The Best Movies With Burt Lancaster
- 1Spencer Tracy, Burt Lancaster, Richard Widmark
For Fans Of: Historical Drama, Courtroom Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this powerful drama about the post-World War II Nuremberg trials, Lancaster delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Ernst Janning, a former German judge on trial for war crimes. His portrayal of a man grappling with the moral complexities of his actions and their consequences showcases his incredible range and ability to evoke deep emotions.In 1947, four German judges who served on the bench during the Nazi regime face a military tribunal to answer charges of crimes against humanity. Chief Justice Haywood (Spencer Tracy) hears evidence and testimony not only from lead defendant Ernst Janning (Burt Lancaster) and his defense attorney Hans Rolfe (Maximilian Schell), but also from the widow of a Nazi general (Marlene Dietrich), an idealistic U.S. Army captain (William Shatner) and reluctant witness Irene Wallner (Judy Garland).- #751 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #33 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #52 of 80 on80 Good Long Movies To Watch, Ranked
- 2Burt Lancaster, Montgomery Clift, Deborah Kerr
For Fans Of: War, Drama, Romance
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: This classic film features Lancaster in one of his most iconic roles as First Sergeant Milton Warden, who engages in a steamy affair with Deborah Kerr's character while stationed in Hawaii just before the Pearl Harbor attack. His magnetic chemistry with Kerr and intense performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, making it a must-watch for fans.At an Army barracks in Hawaii in the days preceding the attack on Pearl Harbor, lone-wolf soldier and boxing champion "Prew" Prewitt (Montgomery Clift) refuses to box, preferring to play the bugle instead. Hard-hearted Capt. Holmes (Philip Ober) subjects Prew to a grueling series of punishments while, unknown to Holmes, the gruff but fair Sgt. Warden (Burt Lancaster) engages in a clandestine affair with the captain's mistreated wife (Deborah Kerr).- #42 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #83 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #38 of 91 onThe 90 Best Black And White Movies
- 3Burt Lancaster, Karl Malden, Thelma Ritter
For Fans Of: Biographical Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this biographical drama, Lancaster gives an unforgettable performance as Robert Stroud, a convicted murderer who became an expert on birds during his time in solitary confinement at Alcatraz prison. His nuanced and empathetic portrayal of Stroud garnered him critical acclaim and another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.Sentenced to life in solitary confinement after killing a prison guard, despondent inmate Robert Stroud (Burt Lancaster) combats loneliness and tedium by nursing an ailing bird back to health. Stroud develops an interest in caring for birds and becomes a talented ornithologist. After publishing a book on bird diseases from jail, he meets and marries Stella (Betty Field), a fellow bird enthusiast. When Stroud is suddenly moved to Alcatraz, though, his marriage and work are both threatened.More Birdman of Alcatraz- #10 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #50 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #3 of 22 onThe Least Accurate Movies About Historical Figures
- 4Burt Lancaster, Paul Scofield, Jeanne Moreau
For Fans Of: War, Thriller, Action
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Set during World War II, this action-packed thriller features Lancaster as a French Resistance fighter trying to stop a train filled with priceless art from reaching Nazi Germany. With breathtaking stunts (many performed by Lancaster himself) and riveting suspense throughout, this film highlights both his physical prowess and acting talent.With the Allies poised to retake Paris from the Germans, Col. Franz Von Waldheim (Paul Scofield) conspires to sneak out by train all of the art masterpieces looted by the German army. But museum curator Mademoiselle Villard (Suzanne Flon) alerts the French Resistance, and soon railway inspector Paul Labiche (Burt Lancaster) is pressed into service. He reroutes the train, and cleverly deceives Von Waldheim by renaming each train station along the way.More The Train- #179 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #104 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #4 of 48 onThe Best Train Movies
