Top 20 Fan-Favorite Movies of 1944: A Nostalgic Cinematic Journey!

Roll out the red carpet and dust off your vintage popcorn machine, because we’re about to take a nostalgic journey back to 1944 – a golden year in the world of cinema. This was a time when the silver screen was filled with dashing heroes, captivating heroines, and stories that could make even the toughest critic shed a tear. So, grab your ticket and take your seat, as we count down the top 20 fan-favorite movies of 1944. From heart-wrenching dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, these films have stood the test of time, continuing to captivate audiences with their timeless charm. So, whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a good old-fashioned movie night, this list is sure to have something for you. Lights, camera, action – let’s dive into the cinematic treasures of 1944!
Double Indemnity

Double Indemnity

Release Date: 1944-06-14

Genres: Crime, Thriller

“Double Indemnity” is a thrilling film from 1944 that revolves around a wealthy woman and a cunning insurance agent who conspire to murder her unsuspecting husband. Set against the backdrop of picturesque California, the duo meticulously plans the perfect crime to cash in on a double insurance payout. Starring Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, and Edward G. Robinson, this classic movie is filled with suspense, twists, and a gripping storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Fred MacMurray (Walter Neff) , Barbara Stanwyck (Phyllis Dietrichson) , Edward G. Robinson (Barton Keyes) , Porter Hall (Mr. Jackson) , Richard Gaines (Edward S. Norton Jr.) , Jean Heather (Lola Dietrichson) , Tom Powers (Mr. Dietrichson) , Fortunio Bonanova (Sam Garlopis) , Byron Barr (Nino Zachetti) , John Berry (Bit Part (uncredited)) , Raymond Chandler (Man Reading Book (uncredited)) , Edmund Cobb (Train Conductor (uncredited)) , Kernan Cripps (Conductor (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Norton’s Secretary) , Eddie Hall (Man in Drug Store (uncredited)) , Teala Loring (Pacific All-Risk Telephone Operator (uncredited)) , Sam McDaniel (Charlie the Garage Attendant (uncredited)) , Billy Mitchell (Pullman Porter (uncredited)) , Clarence Muse (Man (uncredited)) , Douglas Spencer (Lou Schwartz (uncredited)) , John Philliber (Joe Peters) , Harold Garrison (Redcap) , James Adamson (Pullman Porter (uncredited)) , Betty Farrington (Dietrichsons’ Maid Nettie (uncredited)) , George Magrill (Man (uncredited))

Directors: Billy Wilder

Writers: Billy Wilder, Raymond Chandler, James M. Cain

Tags: insurance fraud, femme fatale, film noir, murder, life insurance, black and white, insurance agent, insurance policy, murder plot, scheming wife

Laura

Laura

Release Date: 1944-10-11

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“Laura” is a captivating film from 1944 that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted Movies of that year. Set in a thrilling detective story, the movie tells the tale of a police detective who unexpectedly falls in love with the woman he is investigating for her murder. With a stellar cast including Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews, and Clifton Webb, “Laura” is a must-watch classic that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Gene Tierney (Laura Hunt) , Dana Andrews (Det. Lt. Mark McPherson) , Clifton Webb (Waldo Lydecker) , Vincent Price (Shelby Carpenter) , Judith Anderson (Ann Treadwell) , Dorothy Adams (Laura’s Maid Bessie Clary (uncredited)) , Wally Albright (Newsboy (uncredited)) , Bobby Barber (Newsboy (uncredited)) , Harry Carter (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Lane Chandler (Detective (uncredited)) , Dorothy Christy (Woman (uncredited)) , James Conaty (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Ralph Dunn (Fred Callahan (uncredited)) , Jean Fenwick (Woman (uncredited)) , Clyde Fillmore (Owner of Bullitt & Co. Ad Agency (uncredited)) , James Flavin (Det. McEveety (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Restaurant Patron (uncredited)) , Lee Tung Foo (Waldo’s Servant (uncredited)) , William Forrest (Important Client (uncredited)) , Frances Gladwin (Woman (uncredited)) , William Graeff Jr. (Newsboy (uncredited)) , Beatrice Gray (Woman (uncredited)) , Sam Harris (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Kathleen Howard (Ann’s Cook Louise (uncredited)) , Yolanda Lacca (Woman (uncredited))

