All 39 Norman Lear Movies (in Order)
Dive into the world of iconic filmmaker Norman Lear with our roundup of his remarkable works. From heartwarming family dramas to cutting-edge comedies, this article offers a glimpse into the groundbreaking legacy of one of Hollywood’s most influential creators.
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1. Come Blow Your Horn (1963)
Come Blow Your Horn, “ a 1963 comedy-musical film, takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through the glamorous life of young Buddy Baker, who leaves his safe and sheltered home to move in with his charming yet worldly older brother, played by the legendary Frank Sinatra. This lively film is based on the play by Neil Simon and showcases the vibrant energy of New York City as Buddy learns how to become a suave partygoer and playboy in their high-class Manhattan apartment.
2. Never Too Late (1965)
Never Too Late” is a delightful 1965 comedy film that follows the unexpected journey of Edith Lambert, a woman in her fifties, who discovers that she is going to have a baby. Thrilled with the news, Edith eagerly embraces the upcoming change, while her husband Harry initially expresses less enthusiasm.
3. Divorce American Style (1967)
Divorce American Style, released in 1967, stars Dick Van Dyke and Debbie Reynolds as a suburban couple who learn that not even divorce can solve all their problems. The film showcases the comedic struggle of the couple as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship, taking place primarily in Los Angeles, California. The movie’s premise revolves around a safety deposit box, which plays a pivotal role in the storyline.
4. The Night They Raided Minsky’s (1968)
The Night They Raided Minsky’s” is a hilarious comedy film from 1968 that tells the story of a young Amish woman who escapes the confines of her Pennsylvania home, driven by dreams of performing in religious stage plays. However, fate has other plans for her, as she finds herself instead on the stage of a Burlesque theatre in the heart of New York City.
5. Start the Revolution Without Me (1970)
Start the Revolution Without Me” is a hilarious 1970s comedy film that follows the hilarious and far-fetched adventures of two sets of identical twins, one aristocrat and one peasant, who accidentally swap identities on the eve of the French Revolution. Gene Wilder and Donald Sutherland star in this rollicking tale of mistaken identities, where the aristocratic twin finds himself in the midst of revolution, while his peasant counterpart unwittingly takes the reins of power and high society. Filled with dance balls, sibling rivalry, and a witty voice-over narration, this film is a delightful romp through history, with a healthy dose of comedy to keep you entertained.
6. Cold Turkey (1971)
Experience a hilarious journey in 1971’s “Cold Turkey, “ where a desperate tobacco company offers a tempting bribe for any town to quit smoking for just 30 days. When Eagle Rock, Iowa, takes them up on the challenge, the comedic chaos ensues.
7. Bob Hope’s World of Comedy (1976)
In 1976, American comedy legend Bob Hope joined forces with renowned creative minds to bring the “Bob Hope’s World of Comedy” tv special to life. This two-hour, comedic masterpiece features a lineup of hilarious sketches and entertaining music performances that showcase the timeless talent of Bob Hope and his illustrious co-stars. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this classic TV special as it delivers the laughter and charm that only Bob Hope can provide.
8. I Love Liberty (1982)
I Love Liberty” is a delightful 1982 television special that boasts an all-star cast in a variety show saluting the United States of America. Featuring The Muppets, the renowned comedy duo Desi Arnaz Jr.
9. Heartsounds (1984)
HeartSounds is a compelling drama film released in 1984, directed by Glenn Jordan and starring Mary Tyler Moore, James Garner, and Sam Wanamaker. The storyline revolves around Harold Lear, a skilled New York urologist, who faces a heart-wrenching reality when he himself suffers a heart attack. As he navigates through the medical system, he is confronted with a lack of empathy and inadequate care at his institutions.
10. The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride” is a delightful and whimsical tale that effortlessly blends the genres of adventure, comedy, and family-friendly entertainment. This captivating fairy tale follows the journey of a dashing farmhand, William Goldman’s (portrayed by Cary Elwes), who transforms into a notorious pirate in pursuit of his true love, Buttercup (portrayed by Robin Wright).
11. Fried Green Tomatoes (1991)
Fried Green Tomatoes, “ released in 1991, offers a heartwarming exploration of the power of female bonding and the resilience of the human spirit. Set in the South, the story centers around Evelyn Couch (Kathy Bates), an otherwise unhappy housewife, who is captivated by the tales told by an elderly woman, Mrs. Threadgoode (Jessica Tandy), at a nursing home. Mrs. Threadgoode regales Evelyn with stories of people she knew in her youth, particularly her best friend, Idgie (Mary Stuart Masterson).
12. Color Adjustment (1992)
Color Adjustment, “ a powerful documentary masterfully directed by Marlon Riggs, dives into the transformation of television’s representation of black Americans from 1948 to 1988. Originally an unflattering portrayal, where black figures were often depicted as struggling or suffering, the documentary highlights the drastic shift in the 1980s with black characters seemingly achieving the American dream. However, this portrayal clashes dramatically with the reality faced by the black community.
