The 50+ Best Susan Hayward Movies

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Updated April 16, 2024 44.4K views 52 items
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Heralded as one of Hollywood's most best actresses, Susan Hayward has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Her filmography is impressive, featuring a wide range of roles that allowed her to win the hearts of audiences worldwide. The best Hayward movies allow generations of moviegoers to appreciate her stunning contributions to cinema.

The most striking feature of Hayward's best movies lies in her versatility. She is able to embody a wide range of characters seemingly without effort. Ranging from heart-wrenching dramas to powerful biopics, these films exemplify Hayward's artistic range and scene-stealing performances. In these Susan Hayward best movies, her undeniable talent shines through, earning her numerous accolades and a lasting legacy within the realm of cinematic treasures.

Hayward's best movies showcase her extraordinary talent. Notable examples include I'll Cry Tomorrow, where she masterfully portrays Lillian Roth's battle with alcoholism; I Want to Live!, where her performance as Barbara Graham earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress; and With a Song in My Heart, where she played the role of singer Jane Froman. These exceptional films are only a few among her many great movies.

The radiant talent of Susan Hayward, showcased in her most memorable films, continues to inspire admiration and appreciation from movie enthusiasts worldwide. Exploring her filmography is not only a celebration of her artistic excellence but also an homage to her enduring impact on the collective imagination of movie lovers everywhere. 
 

Most divisive: The Revengers
Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 50+ Best Susan Hayward Movies
  • I'll Cry Tomorrow
    1
    Susan Hayward, Richard Conte, Eddie Albert
    141 votes

    Based on the autobiography of singer-actress Lillian Roth, this drama delves into alcoholism and the struggles within the entertainment industry. As the lead character, Hayward delivers a powerful performance chronicling Roth's downward spiral, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film resonated with audiences due to its emotional depth and the stark portrayal of addiction, solidifying its place among Hayward's most memorable works.

  • I Want to Live!
    2
    Susan Hayward, Simon Oakland, Virginia Vincent
    135 votes

    This gripping true story of Barbara Graham, a woman wrongly accused and sentenced to death, showcases Hayward's exceptional talent for portraying complex characters in difficult situations. Her emotionally charged performance as Graham earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, a testament to her skill in bringing the character and her story to life. The film's gritty realism and unflinching look at capital punishment helped cement its status as one of Hayward's most impactful and successful roles.

  • With a Song in My Heart
    3
    Susan Hayward, Rory Calhoun, David Wayne
    126 votes

    This biographical musical film follows the life of singer Jane Froman, who overcomes tragedy and adversity to continue her career after being injured in a plane crash. Hayward's committed portrayal of Froman, coupled with her own singing voice dubbed by Froman herself, creates a compelling and moving experience for viewers. The film's inspirational themes of perseverance and triumph against the odds made it a box-office success and a standout in Hayward's career.

  • Back Street
    4
    Susan Hayward, Vera Miles, John Gavin
    151 votes

    A tale of forbidden love and sacrifice, this romantic drama explores the relationship between a married man and his mistress over their decades-long affair. Hayward's nuanced performance as the mistress caught in a web of betrayal and heartbreak captivates audiences, highlighting her ability to convey emotional complexity. The film's engaging plot and sincere performances from the cast contributed to its success and enduring appeal as one of Hayward's notable works.

  • Smash-Up, the Story of a Woman
    5
    Susan Hayward, Eddie Albert, Robert Shayne
    64 votes

    This gripping drama sees Hayward tackle the role of an aspiring singer whose life spirals out of control due to alcoholism and the pressures of fame. Her raw and powerful performance as the troubled protagonist earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film's unflinching look at addiction and the dark side of show business garnered praise and success, making it a standout role in Hayward's career.

  • My Foolish Heart
    6
    Dana Andrews, Susan Hayward, Kent Smith
    89 votes

    In this tender drama based on a J.D. Salinger short story, Hayward portrays a woman looking back on her past and the love that got away. Her portrayal of the character's vulnerable moments and self-reflection showcases her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. The film's poignant exploration of lost love and regret resonated with viewers, solidifying its place as one of Hayward's most heartfelt performances.

  • Deadline at Dawn
    7
    Susan Hayward, Paul Lukas, Bill Williams
    53 votes

    In this atmospheric film noir, Hayward plays a tough but vulnerable nightclub dancer caught up in a deadly web of intrigue and murder. Her captivating performance, alongside her chemistry with co-star Paul Lukas, helps to create a tense and compelling atmosphere throughout the film. The tight pacing and suspenseful plot ensure that Deadline at Dawn remains an engaging and memorable entry in Hayward's varied filmography.

  • Untamed
    8
    Tyrone Power, Susan Hayward, Richard Egan
    51 votes

    Set in 19th-century South Africa, this sprawling adventure film follows Hayward as a strong-willed, independent woman seeking her fortune amidst the challenges of colonial life. Her resilient performance displays the depths of her acting abilities, capturing both the character's fierce determination and vulnerability. The film's riveting story against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period makes it an absorbing and memorable showcase for Hayward's talents.

