When one hears Frank Sinatra rarely does his film career come to mind as his singing voice usually does takes the spotlight. His entrance to the film industry has some controversy surrounding it but the rat pack member had some memorable moments on the big screen.
Despite this his film resume is quite impressive, appearing in. numerous movies throughout the 40s, 50s, and 60s spanning tons of genres like war, comedy, and musical. With that, here are Frank Sinatra's Movie Roles, Ranked According to IMDb.
The Joker is Wild (1957): 7.0
Musicals are an obvious choice considering Sinatra's voice, iconic to say the least. The Joker is Wild takes everything Sinatra is known for and destroys it, literally. This flick follows the story of a young comedian who hops from speakeasies to the next performing comedy.
When a mob boss hunts him down and damages his vocal cords, his life takes a turn for the worse. With the help of a friend whom he falls in love with, Joe E. Lewis (Sinatra's character) is back on the stage. The Joker is Wild is a darker comedy and takes on a singer's life, one that exploits the behind the scenes action of stage performers.
High Society (1956): 7.0
Teaming up with Bing Crosby (no, not for another Christmas album) and Grace Kelly, Sinatra's role in this love triangle film is a fun ride from start to finish. Once again Sinatra employs his musical talents to woo a woman whom he adores only to find himself challenged by someone of equal skill.
It's like White Christmas minus the holiday cheer and more competition to win someone over. Crosby and Sinatra, much like in the music industry, deliver stellar performances as one of the dynamic duos in on the screen and radio.
Anchors Aweigh (1945): 7.1
The title may not sound familiar but the costumes and sets certainly are to those acquainted with show business. Anchors Aweigh is a light-hearted musical that follows two sailors, one experienced the other not so much. Sinatra stars alongside Gene Kelly with some Disney-like cartoon animations to top it all off. Cheesy by today's standards, but for 1945 this was simply amazing.
Von Ryan's Express (1965): 7.1
This World War II tale, much like The Great Escape which was released two years prior, captures the daring escape of British soldiers from a German POW camp. Sinatra plays the starring role of Col. Joseph L. Ryan who leads the escape.
Much like From Here to Eternity, Sinatra puts aside vocal cords in exchange for a serious role, making a name for himself in the film industry.
Guys and Dolls (1955): 7.2
Not only is Guys and Dolls one of the most famous musicals of all time, but it also sports an impressive duo. Marlon Brando from the Godfather along with Sinatra pair up for this flick. Brando, who is often considered the greatest actor of all time stars with Sinatra, often considering one of the greatest singers of all time. Guys and Dolls combine music with drama and crime making it one of the most unique flicks on this list. Sinatra made Guys and Dolls one of the most recognizable plays in Broadway history.
Some Came Running (1958): 7.4
Some Came Running features a trio of all-stars: Sinatra (obviously), Dean Martin, and Shirley MacLaine. Sinatra embodies more of an existential attitude in this movie as he plays Dave Hirsch, a retired army veteran, and writer who returns to his home town, unsure of what his next move is in life.
With a touch of romance, Some Came Running is a powerful movie touching upon some harsh realities of post-war life.
On the Town (1949): 7.4
On the Town is 40s version of Ferris Bueller's Day off, following three sailors given the day off on shore leave. The movies follow their adventures looking for romance and fun before they're called to leave again. Sinatra, along with Gene Kelly and Jules Munshin sing their way through New York City in this musical tale. The movie originally appeared on Broadway in 1944 before getting the green light to transition to the big screen.
The Man with The Golden Arm (1955): 7.4
Not to be confused with The Man with the Golden Gun featuring Roger Moore as James Bond, this crime flick follows Sinatra and Kim Novak dealing with addiction. Not the happiest movie on this list but it allows Sinatra to strive outside of what he's used to; musicals.
Furthermore, Sinatra was eager to sign on for the role while competing with Marlon Brando. The studio decided on Sinatra before Brando had the chance to say yes or no.
From Here to Eternity (1953): 7.6
The title may not sound too familiar, but it features one of the most famous shots in cinema history. The pair of lovers kissing on the beach while the waves crash down onto them. Sinatra's role is rather small in this is rather small considering his movies. Supposedly, Sinatra got the role after the mafia had gone after the studio, forcing them to make a deal. They assured him, either his brains or signature would be on the contract.
The Manchurian Candidate (1962): 7.9
Arguably one of the most famous movies released from the Cold War era, The Manchurian Candidate is a testimony to Sinatra's acting skills. The roles prove he's capable of much more than singing, playing a brainwashed POW with intentions revolving around an assassination.
Thrilling and suspenseful, The Manchurian Candidate is a faithful adaption of the novel written by Richard Condon. Sinatra further complemented this with his portrayal of the book's main character, capturing the troubled and brainwashed mind of Major Bennett Marco.