27 Films Directed by Billy Wilder
27 titles
- 1
Irma la DouceMovie · 1963 · 147m · Romance, ComedyThis drama centers on the evolving relationship between a police officer and a prostitute. As they grow closer, the officer develops an unusual plan to shield her: he assumes a secret identity as her only client, preventing other men from seeing her.
The film examines love, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity in a world where difficult choices are common. It portrays the protagonists' emotional journey with sensitivity, as they face challenges that test their trust and devotion.
The story reveals a complex network of secrets and lies, highlighting the unexpected power of love. Ultimately, the film explores the lengths people will go to protect those they care about, even if their actions are questioned.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 2
Bad SeedMovie · 1934 · 77mA young man living a carefree life in Paris loses his inheritance and joins a group of roguish car thieves.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.6 - 3
Witness for the ProsecutionMovie · 1957 · 116m · Drama, Mystery, CrimeA respected but unwell lawyer takes on the defense of Leonard Vole in a very public murder trial. The case becomes complicated when Vole's wife, a mysterious figure, becomes a key witness and a prime suspect. The lawyer struggles to understand her calm behavior as he investigates the trial and uncovers a complex network of secrets and deceit. This gripping story explores questions of justice, trust, and human nature, leaving audiences wondering about the truth behind the couple's carefully constructed image.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.2 - 4
The Emperor WaltzMovie · 1948 · 106mIn turn-of-the-century Austria, a bold American salesman of phonographs attempts to secure an endorsement from Emperor Franz Joseph.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.0 - 5
Ace in the HoleMovie · 1951 · 111m · DramaA driven journalist, seeking to revive his career, fixates on the story of a man trapped in a cave. He becomes consumed by the opportunity to boost his profile, prioritizing personal gain over empathy and accurate reporting. The film examines desperation, self-interest, and the price of pursuing success in a competitive news world. This intense drama explores the complexities of human behavior and how it shapes our choices, exposing a darker side of journalism and the lengths people will go to for recognition.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 6
The ApartmentMovie · 1960 · 125m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceBud Baxter, an ambitious but unassuming worker at a top New York insurance firm, feels overlooked in his career. Frustrated by favoritism, he devises a plan: offering his apartment as a secret meeting place for his bosses' affairs. But his seemingly simple scheme quickly becomes complicated when he's drawn into a dangerous secret and must solve a pressing problem left over from one of those meetings. With his job and personal life at risk, Bud must navigate a world of lies and obligations to find his place in the competitive corporate environment.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2 - 7
The Seven Year ItchMovie · 1955 · 104m · Comedy, RomanceA driven publishing executive uses his family's summer vacation to experience carefree bachelor life. He meets a beautiful but somewhat naive woman who lives upstairs, and they are instantly drawn to each other. Their growing connection blurs the lines between friendship and attraction as they explore letting go and discovering new ways to enjoy life, facing the possibility of heartbreak along the way.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 8
Kiss Me, StupidMovie · 1964 · 125m · Comedy, RomanceDino, a charming lounge singer returning from Las Vegas, gets stranded in a small town. He's persuaded to stay overnight by a local mechanic who then arranges for Dino to stay with his songwriting partner, Orville. Sensing Dino’s romantic interest, Orville devises a plan: they hire a local waitress to pretend to be Dino’s wife for the night. This leads to a series of humorous events and explores unexpected connections. Dino discovers that love can blossom in surprising places as he navigates the unusual situation, resulting in a funny and heartwarming story about companionship and finding connection.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 9
The Lost WeekendMovie · 1945 · 101m · DramaDon Birnam, a man struggling with alcoholism, achieves ten days of sobriety. But his cravings don't lessen; they become more intense and persistent. Unable to cope with a planned family weekend, Don descends into a dangerous four-day binge that could be his last chance at redemption or lead to devastating consequences.
The film examines the complexities of addiction and the constant fight of those affected by it. It explores self-destruction and the blurred line between wanting something and needing it desperately. Don's journey reveals the harsh reality of alcoholism, offering a raw look at a man battling his inner demons for survival.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 10
Buddy BuddyMovie · 1981 · 96m · Comedy, CrimeDuring a high-profile Mafia witness trial, two men with vastly different lives find themselves living next door to each other. A retired hitman seeks anonymity in a nearby hotel, observing the trial. His neighbor is struggling with depression and marital problems, considering suicide.
