All 24 Howard McNear Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online

Joshua Thompson
8 min readJun 19, 2024

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Join us for an in-depth look at the fascinating world of Howard McNear Movies! In this exciting roundup article, we’ll take a closer look at the movies this talented actor was involved in, discovering his range and unique style. Whether you’re a fan of his iconic performances or interested in learning more about his career, we’ve got you covered.

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1. Escape from Fort Bravo (1953)

Set in the tumultuous era of the Civil War, 1953’s Western drama film, “Escape from Fort Bravo,” features captivating performances by a leading cast comprising of William Holden, Eleanor Parker, and John Forsythe. The film’s plot centers around a daring group of Confederate soldiers, who bravely attempt to flee from a Union POW camp stationed at Fort Bravo. Their journey through the harsh desert terrain is fraught with arduous challenges as they strive to outmaneuver the relentless pursuit of Union forces, while also dealing with the merciless Mescalero Apache tribe.

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2. The Long, Long Trailer (1954)

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Join in on a wacky and humorous adventure with the 1954 movie, “The Long, Long Trailer.” Directed by Vincente Minnelli and written by Albert Hackett, Frances Goodrich, and Clinton Twiss, this enchanting comedy-romance centers around the endearing and peculiar couple, Nicky and Tacy. These beloved characters, brought to life by Lucille Ball and the ever-charming Desi Arnaz, will have you laughing all the way.

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3. Drums Across the River (1954)

“Drums Across the River” (1954) is a captivating drama and western film that takes us back to the 1880s when the quest for gold sparks a conflict between white settlers and Ute Indians. This 1h 18min runtime unfolds a story of prejudice, peacekeeping, and the struggle for survival.

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4. Bundle of Joy (1956)

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Bundle of Joy, released in 1956, is a charming, lighthearted comedy filled with moments of warmth and laughter. Set during the Christmas season, the film follows a hardworking salesgirl, played by Debbie Reynolds, who unexpectedly discovers a baby outside an orphanage. As the news of the baby spreads, the salesgirl gains sympathy from her coworkers and even the boss’ son, played by Eddie Fisher.

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5. You Can’t Run Away from It (1956)

In the whimsical comedy “You Can’t Run Away from It, “ Ellen (June Allyson) finds herself on a thrilling adventure when her father kidnaps her after she marries a man he believes to be a gold-digger. Escaping her father’s clutches, Ellen begins her journey back to Houston to reunite with her husband.

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6. The Fuzzy Pink Nightgown (1957)

In the quirky 1957 comedy-crime film, “The Fuzzy Pink Nightgown, “ a beloved movie star mysteriously disappears. While some suspect a well-orchestrated publicity stunt, others know better. What ensues is a delightful, humorous, and suspenseful story.

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7. Bell Book and Candle (1958)

In the whimsical 1958 comedy “Bell Book and Candle, “ modern-day witch Gillian “Gil” Holroyd (Kim Novak) finds her love life shaken up when she enchants her neighbor, Shepard “Shep” Henderson (James Stewart), to fall for her instead of his fiancée, Merle Kittridge (Janice Rule). Set during Christmas time in New York City, this magical tale explores the consequences of Gil’s decision and the ensuing chaos brought about by her enchantment.

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8. The Big Circus (1959)

In “The Big Circus” (1959), a passionate and talented circus owner tries to save his financially struggling show, all while battling a shadowy figure determined to bring it to a halt. This thrilling drama, starring Victor Mature, Red Buttons, and Rhonda Fleming, takes viewers on a captivating journey as the owner navigates romantic rivalries, employer-employee conflicts, and the mysterious forces that threaten the circus’ existence.

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9. Anatomy of a Murder (1959)

Anatomy of a Murder, released in 1959, is a gripping drama and mystery film directed by Otto Preminger. The plot revolves around an upstate Michigan lawyer, played by James Stewart, who defends a soldier, portrayed by Ben Gazzara, who claims responsibility for shooting an innkeeper.

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10. It Started with a Kiss (1959)

In the lively 1959 rom-com, “It Started with a Kiss, “ U. S. Air Force sergeant Ted Martin (Glenn Ford) arrives in Spain with his sleek, futuristic automobile, sparking a whirlwind of excitement among both airforce superiors and the Spanish locals. The arrival of Ted’s Mercedes-Benz 300SL convertible and stunning wife Mavis (Debbie Reynolds) to the base ignites envy, setting the stage for hilarious mishaps and amorous rendezvous.

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11. Heller in Pink Tights (1960)

Heller in Pink Tights is a thrilling Western film released in 1960, directed by George Cukor and written by Dudley Nichols, Walter Bernstein, and Louis L’Amour. The story follows a theatrical troupe as they venture through the Old West, finding themselves amidst dangerous situations and unexpected relationships.

