The Best Movies With Edward G. Robinson
- 1Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, Edward G. Robinson
In this iconic film noir, a master insurance salesman and a cunning femme fatale devise an elaborate scheme to commit the perfect murder and cash in on a large insurance policy. Their meticulous planning quickly begins to unravel, however, as the tenacious investigator, played by Edward G. Robinson, smells a rat and follows a trail of clues that threaten to expose their deception. This gripping tale of seduction, greed, and betrayal showcases Robinson's uncanny ability to portray sharp-witted, complex characters who capture the audience's attention and admiration.
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2Humphrey Bogart, Edward G. Robinson, Lauren BacallSet against the backdrop of a stormy Florida coast, this crime thriller revolves around a group of diverse individuals who find themselves trapped within a hotel as outside forces, both natural and criminal, close in on them. Robinson takes center stage as a ruthless gangster, Johnny Rocco, who seizes control of the situation, pitting the desperate hotel guests against each other in a tense battle of wits and wills. The film is a masterful exploration of human nature, power dynamics, and the complexities of morality, with Robinson delivering a chilling performance that showcases his range as an actor.
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3Edward G. Robinson, Douglas Fairbanks, Glenda FarrellThis quintessential gangster film sees Robinson take on the role of an ambitious mob boss, Rico Bandello, whose meteoric rise to power is matched only by his inevitable fall from grace. The groundbreaking film captures the gritty underworld of organized crime with brutal realism and paved the way for generations of cinematic gangsters to follow. Robinson's iconic performance as the ruthless, yet strangely vulnerable, Rico both defined his career and solidified his place in Hollywood history.
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4Edward G. Robinson, Orson Welles, Loretta YoungIn this suspenseful post-World War II thriller, an esteemed university professor conceals a dark secret: he is actually a fugitive Nazi war criminal hiding in plain sight. Robinson shines as Mr. Wilson, the relentless federal investigator determined to track down the elusive former officer and bring him to justice. As the cat-and-mouse game intensifies, Robinson expertly balances his character's unyielding fortitude with an underlying sense of humanity, making for a captivating and memorable performance.
5Edward G. Robinson, John Garfield, Ida LupinoAdapted from Jack London's classic novel, this seafaring adventure follows the dark and enigmatic Captain Wolf Larsen, played by Robinson, who rules his ship with an iron fist. As the captain faces physical and mental decline, he is forced to reckon with the harsh realities of his own actions and the impact they have had on those around him. Robinson's chilling depiction of a man grappling with his own morality contrasts vividly against the stunning backdrop of the high seas, making for an unforgettable viewing experience.
6Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, Raymond MasseyIn this psychological thriller, a chance encounter between a respected middle-aged professor and a beautiful young woman spirals into a nightmarish web of deceit, blackmail, and murder. Robinson's nuanced portrayal of a man entrapped by his own desires and driven to desperation is both gripping and heartbreaking. The film delves into themes of obsession, guilt, and how a single decision can irrevocably change the course of one's life, with Robinson at the crux of it all, displaying the depth and complexity of his acting talents.
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7Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, Dan DuryeaAn ordinary man's infatuation with a femme fatale takes a dark turn in this noirish tale of deception, obsession, and the thin line between art and madness. Robinson stars as Christopher Cross, a meek and unremarkable cashier who becomes ensnared in a dangerous web of lies when he unwittingly becomes involved with a seductive woman and her abusive lover. As events spiral out of control, Robinson delivers a riveting performance that exposes the vulnerability and desperation lurking beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary people.
8Edward G. Robinson, Susan Hayward, Richard ConteThe volatile dynamics within an Italian-American banking family come to a head in this tense drama, with Robinson taking on the role of the iron-fisted patriarch, Gino Monetti. Forced to confront the consequences of his own ruthless ambition and greed, Gino's relationships with his sons become increasingly strained as infighting threatens to destroy everything they've built. Robinson masterfully conveys the emotional turmoil of a broken family grappling with betrayal, loyalty, and the desire for power.
