Rita Hayworth was a legendary actress and dancer who starred in numerous films during Hollywood’s Golden Age.

She was known for her beauty, talent, and charisma on screen, and was one of the most iconic actresses of her time.

Best Rita Hayworth Movies

In this list, we’ll take a look at some of her best movies, which showcase her talent as both an actress and a dancer. From musicals to dramas, these films are a testament to her enduring legacy in Hollywood.

1.Gilda (1946)

“Gilda” is a 1946 film noir directed by Charles Vidor. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Gilda Mundson Farrell, a beautiful and enigmatic woman who becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and betrayal in post-World War II Argentina.

The film explores themes of love, lust, and revenge, as Gilda’s relationships with her ex-lover, played by Glenn Ford, and her husband, a powerful casino owner, played by George Macready, become increasingly complex and dangerous.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is iconic, as she portrays a femme fatale with a mysterious past and a sultry singing voice.

The film features some of the most memorable scenes in cinematic history, including Hayworth’s famous “Put the Blame on Mame” musical number. “Gilda” is a classic film noir that showcases Hayworth’s talent as both an actress and a dancer.

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Gilda
  • Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, George Macready (Actors)
  • Charles Vidor (Director)
  • English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

2.Only Angels Have Wings (1939)

“Only Angels Have Wings” is a 1939 adventure-drama film directed by Howard Hawks. Rita Hayworth plays the supporting role of Judy MacPherson, a singer who arrives in a small South American town where she meets a group of pilots who operate a mail and passenger service.

The film follows the dangerous and thrilling adventures of these pilots as they deliver mail and passengers through treacherous mountain terrain.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is charming and engaging, as she portrays a woman who is drawn to the excitement and danger of the pilots’ world.

The film features a talented cast that includes Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, and Thomas Mitchell, and is known for its thrilling aerial sequences and stunning cinematography.

“Only Angels Have Wings” is a classic adventure film that showcases Hayworth’s talent for playing strong and independent female characters.

   

Only Angels Have Wings
  • Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Richard Barthelmess (Actors)
  • Howard Hawks (Director) - Howard Hawks (Producer)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese, Georgian, Chinese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

3.Pal Joey (1957)

“Pal Joey” is a 1957 musical film directed by George Sidney. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Vera Simpson, a wealthy and glamorous widow who becomes involved with a womanizing nightclub singer, played by Frank Sinatra.

The film is based on the Broadway musical of the same name, and features a number of memorable songs and dance sequences.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is sophisticated and alluring, as she portrays a woman who is both glamorous and vulnerable.

The film features a talented cast that includes Kim Novak and Barbara Nichols, and is known for its stylish production design and memorable musical numbers. “Pal Joey” is a classic Hollywood musical that showcases Hayworth’s talent as a dancer and a singer.

If you like Rita Hayworth’s performances, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.

Only Angels Have Wings
  • Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Richard Barthelmess (Actors)
  • Howard Hawks (Director) - Howard Hawks (Producer)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese, Georgian, Chinese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

4.The Lady from Shanghai (1947)

“The Lady from Shanghai” is a 1947 film noir directed by Orson Welles. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Elsa Bannister, the wife of a wealthy and powerful lawyer, played by Welles.

The film follows the twisted and suspenseful plot of the story, as a series of deceptions and betrayals lead to murder and mayhem.

   

Hayworth’s performance in the film is captivating and mysterious, as she portrays a woman with a dark past and hidden motives.

The film features some of the most memorable scenes in cinematic history, including a dramatic shootout in a hall of mirrors. “The Lady from Shanghai” is a classic film noir that showcases Hayworth’s talent for playing complex and intriguing female characters.

The Lady from Shanghai [DVD]
  • Rita Hayworth, Orson Welles, Everett Sloane (Actors)
  • Orson Welles (Director)
  • Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)

5.Tales of Manhattan (1942)

“Tales of Manhattan” is a 1942 anthology film directed by Julien Duvivier. Rita Hayworth plays a small role in one of the film’s segments, “The Follies,” in which she portrays Ethel Halloway, a struggling stage performer who dreams of making it big on Broadway.

The film is divided into several vignettes, each featuring a different story and a different cast. “The Follies” segment is a musical comedy that showcases Hayworth’s talent as a singer and dancer.

The film features a talented cast that includes Charles Boyer, Henry Fonda, and Edward G. Robinson, and is known for its entertaining and lighthearted tone.

“Tales of Manhattan” is a classic Hollywood anthology film that highlights Hayworth’s versatility as an actress and performer.

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Tales of Manhattan
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Charles Boyer, Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers, Henry Fonda, Charles Laughton, Edward G. Robinson, Paul...
  • Julien Duviver (Director) - Edward Beloin, Henry Blankfort, Alan Campbell, Ladislas Fodor, Laszlo...
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

6.You’ll Never Get Rich (1941)

“You’ll Never Get Rich” is a 1941 musical comedy film directed by Sidney Lanfield. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Sheila Winthrop, a dancer who becomes involved with a soldier, played by Fred Astaire, during World War II.

The film follows their romantic and comedic adventures as they navigate their way through a series of misunderstandings and mishaps.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is charming and delightful, as she showcases her talent as a dancer and singer. The film features some of the most memorable musical numbers of the era, including the classic song “Since I Kissed My Baby Goodbye.”