- 5Burt Lancaster, Susan Sarandon, Kate Reid
For Fans Of: Crime, Romantic Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In one of his later roles, Lancaster delivers a poignant and affecting performance as Lou Pascal, an aging small-time gangster attempting to recapture the glory days of Atlantic City while becoming entangled with a young woman (played by Susan Sarandon) trying to escape her past. This thoughtful character study earned him yet another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.When Sally Matthews (Susan Sarandon) leaves her Canadian home to relocate to Atlantic City, she aspires to a prosperous career in the gambling industry. With her criminal husband (Robert Joy) on her trail, however, it appears that she can't escape from trouble, until she finds an unlikely savior in Lou Pascal (Burt Lancaster), an aging small-time mobster. By becoming involved with Sally, Lou finds a way to achieve the success he's dreamed of, but his plan may endanger both their lives. - 6Burt Lancaster, Jean Simmons, Dean Jagger
For Fans Of: Drama, Religious
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: For his Oscar-winning turn as the charismatic but deeply flawed titular character in this adaptation of Sinclair Lewis' novel, look no further than Elmer Gantry. Exploring themes of faith, manipulation, and redemption, Lancaster's complex portrayal of a traveling salesman-turned-preacher is a masterclass in character development.When hedonistic but charming con man Elmer Gantry (Burt Lancaster) meets the beautiful Sister Sharon Falconer (Jean Simmons), a roadside revivalist, he feigns piousness to join her act as a passionate preacher. The two make a successful onstage pair, and their chemistry extends to romance. Both the show and their relationship are threatened, however, when one of Gantry's ex-lovers (Shirley Jones) decides that she has a score to settle with the charismatic performer. - 7Lee Marvin, Burt Lancaster, Claudia Cardinale
For Fans Of: Western, Action, Adventure
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: This western adventure finds Lancaster as Bill Dolworth, an explosives expert who joins a group of skilled mercenaries to rescue a kidnapped woman in Mexico. With its thrilling action sequences and engaging ensemble cast, The Professionals highlights both Lancaster's undeniable charisma and his ability to command attention on screen.Four soldiers of fortune are hired by a wealthy rancher to rescue his beautiful young wife who has been kidnapped by a villainous Mexican bandit. When they finally find her, after fighting their way across deserts and mountains, they discover she is not being held against her will. This causes friction within the band as to whether they should honor their agreement.More The Professionals- #72 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #96 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #22 of 46 onThe Best 1960s Western Movies, Ranked
- Kirk Douglas, Ava Gardner, Burt Lancaster
For Fans Of: Thriller, Political Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: As General James Mattoon Scott in this political thriller, Lancaster skillfully portrays a military leader planning a coup against the U.S. president due to disagreements over nuclear disarmament policies. Showcasing his talent for intense dramatic roles, this tense and gripping film will keep viewers captivated from start to finish.Seven Days in May is a 1964 drama-romance film written by Fletcher Knebel, Charles W. Bailey II and Rod Serling and directed by John Frankenheimer. - 9Burt Lancaster, Gina Lollobrigida, Tony Curtis
For Fans Of: Drama, Sports, Romance
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Featuring not only his acting prowess but also his athletic background as an acrobat before he turned to Hollywood, Trapeze stars Lancaster as Mike Ribble, a former trapeze artist who mentors a young protégé while rekindling his love for the high-flying circus life. The thrilling aerial stunts and heartfelt drama make this film a must-see for fans of Lancaster's multifaceted talents.Mike Ribble (Burt Lancaster) is a hard-drinking tent pitcher. His career as a famous trapeze artist ended years ago after attempting a triple somersault gave him a permanent limp. Young acrobat Tino (Tony Curtis) tracks Mike down and asks him to teach him the dangerous stunt. Mike first refuses but is convinced by his ex-lover, Rosa (Katy Jurado). Mike and Tino have a shot at the big time, but the two men are driven apart by the scheming of Lola (Gina Lollobrigida), an Italian trampolinist. - 10Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis, Martin Milner
