Elizabeth Taylor was an iconic actress who starred in some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed films in Hollywood history.
Throughout her career, which spanned over five decades, she earned two Academy Awards for Best Actress and became known for her beauty, talent, and strong screen presence. Here are some of the best Elizabeth Taylor movies that showcase her range as an actress.
Taylor’s performance in the film earned her her second Academy Award for Best Actress.
Best Elizabeth Taylor Movies
These films represent some of the best work of Elizabeth Taylor’s career and showcase her talent, beauty, and range as an actress.
1. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)
“Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” is a 1966 drama film directed by Mike Nichols and starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
The film is based on the play of the same name by Edward Albee and tells the story of a bitter and dysfunctional couple who engage in a night-long battle of wits and emotional manipulation with a younger couple.
The film is known for its intense and powerful performances, particularly from Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who were married at the time of filming.
Both actors deliver some of the finest work of their careers, with Taylor delivering a particularly stunning performance as the emotionally fragile and volatile Martha.
“Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning numerous awards and nominations, including 13 Academy Award nominations, with Taylor winning the award for Best Actress.
The film is praised for its powerful performances, sharp screenplay, and skillful direction, and remains a landmark of American cinema.
2. BUtterfield 8 (1960)
“BUtterfield 8” is a 1960 drama film directed by Daniel Mann and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Laurence Harvey, and Eddie Fisher.
The movie is based on the novel of the same name by John O’Hara and tells the story of a Manhattan call girl named Gloria Wandrous (Elizabeth Taylor) who gets involved with a wealthy, married man named Weston Liggett (Laurence Harvey).
As Gloria and Weston’s relationship develops, they must confront their own inner demons and the judgment of those around them.
Gloria struggles with her own self-destructive behavior and her feelings of unworthiness, while Weston grapples with his guilt and the damage that his actions have caused to his family.
The film explores themes of love, morality, and redemption as the two characters try to find their way through the complex and often unforgiving world of high society.
“BUtterfield 8” was a controversial film upon its release, both for its frank portrayal of sexuality and for the on-set drama involving its stars.
However, it was also praised for Elizabeth Taylor’s powerful performance in the lead role, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
The movie’s lush cinematography and evocative score also contributed to its success, helping to cement its place as a classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
3. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)
“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” is a 1958 American drama film directed by Richard Brooks and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, and Burl Ives. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Tennessee Williams.
The story takes place on a steamy Mississippi plantation, where the wealthy Pollitt family has gathered to celebrate the birthday of patriarch Big Daddy (Ives).
Newman plays Brick, Big Daddy’s son and former star athlete, who has become an alcoholic and withdrawn from his wife Maggie (Taylor). As the family grapples with issues of greed, mortality, and personal relationships, long-simmering tensions boil over and secrets are revealed.
The film is known for its powerful performances, particularly by Taylor and Newman, who were both nominated for Academy Awards for their roles. The film also deals with themes of family dysfunction, repressed homosexuality, and the corrosive effects of wealth and power.
“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic of American cinema. The film’s themes and performances have made it a timeless exploration of human relationships and the complexities of family dynamics.
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4. Suddenly, Last Summer (1959)
“Suddenly, Last Summer” is a psychological thriller film released in 1959, directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and based on the play of the same name by Tennessee Williams. The film stars Elizabeth Taylor, Katharine Hepburn, and Montgomery Clift.
The film follows the story of Catherine Holly (Taylor), a young woman who witnessed the death of her cousin Sebastian while the two were on a trip to Europe. Catherine is traumatized by the experience and is committed to a mental institution.
Sebastian’s mother, Violet Venable (Hepburn), is determined to have Catherine lobotomized in order to prevent her from revealing the truth about Sebastian’s death.
“Suddenly, Last Summer” is a complex and disturbing film that deals with themes of trauma, memory, and the darker aspects of human nature.
The performances by Taylor and Hepburn are particularly noteworthy, with Taylor delivering a powerful and emotionally charged performance as the traumatized Catherine and Hepburn bringing a sense of icy detachment to the role of the scheming Violet.
The film was controversial upon its release due to its frank treatment of homosexuality and its portrayal of mental illness, and it continues to be a challenging and thought-provoking work today.
Overall, “Suddenly, Last Summer” is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in exploring the darker aspects of the human psyche.
5. Giant (1956)
“Giant” is a 1956 epic drama film directed by George Stevens and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean.
