All 28 James M Cain Movies
Get ready to dive into the mesmerizing world of James M Cain, the iconic writer turned screenwriter, as we present you with a captivating roundup of his memorable movies. From his suspenseful plots to his gripping storylines, we’ll be discussing the adaptations that have kept movie lovers entranced for years.
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1. She Made Her Bed (1934)
In the circus world, where lions roar and clowns jester, a powerful bond exists between Duke Gordon, a skilled lion-tamer, and his beautiful wife Laura. As Duke attempts to assert control over Laura’s life, he unintentionally emulates his taming techniques on her. The issue is compounded by the fact that Laura is a one-man woman, unwillingly tied to a cheating husband, whom she’s committed not to betray despite her dwindling happiness.
2. They Gave Him a Gun (1937)
“They Gave Him a Gun, “ a classic film from 1937, is a captivating blend of crime, drama, and film-noir that takes the audience on a thrilling ride. It’s the tale of a World War I veteran who, after marrying the girl of his presumed-dead war buddy, finds himself entangled in the grimy world of racketeering. The film stars Academy Award-winner Spencer Tracy, Franchot Tone, and Gladys George, and is directed and produced by the prestigious Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). With a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes, the movie leaves you on the edge of your seat, all the while delivering a story that is as compelling as it is unexpected. The plot, full of twists and turns, is set against the backdrop of the post-World War I era, making the film not only a thrilling crime drama but also a poignant reflection of the societal and psychological impact of war. It serves as a testament to the era’s filmmaking prowess and masterful storytelling. Watching “They Gave Him a Gun” is like stepping back in time, experiencing the golden age of cinema, and getting lost in its rich storytelling. The film is not for the faint of heart, dealing with themes of crime, deceit, and the harsh realities of life. Yet, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates cinema history and is in search of an engaging and unforgettable cinematic experience.
3. Algiers (1938)
“Algiers, “ a romantic drama from 1938, tells the tale of a notorious jewel thief, Pepe Le Moko, played by Charles Boyer, who has managed to escape the grasp of the relentless watchmen in the Casbah of Algiers. Pepe’s life takes a thrilling turn as he encounters a stunning woman named Gina, played by Hedy Lamarr, who captivates his heart and longs for him to break free from his life as a criminal.
4. Blockade (1938)
“Blockade” is a gripping war drama set during the Spanish Civil War that explores the unbreakable spirit of a simple peasant turned soldier. When his rural idyll is threatened by a ruthless enemy force, he is forced to abandon his herd of sheep and take up arms to defend his farm. Amidst the chaos of war, he begins a forbidden love affair with a Russian woman, whose father is involved in espionage. This passionate romance is further complicated by the dangerous game of espionage that surrounds them.
5. When Tomorrow Comes (1939)
“When Tomorrow Comes”, a 1939 drama-romance film, offers a captivating exploration of love, betrayal, and the complexities of relationships. The story unfolds as a concert pianist, unhappily married to a mentally ill woman, finds solace in the arms of a waitress. As the love triangle deepens, the pianist is forced to confront the manipulative and possessive nature of his wife.
6. The Last Turning (1939)
“The Last Turning” is a gripping crime drama set in Marseille, France, in 1939. Under the shadow of a condemned death, Frank, a hobo, finds himself enticed by the dangerous allure of Cora, Nick Marino’s seductive and mercenary wife. Frank, a newcomer to Marseille, is drawn into a web of crime and deceit at Nick’s remote garage-truck stop.
