21 Best Julie Andrews Movies: A Melodic Tribute to a Musical Icon

Julie Andrews is an English actress, singer, and author who has had a long and illustrious career in both film and stage.

 Known for her crystal-clear singing voice and charming screen presence, Andrews has starred in some of the most beloved films of all time. Here is an introduction to some of her best movies.

Best Julie Andrews Movies

Let’s jump right into our list of the top Julie Andrews films.

1. Mary Poppins (1964)

“Mary Poppins” is a classic musical fantasy film released in 1964, directed by Robert Stevenson and starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke.

The film is based on the children’s book series by P. L. Travers, and follows the story of a magical nanny, Mary Poppins, who comes to work for the Banks family in London.

The film features classic songs such as “A Spoonful of Sugar”, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”, and “Chim Chim Cher-ee”, and has won numerous awards, including five Academy Awards.

It is widely regarded as a beloved family classic, known for its innovative special effects, catchy songs, and endearing characters.

In the film, Mary Poppins uses her magical abilities to teach the Banks children, Jane and Michael, important lessons about kindness, responsibility, and imagination.

Along the way, she also helps the children’s father, George Banks, to reconnect with his family and find a new sense of joy in his life.

“Mary Poppins” has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with numerous adaptations and spin-offs, including a recent sequel, “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018). It remains a beloved and iconic piece of cinema, cherished by generations of fans.

2. The Americanization of Emily (1964)

“The Americanization of Emily” is a 1964 American comedy-drama directed by Arthur Hiller and written by Paddy Chayefsky.

The movie stars James Garner as Lt. Cmdr. Charles E. Madison, a Navy officer who is assigned to make a propaganda film during World War II, and

Julie Andrews as Emily Barham, a British war widow whom Madison falls in love with. Here are three reasons to watch “The Americanization of Emily”:

Satirical take on war: The movie satirizes the glorification of war and the propaganda machine behind it.

It takes a critical look at the way war is portrayed in the media and questions the traditional heroism associated with soldiers. The movie’s satirical approach adds a unique perspective to the genre of war films.

Chemistry between the lead actors: James Garner and Julie Andrews deliver excellent performances and have great on-screen chemistry.

The banter between the two characters is witty and engaging, and the way their relationship develops throughout the film is both touching and believable.

Strong supporting cast: The movie features a strong supporting cast, including Melvyn Douglas as Adm. William Jessup, the man in charge of the propaganda film project, and James Coburn as Lt. Cmdr. “Bus” Cummings, Madison’s friend and fellow officer.

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The supporting cast adds depth and nuance to the movie’s themes and helps to elevate the overall quality of the film.

Overall, “The Americanization of Emily” is a thought-provoking and engaging movie that provides a unique take on the genre of war films.

With its satirical approach, strong performances, and excellent supporting cast, this movie is definitely worth checking out for anyone who appreciates intelligent and entertaining cinema.

3. The Sound of Music (1965)

“The Sound of Music” is a beloved 1965 musical film directed by Robert Wise and starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. The movie is based on the true story of the von Trapp family, an Austrian musical family that escaped Nazi-occupied Austria during World War II.

In the film, Andrews plays Maria, a free-spirited and aspiring nun who becomes the governess to the seven children of Captain Georg von Trapp (Plummer), a widower and retired naval officer who is struggling to raise his children after the death of his wife.

Maria quickly wins over the children with her warmth and kindness and also captures the heart of Captain von Trapp. However, their happiness is threatened when Austria is taken over by Nazi Germany, and the von Trapp family must flee the country.

“The Sound of Music” was a commercial and critical success, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of all time and winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

The film is also notable for its iconic soundtrack, which includes such classic songs as “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “The Sound of Music.”

Over the years, “The Sound of Music” has become a beloved classic, known for its uplifting message, memorable songs, and charming performances. It continues to be a favorite among audiences of all ages and is considered one of the greatest musical films of all time.

4. Torn Curtain (1966)

“Torn Curtain” is a 1966 thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Paul Newman and Julie Andrews.

The film is about an American scientist named Michael Armstrong (Newman) who defects to East Germany with his fiancee and assistant, Sarah Sherman (Andrews).

However, when Armstrong’s true intentions are revealed to be to steal a secret formula for a new type of rocket propellant, Sherman finds herself caught in the middle of a dangerous game of espionage.