Directors: Otto Preminger

Writers: Ring Lardner, Jr., Vera Caspary, Samuel Hoffenstein, Jay Dratler, Elizabeth Reinhardt

Tags: detective, jealousy, shotgun, obsession, investigation, advertising expert, film noir, murder, romance, mistaken identity, whodunit, black and white, investigator, intrigue, portrait, police investigation, murder mystery, murder suspect, 1940s, other woman, suspense

Arsenic and Old Lace

Arsenic and Old Lace

Release Date: 1944-09-01

Genres: Comedy, Crime

“Arsenic and Old Lace” is a hilarious and thrilling movie from 1944 that follows Mortimer Brewster, a critic and writer who unexpectedly falls in love and gets married. However, his joyous news takes a dark turn when he discovers that his two sweet maiden aunts have a rather sinister hobby of murdering lonely old men and hiding their bodies in the cellar. Starring Cary Grant, Priscilla Lane, and a talented ensemble cast, this classic film is sure to keep you entertained with its mix of comedy and suspense.

Cast: Cary Grant (Mortimer Brewster) , Priscilla Lane (Elaine Harper Brewster) , Raymond Massey (Jonathan Brewster) , Jack Carson (Officer Patrick O’Hara) , Edward Everett Horton (Mr. Witherspoon) , Peter Lorre (Dr. Einstein) , James Gleason (Lt. Rooney) , Josephine Hull (Aunt Abby Brewster) , Jean Adair (Aunt Martha Brewster) , John Alexander (‘Teddy Roosevelt’ Brewster) , Grant Mitchell (Reverend Harper) , Edward McNamara (Sergeant Brophy) , Garry Owen (Taxi Cab Driver) , John Ridgely (Officer Saunders) , Vaughan Glaser (Judge Cullman) , Chester Clute (Dr. Gilchrist) , Charles Lane (Reporter at Marriage License Office) , Edward McWade (Gibbs) , Hank Mann (Photographer at Marriage License Office (uncredited)) , Spencer Charters (Marriage License Clerk) , Sol Gorss (New York Pitcher (uncredited)) , Lee Phelps (Umpire (uncredited)) , Raymond Walburn (Drummer at baseball game (uncredited)) , Spec O’Donnell (Young Man in Line (uncredited)) , Leo White (Man in Phone Booth (uncredited))

Directors: Frank Capra

Writers: Joseph Kesselring, Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein

Tags: poison, cemetery, cellar, halloween, marriage, insanity, murder, serial killer, writer, corpse, critic

The Children Are Watching Us

The Children Are Watching Us

Release Date: 1944-10-27

Genres: Drama

“The Children Are Watching Us” is a captivating Italian film from 1944 that explores the devastating impact of adult mistakes on an innocent child. Directed by Vittorio De Sica and written by Cesare Zavattini, this movie marks the beginning of their renowned collaboration in Italian neorealism. With a talented cast including Emilio Cigoli and Isa Pola, it offers a deeply humane portrayal of a family’s unraveling, making it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema.

Cast: Emilio Cigoli (Andrea) , Isa Pola (Nina) , Luciano De Ambrosis (Pricò) , Ernesto Calindri (Claudio) , Giovanna Cigoli (Agnese) , Tecla Scarano (Signora Resta) , Adriano Rimoldi (Roberto, l’amante di Nina) , Dina Perbellini (la zia) , Jone Frigerio (la nonna) , Maria Gardena (la signora Uberti) , Nicoletta Parodi (Giuliana) , Marcello Mastroianni ((uncredited))

Directors: Vittorio De Sica

Writers: Vittorio De Sica, Cesare Zavattini, Cesare Giulio Viola, Adolfo Franci, Margherita Maglione, Gherardo Gherardi

Tags: innocence

Ossessione

Ossessione

Release Date: 1944-04-08

Genres: Crime, Drama, Romance

“Ossessione” is a captivating movie released in 1944 that tells the story of Gino, a wandering man who finds himself entangled in a passionate affair with Giovanna, the owner of an inn. As their relationship intensifies, they hatch a plan to get rid of Giovanna’s older husband. Starring Clara Calamai and Massimo Girotti, this film explores themes of desire, betrayal, and the consequences of forbidden love.”