Despite their contrasting worlds, their lives unexpectedly connect. The hitman's detached nature highlights the neighbor's emotional pain, exploring themes of human connection and finding hope amidst violence. As the trial intensifies, both men must confront their pasts to find a path forward. This drama offers a unique look at resilience and the hidden world of organized crime.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 11
One, Two, ThreeMovie · 1961 · 109m · ComedyDuring the Cold War, C.R. MacNamara, a Coca-Cola executive in West Berlin, deals with the challenges of work and his personal life. When tensions between the Soviet Union and the West escalate, MacNamara is assigned to look after Scarlett, his boss's spirited daughter, during her visit. He unexpectedly discovers she is secretly married to a communist.
The film explores loyalty and commitment as MacNamara tries to balance his responsibilities to his company and Scarlett while navigating the political climate of the time. The divide between East and West Berlin creates a strong backdrop, illustrating how differing beliefs affect personal relationships. As MacNamara faces these difficulties, he must examine his own values in this compelling drama.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 12
Five Graves to CairoMovie · 1943 · 96m · War, Thriller, DramaA British soldier, abandoned and hunted by Rommel's troops in the Egyptian desert, finds refuge at a remote, struggling oasis hotel. He assumes the identity of a recently deceased waiter, integrating himself into the lives of the staff and guests. The owner, a kind man facing his own problems, welcomes him, though a French chambermaid is wary, fearing the impending arrival of German forces will endanger them all. The soldier navigates a dangerous game of survival and deception, forming unexpected connections while hiding from the enemy. The story explores themes of identity, loyalty, and human connection against the backdrop of war's harsh realities, following the survivor's journey through perilous circumstances.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 13
Death MillsMovie · 1945 · 22mFirst shown in Nazi-occupied Germany and Austria with a German soundtrack, this documentary was groundbreaking. It was the first to depict the reality of the Nazi extermination camps after liberation: the survivors, the horrific conditions, and the undeniable evidence of mass murder.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5 - 14
The Major and the MinorMovie · 1942 · 100m · Comedy, RomanceSusan Applegate, a New Yorker struggling financially, tries to save money by pretending to be a child on a train. Major Philip Kirby, a military school instructor, takes pity on her and offers to look after her during the trip. As they travel together, Susan opens up to Major Kirby, and an unexpected connection forms between them. The film explores friendship, identity, and strength as Susan learns from this unlikely mentor on a journey she never planned.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 15
The Private Life of Sherlock HolmesMovie · 1970 · 125m · Mystery, Comedy, CrimeSherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson become involved in a puzzling mystery when a woman's husband vanishes without explanation. Their investigation leads them through a series of strange events: six missing people, suspicious monks, a castle in Scotland, rumors of the Loch Ness monster, and secret naval experiments. Holmes and Watson must unravel this complex case to find the truth and solve a difficult problem.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 16
A Foreign AffairMovie · 1948 · 116m · Romance, Comedy, DramaIn post-war Berlin, a US Army Captain is caught in a complex situation involving love, politics, and ethics. He becomes drawn to a former Nazi cafe singer, whose past complicates his life further when a US Congresswoman arrives to examine her connections. The film explores loyalty, personal integrity, and the difficulties of relationships during a city divided. The Captain grapples with his feelings for the singer while dealing with the government investigation, revealing a personal journey through the moral challenges of rebuilding after war.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 17
Sunset BoulevardMovie · 1950 · 110m · DramaA struggling screenwriter decides to help a former silent film star revive her career. He explores her past, uncovering the emotional reasons for her withdrawal from Hollywood, and writes a script to bring her back. This offers him a chance to finally succeed. Their collaboration becomes a heartfelt journey as they both confront their personal problems, rediscover their passions, and navigate the challenges of Hollywood with humor and humanity. They must embrace second chances and explore the power of art in a changing world.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.3 - 18
The Spirit of St. LouisMovie · 1957 · 135m · Adventure, Drama, History"The Spirit of St Louis" tells the story of Charles Lindbergh's challenging journey to become the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1927, from New York to Paris. The film explores the careful planning, design problems, and financial difficulties Lindbergh encountered while building his own plane, also called 'The Spirit of St Louis'. It offers a look at Lindbergh's determination, cleverness, and unwavering commitment as he overcomes technical obstacles and doubts about his ambitious flight. The movie is a story about human strength, innovation, and the enduring desire to explore.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 19
General HospitalMovie · 1974 · 105m · ComedyPort Charles, a vibrant city in upstate New York, is where people's lives unexpectedly intersect. The hospital offers healing and personal growth, while a luxurious hotel hides secrets. The waterfront district, however, holds danger and crime, reminding everyone that life here can be both beautiful and risky. As families, friends, rivals, and lovers face change, they must confront their histories and find happiness in this ever-changing city.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 20
SabrinaMovie · 1954 · 113m · Comedy, Romance, DramaLinus and David Larrabee, brothers who inherit a great fortune, live very different lives. Linus is a driven businessman focused solely on work and lacking in love. David is a carefree playboy, having been married and divorced multiple times.