For Fans Of: Drama, Film Noir, Psychological Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this dark and stylish film noir, Lancaster takes on the role of J.J. Hunsecker, a ruthless and powerful New York City gossip columnist who uses his influence for personal gain. His intimidating presence and chilling performance make this film an essential viewing for anyone looking to appreciate the depth of his acting abilities.New York City newspaper writer J.J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster) holds considerable sway over public opinion with his Broadway column, but one thing that he can't control is his younger sister, Susan (Susan Harrison), who is in a relationship with aspiring jazz guitarist Steve Dallas (Marty Milner). Hunsecker strongly disproves of the romance and recruits publicist Sidney Falco (Tony Curtis) to find a way to split the couple, no matter how ruthless the method.- #81 of 91 onThe 90 Best Black And White Movies
- #28 of 36 onThe Greatest Classic Noir Movies, Ranked
- #7 of 10 on10+ Movies And Shows With Smell In The Title
- 11Clark Gable, Burt Lancaster, Don Rickles
For Fans Of: War, Action, Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this tense and atmospheric submarine war film, Lancaster plays Lieutenant Jim Bledsoe, the executive officer aboard a U.S. Navy sub tasked with sinking Japanese ships in the Pacific during WWII. His captivating performance as a loyal and determined officer showcases his ability to command respect on screen while conveying the claustrophobic tension of life beneath the sea.Run Silent, Run Deep is a 1958 film starring Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster, based on the novel of the same name by Commander Edward L. Beach, Jr.. The title refers to "silent running", a submarine stealth tactic. The story describes WWII submarine conflicts in the Pacific Ocean, and deals with themes of vengeance, endurance, courage, loyalty and honor, and how these can be tested.More Run Silent, Run Deep- #52 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #3 of 52 onThe 50+ Best Submarine Movies
- #27 of 40 onThe Best Novels About World War 2
- 12Burt Lancaster, Katharine Hepburn, Wendell Corey
For Fans Of: Drama, Romantic Comedy
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this charming adaptation of N. Richard Nash's play, Lancaster shines as Bill Starbuck, a charismatic con man who brings hope and love to a drought-stricken town while romancing a lonely spinster played by Katharine Hepburn. The compelling dynamic between Lancaster and Hepburn makes for delightful viewing as they navigate their characters' complex emotions.During the Great Depression, a drought is wreaking havoc on a small, destitute Kansas town. Bill Starbuck (Burt Lancaster), a slick grifter, arrives in town, promising he can make it rain in exchange for $100. His offer is accepted by H. C. Curry (Cameron Prudhomme), a rancher whose spinster daughter, Lizzie (Katharine Hepburn), is desperate for a suitor. Lizzie finally finds confidence when Starbuck, ever the smooth talker, convinces her she's beautiful. - 13Burt Lancaster, Charles Bickford, Nestor Paiva
For Fans Of: Biographical, Sports Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: As the legendary Native American athlete Jim Thorpe in this inspiring biopic, Lancaster delivers an athletic and heartfelt performance that takes viewers from Thorpe's time at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School through his Olympic triumphs and professional football career. This emotionally charged film highlights both Lancaster's physical prowess and tender emotional range.Jim Thorpe – All-American is a 1951 biographical film produced by Warner Bros. and directed by Michael Curtiz, honoring Jim Thorpe, the great Native American athlete who won medals at the 1912 Olympics and distinguished himself in various sports, both in college and on professional teams. The film starred Burt Lancaster as Thorpe and featured some archival footage of both the 1912 and 1932 Summer Olympics, as well as other footage of the real Thorpe. Charles Bickford played the famed coach Glenn Scobey "Pop" Warner, who was Thorpe's longtime mentor. Bickford also narrated the film, which told of Thorpe's athletic rise and fall, ending on an upbeat note when he was asked by a group of boys to coach them. Phyllis Thaxter portrayed Thorpe's first wife. Warner Bros. used a number of contract players in the film, as well as a few Native American actors. - 14
