All 20 Mario Lanza Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Get ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the world of Mario Lanza as we delve into his illustrious filmography. From heartwarming romantic tales to enthralling operatic performances, this roundup article covers it all. Join us as we revisit the timeless movies that have left a lasting legacy on the big screen.
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1. Winged Victory (1944)
Winged Victory, released in 1944, tells the inspiring and heartwarming story of five aspiring pilots, Pinkie Scariano, Alan Ross, Frankie Davis, Bobby Grills, and Irving Miller, who all join the Army Air Forces with dreams of soaring through the skies. As they face the grueling challenges of aviation training, they discover the bonds of friendship, the value of determination, and the unforeseen tragic realities. The riveting screenplay, adapted from a play by Moss Hart, Jerome Cady, and John Francis Larkin, offers a blend of drama, romance, and music that captivates the audience from start to finish.
2. That Midnight Kiss (1949)
Experience the enchanting world of opera and romance in “That Midnight Kiss” (1949), a timeless musical film by esteemed director Norman Taurog. Set in Philadelphia, PA, the captivating story follows the journey of Prudence Budell, an aspiring soprano, returning to her hometown after five years spent in the prestigious music schools of Europe.
3. The Great Caruso (1951)
Be captivated by the exhilarating life of renowned tenor Enrico Caruso, who made an indelible mark in the classical music world, in the spellbinding 1951 biopic “The Great Caruso.” Inspired by true accounts, this evocative drama delves into the tumultuous relationships, personal trials, and breathtaking ascent to stardom of this legendary figure. With stunning performances by the alluring Mario Lanza, Ann Blyth, and Dorothy Kirsten, the film serves as a testament to the healing, inspiring, and unifying power of music.
4. The Student Prince (1954)
“The Student Prince” is an eternal tale of love, duty, and social boundaries that first premiered in 1954. The picturesque town of Heidelberg is the backdrop for this enchanting journey, featuring performances by esteemed actors Ann Blyth and Edmund Purdom, who portray a passionate prince and a talented barmaid. As they confront the complexities of their love, the characters take viewers on an enthralling adventure of love, trust, and self-exploration.
5. Serenade (1956)
“Serenade, “ released in 1956, is a captivating drama that blends love, art, and deception. The film follows the story of aspiring opera singer Damon Vincenti, a talented vineyard worker with a captivating tenor voice. Spotlighted in Lardelli’s Italian restaurant, Vincenti captures the attention of Kendall Hale, a wealthy and manipulative society girl with an allure for launching youthful artists into fame. However, she has a cruel track record, using them for her own pleasure before discarding them like disposable goods.
6. Seven Hills of Rome (1957)
The romantic musical-drama “Seven Hills of Rome” takes us on a journey of love and adventure set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy. American pop singer Marc Revere (played by Mario Lanza) embarks on a train ride to Rome, where he serendipitously meets the enchanting Italian Raffaela (Marisa Allasio). As their connection deepens, it becomes apparent that Raffaela’s uncle has relocated to South America, leaving her without a place to stay.
7. For the First Time (1959)
Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating world of 1959’s “For the First Time, “ a heartwarming musical that defies all expectations. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Vienna, Austria, and Paris, France, this enchanting tale follows the life of a jaded opera singer who embarks on an extraordinary journey of love and self-discovery. Journey with him as he meets a remarkable young woman, who happens to be deaf. Their beautiful, passionate relationship not only melts the heart of the hardened singer, but also transforms him into a better man.
8. That’s Entertainment! (1974)
“That’s Entertainment! “ is a delightful documentary musical that transports you back in time to experience the magic of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s (MGM) golden age. With a stellar ensemble of MGM stars from yesteryear, the film offers a nostalgic journey through the studio’s 50-year musical history. Relive the era of operetta-style performances and iconic entertainment moments, presented by legends like Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Bing Crosby.
9. Only the Lonely (1991)
“Only the Lonely” is a 1991 romantic comedy-drama film, starring John Candy, Maureen O’Hara, and Ally Sheedy. Set in the bustling city of Chicago, it follows the life of a devoted Catholic Irish-American cop, who finds himself torn between his loyalty to his controlling mother and his blossoming relationship with a shy funeral home worker. The film explores the complex mother-son relationship, exploring themes of loyalty, love, and personal growth.