Based on the novel of the same name by Edna Ferber, the film explores the lives of two Texas families, the Benedicts and the Lynns, over a period of several decades.
Elizabeth Taylor delivers a memorable performance as Leslie Benedict, a strong-willed woman who marries wealthy rancher Bick Benedict (Rock Hudson).
James Dean plays Jett Rink, a poor ranch hand who becomes wealthy through his discovery of oil. The film examines themes of class, race, and family dynamics against the backdrop of Texas’ changing landscape and evolving social norms.
“Giant” was praised for its sweeping scope, rich character development, and strong performances from its leads. It received ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won for Best Director for George Stevens.
Overall, “Giant” is a landmark film that captures a pivotal moment in American history and explores complex themes with depth and nuance. It is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema and those interested in exploring important social issues on the big screen.
6. Cleopatra (1963)
Cleopatra is a 1963 historical epic film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison.
The film tells the story of the legendary Egyptian queen Cleopatra (Taylor) and her tumultuous relationships with Roman generals Julius Caesar (Harrison) and Mark Antony (Burton).
The film was known for its extravagant production, including elaborate sets, costumes, and a record-breaking budget. It was also infamous for the highly publicized affair between Taylor and Burton, who were both married at the time.
Despite the controversy surrounding its production, Cleopatra was a commercial success and earned several Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Elizabeth Taylor’s performance was widely praised, as were the film’s lavish visuals and epic scope.
While the film has been criticized for its historical inaccuracies and overindulgence, it remains a notable example of Hollywood’s grandiose approach to historical epics in the 1960s.
Cleopatra’s legacy has also influenced pop culture and fashion, with Taylor’s iconic portrayal of the queen becoming an enduring symbol of glamour and sophistication.
7. Raintree County (1957)
“Raintree County” is a sweeping romantic drama film released in 1957, directed by Edward Dmytryk and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Montgomery Clift, and Eva Marie Saint.
The movie is set in the American South during the Civil War era and follows the story of John Shawnessy (Montgomery Clift), a young man from Raintree County who falls in love with Susanna Drake (Elizabeth Taylor), a beautiful and mysterious woman with a tragic past.
Here are some key highlights and reasons to watch “Raintree County”:
Strong Performances: The film features outstanding performances from its cast, particularly Elizabeth Taylor, who brings depth and complexity to her role as Susanna Drake.
Montgomery Clift also delivers a nuanced performance as John Shawnessy, a young man with a passion for literature and a deep sense of idealism.
Epic Romance: “Raintree County” is a sweeping romantic drama that captures the intensity and emotional turmoil of first love. The chemistry between Taylor and Clift is palpable, and their on-screen romance is both passionate and heartbreaking.
Historical Significance: The film is set during the Civil War era and explores themes of slavery, race relations, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.
It offers a unique perspective on this period in American history and sheds light on the social and political tensions that existed at the time.
Overall, “Raintree County” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant film that features strong performances, an epic romance, and historical significance. It is a must-watch for fans of classic romantic dramas and historical films.
8. The Taming of The Shrew (1967)
“The Taming of the Shrew” is a 1967 romantic comedy film directed by Franco Zeffirelli and starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
The film is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play of the same name and tells the story of a wealthy merchant who seeks to marry off his shrewish daughter, Katharina, to a wealthy suitor, Petruchio, who must “tame” her before they can live happily ever after.
The film is known for its charming and witty screenplay, as well as its strong performances, particularly from Taylor and Burton, who bring a chemistry and playfulness to their roles.
The film’s supporting cast is also notable, with Michael Hordern and Cyril Cusack delivering standout performances.
“The Taming of the Shrew” was a commercial success upon its release and has since become a beloved classic of Shakespearean cinema. The film is praised for its playful and witty approach to the source material, as well as its strong performances and skillful direction by Zeffirelli.
9. X, Y and Zee (1972)
“X, Y and Zee” is a 1972 British drama film directed by Brian G. Hutton and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Caine, and Susannah York.
The movie tells the story of a tumultuous love triangle between a wealthy couple, Robert (Michael Caine) and Zee (Elizabeth Taylor), and a young artist named Stella (Susannah York).
As the relationship between Robert and Stella grows, Zee becomes increasingly jealous and vindictive, lashing out at both of them in an attempt to regain control.
The film explores themes of jealousy, infidelity, and power dynamics in relationships, as the characters struggle to reconcile their desires with their sense of morality.
