John Barrymore was a legendary actor who made his mark on both stage and screen. He was known for his versatile performances, charming personality, and debonair style.
Barrymore appeared in dozens of movies throughout his career, from silent films to talkies, and was recognized as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
Best John Barrymore Movies
We’ll explore some of the best John Barrymore movies that are worth watching for anyone interested in classic cinema or just looking for a great film to enjoy.
1. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920)
“Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is a silent horror film directed by John S. Robertson and released in 1920. The movie stars John Barrymore in the dual role of Dr. Henry Jekyll and Mr. Edward Hyde.
The plot follows Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist who experiments with a potion that unleashes his evil alter ego, Mr. Hyde. As Hyde, Jekyll becomes a violent and dangerous man who terrorizes London and destroys Jekyll’s personal life.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is considered one of his finest, and he was praised for his ability to convey the complex duality of Jekyll and Hyde. The film also features impressive makeup effects and moody cinematography, making it a landmark of the horror genre.
“Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early horror cinema. It has been remade numerous times, but Barrymore’s portrayal of the tormented Dr. Jekyll remains one of the most memorable.
2. Grand Hotel (1932)
“Grand Hotel” is a drama film directed by Edmund Goulding and released in 1932. The movie stars an ensemble cast including John Barrymore, Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford, Wallace Beery, and Lionel Barrymore.
The plot revolves around the guests of the luxurious Grand Hotel in Berlin, each with their own secrets, desires, and motivations. John Barrymore plays the role of Baron Felix von Geigern, a charming but down-on-his-luck thief who becomes embroiled in the affairs of the other guests.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is notable for its nuance and subtlety, as he conveys the desperation and loneliness of his character with understated emotion.
“Grand Hotel” is also notable for its innovative use of an ensemble cast and its exploration of themes such as class, power, and human connection.
The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture. It remains a classic of early Hollywood cinema, showcasing the talents of some of the most iconic stars of the era, including John Barrymore.
3. Dinner at Eight (1933)
“Dinner at Eight” is a comedy-drama film directed by George Cukor and released in 1933. The movie stars an ensemble cast, including John Barrymore, Marie Dressler, Jean Harlow, and Lionel Barrymore.
The plot revolves around a group of wealthy socialites who are invited to a lavish dinner party hosted by a society hostess. John Barrymore plays the role of Larry Renault, a washed-up actor who is struggling to find work and regain his former glory.
As the dinner party approaches, the lives and relationships of the various guests begin to intersect and unravel in unexpected ways.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is notable for its depth and complexity, as he portrays a character who is both charming and tragic. “Dinner at Eight” is also notable for its sharp wit, biting social commentary, and its examination of the decadence and excess of the upper class.
The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic of the Hollywood Golden Age. Barrymore’s performance is often cited as one of the highlights of the film, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his ability to convey both humor and pathos.
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4. The Sea Beast (1926)
“The Sea Beast” is a silent drama film directed by Millard Webb and released in 1926. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Captain Ahab, a seafaring adventurer who becomes obsessed with hunting down a giant whale.
The film is an adaptation of Herman Melville’s classic novel “Moby-Dick,” and it follows Captain Ahab as he leads his crew on a perilous journey to track down the elusive white whale that took his leg in a previous encounter.
Along the way, Ahab’s obsession consumes him and leads to tragedy for his crew and himself.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is powerful and intense, conveying the depth of Ahab’s obsession and the toll it takes on his body and mind. The film also features impressive special effects and stunning cinematography, showcasing the dangers and beauty of life at sea.
“The Sea Beast” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood filmmaking.
Barrymore’s performance as Captain Ahab is often cited as one of his finest, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions and physicality on screen.
5. Don Juan (1926)
“Don Juan” is a silent adventure film directed by Alan Crosland and released in 1926. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Don Juan, a dashing and romantic Spanish nobleman.
The film follows Don Juan as he travels across Europe, seducing women and dueling with rivals. Along the way, he falls in love with a beautiful woman named Adriana, but their romance is threatened by the machinations of Don Juan’s jealous rival.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is swashbuckling and charming, embodying the spirit of the legendary lover Don Juan. The film also features impressive sets, costumes, and action sequences, showcasing the glamor and adventure of the period.
“Don Juan” was a groundbreaking film upon its release, as it was the first feature-length film with synchronized sound effects and a synchronized musical score. It was also a critical and commercial success, helping to establish Barrymore as a major star of the era.
Overall, “Don Juan” is an entertaining and visually stunning film, showcasing the talents of John Barrymore and the innovative techniques of early Hollywood filmmaking.
6. Twentieth Century (1934)
“Twentieth Century” is a screwball comedy film directed by Howard Hawks and released in 1934. The movie stars John Barrymore as Oscar Jaffe, a flamboyant and egotistical Broadway producer who is determined to make his star actress, Lily Garland, a success.
The plot follows Jaffe as he tries to win back Garland’s affection and revive his failing career by producing a new play. Along the way, the two engage in a series of comedic and dramatic confrontations, fueled by their past romantic history and Jaffe’s larger-than-life personality.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is larger-than-life and hilarious, as he delivers rapid-fire dialogue and exaggerated physical comedy. The film also features strong performances by Carole Lombard as Lily Garland and Walter Connolly as Jaffe’s business partner.
“Twentieth Century” is considered a classic example of the screwball comedy genre, with its fast-paced dialogue, madcap situations, and larger-than-life characters. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic of early Hollywood cinema.
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7. Counselor at Law (1933)
“Counselor at Law” is a drama film directed by William Wyler and released in 1933.
The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of George Simon, a successful and respected New York lawyer who is forced to confront his past when a former client threatens to expose a secret from his past.
