William Wyler was an American film director known for his versatile style and his ability to craft compelling dramas, epics, and romantic comedies. Here are some of his best films:
“Ben-Hur” (1959): This epic film, starring Charlton Heston, tells the story of a Jewish prince who is betrayed by his Roman friend and seeks revenge. The film won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
“The Best Years of Our Lives” (1946): This powerful drama tells the story of three World War II veterans as they struggle to reintegrate into civilian life.
The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
“Roman Holiday” (1953): This classic romantic comedy stars Audrey Hepburn as a European princess who escapes from her official duties and falls in love with an American journalist, played by Gregory Peck.
The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Hepburn.
“Mrs. Miniver” (1942): This drama, set during World War II, tells the story of an English family as they struggle to cope with the war’s impact on their lives.
The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
“The Heiress” (1949): This period drama stars Olivia de Havilland as a shy, wealthy woman who falls in love with a charming but unscrupulous man.
Best William Wyler Movies
Let’s look at some of the top William Wyler films.
1. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
“The Best Years of Our Lives” is a 1946 American drama directed by William Wyler. The film follows three American servicemen returning home from World War II and their struggles to adjust to civilian life.
The three main characters are played by Fredric March, Dana Andrews, and Harold Russell.
March’s character is a middle-aged banker who struggles to reconnect with his family and adjust to civilian life, while Andrews’ character faces difficulty finding work and dealing with his own personal demons.
Russell’s character, a sailor who lost both of his hands during the war, struggles to adapt to life with his disability.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0O6NClwJhE
The film explores themes of trauma, loss, and the challenges of returning to civilian life after wartime.
It was notable for its realistic and honest portrayal of the struggles faced by returning veterans and their families, and it was praised for its sensitivity and nuance.
“The Best Years of Our Lives” was a critical and commercial success, winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Wyler.
The film continues to be regarded as a classic of American cinema and a powerful meditation on the human cost of war.
2. The Heiress (1949)
“The Heiress” is a 1949 drama film directed by William Wyler, based on the 1880 novel “Washington Square” by Henry James. The film stars Olivia de Havilland, Montgomery Clift, and Ralph Richardson.
The story is set in the mid-19th century and follows Catherine Sloper (de Havilland), a shy and socially awkward young woman who is the heiress to her father’s fortune.
Catherine falls in love with Morris Townsend (Clift), a charming but penniless man who her father (Richardson) strongly disapproves of.
As Catherine and Morris’ relationship deepens, her father becomes increasingly hostile towards Morris, leading Catherine to question whether Morris truly loves her or is only interested in her inheritance.
The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, earning four Academy Awards including Best Actress for de Havilland’s powerful portrayal of Catherine Sloper.
The film is widely regarded as one of the best literary adaptations in Hollywood history, due in no small part to Wyler’s expert direction and the performances of the lead actors.
The film’s themes of love, betrayal, and manipulation still resonate with audiences today and it remains a classic of American cinema.
![The Heiress (1949) [The Criterion Collection] [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51-Q0yEZ+fL.jpg)
3. Wuthering Heights (1939)
“Wuthering Heights” is a 1939 American romantic drama film directed by William Wyler and based on the novel of the same name by Emily Bronte. The film stars Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon as the lead characters, Heathcliff and Cathy, respectively.
The film tells the story of the passionate and tumultuous love affair between Heathcliff, a dark and brooding gypsy boy adopted by a wealthy family, and Cathy, the daughter of the family.
Despite their intense love for each other, their relationship is plagued by class differences, jealousy, and a series of misunderstandings.
The film is notable for its sweeping cinematography and its intense, emotional performances by Olivier and Oberon. It explores themes of love, revenge, and the destructive power of obsession.
The film’s atmospheric and moody tone captures the gothic nature of Bronte’s original novel.
“Wuthering Heights” was a critical and commercial success, receiving eight Academy Award nominations and winning the award for Best Cinematography.
