as they bring to life conman Candy Johnson (Gable) and his beautiful but naive love interest Elizabeth Cotton (Turner). As Candy attempts to swindle an entire town, unexpected challenges arise in this lighthearted romp complete with sharp wit, playful banter, and undeniable chemistry between its two stars.
18Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Ian HunterStrange Cargo sees Clark Gable teaming up once again with Joan Crawford in a compelling story about a group of convicts attempting to escape from Devil's Island. In his portrayal of brooding inmate Verne, Gable adds depth to this dark tale as he navigates treacherous terrain riddled with danger while grappling with spiritual transformation brought on by a mysterious fellow prisoner played by Ian Hunter.
19Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, Myrna LoyClark Gable shines as Van Stanhope, a successful magazine publisher caught between his loving wife Linda (Myrna Loy) and his loyal secretary Whitey Wilson (Jean Harlow) in Wife vs. Secretary. This romantic dramedy expertly explores themes such as trust and fidelity while offering audiences a delightful showcase of three Hollywood legends at their finest under director Clarence Brown's guidance.
20Clark Gable, Myrna Loy, Spencer TracyTest Pilot pairs Clark Gable once again with Myrna Loy and Spencer Tracy in this thrilling aviation-themed drama directed by Victor Fleming. Gable stars as Jim Lane, a daring test pilot whose daredevil stunts put him at odds with his best friend (Tracy) and wife (Loy), forcing him to reevaluate the risks he's willing to take for the sake of flying. Showcasing Gable's innate ability to balance action and emotion onscreen, Test Pilot remains an enthralling cinematic experience to this day.
21Clark Gable, Walter Pidgeon, Van JohnsonIn Command Decision, Clark Gable delivers a powerful performance as Brigadier General K.C. "Casey" Dennis, tasked with making difficult decisions during WWII amidst mounting pressure from both his superiors and the men under his command. This gripping war drama offers a sobering look at the weight of responsibility faced by those in positions of power during times of conflict, with Gable's nuanced portrayal taking center stage.
22Clark Gable, Myrna Loy, Walter PidgeonIn Too Hot to Handle, Clark Gable portrays newsreel cameraman Chris Hunter who will go to any lengths necessary, including sabotage and deceit, to secure exclusive footage for his employer. This fast-paced screwball comedy features Gable alongside Myrna Loy once more as sparks fly between their respective characters while they navigate the cutthroat world of journalism with gusto.
23Barbara Stanwyck, Ben Lyon, Joan BlondellNight Nurse pairs a young Clark Gable with Barbara Stanwyck in this pre-Code crime thriller that sees nurse Lora Hart (Stanwyck) uncovering a nefarious plot involving her wealthy patient's children and chauffeur (Gable). As she strives to save their innocent lives amidst escalating danger, Night Nurse establishes Gable’s growing talent as an actor capable of great intensity onscreen.
24Key to the City
Clark Gable, Loretta Young, Frank MorganClark Gable charms as Steve Fisk, a free-spirited mayor who finds himself falling for buttoned-up mayoral candidate Clarissa Standish (Loretta Young) in Key to the City. As they navigate political rivalries and unexpected romance, this delightful comedy showcases Gable's undeniable charisma and comedic timing alongside Young's enchanting screen presence.
25Clark Gable, Jane Russell, Robert RyanIn The Tall Men, Clark Gable joins forces with Jane Russell and Robert Ryan in an action-packed western about brothers Ben and Clint Allison (Gable and Cameron Mitchell) who reluctantly team up with wealthy cattleman Nathan Stark (Ryan) on a dangerous cattle drive from Texas to Montana. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles including Native American attacks and romantic rivalry over saloon girl Nella Turner (Russell), providing ample opportunity for Gable to display his rugged charm against picturesque backdrops.
26Norma Shearer, Lionel Barrymore, Clark GableA Free Soul stars an early Clark Gable alongside Norma Shearer and Lionel Barrymore in this pre-Code courtroom drama that delves into themes of alcoholism, addiction, and redemption. As gangster Ace Wilfong, Gable brings a menacing edge to his portrayal while also displaying the charm that would solidify him as one of Hollywood's most enduring leading men.
27Clark Gable, Gene TierneyClark Gable stars opposite Gene Tierney in Never Let Me Go, an espionage thriller set within Soviet Russia during the height of the Cold War. Playing American correspondent Philip Sutherland attempting to smuggle his Russian bride Maria (Tierney) out of the country after her travel visa is cancelled, Gable convincingly portrays the desperation and determination of a man willing to risk everything for love.
28Jean Harlow, Clark Gable, Stu ErwinHold Your Man sees the dynamic pairing of Clark Gable and Jean Harlow once again as they light up the screen with their undeniable chemistry in this romantic melodrama. Gable plays Eddie Hall, a small-time con artist who finds himself falling for his latest victim Ruby Adams (Harlow) despite mounting complications related to his criminal past.
29Clark Gable, Lana Turner, Robert SterlingSomewhere I'll Find You reunites Clark Gable with Lana Turner in this thrilling war romance that follows two roving reporters stationed in Asia during WWII as they vie for both professional scoops and the affection of beautiful Paula Lane (Turner). Balancing high-stakes journalism with passionate romance, this wartime drama skillfully showcases Gable's talents as both a leading man and skilled actor.
30Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, Hattie McDanielSaratoga features the legendary pairing of Clark Gable and Jean Harlow in their final film together prior to Harlow’s tragic death during production. This lively horse racing-themed comedy centers around gambler Duke Bradley (Gable) as he attempts to woo wealthy heiress Carol Clayton (Harlow) while navigating thrilling race scenes filled with excitement and intrigue.
