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Charles McGraw Filmography

ActorBORN 1914DES MOINES65 FILMS IN DB

CharlesMcGraw

Known for Acting · O'Hara, United States Treasury: Operation Cobra, Johnny Got His Gun, In Cold Blood

65
FILMS IN DB
$1,216
TOTAL VALUE
46
PRICED
$26
AVG VALUE
DVD
BEST FORMAT
💎
RAREST RELEASE
The Threat
~$117 · 4K · 1949
📈
MOST VALUABLE
Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid
$18 · Est. market value

BIOGRAPHY

With a voice like sandpaper and a face that meant business, Charles McGraw carved out an indelible niche in Hollywood, becoming a favorite for collectors of classic film noir and hardboiled crime. His career, spanning decades, is rich with roles that perfectly complement his tough-guy persona. From his unforgettable turn as the menacing hitman in Robert Siodmak’s seminal *The Killers* (1946), a foundational film noir, to his more sympathetic yet still gruff police detective in *The Narrow Margin* (1952), McGraw consistently delivered performances that are as captivating today as they were then. These early noirs, often released as restored Blu-rays or even Criterion editions, are highly sought after by enthusiasts. Later in his career, McGraw seamlessly transitioned into a variety of memorable supporting roles in bigger productions. Collectors often seek out his appearances in Stanley Kubrick’s epic *Spartacus* (1960) and Alfred Hitchcock’s chilling *The Birds* (1963), both ripe for pristine 4K restorations. His distinctive presence also bolstered films like *The Defiant Ones* (1958) and the star-studded comedy caper *It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World* (1963), showcasing his versatility outside of his noir comfort zone. McGraw’s filmography is a treasure trove for physical media buffs, offering a deep dive into mid-century American cinema, from shadowed alleys to wide-screen spectacles.

HIGHEST VALUE RELEASES

FILMS BY DECADE

FULL FILMOGRAPHY

65 films
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What era did Charles McGraw's acting career primarily span?

Charles McGraw's film career spanned from 1943 to 1982, with his most active decade being the 1950s.

What types of genres did Charles McGraw work in?

He appeared in a variety of genres including drama, crime, thriller, comedy, western, and war films.

What are some of Charles McGraw's notable film roles?

Some of his notable roles include Marcellus in Spartacus (1960), Sheriff Ray Calhoun in Hang 'em High (1968), and Sebastian Sholes in The Birds (1963).

Did Charles McGraw appear in any classic thriller or horror films?

Yes, he played Police Chief Ed Masterson in the cult thriller The Night Stalker (1972), a film that blends crime and horror elements.

On which physical media formats can Charles McGraw's films be found?

His films are available on various formats including 4k, Betamax, Blu-ray, DVD, HD-DVD, Laserdisc, VHS, and others.