10. Heavenly Creatures (1994)
“Heavenly Creatures” is a captivating 1994 drama film that unravels the intense bond between two teenage girls and the consequences it bears on their lives. Directed by Peter Jackson, the movie stars Melanie Lynskey and Kate Winslet as the girls, who share a unique, imaginative friendship that pushes the boundaries of societal norms. As the girls’ bond deepens, their parents become increasingly uneasy and fearful that their friendship is becoming too intense.
11. That Old Feeling (1997)
“That Old Feeling, “ a 1997 comedy-romance starring Bette Midler and Dennis Farina, tells the tale of a bride’s reunited divorced parents who rekindle their old feelings for each other during the wedding reception. Their unexpected romance, however, throws a wrench in the newlyweds’ honeymoon.
12. Soft Toilet Seats (1999)
“Soft Toilet Seats” is a gripping 1999 comedy film with an unexpected plot twist. When Arne purchases a home in suburban Los Angeles, he unknowingly becomes involved in a mysterious death. The previous owner was found dead in a grisly scene, and the woman’s best friend, Tilly, is convinced she didn’t commit suicide. Together, they embark on an investigation to uncover the truth.
13. The Polar Express (2004)
Delve into the magical, 3D world of “The Polar Express” (2004) with a journey you won’t forget! This family-favorite film is based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg and has become a Christmas tradition for many.
14. Zodiac (2007)
In the gripping true crime thriller “Zodiac” (2007), Robert Graysmith, a San Francisco cartoonist, finds himself drawn into the heart of a chilling mystery as he becomes obsessed with tracking down the elusive Zodiac Killer. Between 1968 and 1983, the terrorizing serial murderer unleashes a killing spree in Northern California.
15. Miss Bala (2011)
“Miss Bala” is a riveting crime drama film set in Tijuana with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. Directed by Gerardo Naranjo, it stars Stephanie Sigman, Noé Hernández, and Irene Azuela. The plot follows a young woman who is drawn into a deadly web of drug-related mayhem after witnessing a series of gruesome murders while participating in a beauty contest.
16. Pop Charts Britannia: 60 Years of the Top 10 (2012)
“Get ready to embark on a 60-year journey through the ever-changing world of pop music with ‘Pop Charts Britannia: 60 Years of the Top 10’. This riveting documentary dives deep into the evolution of the British music charts, taking you from the birth of rock and pop in the 1950s to the digital revolution of the 21st century. Get an exclusive look at how the top 10 has shaped the soundtracks of our lives, featuring iconic artists like ABBA and Bryan Adams.
17. The Glass Castle (2017)
“The Glass Castle” is a riveting drama based on the true story of a young girl navigating the challenges and complexities of growing up in a nonconformist, nomadic family. With her eccentric artist mother and alcoholic father, the children find solace in their father’s vivid storytelling and artwork, serving as a source of hope amidst their impoverished circumstances. Featuring powerful performances by Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson, and Naomi Watts, this inspiring biography delves into the profound impact of one family’s unbreakable bond and their unwavering pursuit of a better life.
18. Elvis Presley: The Searcher (2018)
Elvis Presley: The Searcher takes viewers on a journey into the life and legacy of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll. The 2018 film showcases Elvis’ extraordinary personal and professional growth, from his humble beginnings as a young man from the South to his meteoric rise as a world-renowned musician and cultural icon.
19. A Star Is Born (2018)
A Star Is Born (2018) tells the story of Jackson Maine, a grizzled, seasoned musician whose own fame is about to crumble under the burden of age and alcoholism. One day, he stumbles upon a young, passionate singer named Ally, whose powerful voice breathes new life into his dying career. As Jackson helps her soar to fame, he becomes intimately intertwined with her life.
20. Big Gold Brick (2022)
In the quirky comedy “Big Gold Brick, “ directed and co-written by Brian Petsos, the struggling writer Samuel Liston finds himself enmeshed in the life of enigmatic middle-aged father Floyd Deveraux. Floyd, desperate for someone to write his biography, enlists Samuel to capture his fascinating life story. Little does Samuel know, Floyd’s adventures are far more complicated than he anticipated, filled with danger, intrigue, and a hit-and-run bus station incident.
