full name: Thomas Leo McCarey
nickname: Leo
born Oct. 3, 1898 (also listed as Oct. 30, 1897), in Los Angeles, CA
died July 5, 1969, in Santa Monica, CA, of emphysema
Since his father was a boxing promoter, it seems natural enough that McCarey's earliest known
occupation was that of an amateur boxer. He gave this up to study law, but that career turned out to be very brief. He
also tried his hand at copper mining, but ran out of money. His first involvement in show business was writing songs and
sketches for vaudeville, but he didn't have any luck with this, either.
1918
Reportedly, McCarey entered the world of movie-making in September of this year. He became a script
clerk for the Mack Sennett studio, and later became a second assistant director. In either 1918 or 1919 (depending on
which source you're reading), he moved on to Universal, where he was an assistant director for Tod Browning.
1920
McCarey continued at Universal, and actually became a director for a brief spell (long enough to
direct one film), before moving on to the Roach studio. Reportedly, it was H. M. Walker who got him the job, having
been a good friend of McCarey's father. Initially, he worked as a gag writer and assistant director. Just when he
arrived at Roach is not entirely clear. Maltin & Bann, in their entry for "Ask Grandma" (no. 38),
suggest that both McCarey and fellow gag writer Frank Capra were writing for the Our Gang series at the time of that film
(late 1924/early 1925). This turns out to be too late of a date for both of them, but Bann adjusts this at the
official Laurel & Hardy website by saying that McCarey was with Roach 'by 1923.' In Randy Skretvedt's
book, he states that McCarey joined Roach in 1920, and this date might be accurate if we imagine it taking place late in
the year. After all, McCarey's last known effort for Universal wasn't released until February of 1921. Surely, the
lack of screen credits through the remainder of 1921, and all of 1922 and 1923, is consistent with gag writing, since that
wasn't a job that resulted in screen credits (nor was assistant directing).
- The Virgin Of Stamboul (co-assistant director)
- Mar. 27, 1920 - Universal-Jewel - 7 reels
1921
The Our Gang series went into pre-production towards the end of 1921, and McCarey was a gag writer for
this series at some point in his early years at Roach. He may very well have been one of the inaugural writers on the
series, and probably contributed until his promotion to director of the Charley Chase series in late 1923. Unfortunately,
writing credits were never given in Roach comedies from this era, so we can only speculate as to which specific films
involved McCarey. It has been written, though, that writing for Our Gang was McCarey's primary duty prior to moving to
the Chase unit.
- Outside The Law (co-assistant director)
- Jan. 6, 1921 - Jewel-Universal - 8 reels
- Premiered Dec. 26, 1920. ©Jan. 25, 1921. McCarey was reportedly allowed to direct one sequence of this film.
- Society Secrets (director)
- Feb. 1921 - Universal - 5 reels
- ©Feb. 18, 1921.
1923
McCarey became director of the Charley Chase shorts in December. His work on the Our Gang series probably
ended at this time.
1924
- Publicity Pays (co-director)
- May 4, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-47 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Dec. 18 to 26, 1923, with retakes Feb. 29, 1924. ©Apr. 18, 1924. McCarey directed on all of the actual
shooting dates, but not during the prep work.
- Rupert Of Hee Haw (co-assistant director)
- June 8, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. L-11 - Stan Laurel series
- Also listed for June 24, 1924. Filmed Dec. 20 to 26, 1923, and Jan. 2 to 12, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Young Oldfield (director)
- June 22, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-56 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Mar. 9 to 17, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was
filmed Mar. 10 to 17, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Stolen Goods (director)
- June 29, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-54 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Feb. 25 to Mar. 1, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was
filmed Feb. 25 to 28, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Jeffries Jnr. (director)
- July 6, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-58 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Mar. 24 to 29, with retakes Mar. 31 to Apr. 1, and Apr. 29, 1924.
According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was filmed Mar. 24 to Apr. 1, 1924, with retakes Apr. 29, 1924. ©May 29, 1924.
- Why Husbands Go Mad (director)
- July 13, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-60 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 7 to 11, 1924. ©June 5, 1924.
- A Ten Minute Egg (director)
- July 20, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - Charley Chase series
- ©July 31, 1924. This was probably production D-64.
- Seeing Nellie Home (director)
- July 27, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-62 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 21 to 26, 1924. ©July 31, 1924.
- Short Kilts (assistant director)
- Aug. 3, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. L-12 - Stan Laurel series
- Also listed for Aug. 11, 1924. Filmed Jan. 16 to 24, 1924. ©Aug. 2, 1924.
- Sweet Daddy (director)
- Aug. 17, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-68 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed June 13 to 18, 1924. ©July 31, 1924.
