All 25 Billy Wilder Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Get ready to dive into the world of classic cinema with our latest roundup, Billy Wilder Movies. This article takes you on a captivating journey through the iconic director’s timeless films, leaving no stone unturned as we explore his most notable works and shed light on his unique storytelling techniques. Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Billy Wilder’s directorial prowess.
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1. One Exciting Adventure (1934)
“One Exciting Adventure” is a charming 1934 comedy film from Universal Pictures. The story follows Rina Sorel, a charismatic singer with a knack for impulsively stealing diamonds from across Europe, simply because she loves their glitter. But things take an unexpected turn when she steals a diamond from a Parisian jewelry store. Just as the police are called, a mysterious stranger pays for the diamond, leaving the authorities puzzled.
2. Tales of Manhattan (1942)
“Tales of Manhattan” is a unique film that seamlessly blends comedy, drama, and romance. Set in the bustling city of Manhattan, the story revolves around a beautiful and mysterious formal tailcoat. This stunning piece of clothing somehow changes the lives of each one of its possessors in unexpected and significant ways.
3. Sabrina (1954)
Experience the timeless charm of Sabrina in this 1954 classic film starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, and William Holden. Directed by Billy Wilder and based on a play by Samuel A. Taylor, this romantic comedy takes viewers on a journey of love, wealth, and family dynamics.
4. The Seven Year Itch (1955)
Directed by Billy Wilder in the 1955 comedy-romance film, “The Seven Year Itch,” Tom Ewell plays a loving husband who is left at home with his family while they go on a summer vacation. As the sole caretaker, Ewell’s character is seduced by his sultry neighbor, brought to life by the unforgettable Marilyn Monroe.
5. Witness for the Prosecution (1957)
“Witness for the Prosecution” is an impressive 1957 film featuring a seasoned British barrister, Sir Wilfried Roberts, played by Charles Laughton. The story takes place in London in 1952 and revolves around a murder trial where Sir Wilfried must defend his client, Leonard Vole, portrayed by Tyrone Power. The plot is filled with surprising narrative twists, which makes the film an essential addition to the crime, drama, and mystery genres.
6. Love in the Afternoon (1957)
In “Love in the Afternoon” (1957), middle-aged playboy Frank Flannagan becomes enamored with Ariane, the daughter of a private detective hired to entrap him with a wife seeking divorce. As the unlikely couple navigates their way through a web of deception, they grow closer, unaware that Ariane is the mysterious girl Flannagan has been searching for all along. Directed by Billy Wilder and written by him and I. A. L.
7. Some Like It Hot (1959)
Some Like It Hot is a timeless comedy and romance film that captures the essence of the 1920s. Set against the backdrop of prohibition, the story follows two struggling Chicago musicians, Jerry and Joe, as they witness a brutal mob hit and flee the state disguised as women in an all-female band heading for Florida. In an effort to stay one step ahead of the gangster Spats Colombo, the in-disguise duo becomes entangled in a whirlwind of complications involving love, misunderstandings, and a millionaire’s elopement plan.
8. The Apartment (1960)
The Apartment, a timeless masterpiece from 1960, is a captivating tale blending comedy, drama, and romance that earned a remarkable 5 Oscars and 24 wins. Set in New York City, the story revolves around an insurance clerk named Baxter, who tries to climb the corporate ladder by lending his apartment to executives for clandestine affairs. As he navigates the complex world of office politics, he finds himself entangled in a love triangle between the executive’s girlfriend, Fran, and a manipulative colleague, Mr.
9. Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)
“Mutiny on the Bounty” (1962) is a captivating drama inspired by true events. The film is set in 1787, when the British merchant ship, the HMS Bounty, leaves Portsmouth on a mission to transport breadfruit from Tahiti to British Jamaica. However, the brutal conditions imposed by Captain William Bligh trigger a mutiny, led by officer Fletcher Christian, after enduring flogging and harsh discipline.
10. Irma la Douce (1963)
In the whimsical 1963 comedy, “Irma la Douce, “ Jack Lemmon plays an upright Parisian policeman who falls hopelessly in love with an alluring prostitute, played by Shirley MacLaine. Unable to bear the thought of her seeing other men, he ingeniously devises a plan to become her only customer under an alter-ego persona.
11. Casino Royale (1967)
In a playful twist on the classic James Bond formula, “Casino Royale” (1967) sees aging Sir James Bond come out of retirement to take on SMERSH in this early spy spoof. The movie stars David Niven, Peter Sellers, and Ursula Andress, who bring their unique charm and wit to the larger-than-life characters.
12. The Front Page (1974)
The Front Page, a witty and gripping 1974 comedy-drama directed by Billy Wilder, stars Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau as they bring a thrilling story to life. The film follows a relentless editor, played by Matthau, who is determined to get his top reporter, portrayed by Lemmon, to cover one last crime story before retirement.