“Torn Curtain” is notable for being one of Hitchcock’s lesser-known films, and one that received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the tense and suspenseful sequences, as well as Newman and Andrews’ performances, while others criticized the film for its slow pacing and lack of Hitchcock’s trademark flair and creativity.

Despite its flaws, “Torn Curtain” is still an interesting and engaging thriller that offers a unique glimpse into the world of Cold War-era espionage.

Hitchcock’s direction, while not as flashy as in some of his other films, is still effective in building tension and suspense, and the performances from Newman and Andrews are strong and compelling. Fans of Hitchcock and Cold War thrillers should definitely give “Torn Curtain” a watch.

5. Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967)

“Thoroughly Modern Millie” is a musical film released in 1967, starring Julie Andrews, Mary Tyler Moore, and Carol Channing. Here are three reasons why you should watch it:

Catchy Music: “Thoroughly Modern Millie” features a number of memorable and upbeat songs that are sure to get stuck in your head. From the title song to “Jimmy” to “Forget About the Boy”, the music is a highlight of the film.

Strong Cast: The film boasts an impressive cast, including Julie Andrews as the titular Millie, Mary Tyler Moore as her friend Dorothy, and Carol Channing as the eccentric Mrs. Meers. Their performances are lively and entertaining, making the film a joy to watch.

Nostalgic Charm: Set in the 1920s, “Thoroughly Modern Millie” captures the spirit and energy of the era, with its flapper dresses, jazz music, and fast-paced action. Watching the film is like taking a trip back in time, and the nostalgia factor is a big part of its appeal.

6. Star! (1968)

Star! is a 1968 musical biopic directed by Robert Wise and starring Julie Andrews in the lead role. The film follows the life and career of legendary stage performer Gertrude Lawrence, from her beginnings as a child actor to her rise to fame on the West End and Broadway.

The film features several lavish musical numbers, including performances of classic songs such as “The Saga of Jenny” and “Burlington Bertie from Bow.

” Andrews’ portrayal of Lawrence was praised for its energy and charisma, and the film’s opulent production design and costume work also garnered critical acclaim.

Despite its strong cast and production values, Star! was a commercial disappointment upon its release and received mixed reviews from critics. However, the film has since developed a cult following among musical theater enthusiasts and remains a beloved entry in the genre.

7. Darling Lili (1970)

“Darling Lili” is a 1970 American musical film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Julie Andrews and Rock Hudson.

The film is set in World War I and follows the story of Lili Smith, a famous British music hall performer who is also a German spy.

She becomes romantically involved with an American pilot who is unaware of her true identity. The film features a number of musical performances by Andrews and was produced on a grand scale with impressive production design and costumes.

Despite its big budget and the star power of Andrews and Hudson, “Darling Lili” was not a commercial success and received mixed reviews from critics.

Some praised the film’s production values and Andrews’ performance, while others found the plot convoluted and the film overlong. Nonetheless, the film has gained a small cult following over the years and is notable for its musical numbers and impressive aerial sequences.

8. The Tamarind Seed (1974)

“The Tamarind Seed” is a romantic drama film released in 1974, directed by Blake Edwards and starring Julie Andrews and Omar Sharif.

The film tells the story of a British civil servant, Judith Farrow (Andrews), who falls in love with a Soviet military attaché, Feodor Sverdlov (Sharif), while on vacation in Barbados.

As their relationship blossoms, the couple finds themselves caught up in a web of political intrigue and espionage, with their respective governments suspicious of their connection.

Despite the obstacles in their way, Judith and Feodor try to navigate their relationship and find a way to be together.

“The Tamarind Seed” was praised for its strong performances from Andrews and Sharif, as well as its suspenseful plot and romantic themes. It also marked a departure from Edwards’ usual comedic fare, showcasing his ability to handle more serious material.

While not as well-known as some of Andrews’ other films, “The Tamarind Seed” has gained a following among fans of romantic dramas and political thrillers. It remains a compelling and engaging film that showcases the talents of its stars and director.

9. The Pink Panther Strikes Again (1976)

“The Pink Panther Strikes Again” is a 1976 comedy film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Peter Sellers as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau. Here are three reasons to watch the movie:

Peter Sellers’ performance: Peter Sellers is widely considered one of the greatest comedic actors of all time, and his portrayal of Inspector Clouseau in “The Pink Panther” series is one of his most iconic roles.