“X, Y and Zee” was not a commercial success upon its release and received mixed reviews from critics, but it has since gained a cult following among fans of Elizabeth Taylor and classic British cinema.
The film is notable for its strong performances from all three leads, as well as its bold portrayal of complex and flawed characters. It is a powerful exploration of the human psyche and the destructive forces of love and desire.
10. Ash Wednesday (1973)
“Ash Wednesday” is a 1973 American drama film directed by Larry Peerce and starring Elizabeth Taylor and Henry Fonda. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Ethan Mordden.
The story follows the character of Barbara Sawyer (Taylor), a former call girl who has given up her life of luxury and prostitution to marry a wealthy businessman named Tony (Fonda).
However, when Tony is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Barbara is forced to confront the reality of her past and the choices she has made.
As Tony’s condition worsens, Barbara turns to her former lover and pimp, played by Keith Baxter, for support and guidance. The film explores themes of mortality, redemption, and the consequences of past choices.
“Ash Wednesday” received mixed reviews upon its release, but it has since gained a reputation as a cult classic.
The film is notable for its frank and unflinching portrayal of a woman’s struggle to come to terms with her past, and for Taylor’s powerful performance in the lead role. The film’s themes and complex characters continue to resonate with audiences today.
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11. Hammersmith Is Out (1972)
“Hammersmith Is Out” is a dark comedy film released in 1972, directed by Peter Ustinov and starring Ustinov, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton.
The film follows the story of Hammersmith (Ustinov), a mentally unstable man who has been committed to a mental institution.
He is released into the care of his former girlfriend, Jimmie Jean (Taylor), and her husband, Billy Breedlove (Burton), a wealthy businessman who uses Hammersmith for his own nefarious purposes.
“Hammersmith Is Out” is a satirical and absurd film that explores themes of power, control, and the manipulation of the vulnerable.
Ustinov’s performance as the unstable Hammersmith is particularly noteworthy, bringing both humor and pathos to the character. Taylor and Burton also deliver strong performances, with Taylor playing the enigmatic Jimmie Jean and Burton playing the ruthless Breedlove.
The film was not a commercial success upon its release and received mixed reviews from critics.
However, it has gained a cult following over the years and is notable for its unique blend of comedy and darkness, as well as its strong cast and stylish direction by Ustinov. Fans of offbeat comedies and unconventional storytelling may enjoy “Hammersmith Is Out.”
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12. A Place in the Sun (1951)
“A Place in the Sun” is a 1951 drama film directed by George Stevens and starring Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, and Shelley Winters.
Based on the novel “An American Tragedy” by Theodore Dreiser, the film tells the story of George Eastman (Clift), a poor young man who falls in love with a wealthy socialite named Angela Vickers (Taylor).
However, George is also involved with Alice Tripp (Winters), a factory worker who becomes pregnant with his child.
The film explores themes of class, wealth, and morality, as well as the destructive consequences of ambition and desire.
Montgomery Clift delivers a powerful performance as George, capturing the character’s internal struggle and sense of isolation. Elizabeth Taylor is radiant as Angela, embodying the glamour and privilege of the upper class.
“A Place in the Sun” was praised for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and its haunting exploration of the American Dream. It received six Academy Awards nominations, including Best Director for George Stevens, and won for Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design.
Overall, “A Place in the Sun” is a timeless classic that offers a poignant and thought-provoking examination of the human condition. It is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood dramas and those interested in exploring important social themes on the big screen.
13. Father of the Bride (1950)
Father of the Bride is a 1950 comedy film directed by Vincente Minnelli and starring Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett, and Elizabeth Taylor.
The film follows the story of a doting father, Stanley Banks (Tracy), who is reluctant to give away his beloved daughter, Kay (Taylor), when she announces her engagement to a young man named Buckley (Don Taylor).
As the wedding preparations get underway, Stanley becomes increasingly anxious and overwhelmed, grappling with the costs and chaos of the event while also struggling to come to terms with the fact that his daughter is all grown up.
The film explores the themes of family, love, and the challenges of letting go.
Father of the Bride was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning three Academy Award nominations and spawning a sequel, Father’s Little Dividend, two years later.
The film has since become a beloved classic, praised for its warm humor, relatable characters, and heartfelt message about the importance of family and the joys and pains of parenthood.
The film has also been remade twice, in 1991 with Steve Martin and in 2018 with Hispanic actors, reflecting the universal appeal of the story and its enduring relevance to modern audiences.
