The Best Actors Who Played Scrooge, Ranked

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Updated November 30, 2023 32.9K views 25 items
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Bah humbug! We're ranking the best Ebenezer Scrooge actors. Scrooge may be one of the most popular Christmas characters of all time, but he’s certainly not the cheeriest. As the main character in Charles Dickens’s classic 1843 novella A Christmas Carol, the name Scrooge has become synonymous with being stingy.

During the course of the book, the cold and calculating businessman is visited by three ghosts (the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Future) in order to help him change his mean-spirited and nasty ways. As one of the most celebrated stories of all time, it’s no surprise there have been dozens of actors to play Scrooge over the years. Which one is your favorite? Whether you prefer Micheal Caine as Scrooge in The Muppet Christmas Carol or Jim Carrey as Scrooge in 2009's animated Christmas Carol, make your voice heard below.

Vote up the best Ebenezer Scrooge actors, and vote down the ones you didn’t like.

  • Alastair George Bell Sim, CBE (9 October 1900 – 19 August 1976) was a Scottish character actor who began his theatrical career at the age of thirty, but quickly became established as a popular West End performer, remaining so until his death in 1976. He also appeared in more than fifty British films, starting in 1935. After a series of false starts, including a spell as a jobbing labourer and another as a clerk in a local government office, Sim's love of and talent for poetry reading won him several prizes and led to his appointment as a lecturer in elocution at the University of Edinburgh in 1925. He also ran his own private elocution and drama school, from which, with the help of the playwright John Drinkwater, he made the transition to the professional stage in 1930. Despite his late start, Sim soon became well known on the London stage. A period of more than a year as a member of the Old Vic company brought him wide experience of playing Shakespeare and other classics, to which he returned throughout his career. In the modern repertoire, he formed a close professional association with the author James Bridie, which lasted from 1939 until the dramatist's death in 1951. Sim not only acted in Bridie's works, but directed them. In the later 1940s and for most of the 1950s, Sim was a leading star of British cinema, appearing in more than fifty films. They included Green for Danger (1946), Hue and Cry (1947), The Happiest Days of Your Life (1950), Scrooge (1951), The Belles of St Trinian's (1954) and An Inspector Calls (1954). Later, he made fewer films and generally concentrated on stage work, including successful productions at the Chichester Festival and regular appearances in new and old works in the West End.
    539 votes
  • George C. Scott - 'A Christmas Carol' (1984)
    Photo: CBS
    George C. Scott, a titan of American acting, etched his name in the annals of Hollywood with a career spanning over four decades. Born on October 18, 1927, in Wise, Virginia, he was renowned for his intense performances and distinctive voice. His early life was marked by hardship, but it was this very struggle that shaped his resilient character. After serving in the Marine Corps during World War II, Scott found solace in acting and honed his craft at the University of Missouri's School of Journalism, where he studied drama. Scott's breakthrough came with the role of General "Buck" Turgidson in Stanley Kubrick's film Dr. Strangelove. However, it was his unforgettable portrayal of General George S. Patton in the 1970 film Patton that catapulted him to stardom. Despite receiving an Academy Award for Best Actor for this role, Scott refused the honor, stating his belief that every dramatic performance was unique and could not be compared. This act of defiance made him the first actor to reject an Oscar, setting a precedent in the industry. Throughout his career, Scott displayed a versatility that spanned across genres and mediums. From theater to film and television, he left an impression with his powerful performances. His work in Arthur Miller's The Crucible and Neil Simon's Plaza Suite showcased his talent on stage, while his roles in films like The Hustler and The Changeling highlighted his cinematic prowess. Scott passed away in 1999, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors.
