Roll out the red carpet and dust off your vintage popcorn machine, because we’re about to take a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of cinema. Welcome to our countdown of the top 20 fan-favorite movies from 1940! This was a year when the silver screen was filled with dashing heroes, captivating heroines, and plots that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. It was a time when movie magic was not about CGI or green screens, but about compelling storytelling, charismatic performances, and the kind of timeless charm that still captivates us today. So, whether you’re a classic film buff, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking for a good old-fashioned movie night, get ready to be transported back to a bygone era of cinematic brilliance. Let’s dive into the celluloid treasure trove of 1940, and see which films have stood the test of time to become fan favorites. Lights, camera, action!
The Great Dictator
“The Great Dictator” is a highly acclaimed movie from 1940 that tells the story of a Jewish barber who finds himself in the midst of a dangerous regime led by the ambitious dictator, Adenoid Hynkel. As the barber tries to escape persecution, Hynkel’s empire continues to grow. Starring Charlie Chaplin, Paulette Goddard, and Jack Oakie, this film offers a compelling narrative that explores themes of power, oppression, and resilience.
The Shop Around the Corner
“The Shop Around the Corner” is a heartwarming romantic comedy from 1940 that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted Movies of that year. Starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, the film tells the story of two employees at a gift shop who can’t stand each other, unaware that they are falling in love through anonymous letters. With a talented cast and a release date of January 12, 1940, this movie is a delightful watch for anyone who enjoys a charming and unexpected love story.
Cast: James Stewart (Alfred Kralik) , Margaret Sullavan (Klara Novak) , Frank Morgan (Hugo Matuschek) , Joseph Schildkraut (Ferencz Vadas) , Sara Haden (Flora) , Felix Bressart (Pirovitch) , William Tracy (Pepi Katona) , Inez Courtney (Ilona) , Sarah Edwards (Woman Customer) , Edwin Maxwell (Doctor) , Charles Halton (Detective) , Charles Smith (Rudy) , Charles Arnt (Policeman (uncredited)) , Joan Blair (Customer (uncredited)) , Mary Carr (Grandmother (uncredited)) , Mabel Colcord (Aunt Anna (uncredited)) , Claire Du Brey (Customer (uncredited)) , William Edmunds (Waiter (uncredited)) , Grace Hayle (Plump Woman (uncredited)) , Mira McKinney (Customer (uncredited)) , Sol Murgi (Restaurant Patron (uncredited)) , Renie Riano (Customer (uncredited)) , Gertrude Simpson (Customer (uncredited)) , Ruth Warren (Customer (uncredited))
Directors: Ernst Lubitsch
Writers: Samson Raphaelson, Miklós László
Tags: lovesickness, budapest, hungary, salesclerk, man woman relationship, pen pals, secret love, love, co-workers relationship, music box, bickering, gift shop, holiday season, christmas, brownnoser
You’re Missing the Point
“You’re Missing the Point” is a hilarious 1940 comedy film starring Cantinflas, Joaquín Pardavé, and Sara García. The story revolves around Cantinflas, who sneaks into a wealthy man’s house to kill a mad dog but is mistaken for his wife’s long-lost brother. As the rich man realizes that his father-in-law’s inheritance can only be claimed when all the siblings are present, he treats Cantinflas like royalty, leading to a series of comical situations. Released on September 11, 1940, this movie is a must-watch for its entertaining plot and talented cast.
Rebecca
“Rebecca” is a captivating movie from 1940 that tells the story of a young woman who marries a fascinating widower, only to discover that she must live in the shadow of his mysterious deceased wife, Rebecca. As she tries to uncover the terrible secret of her cold husband, she also has to contend with the relentless jealousy of the obsessed housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers. Starring Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine, this film is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and dramatic classics.