13. Corwin (1996)
Dive into the enchanting world of “Corwin” (1996) — a heartfelt biography that pays tribute to the legendary Norman Corwin, the mastermind behind the Golden Age of Radio. From his unmatched writing prowess to his groundbreaking production and directing skills, Corwin’s influence on the industry during this golden era cannot be understated.
14. The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg (1998)
The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg” is a captivating 1998 sports documentary that delivers a poignant look into the life and career of Hank Greenberg, the first significant Jewish baseball star in the Major Leagues. Set in the 1930s, the film transports viewers to a time when the Jewish community was eagerly embracing the newfound hero of their own culture on the baseball field.
15. CBS: The First 50 Years (1998)
Celebrate the golden jubilee of CBS with this two-hour prime-time television spectacular celebrating the iconic network’s first 50 years. Dive into the rich history of television, from its inception to the influential programs that shaped our culture.
16. Television: The First Fifty Years (1999)
Television: The First Fifty Years” is a captivating 1999 documentary that delves into the evolution and influence of television on American culture. Directed by Kent Hagen, this thought-provoking film weaves together rare clips, newsreels, and candid interviews from iconic figures like Walter Cronkite, Carol Burnett, and Jay Leno.
17. Way Past Cool (2000)
Way Past Cool” is a heart-wrenching coming-of-age drama that unfolds the story of a group of young, ambitious black kids fighting to reclaim their lost childhood. Based on the award-winning novel by Jess Mowry, this film, marked by its nonlinear narrative style, offers a unique perspective on the trials and tribulations of growing up.
18. Small Town Gay Bar (2006)
Step into the captivating world of “Small Town Gay Bar, “ a documentary that delves into the lives of a close-knit community in the deep South. Directed by Malcolm Ingram and produced by View Askew Productions, this 1 hour and 16-minute film captures the struggles of ignorance, hypocrisy, and oppression faced by the residents.
19. Pete Seeger: The Power of Song (2007)
Pete Seeger: The Power of Song” is a captivating and insightful documentary that delves into the life and legacy of the legendary folk artist, activist, and union member Pete Seeger. The film masterfully weaves together interviews, archival footage, and home movies to provide a comprehensive picture of Seeger’s social history and his profound impact on American music and politics. As an artist and activist, Seeger has touched the lives of countless individuals, including famous names like Joan Baez, Johnny Cash, and even former U. S.
20. The Brothers Warner (2007)
The Brothers Warner” is an insightful and captivating documentary directed by Cass Warner, which delves into the remarkable lives of four visionary film pioneers, Harry, Albert, Sam, and Jack Warner. Born into immigrant poverty, these brothers overcame personal tragedies and social barriers to create a major Hollywood studio. This documentary provides a rare glimpse into the lives of the founding brothers, who rose from humble beginnings to become influential figures in the American film industry.
21. El Superstar: The Unlikely Rise of Juan Frances (2008)
El Superstar: The Unlikely Rise of Juan Frances” is a heartfelt comedy that tells the inspiring life story of Juan Frances, a Mexican man who, despite humble beginnings, becomes the talk of the town as an unlikely pop music sensation. Raised by his Mexican nanny and step-father, Juan learns the values of a strong work ethic and the importance of faith.
22. Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg (2009)
Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg” is a riveting documentary that delves into the life and achievements of Gertrude Berg, a remarkable actress, writer, and broadcasting pioneer.
23. This Is It (2009)
This Is It” is a mesmerizing documentary that showcases never-before-seen footage behind Michael Jackson’s preparations for his anticipated series of sold-out shows in London. The movie is a 3D masterpiece that blends compelling interviews with rehearsals, giving viewers a unique glimpse into the creative process and inner workings of the King of Pop.
24. Ray Charles America (2010)
Ray Charles America is a captivating documentary that delves into the extraordinary life and career of the legendary Ray Charles. From his humble beginnings in poverty to his rise as a pioneering musician and visionary talent, this film reveals the complexity behind the iconic figure.
25. Ghetto Physics (2010)
Ghetto Physics, released in 2010, is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that delves into the complex and often hidden dynamics of power in our social, political, and corporate spheres. This film is a unique blend of documentary, satire, and narrative storytelling that challenges viewers to question their understanding and assumptions about power.
26. I’m Carolyn Parker (2011)
I’m Carolyn Parker” (2011) is a powerful documentary directed by Jonathan Demme that chronicles the life of Carolyn Parker, a survivor of Hurricane Katrina determined to rebuild her life from the wreckage. The film dives into the resilience, hope, and fortitude that Carolyn exhibits despite the devastating impact of the storm on her community. With a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes, this documentary showcases the inspirational spirit of Carolyn Parker and offers a glimpse into the unyielding human strength displayed in the face of adversity.