Cast: Clara Calamai (Giovanna Bragana) , Massimo Girotti (Gino Costa) , Dhia Cristiani (Anita) , Elio Marcuzzo (The Spaniard) , Vittorio Duse (Police Officer) , Michele Riccardini (Don Remigio) , Juan de Landa (Giuseppe Bragana) , Michele Sakara (Il Bambino (uncredited))

Directors: Luchino Visconti

Writers: Alberto Moravia, James M. Cain, Luchino Visconti, Giuseppe De Santis, Mario Alicata, Antonio Pietrangeli, Gianni Puccini

Tags: italy, adultery, based on novel or book, italian, country house, milieu, province, country life, disorientation, holdings, murder, mechanic, drifter, older husband, neo realism, italian neo realism

Gaslight

Gaslight

Release Date: 1944-05-04

Genres: Thriller, Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Gaslight” is a captivating psychological thriller released in 1944. Starring Charles Boyer, Ingrid Bergman, and Joseph Cotten, the movie follows a newlywed who becomes increasingly convinced that she is losing her mind as strange occurrences unfold in her family’s mansion. With a stellar cast and a gripping storyline, this film is definitely worth checking out among the best voted movies of 1944.

Cast: Charles Boyer (Gregory Anton) , Ingrid Bergman (Paula Alquist) , Joseph Cotten (Brian Cameron) , May Whitty (Bessie Thwaites) , Angela Lansbury (Nancy Oliver) , Barbara Everest (Elizabeth Tompkins) , Emil Rameau (Maestro Guardi) , Edmund Breon (General Huddleston) , Halliwell Hobbes (Mr. Muffin) , Tom Stevenson (Williams) , Heather Thatcher (Lady Mildred Dalroy) , Lawrence Grossmith (Lord Dalroy) , Jakob Gimpel (Pianist) , Jack Kirk (Cab Driver (uncredited)) , Lillian Bronson (Lady (uncredited)) , Leonard Carey (Guide (uncredited)) , Alec Craig (Turnkey (uncredited)) , Helen Flint (Franchette (uncredited)) , Gibson Gowland (Servant (uncredited)) , Gary Gray (Boy in Park with Nanny (uncredited)) , Terry Moore (Paula Alquist, age 14 (uncredited)) , Syd Saylor (Baggage Clerk (uncredited)) , Morgan Wallace (Fred Garrett (uncredited)) , Maude Fealy (Bit Part (uncredited)) , Frank Baker (Pedestrian (uncredited))

Directors: George Cukor

Writers: John L. Balderston, Walter Reisch, Patrick Hamilton, John Van Druten

Tags: scotland yard, manipulation, victorian england, psychological abuse, murder, psychological thriller, nervous breakdown, driven mad, gaslight, emotional abuse, gaslighting

The Woman in the Window

The Woman in the Window

Release Date: 1944-10-25

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Mystery, Crime

“The Woman in the Window” is a captivating movie released in 1944 that tells the story of an innocent professor who finds himself entangled in a murder mystery after being seduced by a mysterious woman. Starring Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, and Raymond Massey, this film is a thrilling and suspenseful ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Edward G. Robinson (Professor Richard Wanley) , Joan Bennett (Alice Reed) , Raymond Massey (Dist. Attorney Frank Lalor) , Edmund Breon (Dr. Michael Barkstane) , Dan Duryea (Heidt / Tim, the Doorman) , Thomas E. Jackson (Inspector Jackson) , Dorothy Peterson (Mrs. Wanley) , Arthur Loft (Claude Mazard / Frank Howard / Charlie the Hatcheck Man) , Frank Dawson (Collins, the Steward) , Robert Blake (Dickie Wanley (uncredited)) , Frances Morris (Stenographer (uncredited)) , Iris Adrian (Streetwalker (uncredited)) , Brandon Beach (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Paul Bradley (Man at Club (uncredited)) , James Carlisle (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Fred Hueston (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Sheldon Jett (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Jack W. Johnston (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Charles Meakin (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Harold Minjir (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Wedgwood Nowell (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Louis Payne (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Scott Seaton (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Wyndham Standing (Man at Club (uncredited)) , Larry Steers (Man at Club (uncredited))

