59 Films from the 1939 Academy Awards
59 titles
- 1
Angels with Dirty FacesMovie · 1938 · 97m · Crime, DramaRocky Sullivan and Jerry Connelly's friendship is tested as they grow up in a poor neighborhood and choose very different paths. Rocky becomes a powerful gangster, while Jerry becomes a priest, dedicating himself to helping the people in their old neighborhood. Their bond is challenged by their choices, but it ultimately holds strong, showing how loyalty endures in a place where opportunities are scarce.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 2
AlgiersMovie · 1938 · 96m · Drama, Mystery, RomanceIn the maze-like Casbah of Algiers lives Pepe Le Moko, a skilled thief who has avoided the French police. He establishes himself in the city, but the relentless Inspector Slimane keeps trying to catch him.
Pepe's life changes when he meets Gaby, a captivating woman who sparks a passionate and dangerous connection. This new relationship creates problems, especially with Ines, another local woman who is drawn to Pepe.
Against a backdrop of mystery and danger, the story explores themes of identity, loyalty, and love, showing how far Pepe will go to protect his freedom and the people he cares about in a world full of conflict.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2 - 3
The Adventures of Tom SawyerMovie · 1938 · 91mTom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn embark on exciting escapades along the Mississippi River. They imagine themselves as pirates, stage their own funeral, and unexpectedly witness a murder.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 4
There Goes My HeartMovie · 1938 · 83mA wealthy woman takes a job working as a sales associate in a department store.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.1 - 5
Of Human HeartsMovie · 1938 · 103mSet against the backdrop of pre- and Civil War America, this is a story about family. Ethan Wilkins, a humble and principled man, dedicates himself to spiritual guidance, while his son Jason aspires to a medical career, focused on helping people in the physical world. It's a deeply affecting tale exploring the pursuit of excellence, the complexities of a father-son relationship marked by conflict, and the enduring power of a mother's love.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.8 - 6
MannequinMovie · 1938 · 95mJessie, a young woman from a working-class background, hopes to build a better future by marrying her boyfriend. However, she soon discovers that he is no improvement over the circumstances she tried to escape.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9 - 7
Brave Little TailorMovie · 1938 · 9m · Animation, Fantasy, ComedyMickey Mouse is caught in an unexpected conflict when a danger threatens his city. After jokingly saying he swatted seven flies at once, the citizens believe he can defeat giants too. As the city faces peril, Mickey is unexpectedly asked to save them from destruction. He must overcome his doubts and prove himself in a major battle against a huge enemy. This animated story blends exciting action with humor and a sense of humility as Mickey deals with the responsibility of being a hero.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 8
The Young in HeartMovie · 1938 · 90mA family who specialize in scams targets a wealthy, isolated elderly woman known as Miss Fortune.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 9
Hunky and SpunkyMovie · 1938 · 9mThis short film portrays a mother who imparts essential life skills to her son. Later, the young donkey he works for is injured by a man, and the mother intervenes to save it. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with the UCLA Film and Television Archive in 2013.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.8 - 10
Grand IllusionMovie · 1937 · 114m · Drama, History, WarDuring World War I, two French soldiers, Captain de Boeldieu and Lieutenant Maréchal, form an unexpected bond while imprisoned by the Germans, despite their different social classes. As they are moved to a heavily guarded fortress, they work together to plan a daring escape, all while being watched by the aristocratic German officer von Rauffenstein. The story explores the complexities of duty and loyalty as de Boeldieu develops a surprising connection with his captor, questioning who truly one's allegiances lie with during wartime. The film is a compelling story of survival and friendship amidst the harsh realities of confinement, centered on their intricate plan to break free.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 11
The Great HeartMovie · 1938 · 11mThis short film recounts the true story of Father Damien, a Belgian priest who dedicated his life to the lepers isolated on the Hawaiian island of Molokai. He endured a painful existence to offer them hope and spiritual solace.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 12
Timber ToppersMovie · 1938 · 10mTimber Toppers is a 1938 American short film released by 20th Century Fox. The film received an Academy Award nomination in 1939 for Best Live Action Short Film, One-Reel at the 11th Academy Awards.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 13
