Natalie Wood Filmography: A Complete List of Her Films
Natalie Wood was one of Hollywood’s most beloved and talented actresses, known for her ability to transition from child star to leading lady with ease. She left behind a remarkable filmography that spans four decades, featuring classic films in various genres, from heartwarming dramas to musicals and thrillers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Natalie Wood’s complete filmography, highlighting some of her most significant performances and contributions to cinema.
Early Career: The Rise of a Child Star (1943–1954)
Natalie Wood’s career began at a young age, with her first uncredited role at the age of five. Her breakthrough came in 1947 with Miracle on 34th Street, solidifying her place as a child star.
Films from 1943–1954:
- Happy Land (1943) – Uncredited
- Tomorrow Is Forever (1946)
- The Bride Wore Boots (1946) – Uncredited
- Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
- The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) – Uncredited
- Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay! (1948) – Uncredited
- Driftwood (1947)
- The Sainted Sisters (1948)
- Chicken Every Sunday (1949)
- The Green Promise (1949)
- Father Was a Fullback (1949)
- Never a Dull Moment (1950)
- No Sad Songs for Me (1950)
- Our Very Own (1950)
- The Jackpot (1950)
- Dear Brat (1951)
- The Blue Veil (1951)
- Just for You (1952)
- The Rose Bowl Story (1952) – Uncredited
- The Star (1952)
- The Silver Chalice (1954)
During this period, she developed a reputation for portraying precocious and emotionally expressive young girls.
Teen Stardom and Transition to Adult Roles (1955–1960)
Natalie’s performance in Rebel Without a Cause (1955) alongside James Dean marked a turning point in her career, helping her transition into mature roles.
Films from 1955–1960:
- Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
- One Desire (1955)
- The Burning Hills (1956)
- The Girl He Left Behind (1956)
- Bombers B-52 (1957)
- Kings Go Forth (1958)
- Marjorie Morningstar (1958)
- Cash McCall (1960)
Her role in Rebel Without a Cause earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, proving that she was more than just a child star.
Golden Age of Stardom (1961–1969)
The 1960s were the height of Natalie Wood’s career. She starred in some of Hollywood’s most memorable films, including West Side Story and Splendor in the Grass.
Films from 1961–1969:
- All the Fine Young Cannibals (1960)
- Splendor in the Grass (1961)
- West Side Story (1961)
- Gypsy (1962)
- Love with the Proper Stranger (1963)
- The Great Race (1965)
- Inside Daisy Clover (1965)
- This Property Is Condemned (1966)
- Penelope (1966)
- Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969)
Her role in Splendor in the Grass earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, and West Side Story became one of the most successful musicals of all time.
Later Career and Hiatus (1970–1981)
During the 1970s, Natalie took a step back from film to focus on her personal life, but she still made notable appearances in movies and television.
Films from 1970–1981:
- Peeper (1975)
- Meteor (1979)
- The Last Married Couple in America (1980)
- Brainstorm (1983) – Released posthumously
Her last film, Brainstorm, was released after her tragic death in 1981.
Notable Television Work
Though primarily known for her films, Natalie also made several appearances on television. Some highlights include:
- The Pride of the Family (1953–1954) – TV series
- The Cracker Factory (1979) – TV movie
- Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1976) – TV movie
Final Thoughts
Natalie Wood’s filmography is a testament to her versatility as an actress. She shined in classic dramas, musicals, comedies, and thrillers, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. Whether as the innocent Susan in Miracle on 34th Street, the rebellious Judy in Rebel Without a Cause, or the passionate Maria in West Side Story, Natalie’s performances continue to captivate audiences today.
Her life may have been tragically cut short, but her legacy in Hollywood remains eternal.
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