The Best Movies About Gold Diggers
This list features the best movies about gold diggers. Gold digging women and men are often portrayed in film as conniving, manipulative, and greedy. These films feature gold diggers who use their feminine wiles to get rich men to marry them. Once they've snagged a wealthy husband, these women proceed to bleed him dry of all his money.
Some of the best movies about gold diggers include The Lady Eve, Heartbreakers, and How to Marry a Millionaire. Vote up your favorite films below and see where your favorites landed on this list of the greatest movies about gold digging women!
Â
- 1Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, Betty Grable
This classic romantic comedy follows the tale of three fashionable friends who are on a mission to find wealthy husbands. The trio of glamorous women, portrayed by Marilyn Monroe, Betty Grable, and Lauren Bacall, devise a plan to rent a luxurious penthouse in the hopes of attracting rich suitors. The film delivers witty humor, delightful performances, and enduring charm despite the materialistic motives of its protagonists.
- #153 of 320 onThe 200+ Best Romantic Comedies Of All Time
- #6 of 38 onThe Best '50s Romantic Comedies
- #11 of 65 onThe Best 1950s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 2Jane Russell, Marilyn Monroe, Charles Coburn
Starring screen icons Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell, the film chronicles the adventures of two sultry showgirls looking for love and wealth aboard a luxurious ocean liner. Monroe's character, Lorelei, epitomizes the gold digger persona, setting her sights on a millionaire while her more practical friend Dorothy searches for true love. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes boasts memorable musical numbers, dazzling costumes, and light-hearted fun amidst the pursuit of financial security.
More Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
- #75 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #299 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- #28 of 68 onThe Most Rewatchable Movie Musicals
- 3Sigourney Weaver, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Ray Liotta
Starring Sigourney Weaver and Jennifer Love Hewitt, this charming comedy tells the story of a mother-daughter duo who con wealthy men out of their fortunes by staging elaborate scams. As they move from one wealthy target to another, the two women inevitably face various complications and unexpected emotions. Heartbreakers provides an entertaining and lighthearted take on the gold digger theme with standout performances from its leading ladies.
More Heartbreakers- #97 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- #38 of 77 onThe Greatest Female-Led Comedy Movies
- #41 of 72 onThe 70+ Best Mother-Daughter Movies Ever Made
- 4Claudette Colbert, Joel McCrea, Rudy Vallee
The screwball comedy tells the story of Gerry, a woman who, fed up with her financial struggles, leaves her inventor husband and heads to Palm Beach to find a millionaire to support them both. Along her journey, Gerry encounters a variety of eccentric characters and antics that contribute to the movie's humor and heart. This film showcases impeccable comic timing, irresistible chemistry between its leads, and a poignant commentary on love and wealth.
- 5Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal
This cinematic gem introduces Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, a New York socialite who is leading a double life as a high-class call girl. Holly's ultimate goal is to marry a wealthy man, and along the way, she finds herself torn between her aspirations and genuine feelings for a struggling writer. The film presents a captivating combination of romance, humor, and drama set against the backdrop of Manhattan's glitz and glamour.
More Breakfast at Tiffany's- #100 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- #71 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- #117 of 123 onThe Biggest Tearjerker Movies Of All Time
- 6Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, Celeste Holm
This critically acclaimed drama follows Eve Harrington, an ambitious young woman who ingratiates herself with a group of theater professionals to further her career. As she manipulates and betrays those around her to achieve success, the film explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and deception. The sharp dialogue, memorable performances, and intriguing plot make All About Eve a timeless classic in the gold digger genre.
More All About Eve- #36 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #717 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #89 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 7
Miss Gold Digger
Han Ye-seul, Kim In-kwon, Son Ho-youngThis Korean rom-com centers on a career woman who strategically navigates through various relationships with wealthy men, using her wit and charm to advance her own interests. The film delves into themes of materialism and manipulation and provides an insightful and humorous look at the lengths some will go to in the pursuit of wealth and status. Viewers are treated to engaging performances, clever plot twists, and an exploration of the consequences that arise from chasing after luxury.
- 8Barbara Stanwyck, Henry Fonda, Charles Coburn
Barbara Stanwyck stars as Jean Harrington, a cardsharp who sets her sights on the naive and affluent Charles Pike, played by Henry Fonda. As Jean puts her elaborate plan of seduction into action, the film takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride of comedy, romance, and deception. The Lady Eve is a superbly crafted screwball comedy that showcases the allure and danger of the gold digger lifestyle.
More The Lady Eve- #226 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- #584 of 630 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #31 of 75 onThe 75 Best Classic Romance Movies
- 9Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, Shelley Winters
The film tells the tragic tale of George Eastman, a poor young man who becomes involved with two women - one rich and beautiful, the other poor and pregnant. George's misguided pursuit of wealth and social standing leads him down a dark path as he contemplates desperate measures to secure his dream life. A Place in the Sun is a thought-provoking drama that examines the destructive nature of greed and ambition.