The film is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema and one of the most memorable adaptations of Bronte’s novel.
4. Ben-Hur (1959)
“Ben-Hur” is a 1959 American epic historical drama film directed by William Wyler, starring Charlton Heston in the title role.
The film is based on the 1880 novel “Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ” by Lew Wallace and follows the life of a Jewish prince named Judah Ben-Hur, who is betrayed by his childhood friend Messala (Stephen Boyd) and sentenced to slavery.
Ben-Hur manages to escape and seeks revenge on Messala while also encountering Jesus Christ during his journey.
The film is known for its impressive chariot race sequence, which is considered one of the greatest action sequences in cinema history.
The film was also notable for its large-scale sets and a cast of thousands, as well as for its sweeping score by Miklos Rozsa.
“Ben-Hur” was a commercial and critical success, earning 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Wyler, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
Aside from its technical achievements, “Ben-Hur” is also a powerful story of redemption, forgiveness, and faith, with Heston delivering a remarkable performance as the titular character.
The film’s themes of justice, freedom, and the struggle between the individual and the state continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic of American cinema.
5. The Little Foxes (1941)
“The Little Foxes” is a 1941 American drama film directed by William Wyler, based on the play of the same name by Lillian Hellman. The film stars Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, and Teresa Wright.
The story is set in the South in the early 20th century and follows the scheming Hubbard family, who are determined to increase their wealth and power by any means necessary.
Davis plays Regina Giddens, the ambitious and manipulative matriarch of the family, who seeks to gain control of her husband’s business and fortune.
The film explores themes of greed, power, and the corrupting influence of money, as well as the role of women in a patriarchal society.
Davis delivers a powerful performance as Regina, portraying her as a cold and calculating woman who is willing to sacrifice anything and anyone to achieve her goals.
“The Little Foxes” was a critical and commercial success, receiving nine Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Wyler.
The film is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema and a masterful adaptation of Hellman’s play
6. Detective Story (1951)
“Detective Story” is a 1951 crime drama film directed by William Wyler, based on a play by Sidney Kingsley.
The film stars Kirk Douglas as Detective Jim McLeod, a morally rigid police detective who is obsessed with enforcing the law and bringing criminals to justice.
The film follows McLeod and his colleagues as they interrogate various suspects who are brought into the police station throughout the course of a single day.
As the day progresses, McLeod’s own personal demons begin to surface, including his strained relationship with his wife Mary (Eleanor Parker) and his own past mistakes.
As the interrogation of a notorious abortionist named Karl Schneider (George Macready) gets underway, McLeod’s rigid moral code is put to the test, leading to a powerful and emotionally charged climax.
“Detective Story” was critically acclaimed upon its release and is now regarded as one of the most influential films of the film noir genre.
Wyler’s direction and Douglas’ performance were widely praised, as was the film’s ensemble cast, which includes such notable actors as William Bendix, Cathy O’Donnell, and Lee Grant.
The film’s exploration of morality, justice, and the complexities of human behavior have made it a classic of American cinema.
7. Dead End (1937)
“Dead End” is a 1937 American crime drama film directed by William Wyler.
The film is based on the play of the same name by Sidney Kingsley and features an ensemble cast that includes Sylvia Sidney, Joel McCrea, Humphrey Bogart, and Claire Trevor.
The story is set in the slums of New York City and follows the lives of a group of residents, including a former gangster, a struggling musician, and a socialite who has fallen on hard times.
Their lives intersect in unexpected ways, leading to tragedy and heartbreak.
The film explores themes of poverty, crime, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbZNCgXYURE
It was notable for its gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the slums, as well as for its frank depiction of social and economic inequality.
“Dead End” was a critical and commercial success, and is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema.
The film is notable for its strong performances, especially from Bogart as the disillusioned and bitter gangster, and for Wyler’s expert direction, which skillfully balances the film’s multiple storylines and complex characters.