7. Stand Up and Fight (1939)
“Stand Up and Fight, “ set in 1844 Maryland, follows Blake Cantrell, a wealthy plantation owner forced to sell his estate and his people to escape crushing debts. Driven by desperation for work, Cantrell travels to Cumberland and lands a job at Boss Starkey’s stagecoach line, owned by Susan Griffith. This thrilling drama explores themes of friendship, love, and the triumph of human spirit. While working for Boss Starkey, Cantrell finds himself in numerous challenging situations, marked by deception and rivalry involving the stagecoach business and the ownership of the establishment. As if that’s not enough, the film also features the elements of horse and pistol action, adding a layer of exhilarating adventure. The narrative of “Stand Up and Fight” is crafted by the brilliant minds of James M. Cain, Jane Murfin, and Harvey Fergusson. Directed by W. S. Van Dyke, the movie stars renowned actors Wallace Beery, Robert Taylor, and Florence Rice. “Stand Up and Fight” is brought to life by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), further adding to the intriguing aspects of the film. With a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes, this drama offers a blend of historical backdrop, romance, and drama, making it a timeless cinematic experience. The film has an IMDb rating of 6.4 and is praised for its engaging plot and strong performances by the lead actors. “Stand Up and Fight” is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas, romantic films, and thrilling narratives. It stands tall in a sea of similar films, as well as in its own right. Do not miss this exciting journey that begins in the heart of Maryland, and takes you through thrilling action, compelling storylines, and emotional depth. “Stand Up and Fight” — where history and love ride together, ready for a stand-up battle! So put on your seatbelts, and prepare for a roller coaster ride in “Stand Up and Fight. “
8. Wife, Husband and Friend (1939)
Step into the whirlwind of love and comedy in Wife, Husband and Friend, a delightful film from 1939. Experience laughter, romance, and spectacular singing performances as the characters navigate through the twists and turns of life. This timeless classic, starring Loretta Young, Warner Baxter, and Binnie Barnes, follows a woman’s journey to become a great singer, while her husband explores opera.
9. The Shanghai Gesture (1941)
“The Shanghai Gesture” is a thrilling crime drama set in the bustling city of Shanghai, where the enigmatic ‘Mother’ Gin Sling runs a high-stakes gambling house catering to the elite. However, her operation faces a major threat when influential land developer Sir Guy Charteris decides to shut her down.
10. Obsession (1943)
“Obsession” is a gripping crime drama that delves into the intense passion and dark desires of a trio of characters. Directed by Luchino Visconti, the film explores the intriguing story of Gino, a wanderer, who becomes involved in a twisted affair with inn owner Giovanna, intending to rid themselves of her older husband. As sinister secrets unfold, the story takes on a chilling and unexpected turn.
11. Double Indemnity (1944)
Double Indemnity is a suspenseful 1944 crime drama film directed by Billy Wilder. The story revolves around an insurance representative (Fred MacMurray), who gets seduced by an alluring housewife (Barbara Stanwyck) into a scheme of insurance fraud and murder. However, the plan arouses the suspicion of his colleague, an insurance investigator (Edward G. Robinson). This movie, based on a novella by James M. Cain, follows the characters as they navigate the dangerous world of crime and deception in a tale that won two Oscars.
12. Gypsy Wildcat (1944)
In the dazzling 1944 classic, “Gypsy Wildcat, “ a ruthless baron imposes his iron grip on the oppressed Gypsies, whose captivating beauty, Carla, is intrigued by the enigmatic stranger on a pristine white horse. Set amidst a world of grape quaffing villagers and revenge-seeking Gypsies, this enthralling tale of action, drama, and romance unfolds as the baron relentlessly pursues his obsession with the captivating Gypsy woman.
13. Mildred Pierce (1945)
Mildred Pierce is a gripping 1945 crime drama film directed by Michael Curtiz. The movie, set in the backdrop of a dysfunctional marriage, tells the story of Mildred Pierce, a hard-working mother, who is on the verge of disaster. After divorcing her husband, Mildred starts a successful restaurant business to support her ungrateful daughter, Veda.
14. The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)
In “The Postman Always Rings Twice, “ a sultry, married woman named Cora (Lana Turner) finds herself enamored with a rugged hobo named Frank (John Garfield) after he arrives in her small town. Despite the risks, they fall deeper in love and begin to scheme against her husband, Nick (Cecil Kellaway). When the couple decides to murder Nick, the passion they share turns into a dangerous, fatal attraction. This gripping, Film-Noir thriller is based on the novel by James M. Cain and directed by Tay Garnett, featuring an alluring plot that unfolds with suspense and intrigue. With a 7.4 IMDb rating and a cast that includes Hollywood legends, “The Postman Always Rings Twice” is a classic crime drama that delivers both style and substance.