Cast: Laurence Olivier (Maxim de Winter) , Joan Fontaine (Mrs. de Winter) , George Sanders (Jack Favell) , Judith Anderson (Mrs. Danvers) , Nigel Bruce (Major Giles Lacy) , Reginald Denny (Frank Crawley) , C. Aubrey Smith (Colonel Julyan) , Gladys Cooper (Beatrice Lacy) , Florence Bates (Edythe Van Hopper) , Melville Cooper (Coroner) , Leo G. Carroll (Dr. Baker) , Leonard Carey (Ben) , Lumsden Hare (Tabbs) , Edward Fielding (Frith) , Philip Winter (Robert) , Forrester Harvey (Chalcroft) , Bunny Beatty (Maid (uncredited)) , Billy Bevan (Policeman (uncredited)) , Egon Brecher (Hotel Desk Clerk (uncredited)) , Gino Corrado (Manager of Princesse Hotel (uncredited)) , Alfred Hitchcock (Man Outside Phone Booth (uncredited)) , Leyland Hodgson (Mullen (uncredited)) , Alphonse Martell (Hotel Headwaiter (uncredited)) , William H. O’Brien (Hotel Waiter (uncredited)) , Ronald R. Rondell (Hotel Dining Room Guest (uncredited))
Directors: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Daphne du Maurier, Philip MacDonald, Robert E. Sherwood, Joan Harrison, Michael Hogan
Tags: monte carlo, based on novel or book, age difference, obsession, bride, cornwall, england, love, film noir, rural area, devotion, housekeeper, death, estate, costume party, second wife
The Grapes of Wrath
“The Grapes of Wrath” is a powerful and emotional movie released in 1940. Starring Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, and John Carradine, it tells the story of Tom Joad, who returns home after being in jail only to find his family evicted from their farm. Determined to start anew, they embark on a journey to California, hoping for a better life. With a stellar cast and a gripping plot, this film is a must-watch for anyone seeking a moving and inspiring story from the 1940s.
The Philadelphia Story
“The Philadelphia Story” is a classic movie from 1940 starring Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, and James Stewart. It tells the story of a wealthy woman who is about to remarry, but things get complicated when her ex-husband and a nosy reporter show up, leading her to discover some truths about herself. With a star-studded cast and a release date of December 5, 1940, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of that year.
Cast: Cary Grant (C.K. Dexter Haven) , Katharine Hepburn (Tracy Lord) , James Stewart (Macaulay ‘Mike’ Connor) , Ruth Hussey (Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Imbrie) , John Howard (George Kittredge) , Roland Young (Uncle Willie) , John Halliday (Seth Lord) , Mary Nash (Margaret Lord) , Virginia Weidler (Dinah Lord) , Henry Daniell (Sidney Kidd) , Lionel Pape (Edward) , Rex Evans (Thomas) , King Baggot (Wedding Guest (uncredited)) , Hillary Brooke (Main Line Society Woman (uncredited)) , Veda Buckland (Elsie (uncredited)) , Lita Chevret (Manicurist (uncredited)) , Russ Clark (John the Chauffeur (uncredited)) , David Clyde (Mac (uncredited)) , Robert De Bruce (Dr. Parsons (uncredited)) , Dorothy Fay (Main Line Society Woman (uncredited)) , Claude King (Uncle Willie’s Butler (uncredited)) , Eric Mayne (Wedding Guest (uncredited)) , Florine McKinney (Main Line Society Woman (uncredited)) , Lee Phelps (Bartender (uncredited)) , Hilda Plowright (Librarian (uncredited))
Directors: George Cukor
Writers: Philip Barry, Donald Ogden Stewart, Waldo Salt
Tags: philadelphia, pennsylvania, photographer, strong woman, swimming pool, remarriage, hangover, reporter, black and white, divorcee, socialite, ex-husband ex-wife relationship, high society, fiancé fiancée relationship, divorced couple, family estate, inebriated, imminent wedding, kid sister, love quadrangle
Waterloo Bridge
“Waterloo Bridge” is a captivating movie set on the brink of World War II. It follows a British officer who reminisces about his past during World War I, particularly his encounter with a talented ballerina named Myra. Their love story takes a tragic turn when Myra is thrown out of the ballet corps and believes her true love has died in action. However, fate brings them back together, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the hardships of war. Starring Vivien Leigh and Robert Taylor, this heartfelt film was released on May 17, 1940.