14. National Velvet (1944)
“National Velvet” is a beloved family-friendly drama film released in 1944, directed by Clarence Brown and starring Elizabeth Taylor in her breakout role.
The movie tells the story of Velvet Brown (Elizabeth Taylor), a young girl who dreams of owning and training a horse to enter the Grand National, one of England’s most prestigious horse races.
Here are some key highlights and reasons to watch “National Velvet”:
Iconic Performance: Elizabeth Taylor delivers an iconic performance as Velvet Brown, a headstrong and determined young girl who defies societal expectations and pursues her passion for horse racing. Her natural talent and charisma shine through in every scene, making her a true star in the making.
Heartwarming Story: The film is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of perseverance, determination, and the power of dreams. It shows how with hard work, dedication, and the support of family and friends, anything is possible.
Beautiful Cinematography: The film features stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and majesty of horses and the English countryside. The horse racing scenes are especially thrilling and well-shot, making them a highlight of the movie.
Overall, “National Velvet” is a classic film that continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its heartwarming story, iconic performances, and beautiful cinematography. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves horses, classic films, or inspiring tales of perseverance and determination.
15. Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967)
“Reflections in a Golden Eye” is a 1967 drama film directed by John Huston and starring Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, and Brian Keith.
The film is based on the novel of the same name by Carson McCullers and tells the story of a group of characters stationed at a military base in the American South, all of whom are struggling with repressed desires and personal demons.
The film is known for its dark and intense tone, as well as its strong performances from its ensemble cast.
Marlon Brando delivers a particularly powerful performance as a repressed and conflicted major, while Elizabeth Taylor brings a raw vulnerability to her role as his disturbed and unfulfilled wife.
“Reflections in a Golden Eye” was not a commercial success upon its release, but has since become a cult classic of American cinema.
The film is praised for its powerful and nuanced exploration of repressed desires and personal turmoil, as well as its strong performances and skillful direction by Huston.
16. Ivanhoe (1952)
“Ivanhoe” is a 1952 adventure film directed by Richard Thorpe and starring Robert Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor, and Joan Fontaine.
The movie is based on the historical novel of the same name by Sir Walter Scott and tells the story of a young Saxon knight named Wilfred of Ivanhoe (Robert Taylor) who returns from the Crusades to find his homeland torn apart by conflict between Normans and Saxons.
As Ivanhoe tries to navigate the complex political landscape of medieval England, he becomes entangled in a web of love, betrayal, and intrigue.
He falls in love with the beautiful Lady Rowena (Joan Fontaine) but finds himself competing for her affections with the cunning Rebecca (Elizabeth Taylor), a Jewish healer who is despised by the Normans for her faith.
“Ivanhoe” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its lavish production values, sweeping score, and strong performances from the cast.
The film is notable for its colorful portrayal of medieval England, with elaborate costumes and set design creating a vivid and immersive world for the characters to inhabit.
It is a classic example of the swashbuckling adventure genre, blending action, romance, and drama into a thrilling tale of heroism and redemption.
17. Father’s Little Dividend (1951)
“Father’s Little Dividend” is a 1951 American comedy film directed by Vincente Minnelli and starring Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett, and Elizabeth Taylor.
The film is a sequel to the 1950 hit film “Father of the Bride” and follows the story of Stanley Banks (Tracy) as he navigates the challenges of becoming a grandfather.
After his daughter Kay (Taylor) announces that she is pregnant, Stanley worries about the impact that this will have on his family and his own life.
As he tries to come to terms with his new role as a grandfather, he is also dealing with his son-in-law’s financial troubles and his own feelings of mortality.
The film is notable for its exploration of the changing roles of men and women in post-World War II America, as well as for its strong performances by the cast.
Tracy and Bennett reprise their roles from the first film, while Taylor delivers a memorable performance as the pregnant and independent Kay.
“Father’s Little Dividend” was a commercial and critical success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic of American cinema. The film’s themes of family, aging, and change continue to resonate with audiences today.
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18. The V.I.P.s (1963)
“The V.I.P.s” is a drama film released in 1963, directed by Anthony Asquith and starring an ensemble cast including Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Maggie Smith, and Orson Welles.
The film takes place in London’s Heathrow Airport, where a group of wealthy and influential individuals are stranded due to fog.
Among the passengers are the troubled marriage of millionaire Paul Andros (Burton) and his wife Frances (Taylor), a former showgirl who is contemplating leaving her husband.