Spawn of the NorthMovie · 1938 · 110mA bond between two Alaskan salmon fishermen is tested when one chooses to work with Russian fish pirates, while the other joins forces with local vigilantes.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.7 - 14
Three ComradesMovie · 1938 · 98mThis is a love story about three young German soldiers in the aftermath of World War I. Their bond deepens as they share their affection for a woman who is succumbing to tuberculosis.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 15
HolidayMovie · 1938 · 97m · Comedy, Romance, DramaJohnny Case, a carefree financial whiz, falls for Julia Seton, the wealthy daughter of a powerful millionaire. They decide to enjoy their romance with a holiday before marriage. But Johnny's plans change when Julia suggests he spend the time learning about her father's banking business. As their relationship faces challenges, they must balance love and ambition, discovering important truths about trust, compromise, and themselves.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 16
Test PilotMovie · 1938 · 118m · Drama, Romance, AdventureJim, a daring but troubled test pilot, faces intense pressure in the demanding world of aviation. His wife Ann and friend Gunner try to support him as he confronts constant danger and challenges. The film examines addiction, friendship, and the difference between courage and recklessness, focusing on Jim's difficult experiences and choices while striving for progress and speed. This intense drama portrays a man's struggle to reconcile his passion with the risks of his dangerous job.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 17
The Big Broadcast of 1938Movie · 1938 · 94mThe Bellows family creates hilarious chaos aboard a ship, all while enjoying musical performances broadcast over the radio.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.3 - 18
Boys TownMovie · 1938 · 96m · DramaFather Flanagan, a dedicated priest, runs Boys Town, a special center dedicated to helping troubled boys become good men. Instead of seeing them as criminals, he encourages them to improve themselves. But Whitey Marsh, a quick-witted thief with a difficult past – he's the brother of someone in prison – proves a tough challenge for Father Flanagan’s approach. The film follows their complicated but hopeful relationship as they face hard choices and personal struggles, exploring forgiveness, determination, and the possibility of change.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 19
Snow White and the Seven DwarfsMovie · 1938 · 83m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilySnow White is forced to flee her kingdom after her stepmother, the Queen, becomes jealous of her beauty. She finds refuge in a cottage belonging to seven dwarfs. The Queen, determined to remain the fairest, sees Snow White as a threat and sends her to be harmed. This story follows Snow White and the dwarfs as they work together to escape the Queen's dangerous plots, discovering the strength of friendship and love in the face of hardship.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 20
The Adventures of Robin HoodMovie · 1938 · 102m · Adventure, Romance, HistoryThis story reimagines the classic tale of Robin Hood, portraying him as a courageous champion fighting for what's right against the cruel Sir Guy of Gisbourne. Set in medieval England, Robin tirelessly works to bring justice amidst political problems and corruption. As his heroic deeds become famous, he becomes interested in Lady Marian, who struggles with her obligations and feelings. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the desire for a fairer world as Robin navigates a complex web of friendships and treachery.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 21
The Lady ObjectsMovie · 1938 · 66mA star college football player and his girlfriend tie the knot. Their marriage struggles as her legal career takes off while his architecture ambitions stall. They divorce, and he starts singing in a nightclub for extra income. When he's wrongly accused of murder, his ex-wife must step up to defend him in court.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.4 - 22
They're Always CaughtMovie · 1938 · 22mThis episode of Crime Does Not Pay highlights the crucial work of the crime laboratory in solving crimes, demonstrating how seemingly insignificant details can prove to be key clues.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9 - 23
The Cowboy and the LadyMovie · 1938 · 91mAfter a lifetime of isolation, Mary Smith impulsively leaves home while her father is campaigning for president. She goes to the family estate in West Palm Beach and unexpectedly develops a romantic relationship with Stretch Willoughby, a down-to-earth cowboy. This relationship clashes with the polished image her father wants to project, leaving Mary with a difficult decision to make.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 24