More A Place in the Sun- #99 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
- #19 of 50 onThe Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the 1950s
- #64 of 70 onThe Best Oscar-Winning Scores
- 10Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard
This sweeping epic tells the tale of Scarlett O'Hara, a strong-willed Southern belle who uses her charms and cunning to secure her family's wealth and survival during the Civil War. While not a traditional gold digger, Scarlett's relentless pursuit of security and status make her a fascinating character. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its captivating narrative, unforgettable characters, and rich exploration of love and ambition.
More Gone with the Wind- Dig Deeper...Dark Tales From Behind The Scenes Of 'Gone with the Wind'
- #5 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #110 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 11Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, George Macready
Rita Hayworth sizzles as the titular character, a sultry femme fatale who becomes entangled in a love triangle with her domineering husband and his former lover. As the story unfolds, Gilda's manipulative ways and questionable motives are gradually revealed amidst a backdrop of intrigue and passion. This film noir classic offers a captivating portrayal of a gold digger caught in a web of desire and deception.
- 12Lana Turner, Kirk Douglas, Walter Pidgeon
This compelling drama chronicles the rise and fall of an unscrupulous Hollywood producer who takes advantage of those around him, including the women he loves, to achieve success. The film boasts an exceptional cast, led by Kirk Douglas and Lana Turner, who deliver nuanced performances as complex characters driven by ambition and greed. The Bad and the Beautiful is not only a captivating portrayal of the film industry's dark side but also an insightful exploration of the gold digger mentality.
- 13Jack Lemmon, Virna Lisi, Terry-Thomas
This dark comedy stars Jack Lemmon as a man who seemingly has it all, including a beautiful and wealthy wife, played by Virna Lisi. However, when he becomes convinced that she only married him for his money, he begins to plot her demise in increasingly elaborate ways. The film playfully toys with the notion of gold diggers and their potential for betrayal, while delivering an entertaining mix of humor and suspense.
- 14Marilyn Monroe, Joseph Cotten, Jean Peters
Marilyn Monroe once again embodies the gold digger archetype in this dramatic thriller, where she plays a scheming wife plotting to murder her husband during their honeymoon at Niagara Falls. The film's suspenseful plot, along with Monroe's sultry performance, makes it a gripping and visually stunning classic that offers a darker take on the pursuit of wealth and materialism.
- 15Barbara Parkins, Patty Duke, Sharon Tate
Based on the best-selling novel, this melodrama follows a group of young women as they navigate the highs and lows of show business, love, and addiction. Among them is Jennifer North, played by Sharon Tate, who marries a wealthy man with the intention of using his fortune to support her ailing mother, only to find herself caught in a web of lies and deceit. The film brilliantly captures the glamorous yet dangerous allure of fame and wealth, offering a cautionary tale that continues to resonate with audiences.
- 16William Holden, Gloria Swanson, Erich von Stroheim
This iconic film noir features Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond, a fading silent film star who manipulates a struggling screenwriter into becoming her lover and collaborator. As the story unfolds, themes of ambition, vanity, and greed take center stage, making this a classic examination of the lengths some will go to maintain and secure wealth. Sunset Boulevard offers a gripping, cautionary look at the darker side of fame and fortune.
More Sunset Boulevard- #21 of 91 onThe 90 Best Black And White Movies
- #29 of 62 onThe Best Movies with Rich People Spending Big
- #64 of 67 onThe Best Movies That Pass the Bechdel Test
- 17Judy Holliday, William Holden, Broderick Crawford
This engaging comedy showcases Judy Holliday as a vivacious woman who uses her charm and wit to navigate high society and secure a wealthy husband. Along the way, she discovers that true happiness lies beyond material wealth, ultimately turning her back on her gold-digging ways. Born Yesterday is an empowering and heartfelt examination of genuine love and personal growth amidst the trappings of luxury.
More Born Yesterday- #215 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #28 of 50 onThe Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the 1950s
- #104 of 419 onThe 400+ Best Movies Produced By Columbia Pictures
- 18Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore
In this clever romantic comedy, the notion of gold digging comes to light when a wealthy businessman, played by Steve Carell, suspects his younger girlfriend of using him for his money. The film touches on themes of trust, betrayal, and the complexities of modern relationships, all wrapped up in a witty and entertaining package. Through its ensemble of endearing characters, Crazy, Stupid, Love. delves into the complexities of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness.
More Crazy, Stupid, Love.- #21 of 134 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #63 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- #359 of 630 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- 19Jean Harlow, Chester Morris, Una Merkel
This pre-Code comedy features vivacious Jean Harlow in a star-making performance as a fiercely ambitious secretary who uses her looks and cunning to seduce a string of wealthy men. The film showcases Harlow's undeniable charm and humor as she navigates through a world driven by money, sex, and power. Red-Headed Woman remains a classic example of the gold digger trope that entertains with its wit and audaciousness.