Directors: Fritz Lang

Writers: Nunnally Johnson, J.H. Wallis

Tags: scissors, dream, professor, window, college, painting, film noir, barbed wire, clue, district attorney

Ivan the Terrible, Part I

Ivan the Terrible, Part I

Release Date: 1944-11-11

Genres: Drama, History

“Ivan the Terrible, Part I” is a captivating historical drama set in Russia during the early reign of Tsar Ivan IV. The film follows Ivan’s struggle to unite his people while facing betrayal from the aristocracy and even his closest friends. Directed by Sergei Eisenstein, this first part of a three-part biopic showcases his unique filmmaking style, although the project was never completed due to production issues. Starring Nikolai Cherkasov and Lyudmila Tselikovskaya, this movie offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of Russia’s most iconic rulers. Released in 1944, it was among the best-voted movies of that year.

Cast: Nikolai Cherkasov (Czar Ivan IV) , Lyudmila Tselikovskaya (Czarina Anastasia Romanovna) , Serafima Birman (Boyarina Efrosinia Staritskaya) , Mikhail Nazvanov (Prince Andrei Kurbsky) , Mikhail Zharov (Czar’s Guard Malyuta Skuratov) , Amvrosi Buchma (Czar’s Guard Aleksei Basmanov) , Mikhail Kuznetsov (Fyodor Basmanov) , Pavel Kadochnikov (Vladimir Andreyevich Staritsky) , Andrei Abrikosov (Boyar Fyodor Kolychev) , Alexander Mgebrov (Novgorod’s Archbishop Pimen) , Maxim Mikhaylov (Archdeacon) , Vladimir Balashov (Piotr Volynetz) , Vsevolod Pudovkin (Nikola, Simpleton Beggar) , Semyon Timoshenko (Kaspar von Oldenbock, Livonian Ambassador) , Aleksandr Rumnyov (The Stranger) , Pavel Massalsky (Sigismond, King of Poland) , Valentina Kuznetsova (Smiling Woman in the Church (uncredited)) , Sergei Stolyarov ((uncredited))

Directors: Sergei Eisenstein

Writers: Sergei Eisenstein

Tags: coronation, exile, tatars, treason, wedding, church, intrigue, medieval

Lifeboat

Lifeboat

Release Date: 1944-01-28

Genres: War, Drama

“Lifeboat” is a gripping World War II drama that takes place entirely on a lifeboat. After their ship is attacked by a German U-boat, a diverse group of survivors must navigate the challenges of being stranded at sea together. With a talented cast including Tallulah Bankhead and William Bendix, this intense and suspenseful film will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Cast: Tallulah Bankhead (Connie Porter) , William Bendix (Gus) , Walter Slezak (Willy) , Mary Anderson (Alice MacKenzie) , John Hodiak (Kovac) , Henry Hull (Rittenhouse) , Heather Angel (Mrs.Higley) , Hume Cronyn (Sparks) , Canada Lee (Joe) , William Yetter Jr. (Young German Sailor (uncredited))

Directors: Alfred Hitchcock

Writers: John Steinbeck, Jo Swerling

Tags: submarine, sea, journalist, boat, world war ii, black and white, lifeboat, steward, radio operator

Murder, My Sweet

Murder, My Sweet

Release Date: 1944-12-14

Genres: Mystery, Drama

“Murder, My Sweet” is a captivating film released on December 14, 1944. Starring Dick Powell, Claire Trevor, and Anne Shirley, it follows the story of Philip Marlowe, a detective hired to track down an ex-con’s former girlfriend. As Marlowe delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a complex web of mystery and deceit, making for an intriguing and suspenseful watch.