Four DaughtersMovie · 1938 · 90m · Drama, Music, RomanceThe Lemp family consists of Adam Lemp, a musician, and his four daughters: Emma, Ann, Kay, and Thea. Each daughter is in love with someone perfect for her. This harmony is disrupted by the arrival of Mickey Borden, a cynical composer. His presence creates romantic complications that test the family's bond. As the daughters deal with these new relationships and Mickey’s unpredictable behavior, they rediscover strength in their family and musical history.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 25
Breaking the IceMovie · 1938 · 81mTommy Martin and his mother, Martha, say goodbye to Henry and Reuben Johnson as the Johnsons leave for their hometown of Goshen. Earlier, they visited the Decker family's Mennonite farm, where Tommy and Martha were staying. The film follows their efforts to gather enough money for train fare and Tommy's attempt to clear his name after a misunderstanding.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.4 - 26
Under Western StarsMovie · 1938 · 65mRoy wins a seat in Congress with the promise of bringing water to the ranchers in his district. In Washington, he discovers he needs support from a powerful congressman and persuades him to visit the area. When the congressman is skeptical at first, Roy orchestrates a situation that leaves the inspection team without water, revealing the harsh realities of the situation.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.6 - 27
CarefreeMovie · 1938 · 83m · Music, Comedy, RomanceDr. Tony Flagg’s friend Steven is having relationship problems with his fiancée Amanda. Hoping to improve things, Steven suggests Amanda visit Tony for help. Their attempt to fix their relationship quickly becomes complicated by misunderstandings, and Amanda begins to develop feelings for Tony. Desperate to correct this, Tony uses hypnosis to make Amanda love Steven again. But the manipulative tactic backfires, creating a tangled mess of emotions and unforeseen consequences.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 28
JezebelMovie · 1938 · 103mIn 1850s Louisiana, a headstrong Southern woman's impulsive nature puts everyone around her in danger.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 29
PygmalionMovie · 1938 · 96m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceA linguistics professor, Henry Higgins, makes a bold bet with Colonel George Pickering: he can transform a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a refined lady in six months of intensive training. With the agreement of Eliza's father, Alfred, she moves in with Higgins to begin her lessons in speech and manners.
The story examines social class, personal development, and self-discovery through the unusual bond between teacher and student. As Eliza adapts to a new life and undergoes a remarkable change, both she and Higgins unexpectedly change as well.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 30
You Can't Take It with YouMovie · 1938 · 126m · Comedy, RomanceIn a society sharply divided by class, Alice, the most sensible of the Sycamore family, falls for Tony Kirby, the charming son of a wealthy banker. Their romance faces opposition from Tony's privileged parents. To overcome the divide between their worlds, Alice's unconventional family organizes an elaborate dinner to impress the Kirbys. But as the evening progresses, the Sycamores’ unique traits are exposed, revealing a surprising side to this story of love and social standing.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 31
If I Were KingMovie · 1938 · 101mKing Louis XI disguises himself as an ordinary person in Paris to uncover potential enemies within his realm. While in a tavern, he hears the bold poet François Villon arguing that he would make a better king. Both irritated and fascinated, the King appoints Villon as Grand Constable. Villon begins his duties and becomes enamored with a beautiful lady-in-waiting, but is forced to flee for his life when the King suddenly turns against him.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 32
White BannersMovie · 1938 · 92mIn 1919, a homeless woman named Hannah enters the lives of the compassionate Ward family in a small Indiana town. She becomes a helpful cook and housekeeper, living with them. However, Hannah is primarily interested in getting to know their teenage neighbor, Peter Trimble. It is revealed that Peter is the son she gave up for adoption years ago, and she has returned to town to see what he is like now.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.8 - 33
Going PlacesMovie · 1938 · 84mA sports store employee pretends to be a renowned jockey for a publicity stunt, but the situation quickly escalates beyond his expectations.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.3 - 34
Ferdinand the BullMovie · 1938 · 8m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyFerdinand is a gentle bull who loves the peaceful life of smelling flowers and enjoying nature, unlike the other bulls who like to fight. But after a bad experience with a bee, Ferdinand discovers a hidden fierceness, causing him to panic and stamp. This leads to him unexpectedly being drawn into the world of bullfighting.
