20 Best Jason Robards Movies: The Steadfast Talent of a Stage and Film Luminary

Jason Robards was an American actor known for his powerful performances on stage and screen.

He had a career that spanned over five decades, and appeared in over 80 films and numerous television shows, as well as many stage productions.

Robards was known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence, and was widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

Some of Jason Robards’ most memorable film roles include his portrayal of the hard-drinking newspaper editor Ben Bradlee in “All the President’s Men” (1976), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

His performance as the cantankerous patriarch in “A Thousand Clowns” (1965), and his portrayal of the doomed novelist Eugene O’Neill in “Long Day’s Journey into Night” (1962).

Other notable films featuring Robards include “Once Upon a Time in the West” (1968), “Julia” (1977), “Magnolia” (1999), and “Parenthood” (1989).

Robards also had a distinguished career in television, appearing in numerous TV shows and miniseries, including “Washington: Behind Closed Doors” (1977) and “Inherit the Wind” (1988).

Best Jason Robards Movies

Overall, Jason Robards’ body of work is a testament to his incredible talent and versatility as an actor, and he remains a beloved figure in American cinema and theater.

1. All the President’s Men (1976)

“All the President’s Men” is a 1976 American political thriller film directed by Alan J. Pakula.

The film is based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, two journalists from The Washington Post who uncovered the Watergate scandal that eventually led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.

The film follows Woodward (played by Robert Redford) and Bernstein (played by Dustin Hoffman) as they investigate the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in 1972.

As they dig deeper, they uncover evidence of a massive cover-up involving high-ranking officials in the Nixon administration.

“All the President’s Men” is known for its gripping narrative and realistic portrayal of investigative journalism.

The film highlights the importance of a free and independent press in holding those in power accountable and exposing corruption. It also features strong performances by its lead actors and a memorable score by composer David Shire.

The film was a critical and commercial success and won four Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Jason Robards, who played Washington Post editor Ben Bradlee.

It is widely regarded as one of the greatest political thrillers and one of the best films of the 1970s.

2. Julia (1977)

“Julia” is a 1977 drama film directed by Fred Zinnemann and based on the memoir “Pentimento” by Lillian Hellman.

The movie follows the story of Lillian Hellman (played by Jane Fonda), a successful playwright and screenwriter who reminisces about her friendship with a childhood friend, Julia (played by Vanessa Redgrave).

The film tells the story of the two women, who grew up together in the 1930s and later went their separate ways. Julia becomes involved in anti-fascist activities in Europe, while Hellman becomes a successful writer in New York City.

When Julia asks Hellman for help in smuggling funds to anti-fascist fighters in Europe, Hellman travels to Europe and risks her own life to help her friend.

“Julia” is a powerful and emotional film that explores themes of friendship, courage, and political activism. The movie was critically acclaimed upon its release, and Vanessa Redgrave won an Academy Award for her performance as Julia.

The film is also notable for its all-star cast, which includes Jason Robards, Maximilian Schell, and Meryl Streep.

The movie’s stunning cinematography and period-accurate set design and costumes transport viewers back to the 1930s and provide a rich and immersive viewing experience.

Overall, “Julia” is a compelling and thought-provoking film that tells a powerful story of friendship and political activism. It is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of great danger.

3. Philadelphia (1993)

Philadelphia is a 1993 American drama film directed by Jonathan Demme and stars Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, and Antonio Banderas.

The film follows the story of Andrew Beckett, a successful lawyer who is fired from his job when his employer discovers he has HIV. Beckett hires a homophobic lawyer, Joe Miller, to represent him in a wrongful termination lawsuit and fight against the discrimination he has faced.

Philadelphia is notable for being one of the first mainstream Hollywood movies to tackle the issue of AIDS and homophobia.

The film was praised for its sensitive portrayal of the disease and its impact on the individual and their loved ones.

Tom Hanks won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance as Andrew Beckett, becoming the first actor to win an Oscar for a role that portrays a person living with AIDS.

The film also addressed the issue of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the workplace.

Philadelphia was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide, and it helped raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic and the need for greater acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community.

4. A Thousand Clowns (1965)

“A Thousand Clowns” is a 1965 American comedy-drama film directed by Fred Coe and starring Jason Robards. The film is based on the Tony Award-winning play of the same name by Herb Gardner.

The story follows Murray Burns, a former television writer who lives in New York City with his young nephew, Nick. Murray is an eccentric and free-spirited man who refuses to conform to societal norms or expectations.