13. That’s Entertainment, Part II (1976)
“That’s Entertainment, Part II” is the second installment in the renowned “That’s Entertainment” trilogy which takes the audience on a nostalgic journey to some of MGM’s most iconic musical scenes, this time intertwined with humor and drama. Directed by Gene Kelly and written by Leonard Gershe, this cinematic marvel showcases the timeless charm of MGM’s extensive catalogue and features beloved stars like Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Judy Garland.
14. Sabrina (1995)
“Sabrina, “ a 1995 romantic comedy-drama, tells the story of a young woman (Julia Ormond) transformed from an awkward teen into a sophisticated beauty, capturing the attention of two very different men, both Larrabees. One, the carefree playboy David (Greg Kinnear), finds himself in the midst of a corporate merger, while the other, David’s business-minded brother Linus (Harrison Ford), harbors secret feelings for Sabrina.
15. Billy Wilder Speaks (2006)
Billy Wilder Speaks, a 2006 documentary film, takes viewers on an intimate journey through the life and work of the legendary American film director and screenwriter, Billy Wilder. The movie is a compilation of interviews conducted by German director Volker Schlondorff over two weeks in 1988, providing an insightful perspective on Wilder’s career and the Hollywood golden age. The documentary features archive footage as well as excerpts from Wilder’s films, further enriching the viewing experience.
16. Il falso bugiardo (2008)
“The Cunning Deceiver” is an enthralling biographical documentary that delves into the captivating life and work of renowned screenwriter Luciano Vincenzoni. The film, released in 2008, draws inspiration from Vincenzoni’s biography, “Bread and Cinema,” offering a retrospective view of the man behind numerous globally adored blockbusters.
17. Cinema’s Exiles: From Hitler to Hollywood (2009)
“Cinema’s Exiles: From Hitler to Hollywood” is a gripping documentary that takes viewers on a journey through the remarkable escape of 800 German filmmakers in the 1930s. Tracing the roots of Berlin’s vibrant film industry in the 1920s and following the dramatic flight of these talented professionals to Hollywood, this film explores the personal stories of producers, directors, composers, editors, writers, and actors. The narrative weaves together voice-overs, archival footage, and film clips to deliver an in-depth exploration of the triumphs and struggles faced by those who made the courageous choice to leave Nazi Germany and build new lives in the glamorous world of Hollywood.
18. Variations on a High School Romance (2010)
“A Romantic High School Journey” highlights the dramatic stories of five high school students as they embark on the thrilling adventure of first love. Over the span of four years, viewers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride as these young adults learn invaluable life lessons and encounter the triumphs and heartbreaks that come with growing up. This captivating coming-of-age story masterfully combines humor, drama, and romance, captivating its audience from beginning to end.
19. 10 pelis (2011)
In the heart of the suburbs is where “10 pelis, “ a dark comedy, takes place. A quirky video store called Akaba becomes the backdrop for an enthralling tale filled with both comedy and tragedy. Meet Forti, the self-proclaimed movie enthusiast, Doc, the man with a wealth of movie knowledge, and Nic, an aspiring filmmaker.
20. Love, Marilyn (2012)
Experience the enigmatic and enduring legacy of Marilyn Monroe in the riveting documentary, “Love, Marilyn. “ Set in today’s modern world, the film features a star-studded ensemble of contemporary celebrities reading excerpts from the memoirs penned by those who interacted closely with Monroe, alongside her newly unearthed personal journals and letters. This innovative approach allows the audience to delve deeper into the complexities of the iconic sex symbol and her captivating presence in the annals of American culture.
21. A Little Bit Zombie (2012)
A Little Bit Zombie is a hilarious 2012 film that combines comedy, horror, and sci-fi. The story follows a mild-mannered HR manager whose life takes an unexpected turn after being infected by a virus. As he struggles to fulfill his overwhelming desire for brains, he also tries to keep things under control and avoid angering his soon-to-be-bridezilla.
22. And the Oscar Goes to… (2014)
“And the Oscar Goes to. . “ is a documentary that takes a captivating journey through the fascinating history of the prestigious Academy Awards. The film unravels the stories behind the iconic statuette, offering an insightful look at the people, milestones, and drama that shaped the Oscars.
23. Nosferatu vs. Father Pipecock & Sister Funk (2014)
Step into a darkly comedic, erotic horror world with “Nosferatu vs. Father Pipecock & Sister Funk. “ This cult classic film, released in 2014, follows Count Orlock, a shape-shifting Transylvanian vampire who seduces a man named Martin. Expect a blend of adventure, comedy, and fantasy as Martin’s encounter with the vampire takes him on an unforgettable journey.
24. Once in a Lew Moon (2015)
“Once in a Lew Moon” is a riveting documentary that delves into the life and journey of Lew Hunter, a farm boy from Nebraska, who dared to dream big and make it in the cutthroat world of Hollywood. This inspiring tale, which unfolds over a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes, captures the compelling narrative of one man’s relentless pursuit of his dreams and the obstacles he faced along the way.
25. Night Job (2017)
Get ready for a wild night on duty with Night Job (2017)! This unpredictable comedy follows our main character, James, as he starts his first night guard job at a luxurious New York apartment building.