8. Jezebel (1938)
“Jezebel” is a 1938 American romantic drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Bette Davis, Henry Fonda, and George Brent.
Set in 1852 New Orleans, the film follows the story of Julie Marsden (Davis), a headstrong and willful young woman who defies convention and social norms to get what she wants.
When her fiancé (Brent) objects to her behavior and leaves her, Julie turns to a more proper suitor (Fonda), but their relationship is complicated by her past actions.
The film was notable for its strong and complex female lead character, with Davis delivering a powerful and memorable performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
The film also showcased Wyler’s expert direction and a talented supporting cast that included Fay Bainter, Margaret Lindsay, and Donald Crisp.
“Jezebel” was a commercial and critical success, with its themes of love, independence, and social conformity resonating with audiences of the time.
The film is now regarded as a classic of American cinema, notable for its strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and exploration of the complicated social mores of the Antebellum South.
9. The Collector (1965)
“The Collector” is a 1965 British-American psychological thriller film directed by William Wyler, based on the novel of the same name by John Fowles. The film stars Terence Stamp and Samantha Eggar in the lead roles.
The story follows a young man named Freddie Clegg, who is a socially awkward and reclusive butterfly collector.
He becomes obsessed with a beautiful art student named Miranda Grey, and kidnaps her, holding her captive in his basement.
The film explores themes of obsession, power, and control, as well as the blurred lines between love and manipulation. Stamp delivers a chilling performance as Clegg, portraying him as a sympathetic yet deeply disturbed individual.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqxCAoKgGNo
Eggar is equally impressive as Miranda, capturing her fear, confusion, and attempts to understand her captor’s motivations.
“The Collector” was a critical and commercial success, and was praised for its psychological depth and unsettling atmosphere.
The film won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Eggar.
It remains a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche and the dark impulses that can drive a person to commit unspeakable acts.
10. The Letter (1940)
“The Letter” is a 1940 American film directed by William Wyler, based on the play by W. Somerset Maugham.
The film stars Bette Davis as Leslie Crosbie, a wealthy plantation owner in Malaya who shoots a man dead and claims self-defense.
However, evidence emerges that suggests she may have committed the murder in cold blood, leading to a tense courtroom drama and a shocking revelation.
Davis delivers a mesmerizing and complex performance in the film, showcasing her ability to portray a character torn between her desire for freedom and her moral code.
Wyler’s direction is also notable, particularly in his use of shadow and light to create a moody and atmospheric setting.
“The Letter” was a commercial and critical success upon its release, earning several Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Davis.
The film is now regarded as a classic of film noir, with its exploration of guilt, revenge, and the human condition continuing to resonate with audiences today.
11. Dodsworth (1936)
“Dodsworth” is a 1936 American drama film directed by William Wyler and based on the novel of the same name by Sinclair Lewis.
The film stars Walter Huston, Ruth Chatterton, and Mary Astor in the lead roles.
The story follows Sam Dodsworth, a successful middle-aged businessman who is ready to retire and travel the world with his wife Fran.
However, their plans are derailed when Fran begins to have an affair with a younger man and becomes disillusioned with her marriage and her life.
Sam is forced to confront the reality of his failing marriage and his own sense of purpose in life.
The film explores themes of aging, marriage, and the search for meaning and fulfillment in life.
Huston delivers a powerful performance as Sam, capturing his sense of disappointment and disillusionment with a subtle yet emotionally charged performance.
Chatterton and Astor are also strong in their roles as Fran and Edith, respectively, portraying complex and conflicted characters.
“Dodsworth” was a critical and commercial success, receiving seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Wyler.
The film is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema, and is notable for its mature and nuanced portrayal of marriage and the complexities of human relationships.
12. Mrs. Miniver (1942)
“Mrs. Miniver” is a 1942 American drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Greer Garson, Walter Pidgeon, and Teresa Wright.
The film follows the story of the Miniver family, a middle-class family in England during the early years of World War II.
