The Best Shirley MacLaine Movies

Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Shirley MacLaine Movies
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List of the best Shirley MacLaine movies, ranked best to worst with movie trailers when available. Shirley MacLaine's highest grossing movies have received a lot of accolades over the years, earning millions upon millions around the world. The order of these top Shirley MacLaine movies is decided by how many votes they receive, so only highly rated Shirley MacLaine movies will be at the top of the list. Shirley MacLaine has been in a lot of films, so people often debate each other over what the greatest Shirley MacLaine movie of all time is. If you and a friend are arguing about this then use this list of the most entertaining Shirley MacLaine films to end the squabble once and for all.

If you think the best Shirley MacLaine role isn't at the top, then upvote it so it has the chance to become number one. The greatest Shirley MacLaine performances didn't necessarily come from the best movies, but in most cases they go hand in hand.

List films range from Joan of Arc to Terms of Endearment.

"This list answers the questions, "What are the best Shirley MacLaine movies?" and "What are the greatest Shirley MacLaine roles of all time?"

Notable directors that have worked with Shirley MacLaine include names like Alfred Hitchcock, Garry Marshall and Rob Reiner. Movie fans who love Shirley MacLaine have also been known to enjoy films starring Andie MacDowell and Sissy Spacek.

Most divisive: Bewitched
Ranked by
  • Steel Magnolias
    1
    Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine
    116 votes
    • Released: 1989
    • Directed by: Herbert Ross

    Set in a small Louisiana town, this heartfelt drama features the lives of six women who bond through their shared experiences of love, loss, and camaraderie at a local beauty salon. MacLaine delivers a powerful performance as Ouiser Boudreaux, the cranky yet lovable neighbor whose tough exterior hides a soft heart. Her compelling portrayal adds depth to the ensemble cast and contributes to the movie's enduring popularity as a timeless exploration of female friendships.

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  • Terms of Endearment
    2
    Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, Jack Nicholson
    128 votes
    • Released: 1983
    • Directed by: James L. Brooks

    This tearjerker focuses on the tumultuous relationship between a strong-willed mother and her equally headstrong daughter, as they navigate the highs and lows of life over three decades. MacLaine's Oscar-winning turn as Aurora Greenway showcases her incredible range, from biting humor to gut-wrenching sorrow, creating an unforgettable character. With its evocative storyline and superb acting, the film resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning multiple Academy Awards.

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  • The Apartment
    3
    Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurray
    135 votes
    • Released: 1960
    • Directed by: Billy Wilder

    A biting satire of corporate America, the movie follows an ambitious office worker who lends his apartment to his superiors for extramarital liaisons, only to fall in love with one of their mistresses. MacLaine shines as the vulnerable and complex Fran Kubelik, earning her an Academy Award nomination and solidifying her status as a leading lady. The film's witty script, memorable performances, and sharp social commentary helped make it an enduring classic and a defining role for MacLaine.

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  • The Children's Hour
    4
    Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, James Garner
    81 votes
    • Released: 1961
    • Directed by: William Wyler

    This gripping drama delves into the damaging effects of lies and malicious gossip, as two women who run a girls' school are accused of having a lesbian relationship. MacLaine brings nuance and sensitivity to her portrayal of Martha Dobie, a woman grappling with her identity amidst a devastating scandal. The film's daring exploration of taboo themes and superb acting cemented its place as a groundbreaking and powerful piece of cinema.

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  • Two Mules for Sister Sara
    5
    Clint Eastwood, Shirley MacLaine, Armando Silvestre
    80 votes
    • Released: 1970
    • Directed by: Don Siegel

    In this western adventure, a nun and a vagabond drifter team up to help Mexican revolutionaries battle against French forces. MacLaine's performance as the tough, resourceful Sister Sara showcases her ability to tackle a variety of genres while still infusing her character with humor and warmth. The movie's engaging plot, combined with MacLaine's undeniable chemistry with co-star Clint Eastwood, makes it an entertaining and memorable addition to her impressive filmography.

  • Being There
    6
    Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, Jack Warden
    77 votes
    • Released: 1979
    • Directed by: Hal Ashby

    This satirical comedy focuses on the life of a simple gardener whose limited understanding of the world is mistaken for profundity, leading him to become a celebrated political adviser. MacLaine's turn as Eve Rand, the wealthy socialite captivated by this enigmatic man, adds depth and complexity to a story that examines the power of perception. Both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, the film remains a standout example of biting social commentary and excellent ensemble acting.

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