The Unforgiven
Burt Lancaster, Audrey Hepburn, Lillian GishFor Fans Of: Drama, Western
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: As Ben Zachary in this riveting western drama directed by John Huston, Lancaster portrays the strong-willed eldest son of a Texas family embroiled in racial tensions when it is revealed their adopted sister may be Native American by birth. His commanding presence anchors the film, making it an essential watch for fans of gritty western tales.The Zachary family live quietly on a cattle ranch in post-Civil War Texas. A stranger (Joseph Wiseman) appears and disturbs their bucolic existence by spreading a malicious rumor that their adopted daughter, Rachel (Audrey Hepburn), is a Kiowa Native American. Soon, the Zachary brothers (Audie Murphy, Burt Lancaster) and their mother (Lillian Gish) must defend themselves from both racist whites and vengeful Kiowa.More The Unforgiven- #98 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #114 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #23 of 46 onThe Best 1960s Western Movies, Ranked
- 15Claudia Cardinale, Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon
For Fans Of: Historical Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In Luchino Visconti's lavish historical epic set during Italy’s Risorgimento period, Lancaster gives an elegant and nuanced performance as the aging Prince of Salina, a Sicilian aristocrat grappling with the changes sweeping through his country. This visually stunning film showcases Lancaster's ability to embody both power and vulnerability, making it a must-see for fans.The Leopard is a 1963 Italian film by director Luchino Visconti, based on Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's novel of the same name.More The Leopard- #151 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #89 of 424 onThe Greatest Movies in World Cinema History
- #169 of 195 onThe 150+ Best Hipster Movies
- 16Burt Lancaster, Janet Landgard, Janice Rule
For Fans Of: Drama, Psychological
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In one of his most daring roles, Lancaster stars as Ned Merrill in this surreal adaptation of John Cheever's short story. As he swims from pool to pool through suburban Connecticut, gradually uncovering layers of personal disillusionment and despair, Lancaster delivers a haunting and introspective performance that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.Well-off ad man Ned Merrill (Burt Lancaster) is visiting a friend when he notices the abundance of backyard pools that populate their upscale suburb. Ned suddenly decides that he'd like to travel the eight miles back to his own home by simply swimming across every pool in town. Soon, Ned's journey becomes harrowing; at each house, he is somehow confronted with a reminder of his romantic, domestic and economic failures, until a final visit with an old flame (Janice Rule) leaves him devastated. - 17Burt Lancaster, Bruce Davison, Jorge Luke
For Fans Of: Western
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: As an experienced scout assisting the U.S. cavalry track down a renegade Apache leader in this gritty western thriller, Lancaster delivers a battle-weary yet resolute performance that captures the harsh realities of frontier life. Fans will appreciate his rugged authenticity as he navigates treacherous terrain and confronts the brutal violence of the American West.When word arrives that Apache warrior Ulzana has assembled a war party and left the reservation, the United States Army pegs veteran tracker McIntosh (Burt Lancaster) and Apache Ke-Ni-Tay (Jorge Luke) to lead a young, prejudiced lieutenant's (Bruce Davison) troops to find Ulzana. Outmaneuvered and unfamiliar with the terrain, the cavalry struggles to stop the long-mistreated and raging Apaches from destroying everything in their path in what initially seem like senseless acts of violence.More Ulzana's Raid- #174 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #16 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- #26 of 46 onThe 45+ Best Sexy Rated-R Western Movies
- 18Burt Lancaster, Nick Cravat, Eva Bartok
For Fans Of: Adventure, Comedy, Action