Also on board is a young actress (Smith) who is desperately trying to make it to her big break in Hollywood, a businessman (Welles) who is facing financial ruin, and a countess (Gladys Cooper) who is determined to maintain her dignity and status no matter the cost.
“The V.I.P.s” is a stylish and emotionally charged film that explores themes of love, power, and desperation.
The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, with Taylor and Burton bringing a sense of tumultuousness to their troubled marriage and Smith delivering a breakout performance as the ambitious young actress.
The film is also notable for its elegant cinematography, which captures the airport setting in a way that is both grand and claustrophobic.
“The V.I.P.s” received mixed reviews upon its release, but has since gained a cult following among fans of classic cinema. It is a must-see for fans of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, as well as those interested in exploring the glamorous and emotionally charged world of mid-20th century high society.
19. Lassie Come Home (1943)
“Lassie Come Home” is a 1943 family drama film directed by Fred M. Wilcox and starring Roddy McDowall, Donald Crisp, and a collie named Pal in the titular role of Lassie.
Based on the 1940 novel by Eric Knight, the film tells the heartwarming story of a loyal and determined dog who travels a great distance to return to her beloved young owner.
Set in rural Yorkshire, England during the Great Depression, “Lassie Come Home” explores themes of family, loyalty, and perseverance.
The film showcases the bond between a boy named Joe Carraclough (McDowall) and his faithful dog Lassie, who is sold by the boy’s father (Crisp) to a wealthy Duke in Scotland. Despite being separated from her family, Lassie remains determined to find her way back home to Joe.
The film features beautiful cinematography, a memorable score, and strong performances from its cast, including a standout performance by the talented collie Pal as Lassie. “Lassie Come Home” has become a beloved classic and has spawned numerous adaptations and spin-offs over the years.
Overall, “Lassie Come Home” is a heartwarming and timeless family film that celebrates the unbreakable bond between humans and their animal companions. It is a must-see for dog lovers and fans of classic family films.
20. Life with Father (1947)
Life with Father is a 1947 comedy film directed by Michael Curtiz and starring William Powell and Irene Dunne. The film is based on the humorous memoirs of Clarence Day Jr., which chronicle his experiences growing up in a wealthy New York City family at the turn of the 20th century.
William Powell stars as Clarence Day Sr., a domineering and eccentric patriarch who is determined to run his household with military precision. Irene Dunne plays his long-suffering wife, Vinnie, who tries to keep the family together despite Clarence’s quirks and idiosyncrasies.
The film follows the Day family over the course of a year, as they navigate the ups and downs of life in early 20th century America. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including their four sons, a stern governess, and a parade of eccentric relatives and neighbors.
Life with Father was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning four Academy Award nominations and becoming one of the top-grossing films of the year.
The film’s humor, warmth, and nostalgic charm have made it a beloved classic over the years, with Powell and Dunne’s performances praised for their chemistry and comic timing.
Life with Father is also notable for its portrayal of turn-of-the-century New York City, which is brought to life through the film’s meticulous production design and costume work.
3 Reasons To Watch Elizabeth Taylor Movies
Iconic performances: Elizabeth Taylor was one of the most talented and iconic actresses of her time, and her performances in movies like “Cleopatra”, “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”, and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” are still celebrated today.
Watching her on screen is a
Hollywood history: Elizabeth Taylor was a Hollywood legend, and her career spanned over five decades. Watching her movies is a way to explore the history of Hollywood and to see how the movie industry has evolved over time.
Timeless beauty: Elizabeth Taylor was known for her stunning beauty and impeccable sense of style. Watching her movies is a way to appreciate her timeless glamour and to see how fashion and beauty trends have changed over the years.
Overall, Elizabeth Taylor was a remarkable actress and Hollywood icon, and her movies are a testament to her talent and enduring legacy.
Whether you’re a fan of classic movies, Hollywood history, or just appreciate great acting and timeless beauty, Elizabeth Taylor movies are definitely worth watching.
Best Elizabeth Taylor Movies – Wrap Up
These films showcase Elizabeth Taylor’s range as an actress and her ability to deliver powerful and nuanced performances in a variety of genres, from drama to romance to comedy.
Her iconic roles in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” are considered some of the finest performances in cinema history, while her portrayal of the beautiful and seductive Cleopatra in “Cleopatra” helped solidify her status as a Hollywood icon.
Taylor’s talent, beauty, and charisma continue to captivate audiences to this day, making her one of the most beloved actresses in film history.
