The 30+ Best Rita Hayworth Movies
1Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, George MacreadyRita Hayworth's mesmerizing performance in the 1946 film-noir classic, Gilda, is undoubtedly one of her most memorable roles in Hollywood history. Directed by Charles Vidor, the sultry tale of love, betrayal, and revenge showcases Hayworth as the enigmatic femme fatale, Gilda Mundson Farrell. Set against the backdrop of a Buenos Aires casino, this captivating story of passion and deception features Glenn Ford as Johnny Farrell, an American gambler who becomes entangled in a dangerous web spun by his boss and former lover. The film's numerous plot twists and turns keep viewers enthralled while Rita Hayworth's legendary striptease scene remains etched in cinematic lore. With its sharp dialogue and stunning cinematography, Gilda is a must-watch for any true fan of classic cinema.
2Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, Adolphe MenjouIn the enchanting 1942 musical comedy You Were Never Lovelier, Rita Hayworth stars alongside Fred Astaire as Maria Acuña, the headstrong daughter of a wealthy Argentinean businessman (Adolphe Menjou). When Maria's father concocts an elaborate scheme to marry her off by inventing a secret admirer, Astaire's American dancer character, Robert Davis, gets caught up in the deception. Featuring captivating dance sequences and a delightful score by Jerome Kern and Johnny Mercer, this charming film showcases the undeniable chemistry between Hayworth and Astaire while highlighting Maria's fierce independence.
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3Rita Hayworth, Gene Kelly, Eve ArdenRita Hayworth shines brightly as Rusty Parker in the 1944 musical comedy Cover Girl. Directed by Charles Vidor and co-starring Gene Kelly, this delightful tale follows aspiring chorus girl Rusty on her journey to fame after she lands on the cover of a prestigious magazine. Her newfound success leads to romantic complications with her boyfriend (Kelly) and offers from Broadway producers eager to capitalize on her beauty and talent. Boasting an Oscar-winning score by Jerome Kern and Ira Gershwin along with dazzling dance numbers choreographed by Kelly himself, Cover Girl remains an enduring testament to Hayworth's undeniable charm and screen presence.
4Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, Robert BenchleyRita Hayworth dances her way into viewers' hearts in the 1941 musical comedy You'll Never Get Rich. Starring opposite Fred Astaire once more, she plays Sheila Winthrop, a chorus girl who becomes romantically involved with theater producer Robert Curtis (Astaire). When Curtis finds himself drafted into the army after being wrongly accused of stealing funds from his production company, he must navigate military life while trying to win back Sheila's affections. With its infectious Cole Porter tunes and dazzling dance routines featuring Hayworth and Astaire's dynamic partnership, You'll Never Get Rich is a delightful romp through the best of classic Hollywood entertainment.
5Rita Hayworth, Orson Welles, Everett SloaneDirected by Orson Welles, who also stars alongside Rita Hayworth in this noir masterpiece from 1947, The Lady from Shanghai tells the thrilling tale of an Irish sailor drawn into a web of deceit and murder when he agrees to work for a wealthy lawyer and his beautiful wife (Hayworth). Renowned for its innovative cinematography and labyrinthine plot twists, this gripping film culminates in a climactic confrontation within a hall of mirrors – an unforgettable sequence that has become synonymous with cinematic brilliance. As Elsa Bannister, Hayworth delivers a chilling performance marked by seduction and duplicity that ranks among her finest work on screen.
6Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, Alexander ScourbyIn the 1952 film-noir drama Affair in Trinidad, Rita Hayworth reunites with her Gilda co-star Glenn Ford for another sultry tale of love and betrayal. Directed by Vincent Sherman, the story centers around Hayworth's character Chris Emery, a nightclub singer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous scheme when her husband's mysterious death leads to an investigation by both the police and American agent Steve Emery (Ford). As the intrigue unfolds, Chris must navigate a treacherous web of lies and deception while trying to protect herself and those she loves. With its lush island setting and crackling chemistry between Hayworth and Ford, Affair in Trinidad serves as a captivating showcase for the legendary screen siren's talents.
7Rita Hayworth, David Niven, Burt LancasterRita Hayworth delivers a powerful performance alongside an all-star ensemble cast in the 1958 drama Separate Tables. Directed by Delbert Mann and adapted from Terence Rattigan's celebrated play, the film tells the intertwined stories of various guests at a British seaside hotel who grapple with their personal struggles as they interact with one another. As Ann Shankland, Hayworth portrays a glamorous but troubled woman whose past mistakes come back to haunt her during her stay at the hotel. With its poignant examination of human relationships and superb acting from a cast that includes Burt Lancaster, Deborah Kerr, David Niven, and Wendy Hiller, Separate Tables stands as an enduring classic in dramatic cinema.
8Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Rita HayworthIn Howard Hawks' riveting 1939 adventure drama Only Angels Have Wings, Rita Hayworth stars opposite Cary Grant in a compelling tale of aerial risk-taking set amidst the treacherous South American mountains. Grant plays Geoff Carter, manager of small air freight company Barranca Airways, while Hayworth appears as his former flame Judy MacPherson – whose arrival threatens to throw their lives into disarray once more. Featuring daring flight sequences and intense emotional conflicts between its characters, this gripping film offers viewers not only thrilling action but also an insightful exploration of camaraderie in the face of adversity.
9Rita Hayworth, Robert Mitchum, Jack LemmonThe sultry 1957 adventure drama Fire Down Below pairs Rita Hayworth with Robert Mitchum and Jack Lemmon in a simmering tale of love, ambition, and betrayal set on the Caribbean island of Tobago. Directed by Robert Parrish, the film follows the exploits of expatriate Americans Tony (Mitchum) and Felix (Lemmon), who become entangled in various schemes as they operate their ramshackle boat along the island's coast. The arrival of beautiful femme fatale Irena (Hayworth) soon tests the limits of their friendship and loyalty, leading to dire consequences for all involved. With its lush tropical backdrop and a crackling sense of tension between its stars, Fire Down Below provides a compelling exploration of human nature at its most volatile.
10Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, Ron RandellRita Hayworth captivates audiences once again as Carmen in Charles Vidor's vivid 1948 adaptation of Prosper Mérimée's iconic novella. Set against the picturesque backdrop of 19th-century Spain, The Loves of Carmen follows naïve soldier Don José Lizarabengoa (Glenn Ford) as he becomes irresistibly drawn into Carmen's world of seduction and treachery, willingly sacrificing his honor for her affections. This passionate tale features stunning cinematography as well as authentic flamenco performances that showcase Hayworth's mesmerizing talent for dance – making it an essential viewing experience for fans of classic Hollywood romance.
11Rita Hayworth, Anthony Franciosa, Gig YoungIn Clifford Odets' gripping courtroom drama from 1960, The Story on Page One, Rita Hayworth delivers an emotionally raw performance as Josephine Brown – a woman accused alongside her lover (Anthony Franciosa) in the death of her husband. As their high-profile trial unfolds before an eager public audience, defense attorney Victor Santini (Gig Young) must navigate a tangled web of evidence and deceit to prove their innocence. Riveting in its portrayal of both the personal and legal ramifications of a sensational crime, this film remains an underrated gem in Hayworth's esteemed body of work.
12Rita Hayworth, José Ferrer, Aldo RayRita Hayworth takes on yet another iconic literary character in Curtis Bernhardt's provocative 1953 drama Miss Sadie Thompson. Based on W. Somerset Maugham's short story Rain, the film casts Hayworth as the titular heroine – a spirited entertainer whose arrival on a remote South Pacific island stirs up conflict between military officer Sergeant Phil O'Hara (Aldo Ray) and self-righteous missionary Alfred Davidson (José Ferrer). As tensions simmer beneath the tropical sun, Miss Thompson wrestles with her own desires and regrets amidst a backdrop of moral judgment. Showcasing Hayworth's considerable talents as both an actress and singer, Miss Sadie Thompson offers a potent exploration of love, redemption, and the human spirit.
13James Cagney, Olivia de Havilland, Rita HayworthIn Raoul Walsh's delightful 1941 romantic comedy The Strawberry Blonde, Rita Hayworth stars alongside James Cagney as Virginia Brush – a vivacious young woman who captures the heart of working-class dentist Biff Grimes (Cagney). Set in turn-of-the-century New York City, this nostalgic tale follows Biff as he reminisces about his youthful dreams while nursing a decades-old infatuation for Virginia. With its charming period setting and infectious sense of humor, The Strawberry Blonde serves as a testament to both Cagney and Hayworth's enduring appeal.
14Gary Cooper, Rita Hayworth, Van HeflinIn Robert Rossen's sweeping 1959 western drama They Came to Cordura, Rita Hayworth stars opposite Gary Cooper in a harrowing story of courage under fire during the Mexican Revolution. Cooper plays Major Thomas Thorn, an army officer tasked with selecting five soldiers for commendation – all of whom must undertake a perilous journey to the remote outpost of Cordura. As tensions rise within the group, Hayworth's character Adelaide Geary – a mysterious woman accused of aiding the enemy – becomes embroiled in their desperate struggle for survival. With its gripping narrative and breathtaking cinematography, They Came to Cordura remains an essential entry in the western genre.