The family must come to terms with the realities of war, including the impact of bombing raids on their small town and the enlistment of their sons in the military.
The film is notable for its strong message of wartime propaganda and its depiction of the resilience and strength of the British people during the war.
It was also praised for its depiction of the impact of the war on the lives of everyday people and the sacrifices they made in the name of freedom and democracy.
“Mrs. Miniver” was a critical and commercial success, winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Garson.
The film remains a classic of American cinema, with its themes of courage, sacrifice, and the human spirit continuing to resonate with audiences today.
13. These Three (1936)
“These Three” is a 1936 American drama film directed by William Wyler, based on the play “The Children’s Hour” by Lillian Hellman. The film stars Miriam Hopkins, Merle Oberon, and Joel McCrea in the lead roles.
The story follows two women, Martha and Karen, who run a private school for girls in rural New England.
When a malicious student spreads a rumor that the women are involved in a romantic relationship, it sets off a chain of events that threatens to destroy their careers and their personal lives.
Complicating matters is the presence of a handsome doctor, Joe, who is romantically involved with both women.
The film explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the destructive power of rumors and gossip. It was notable for its frank depiction of lesbianism, which was controversial and groundbreaking for its time.
“These Three” was a critical and commercial success, and was praised for its powerful performances and intelligent handling of sensitive subject matter.
The film was remade in 1961 as “The Children’s Hour,” which was more faithful to the original play and which starred Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, and James Garner.
14. The Children’s Hour (1961)
“The Children’s Hour” is a 1961 American drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, and James Garner.
The film is based on the 1934 play of the same name by Lillian Hellman, which centers around a schoolgirl who spreads a rumor that two of her teachers are in a lesbian relationship.
The rumor leads to devastating consequences for the two women, including the loss of their livelihoods and the breakdown of their personal relationships.
Hepburn and MacLaine deliver powerful performances in the film, showcasing the emotional toll that the rumor takes on their characters.
Wyler’s direction is also notable, particularly in his use of close-ups and shadows to create a claustrophobic and intense atmosphere.
“The Children’s Hour” was a critical success upon its release, praised for its exploration of controversial and taboo topics such as homosexuality and the power of rumors.
However, it was also controversial, with some audiences and critics criticizing its depiction of homosexuality as immoral and deviant.
The film remains a significant work of American cinema, notable for its exploration of complex and difficult social issues.
![The Children's Hour [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Fuj8wQjDL.jpg)
15. Roman Holiday (1953)
“Roman Holiday” is a 1953 American romantic comedy film directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in the lead roles.
The film follows a young European princess named Ann who escapes from her royal duties for a day in Rome, where she meets and falls in love with an American journalist named Joe.
The film is notable for its charming and romantic portrayal of the city of Rome, which serves as a backdrop to the unfolding love story.
Hepburn delivers a radiant and enchanting performance as Ann, capturing her sense of wonder and excitement as she experiences the city for the first time.
Peck is equally impressive as Joe, bringing a rugged and cynical charm to his portrayal of the journalist.
“Roman Holiday” was a critical and commercial success, and was praised for its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and lush cinematography.
The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Hepburn, and has since become a beloved classic of American cinema. Its legacy has endured, with many films and TV shows paying homage to its iconic scenes and romantic themes.
16. Carrie (1952)
“Carrie” is a 1952 American drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Jennifer Jones, Laurence Olivier, and Miriam Hopkins.
The film is based on the 1900 novel “Sister Carrie” by Theodore Dreiser and follows the story of a small-town girl who moves to the big city in search of a better life.
However, her pursuit of material wealth leads her down a path of moral corruption and disillusionment.
Jones delivers a powerful and nuanced performance in the film, showcasing her ability to portray a complex and conflicted character.
Wyler’s direction is also notable, particularly in his use of naturalistic lighting and location shooting to create a gritty and realistic depiction of urban life.
“Carrie” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning several Academy Award nominations, including Best Director for Wyler.