When social workers come to investigate Murray’s fitness as a guardian for Nick, he must decide whether to comply with their demands or fight for his own way of life.

“A Thousand Clowns” is known for its witty and irreverent humor, as well as its exploration of nonconformity and the tension between individualism and conformity in American society.

The film was a critical and commercial success and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

The film’s themes and characters have continued to resonate with audiences and have made “A Thousand Clowns” a beloved classic of American cinema.

5. Melvin and Howard (1980)

“Melvin and Howard” is a 1980 American comedy-drama film directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Paul Le Mat and Jason Robards.

The film tells the story of Melvin Dummar, a down-on-his-luck milkman who claims to have given a ride to the wealthy eccentric Howard Hughes and been promised a large inheritance in return.

The film explores the themes of the American Dream, celebrity, and the nature of truth, as it portrays the challenges and contradictions of the American Dream and the impact of fame and wealth on people’s lives.

“Melvin and Howard” was well-received by critics and audiences alike and won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress (Mary Steenburgen) and Best Original Screenplay.

It is regarded as one of Demme’s most accomplished and distinctive films, blending humor and drama to create a memorable and poignant portrayal of the American experience.

6. Long Day’s Journey Into Night (1962)

“Long Day’s Journey Into Night” is a 1962 film adaptation of Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name. The film was directed by Sidney Lumet and stars Katharine Hepburn, Ralph Richardson, Jason Robards, and Dean Stockwell.

The film follows the Tyrone family over the course of one day as they grapple with their personal demons and a history of addiction and betrayal.

The patriarch of the family, James Tyrone (Richardson), is a former actor whose frugality has led to his family’s emotional and physical deterioration.

His wife, Mary (Hepburn), struggles with a morphine addiction, while their sons, Jamie (Robards) and Edmund (Stockwell), battle their own demons.

The film is known for its powerful performances and unflinching portrayal of addiction and family dysfunction. It received critical acclaim upon its release and was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Richardson and Best Adapted Screenplay for Lumet.

“Long Day’s Journey Into Night” is considered a classic of American theater and has been adapted for stage and screen numerous times. The film adaptation is widely regarded as a faithful and powerful rendering of O’Neill’s masterpiece.

7. Magnolia (1999)

“Magnolia” is a 1999 American ensemble drama film written, produced and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film tells the story of several interrelated characters in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, whose lives are affected by chance, coincidence, and fate.

Jason Robards plays Earl Partridge, a dying man who is estranged from his son and seeking redemption before he passes away.

His storyline intersects with those of other characters, including a lonely police officer, a game show host, a dying former child star, and a self-help guru, among others.

Robards delivers a powerful and poignant performance as Earl, capturing both the character’s bitterness and regret, as well as his longing for reconciliation and forgiveness. His portrayal of a man facing the end of his life with both fear and courage is both moving and deeply affecting.

“Magnolia” was critically acclaimed upon its release, and has since been regarded as one of the most ambitious and innovative films of the 1990s.

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, which includes Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and John C. Reilly, among others. It is noted for its complex narrative structure, use of music, and themes of forgiveness and redemption.

8. Parenthood (1989)

“Parenthood” is a 1989 American comedy-drama film directed by Ron Howard. The film follows the lives of four siblings and their families as they navigate the ups and downs of parenthood.

The film features an ensemble cast, including Steve Martin, Mary Steenburgen, Dianne Wiest, Jason Robards, Rick Moranis, Keanu Reeves, and Joaquin Phoenix in his film debut.

Each family faces their own unique challenges, including infertility, divorce, teenage rebellion, and learning disabilities.

“Parenthood” is known for its heartfelt and realistic portrayal of family life, as well as its comedic and dramatic moments.

The film explores themes such as the importance of communication and support within families, the challenges of balancing work and family, and the joys and struggles of raising children.

The film was both a critical and commercial success and has since become a beloved classic. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Dianne Wiest, and has been adapted into a successful television series.

9. Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)

“Once Upon a Time in the West” is a 1968 epic Western film directed by Sergio Leone, starring Henry Fonda, Claudia Cardinale, Charles Bronson, and Jason Robards.

The movie is widely regarded as one of the greatest Westerns ever made, and is notable for its stunning cinematography, memorable music score, and ensemble cast.

The film tells the story of a mysterious stranger, known as “Harmonica” (played by Bronson),

who arrives in a small Western town and becomes embroiled in a struggle between a ruthless railroad baron (Fonda), a widow (Cardinale) trying to protect her land, and a notorious outlaw (Robards) seeking revenge.

