All 45 John Garfield Movies (in Order)
Get ready for a thrilling journey through the silver screen as we delve into the world of John Garfield movies. Known for his captivating performances, Garfield’s filmography spans a wide range of genres, from drama to action-packed thrillers. In this article, we’ll be highlighting the most memorable and iconic films of this legendary actor, giving you a front-row seat to his timeless on-screen moments. Buckle up as we explore the extraordinary career of John Garfield and the movies that made him a true cinematic legend.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Four Daughters (1938)
Four Daughters”, released in 1938, is a drama, music, and romance film that follows the story of a musician who is blessed with four incredibly talented and musical daughters. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when a young, troubled composer enters their lives, resulting in both blessings and curses. Directed by Michael Curtiz, this film features a star-studded cast including Claude Rains, John Garfield, and Jeffrey Lynn.
2. Dust Be My Destiny (1939)
In 1939, Dust Be My Destiny is a gripping crime drama film that follows the life of Joe Bell, a man who served time for a burglary he didn’t commit. Despite being bitter, he finds love in the foreman’s daughter, Mabel, leading to a tragic chain of events. The movie explores the themes of love, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions.
3. They Made Me a Criminal (1939)
They Made Me a Criminal” is a riveting crime drama set in the harsh Arizona desert, where a champion boxer on the run is believed to have committed a shocking crime while under the influence. As the police search for him, the innocent athlete finds refuge at a rehabilitation farm for troubled youths. Here, he not only encounters the harsh realities of life but also discovers redemption and hope.
4. Daughters Courageous (1939)
Daughters Courageous” is a riveting 1939 drama-romance film that follows the trials and tribulations of single mother Nan Masters and her four marriageable daughters. When businessman Sam Sloane proposes marriage, Nan plans a lavish wedding, but her first husband, Jim, returns unexpectedly after being absent for 20 years.
5. Four Wives (1939)
Four Wives is a 1939 drama-romance film directed by Michael Curtiz and written by Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein, and Maurice Hanline. It stars Priscilla Lane, Rosemary Lane, and Lola Lane as the four Lemp sisters, musically inclined daughters of Adam Lemp, the Dean of the Briarwood Music Foundation. The movie follows the three sisters as they navigate their lives after marriage, with each facing unique struggles in their relationships.
6. Blackwell’s Island (1939)
In the captivating 1939 drama “Blackwell’s Island, “ a New York journalist takes a daring leap into the world of crime by infiltrating a notorious crime syndicate. How, you ask? . By befriending the boss himself, who is currently serving time on Blackwell Island.
7. Juarez (1939)
Juarez, “ a historical drama film released in 1939, is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and delves into the power struggle between France and Mexico. Louis Napoleon III (Claude Rains) takes advantage of the conflict to expand his empire by helping Emperor Maximilian von Habsburg (Brian Aherne) conquer Mexico. The focus of the film revolves around the complex interpersonal relationships and political alliances during this tumultuous era.
8. East of the River (1940)
East of the River” is a gripping tale of crime and drama set against the backdrop of New York City. Two young boys, one leading a life of trouble and the other embracing college, find themselves in love with the same girl. As they grow into men, the paths they choose lead to very different outcomes.
9. Flowing Gold (1940)
Flowing Gold (1940) is a thrilling adventure, drama, and romance flick that takes place in the heart of American oilfields. With a run time of just under an hour and twenty-one minutes, this classic film packs an emotional punch.
10. Saturday’s Children (1940)
Saturday’s Children” is a heartfelt drama-romance film that explores the complexities of love, marriage, and family dynamics. Set in 1940, the film follows the story of Bobby Halevy (John Garfield), a forthright and ambitious young woman, and Rims Rosson (Claude Rains), a man whose mind is always buzzing with one useless invention after another. After falling in love and getting married, Bobby and Rims must navigate the challenges and expectations that come with starting a new life together. As they face various hurdles, including Bobby’s desire to pursue her career aspirations and Rims’ struggle with his eccentric inventions, the couple discovers the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and the power of commitment.