Cast: Dick Powell (Philip Marlowe) , Claire Trevor (Helen Grayle) , Anne Shirley (Ann Grayle) , Otto Kruger (Jules Amthor) , Mike Mazurki (Joe “Moose” Malloy) , Miles Mander (Leuwen Grayle) , Douglas Walton (Lindsay Marriott) , Donald Douglas (Police Lt. Randall) , Ralf Harolde (Dr. Sonderborg) , Esther Howard (Jesse Florian) , Ernie Adams (Bartender at “Florian’s” (uncredited)) , George Anderson (Detective (uncredited)) , Edward Biby (Club Patron (uncredited)) , Jack Carr (Dr. Sonderborg’s Assistant (uncredited)) , Tom Coleman (Police Clerk (uncredited)) , Ralph Dunn (Detective (uncredited)) , Sam Finn (Headwaiter (uncredited)) , Rudy Germane (Club Patron (uncredited)) , Fred Graham (Man (uncredited)) , Bill Hamilton (Man (uncredited)) , Paul Hilton (Boy Getting Laundry (uncredited)) , John Indrisano (Amthor’s Chauffeur (uncredited)) , Daun Kennedy (Girl in Bar (uncredited)) , Donald Kerr (Taxi Driver (uncredited)) , King Lockwood (Club Patron (uncredited))

Directors: Edward Dmytryk

Writers: Raymond Chandler, John Paxton, Leslie Urbach

Tags: detective, lover (female), femme fatale, film noir, hallucinogenic drug, los angeles, california, beach house, private detective, sedation, search for truth, unfaithful wife, tiki culture

At Land

At Land

Release Date: 1944-01-01

Genres: Mystery, Fantasy

“At Land” is a captivating and surreal movie from 1944 that takes you on a mesmerizing journey. The film follows a woman who finds herself in various unexpected situations, from climbing a dinner table filled with oblivious guests to witnessing a chess game with pieces that move on their own. With a talented cast including Maya Deren and John Cage, this thought-provoking film will leave you intrigued and lost in its dreamlike narrative.

Cast: Maya Deren () , John Cage () , Parker Tyler () , Alexander Hammid () , Hella Heyman ()

Directors: Maya Deren

Writers: Maya Deren

Tags: symbolism, feminism, avant-garde, woman director, short film

The Punch Bowl

The Punch Bowl

Release Date: 1944-01-28

Genres: Comedy

“The Punch Bowl” is a captivating German film from 1944 that has gained a cult following. Directed by Helmut Weiss and starring Heinz Rühmann, Karin Himboldt, and Hilde Sessak, the movie follows the story of a writer named Johannes Pfeiffer who decides to experience high school life by going undercover as a student. This hilarious and heartwarming film explores the adventures and misadventures of Pfeiffer as he discovers the joys and challenges of a traditional school setting.

Cast: Heinz Rühmann (Dr. Johannes Pfeiffer/Hans Pfeiffer) , Karin Himboldt (Eva Knauer) , Hilde Sessak (Marion) , Erich Ponto (Professor Crey, genannt Schnauz) , Paul Henckels (Professor Bömmel) , Hans Leibelt (Gymnasialdirektor Knauer, genannt Zeus) , Lutz Götz (Oberlehrer Dr. Brett) , Hans Richter (Rosen) , Clemens Hasse (Rudi Knebel) , Rudi Schippel (Streber Luck) , Georg-Michael Wagner (Ackermann) , Hedwig Wangel (Haushälterin bei Crey) , Anneliese Würtz (Witwe Windscheidt) , Margarete Schön (Frau Direktor Knauer) , Max Gülstorff (Herr Oberschulrat) , Egon Vogel (Musiklehrer Fridolin) , Ewald Wenck (Kastellan Kliemke) , Albert Florath (Mitglied der Bowlenrunde) , Karl Etlinger (Mitglied der Bowlenrunde) , Georg H. Schnell (Mitglied der Bowlenrunde) , Georg Vogelsang (Mitglied der Bowlenrunde)

Directors: Helmut Weiss

Writers: Heinrich Spoerl

Tags: graduation, punch

The Thin Man Goes Home

The Thin Man Goes Home

Release Date: 1944-12-24

Genres: Comedy, Mystery

“The Thin Man Goes Home” is a classic detective movie released on December 24, 1944. Starring William Powell and Myrna Loy, the film follows detective Nick Charles as he unintentionally becomes involved in a murder investigation while visiting his parents. With a stellar cast and an intriguing plot, this movie is definitely one of the best voted films of 1944.