The film remains a classic of American cinema, notable for its exploration of themes such as ambition, materialism, and the consequences of one’s choices.
17. Friendly Persuasion (1956)
“Friendly Persuasion” is a 1956 American drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Gary Cooper, Dorothy McGuire, and Anthony Perkins.
The film is based on the novel “The Friendly Persuasion” by Jessamyn West, which is loosely based on the experiences of the author’s Quaker family during the American Civil War.
The film follows the Birdwell family, who are Quakers living in rural Indiana in the 1860s.
The family is torn between their pacifist beliefs and the demands of the Civil War, as they struggle to maintain their way of life while dealing with the violence and turmoil of the conflict.
Cooper delivers a powerful and understated performance as the patriarch of the Birdwell family, portraying a man torn between his beliefs and his duty to his family and his country.
McGuire is also impressive as his wife, who struggles with her own doubts and fears as she tries to keep her family safe.
“Friendly Persuasion” was a critical and commercial success, and was praised for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of the Quaker way of life and the impact of war on civilian populations.
The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Wyler.
18. The Westerner (1940)
“The Westerner” is a 1940 American Western film directed by William Wyler and starring Gary Cooper, Walter Brennan, and Doris Davenport.
The film follows the story of a drifter named Cole Hardin, who becomes embroiled in a land dispute between a cattle rancher and a homesteader.
Hardin finds himself caught between the two sides, with both the rancher and the homesteader seeking his loyalty.
Cooper delivers a strong and charismatic performance in the film, showcasing his ability to play a tough and conflicted character.
Brennan also delivers a standout performance as the eccentric and colorful Judge Roy Bean, who serves as the film’s antagonist.
“The Westerner” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its exploration of complex and morally ambiguous characters in the context of the Western genre.
The film also features innovative cinematography and editing, with Wyler’s use of close-ups and dramatic angles adding to the tension and drama of the story.
The film remains a classic of American cinema, with its themes of justice, loyalty, and the clash between law and lawlessness continuing to resonate with audiences today.
19. The Big Country (1958)
“The Big Country” is a 1958 American Western film directed by William Wyler and starring Gregory Peck, Jean Simmons, Charlton Heston, and Burl Ives.
The film follows the story of a retired sea captain named James McKay, who arrives in the Wild West to marry his fiancée and settle down.
However, he soon finds himself embroiled in a feud between two rival families over water rights, and must navigate a complex web of alliances and rivalries in order to establish peace.
Peck delivers a strong and understated performance as McKay, bringing a sense of moral authority and dignity to his role.
The supporting cast is also notable, with Ives earning an Academy Award for his portrayal of Rufus Hannassey, the ruthless patriarch of one of the feuding families.
“The Big Country” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its sweeping landscapes and epic scope, as well as its exploration of themes such as honor, courage, and the human cost of violence.
The film also features a memorable score by Jerome Moross, with its main theme becoming one of the most iconic in the history of Western cinema.
The film remains a classic of American cinema and a testament to Wyler’s skill as a director.
20. The Desperate Hours (1955)
“The Desperate Hours” is a 1955 American film noir directed by William Wyler and starring Humphrey Bogart, Fredric March, and Martha Scott.
The film is based on a novel and a play of the same name, which were inspired by the true story of a family held hostage by escaped convicts.
The film follows a group of escaped convicts who invade the home of the Hilliard family and hold them hostage in an attempt to evade the police.
Bogart delivers a powerful performance as the ruthless and menacing leader of the convicts, while March is equally impressive as the father of the Hilliard family, who struggles to protect his wife and children from harm.
“The Desperate Hours” is notable for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere, as well as its exploration of themes of family, loyalty, and the thin line between civilization and savagery.
The film was praised for its strong performances, intelligent script, and skilled direction, and is considered one of the best films of the film noir genre.
“The Desperate Hours” was also notable for its use of location shooting, which added a sense of realism and immediacy to the film’s tense and claustrophobic atmosphere.