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: With swashbuckling action and undeniable charm, Lancaster stars as Captain Vallo in this lighthearted adventure film set on the high seas during the Caribbean rebellion against Spain. His acrobatic skills, captivating smile, and roguish charisma make The Crimson Pirate an entertaining romp that highlights his comedic talents alongside his athletic prowess.Capt. Vallo (Burt Lancaster), the leader of a roving band of pirates, hijacks a ship filled with expensive cargo. When a crew member (Leslie Bradley) tells him the ship was bound for an island whose inhabitants have risen up against the king, Vallo hatches a scheme to sell guns to the rebels and take their leader in for a reward. But once Vallo and his lieutenant, Ojo (Nick Cravat), are on the island, their plans change when they meet Consuelo (Eva Bartok) and the other resistance fighters. - 19Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, Rhonda Fleming
For Fans Of: Western, Biographical
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Lancaster joins forces with Kirk Douglas in this classic western recounting the legendary 1881 gun battle in Tombstone, Arizona. As Marshal Wyatt Earp, he brings a sense of moral authority and steadfast determination to his role, creating a captivating on-screen partnership with Douglas as the charismatic yet volatile Doc Holliday.Lawman Wyatt Earp (Burt Lancaster) and gunfighter John "Doc" Holliday (Kirk Douglas) find themselves together again in Tombstone, Ariz., despite the tumultuous history between them. Earp comes to Arizona on a mission to bring the Clayton clan to justice. Meanwhile, Holliday becomes incensed with the decision of Kate Fisher (Jo Van Fleet) to turn him down in favor of another gunfighter (John Ireland), ultimately leading Holliday to join Earp's side in a confrontation with the Claytons.- #73 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #10 of 63 onThe Best Western Movies of the 1950s
- #8 of 13 onThe Best Western Movies Streaming On Hulu
- 20Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis, Yvonne De Carlo
For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Film Noir
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this moody film noir directed by Robert Siodmak, Lancaster plays Steve Thompson, an armored truck driver caught in a dangerous love triangle with his ex-wife (Yvonne De Carlo) and her new gangster lover (Dan Duryea). His tormented portrayal of a man caught between passion and loyalty demonstrates his skill in conveying inner turmoil on screen.Criss Cross is a 1949 film noir starring Burt Lancaster, directed by Robert Siodmak from Don Tracy's novel of the same name. This black-and-white film was shot partly on location in the Bunker Hill section of Los Angeles. The film was written by Daniel Fuchs. Franz Planer's cinematography creates a black-and-white film noir world. Miklós Rózsa scored the film's soundtrack. It was remade as The Underneath in 1995. The production nearly derailed when producer Mark Hellinger died suddenly before filming began. Lancaster claimed he was unhappy with the way Siodmak and Fuchs had reworked Hellinger's idea of a racetrack heist into a fatal romantic triangle.More Criss Cross- Dig Deeper...Burt Lancaster Film Noir Roles
- #15 of 36 onThe Greatest Classic Noir Movies, Ranked
- #12 of 19 on19 Movies Where An Ordinary Person Breaks Bad
- 21Rita Hayworth, David Niven, Burt Lancaster
For Fans Of: Drama, Romance
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this ensemble drama set at an English seaside hotel, Lancaster turns in a vulnerable performance as John Malcolm, a down-on-his-luck writer entangled in emotional turmoil with his ex-wife and fellow guests. His complex portrayal of a man seeking redemption offers fans a chance to see him in a more intimate setting.Separate Tables is a 1958 film adaptation of Terence Rattigan's play of the same name, directed by Delbert Mann. - 22Gary Cooper, Burt Lancaster, Denise Darcel
For Fans Of: Western, Adventure, Action