    434 votes
  • Born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite on March 14, 1933, in London, the man who would become known to the world as Michael Caine has lived a life as rich and varied as the characters he's portrayed on screen. The son of a fish-market porter and a maid, Caine grew up in a working-class family and experienced the hardships of World War II firsthand. He honed his acting skills during his military service in Korea, where he was a part of the Royal Fusiliers. Caine's career breakthrough came with the film Zulu in 1964, where he played Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead. His portrayal of the aristocratic officer set him on a path to stardom, and he quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in British cinema. His role in The Ipcress File (1965) solidified his status as a leading man, and over the years, he has been lauded for his performances in classics such as Alfie (1966), The Italian Job (1969), and Get Carter (1971). Caine's talent has not gone unrecognized by his peers. He's a two-time Academy Award winner, earning Best Supporting Actor for his roles in Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) and The Cider House Rules (1999). But perhaps what sets Caine apart is his longevity and adaptability. He has worked with some of the most respected directors of multiple generations, from Sidney Lumet and John Huston to Christopher Nolan and Steven Soderbergh.
    412 votes
  • Patrick Stewart - 'A Christmas Carol' (1999)
    Photo: TNT
    Patrick Stewart is a distinguished British actor whose career spans several decades. Born on July 13, 1940, in Mirfield, Yorkshire, England, Stewart's passion for performing arts was ignited at an early age. Despite a challenging childhood marred by poverty and domestic violence, he found solace in the world of theater, eventually earning a scholarship to the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Stewart's acting prowess is not confined to a single genre or medium. He has demonstrated his versatility through a diverse range of roles across theatre, television, and film. One of his most iconic roles is that of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the science fiction series Star Trek: The Next Generation. His compelling portrayal of the character earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his place in the annals of pop culture. Similarly, his performance as Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series highlighted his ability to imbue complex characters with depth and nuance. Besides his on-screen appearances, Stewart is also renowned for his stage work. A member of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) since the 1960s, he has delivered memorable performances in numerous productions, including Macbeth, Hamlet, and King Lear. His contributions to theatre have not gone unnoticed; he has been the recipient of multiple Laurence Olivier Awards. Off-stage and off-screen, Stewart is an active advocate for various social issues, including domestic violence and PTSD awareness. His resilience, talent, and commitment to his craft mark Patrick Stewart as a true luminary in the realm of performing arts.
    327 votes
  • Albert Finney, an iconic figure in the world of film and theater, was born on May 9, 1936, in Salford, Greater Manchester, England. Raised within a working-class family, he displayed a profound interest in performing arts from a young age. Finney's journey to stardom began at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where he honed his acting skills and developed a strong foundation that would serve him well throughout his illustrious career. Finney's breakthrough came in 1960 with his lauded performance in Saturday Night and Sunday Morning. His portrayal of Arthur Seaton, a factory worker who rebels against societal norms, established him as one of Britain's most promising actors. He further solidified his reputation with a series of critically acclaimed roles in successful films such as Tom Jones in 1963, Murder on the Orient Express in 1974, and Erin Brockovich in 2000. Throughout his career, Finney exhibited a remarkable ability to embody a wide range of characters, earning him five Academy Award nominations. In addition to his cinematic achievements, Finney was also a prominent figure in the theatre world. His performances in plays like Luther and A Day in the Death of Joe Egg were met with critical acclaim, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. Despite his success, Finney remained grounded, often shying away from the limelight and Hollywood's glamour. He passed away on February 7, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and an undeniable impact on the world of entertainment.
    293 votes
  • John Reginald Owen (5 August 1887 – 5 November 1972) was an English actor known for his many roles in British and American film along with television programs.
    227 votes
  • Born in Toronto, Canada, Arthur Christopher Orme Plummer had a distinguished career that spanned over six decades. He was one of the most versatile actors of his generation, gracing both the stage and screen with an array of compelling performances. His journey began in Montreal where he studied to become a concert pianist, but he soon found his calling in acting. This switch led him to the stages of Broadway and London's West End before he transitioned into film. Plummer's breakout role came in 1965 when he starred as Captain von Trapp in the beloved musical film The Sound of Music. Despite his initial reluctance about the role, it became one of his most recognized performances. In the following years, he continued to demonstrate his acting prowess in films such as The Insider, A Beautiful Mind, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. His portrayal of Leo Tolstoy in The Last Station earned him his first Academy Award nomination. However, it was his role in Michael Hoffman's Beginners that finally won him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 2012, making him the oldest actor to receive the award. His talent wasn't confined to just film; Plummer was also highly acclaimed for his work in theater. He won two Tony Awards, for the musical Cyrano and the play Barrymore. Beyond acting, Plummer was an accomplished writer, penning his memoir In Spite of Myself in 2008. Throughout his illustrious career, Christopher Plummer remained a true artist, continually delivering performances that resonated with audiences worldwide.