11. Castle on the Hudson (1940)
Castle on the Hudson” is a gripping 1940 crime drama that tells the story of an arrogant mobster, played by John Garfield, who finds himself sentenced to a long prison term in Sing Sing. Despite his guilty verdict and dismal prospects, he receives a second chance at redemption when the fair and progressive warden takes him under his wing. As the story unfolds, the audience follows the protagonist’s transformation from a heartless criminal to a changed man, guided by the warden’s unwavering belief in his reform.
12. Out of the Fog (1941)
In the shadowed corners of Brooklyn, a ruthless gangster terrorizes boat-owners, extorting them under the guise of protection money. As the boat-owners grow tired of this oppressive regime, two courageous fishermen vow to take matters into their own hands. Instead of seeking the assistance of the police, they embark on a dangerous mission to eliminate the gangster.
13. Dangerously They Live (1941)
Dangerously They Live” is a 1941 drama war film directed by Robert Florey and featuring a star-studded cast including John Garfield, Nancy Coleman, and Raymond Massey. The movie follows an amnesiac patient, Jane Doe, who suffers from retrograde amnesia after a traffic accident in New York City.
14. The Sea Wolf (1941)
In “The Sea Wolf” (1941), directed by Michael Curtiz and written by Robert Rossen, a gripping tale of survival unfolds. Three fugitives, writer Humphrey van Weyden and escaped fugitive Ruth Brewster, are rescued by the brutal skipper of a seal-hunting schooner, Wolf Larsen.
15. Tortilla Flat (1942)
In the vibrant setting of Monterey, California, “Tortilla Flat” (1942) unfolds a heartwarming story of friendship and love amidst poverty. Danny, a humble Mexican-American, suddenly inherits two houses from his late grandfather. His luck takes a turn for the worse when he unwittingly becomes the target of his vagabond friends’ schemes, who take advantage of his newfound wealth.
16. The Fallen Sparrow (1943)
The Fallen Sparrow” is a suspenseful 1943 film-noir and mystery masterpiece that takes the audience on a thrilling journey, filled with intrigue and unexpected twists. Set in the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, the story follows the determined quest of American ex-prisoner, John McKittrick, played by John Garfield, to unveil the truth behind the murder of NYPD Lieutenant Louie Lepetino, a man who played a crucial role in John’s escape.
17. Destination Tokyo (1943)
Destination Tokyo” (1943) explores the intensity of camaraderie as a U. S. submarine crew covertly enters Tokyo Bay.
18. Thank Your Lucky Stars (1943)
Experience the magic of “Thank Your Lucky Stars, “ an iconic comedy-musical released in 1943. Set amidst the backdrop of World War II, two producers embark on a mission to create an unforgettable charity show with an all-star cast that includes the likes of Dennis Morgan, Humphrey Bogart, and Eddie Cantor. However, their plans take a detour when the egotistic radio personality Eddie Cantor throws a wrench in the works.
19. Air Force (1943)
Air Force, released in 1943, is a gripping action-drama film set against the backdrop of World War II. Directed by Howard Hawks, the story revolves around the crew of a U. S. Air Force bomber who arrive at Pearl Harbor following the devastating Japanese attack on December 7, 1941. With the United States now at war, the brave crew is sent on to Manila to strengthen the defense of the Philippines.
20. Hollywood Canteen (1944)
Hollywood Canteen” is a heartwarming and entertaining wartime tale from 1944. Set amid the backdrop of World War II, the movie follows two U. S. soldiers on leave who spend three nights at a club named “Hollywood Canteen” in Hollywood, California. Founded by the renowned Bette Davis and John Garfield, the club is a delightful refuge for servicemen heading overseas.
21. Between Two Worlds (1944)
In the thrilling film ‘Between Two Worlds’, released in 1944, we find ourselves on an ocean liner filled with passengers who are oblivious to their shared connection. As the journey unfolds, it becomes apparent that they all have a dark past and a secret to reveal. As the passengers navigate their way through their shared experiences, they must confront the mysterious figure of The Examiner, played by the enigmatic Sydney Greenstreet.
22. Pride of the Marines (1945)
Pride of the Marines” is a gripping drama from 1945, revolving around the life of Marine hero Al Schmid. After being blinded in battle, Schmid returns home to be rehabilitated, faced with the challenges of adjusting to his civilian life. With the support of his soon-to-be wife and a dedicated nurse, Schmid navigates the bitterness and disability of his new reality.