“You’ll Never Get Rich” is a classic Hollywood musical that showcases Hayworth’s talent as a performer and her ability to bring charm and humor to her roles.

   

You'll Never Get Rich
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, John Hubbard (Actors)
  • Sidney Lanfield (Director) - Michael Fessier (Writer) - Samuel Bischoff (Producer)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

7.You Were Never Lovelier (1942)

“You Were Never Lovelier” is a 1942 musical film directed by William A. Seiter. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Maria Acuña, the daughter of a wealthy Argentine businessman who is reluctant to let her marry until her older sister does.

The film follows the romantic and comedic adventures of Maria as she falls in love with a charming American dancer, played by Fred Astaire.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is stunning and captivating, as she showcases her talent as a dancer and singer. The film features some of the most memorable musical numbers of the era, including the classic song “Dearly Beloved.”

“You Were Never Lovelier” is a classic Hollywood musical that showcases Hayworth’s talent as a performer and her ability to bring grace and charm to her roles.

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You Were Never Lovelier
  • Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, Adolphe Menjou (Actors)
  • William A. Seiter (Director) - Louis F. Edelman (Producer)
  • English, Japanese (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

8.Blood and Sand (1941)

“Blood and Sand” is a 1941 romantic drama film directed by Rouben Mamoulian. Rita Hayworth plays the supporting role of Doña Sol, a seductive and manipulative dancer who becomes involved with a young bullfighter, played by Tyrone Power.

The film explores themes of love, ambition, and betrayal, as the bullfighter’s rise to fame becomes increasingly complicated by his relationship with Doña Sol.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is captivating and sensual, as she portrays a woman who is both alluring and dangerous.

The film features stunning cinematography and memorable performances by the entire cast. “Blood and Sand” is a classic Hollywood film that showcases Hayworth’s talent for playing complex and intriguing characters.

Blood and Sand
  • Blood And Sand - DVD Brand New
  • Tyrone Power, Linda Darnell, Rita Hayworth (Actors)
  • Rouben Mamoulian (Director) - Jo Swerling (Writer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

9.Separate Tables (1958)

“Separate Tables” is a 1958 drama film directed by Delbert Mann. Rita Hayworth plays the supporting role of Ann Shankland, a former model who becomes involved with a troubled writer, played by David Niven, in a seaside hotel in England.

The film explores themes of loneliness, love, and redemption, as the characters struggle to find connection and meaning in their lives.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is poignant and nuanced, as she portrays a woman who is seeking love and companionship in a world that often seems indifferent.

The film features a talented ensemble cast that includes Burt Lancaster, Deborah Kerr, and Wendy Hiller, and is known for its sensitive and insightful portrayal of human relationships.

“Separate Tables” is a classic Hollywood drama that showcases Hayworth’s talent as an actress and her ability to bring depth and emotion to her roles.

Separate Tables
  • Rita Hayworth, Deborah Kerr, David Niven (Actors)
  • Delbert Mann (Director) - John Gay (Writer) - Harold Hecht (Producer)
  • French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

10.Cover Girl (1944)

“Cover Girl” is a 1944 musical comedy film directed by Charles Vidor. Rita Hayworth plays the lead role of Rusty Parker, a dancer who dreams of becoming a famous Broadway star.

The film follows her journey as she becomes the cover girl of a popular magazine and is offered a chance to audition for a prestigious Broadway show.

Hayworth’s performance in the film is stunning and charismatic, as she showcases her talent as a dancer and singer.

The film features some of the most memorable musical numbers of the era, including the classic song “Long Ago and Far Away.” “Cover Girl” is a classic Hollywood musical that showcases Hayworth’s talent as a performer and her ability to bring charm and energy to her roles.

   

Cover Girl
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Rita Hayworth, Gene Kelly, Lee Bowman (Actors)
  • Charles Vidor (Director) - Arthur Schwartz (Producer)
  • English, Japanese, Georgian, Chinese, Thai (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

3 Reasons To Watch Rita Hayworth Movies

Iconic Hollywood Star: Rita Hayworth was one of the most famous actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age, known for her beauty, talent, and charisma on screen. She was a sex symbol of her time and her iconic performances have left a lasting impact on the history of cinema.

Versatile Actress: Hayworth had the ability to play a wide range of roles, from musical comedies to film noir dramas. Her performances were always engaging and memorable, and she was known for her ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters.

Talented Dancer and Singer: Hayworth was not only a talented actress, but also a skilled dancer and singer.

She brought grace and energy to her dance numbers and her singing voice was captivating. Her musical films are a true delight to watch and showcase her talent as a triple threat performer.

Best Rita Hayworth Movies – Wrap Up

In conclusion, Rita Hayworth was a legendary actress and dancer who starred in numerous films during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her performances were always captivating and memorable, and she left a lasting impact on the history of cinema.

From film noir dramas to classic musicals, her movies showcased her talent as both an actress and a performer.

“Gilda,” “Only Angels Have Wings,” “Pal Joey,” “The Lady from Shanghai,” “Tales of Manhattan,” “You’ll Never Get Rich,” “You Were Never Lovelier,” “Blood and Sand,” “Separate Tables,” and “Cover Girl” are some of her best films.

Each with their own unique style and charm. If you are a fan of classic Hollywood movies, Rita Hayworth’s films are a must-watch.