The film is beautifully animated, with characters inspired by Disney, including a matador who looks like Walt Disney. The story explores themes of identity, courage, and acceptance through the contrast between Ferdinand's calm nature and his forced role in the bullring. It’s a memorable film for audiences of all ages.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 35
Alexander's Ragtime BandMovie · 1938 · 106mViolinist Roger Grant upsets his family and mentor by forming a jazz band, which unexpectedly finds success. He develops feelings for the band’s singer, Stella, but his fear of losing her leads him to sabotage her ambitions for a solo career. World War I separates them in 1917. After the war, Stella marries Roger's best friend. A crucial concert at Carnegie Hall reunites the three of them, bringing the romantic tension to a head.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 36
Mother Goose Goes HollywoodMovie · 1938 · 8mHollywood stars reimagine classic Mother Goose rhymes. The Marx Brothers play Old King Cole's fiddlers three. W.C. Fields portrays Humpty Dumpty, who has a comical fall while teasing Charlie McCarthy. Laurel and Hardy star as Simple Simon and the Pieman.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5 - 37
Block-HeadsMovie · 1938 · 57m · Comedy, WarSet in 1938, this drama tells the story of an unexpected friendship between two men dealing with the lingering effects of war. Though the war is over, Stan is haunted by his past, mentally reliving his time in the French trenches. He tragically shoots down a French pilot, further isolating himself and struggling with the weight of his actions.
Years later, Oliver sees a newspaper photo of Stan and wants to help him readjust to life in the U.S. When Oliver visits Stan, who has returned from France but is still deeply affected by his experiences, he offers him a fresh start. The film examines friendship, guilt, and how war continues to impact soldiers long after the fighting stops.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 38
SuezMovie · 1938 · 104mDisheartened by a romantic disappointment, Ferdinand de Lesseps accepts a posting as a junior diplomat to the Isthmus of Suez. There, he becomes convinced of the immense potential for a canal.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.2 - 39
Swingtime in the MoviesMovie · 1938 · 20mThis musical short follows a waitress working at the Warner Bros. commissary as she unexpectedly gets her opportunity to shine.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.9 - 40
Marie AntoinetteMovie · 1938 · 149mYoung Austrian Princess Marie Antoinette is betrothed to Louis XVI, the future king of France, in a marriage designed to benefit both nations politically. The lavish Marie Antoinette enjoys many personal indulgences and romantic pursuits. After Louis XV dies and Louis XVI becomes king, the queen's extravagant lifestyle makes her deeply unpopular with the French people, who resent her Austrian origins.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 41
SweetheartsMovie · 1938 · 114mThe people who made a hit show on Broadway try to keep the married actors from moving to Hollywood.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.7 - 42
Army GirlMovie · 1938 · 80mA young captain seeks to replace the U.S. Army's horses with tanks, but finds himself facing court-martial after his commanding officer, a staunch opponent of modern warfare, dies.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.0 - 43
The Goldwyn FolliesMovie · 1938 · 115mA movie producer selects an unassuming young woman to serve as "Miss Humanity," tasked with offering honest critiques of his films from an everyday perspective.IMDb 5.3TMDB 4.8 - 44
Mad About MusicMovie · 1938 · 100mAt a Swiss boarding school for girls, a young woman creates elaborate stories about a fictional explorer father and writes letters to him. She finds herself in a situation where she must convince others of his existence. She enlists the help of a visiting Englishman to achieve this.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 45
That Certain AgeMovie · 1938 · 95mReporter Vincent Bullit returns from covering the Spanish Civil War, but his boss, newspaper owner Fullerton, has another assignment for him in China. Before that, Fullerton invites Bullit to write articles about European society at his home. There, Fullerton's teenage daughter Alice becomes infatuated with Bullit, much to the dismay of her boyfriend, Ken Warren. Mr. and Mrs. Fullerton, along with Bullit himself, try to discourage Alice from pursuing the older man, a challenge made difficult by her age.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.1 - 46
Merrily We LiveMovie · 1938 · 95m · Comedy, RomanceEmily Kilbourne, a wealthy woman, has a habit of hiring unusual people for her household staff. A charming but disheveled man arrives at her door and is unexpectedly hired as her chauffeur. Emily doesn't realize that this mysterious newcomer will shake up her peaceful life and fascinate her lively daughter, Geraldine. This drama explores the complexities of relationships, social expectations, and the potential for new beginnings.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 47
