Audie Murphy's To Hell and Back is widely regarded as his best movie. This 1955 biographical war film stands out as his most acclaimed work, recounting his own experiences as the most decorated American combat soldier of World War II.
Why To Hell and Back is Highly Regarded
- Autobiographical Narrative: Murphy famously portrayed himself in the film, giving an authentic and poignant performance that resonated deeply with audiences. The film directly adapted his best-selling 1949 autobiography of the same name.
- Critical and Commercial Success: Upon its release, To Hell and Back was a massive box office hit for Universal-International, solidifying Murphy's status as a screen star and bringing his incredible war story to a wider audience. Its success cemented it as a definitive film in his career.
- Impact and Legacy: The movie is not just a personal story but also serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of American soldiers during WWII, making it a significant historical and cinematic piece.
Other Notable Audie Murphy Films
While To Hell and Back holds the top spot, Audie Murphy starred in numerous other films, primarily Westerns, throughout his acting career. Many of these are also highly regarded by fans and critics for his performances.
Here are some of his other highly-rated movies:
| Ranking | Movie Title | Year | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | To Hell and Back | 1955 | War, Biography |
| 2 | Destry | 1954 | Western |
| 3 | Gunsmoke | 1953 | Western |
| 4 | Drums Across the River | 1954 | Western |
| 5 | Ride a Crooked Trail | 1958 | Western |
| 6 | The Red Badge of Courage | 1951 | War, Drama |
| 7 | No Name on the Bullet | 1959 | Western |
Destry and Gunsmoke, both Westerns from the mid-1950s, showcase Murphy's versatility within the genre, often portraying stoic and heroic characters. The Red Badge of Courage, though lower on some lists, is also notable as a classic war drama where he played a pivotal role. These films demonstrate the breadth of his acting career beyond his personal war story.