    186 votes
  • Born in 1950, Bill Murray is an American actor, comedian, and writer renowned for his deadpan delivery style. Raised in Wilmette, Illinois, Murray was one of nine children in a large Irish Catholic family. He discovered his passion for performing arts during his high school years, which led him to join the Second City comedy troupe in Chicago. In 1974, he moved to New York City and became a featured player on The National Lampoon Radio Hour, a comedy program that was a launching pad for many Saturday Night Live (SNL) performers. Murray's breakthrough came in 1975 when he was cast in NBC's SNL, replacing Chevy Chase. His distinctive comedic approach quickly made him a fan favorite. After leaving SNL in 1980, Murray transitioned into film, where he continued to make his mark. Some of his most iconic roles include the quirky scientist Dr. Peter Venkman in Ghostbusters and the cynical TV weatherman Phil Connors in Groundhog Day. While primarily known for his comedic roles, Murray has also demonstrated considerable range as an actor. His performance in the 2003 film Lost in Translation earned him a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Award for Best Actor, and he was nominated for an Academy Award. Aside from acting, Murray is also a part-time restaurateur and co-owner of the minor league baseball team, the Charleston RiverDogs. Despite his fame, he has remained notoriously private, eschewing the typical Hollywood lifestyle for a more low-key existence.
    266 votes
  • Born James Eugene Carrey on January 17, 1962, in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, Jim Carrey's journey to becoming a renowned comedian and actor was marked by hardship and perseverance. Raised in a family struggling with financial instability, Carrey developed an early knack for comedy to lighten the mood during tough times. He left school at the age of 15 to help support his family, but his dreams of entertaining never waned. His talent for impressions led him to stand-up comedy, where he began to gain recognition. Carrey moved to Hollywood in the early 1980s, where he found work as a regular at the Comedy Store. His big break came when he was discovered by legendary comedian Rodney Dangerfield, who signed him as an opening act for his tour. From there, Carrey's career took off. He landed a role on the hit TV show In Living Color in 1990, which catapulted him to national fame. His unique brand of physical comedy and ability to morph into characters won audiences over, leading to a successful film career. He starred in blockbuster hits like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber, establishing himself as a leading comedic actor of the '90s. Despite being known for his comedic roles, Carrey proved his versatility as an actor by taking on more serious roles. His performances in films like The Truman Show and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind earned him critical acclaim, demonstrating his depth and range as an actor. Aside from acting, Carrey is also recognized for his work as a producer and writer. His journey from a struggling young comedian to one of Hollywood's most beloved actors is a testament to his resilience, talent, and enduring charm.
    246 votes
  • 163 votes
  • Michael Gambon - 'Doctor Who' (2010)
    Photo: BBC
    Renowned for his powerful performances and exquisite versatility, Sir Michael Gambon was a riveting presence in the world of theater and film. Born in Cabra, Dublin, Ireland in 1940, he moved to London with his family at a young age, embarking on his acting journey at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. His career spanned over six decades, punctuated by roles both on stage and screen. Gambon's body of work was as diverse as it is impressive. He started his career in theater, where he was part of Laurence Olivier's National Theatre Company. His portrayal of diverse characters from playwrights such as Harold Pinter and Alan Ayckbourn not only revealed his exceptional skills but also led to his appointment as Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1992 and later his knighthood for services to drama in 1998. His theatrical prowess notwithstanding, Gambon was equally adept on screen. His role in the critically acclaimed television series The Singing Detective is particularly noteworthy, earning him a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in 1987. However, to a younger generation, Gambon was most recognizable for his portayal of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, a role he took over after the passing of Richard Harris. His interpretation of the character added depth and vitality, leaving an enduring impact on fans across the globe. In recognition of his substantial impact on the field of entertainment, Gambon received multiple awards and honors. Among them are three Laurence Olivier Awards, a Tony nomination, four BAFTAs, and an Emmy nomination.