27. Pablo (2012)
Step into the world of legendary film-title designer Pablo Ferro in this mesmerizing blend of documentary and animation. Delving into the life and work of the 72-year-old mastermind, “Pablo” offers an insightful exploration of his craft. From the opening frame, the viewer is swept into a world of part animated, one-word title masterpieces. The film’s forename-as-title format creates a unique narrative flow, while the name in the title pays homage to the protagonist’s illustrious career.
28. Casting By (2012)
Casting By” is a riveting documentary that delves into the fascinating world of Hollywood casting directors. This unsung workforce, often overlooked in the glitz and glamour of the movie industry, have a crucial role in redefining it with their exceptional talent and keen eye for spotting stars.
29. Corpus Christi: Playing with Redemption (2012)
Corpus Christi: Playing with Redemption (2012) is an inspirational documentary that tells the powerful and heartfelt story of a group of talented actors, as they embark on a journey to bring to life Terrence McNally’s Passion Play. The play, which revolves around a gay Jesus, takes a unique approach, offering a thought-provoking exploration of faith and redemption. This small-town production, with its diverse cast of characters, catches the attention of the world and finds themselves thrust into the international spotlight.
30. Marsha Hunt’s Sweet Adversity (2015)
In the riveting 2015 documentary ‘Marsha Hunt’s Sweet Adversity’, we are introduced to the remarkable life of Marsha Hunt, an aspiring 17-year-old actress who was discovered in Hollywood. Starring in 54 films within just 17 years under the guidance of MGM, Marsha was on her way to becoming a Hollywood legend. However, her world shattered as she became unfairly blacklisted following a series of unfortunate events.
31. Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You (2016)
Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You” is a compelling documentary that delves into the life and career of the legendary television producer, Norman Lear. From his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise as one of the most successful producers in television history, the film takes viewers on an insightful journey through Lear’s life and work.
32. Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me (2017)
Sammy Davis, Jr. : I’ve Gotta Be Me is a riveting 2017 documentary that offers an intimate look into the life of the legendary multi-talented singer, actor, and dancer, Sammy Davis Jr. The film features a star-studded roster of interviewees, including Jerry Lewis, Whoopi Goldberg, and Billy Crystal, all paying tribute to the iconic figure. Through these personal recollections, the film weaves together a captivating narrative that showcases Davis’s career, personal struggles, and remarkable impact on the entertainment industry.
33. If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast (2017)
Experience the inspiring journey and unforgettable stories of nonagenarians, the eldest demographic living among us. In the documentary If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast, legendary comedian and actor Carl Reiner embarks on a transformative journey to seek out and connect with those who have reached an age that often evokes feelings of loneliness and despair.
34. The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee (2017)
Dive into the world of journalism with “The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee” (2017). This captivating documentary follows the astounding career of Ben Bradlee, the iconic editor of The Washington Post. Known for his unyielding pursuit of truth and his ability to shape investigative journalism, Bradlee’s life and work were nothing short of extraordinary.
35. The 40th Annual Kennedy Center Honors (2017)
Experience the spectacular 40th Annual Kennedy Center Honors, an unforgettable celebration of excellence and entertainment. This one-hour and 31-minute TV special pays tribute to legendary artists Gloria Estefan, Norman Lear, LL COOL J, Carmen de Lavallade, and Lionel Richie. With an impressive lineup of stars, including Quincy Jones and Gloria Estefan, the honorees are welcomed into the prestigious Kennedy Center family.
36. Robert Scheer: Above the Fold (2019)
Robert Scheer: Above the Fold” is a captivating documentary that delves into the six-decade-long career of a tenacious investigative journalist. This film traces Robert Scheer’s journey from his association with the groundbreaking 1960s magazine Ramparts, through his tenure with the influential Los Angeles Times newspaper, and onto his current work with the internet publication Truthdig.
37. The Great Hack (2019)
The Great Hack (2019) is an eye-opening documentary that delves into one of the most significant scandals of our time: the Cambridge Analytica scandal. This powerful film examines the roles of various individuals affected by the scandal, which involved the manipulation of political campaigns, voter data, and social media in an effort to sway political outcomes.
38. Biography: I Want My MTV (2019)
Biography: I Want My MTV” (2019) is a compelling documentary that dives into the origins of one of the most iconic channels of the 1980s — MTV. This film takes us on a nostalgic journey, where we witness the channel’s inception that transformed cable TV and shaped the world of music and film for future generations. The documentary features captivating interviews, rare footage, and fascinating stories from artists and industry pioneers, bringing to life the impact MTV had on the entertainment landscape.
39. Find Your Groove (2020)
Find Your Groove, released in 2020, is a captivating documentary highlighting the power and significance of music in our lives. Featuring an all-star cast and powerful performances by legends and icons of the music world, it delves into the lack of support for music education in schools, and how music impacts us in ways beyond what we can imagine. A must-watch for anyone who has ever felt the rhythm of life, this compelling film proves that music truly heals.