15. Out of the Past (1947)
Out of the Past, a gripping crime-drama film, stars Robert Mitchum as Jeff Bailey, an ex-detective who is now the owner of a gas station in a quiet small town. However, his peaceful life comes to an end when his old boss, Whit Sterling, who he thought had fled, returns and hires him for a dangerous new mission. Swept away by Jeff’s romantic involvement with Kathie, played by Jane Greer, Whit framed him for a murder he didn’t commit.
16. Everybody Does It (1949)
“Everybody Does It” is a charming 1949 comedy-musical film that tells the story of Leonard Borland, a man who is fiercely protective of his wealthy wife. But when their finances start to dwindle, Leonard discovers his wife’s passion for opera and supports her in chasing her dreams. While organizing a concert for her, he crosses paths with the glamorous Cecil Carver, who, intrigued by Leonard’s hidden talent, encourages him to use his voice for her own purposes.
17. Serenade (1956)
Serenade is a captivating drama set in the world of Italian opera, featuring a young vineyard worker turned opera singer with a talented voice. Starring Mario Lanza and Joan Fontaine, this musical romance follows Damon Vincenti as he navigates a turbulent relationship with Kendall Hale, a wealthy and manipulative society girl with a penchant for using and abandoning aspiring artists. With a powerful and alluring soundtrack, Serenade showcases the high stakes of ambition and the perils of toxic love, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
18. Slightly Scarlet (1956)
“Slightly Scarlet” is a riveting 1956 crime drama and film-noir that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. John Payne stars as the urban wheeler-dealer who gets entangled in a web of organized crime, corrupt city politics, and graft, all while pursuing his forbidden love for the fiancée of the newly elected mayor, played by Rhonda Fleming. This thrilling tale, based on a novel, is full of seduction, intrigue, and dark elements, set against the backdrop of a corrupt city.
19. Interlude (1957)
Experience the enchanting drama of “Interlude, “ released in 1957, directed by the talented Douglas Sirk. The film centers around Helen Banning, a young woman seeking adventure and love. After traveling to Munich to broaden her horizons, she stumbles upon a captivating symphony conductor, Tonio Fischer.
20. Konto ausgeglichen (1959)
“Konto ausgeglichen” tells the gripping story of Jacobi, a newly appointed manager at a West German bank branch. Tension unfolds as he uncovers evidence that his hospitalized predecessor, Brand, has embezzled a substantial sum from customer accounts.
21. Yu hai qing mo (1967)
“Murder, mystery, and a tantalizing cast of characters come together in the 1967 thriller, Yu hai qing mo. Directed by the legendary Lo Wei, this film is a captivating blend of classic mystery elements and a sophisticated, exotic atmosphere.
22. Interlude (1968)
Experience an intoxicating blend of drama, romance, and intrigue in the 1968 film, “Interlude. “ This captivating masterpiece, starring Oskar Werner and Barbara Ferris, tells the story of a renowned conductor who stumbles upon an unexpected break from his career after candidly answering a pretty young reporter’s questions. The film takes on a life of its own as the conductor pursues a passionate affair with the reporter, unraveling a complex web of contrasting age, background, and desires. As they navigate the twists and turns, the couple faces mounting differences that test the limits of their relationship. Adapted from James M. Cain’s novel, “Interlude” stars Oskar Werner as the charismatic conductor and Barbara Ferris as the alluring young reporter. The film is supported by a brilliant ensemble cast, including Virginia Maskell, Kevin Billington as the director, and screenplays by respected writers Lee Langley and Hugh Leonard. Rated as an M/PG film and running for an 1h 53min, “Interlude” offers a unique blend of storytelling, stunning cinematography, and gripping performances that will keep audiences engaged until the end. “Interlude” is a must-see for fans of drama and romance, as well as viewers looking to immerse themselves in a sophisticated, compelling film experience.