    121 votes
  • Guy Pearce - 'A Christmas Carol' (2019)
    Photo: FX
    Guy Pearce, a highly versatile and talented actor, has left a lasting impression in the world of film and television. Born on 5th October 1967 in Ely, Cambridgeshire, England, Pearce's family relocated to Australia when he was only three years old. Here, his affinity for performing arts sprouted at an early age, and he began honing his skills in theater productions during his school years. His dedication to his craft and natural ability laid a strong foundation for the success that was to come. Pearce's career breakthrough came with the Australian soap opera Neighbours, where he played the role of Mike Young from 1986 to 1989. The success of the show catapulted Pearce into the limelight, paving the way for diverse roles in various genres. Notable among these were his performances in films like L.A. Confidential in 1997, where his portrayal of a by-the-book cop amidst a corrupt system earned him international acclaim. In 2000, Pearce delivered another memorable performance in Christopher Nolan's Memento, a role that required him to portray a man suffering from anterograde amnesia. His phenomenal performance further cemented his reputation as a formidable actor. Beyond his acting prowess, Pearce is also known for his musical talent. In 2014, he released his first album, Broken Bones, showcasing his aptitude as a singer and songwriter. His second album, The Nomad, was released in 2018, further exploring his musical versatility. Throughout his career, Pearce's commitment to his craft, along with his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters, has made him one of the most respected actors in the industry.
    150 votes
  • Tim Curry, born Timothy James Curry on April 19, 1946 in Grappenhall, England, is a renowned actor, singer, and voice artist. His acting career took off in London's West End where he captivated audiences with his exceptional theatrical performances. Later, he gained international recognition for his iconic role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the cult classic film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. This role solidified Curry's status as a versatile actor who could blend drama, comedy, and musical elements seamlessly. In addition to his work in film, Curry has also made significant contributions to the world of television and voice acting. He lent his distinctive voice to numerous characters in animated series and films, like the villainous Hexxus in FernGully: The Last Rainforest and the mischievous Nigel Thornberry in The Wild Thornberrys. His vocal prowess extended beyond animation, as he narrated audiobooks and performed in musicals, demonstrating his wide-ranging talents. Curry's work has not gone unnoticed. He received multiple Tony Award nominations for his performances in Broadway productions, including Amadeus and Spamalot. Despite facing health challenges that have limited his physical performances, Curry continues to contribute to the arts through his voice work. His enduring career and unique style have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft.