Storm Over BengalMovie · 1938 · 65mA Republic Pictures film, *Storm Over Bengal* tells a complete story, filmed entirely in the San Fernando Valley, in its 65-minute runtime. The movie features a main plot centered on the Bengal Lancers, a romantic subplot, a coward who finds redemption, and plenty of villainous intrigue involving an Indian ruler. It culminates in a large-scale battle between rebels and British forces. Patric Knowles, known for his role in *Charge of the Light Brigade*, is the lead. Richard Cromwell appears as the romantic secondary character Neil Allison, and Douglass Dumbrille plays the villainous Khan. Notably, Cromwell was previously tortured by Dumbrille's henchmen in *Lives of a Bengal Lancer*, and experiences similar treatment in this film.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.3 - 48
Tropic HolidayMovie · 1938 · 78mA screenwriter traveling in Mexico finds himself falling in love with a Mexican woman.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.8 - 49
Pacific LinerMovie · 1939 · 76mOn a voyage from Shanghai to San Francisco aboard the S.S. Arcturus, Dr. Jim Craig joins as ship's physician hoping to be close to Ann Grayson, the ship's nurse. Chief Engineer "Crusher" McKay also wants Ann's attention, creating instant tension between them. When an outbreak of illness occurs below deck, Craig insists on quarantining the engine and fire rooms, but McKay actively resists his attempts to contain the disease.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.2 - 50
Vivacious LadyMovie · 1938 · 90m · Comedy, RomanceA quiet botany professor's calm life is upended when he falls for a charismatic nightclub singer. They secretly marry, sparking changes that affect both their lives and unexpectedly connect them. The film is about finding unexpected connections, accepting change, and having the strength to be yourself, set against the lively backdrop of college town life. As they build their relationship, they discover a deep appreciation for each other's passions, inspiring others to pursue their own unique lives.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 51
The BuccaneerMovie · 1938 · 126mJean Lafitte, a French pirate, saves a woman and becomes involved in the War of 1812.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 52
The Great WaltzMovie · 1938 · 104mThe renowned composer Johann Strauss jeopardizes his marriage because of his intense attraction to a captivating singer.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.4 - 53
BlockadeMovie · 1938 · 85mDuring the Spanish Civil War, an ordinary farmer must fight to protect his land. He finds love with a Russian woman, whose father works in intelligence.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.5 - 54
KentuckyMovie · 1938 · 96mJack and Sally come from families with a long-standing rivalry centered on horse racing, particularly the 1938 Kentucky Derby. Their families' divisions run deeper, however, stemming from the Civil War, where Sally's family supported the South and Jack's supported the North. Consequently, Sally's Uncle Peter strongly disapproves of any association with Jack's family.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8 - 55
Good ScoutsMovie · 1938 · 8m · Animation, ComedyDonald, an overly confident uncle, takes his nephews on a nature hike. His enthusiasm doesn’t match his skills, leading to funny mishaps that entertain the boys. Trying to gain their sympathy, Donald covers himself in catsup and pretends to be hurt. The nephews rush to help, bandaging him up and making him nearly blind. This leads to a sticky situation – he rolls into a pot of honey. The sweet smell attracts a bear, escalating their outdoor adventures into even more hilarious chaos.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2 - 56
The CitadelMovie · 1938 · 110mNewly qualified Scottish doctor Andrew Manson takes a job in a Welsh mining town and becomes concerned by the persistent cough affecting many of the miners. Frustrated by obstacles in his attempts to identify the cause, he moves to London where his practice struggles. A friend introduces him to a more profitable way of practicing medicine, catering to wealthy hypochondriacs, but a profound realization will force him to confront the true meaning of being a doctor.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 57
Girls' SchoolMovie · 1938 · 72mAt a prestigious boarding school for girls, the paths of two contrasting students cross. Natalie Freeman, a quiet class monitor, discovers that the popular Linda Simpson is secretly dating someone.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.0 - 58
The Declaration of IndependenceMovie · 1938 · 17mThis historical featurette tells the story of Caesar Rodney of Delaware, who, during the summer of 1776 at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, cast the crucial vote that led to the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.3 - 59
That Mothers Might LiveMovie · 1938 · 10m*That Mothers Might Live* is a 1938 American short drama film directed by Fred Zinnemann. The film recounts the story of Hungarian physician Ignaz Semmelweis and his discovery in the 19th century that cleanliness was essential in maternity wards, leading to a significant reduction in maternal deaths. It also depicts his difficulties in gaining acceptance for his ideas. Despite failing to achieve recognition during his lifetime, Semmelweis' work was later championed by scientists like Louis Pasteur, who developed the germ theory of disease, and British surgeon Joseph Lister, who applied Pasteur’s research to revolutionize medical practice. The film won an Academy Award for Best Short Subject (One-Reel) at the 11th Academy Awards in 1939.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1