15Tyrone Power, Linda Darnell, Rita HayworthRita Hayworth sizzles as sultry socialite Doña Sol des Muire in Rouben Mamoulian's 1941 adaptation of Vicente Blasco Ibáñez's classic novel Blood and Sand. Starring Tyrone Power as ambitious matador Juan Gallardo, this visually sumptuous film tells the tale of his meteoric rise to fame and subsequent downfall due to his obsession with Doña Sol. Featuring stunning Technicolor cinematography and an evocative score by Alfred Newman, Blood and Sand is a feast for the senses that showcases Hayworth's undeniable allure.
16The Lady in Question
Brian Aherne, Rita Hayworth, Glenn FordIn Charles Vidor's 1940 crime thriller The Lady in Question, Rita Hayworth stars alongside Glenn Ford and Brian Aherne as Natalie Roguin – a woman accused of murder whose fate rests in the hands of her juror turned lover Andre Morestan (Aherne). As he seeks to uncover the truth behind her alleged crimes, Morestan finds himself increasingly drawn into Natalie's seductive web – leading to twists and turns that keep viewers guessing until the very end. Boasting strong performances from its lead trio, this engrossing noir drama showcases Hayworth in one of her earliest femme fatale roles.
17Rita Hayworth, Frank Sinatra, Kim NovakRita Hayworth sizzles once more alongside Frank Sinatra in George Sidney's sultry 1957 musical Pal Joey. Based on the hit stage production and featuring songs by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, this scintillating tale follows ambitious nightclub singer Joey Evans (Sinatra) as he becomes romantically entangled with both wealthy widow Vera Simpson (Hayworth) and innocent chorus girl Linda English (Kim Novak). As their romantic rivalries escalate amidst a backdrop of dazzling song-and-dance numbers, Pal Joey showcases Hayworth's magnetic charm while highlighting her enduring ability to captivate audiences.
18Rita Hayworth, Victor Mature, John SuttonRita Hayworth takes center stage as celebrated musical performer Sally Elliott in Irving Cummings' spirited 1942 biopic My Gal Sal. Charting the tumultuous romance between Sally and songwriter Paul Dresser (Victor Mature) as they navigate the highs and lows of life in the entertainment industry, this Technicolor extravaganza features a lively score by Leo Robin and Ralph Rainger that earned it an Academy Award for Best Original Song. With Hayworth's enchanting performance as its centerpiece, My Gal Sal offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of Broadway.
19Rita Hayworth, Lee Bowman, Janet BlairIn Victor Saville's 1945 musical drama Tonight and Every Night, Rita Hayworth stars as Rosalind Bruce – an American singer who finds love amidst the chaos of World War II-era London. As she performs nightly at a popular theater with her fellow entertainers, Rosalind embarks upon a whirlwind romance with RAF pilot Paul Lundy (Lee Bowman) – all while grappling with the realities of life during wartime. Featuring lush Technicolor cinematography and an inspiring score by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn, this heartfelt tribute to the resilience of the human spirit remains an uplifting testament to Hayworth's considerable talents.
20John Wayne, Rita Hayworth, Claudia CardinaleIn Henry Hathaway's sprawling 1964 epic Circus World, Rita Hayworth delivers a riveting performance as former trapeze artist Lili Alfredo – a woman whose past comes back to haunt her when she reunites with former lover Matt Masters (John Wayne) and his traveling circus. As they embark upon a European tour fraught with danger, the estranged couple must confront their shared history while navigating the perils of life under the big top. Boasting an all-star cast that includes Claudia Cardinale and Lloyd Nolan, this visually stunning spectacle offers a thrilling glimpse into the world of circus performers.
21Rita Hayworth, Larry Parks, Marc PlattRita Hayworth dazzles once again in Alexander Hall's whimsical 1947 musical comedy Down to Earth. Portraying Terpsichore – the Greek muse of dance – Hayworth descends from Mount Olympus to modern-day New York City in order to correct a Broadway show that misrepresents her divine nature. Along the way, she becomes romantically involved with the show's producer Danny Miller (Larry Parks) and enchantingly transforms his theatrical production into a celebration of dance. With its delightful blend of fantasy, romance, and dazzling musical numbers by composer George E. Stoll, Down to Earth remains an enduring testament to Hayworth's luminous screen presence.
22Rita Hayworth, Charles Laughton, Stewart GrangerRita Hayworth takes on one of history's most enigmatic figures in William Dieterle's lush 1953 biblical epic Salome. Set against the dramatic backdrop of King Herod's court, this retelling of the infamous tale casts Hayworth as Salome – a princess who becomes ensnared in a deadly game of power and desire as she seeks to save John the Baptist (Alan Badel) from execution. Featuring lavish production values and compelling performances by Charles Laughton as Herod and Judith Anderson as Queen Herodias, Salome serves as a fascinating exploration of love, betrayal, and redemption.