“Once Upon a Time in the West” is a visually stunning film, featuring expansive landscapes, sweeping camera shots, and iconic scenes that have become legendary in cinema history.

The movie’s haunting musical score, composed by Ennio Morricone, has become one of the most recognizable and beloved soundtracks in film history.

The film is also notable for its complex characters and themes, which explore the nature of power, greed, revenge, and redemption in the American West.

The performances of the ensemble cast are all superb, with Fonda’s portrayal of a villainous character standing out as particularly memorable.

Overall, “Once Upon a Time in the West” is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time and continues to be revered by filmmakers and movie fans alike.

It is a quintessential Western that combines action, drama, and romance in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

10. Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970)

Tora! Tora! Tora! is a 1970 American-Japanese war film directed by Richard Fleischer, Toshio Masuda, and Kinji Fukasaku. The film tells the story of the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941.

The film takes a historical approach and depicts both the Japanese and American perspectives leading up to the attack.

It shows the decision-making process of Japanese leaders and their military strategists as well as the intelligence failures and miscommunications that allowed the attack to take place.

Tora! Tora! Tora! is notable for its attention to historical accuracy and for its use of practical effects and real aircraft rather than relying on special effects.

The film features an ensemble cast of American and Japanese actors, including Martin Balsam, Joseph Cotten, Tatsuya Mihashi, and So Yamamura.

The film received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a reputation as a well-crafted and respectful historical epic. It was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography and Best Special Effects.

11. Max Dugan Returns (1983)

“Max Dugan Returns” is a 1983 American comedy film directed by Herbert Ross and starring Marsha Mason, Jason Robards, and Donald Sutherland.

The film tells the story of a struggling single mother named Nora who is reunited with her long-lost father, Max Dugan, a charming but shady character who has returned to town with a briefcase full of stolen money.

As Nora and Max reconnect, he begins to make up for lost time by showering her and her son with gifts and extravagant experiences. However, Nora must decide whether to accept the gifts and overlook Max’s illegal activities or turn him in to the authorities.

“Max Dugan Returns” is known for its witty dialogue and lighthearted tone, as well as its exploration of themes such as family, forgiveness, and the importance of living in the present.

The film was a box office success and received positive reviews from critics, who praised the performances of the cast and the film’s heartwarming message.

Despite being over 30 years old, “Max Dugan Returns” remains a beloved classic of American cinema, and its themes and characters continue to resonate with audiences today.

12. The Paper (1994

“The Paper” is a 1994 American comedy-drama film directed by Ron Howard and starring Michael Keaton, Glenn Close, Marisa Tomei, and Robert Duvall.

The film takes place over a 24-hour period and follows the staff of a fictional New York City tabloid newspaper, as they race against the clock to cover breaking news stories and meet their deadlines.

The film explores themes of journalistic integrity, the role of the media in society, and the pressures and challenges faced by journalists in the fast-paced world of modern news media.

The film also touches on issues of gender and race in the workplace, as well as the dynamics of power and influence in the media industry.

“The Paper” was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and it is regarded as one of the most successful and memorable films about the newspaper industry.

The film’s sharp writing, engaging performances, and fast-paced direction create a thrilling and entertaining portrayal of the world of journalism, while also offering a nuanced and thoughtful examination of its impact on society.

13. The Good Mother (1988)

“The Good Mother” is a 1988 drama film directed by Leonard Nimoy and starring Diane Keaton, Liam Neeson, and Jason Robards.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Sue Miller and tells the story of a divorced mother named Anna Dunlap (Keaton) who becomes romantically involved with a painter named Leo (Neeson).

As Anna and Leo’s relationship deepens, Anna’s ex-husband (Robards) becomes increasingly concerned about Leo’s influence on their daughter, Molly.

When Molly accuses Leo of sexual abuse, Anna is forced to confront her own role in her daughter’s emotional turmoil and the complexities of modern parenthood.

The film was controversial upon its release due to its frank portrayal of sexuality and the emotional complexities of modern family dynamics.

It received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its performances and nuanced approach to the subject matter, while others criticized its pacing and direction.

Despite mixed reviews, “The Good Mother” is often cited as an example of a mature and thought-provoking drama that explores complex themes of love, family, and sexuality.

The film is also notable for its sensitive portrayal of the psychological and emotional toll of child sexual abuse, which was a relatively taboo subject in mainstream cinema at the time of its release.