  • The Lusty Men
    9
    Susan Hayward, Robert Mitchum, Arthur Kennedy
    50 votes

    This compelling drama centers on the world of professional rodeo and the complex relationships between its participants. As the wife of a washed-up rodeo cowboy, Hayward delivers a remarkable portrayal of a woman torn between loyalty and ambition. The film's striking visuals and raw emotion helped to solidify its position as an engaging and compelling entry in Hayward's career.

  • House of Strangers
    10
    Edward G. Robinson, Susan Hayward, Richard Conte
    48 votes

    In this gritty crime drama, Hayward plays the headstrong love interest of a man embroiled in a bitter family feud that threatens to tear them apart. Her fiery performance adds another layer of intensity to the already tension-filled narrative. The film's intricate plotting and strong ensemble cast contributed to its success and enduring appeal as one of Hayward's most memorable roles.

  • I'd Climb the Highest Mountain
    11
    Susan Hayward, William Lundigan, Rory Calhoun
    53 votes

    This heartwarming drama sees Hayward take on the role of a devoted wife supporting her husband's mission to bring faith and hope to a rural community. Her sincere and touching portrayal showcases her ability to convey deep emotion and vulnerability, earning her critical acclaim for her performance. The film's inspiring themes and moving story made it a success both critically and at the box office, marking it as one of Hayward's most endearing roles.

  • Rawhide
    12
    Tyrone Power, Susan Hayward, Hugh Marlowe
    53 votes

    A classic western thriller, this action-packed film sees Hayward play a tough woman fighting to protect herself and a young child from vicious outlaws. Her strong-willed performance and undeniable screen presence serve as the perfect foil for co-star Tyrone Power, creating an engaging dynamic between the two leads. The film's gripping storyline and high-stakes action ensure it remains a thrilling and memorable entry in Hayward's prolific career.

  • Tulsa
    13
    Susan Hayward, Robert Preston, Pedro Armendáriz
    47 votes

    In this rousing drama, Hayward plays an ambitious woman who becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of oil drilling during the 1920s. Her spirited performance captures the determination and resilience of her character, contributing to the film's success and lasting appeal. The thrilling exploration of the early days of the oil industry and its impact on the lives of those involved makes it a standout in Hayward's career.

  • David and Bathsheba
    14
    Gregory Peck, Susan Hayward, Raymond Massey
    57 votes

    In this historical epic, Hayward delivers a captivating performance as the beautiful and alluring Bathsheba, whose forbidden love affair with King David leads to tragedy and turmoil. Her magnetic screen presence and passionate portrayal of the doomed romance keep audiences engaged throughout the film. The lush production values and grand scale of the story make it an unforgettable and visually stunning showcase for Hayward's talents.

  • Demetrius and the Gladiators
    15
    Victor Mature, Susan Hayward, Michael Rennie
    55 votes

    This thrilling sequel to The Robe sees Hayward take on the role of Messalina, a scheming and manipulative empress set on maintaining her power through any means necessary. Her deliciously villainous performance demonstrates her versatility as an actress and is a highlight of the film. The engaging blend of romance, political intrigue, and action make Demetrius and the Gladiators an entertaining and memorable entry in Hayward's career.

  • Valley of the Dolls
    16
    Barbara Parkins, Patty Duke, Sharon Tate
    52 votes

    In this iconic and sordid tale of ambition and addiction in Hollywood, Hayward plays Helen Lawson, a fading star struggling to maintain her relevance in the ruthless entertainment industry. Her biting, acerbic performance showcases her ability to embody complex, multi-dimensional characters and provides a fitting contrast to her previous roles. The film's controversial themes and provocative subject matter ensure that it remains an enduring and memorable part of Hayward's impressive filmography.

  • Garden of Evil
    17
    Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward, Richard Widmark
    47 votes

    This Western drama sees Hayward play the determined wife of a miner trapped in a gold mine, enlisting the help of three strangers to rescue him. Hayward's commanding performance adds depth and authenticity to her character, further engaging audiences in the thrilling adventure. The film's striking visuals and atmospheric setting contribute to its success and make it a standout entry in Hayward's body of work.

  • The Lost Moment
    18
    Bob Cummings, Susan Hayward, Agnes Moorehead
    36 votes

    This gothic romance follows Hayward as a mysterious woman haunted by the secrets of her past and the memory of a forbidden love affair. Her enigmatic and entrancing performance adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the film, drawing viewers into the shadowy world of the characters. The suspenseful narrative and atmospheric setting make The Lost Moment an engaging and memorable experience for fans of Hayward's work.

  • The Snows of Kilimanjaro
    19
    Gregory Peck, Susan Hayward, Ava Gardner
    47 votes

    Based on the classic Ernest Hemingway short story, this sweeping drama sees Hayward take on the role of a woman who falls for a writer haunted by the ghosts of his past. Her emotionally charged performance allows the audience to experience her character's heartache and longing, further enhancing the film's poetic and bittersweet narrative. The film's stunning visuals and powerful exploration of love and loss make it a standout in Hayward's illustrious career.