The plot follows Simon as he navigates the challenges of his personal and professional life, including his relationships with his wife and mistress, his interactions with his clients, and his struggle to keep his past hidden.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is nuanced and complex, as he conveys the conflicting emotions and desires of his character with subtlety and depth. The film also features strong performances by Bebe Daniels as Simon’s wife and Doris Kenyon as his mistress.
“Counselor at Law” is notable for its exploration of themes such as class, identity, and morality, and for its realistic and gritty portrayal of life in Depression-era New York City. It was a critical success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood drama.
8. The Beloved Rogue (1927)
“The Beloved Rogue” is a silent drama film directed by Alan Crosland and released in 1927. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Francois Villon, a swashbuckling poet and thief in medieval France.
The plot follows Villain as he engages in a series of daring heists and romantic escapades, all while trying to avoid the wrath of the king’s soldiers.
Along the way, he falls in love with a beautiful woman named Katherine, but their relationship is threatened by the political turmoil of the time.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is charismatic and dynamic, embodying the spirit of the roguish Villon. The film also features impressive sets, costumes, and action sequences, showcasing the glamor and adventure of the period.
“The Beloved Rogue” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood filmmaking.
Barrymore’s performance as Francois Villon is often cited as one of his finest, showcasing his ability to convey humor, charm, and heroism on screen.
9. Sherlock Holmes (1922)
“Sherlock Holmes” is a silent mystery film directed by Albert Parker and released in 1922. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Sherlock Holmes, the famous detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
The film follows Holmes as he investigates a series of crimes committed by a master criminal named Moriarty. Along the way, he enlists the help of his loyal friend and assistant, Dr. Watson, and engages in a series of thrilling chases and confrontations.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is suave and clever, embodying the quick wit and deductive skills of the iconic detective. The film also features impressive sets, costumes, and special effects, bringing to life the world of Victorian England.
“Sherlock Holmes” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood filmmaking.
Barrymore’s performance as Sherlock Holmes is often cited as one of the best portrayals of the character on screen, and the film helped to establish him as a major star of the era.
10. Svengali (1931)
“Svengali” is a drama-fantasy film directed by Archie Mayo and released in 1931. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Svengali, a hypnotist and musician who becomes obsessed with a young singer named Trilby.
The film follows Svengali as he uses his powers of hypnosis to control Trilby’s mind and voice, turning her into a sensation on the Parisian stage. Along the way, he must confront his own demons and the consequences of his actions.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is haunting and intense, conveying the depth of Svengali’s obsession and the manipulation of Trilby’s talent. The film also features impressive sets, costumes, and special effects, creating a dreamlike and fantastical atmosphere.
“Svengali” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood drama-fantasy.
Barrymore’s performance as Svengali is often cited as one of his most memorable, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions and personalities on screen.
11. Tempest (1928)
“Tempest” is a silent drama film directed by Sam Taylor and released in 1928. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Phillip Waring, a British nobleman who becomes stranded on a desert island and is forced to confront his own morality and mortality.
The film follows Waring as he struggles to survive on the island, facing challenges such as hunger, thirst, and loneliness. Along the way, he confronts his past mistakes and the consequences of his privileged life.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is poignant and introspective, conveying the depth of Waring’s transformation and growth. The film also features impressive cinematography and special effects, creating a vivid and immersive portrayal of the island setting.
“Tempest” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood drama.
Barrymore’s performance as Phillip Waring is often cited as one of his most nuanced and complex, showcasing his ability to convey both emotion and introspection on screen.
12. The Man from Blankley’s (1930)
“The Man from Blankley’s” is a comedy film directed by Alfred E. Green and released in 1930. The movie stars John Barrymore in the lead role of Humphrey van Weyden, a wealthy socialite who becomes shipwrecked and must rely on his own wits to survive.
The film follows van Weyden as he struggles to survive on a raft with a group of sailors, facing challenges such as hunger, thirst, and the threat of attack by a ruthless captain.
Along the way, he confronts his own privilege and learns the value of hard work and determination.
Barrymore’s performance in the film is comedic and charming, as he delivers witty one-liners and physical comedy with ease. The film also features impressive sets and special effects, creating a vivid and immersive portrayal of life on the open sea.
“The Man from Blankley’s” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a classic example of early Hollywood comedy.
Barrymore’s performance as Humphrey van Weyden is often cited as one of his most entertaining, showcasing his ability to convey humor and lightheartedness on screen.
3 Reasons To Watch John Barrymore Movies
Exceptional Acting: John Barrymore was a master of his craft, known for his exceptional range, versatility, and charisma.
He appeared in a variety of genres and was equally adept at comedy, drama, and romance, bringing his unique style and flair to each performance. His performances are worth watching to appreciate the artistry and skill of one of the greatest actors of the early 20th century.
Classic Hollywood: John Barrymore was a major star of the Hollywood Golden Age, appearing in dozens of films throughout the 1920s and 1930s.
His films provide a window into the glamour and sophistication of early Hollywood, showcasing the style, fashion, and entertainment of the era.
Timeless Stories: Many of John Barrymore’s films are adaptations of classic works of literature or drama, such as “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” “Sherlock Holmes,” and “Moby-Dick.”
Watching these films allows viewers to experience timeless stories brought to life on the screen by one of the greatest actors of the era. Even today, these stories continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.
Best John Barrymore Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, John Barrymore was a legendary actor who left an indelible mark on Hollywood and the world of cinema.
His performances in films such as “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” “Grand Hotel,” “Dinner at Eight,” and “Twentieth Century” are considered classics of the Golden Age of Hollywood.
His exceptional talent, charisma, and range made him one of the most beloved and respected actors of his time, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.
Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or romance, John Barrymore’s films offer a glimpse into a bygone era of Hollywood glamor and storytelling.