Cast: William Powell (Nick Charles) , Myrna Loy (Nora Charles) , Lucile Watson (Mrs. Marta Charles) , Gloria DeHaven (Laura Belle Ronson) , Anne Revere (Crazy Mary) , Helen Vinson (Helena Draque) , Harry Davenport (Dr. Bertram Charles) , Leon Ames (Edgar Draque) , Donald Meek (Willie Crump) , Edward Brophy (Brogan) , Lloyd Corrigan (Dr. Bruce Clayworth) , Anita Sharp-Bolster (Hilda) , Ralph Brooke (Peter Berton) , Donald MacBride (Police Chief MacGregor) , Morris Ankrum (Willoughby Peavy) , Nora Cecil (Miss Peavy) , Minor Watson (Sam Ronson) , Irving Bacon (Tom) , Virginia Sale (Tom’s Wife) , Asta Jr. (Asta)

Directors: Richard Thorpe

Writers: Dashiell Hammett, Harry Kurnitz, Robert Riskin, Dwight Taylor

Tags: black and white, thin man

Torment

Torment

Release Date: 1944-10-02

Genres: Drama

“Torment” is a gripping 1944 movie that tells the story of Jan-Erik Widgren, a young boy who falls for Bertha Olsson, a troubled woman battling alcoholism. Despite Bertha’s involvement with the heartless teacher Caligula, Jan-Erik embarks on a relationship with her. As their forbidden love affair unfolds, Caligula’s psychological torment takes a toll on both Jan-Erik and Bertha, leading to a tragic turn of events. Stig Järrel, Alf Kjellin, and Mai Zetterling deliver powerful performances in this emotionally charged film released on October 2, 1944.

Cast: Stig Järrel (Caligula) , Alf Kjellin (Jan-Erik Widgren) , Mai Zetterling (Bertha Olsson) , Olof Winnerstrand (Headmaster) , Gösta Cederlund (Pippi) , Hugo Björne (Dr. Nilsson) , Olav Riégo (Mr. Widgren) , Märta Arbin (Mrs. Widgren) , Jan Molander (Pettersson) , Gunnar Björnstrand (Teacher) , Birger Malmsten (Kreutz, student) , Stig Olin (Sandman, student) , Richard Lund (Teacher (uncredited))

Directors: Alf Sjöberg

Writers: Ingmar Bergman

Tags: teacher, school teacher, strict teacher, torment, schoolmaster, schoolboy, latin teacher

Phantom Lady

Phantom Lady

Release Date: 1944-01-28

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller

“Phantom Lady” is a thrilling mystery movie released in 1944. Starring Franchot Tone, Ella Raines, and Alan Curtis, it follows the story of a murder suspect who relies on a mysterious woman to prove his innocence after his wife’s death. With a gripping plot and a talented cast, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of 1944.

Cast: Franchot Tone (John ‘Jack’ Marlow) , Ella Raines (Carol ‘Kansas’ Richman) , Alan Curtis (Scott Henderson) , Aurora Miranda (Estela Monteiro) , Thomas Gomez (Inspector Burgess) , Fay Helm (Ann Terry) , Elisha Cook Jr. (Cliff Milburn) , Andrew Tombes (Mac – Bartender) , Regis Toomey (Detective) , Joseph Crehan (Detective) , Doris Lloyd (Madame Kettisha) , Virginia Brissac (Dr. Helen Chase) , Milburn Stone (District Attorney (voice) (uncredited)) , Samuel S. Hinds (Judge (voice) (uncredited)) , Harry Cording (Courtroom Spectator Next to Carol (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Courtroom Spectator (uncredited)) , Cyril Ring (Barfly with Racing Form (uncredited)) , Cyril Delevanti (Claude (uncredited)) , Harry Adams (Courtroom Spectator (uncredited)) , Robert Bain (Guitarist (uncredited)) , Joan Bayley (Dancer (uncredited)) , Brandon Beach (Theatre Party Guest (uncredited)) , Brooks Benedict (Theatre Party Guest (uncredited)) , John Berkes (Man with Poodle (uncredited)) , Barney Bigard (Jive Club Clarinetist (uncredited))