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Teaming up with screen legend Gary Cooper, Lancaster brings his roguish charm and swagger to the role of Joe Erin, an American adventurer hired by Emperor Maximilian during the Mexican Revolution. This action-packed western showcases his undeniable chemistry with Cooper and offers plenty of excitement for fans of classic cinema.Following the American Civil War, veteran Benjamin Trane (Gary Cooper) and gunslinger Joe Erin (Burt Lancaster) are just two of many men who head to Mexico as mercenaries. When Emperor Maximillian (George Macready) recruits their services, they reluctantly work together, since the price is right. Trane and Erin are to escort Countess Marie Duvarre (Denise Darcel) to Vera Cruz -- but when they find a wealth of gold hidden in the stagecoach, the original plan no longer applies.More Vera Cruz- #150 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #29 of 63 onThe Best Western Movies of the 1950s
- #33 of 51 onThe 50+ Best Movies of 1954
- 23Burt Lancaster, Peter Riegert, Denis Lawson
For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this quirky and heartening comedy-drama, Lancaster shines as Felix Happer, an eccentric oil tycoon who becomes captivated by a small Scottish village targeted for development by his company. His whimsical performance adds depth and humor to this charming tale about the importance of community and connection.Up-and-coming Houston oil executive "Mac" MacIntyre (Peter Riegert) gets more than he bargained for when a seemingly simple business trip to Scotland changes his outlook on life. Sent by his colorful boss (Burt Lancaster) to the small village of Ferness, Mac is looking to quickly buy out the townspeople so his company can build a new refinery. But after a taste of country life Mac begins to question whether he is on the right side of this transaction.More Local Hero- #43 of 72 onThe 70+ Best Movies From 1983, Ranked
- #209 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #95 of 102 onThe Best British Comedy Movies
- 24Burt Lancaster, Ava Gardner, Edmond O'Brien
For Fans Of: Crime, Film Noir, Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In his striking film debut, Lancaster plays "Swede" Andersen, a former boxer turned criminal whose past catches up with him when two hitmen arrive in town. As the story unfolds through flashbacks revealing Swede's tumultuous journey into the underworld, viewers are treated to the magnetic presence that would make Lancaster one of Hollywood's biggest stars.Two hit men walk into a diner asking for a man called "the Swede" (Burt Lancaster). When the killers find the Swede, he's expecting them and doesn't put up a fight. Since the Swede had a life insurance policy, an investigator (Edmond O'Brien), on a hunch, decides to look into the murder. As the Swede's past is laid bare, it comes to light that he was in love with a beautiful woman (Ava Gardner) who may have lured him into pulling off a bank robbery overseen by another man (Albert Dekker).More The Killers- Dig Deeper...Burt Lancaster Film Noir Roles
- #8 of 19 on19 Movies Where An Ordinary Person Breaks Bad
- #6 of 92 onThe 90+ Best Film Noirs Of All Time
- 25Burt Lancaster, Shirley Booth, Terry Moore
For Fans Of: Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this adaptation of William Inge's play, Lancaster delivers a raw and searing portrayal of Doc Delaney, an alcoholic struggling with sobriety while facing difficulties in his marriage. Alongside Shirley Booth's Oscar-winning performance as his wife Lola, the film explores themes of love, loss, and the quest for personal redemption.Two decades after their hasty wedding, Doc (Burt Lancaster) and Lola (Shirley Booth) are stuck in a deadening and loveless marriage. Doc, who dropped out of medical school when Lola got pregnant, blames Lola for the loss of his life's dream. Lola, who never recovered emotionally from the miscarriage she suffered shortly after their wedding, still mourns the loss of her beloved dog, Sheba. When a beautiful young lodger (Terry Moore) enters their home, long-repressed emotions explode. - 26Burt Lancaster, Shelley Winters, Ossie Davis
For Fans Of: Western, Comedy
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In this rollicking comic western, Lancaster teams up with Ossie Davis as a mismatched duo of trappers caught in a web of deceit and treachery while attempting to recover stolen furs. Displaying his comedic chops alongside his action-hero status, this entertaining romp is sure to delight fans of both genres.Illiterate fur trapper Joe Bass (Burt Lancaster) is coerced by some Kiowa Indians into trading his haul for a well-educated, escaped slave named Joseph Lee (Ossie Davis). Bass seeks to track the Indians and recover his treasure, while Joseph wants to travel to Mexico, where slavery is illegal. Their plans are complicated by the arrival of a band of scalphunters, led by Jim Howie (Telly Savalas), who want to kill the Indians, claim the furs and resell the black man. - 27Burt Lancaster, Susan Clark, Jon Cypher