23. Double Indemnity (1973)
Double Indemnity (1973) is an enthralling crime thriller following the sinister plot of a woman who, in an attempt to get her hands on a substantial insurance policy, lures an insurance investigator into committing a cold-blooded murder. Unknowingly, this man’s boss has begun to investigate the possible murder. Despite the intriguing setup, this movie is rated TV-PG due to its mature themes and violence. Double Indemnity is directed by Jack Smight and written by Steven Bochco, Billy Wilder, and Raymond Chandler. A cast that includes Richard Crenna, Lee J. Cobb, and Robert Webber brings this gripping drama to life. The film’s crime, romance, and drama genres make it a captivating watch, while the similar films on the list keep viewers enthralled. Though the movie has a modest IMDb rating of 4.6 with 608.0 votes, this 1973 production remains a solid addition to the crime genre.
24. Butterfly (1981)
In the gripping and raw drama, Butterfly, we are taken back to 1937 Nevada where the mysterious and captivating Kady returns to her estranged father, Jess Tyler. Kady is a determined teenager who will stop at nothing to claim her father’s silver mine. After long separation, they are united once again as father and daughter. As their reunion unfolds, the intense bond between them becomes a complex web of emotions, love, and desire, which transcends the boundaries of seduction, incest, and nude scenes. The film masterfully explores their explosive relationship that leaves a haunting and unforgettable impression. Directed by Matt Cimber and written by James M. Cain, John F. Goff, and Matt Cimber, Butterfly delves into the intricate and provocative narrative of a father-daughter relationship that is pushed to its limits. Starring Stacy Keach, Pia Zadora, and the legendary Orson Welles, this drama unfolds on a stage of crime and drama that highlights the darker side of human desire. Butterfly, with its provocative nature and controversial themes, has earned its place as a classic film worthy of accolades and recognition. A timeless tale of love, sacrifice, and the darkest allure of the human soul, this movie is not for the faint-hearted but will leave a lasting impression that captivates viewers to the core.
25. The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981)
“The Postman Always Rings Twice” (1981), directed by Bob Rafelson and starring Jack Nicholson and Jessica Lange, is a gripping neo noir crime drama filled with passion, secrecy, and deceit. Set in the sultry 1930s, the story follows a reckless drifter’s torrid affair with the sensual wife of a diner owner and their twisted plot to murder her husband. Amidst a backdrop of rough sex, male nudity, and intense emotional complexity, this captivating remake of the Italian classic will keep you on the edge of your seat. The movie has received one award and two nominations, with notable contributions from writer David Mamet and writer James M. Cain. Prepare for a sultry journey through desire, deceit, and devastating consequences.
26. Girl in the Cadillac (1995)
Get ready for a wild ride in “Girl in the Cadillac”! When a rebellious and adventurous teenager named Mandy buys a ticket out of her small town, she sets out on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery. As the young girl travels through the countryside, she stumbles upon a bank robbery and gets entangled in a dangerous web of crime. With each twist and turn, Mandy finds herself confronting the harsh realities of a world beyond her small-town existence. Fueled by her insatiable thirst for life, Mandy embarks on a thrilling adventure that pushes her to her limits. Along the way, she encounters a cast of colorful characters who challenge her beliefs and help her grow. As Mandy learns more about the harsh realities of life, she must navigate her path, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the law. “Girl in the Cadillac” (1995) is a gripping tale of self-discovery, adventure, and crime. Under the direction of Lucas Platt, with a screenplay by James M. Cain and John Warren, viewers can expect a thrilling and intense experience. Starring Erika Eleniak, William McNamara, and Michael Lerner, the film is a must-see for those who enjoy suspenseful and coming-of-age stories. So, buckle up for a thrilling ride through the heartland as Mandy takes off in her Cadillac, ready to experience the world beyond her small-town borders.
27. Passion (1998)
“Passion, “ the dark Hungarian adaptation of James M. Cain’s famous novel, The Postman Always Rings Twice, presents a chilling tale of forbidden love and deadly desires. The film follows the story of a wife and her illicit lover, who join forces to plot the murder of her older, wealthy husband.
28. Buai laju-laju (2004)
“Buai Laju-Laju” is a compelling 2004 Malay crime, drama, and romance film directed by U-Wei Haji Saari. The story revolves around Zaiton, who manipulates a drifter named Amran into committing a heinous crime for her benefit. Zaiton convinces Amran to murder her elderly husband, Ibrahim, so she can acquire his money and land. This intriguing narrative dives deep into themes of greed, murder, and love triangles.