Directors: Robert Siodmak

Writers: Cornell Woolrich, Bernard C. Schoenfeld

Tags: falsely accused, film noir

The Pearl of Death

The Pearl of Death

Release Date: 1944-08-01

Genres: Mystery, Crime, Thriller

“The Pearl of Death” is a thrilling mystery film released in 1944, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce as the iconic duo Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. The story revolves around the infamous Borgia Pearl, a cursed gem that brings murder and misfortune to its owners. When the jewel is stolen in London, Holmes must solve the case and stop a series of gruesome murders, where victims are found with their spines snapped and surrounded by shattered china. With a talented cast and a gripping plot, this movie is a must-watch for fans of classic detective stories.

Cast: Basil Rathbone (Sherlock Holmes) , Nigel Bruce (Dr. John Watson) , Dennis Hoey (Inspector Lestrade) , Evelyn Ankers (Naomi Drake) , Miles Mander (Giles Conover) , Ian Wolfe (Amos Hodder) , Charles Francis (Francis Digby, curator) , Holmes Herbert (James Goodram, courier) , Richard Aherne (Museum Guard Bates) , Mary Gordon (Mrs. Hudson) , Rondo Hatton (The Hoxton Creeper) , Harry Cording (George Gelder (uncredited)) , Billy Bevan (Constable With Food Tray (uncredited)) , Leyland Hodgson (Customs Officer (uncredited)) , Eric Wilton (Chauffeur (uncredited)) , Lillian Bronson (Maj. Harker’s Housekeeper (uncredited))

Directors: Roy William Neill

Writers: Arthur Conan Doyle, Bertram Millhauser

Tags: museum, ocean liner, murder, black and white, series of murders, art gallery, private detective, dover, acromegalic actor, stolen jewel, sherlock holmes

The Scarlet Claw

The Scarlet Claw

Release Date: 1944-05-18

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller

“The Scarlet Claw” is a thrilling mystery movie released in 1944. Set in a small village, the locals believe a supernatural creature is responsible for a woman’s gruesome murder. However, Sherlock Holmes, who becomes involved in the case, suspects that the true culprit is a human murderer. Starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, this suspenseful film will keep you on the edge of your seat as Holmes unravels the truth behind the terrifying crime.

Cast: Basil Rathbone (Sherlock Holmes) , Nigel Bruce (Doctor Watson) , Gerald Hamer (Potts / Tanner / Ramson) , Paul Cavanagh (Lord Penrose) , Arthur Hohl (Emile Journet) , Miles Mander (Judge Brisson) , Kay Harding (Marie Journet) , David Clyde (Police Sergeant Thompson) , Ian Wolfe (Drake) , Victoria Horne (Nora) , Al Ferguson (Attendant (uncredited)) , Olaf Hytten (Hotel Day Desk Clerk (uncredited))

Directors: Roy William Neill

Writers: Roy William Neill, Arthur Conan Doyle, Edmund L. Hartmann, Paul Gangelin, Brenda Weisberg

Tags: black and white, murder investigation, sherlock holmes

Ministry of Fear

Ministry of Fear

Release Date: 1944-05-19

Genres: Mystery, Thriller

“Ministry of Fear” is a thrilling movie set in World War II England, following the story of Stephen Neale, who is released from an asylum after two years. As he tries to reintegrate into society, he unwittingly stumbles upon a dangerous spy ring. With a stellar cast including Ray Milland and Marjorie Reynolds, this suspenseful film will keep you on the edge of your seat. Released on May 19, 1944, it’s definitely one of the best movies of that year!