    128 votes
  • Basil Rathbone - 'The Stingiest Man In Town' (1956)
    Photo: NBC
    Basil Rathbone, born Philip St. John Basil Rathbone in Johannesburg, South Africa on June 13, 1892, was a distinguished actor renowned for his on-screen personification of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic detective character, Sherlock Holmes. Raised in England after his family fled from the Boer War, Rathbone's acting career burgeoned on the British stage before he transitioned to Hollywood, where he would ultimately make an indelible mark. Rathbone's film career took off in the 1920s, with his roles often encompassing villainous characters such as Murdstone in David Copperfield and Guy of Gisbourne in The Adventures of Robin Hood. However, it was his portrayal of the shrewd detective Sherlock Holmes in fourteen films between 1939 and 1946 that catapulted him to international stardom. With Nigel Bruce as his Dr. Watson, Rathbone's sharp-witted, analytical Holmes came to define the character for generations. Off-screen, Rathbone was a decorated World War I veteran and an accomplished fencer, skills which he often showcased in his films. His commitment to his craft earned him two Academy Award nominations for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Beyond acting, Rathbone was an avid reader, gardener, and had a passion for classical music. He passed away in 1967 leaving behind a legacy enshrined in the annals of Hollywood's Golden Age. His contributions to the arts are remembered through numerous awards and commemorations, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
    105 votes
  • Henry Winkler - 'An American Christmas Carol' (1979)
    Photo: ABC
    Henry Winkler, an award-winning actor, producer, and director, was born on October 30, 1945, in Manhattan, New York City. The son of German-Jewish immigrants, Winkler overcame his struggles with dyslexia to graduate from Emerson College in 1967 and the Yale School of Drama in 1970. His journey into the entertainment industry began with a series of minor roles in television and films before he found fame portraying Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli in the American sitcom Happy Days (1974-1984). Known for his leather jacket and cool demeanor, Fonzie became one of TV's most beloved characters, earning Winkler two Golden Globe Awards and three Emmy nominations. Winkler's career trajectory did not plateau post-Happy Days. Instead, he expanded his repertoire to include producing and directing. Winkler co-founded the production company Fair Dinkum Productions, which produced successful television shows such as MacGyver and Sightings. He also directed numerous episodes of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, showcasing his versatility behind the scenes. Winkler's acting career continued to flourish as well, with notable performances in series such as Arrested Development and Barry, the latter of which won him his first Primetime Emmy Award in 2018. Outside of his prolific career in entertainment, Winkler is also an accomplished author. Alongside co-author Lin Oliver, Winkler has penned a series of children's novels called Hank Zipzer: The World's Greatest Underachiever. The series, inspired by Winkler's personal experiences with dyslexia, aims to encourage and empower children facing similar challenges. In recognition of his contribution to the arts and his advocacy for dyslexia awareness, Winkler was appointed an Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2011.
    124 votes
  • Russell Thorndike - 'A Christmas Carol' (1923)
    Photo: Walturdaw
    Arthur Russell Thorndike (6 February 1885, Rochester, Kent – 7 November 1972) was a British actor and novelist, best known for the Doctor Syn of Romney Marsh novels. Less well-known than his sister Sybil but equally versatile, Russell Thorndike's first love was writing and, after serving in World War I, he devoted himself to it.
    69 votes
  • Kelsey Grammer - 'A Christmas Carol: The Musical' (2004)
    Photo: NBC
    Kelsey Grammer, an American actor, voice actor, comedian, producer, director, and writer, is widely recognized for his two-decade-long portrayal of psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane on the NBC sitcoms Cheers and Frasier. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1955, Grammer endured a tumultuous early life marked by the tragic losses of his father, sister, and two half-brothers. However, he channeled his pain into a passion for performance, attending the Juilliard School in New York City before making his mark on Broadway. Grammer's career took off when he secured the role of Frasier Crane, a character that would earn him four Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. The show Frasier, which ran from 1993 to 2004, became one of the most successful spin-off series in television history, further cementing Grammer's reputation as a skilled comedic actor. Despite being best known for this role, Grammer's work extends beyond the sitcom genre. He has demonstrated versatility across a range of roles in film, theater, and animation, including providing the voice of Sideshow Bob on The Simpsons, a role for which he won an Emmy. Beyond acting, Grammer has also made significant contributions to the entertainment industry as a director and producer. He directed numerous episodes of Frasier and served as an executive producer on the series, demonstrating his leadership skills behind the camera. Moreover, he co-founded the production company Grammnet Productions, which produced hit shows such as Medium and Girlfriends.