It remains a gripping and engaging thriller that has stood the test of time and continues to be appreciated by audiences and critics alike.
![The Desperate Hours [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51JJ1+JtyzL.jpg)
21. Funny Girl (1968)
“Funny Girl” is a 1968 American musical film directed by William Wyler and starring Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif.
The film is a biographical musical drama based on the life of Broadway star Fanny Brice, who rose to fame in the early 20th century.
The film follows Fanny Brice, a young Jewish woman from New York who dreams of becoming a famous performer.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, including her unconventional appearance and her tumultuous relationship with her husband, Fanny rises to fame and becomes a beloved star of the stage and screen.
Streisand delivers a dynamic and unforgettable performance as Fanny, showcasing her incredible singing and comedic talents as well as her dramatic range.
Sharif is also impressive as Nick Arnstein, Fanny’s charming and enigmatic love interest.
“Funny Girl” was a critical and commercial success, and was praised for its memorable songs, strong performances, and vibrant cinematography.
The film won several Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Streisand, and has since become a beloved classic of American cinema.
Its legacy has endured, with many films and TV shows paying homage to its iconic songs and powerful performances.
22. The Good Fairy (1935)
“The Good Fairy” is a 1935 American romantic comedy film directed by William Wyler and starring Margaret Sullavan and Herbert Marshall.
The film is based on the 1931 Hungarian play “A jó tündér” by Ferenc Molnár and follows the story of a young woman named Luisa who dreams of finding true love and making a difference in the world.
She takes a job at a local charity organization and uses her wit and charm to help those in need, while also catching the eye of a wealthy lawyer named Max.
Sullavan delivers a delightful performance as Luisa, capturing both her innocence and her cunning as she navigates the complex social dynamics of 1930s Budapest.
Marshall also shines as Max, bringing a sense of sophistication and world-weariness to his role.
“The Good Fairy” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its sparkling wit and whimsical charm.
The film also features stylish art direction and cinematography, with Wyler’s use of shadow and light adding to the dreamlike quality of the story.
The film remains a classic of American cinema, notable for its exploration of themes such as love, idealism, and the power of imagination.
23. Come and Get It (1936)
“Come and Get It” is a 1936 American drama film directed by Howard Hawks and William Wyler, and starring Edward Arnold, Joel McCrea, and Frances Farmer.
The film is based on the novel “Pioneer Women” by Edna Ferber, and tells the story of a lumber tycoon who must choose between his career and his love for a woman who represents his past.
The film follows Barney Glasgow, a ruthless and successful lumber tycoon who returns to his hometown and rekindles his romance with his former love, Lotta Morgan. However, Barney’s ambition and desire for power soon threaten to destroy his relationship with Lotta and tear apart the community he once called home.
“Come and Get It” was praised for its strong performances and nuanced exploration of themes of love, ambition, and the conflict between progress and tradition.
Arnold delivers a powerful performance as the complex and conflicted Barney, while McCrea is equally impressive as his sensitive and idealistic son, who finds himself torn between his father’s world of wealth and power and the simple, honest life of the people he has come to love.
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24. The Gay Deception (1935)
“The Gay Deception” is a 1935 American romantic comedy film directed by William Wyler and starring Francis Lederer and Frances Dee.
The film follows the story of a European prince named Paul who travels to New York City in search of love and adventure.
To avoid being set up with a marriage arranged by his royal family, Paul pretends to be gay and ends up rooming with a struggling actress named Marion, who is initially skeptical of his intentions.
Lederer delivers a charming and witty performance as Paul, while Dee brings a sense of energy and vivacity to her role as Marion.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EERHZ-JJECE
The supporting cast, including such notable actors as Edward Everett Horton and Erik Rhodes, also deliver strong performances.
“The Gay Deception” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its sharp writing and playful humor.
The film also features stylish art direction and cinematography, with Wyler’s use of lighting and camera angles adding to the sense of whimsy and romance.