In this movie, Sellers delivers a hilarious performance that showcases his impeccable timing and physical comedy skills.

Classic comedy: “The Pink Panther Strikes Again” is a classic comedy that is full of slapstick humor, witty one-liners, and hilarious sight gags. The movie is a perfect example of the kind of light-hearted entertainment that dominated cinemas in the 1970s.

Memorable characters and scenes: The movie features a number of memorable characters and scenes, including Clouseau’s hilarious attempts to disguise himself and his encounter with a room full of karate experts.

The film also includes a memorable performance by Herbert Lom as Clouseau’s nemesis, Chief Inspector Dreyfus, whose increasing insanity provides much of the movie’s humor.

10. 10 (1979)

“10” is a 1979 romantic comedy film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Dudley Moore, Julie Andrews, and Bo Derek.

The film follows the midlife crisis of a successful but unhappy songwriter named George (Moore) who becomes infatuated with a beautiful young woman named Jenny (Derek) while on vacation in Mexico.

George becomes obsessed with pursuing Jenny, despite the fact that he is already in a committed relationship with his girlfriend, Samantha (Andrews).

As George becomes more and more consumed with his pursuit of Jenny, he must confront his own feelings about aging, love, and happiness.

“10” was a box office success and received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and humor while others criticized the film’s treatment of women and its shallow portrayal of relationships.

However, the film has become a cultural touchstone, popularizing the idea of rating a person’s attractiveness on a scale of 1 to 10 and inspiring numerous parodies and references in popular culture.

11. Little Miss Marker (1980)

“Little Miss Marker” is a 1980 comedy film directed by Walter Bernstein and starring Walter Matthau, Julie Andrews, and Tony Curtis. The film is a remake of a 1934 movie of the same name, which was based on a short story by Damon Runyon.

The story follows a small-time bookie named Sorrowful Jones (Matthau) who finds himself taking care of a little girl named Amanda (played by newcomer Sara Stimson) after her father, a compulsive gambler, leaves her as collateral for a bet.

As Jones struggles to balance his new role as a surrogate father with his shady business dealings, he begins to develop a bond with Amanda and starts to see life in a different way.

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“Little Miss Marker” is a charming and heartwarming comedy that showcases Matthau’s talents as a leading man.

The chemistry between Matthau and Stimson is touching, and the film manages to balance its comedic moments with more poignant scenes that explore themes of family, love, and redemption.

While it may not be as well-known as some of Matthau’s other films, “Little Miss Marker” is definitely worth checking out for fans of classic comedies and heartwarming dramas.

12. Victor/Victoria (1982)

“Victor/Victoria” is a musical comedy film released in 1982, directed by Blake Edwards and starring Julie Andrews, James Garner, and Robert Preston. Here are three reasons why you should watch it:

Talented Cast: The film features a talented cast of actors, singers, and dancers, including the legendary Julie Andrews in the lead role of Victoria, a struggling singer who poses as a male female impersonator named Victor.

James Garner plays the suave nightclub owner who falls for Victoria, while Robert Preston delivers a memorable performance as her flamboyant mentor and confidant.

Catchy Music: “Victor/Victoria” features a number of catchy and memorable musical numbers, including the show-stopping “Le Jazz Hot”, “The Shady Dame from Seville”, and “You and Me”. The music, composed by Henry Mancini, is upbeat and entertaining, and adds to the overall fun and lightheartedness of the film.

Progressive Themes: The film deals with progressive themes such as gender identity and sexuality, and does so in a humorous and light-hearted way.

The story follows Victoria’s journey as she navigates the complex world of gender roles and societal expectations, and ultimately finds love and acceptance for who she truly is. The film was ahead of its time in its approach to these issues, and remains a beloved classic to this day.

13. The Man Who Loved Women (1983)

The Man Who Loved Women is a 1983 comedy-drama film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Burt Reynolds in the lead role.

The film follows the romantic misadventures of David Fowler, a successful sculptor who is obsessed with women and goes through a series of relationships with different women in his life.

The film was a remake of a 1977 French film of the same name, which was directed by François Truffaut.

Edwards’ version was praised for its lighthearted tone and Reynolds’ performance, which was seen as a departure from his typical macho roles. The film also starred Julie Andrews, Kim Basinger, and Marilu Henner, among others.