    125 votes
  • Jack Palance - 'Ebenezer' (1998)
    Photo: TNT
    Jack Palance, born as Volodymyr Jack Palahniuk in 1919, was a distinctive figure in the world of film and television. Born into a Ukrainian immigrant family in Pennsylvania, Palance's journey from coal miner to Academy Award-winning actor is a story that encompasses the essence of the American dream. Palance's acting career, which spanned over six decades, offered an intriguing blend of tough-guy roles and dramatic portrayals that showcased his versatility. He made his breakthrough in Hollywood with the film Panic in the Streets (1950) and later gained fame for his role in Shane (1953), a performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. However, it was his role in City Slickers (1991) that won him an Oscar, finally crowning his illustrious career with the industry's highest accolade. Off-screen, Palance was equally interesting. A professional boxer in his early years, he was also a World War II veteran, having flown combat missions in Europe. Additionally, he was a talented painter, with his works displayed in galleries worldwide. His passion for art and culture extended to his love for writing poetry, leading to the publication of a collection titled The Forest of Love. The legacy of Jack Palance lies not only in his cinematic achievements but also in his diverse array of talents that painted a rich tapestry of a life lived fully.
    79 votes
  • 20
    72 VOTES

    Charles Rock - 'A Christmas Carol' (1914)

    Charles Rock - 'A Christmas Carol' (1914)
    Photo: Cosmofotofilm Company
    Charles Rock was a British actor. He was born Arthur Charles Rock de Fabeck. Rock also wrote at least one play titled "The Ghost of Jerry Bundler", adapted from W. W. Jacobs' story Jerry Bundler. It was cast at the Haymarket Theatre Sept. 9, 1902, with Rock starring as the character George.
    72 votes
  • Susan Lucci - 'Ebbie' (1995)
    Photo: Lifetime
    Susan Victoria Lucci (born December 23, 1946) is an American actress, television host, author and entrepreneur, best known for portraying Erica Kane on the ABC daytime drama All My Children from 1970 to 2011. The character is considered an icon, and Lucci has been called "Daytime's Leading Lady" by TV Guide, with The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times citing her as the highest-paid actor in daytime television. As early as 1991, her salary had been reported as over $1 million a year.In 1996, TV Guide ranked Lucci number 37 on its 50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time list. In 2005, she received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2006. She was named one of VH1's 200 Top Icons of All-Time and one of Barbara Walters's Ten Most Fascinating People. She has also played roles in made-for-TV movies, hosted many shows and guest starred on television comedy series, including Saturday Night Live and Hot in Cleveland. She also has her own line of hair care products, perfumes, lingerie and skin care, called The Susan Lucci Collection. As of 2012, Lucci hosted Deadly Affairs, and starred as Genevieve Delatour in the Lifetime television series Devious Maids.In 2015, Lucci was inducted as a Disney Legend.
    72 votes
  • Rupert Julian - 'The Right to Be Happy' (1916)
    Photo: Universal Film Manufacturing Company
    Rupert Julian (25 January 1879 – 27 December 1943) was a New Zealand cinema actor, director, writer and producer.
    52 votes
  • Thomas Ricketts - 'A Christmas Carol' (1908)
    Photo: The Essanay Film Manufacturing Company
    Thomas B. Ricketts (January 15, 1853 – January 19, 1939) was a London-born American stage and film actor and director who was a pioneer in the film industry. He portrayed Ebenezer Scrooge in the first American film adaptation of A Christmas Carol (1908), and directed one of the first motion pictures ever made in Hollywood. After directing scores of silent films, including the first film to be released by Universal Pictures, Ricketts became a prominent character actor.
    60 votes
  • Catherine Tate - 'Nan's Christmas Carol' (2009)
    Photo: BBC One
    Catherine Tate (born Catherine Ford; 12 May 1968) is an English comedian, actress, and writer. She has won numerous awards for her work on the sketch comedy series The Catherine Tate Show as well as being nominated for an International Emmy Award and seven BAFTA. Following the success of The Catherine Tate Show, Tate played Donna Noble in the 2006 Christmas special of Doctor Who and later reprised her role, becoming the Tenth Doctor's regular companion for the fourth series in 2008. In 2011, she began a recurring role as Nellie Bertram in the U.S. version of The Office and was a regular until the series ended. She now provides the voice of Magica De Spell in the 2017 reboot of Disney's DuckTales animated series.
    71 votes
  • Marcus McDermott (24 July 1881 – 5 January 1929) was an Australian actor who starred on Broadway and in over 180 American films from 1909 until his death.
    61 votes