Clara Bow, the iconic actress of the silent film era, was known as the original “It Girl” for her vibrant and captivating screen presence. She became a symbol of the Roaring Twenties and had an impressive body of work.

Here are 10 of her best films:

It (1927)
This is Clara Bow’s most famous role and the film that solidified her as the “It Girl.” She plays Betty Lou, a vivacious shopgirl who sets her sights on her boss. The film epitomized the spirit of the 1920s and made Bow a cultural icon.

Wings (1927)
One of the first Academy Award winners for Best Picture, Wings is a World War I epic. Bow plays Mary, a woman in love with a fighter pilot. Although not the film’s central focus, her performance helped elevate the film’s emotional depth.

Mantrap (1926) – shown above
This romantic comedy showcases Clara Bow’s comedic talents. She plays a flirty and vivacious girl, Alverna, who marries a woodsman but still charms the city men who come her way. It’s one of her best performances, mixing humor and sex appeal.

The Wild Party (1929)
Clara Bow’s first sound film, The Wild Party, was a major success. She stars as Stella, a fun-loving college girl whose lifestyle leads to drama. The film was notable for helping transition Bow from silent films to the sound era.

Call Her Savage (1932) – shown above
In one of her final roles, Clara Bow plays Nasa, a rebellious woman dealing with personal turmoil. The film is dramatic, emotional, and a departure from some of her earlier, lighter roles, highlighting her range as an actress.Hula (1927)
In this romantic drama, Bow plays a free-spirited young woman in Hawaii who pursues the man she loves despite social conventions. The film is fun and playful, with Bow’s performance as Hula showcasing her carefree charm.

Kid Boots (1926)
A delightful comedy in which Clara Bow plays Clara McCoy, a lively young woman caught up in romantic and comedic complications. Her energy and comedic timing steal the show, even alongside Eddie Cantor.

Dancing Mothers (1926)
Bow plays Kittens, a young woman who causes trouble in the lives of her parents in this melodrama. Her vivacious performance contrasted with the more restrained style of her co-stars, making her the standout of the film.

The Plastic Age (1925)
A coming-of-age story, this film sees Clara Bow as Cynthia, a popular and flirtatious college girl who captivates the male lead. It’s one of the films that helped Bow gain recognition as a rising star in Hollywood.

The Fleet’s In (1928)
Bow plays Trixie, a showgirl involved with a sailor in this romantic comedy. The film is light-hearted and fun, with Bow’s performance adding sparkle to the naval-themed plot.

Clara Bow’s career may have been short, but her impact on Hollywood and popular culture was profound. These films capture her versatility, charm, and enduring appeal.

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