For Fans Of: Western
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: As the titular character in this western tale of revenge and justice, Lancaster exudes quiet determination as an aging lawman seeking retribution for the wrongful death of an innocent man. His intense performance and steadfast resolve make this film a compelling showcase of his enduring talent.When rancher Frank Tanner (Jon Cypher) hoodwinks local lawman Bob Valdez (Burt Lancaster) into shooting an innocent man, Valdez is remorseful and tries to take up a collection for the widow. Tanner won't hear of it, however, and punishes Valdez by driving him into the desert with a cross strapped to his back. Valdez is freed by one of Tanner's henchmen (Richard Jordan) and, after convalescing, begins waging a one-man war against Tanner, picking off his men with his trusty Sharps rifle.More Valdez Is Coming- #152 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #22 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- #23 of 28 onThe 25+ Best PG-13 Western Movies
- 28Burt Lancaster, Virginia Mayo, Robert Douglas
For Fans Of: Adventure, Action
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Drawing upon his acrobatic background once again, Lancaster stars as Dardo Bartoli, a charismatic rebel fighting against oppressive invaders in medieval Italy. With thrilling stunts and swashbuckling heroics aplenty, he brings an infectious energy to this spirited adventure film.Italian archer Dardo Bartoli (Burt Lancaster) is waging a war against the Hessians. His grudge against their leader, Count "The Hawk" Ulrich (Frank Allenby), is more than simply political. Long ago, he took away Dardo's beautiful wife, Francesca. Then, under his former spouse's orders, Ulrich returned to steal the couple's son, Rudi. Incensed, Dardo kidnaps Ulrich's comely niece, Anne (Virginia Mayo), and slowly emerges as a rebel leader who may be able to drive out the Hessians for good. - 29Burt Lancaster, Jean Peters, John McIntire
For Fans Of: Western, Historical
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: In one of his earliest roles, Lancaster stars as Massai, an Apache warrior battling encroaching settlers in post-Civil War New Mexico. While the film's depiction of Native Americans can feel dated today, it nonetheless showcases a young Lancaster's passion and commitment to every role he took on.Adapted from the 1936 novel "Bronco Apache," this groundbreaking Western casts a sympathetic eye on the struggles of Native Americans in the post-bellum West. Massai (Burt Lancaster), the only Apache warrior still fighting after the surrender of Geronimo, is arrested and placed on a train headed for a Florida prison. After a daring escape, he begins the trip back home to his lover, Nalinle (Jean Peters), on foot -- but the journey is long and treacherous, and the authorities are closing in.More Apache- #178 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #45 of 63 onThe Best Western Movies of the 1950s
- #45 of 51 onThe 50+ Best Movies of 1954
- 30Claudia Cardinale, Burt Lancaster, Helmut Berger
For Fans Of: Drama, Mystery
Reasons to Watch if you Love Burt Lancaster: Collaborating once more with director Luchino Visconti in this Italian drama about loneliness and human connection, Lancaster sensitively portrays a retired professor whose life is disrupted by the arrival of new neighbors. Exploring timely themes through memorable performances, it's a fitting testament to Lancaster's depth and range as an actor.Conversation Piece is a 1974 film by Italian director Luchino Visconti. The film features an international cast including the American actor Burt Lancaster, the Austrian Helmut Berger and the Italians Silvana Mangano and Claudia Cardinale and the French actress Dominique Sanda in a cameo as the professor's mother. It was shot in English language, however, an Italian dubbed version was also produced at the time, in which Lancaster's and Berger's lines are dubbed into Italian by other actors. The film was censored in Spain for the nude and political content and because Francisco Franco's daughter and son-in-law are mentioned. However, it was re-released there, uncut, in 1983. The word cunt was removed from its UK original release but restored on the British DVD edition.