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12. Blue Hawaii (1961)

Immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of “Blue Hawaii” as Elvis Presley returns to the heart of the islands after serving in the Army. As he defies his parents’ expectations by landing a job as a tour guide at his girlfriend’s agency, Chad Gates unwittingly becomes entangled in a whirlwind of comedy and musical adventures.

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13. Bachelor Flat (1961)

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“Bachelor Flat, “ originally titled “None, “ is a 1961 British comedy film that centers around a British college professor, Richard Beymer, and his quest for peace in a California beach house. The peaceful retreat quickly turns tumultuous when he encounters an unwanted, rebellious female guest, a mischievous neighbor with a pet dog, and a throng of amorous American women. With hilarity ensuing at every turn, this film takes the viewer on a ride filled with comedic misunderstandings and misadventures.

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14. The Last Time I Saw Archie (1961)

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“The Last Time I Saw Archie, “ released in 1961, is a heartwarming and humorous film that revolves around the camaraderie of two Air Force friends. Stars Robert Mitchum and Jack Webb, along with Martha Hyer, deliver an unforgettable performance that perfectly captures the essence of friendship and love.

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15. The Errand Boy (1961)

Witness the hilarity as a misfit paperhanger unknowingly stirs up chaos on a bustling Hollywood studio lot! In the 1961 comedy, “The Errand Boy, “ infamous Jerry Lewis takes on a double duty as the director and writer of this satire. Following the mishaps of a goofy Southern Belle hired to reveal financial inefficiencies, the film becomes a whirlwind of misadventures, capturing the attention of audiences everywhere.

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16. Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1961)

“Journey to the Depths of the Sea” (1961) is a breathtaking action-adventure movie that takes you on a captivating trip beneath the ocean’s waves. Directed by the imaginative Irwin Allen and co-written by Allen and Charles Bennett, this film boasts illustrious actors like Walter Pidgeon, Joan Fontaine, and Barbara Eden.

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17. Follow That Dream (1962)

“Follow That Dream” takes you on a whimsical journey to the sun-kissed shores of Florida, where a motley family of dreamers sets up camp on a seemingly deserted beach. Led by the charming and talented Elvis Presley, this group of vagabonds, with their carefree and spirited spirit, finds a temporary home in this idyllic location, much to the dismay of a rigid local bureaucrat.

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18. Irma la Douce (1963)

In the whimsical 1963 comedy, “Irma la Douce, “ Jack Lemmon plays an upright Parisian policeman who falls hopelessly in love with an alluring prostitute, played by Shirley MacLaine. Unable to bear the thought of her seeing other men, he ingeniously devises a plan to become her only customer under an alter-ego persona.

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19. The Wheeler Dealers (1963)

Experience the wild and witty world of 1963’s The Wheeler Dealers. A dashing, big-time Texas wheeler-dealer, surprisingly educated in the ivy leagues, suddenly finds himself out of money but not out of charm. In an attempt to raise a whopping $1.2 million, he travels to the bustling city of New York City.

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20. Fun in Acapulco (1963)

Set sail for a tropical escapade with “Fun in Acapulco, “ the 1963 comedic musical starring none other than the King himself, Elvis Presley! Follow Mike (Elvis) as he navigates the sunny shores of Acapulco, Mexico, seeking love and adventure. When Mike’s career takes a dive due to the capricious yacht owner’s daughter (played by Elsa Cárdenas), a friendly boy helps him land a gig as the resident singer at the renowned Acapulco Hilton.

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21. Kiss Me, Stupid (1964)

In a charming blend of comedy and romance, Kiss Me, Stupid follows the story of jealous piano teacher Orville Spooner, played by the ever-charming Dean Martin. A chance encounter with famous nightclub singer Dino finds Orville trying to sell a song, hoping to reassert his own talents and ego. Meanwhile, his stunning wife Zelda is whisked away by a foreign language comedy-drama adaptation, all while remaining a major plot element in the film.

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22. My Blood Runs Cold (1965)

“My Blood Runs Cold” is a gripping 1965 drama that blends mystery and thriller elements, directed by William Conrad. The story revolves around a young, troubled man who encounters a woman he believes to be a reincarnation of his long-lost ancestor. This haunting encounter sets off a chain of events that plunge him into a chilling world of secrets, suspense, and danger.

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23. The Fortune Cookie (1966)

The Fortune Cookie, a 1966 comedy-romance film, masterfully blends humor and drama as it follows the intricate web of relationships and situations involving a charismatic crooked lawyer, his conspiring brother-in-law, and the legal system itself. Directed by the legendary Billy Wilder, the movie delivers a fresh take on corruption and insurance fraud while offering a compelling look at human nature and the lengths people will go to secure their fortune.

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24. TV’s Western Heroes (1993)

TV’s Western Heroes is a nostalgic two-hour documentary released in 1993 that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the world of classic Western TV shows. The film delves into the lives of iconic singing cowboys, bullwhip-wielding heroes, and characters hailing from famous towns such as Tombstone and Panhandle.

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