Despite mixed reviews, The Man Who Loved Women was a moderate box office success, grossing over $10 million in the United States. It remains a notable entry in Edwards’ filmography and Reynolds’ career.

14. That’s Life! (1986)

“That’s Life!” is a 1986 American comedy-drama film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Jack Lemmon and Julie Andrews.

The film follows a wealthy architect named Harvey Fairchild (Lemmon) as he approaches his 60th birthday and reflects on his life, including his strained relationship with his wife Gillian (Andrews) and his troubled son.

The film deals with themes of aging, marriage, and family dynamics, and features a blend of humor and drama. It was somewhat autobiographical for Edwards, who had recently turned 60 at the time of filming.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the chemistry between Lemmon and Andrews and the film’s blend of comedy and drama, while others found the story formulaic and predictable.

Nonetheless, the film has gained a following over the years and is notable for its performances by Lemmon and Andrews, who had previously worked together in the 1965 musical “The Sound of Music”.

15. Duet for One (1986)

“Duet for One” is a British drama film released in 1986, directed by Andrei Konchalovsky and starring Julie Andrews and Alan Bates.

The film is based on a play by Tom Kempinski and tells the story of a world-renowned violinist, Stephanie Anderson (Andrews), who is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and must come to terms with the possibility of losing her ability to play music.

As Stephanie navigates the emotional turmoil of her diagnosis, she begins seeing a psychiatrist, Dr. Louis Feldman (Bates), who helps her confront her fears and rediscover her passion for music.

The two form a deep connection as they explore the psychological and emotional aspects of Stephanie’s illness and her identity as a musician.

“Duet for One” was praised for its sensitive portrayal of the challenges faced by those with chronic illness, as well as the strong performances of its lead actors.

Andrews in particular received acclaim for her nuanced portrayal of a woman struggling to come to terms with a devastating diagnosis. While the film did not perform well at the box office, it

16. A Fine Romance (1991)

“A Fine Romance” is a 1991 British romantic comedy television series starring Judi Dench and Michael Williams. Here are three reasons to watch the show:

The chemistry between Judi Dench and Michael Williams: The series stars real-life couple Judi Dench and Michael Williams, who were married from 1971 until Williams’ death in 2001.

Their on-screen chemistry is palpable and adds an extra layer of authenticity to their characters’ romance.

The humor: “A Fine Romance” is a lighthearted romantic comedy that is full of witty banter and comedic situations. The show’s humor is gentle and charming, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a feel-good show.

The setting: The series is set in the idyllic English countryside and features picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and cozy cottages. The show’s setting adds to its charm and makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

17. Relative Values (2000)

“Relative Values” is a 2000 British comedy film directed by Eric Styles and starring Julie Andrews, Colin Firth, and Sophie Thompson. The film is based on a play by Noel Coward and takes place in the 1950s.

The story follows a British earl, played by Firth, who announces his engagement to a Hollywood actress, played by Jeanne Tripplehorn.

When the actress’s sister, played by Thompson, arrives at the earl’s estate for the wedding, she is shocked to discover that the earl’s mother, played by Andrews, is actually her former maid. As the family tries to keep this scandalous secret under wraps, hijinks and misunderstandings ensue.

“Relative Values” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and the film’s nostalgic charm, while others found the humor to be outdated and the story lacking in substance.

Nevertheless, it remains a popular adaptation of Coward’s play, and is notable for its all-star cast of British actors.

18. The Princess Diaries (2001)

“The Princess Diaries” is a 2001 romantic comedy film directed by Garry Marshall and based on the novel of the same name by Meg Cabot.

The film stars Anne Hathaway as Mia Thermopolis, a socially awkward teenager who discovers that she is the heir to the throne of the fictional European country of Genovia.

The story follows Mia as she navigates the challenges of becoming a princess, with the help of her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi (Julie Andrews). As she learns to act like a princess, Mia also grapples with her feelings for her longtime friend, Michael (Robert Schwartzman).

“The Princess Diaries” is a sweet and charming film that appeals to audiences of all ages. Hathaway shines in her breakout role as the awkward yet endearing Mia, while Andrews is perfectly cast as the regal and wise Queen Clarisse.

The film’s themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the importance of family resonate with viewers, making it a beloved classic. The success of the film led to a sequel, “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement,” in 2004.