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23Glenn Ford, Elke Sommer, Rita HayworthIn Burt Kennedy's suspenseful 1965 crime drama The Money Trap, Rita Hayworth stars alongside Glenn Ford and Elke Sommer in a tale of greed, deception, and revenge. When detectives Joe Baron (Ford) and Pete Delanos (Ricardo Montalban) stumble upon an illicit scheme involving stolen money from a wealthy doctor (Joseph Cotten), their lives become dangerously entwined with those of Joe's wife Lisa (Hayworth) and her past connections to both men. This tense noir thriller showcases Hayworth in one of her final film roles – delivering yet another captivating performance that leaves audiences enthralled.
24Rita Hayworth, Robert Mitchum, Frank LangellaIn Ralph Nelson's gripping 1972 western The Wrath of God, Rita Hayworth stars opposite Robert Mitchum and Frank Langella as Señora de la Plata – a wealthy landowner who becomes embroiled in a violent struggle for power during the Mexican Revolution. As they navigate a treacherous landscape filled with betrayal and bloodshed, this unlikely trio must forge an uneasy alliance in order to survive the dangers that lie ahead. Featuring thrilling action sequences and a taut script by Jack Higgins, this intense tale of survival showcases Hayworth in one of her final film appearances.
25Rita Hayworth, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.Rita Hayworth shines alongside Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Thomas Mitchell, and Allyn Joslyn in Ben Hecht's 1940 noir drama Angels Over Broadway. Set within the seedy underbelly of New York City's criminal underworld, this atmospheric tale follows a group of desperate characters as they become entangled in various schemes involving theft, blackmail, and redemption. As Nina Barona – a struggling actress who dreams of stardom – Hayworth delivers an engaging performance marked by vulnerability and determination that remains an early highlight of her prolific career.
26Charles Boyer, Rita Hayworth, Edward G. RobinsonRita Hayworth joins an all-star ensemble cast in Julien Duvivier's episodic 1942 drama Tales of Manhattan. Featuring a series of interconnected vignettes centered around the misadventures of a cursed tailcoat, this unique anthology film showcases various aspects of human nature – from ambition and greed to love and redemption. Hayworth appears alongside Charles Boyer in one of the film's most poignant segments, portraying an aspiring actress whose encounter with a suave thief leads to unexpected consequences.
27Tony Martin, Rita Hayworth, Alan MowbrayRita Hayworth takes center stage once more in Joseph Santley's delightful 1940 musical comedy Music in My Heart. Starring opposite Tony Martin, Hayworth plays Patricia O'Malley – a vibrant young woman who falls for aspiring singer Robert Gregory (Martin) as they embark upon a whirlwind romance amidst the backdrop of New York City's bustling theater scene. With its infectious score by composer Leigh Harline and lyricist Ned Washington, this charming film remains an early showcase for Hayworth's considerable talents as both an actress and singer.
28Rita Hayworth, Britt Ekland, Rex HarrisonIn George Marshall's light-hearted 1961 crime caper The Happy Thieves, Rita Hayworth stars alongside Rex Harrison as Eve Lewis – one half of a daring duo who makes their living stealing priceless works of art. When they set their sights on a valuable Goya painting, the pair must navigate a treacherous web of deception involving rival crooks, unscrupulous collectors, and law enforcement officials hot on their trail. This breezy romp through European high society provides ample opportunity for Hayworth to showcase her wit and charm.
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Road to Salina
Rita Hayworth, Robert Walker, Mimsy FarmerIn Georges Lautner's atmospheric 1970 thriller Road to Salina, Rita Hayworth delivers an enigmatic performance as Mara – an isolated widow whose life becomes entangled with that of drifter Jonas (Robert Walker Jr.) when he arrives on the remote island where she resides. As the two form an intimate bond amidst the island's desolate beauty, a series of dark secrets soon begin to surface – leading to shocking revelations that change their lives forever. Haunting and evocative, Road to Salina offers a mesmerizing showcase for Hayworth's dramatic range.
30The Lone Wolf Spy Hunt
Warren William, Ida Lupino, Rita HayworthIn Peter Godfrey's 1939 espionage thriller The Lone Wolf Spy Hunt, Rita Hayworth stars opposite Warren William in an adaptation of Louis Joseph Vance's popular detective novels. When international jewel thief Michael Lanyard (William) becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving stolen government plans, he must rely on his wits and charm to outmaneuver both his criminal adversaries and the police hot on his trail. As love interest Valerie King, Hayworth adds a touch of glamour and intrigue to this fast-paced tale of suspense and adventure.