Cast: Vivien Leigh (Myra) , Robert Taylor (Roy Cronin) , Lucile Watson (Lady Margaret Cronin) , Virginia Field (Kitty) , Maria Ouspenskaya (Madame Olga Kirowa) , C. Aubrey Smith (The Duke) , Janet Shaw (Maureen) , Janet Waldo (Elsa) , Steffi Duna (Lydia) , Virginia Carroll (Sylvia) , Leda Nicova (Marie) , Florence Baker (Beatrice) , Margery Manning (Mary) , Frances MacInerney (Violet) , Eleanor Stewart (Grace) , Lowden Adams (The Duke’s Butler (uncredited)) , Harry Allen (Taxi Driver (uncredited)) , Jimmy Aubrey (Cockney in Air-Raid Shelter (uncredited)) , Phyllis Barry (Second Girl at Estate Dance (uncredited)) , Colin Campbell (Groom (uncredited)) , James Carlisle (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Rita Carlyle (Flower Woman on Bridge (uncredited)) , Leo G. Carroll (Policeman (uncredited)) , David Cavendish (Generous Man at Estate Dance (uncredited)) , David Clyde (Barnes – Cronin’s Butler (uncredited))
Directors: Mervyn LeRoy
Writers: Robert E. Sherwood, George Froeschel, Hans Rameau, S. N. Behrman
Tags: suicide, world war ii, world war i, bridge, flashback, based on play or musical, british soldier, air raid, star crossed lovers, lucky charm, ballerina, 1910s
Remember the Night
“Remember the Night” is a heartwarming movie from 1940 that tells the story of Jack, an assistant District Attorney, who brings home Lee, a shoplifter he caught, for Christmas. As they spend time together, an unexpected love blossoms between them. Starring Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray, this film is a delightful watch that captures the magic of the holiday season.
Cast: Barbara Stanwyck (Lee Leander) , Fred MacMurray (Jack Sargent) , Beulah Bondi (Mrs. Sargent) , Elizabeth Patterson (Aunt Emma) , Willard Robertson (Francis X. O’Leary) , Sterling Holloway (Willie Simms) , Charles Waldron (Judge in New York) , Paul Guilfoyle (District Attorney) , Charles Arnt (Tom (as Charlie Arnt)) , John Wray (Hank) , Thomas W. Ross (Mr. Emory) , Fred ‘Snowflake’ Toones (Rufus (as Snowflake)) , Tom Kennedy (‘Fat’ Mike) , Georgia Caine (Lee’s Mother) , Virginia Brissac (Mrs. Emory) , Spencer Charters (Judge (At Rummage Sale)) , Jean Acker (Jury Member (uncredited)) , Ambrose Barker (Customs Official (uncredited)) , John Beck (Lee’s Stepfather (uncredited)) , Brooks Benedict (Courtroom Spectator (uncredited)) , Avril Cameron (Jury Member (uncredited)) , Chester Clute (Jewelry Salesman (uncredited)) , Frank Conklin (Jury Member (uncredited)) , Harry Depp (Jury Member (uncredited)) , Edmund Elton (Minister (uncredited))
Directors: Mitchell Leisen
Writers: Preston Sturges
Tags: new year’s eve, indiana, usa, court case, respect, road trip, niagara falls, redemption, falling in love, kindness, family, district attorney, prosecutor, bail bondsman, barn dance, christmas, return home, shoplifter, mother daughter relationship
His Girl Friday
“His Girl Friday” is a captivating romantic comedy from 1940 that revolves around Walter Burns, a cunning newspaper publisher, and his attempts to win back his estranged wife, who also happens to be his star reporter. With a stellar cast including Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell, the movie takes you on a hilarious journey as Walter uses his knowledge of his wife’s weakness for a good scoop to keep her from leaving him for a new love interest. Released on January 18, 1940, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of that year.
Cast: Cary Grant (Walter Burns) , Rosalind Russell (Hildy Johnson) , Ralph Bellamy (Bruce Baldwin) , Gene Lockhart (Sheriff Hartwell) , Helen Mack (Mollie Malloy) , Porter Hall (Murphy) , Ernest Truex (Bensinger) , Cliff Edwards (Endicott) , Clarence Kolb (Mayor) , Roscoe Karns (McCue) , Frank Jenks (Wilson) , Regis Toomey (Sanders) , Abner Biberman (Louie) , Frank Orth (Duffy) , John Qualen (Earl Williams) , Alma Kruger (Mrs. Baldwin) , Billy Gilbert (Joe Pettibone) , Pat West (Warden Cooley) , Edwin Maxwell (Dr. Egelhoffer) , Irving Bacon (Gus (uncredited)) , Wade Boteler (Mike (uncredited)) , Harry C. Bradley (Insurance Doctor (uncredited)) , Wheaton Chambers (Elevator Passenger (uncredited)) , Edmund Cobb (Cop (uncredited)) , Ann Doran (Newspaper Office Worker (uncredited))
Directors: Howard Hawks
Writers: Charles Lederer, Ben Hecht, Charles MacArthur
Tags: suicide, prison, journalist, journalism, based on play or musical, fugitive, wager, screwball comedy, corrupt politician, newspaper editor, insurance agent, fiancé fiancée relationship, press room, political corruption, rolltop desk, reprieve, bride-to-be, ex spouses, imminent execution, convicted murderer, dialogue driven
The Letter
“The Letter” is a gripping 1940 movie starring Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, and James Stephenson. Set in the backdrop of a murder, the film follows the story of a woman who finds herself under suspicion after shooting a man. With a compelling plot and a stellar cast, this movie is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of suspenseful dramas from the 1940s.