19. The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

“The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement” is a romantic comedy film released in 2004, directed by Garry Marshall and starring Anne Hathaway, Julie Andrews, and Chris Pine. Here are three reasons why you should watch it:

Memorable Characters: The film features a cast of memorable characters, including Anne Hathaway’s character, Mia, a young princess who must navigate the challenges of royal life while also finding love and coming into her own as a leader.

Julie Andrews delivers a charming performance as Queen Clarisse, Mia’s grandmother and mentor, while Chris Pine adds some romantic tension as a potential love interest.

Humor and Heart: “The Princess Diaries 2” balances humor and heart in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful. The film delivers plenty of laughs, thanks to the witty banter and comedic situations, but also explores themes such as self-discovery, loyalty, and family bonds.

Fairytale Setting: The film takes place in the picturesque European kingdom of Genovia, which serves as a fairy tale backdrop for the story.

The stunning palaces and landscapes provide a visual feast for viewers, and add to the overall charm and whimsy of the film. The story’s fairy tale elements also make it an enjoyable watch for audiences of all ages.

20. Unconditional Love (2002)

Unconditional Love is a 2002 comedy-drama film directed by P.J. Hogan and starring Kathy Bates, Rupert Everett, and Jonathan Pryce.

The film follows the story of Grace Beasley, a middle-aged housewife whose world is turned upside down when her husband leaves her for a younger woman.

In an effort to find solace, Grace travels to England to attend a concert by her favorite singer, Victor Fox, but he is murdered on stage in front of her.

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Determined to find out who killed Victor, Grace teams up with his former lover, played by Everett, and embarks on a journey that takes them through the world of pop music and into the heart of the investigation.

The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the performances of Bates and Everett but criticizing the uneven tone and inconsistent pacing. Despite this, the film has developed a cult following among fans of quirky, offbeat comedies.

21. Tooth Fairy (I) (2010)

“Tooth Fairy” is a 2010 American comedy-fantasy film directed by Michael Lembeck and starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Derek Thompson, a minor league ice hockey player nicknamed “The Tooth Fairy” due to his penchant for knocking out opposing players’ teeth.

After discouraging a young fan’s belief in the tooth fairy, Thompson is sentenced to a week of hard labor as a real tooth fairy. Alongside his fairy godfather, played by Billy Crystal, Thompson learns the importance of imagination and belief.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of Johnson and Crystal, as well as the film’s heartwarming message, while others criticized the film for being formulaic and predictable. Nonetheless, the film was a box office success, grossing over $112 million worldwide.

3 Reasons To Watch Julie Andrews Movies

Talented Actress: Julie Andrews is a renowned actress who has won numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.

She is known for her exceptional acting skills, her beautiful singing voice, and her ability to portray a wide range of characters on screen.

Whether she is playing a nanny in “Mary Poppins” or a governess in “The Sound of Music,” Andrews brings a depth and sincerity to her performances that captivates audiences.

Classic Films: Julie Andrews has starred in some of the most beloved and iconic movies of all time.

From the family-friendly musicals like “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music” to the more adult-oriented dramas like “Victor/Victoria,” Andrews has showcased her versatility as an actress across a wide range of genres.

These films continue to be popular with audiences of all ages, and watching them is a wonderful way to experience the magic of classic Hollywood cinema.

Timeless Entertainment: Julie Andrews’ movies are timeless and continue to be enjoyed by audiences today.

Her films have been re-released in new formats, such as Blu-ray and digital, which means that new generations can experience her talent and the magic of her movies.

By watching Julie Andrews’ films, you can be transported to a different time and place, and enjoy the timeless entertainment that has captivated audiences for decades

Best Julie Andrews Movies – Wrap Up

Julie Andrews has had a long and successful career in film, theater, and television, and has starred in many beloved movies.

From her breakout role as Mary Poppins to her iconic performance as Maria in “The Sound of Music,” Andrews has proven herself to be a talented actress, singer, and performer. Here are some of the best Julie Andrews movies:

Mary Poppins (1964)

The Sound of Music (1965)

Victor/Victoria (1982)

Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967)

The Princess Diaries (2001)

The Americanization of Emily (1964)

Torn Curtain (1966)

Hawaii (1966)

Darling Lili (1970)

That’s Life! (1986)

These films showcase Andrews’ range and talent as an actress, as well as her beautiful singing voice. She has captured the hearts of audiences around the world with her performances and continues to be a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.