  • I Can Get It for You Wholesale
    20
    Susan Hayward, George Sanders, Sam Jaffe
    42 votes

    In this rags-to-riches tale set in the world of the New York garment industry, Hayward plays a ruthlessly determined designer willing to do anything to achieve success. Her powerful and unapologetic performance captures the relentless ambition of her character, making her a compelling figure in the film. The engaging storyline and strong supporting cast ensure that I Can Get It for You Wholesale remains a memorable and entertaining entry in Hayward's career.

  • White Witch Doctor
    21
    Robert Mitchum, Susan Hayward, Walter Slezake
    37 votes

    Set in the Belgian Congo during the early 20th century, Hayward plays a nurse who teams up with a rugged adventurer in an effort to save lives and explore the region. Her strong-willed and compassionate portrayal adds depth to the film, demonstrating her ability to bring nuance and emotional complexity to her roles. The thrilling adventure story and exotic backdrop make White Witch Doctor an entertaining and visually striking showcase for Hayward's talents.

  • Woman Obsessed
    22
    Susan Hayward, Stephen Boyd, Barbara Nichols
    32 votes

    In this dramatic tale of love and obsession, Hayward portrays a widow who finds herself irresistibly drawn to a mysterious and brooding hired hand. Her passionate performance conveys the intensity and complexity of her character's emotions, further engaging audiences in the unfolding story. The film's evocative exploration of love, jealousy, and the human psyche make it an intriguing entry in Hayward's diverse filmography.

  • I Thank a Fool
    23
    Susan Hayward, Peter Finch, Diane Cilento
    36 votes

    This crime drama sees Hayward play a disgraced doctor charged with the murder of her lover's wife, only to find herself framed for yet another crime. Her compelling performance captures the desperation and determination of her character, keeping audiences invested in the intricate and suspenseful plot. The engaging storyline and twist-filled narrative ensure that I Thank a Fool remains a standout entry in Hayward's impressive filmography.

  • Where Love Has Gone
    24
    Bette Davis, Susan Hayward, DeForest Kelley
    51 votes

    This dramatic adaptation of a Harold Robbins novel delves into a tragic tale of love, betrayal, and family dysfunction. As the tormented mother at the center of the family's turmoil, Hayward delivers an intense and emotionally raw performance that captivates viewers. The film's gripping plot and dramatic tension ensure its place as one of Hayward's most memorable and successful roles.

  • The President's Lady
    25
    Charlton Heston, Susan Hayward, John McIntire
    51 votes

    This historical biopic follows the tumultuous love affair between future U.S. President Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel. Hayward's passionate portrayal of Rachel captures the emotional intensity of their relationship, lending the film an air of authenticity and depth. The film's engaging exploration of love and sacrifice against the backdrop of early American history makes it a standout in Hayward's diverse filmography.

  • Ada
    26
    Susan Hayward, Dean Martin, Wilfrid Hyde-White
    50 votes

    In this political drama, Hayward stars as a former call girl who rises to power as the first lady of a Southern state when she marries an idealistic gubernatorial candidate. Her fierce and commanding performance showcases her ability to tackle complex characters with depth and nuance. The film's engaging examination of power dynamics and political intrigue make Ada an intriguing and memorable entry in Hayward's career.

  • Adam Had Four Sons
    27
    Ingrid Bergman, Warner Baxter, Susan Hayward
    27 votes

    In this family drama, Hayward portrays a governess who becomes entwined in the lives of a wealthy family dealing with tragedy and betrayal over the course of several decades. Her compassionate and heartfelt performance resonates with audiences, showcasing her ability to convey genuine emotion on screen. The film's rich character development and engaging storyline contribute to its success and lasting appeal as one of Hayward's most beloved roles.

  • Canyon Passage
    28
    Dana Andrews, Brian Donlevy, Susan Hayward
    38 votes

    In this Western adventure, Hayward stars as the love interest of a frontier entrepreneur caught up in a dangerous rivalry with a business partner. Her spirited and passionate performance adds depth to the film, demonstrating her versatility and ability to inhabit a range of characters. The thrilling story and action-packed sequences make Canyon Passage an engaging and memorable showcase for Hayward's considerable talents.

  • Soldier of Fortune
    29
    Clark Gable, Susan Hayward, Michael Rennie
    38 votes

    In this thrilling adventure film, Hayward plays the desperate wife of a man held captive by the Chinese government, enlisting the help of a mercenary to secure his release. Her courageous and determined performance adds emotional weight to the high-stakes rescue mission. The film's thrilling action sequences and engaging story ensure it remains a memorable and exciting entry in Hayward's career.

  • Reap the Wild Wind
    30
    Ray Milland, John Wayne, Paulette Goddard
    40 votes

    In this swashbuckling adventure set in the 1840s, Hayward takes on the role of a feisty Southern belle caught between two rival ship salvagers. Her spirited performance adds depth and charm to the film, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. The film's thrilling action and romantic intrigue make it an entertaining and memorable entry in Hayward's impressive filmography.