Judy Garland's 10 Best Movies, Ranked

Introduction

Judy Garland is one of the most iconic and beloved Golden Age Hollywood stars, known for her work in both musicals and more serious dramas. In her films, she showcased a fantastic range throughout her career, spanning from her childhood up until her death. Though Hollywood's treatment of Garland was tragic and has since come to light, it does not diminish the wonderful work that she did, and the talent that she possessed.

Judy Garland in The Harvey Girls

Born in 1922, Garland came on the scene at the perfect time for singers and performers looking to break into the film industry. Hollywood was gaining power and popularity, and movie stars were becoming household names. Much of her early success came through collaborations with Mickey Rooney, as their onscreen chemistry and youthful vibrancy made audiences fall in love with them. However, it was after starring in The Wizard of Oz that Garland was cemented as a star for the ages.

The Tinman, Dorothy, Scarecrow, and The Lion in The Wizard of Oz

The Early Years

In this section, we will take a look at some of Garland's early films that played a significant role in shaping her career and establishing her as a leading lady in Hollywood.

Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney in Girl Crazy 1943

The Harvey Girls (1946), directed by George Sidney, was an important film for Garland, who struggled with being seen as the leading lady that she was. In her role as Susan, Garland asserts herself as a strong romantic lead and gives a nuanced performance of a woman trying to make it on her own. This film showcased the depth she was capable of in later work.

Judy Garland in The Harvey Girls

Girl Crazy (1943), directed by Norman Taurog, featured Garland and Rooney as a hilarious and compelling couple. It was a fitting end to their collaborations, as Garland displayed patience and maturity in her role, indicating the next steps in her career.

Presenting Lily Mars (1943), also directed by Norman Taurog, marked a transition for Garland as she aged out of her comedic roles alongside Rooney. She was cast in more adult roles and portrayed in a similar light to the romantic female leads of more serious Hollywood films.

Judt Garland in Presenting Lily Mars 1943

The Golden Years

In this section, we will explore some of Garland's most memorable and beloved films from her prime years in Hollywood, showcasing her incredible talent and versatility.

Judy Garland and Gene Kelly in Summer Stock 1950

Summer Stock (1950), directed by Charles Walters, was a collaboration between two of the best Hollywood musical performers, Garland and Gene Kelly. It was an enjoyable fish-out-of-water comedy where Garland comes out of her shell and realizes her potential as a performer.

Easter Parade (1948), also directed by Charles Walters, showcased the power of Garland's girl-next-door image. With a score composed by Irving Berlin, the film provided fun song and dance numbers that elevated the script.

Judy Garland in a green dress in Easter Parade

Judgment At Nuremberg (1961), directed by Stanley Kramer, saw Garland take on a dauntingly serious role in a more minor character than she usually plays. For her performance as Irene Hoffman, a woman facing the harsh realities of the real-life Nuremberg Trials, Garland won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.

Judy Garland speaking into a microphone in Judgment At Nuremberg

The Later Years

In this final section, we will delve into Garland's later work and the films that marked the end of her illustrious career, showcasing her willingness to grapple with the darker aspects of fame and life in Hollywood.

Judy Garland singing in a red dress in I Could Go On Singing

Meet Me In St. Louis (1944), directed by Vincente Minnelli, was the start of a significant love affair in Garland's life. She delivered a memorable performance, and 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas' remains a beloved classic played during holiday times.

Judy Garland singing in Meet Me in St. Louis.

I Could Go On Singing (1963), directed by Ronald Neame, was the last film of Garland's career, where she grappled directly with the cost of fame and the devastating impact it had on her life. As Jenny, the protagonist of the film, Garland essentially played a fictionalized version of herself, concluding her film career with beautiful and tragic musical performances.

The Wizard Of Oz (1939), directed by Victor Flemming, is perhaps Garland's most famous role and one of her earliest. The film incorporated early and innovative use of technicolor, and Garland flourished in her role as Dorothy, the protagonist of the fantastical adventure.

A Star Is Born (1954), directed by George Cukor, saw Garland's tragic death mirror the arc of Norman Maine, her co-star. Her performance was intensely moving as she let her personal life fuel her performance, making A Star Is Born unforgettable.

Judy Garland singing with James Mason in A Star Is Born 1954