23. Humoresque (1946)
In the gritty streets of the 1940s, “Humoresque” tells the story of a classical musician, played by Oscar Levant, who strives to make a name for himself in the cutthroat world of music. His life takes a dramatic turn when he falls in love with the enchanting, yet manipulative socialite, played by Joan Crawford.
24. The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)
The Postman Always Rings Twice, “ a 1946 crime drama and film noir directed by Tay Garnett, revolves around an intricate plot of passion, infidelity, and murder. Lana Turner and John Garfield star as the protagonists — a married woman and a drifter who fall hopelessly in love amidst the backdrop of danger and deception.
25. Nobody Lives Forever (1946)
In “Nobody Lives Forever” (1946), Ex-GI Nick Blake finds himself ensnared in a web of deceit and corruption when he becomes part of a daring scheme to swindle a rich, young widow. Along the way, he discovers his true feelings for her, much to the chagrin of his ruthless and unscrupulous cohorts.
26. Body and Soul (1947)
In the gritty underworld of 1940s New York City, a promising young boxer named Charlie Davis is on his way to the top — that is, until an unscrupulous promoter takes a keen interest in him. “Body and Soul” (1947) is a gripping drama and film noir that follows Charlie as he navigates the treacherous waters of wealth, power, and corruption.
27. Gentleman’s Agreement (1947)
Gentleman’s Agreement is a powerful 1947 drama film directed by Elia Kazan and starring Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire, and John Garfield. Set in New York City, the story follows a journalist, played by Gregory Peck, who decides to pass himself off as Jewish in order to cover the deep-rooted issue of anti-Semitism. As he dives into a world of bigotry and hatred, he discovers firsthand the emotional and psychological effects of such prejudice.
28. Daisy Kenyon (1947)
Daisy Kenyon” is a captivating 1947 drama directed by Otto Preminger. This film revolves around the life of a commercial artist, who finds herself entangled in an affair with a married attorney, all while also navigating a budding connection with a returning soldier. As the tension between these two relationships mounts, Daisy must make a difficult choice between her current love and a new, unexpected connection.
29. Force of Evil (1948)
Force of Evil” is a captivating crime drama that explores the dark side of Wall Street in Manhattan, New York City. This gritty film noir, released in 1948, revolves around an unethical lawyer who has high hopes for his own success, but is lured into a dangerous partnership with a client involved in the numbers racket.
30. Anni difficili (1948)
Anni Difficili” is a 1948 Italian Neorealist film that tells the story of Aldo Piscitello, a minor government clerk who is forced to join the Fascist party in 1934. As the world plunges into World War Two, Aldo’s courage falters and his son Giovanni is sent into battle.
31. We Were Strangers (1949)
We Were Strangers, “ directed by esteemed filmmaker John Huston, takes us back to the 1930s, Cuba, where a gripping tale of revolution, intrigue, and betrayal unfolds. Featuring powerhouse performances from Jennifer Jones and John Garfield, the movie is a thrilling adventure that delves into the world of revolutionary politics, mercenaries, and high stakes.
32. Jigsaw (1949)
Jigsaw”, released in 1949, is a captivating crime-drama and film-noir that tells the story of New York Assistant District Attorney, Howard Malloy, as he navigates through a series of gruesome murders. Unearthing a dangerous extremist group, Malloy must piece together the puzzle to solve the case and bring the perpetrators to justice.
33. Under My Skin (1950)
In 1950, the gripping drama “Under My Skin” unfolds an intense tale of redemption and fatherhood. John Garfield plays Danny Butler, an expatriate jockey who finds himself on the run from angry gamblers. As he searches for a way to regain trust in his son’s belief in him as a champion, Danny gets tangled up in a web of deceit and high-stakes thrills.
34. The Breaking Point (1950)
The Breaking Point, released in 1950, is a gripping crime drama that takes us on a suspenseful journey through the life of a once-moral boat captain, played by John Garfield. With the pressures of financial strain, the captain finds himself drawn into a dangerous web of illegal activities to keep up with the costs of his charter boat in San Diego, California.
35. He Ran All the Way (1951)
He Ran All the Way is a gripping 1951 crime drama, directed by John Berry. The film stars John Garfield as Nick, a small-time crook who stages a payroll holdup alongside his partner Al. Their plan takes a dark turn when Al is shot in cold blood by Nick, and a policeman meets the same grim end.
36. Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage (1983)
Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage is a hilarious and captivating film from 1983, featuring a compilation of bloopers and unusual moments from multiple movies. Directed by Ron Blackman, Bruce Goldstein, and Stanley Sheff, and written by Bruce Goldstein, this unique documentary-comedy offers viewers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the world of filmmaking. The film stars Gig Young, Bud Abbott, and Walter Abel, who bring their comedic talents to the screen to create a memorable and entertaining experience.
37. Classic Comedy Teams (1986)
Classic Comedy Teams (1986) is a hilarious compilation of iconic slapstick comedy moments captured on screen by some of the greatest comedy teams in movie and television history. This one-hour-and-forty-eight-minute documentary, hosted by the multi-talented Steve Allen, brings together segments from popular classics like the East Side Kids, Abbott and Costello, Laurel and Hardy, The Marx Brothers, and the legendary Three Stooges, among others. The film celebrates the timeless appeal of laugh-out-loud comedies, taking viewers on a nostalgic trip through the history of comedy teams in their prime.
38. The Silver Screen: Color Me Lavender (1997)
The Silver Screen: Color Me Lavender” is a captivating documentary that dives into the history of Hollywood, unearthing the subliminal messages and hidden homosexual overtones that existed in the film industry during the golden age. Director Mark Rappaport takes us on a journey through time, shedding light on the films from the past that, despite their seemingly innocent appearances, have now been revealed to contain homosexual themes.
39. Hollywoodism: Jews, Movies and the American Dream (1998)
Hollywoodism: Jews, Movies, and the American Dream” is a riveting documentary that delves into the profound impact of Eastern European Jewish Emigre culture on Hollywood and the films produced during its golden age. Directed by Simcha Jacobovici and Stuart Samuels, this thought-provoking film explores the intertwined relationship between Hollywood’s movie moguls, filmmakers, and the American as well as Jewish cultural landscapes. Featuring interviews with prominent figures such as Neal Gabler, R. H.
40. Los Angeles Plays Itself (2003)
Los Angeles Plays Itself” is a fascinating documentary that explores the city of Los Angeles through its various cinematic portrayals. Directed by Thom Andersen and featuring interviews with urban theorists, architects, and film critics, the film delves into the urban setting of Hollywood, California, and how it has been influenced by popular culture and philosophy.
41. Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the Holocaust (2004)
Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the Holocaust” (2004) is a compelling documentary that delves into the history of the Hollywood film industry’s relationship with the Nazis and its portrayal of the Holocaust. This thought-provoking movie provides a unique perspective on the role of Hollywood during what is perhaps one of the darkest periods in human history.
42. Hollywood contra Franco (2008)
In 2008, director Oriol Porta released the documentary “Hollywood contra Franco, “ which delves into the profound impact of the Spanish Civil War on American artists. The film’s focus is on the life of influential screenwriter Alvah Bessie, who was deeply affected by the war’s outcome.
43. Cinema’s Exiles: From Hitler to Hollywood (2009)
Cinema’s Exiles: From Hitler to Hollywood” is a captivating documentary that delves into the lives of the talented German filmmakers who fled the oppressive Nazi regime in the 1930s. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant Berlin film industry of the 1920s, the film provides an intriguing look at the challenges and triumphs faced by a group of professionals striving for success in a foreign country.
44. Final Cut: Ladies and Gentlemen (2012)
Final Cut: Ladies and Gentlemen” is a heartwarming and unique blend of comedy, drama, and romance. This 2012 film was masterfully directed by György Pálfi and written by Pálfi and Zsófia Ruttkay. The movie tells a simple yet timeless love story between a man and a woman, brought to life through a series of scenes edited together from hundreds of classic films, creating a delightful crossover of movie genres.
45. Hollywood, la vie rêvée de Lana Turner (2019)
Dive into the glamorous world of Lana Turner in this captivating documentary, “Hollywood, la vie rêvée de Lana Turner. “ From humble beginnings to her iconic role as a Hollywood starlet, experience the life of Julia Jean Turner as she transforms into the legendary Lana Turner. Featuring never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews, this documentary showcases the rise and fall of Turner’s illustrious career.