Cast: Ray Milland (Stephen Neale) , Marjorie Reynolds (Carla Hilfe) , Carl Esmond (Willi Hilfe) , Hillary Brooke (Mrs. Bellane #2, spiritualist) , Percy Waram (Inspector Prentice) , Dan Duryea (Cost aka Travers the tailor) , Alan Napier (Dr. Forrester) , Erskine Sanford (George Rennit, private investigator) , Harry Allen (Tailor’s Delivery Man (uncredited)) , Frank Baker (Scotland Yard Man (uncredited)) , Vangie Beilby (Old Lady at Charity Bazaar (uncredited)) , Evelyn Beresford (Fat Lady at Charity Bazaar (uncredited)) , Aminta Dyne (Mrs. Bellane #1 – fortune teller (uncredited)) , Byron Foulger (Mr. Newby (uncredited)) , Colin Kenny (Scotland Yard Man (uncredited)) , Connie Leon (lady Purchaser of Cake (uncredited)) , Ottola Nesmith (Woman at Admission Gate (uncredited))

Directors: Fritz Lang

Writers: Graham Greene, Seton I. Miller

Tags: spy, film noir, black and white, nazi spy, mental asylum

The Uninvited

The Uninvited

Release Date: 1944-02-18

Genres: Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, Romance

“The Uninvited” is a captivating 1944 movie set on the Cornwellian coast. It follows a brother and sister who move into an old seaside house, only to discover that it’s haunted by the ghost of their neighbor’s granddaughter’s mother. As the brother falls in love with the granddaughter, they must navigate the eerie presence and unravel the mysteries of the house. Starring Ray Milland, Ruth Hussey, and Gail Russell, this haunting tale is a must-watch for fans of supernatural stories.

Cast: Ray Milland (Roderick Fitzgerald) , Ruth Hussey (Pamela Fitzgerald) , Gail Russell (Stella Meredith) , Donald Crisp (Commander Beech) , Alan Napier (Dr. Scott) , Cornelia Otis Skinner (Miss Holloway) , Barbara Everest (Lizzie Flynn) , Dorothy Stickney (Miss Bird) , Queenie Leonard (Mrs. Taylor) , Rita Page (Annie) , Holmes Herbert (Charlie Jessup) , Moyna MacGill (Miss Coatsworthy)

Directors: Lewis Allen

Writers: Frank Partos, Dodie Smith, Dorothy Macardle

Tags: sibling relationship, sunrise, based on novel or book, cat, cliff, haunted house, family secrets, cornwall, england, lesbian relationship, apparition, trance, crying, doctor, spirit, dog, old dark house, housekeeper, gothic, madness, vengeful ghost, old house, ghost, séance, brother sister relationship, night, grandfather granddaughter relationship, suspense

A Canterbury Tale

A Canterbury Tale

Release Date: 1944-08-21

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Mystery, War

“A Canterbury Tale” is a captivating movie released in 1944 that follows three modern-day pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury. Starring Eric Portman, Sheila Sim, Dennis Price, and other talented actors, the film takes a thrilling turn when the trio finds themselves investigating a peculiar crime in a small town along the way. With its intriguing storyline and talented cast, this movie is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of classic films from the 1940s.

Cast: Eric Portman (Thomas Colpeper, JP) , Sheila Sim (Alison Smith) , Dennis Price (Peter Gibbs) , John Sweet (Bob Johnson) , Charles Hawtrey (Thomas Duckett) , Esmond Knight (Narrator / Seven-Sisters Soldier / Village Idiot) , Hay Petrie (Woodcock) , George Merritt (Ned Horton) , Edward Rigby (Jim Horton) , Freda Jackson (Prudence Honeywood) , Betty Jardine (Fee Baker) , Eliot Makeham (Organist) , Parry Jones Jr. (Arthur) , Beresford Egan (P. C. Ovenden) , Esma Cannon (Agnes) , Anthony Holles (Sergt. Bassett) , Maude Lambert (Miss Grainger) , Wallace Bosco (A. R. P. Worker) , Charles Paton (Ernie Brooks) , Jane Millican (Susanna Foster) , John Slater (Sergt. Len) , Michael Golden (Sergt. Smale) , Graham Moffatt (Sergt. Stuffy) , Judith Furse (Dorothy Bird) , Barbara Waring (Polly Finn)

Directors: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell

Writers: Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell

Tags: england, world war ii, rural area, wartime, railroad, canterbury, home front

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