The film remains a classic of American cinema, notable for its exploration of themes such as identity, self-discovery, and the power of deception.
25. How to Steal a Million (1966)
“How to Steal a Million” is a 1966 heist comedy film directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn and Peter O’Toole.
The film follows a woman who hires a burglar to steal a forged sculpture from a museum, in order to protect her father’s reputation.
Hepburn delivers a charming and engaging performance as Nicole, a stylish and sophisticated Parisian who enlists the help of Simon Dermott, played by O’Toole, a dashing and witty thief, to steal a valuable sculpture that her father had unknowingly lent to a museum.
The film’s intricate plot, clever dialogue, and playful chemistry between the two leads make for a fun and enjoyable heist caper.
The film was praised for its elegant and stylish production design, as well as its witty script and entertaining performances. Hepburn’s stunning costumes, designed by Givenchy, also added to the film’s sense of glamour and sophistication.
“How to Steal a Million” remains a delightful and enjoyable comedy that showcases the talents of its two leads and the masterful direction of Wyler.
The film’s timeless charm and enduring appeal have made it a beloved classic of the genre.
![How to Steal a Million [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/414DiurcYOL.jpg)
3 Characteristics of William Wyler Films
William Wyler was a versatile director who worked in a variety of genres, including dramas, comedies, westerns, and epics. Some of the key characteristics of his films include:
Strong visual style: Wyler was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his use of striking compositions and camera angles to create memorable images.
He often employed deep focus cinematography, allowing the audience to see both the foreground and background of a scene in sharp focus.
Focus on character and performance: Wyler was skilled at eliciting strong performances from his actors, and his films often feature complex, nuanced characters that are brought to life through outstanding acting.
Emphasis on storytelling: Wyler was a master of visual storytelling, using pacing, editing, and camera movement to create a sense of tension, suspense, or emotional impact.
Exploration of social issues: Many of Wyler’s films dealt with important social issues, such as the treatment of veterans (“The Best Years of Our Lives”), anti-Semitism (“The Big Country”), and the role of women in society (“The Heiress”).
Sense of epic scale: Wyler directed several large-scale, epic films, such as “Ben-Hur” and “The Big Country,” that featured lavish production design, sweeping landscapes, and grand set pieces.
3 Reasons Why You Should Watch William Wyler Films
There are several reasons why you should watch films directed by William Wyler, one of the most celebrated and accomplished filmmakers of the Golden Age of Hollywood:
Technical mastery: Wyler was known for his technical precision and attention to detail, and his films are often praised for their flawless camerawork, seamless editing, and stunning visual compositions.
Many of his films, such as “Ben-Hur” and “The Best Years of Our Lives,” have become iconic examples of classic Hollywood filmmaking.
Diverse range of genres: Wyler was a versatile director who worked in a wide range of genres, from sweeping historical epics to intimate character dramas, and his films often explored complex themes of morality, identity, and human relationships.
No matter what your cinematic preferences are, there is likely a Wyler film that will captivate and entertain you.
Masterful storytelling: Wyler was a skilled storyteller who knew how to create compelling characters and intricate plotlines that kept audiences engaged and invested.
His films often dealt with challenging and thought-provoking subject matter, and he had a gift for bringing complex emotional dynamics to the screen in a way that was both poignant and resonant.
Best William Wyler Films – Wrapping Up
William Wyler directed many classic and influential films throughout his career. Here are some of his best films:
“The Best Years of Our Lives” (1946)
“Roman Holiday” (1953)
“Ben-Hur” (1959)
“The Heiress” (1949)
“Mrs. Miniver” (1942)
“The Little Foxes” (1941)
“Funny Girl” (1968)
“Jezebel” (1938)
“Dodsworth” (1936)
“The Big Country” (1958)
These films showcase Wyler’s mastery of the craft of filmmaking and his ability to tell powerful and moving stories. His legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest directors endures to this day.