Night Train to Munich
“Night Train to Munich” is a thrilling World War II movie set in Czechoslovakia in 1939. It follows the story of inventor Axel Bomasch, who manages to escape the German invasion and reach England. However, the Nazis are determined to capture him and use his knowledge for their destructive plans. With a talented cast including Margaret Lockwood, Rex Harrison, and Paul Henreid, this movie promises an exciting and suspenseful ride. Released in 1940, it’s definitely one of the best voted movies of that year.
Cast: Margaret Lockwood (Anna Bomasch) , Rex Harrison (Gus Bennett) , Paul Henreid (Karl Marsen) , Basil Radford (Charters) , Naunton Wayne (Caldicott) , James Harcourt (Axel Bomasch) , Felix Aylmer (Dr. Fredericks) , Wyndham Goldie (Dryton) , Roland Culver (Roberts) , Eliot Makeham (Schwab) , Raymond Huntley (Kampenfeldt) , Austin Trevor (Capt. Prada) , Kenneth Kent (Controller) , C. V. France (Admiral Hassinger) , Frederick Valk (Gestapo Officer) , Morland Graham (Teleferic Attendant) , Adolf Hitler (Himself (archive footage)) , David Horne (Czech Official (uncredited)) , Wilfred Walter (Czech Official (uncredited)) , Winifred Oughton (Martha (uncredited)) , John Wengraf (KL Physician (uncredited)) , Charles Oliver (KL Officer (uncredited)) , Allan Jeayes (KL Prisoner (uncredited)) , Albert Lieven (Paul – KL Guard (uncredited)) , Wally Patch (Fisherman (uncredited))
Directors: Carol Reed
Writers: Sidney Gilliat, Frank Launder, Gordon Wellesley
Tags: london, england, based on novel or book, inventor, munich, germany, concentration camp prisoner, prague, czech republic, secret agent, night train, war propaganda, nazi occupation, 1940s, eve of world war ii
The Sea Hawk
“The Sea Hawk” is a thrilling adventure film released in 1940, starring Errol Flynn, Brenda Marshall, and Claude Rains. Set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, it follows the daring pirate Geoffrey Thorpe as he loots Spanish ships for the English queen. Along the way, he captures the heart of Dona Maria, a beautiful Spanish royal. With a stellar cast and an exciting storyline, this movie is a must-watch for fans of swashbuckling action and romance.
Gaslight
“Gaslight” is a thrilling mystery set in a house where a murder took place two decades ago. When newlyweds Paul and Bella Mallen move in, a retired detective named B.G. Rough becomes suspicious of Paul, who bears a striking resemblance to one of the murder victim’s relatives. As Rough races against time to uncover the truth, he must prevent the killer from striking again and reclaiming their stolen bounty. Starring Adolf Wohlbrück, Diana Wynyard, and Frank Pettingell, this suspenseful film was released on June 25, 1940.
The Thief of Bagdad
“The Thief of Bagdad” is a captivating adventure film released in 1940. It tells the story of Prince Ahmad, who is banished from Bagdad by the wicked Jaffar and teams up with a resourceful thief named Abu to reclaim his throne and win the heart of a beautiful princess. With a talented cast including Conrad Veidt, Sabu, and June Duprez, this movie is a must-watch for fans of thrilling tales set in exotic lands.