Sabrina Fairchild, the daughter of their family's chauffeur, returns home from Paris after two years with a newfound confidence. Her presence stirs the Larrabee household; David is drawn to her gentle nature, while Linus unexpectedly falls in love with her.
The film explores how Sabrina’s transformation affects both brothers as she evolves from a shy young woman into someone who captivates them with different kinds of passion.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 21
The Fortune CookieMovie · 1966 · 125m · Comedy, Drama, CrimeA cameraman's life changes when he's injured during a football game. His brother-in-law, a lawyer known for ambulance chasing, files a lawsuit on his behalf, which the cameraman doesn’t appreciate. Things become complicated when the cameraman learns his ex-wife wants to visit him while he recovers. To reconnect with her, he exaggerates his injuries, leading to an emotional journey.
As the story progresses, the cameraman begins to understand the football player who injured him and the pressures of professional sports. This leads to self-reflection and questions the ethics of the lawyers and their clients. The film explores themes of love, deception, and personal growth, examining the intricacies of relationships and ambition.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 22
Double IndemnityMovie · 1944 · 107m · Crime, ThrillerA wealthy Californian woman partners with an insurance agent to plot her husband's murder after he takes out a double indemnity policy – a plan designed to make his death appear accidental and maximize their payout. As they meticulously scheme and execute their plot, they navigate a dangerous world of deceit and betrayal, desperately trying to avoid being caught. The film explores themes of suspense, greed, and passion, revealing the darker side of human nature and keeping audiences captivated until the final moments.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1 - 23
Some Like It HotMovie · 1959 · 123m · Comedy, Romance, CrimeTwo musicians accidentally witness a mob hit and are now in danger. They need a way to escape the gangsters and find a new life. An opportunity arises when they join an all-female band on tour. To stay hidden, the musicians must disguise themselves as women, learning to navigate their new identities. Inside the band, tensions build with romantic feelings and unwanted attention from a persistent admirer. This comedy-drama follows their unpredictable journey as they grapple with identity, love, and survival in a dangerous world.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 24
FedoraMovie · 1978 · 114m · Drama, MysteryA driven young person enters the competitive Hollywood scene and becomes determined to work with a reclusive acting icon. Fueled by ambition and the chance for a breakthrough, the eager individual relentlessly tries to draw the star out of her isolation. The story explores themes of ambition, determination, and the complex relationship between admiration and obsession as their lives become connected. It’s a compelling look at the entertainment industry, where fame has a dark side and even legendary figures must face their inner struggles.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 25
Avanti!Movie · 1972 · 144m · Comedy, RomanceA driven entrepreneur travels to Italy after his influential father dies. While arranging his father's return home, he discovers his father wasn't alone – he was with his longtime mistress. This unexpected truth opens up a deep look at the complicated relationships within the family and the secrets they kept. The experience forces the son to examine his own life and choices as he grapples with a new understanding of his father. It becomes a journey of self-discovery and emotional reckoning.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 26
Stalag 17Movie · 1953 · 120m · Comedy, Drama, WarChristmas brings a somber mood to Stalag 17, where a group of American POWs are held in Germany during World War II. The sergeants of Barracks 4 face a dangerous problem: a security breach within their group. Suspicion grows, and tensions escalate as the prisoners grapple with betrayal and the difficulties of captivity. Forced to confront each other, they struggle to maintain trust while facing a precarious situation. This story explores friendship, loyalty, and resilience in the face of hardship, offering a stark look at life behind enemy lines during wartime.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 27
Love in the AfternoonMovie · 1957 · 130m · Comedy, RomanceAriane, a bright and optimistic music student, wants to explore the world beyond her studies. She becomes interested in Frank Flannagan, a sophisticated older man with a worldly air.
Ariane tries to connect with Frank, who seems very different from her. This leads her on a journey of self-discovery, and both Ariane and Frank challenge their ideas about love. They learn important lessons about relationships and what love truly means.
This romantic comedy explores themes of age gaps, cultural differences, and the challenges of connecting with others. It's a heartwarming story about how love can change us, and the value of new experiences, as seen through Ariane’s experiences with Frank.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