14. Little Big League (1994)

“Little Big League” is a 1994 American family sports comedy film directed by Andrew Scheinman. The film tells the story of Billy Heywood (Luke Edwards), a 12-year-old boy who inherits ownership of the Minnesota Twins baseball team from his grandfather.

Jason Robards plays Thomas Heywood, Billy’s grandfather and the former owner of the Twins. In the film, Thomas Heywood passes away and leaves the team to Billy in his will.

Despite his young age, Billy is passionate about baseball and uses his newfound authority to become the team’s manager.

With the help of his grandfather’s friends and the team’s players, Billy learns valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork, and leads the Twins on a surprising winning streak.

Robards’ performance in “Little Big League” is relatively brief, but he brings gravitas to the role of Thomas Heywood, who is portrayed as a wise and respected figure in the world of baseball.

His character serves as a mentor to Billy and helps guide him through the challenges of managing a professional sports team.

“Little Big League” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its heartwarming story and likable characters, while others criticized its unrealistic plot and lack of depth.

The film has since become a cult classic among baseball fans and is regarded as a fun and entertaining family film.

15. Lincoln (1992 TV Movie)

“Lincoln” is a 1992 American television movie directed by John Gray and starring Sam Waterston as the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.

The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book “Lincoln” by David Herbert Donald and covers the period of Lincoln’s life from his early years to his assassination.

The movie follows Lincoln’s journey as he rises from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest presidents in American history. The film explores Lincoln’s personal struggles and political battles, including his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery.

“Lincoln” is known for its powerful and moving portrayal of one of America’s most iconic historical figures. Sam Waterston’s performance as Lincoln is widely regarded as one of the most accurate and nuanced portrayals of the president ever captured on screen.

The film was well-received by critics and audiences alike and won numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. It is considered a landmark in the genre of historical dramas and remains a popular and influential depiction of Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy.

16. The Adventures of Huck Finn (1993)

“The Adventures of Huck Finn” is a 1993 American adventure film based on the classic novel “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain.

The movie was directed by Stephen Sommers and stars Elijah Wood as Huck Finn, along with Courtney B. Vance, Robbie Coltrane, and Jason Robards.

The film follows the story of Huck Finn, a young boy from a small town in Missouri, who runs away from home and embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River with a runaway slave named Jim (played by Vance).

Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and adventures, including a group of con artists, a feuding family, and dangerous rapids.

“The Adventures of Huck Finn” is a faithful adaptation of Twain’s novel, and captures the spirit of the original work while also adding some new twists and turns.

The movie features strong performances from its cast, particularly Wood and Vance, who bring depth and nuance to their respective characters.

The film’s stunning cinematography and production design also stand out, as it effectively recreates the setting of the American South during the mid-19th century.

The movie’s music score, composed by Bill Conti, provides an exciting and emotional accompaniment to the action on screen.

Overall, “The Adventures of Huck Finn” is an entertaining and engaging adventure film that appeals to both fans of the original novel and audiences new to the story.

It is a timeless tale of friendship, freedom, and the power of individualism, and has become a beloved classic in its own right.

17. The Trial (1993)

The Trial is a 1993 film directed by David Jones and based on the classic novel of the same name by Franz Kafka. The film stars Kyle MacLachlan as Josef K., a man who is arrested and put on trial for an unspecified crime in a surreal and absurd legal system.

The Trial is known for its dark and surreal tone, which captures the existential themes of Kafka’s work.

The film uses dreamlike imagery and unsettling soundscapes to create a sense of disorientation and paranoia, as Josef K. struggles to understand the charges against him and the bizarre logic of the court.

The film features a talented cast of actors, including Anthony Hopkins, Jason Robards, and Jeanne Moreau, who bring Kafka’s characters to life with haunting and memorable performances.

The Trial received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its faithful adaptation of Kafka’s novel, while others found it overly stylized and inaccessible.

Despite its mixed reception, The Trial remains a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of Kafka’s themes of alienation, bureaucracy, and the absurdity of modern life. It is a must-see for fans of Kafka’s work and for anyone interested in surreal and provocative cinema.

18. A Big Hand for the Little Lady (1966)

“A Big Hand for the Little Lady” is a 1966 American Western comedy-drama film directed by Fielder Cook and starring Henry Fonda, Joanne Woodward, and Jason Robards.

The film tells the story of a poker game in a small Wild West town, where a group of wealthy and experienced players are unexpectedly challenged by a mysterious and unassuming woman.

As the stakes get higher and tensions rise, the woman’s identity and motives are called into question, and the game takes an unexpected turn. The film is known for its clever plot twists, suspenseful pacing, and strong performances by its cast.

Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, “A Big Hand for the Little Lady” has since gained a cult following and is now considered a classic of the Western genre.

The film’s mix of humor, drama, and suspense, as well as its exploration of themes such as greed, deception, and gender roles, have continued to captivate audiences and make it a memorable and entertaining film.

19. Johnny Got His Gun (1971)

“Johnny Got His Gun” is a 1971 American drama war film written and directed by Dalton Trumbo, based on his 1939 novel of the same name.

The film stars Timothy Bottoms as Joe Bonham, a young soldier who has been severely injured during World War I and is left without limbs, eyes, ears, or the ability to speak.

The film explores themes of war, trauma, and the horrors of combat, as it portrays the psychological and physical torment of a soldier who has been left completely isolated and helpless.

Through a series of flashbacks and hallucinations, the film delves into the character’s memories and emotions, revealing the senseless violence and devastation wrought by war.

“Johnny Got His Gun” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the nature of war and the human cost of conflict.

It was praised for its unique and innovative storytelling style, as well as its unflinching portrayal of the brutal realities of war. The film has since become a cult classic and is regarded as one of the most powerful anti-war films ever made.

20. Tender Is the Night (1962)

“Tender Is the Night” is a 1962 drama film directed by Henry King and based on the novel of the same name by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The film stars Jennifer Jones and Jason Robards in the lead roles.

The story follows the lives of American expatriates Dick Diver (Robards), a psychiatrist, and his wife, Nicole (Jones), as they navigate their troubled relationship and the complexities of their social circle on the French Riviera during the 1920s.

The film explores themes of love, infidelity, mental illness, and the disillusionment of the Lost Generation.

Despite the strong source material, the film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its stunning cinematography and performances, while others criticized its uneven pacing and changes to the novel’s narrative structure.

The film was also a commercial disappointment, failing to recoup its production costs.

Despite its mixed critical and commercial reception, “Tender Is the Night” is still considered an important work of American literature and has been adapted for stage, screen, and television numerous times.

The film adaptation is notable for its lush visuals and strong performances, but is also regarded as a missed opportunity to fully capture the depth and complexity of Fitzgerald’s novel.

3 Reasons To Watch Jason Robards Movies

Jason Robards was a legendary American actor who appeared in over 90 films throughout his career. Here are three reasons why you should watch his movies:

Exceptional Acting Skills: Jason Robards was a highly acclaimed actor, known for his outstanding performances in both film and theater.

He was a two-time Academy Award winner for Best Supporting Actor, for his roles in “All the President’s Men” (1976) and “Julia” (1977). His ability to convey complex emotions and bring depth to his characters made him one of the most respected actors of his time.

Variety of Roles: Robards had a diverse career, appearing in a wide range of films, from dramas and thrillers to comedies and westerns.

He also appeared in many notable stage productions, including several plays by Eugene O’Neill. His versatility as an actor allowed him to bring authenticity and depth to each role he played, regardless of the genre.

Historical Significance: Robards was a significant figure in American cinema and theater, working with many notable directors and co-starring with some of the biggest names in the industry.

His work spanned several decades, and his contributions helped shape the cultural landscape of American entertainment. Watching his movies is not only a chance to enjoy great acting but also an opportunity to appreciate the rich history and evolution of American cinema.

Best Jason Robards Movies – Wrap Up

Jason Robards was a legendary American actor who appeared in over 100 films and was widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. He won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in “All the President’s Men” (1976) and “Julia” (1977).

Some of Jason Robards’ best movies include:

“All the President’s Men” (1976) – Robards played Ben Bradlee, the legendary editor of the Washington Post, in this iconic political thriller.

“Julia” (1977) – Robards played Dashiell Hammett in this biographical drama about the relationship between writer Lillian Hellman and her childhood friend, the anti-Nazi activist Julia.

“A Thousand Clowns” (1965) – Robards received critical acclaim for his role as Murray Burns, a nonconformist writer and television personality.

“Magnolia” (1999) – Robards gave a moving performance as Earl Partridge, a dying patriarch struggling to reconcile with his estranged son.

“Long Day’s Journey Into Night” (1962) – Robards was part of an acclaimed ensemble cast in this powerful adaptation of Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

“Once Upon a Time in the West” (1968) – Robards played gambler and outlaw Cheyenne in this classic spaghetti western directed by Sergio Leone.

Overall, Jason Robards’ body of work spans a wide range of genres and styles, and his contributions to American cinema will be remembered for generations to come.