- 20Peter Sellers, Goldie Hawn, Tony Britton
Starring Peter Sellers and Goldie Hawn, this delightful comedy centers on a charming but self-absorbed TV chef who gets involved with a young American woman primarily interested in his wealth and fame. Despite their flawed motivations, the protagonists come to understand the importance of genuine connections and love. The film skillfully balances humor and sentimentality while it explores the pitfalls of gold digger relationships.
- 21
Gold Digger Killer
Shatara Curry - 22Constance Wu, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Stiles
Inspired by true events, this crime drama follows a group of former strip club employees who band together to scam their wealthy clients. Led by Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez, the film explores the motivations and consequences of their criminal pursuits of wealth and power. Hustlers offers a compelling, unapologetic look at the modern-day gold digger experience through the bold and gritty lens of these captivating women.
More Hustlers- #324 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- #135 of 156 onThe Best Ensemble Movies Of All Time
- #174 of 229 onThe Best Movies For Women
- 23Liza Minnelli, Joel Grey, Michael York
Set in the decadent world of 1930s Berlin, this Oscar-winning musical stars Liza Minnelli as Sally Bowles, a nightclub singer who dreams of a life of glamour and wealth. Though not a traditional gold digger, Sally's pursuit of affluent suitors and indulgent lifestyles presents a compelling exploration of the tradeoffs between love and material comfort. Cabaret's iconic songs, unforgettable performances, and subtle commentary on wealth and desire make it a classic within the genre.
More Cabaret- #66 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #127 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #372 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- 24Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, Roy Scheider
Jane Fonda delivers a powerful performance as Bree Daniels, a high-priced escort who becomes entangled in a missing person's investigation led by private detective John Klute, played by Donald Sutherland. Throughout the film, Bree struggles with her dependence on rich clients and her desire for true intimacy, ultimately grappling with the darker side of the gold digger experience. Klute is an intense and riveting thriller that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of using others for personal gain.
More Klute- #48 of 83 onThe 80+ Best Classic Thrillers, Ranked
- #48 of 66 onThe Best Romance Movies of the 1970s
- #76 of 81 onThe Best Movies About Stalking
- 25Audrey Tautou, Gad Elmaleh, Vernon Dobtcheff
This charming French romantic comedy follows the misadventures of a young waiter who becomes entangled with a glamorous gold digger, portrayed by Audrey Tautou. As the two lead characters embark on a series of deceptions, they ultimately learn valuable lessons about love, wealth, and the true meaning of happiness. Priceless is a delightful and heartwarming exploration of materialism and romantic connections that offers a humorous and uplifting take on the gold digger theme.
- 26Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore
The Coen Brothers' cult classic may be best known for its quirky humor and unforgettable characters, but it also features a gold digger subplot involving Bunny Lebowski, a young trophy wife who plays a crucial role in the film's central mystery. As the Dude unravels the truth about Bunny's disappearance, the film offers a humorous and satirical take on greed-driven relationships. The Big Lebowski is a uniquely offbeat exploration of money, power, and manipulation within its labyrinthine plot.
- 27Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, Edward G. Robinson
This classic film noir weaves a web of intrigue and deceit as Barbara Stanwyck's femme fatale character conspires with an insurance salesman, played by Fred MacMurray, to murder her wealthy husband for financial gain. The film's brilliantly crafted dialogue, masterful storytelling, and palpable suspense elevate it to one of the most revered entries in the genre. Double Indemnity expertly portrays the dangerous and deadly consequences of a gold digger's ruthless pursuit of wealth.
More Double Indemnity- #220 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #6 of 91 onThe 90 Best Black And White Movies
- #264 of 305 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- 28Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, Goldie Hawn
This satirical comedy-drama stars Warren Beatty as a charming hairdresser who gets entangled with a series of wealthy and powerful women. As Beatty's character navigates his way through the complex relationships, the film provides an insightful exploration of social climbing, sexual politics, and the lure of material success. Shampoo is a wry and perceptive commentary on the pitfalls of ambition and the pursuit of money.
More Shampoo- #185 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #591 of 630 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #63 of 106 onGreat Movies That Take Place In The '60s
- 29
Georgetown
Christoph Waltz, Vanessa Redgrave, Annette BeningThe captivating true-crime drama tells the story of a smooth-talking social climber, played by Christoph Waltz, who marries a wealthy older woman, portrayed by Vanessa Redgrave, in order to gain access to her fortune. As the couple's twisted relationship unfolds, the audience is led through a labyrinth of lies, betrayal, and ultimately murder. Georgetown chillingly explores both the lengths one might go to secure wealth and the high price of ambition.
- 30William Hurt, Kathleen Turner, Richard Crenna
This steamy neo-noir thriller stars William Hurt as a small-time attorney who enters into a passionate affair with a seductive, manipulative woman, played by Kathleen Turner. As their lust grows more intense, the lovers hatch a deadly scheme to murder the woman's wealthy husband. Body Heat masterfully combines sensuality, suspense, and intrigue to depict the destructive force of greed and desire.
More Body Heat- #199 of 253 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #50 of 53 onThe Best Movies Where The Bad Guy Wins
- #23 of 75 onThe Best Movies Of 1981