9Charlton Heston, Edward G. Robinson, Leigh Taylor-YoungSet within a dystopian future besieged by overpopulation and environmental collapse, this science fiction classic follows Robinson's final on-screen role as Sol Roth, an elderly researcher assisting a detective investigating a mysterious murder. The pair soon uncovers a shocking truth that has grave implications for the entire human race. Robinson's poignant portrayal of a man haunted by the ghosts of a dying world serves as a fitting swan song to his illustrious career.
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10Edward G. Robinson, Jane Wyman, Broderick CrawfordIn this comedic crime caper, Robinson plays an ex-con who, along with his bumbling cohorts, devises a scheme to rob a bank by tunneling into its vault from a neighboring luggage store. As their ineptitude leads them further into chaos and danger, Robinson's innate charisma and impeccable comedic timing shine through, making for a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience. The film showcases a lighter, more whimsical side of Robinson’s acting talents, proving that he was just as adept at eliciting laughter as he was at commanding fear.
11Steve McQueen, Edward G. Robinson, Ann-MargretIn this high-stakes poker drama, Robinson shines as Lancey Howard, a seasoned cardsharp known as "The Man," who faces off against a talented young upstart in an epic showdown. With both their reputations and fortunes on the line, the two engage in a tense battle of wits and nerves, culminating in a climactic final hand. Robinson's captivating performance as the wily, charismatic Howard showcases his ability to dominate a scene and capture the audience's intrigue.
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12Edward G. Robinson, Joan Blondell, Humphrey BogartRobinson tackles a dual role in this fast-paced crime drama, playing both a hard-nosed detective determined to bring down a powerful mob boss and the undercover gangster persona he adopts to infiltrate the criminal underworld. As the lines between his true identity and the dangerous game he's playing begin to blur, Robinson expertly conveys the moral ambiguity and tension that lies at the heart of the story. With an engaging plot and a standout performance from its leading man, this film is a must-watch for fans of classic crime cinema.
13Edward G. Robinson, Ruth Gordon, Donald CrispThis biographical drama tells the story of Dr. Paul Ehrlich, played by Robinson, a brilliant scientist and medical pioneer whose groundbreaking work in chemotherapy laid the foundation for modern cancer treatments. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Ehrlich's unwavering determination and passion for saving lives drive him forward. In a departure from his typical tough-guy roles, Robinson delivers a deeply humanizing portrayal of a man whose genius and compassion have had a lasting impact on the world.
14Edward G. Robinson, Jean Arthur, Arthur HohlRobinson demonstrates his gift for comedy in this screwball tale of mistaken identity, playing both a timid office clerk and the notorious gangster who happens to be his spitting image. As the hapless clerk becomes entangled in a web of confusion and danger, Robinson effortlessly switches between the dual roles, showcasing his impressive range as an actor. The film's rapid-fire dialogue, clever plot twists, and slapstick humor make for a delightful romp that still holds up today.
15Edward G. Robinson, Claire Trevor, Humphrey BogartIn this darkly comedic crime drama, Robinson stars as a brilliant physician fascinated by the criminal mind, diving deep into the underworld to study its inhabitants firsthand. As he becomes increasingly intertwined with the criminals he seeks to understand, the doctor's own morals are thrown into question, leading to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion. Robinson’s captivating performance keeps audiences guessing until the very end, solidifying his status as one of cinema's most engaging and versatile talents.
16Edward G. Robinson, Bette Davis, Humphrey BogartRobinson takes on the role of a tough-as-nails fight promoter in this boxing drama, training a talented young fighter while navigating the violent, high-stakes world of professional prizefighting. As his protege's star begins to rise, Robinson's character is forced to grapple with the ruthless nature of the business and his own wavering convictions. With a captivating blend of grit and vulnerability, Robinson delivers a knockout performance that packs an emotional punch.
17Edward G. Robinson, Margaret O'Brien, James CraigThis heartwarming family drama is set in rural Wisconsin, where Robinson plays a loving father and farmer attempting to instill his values and wisdom into his young daughter. Despite the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression, the film remains resolutely optimistic, depicting the strength of human resilience in the face of adversity. Robinson's touching portrayal of a steadfast and tender-hearted patriarch provides a refreshing change of pace from his more notorious roles.
18Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Edward G. RobinsonIn this epic biblical blockbuster, Robinson takes on the role of Dathan, a scheming, opportunistic slave who ultimately betrays his own people in a quest for power. As the story unfolds against a backdrop of sweeping historical events, Robinson's conniving antagonist serves as a potent foil to the film's more virtuous characters, injecting tension and conflict into the narrative. Robinson's portrayal of Dathan is a testament to his ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most villainous of roles in a distinctly unforgettable fashion.
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19Edward G. Robinson, Humphrey Bogart, Ann SothernThis unique blend of crime drama and comedy sees Robinson take on the role of a mob boss who, after an unsuccessful attempt on his life, takes refuge in a monastery under the guise of a humble gardener. As his former life continues to encroach upon his newfound sanctuary, Robinson's character grapples with the prospect of leaving behind his violent past in search of peace and redemption. The film showcases Robinson's ability to inject warmth and humanity into even the most hardened of criminals.
20Edward G. Robinson, Burt Lancaster, Mady ChristiansBased on Arthur Miller's classic play, this hard-hitting drama delves into the fraught relationships between a family torn apart by secrets and betrayal. Robinson stars as Joe Keller, a successful businessman whose shady past threatens to destroy both his reputation and his family. In a powerful and gut-wrenching performance, Robinson explores the depths of human guilt, responsibility, and the corrosive effects of unchecked ambition.
21Edward G. Robinson, James Cagney, Evalyn KnappIn this pre-Code crime film, Robinson plays Nick "The Barber" Venizelos, a small-town gambler who inadvertently becomes embroiled in the high-stakes world of big city corruption. As he navigates the dangers and temptations of his newfound surroundings, Nick's loyalty and cunning are put to the test, showcasing Robinson's skill for crafting compelling, morally complex characters. With its atmospheric setting and a standout performance from its leading man, Smart Money remains a captivating entry in the annals of crime cinema.
22Edward G. Robinson, Lon McCallister, Judith AndersonIn this psychological thriller, Robinson plays a disabled farmer whose dark past comes to light when a mysterious, abandoned house on his property becomes the center of local intrigue. As the truth slowly unravels, Robinson's character grapples with the weight of his buried secrets and the lengths he'll go to in order to keep them hidden. The film showcases Robinson's ability to convey a range of emotions and depths, creating a tense and gripping atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
23Frank Sinatra, Edward G. Robinson, Eleanor ParkerRobinson takes on a more light-hearted role in this comedic drama, playing the supportive brother of a widowed father struggling to care for his young son while maintaining his floundering business. As the elder sibling, Robinson's character offers guidance, wisdom, and a touch of humor in the face of adversity. The film showcases Robinson's innate likability and versatility as an actor, proving his ability to be equally engaging in both dramatic and comedic roles.
24Edward G. Robinson, James Stewart, Rose StradnerIn this hard-hitting crime drama, Robinson plays a notorious mob boss who returns from a prison sentence to find that the world has changed and his once-feared reputation has diminished. As he attempts to regain control of his empire, he is confronted with the harsh reality of his past actions and the impact they've had on his loved ones. Robinson’s gripping performance as a man facing the consequences of his own ruthlessness drives the film's exploration of power, legacy, and the possibility of redemption.
25Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy DavisIn this musical comedy, Robinson plays a supporting role alongside an all-star cast, including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, in a Prohibition-era Chicago setting. As a powerful mob boss, he showcases not only his acting prowess but also his singing and dancing skills in a series of entertaining musical numbers. While Robinson's part may be smaller in scope than some of his other roles, his charismatic presence still manages to steal the spotlight and elevate the film to new heights.
26Edward G. Robinson, Mary Astor, Shirley GreyThis comedic crime caper sees Robinson playing a recently retired mob boss who, in an attempt to reinvent himself, becomes embroiled in a series of misadventures within high society. His efforts to adjust to his new surroundings are both hilarious and endearing, as Robinson demonstrates his natural gift for physical comedy and razor-sharp wit. The Little Giant offers a delightful departure from Robinson's more serious roles, proving that his talents extended far beyond the gritty world of gangsters and criminals.