Cast: Conrad Veidt (Jaffar) , Sabu (Abu) , June Duprez (Princess) , John Justin (Ahmad) , Rex Ingram (Djinn) , Miles Malleson (Sultan) , Morton Selten (The Old King) , Mary Morris (Halima) , Bruce Winston (The Merchant) , Hay Petrie (Astrologer) , Adelaide Hall (Singer) , Roy Emerton (Jailer) , Allan Jeayes (The Story Teller) , Chick Alexander (Bit Part (uncredited)) , Frederick Burtwell (Undetermined Role (uncredited)) , Joseph Cozier (Man Selling Fish (uncredited)) , Toni Gable (Lady (uncredited)) , Robert Greig (Man of Basra (uncredited)) , Henry Hallett (Citizen (uncredited)) , Miki Hood (Citizen (uncredited)) , Glynis Johns (Princess’s maid (uncredited)) , Alexander Laine (Urchin in Bagdad Market (uncredited)) , Cleo Laine (Urchin in Bagdad Market (uncredited)) , Sylvia Laine (Urchin in Bagdad Market (uncredited)) , Spoli Mills (Undetermined Role (uncredited))
Directors: Michael Powell, Ludwig Berger, Tim Whelan
Writers: Miklós Rózsa, Miles Malleson, Lajos Biró
Tags: giant spider, wretch, sultan, flying carpet, orient, thief, djinn, baghdad, technicolor, genie, arabian nights, magic lamp, turned into animal
The Mortal Storm
“The Mortal Storm” is a captivating movie set in a peaceful German village during the early 1930s. It follows the Roth family and their friend Martin Brietner as their lives are turned upside down when the Nazis rise to power. With an incredible cast including Margaret Sullavan, James Stewart, and Robert Young, this 1940 film takes you on an emotional journey through the turmoil and division faced by the characters during this tumultuous time in history.
The Mark of Zorro
“The Mark of Zorro” is a thrilling adventure set in 1820 California, where a nobleman’s son returns from Spain to find his homeland oppressed by a wicked dictatorship. In a clever dual role, he disguises himself as the dashing Zorro, fighting for justice and freedom. Starring Tyrone Power, Linda Darnell, and Basil Rathbone, this 1940 classic is a must-watch for fans of swashbuckling heroes and exhilarating escapades.
My Favorite Wife
“My Favorite Wife” is a delightful romantic comedy released in 1940. Starring Irene Dunne and Cary Grant, the film tells the story of Ellen Arden, who returns home after being presumed dead for seven years, only to find her husband has remarried. As the hilarious plot unfolds, we discover that Ellen spent those years stranded on a desert island with another man, leading to a series of unexpected and comical twists.
Foreign Correspondent
“Foreign Correspondent” is a thrilling movie set during the early stages of World War II. It follows Johnny Jones, an American crime reporter sent to Europe to uncover the truth behind a peace effort. As he digs deeper, he finds himself caught in the middle of an assassination and uncovers a dangerous spy ring. With a stellar cast including Joel McCrea and Laraine Day, this 1940 film is a captivating and suspenseful journey into the dark underbelly of Nazi Germany’s plans for European conquest.
Cast: Joel McCrea (John Jones) , Laraine Day (Carol Fisher) , Herbert Marshall (Stephen Fisher) , George Sanders (Scott Ffolliott) , Albert Bassermann (Van Meer) , Robert Benchley (Stebbins) , Edmund Gwenn (Rowley) , Eduardo Ciannelli (Mr. Krug) , Harry Davenport (Mr. Powers) , Martin Kosleck (Tramp) , Frances Carson (Mrs. Sprague) , Ian Wolfe (Stiles) , Charles Wagenheim (Assassin) , Eddie Conrad (Latvian) , Charles Halton (Bradley) , Barbara Pepper (Dorine) , Emory Parnell (‘Mohican’ Captain) , Roy Gordon (Mr. Brood) , Gertrude Hoffmann (Mrs. Benson) , Marten Lamont (Captain) , Barry Bernard (Steward) , Holmes Herbert (Asst. Commissioner) , Leonard Mudie (McKenna) , John Burton (English Announcer) , Samuel Adams (Van Meer’s Impersonator (uncredited))
Directors: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Charles Bennett, James Hilton, Joan Harrison, Robert Benchley
Tags: assassination, parent child relationship, chase, windmill, diplomat, conspiracy, reporter, crash, captive, bell tower, editor
The Westerner
“The Westerner” is a captivating 1940 movie starring Gary Cooper, Walter Brennan, and Doris Davenport. Set in the Wild West, it follows the story of drifter Cole Harden, who finds himself in trouble when accused of horse theft. To escape hanging, he cleverly claims to be a friend of the famous stage star Lillie Langtry, whom the obsessed Judge Roy Bean has never met. As tensions rise, Harden defends struggling homesteaders against the judge’s attempts to drive them away, leading to an intense showdown. Released on September 18, 1940, this film is a must-watch for fans of thrilling Western dramas.
Christmas in July
“Christmas in July” is a heartwarming comedy from 1940 that follows an office clerk who dreams of winning a fortune and marrying his true love. When his co-workers play a prank on him, pretending he won a $25,000 prize, hilarity ensues. Starring Dick Powell, Ellen Drew, and a talented ensemble cast, this feel-good film is a delightful watch for anyone in need of a good laugh.
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