- Why Men Work (director)
- Aug. 31, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-67 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed May 29 to June 6, 1924, with retakes June 7, July 2 to 3, and July
7 to 8, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was filmed July 2 to 7, 1924, with retakes July 8, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
- Outdoor Pajamas (director)
- Sep. 14, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-69 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed June 23 to 26, 1924, with added scenes July 14 to 15, 1924. This according to Rob Stone's list. According
to Anthony & Edmonds, the added scenes were shot only on the 15th. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
- Sittin' Pretty (director)
- Sep. 28, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-70 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 9 to 12, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
- Too Many Mammas (director)
- Oct. 12, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-71 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 18 to 23, 1924. ©Oct. 29, 1924.
- Bungalow Boobs (director)
- Oct. 26, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-72 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 26 to 29, 1924. ©Oct. 29, 1924.
- Accidental Accidents (director)
- Nov. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-65 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed May 5 to 9, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
- All Wet (director)
- Nov. 23, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-73 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Sep. 10 to 15, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
- The Poor Fish (director)
- Dec. 7, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-74 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Sep. 19 to 25, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, filming
began a day later. ©Dec. 3, 1924.
- The Royal Razz (director)
- Dec. 21, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-75 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 1 to 7, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
1925
McCarey signed a long-term contract with Roach on April 28th of this year.
- The Rat's Knuckles (director)
- Jan. 4, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-76 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 14 to 19, 1924. ©Dec. 26, 1924.
- Hello Baby (director)
- Jan. 18, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-77 - Charley Chase series
- Premiered Jan. 11, 1925. Filmed Oct. 22 to 23, 1924, with retakes Nov. 25, 1924. ©Dec. 26, 1924.
- Fighting Fluid (director)
- Feb. 1, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-78 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 4, 1924. ©Dec. 26, 1924.
- The Family Entrance (director)
- Feb. 15, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-79 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Nov. 10 to 13, 1924. ©Dec. 26, 1924.
- Plain And Fancy Girls (director)
- Mar. 1, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-81 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Feb. 28, 1925. Filmed Dec. 1 to 4, 1924, with added scenes Dec. 9, 1924. ©Feb. 13, 1925.
- Hard-Boiled (director)
- Mar. 15, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-13 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Dec. 22, 1924, to Jan. 5, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- Should Husbands Be Watched? (director)
- Mar. 15, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-80 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Mar. 14, 1925. Filmed Nov. 19 to 22, 1924, with added scenes Dec. 5, 1924. ©Feb. 13, 1925. Also
listed as M-2.
- Is Marriage The Bunk? (director)
- Mar. 29, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-82 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed entirely on Dec. 11, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it
was filmed Dec. 11 to 16, 1924. ©Feb. 13, 1925.
- Bad Boy (director)
- Apr. 12, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-14 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Jan. 16 to 26, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- Big Red Ridinghood (director)
- Apr. 26, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-66 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed May 16 to 24, 1924, with retakes May 26 to 27, 1924. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- Looking For Sally (director/co-writer)
- May 10, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-15 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Feb. 11 to 21, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- What Price Goofy? (director)
- June 7, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-16 - Charley Chase series
- Premiered May 25, 1925. Filmed Mar. 9 to 18, 1925. ©May 18, 1925.
- Isn't Life Terrible? (director)
- July 5, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-17 - Charley Chase series
- Premiered June 17, 1925. Filmed Apr. 6 to 16, 1925. ©May 29, 1925.
- Innocent Husbands (director)
- Aug. 2, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-18 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed May 4 to 14, and May 18 to 22, 1925. ©Aug. 28, 1925.
- No Father To Guide Him (director)
- Sep. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-19 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed June 4 to 19, 1925, with retakes July 2 to 3, 1925. ©Aug. 20, 1925.
- The Caretaker's Daughter (director)
- Oct. 11, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-1 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 6 to 14, 1925. ©Aug. 20, 1925.
- The Uneasy Three (co-director)
- Nov. 15, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-2 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Aug. 5 to 14, 1925, with miniatures filmed Aug. 12 to 15, 1925. McCarey directed all but the miniatures
footage. ©Nov. 6, 1925.
- Hold Everything (uncredited co-director)
- Dec. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-83 - Eddie Borden series
- Filmed Dec. 27, 1924, to Jan. 3, 1925, with retakes and added scenes Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, 1925. ©Mar. 15, 1926.
McCarey directed on Jan. 31st.
- His Wooden Wedding (director)
- Dec. 20, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-3 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Sep. 1 to 12, 1925. ©Dec. 30, 1925.
1926
A new contract between Roach and McCarey was drawn up on November 1st of this year.
- Charley My Boy (director)
- Jan. 24, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-4 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Sep. 28 to Oct. 9, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926. UK title: Charlie, My Boy.
- Mama Behave (director)
- Feb. 28, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-5 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Oct. 27 to Nov. 6, 1925. According to Anthony & Edmonds, the
filming lasted until Nov. 26th. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
- Dog Shy (director)
- Apr. 4, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-6 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Nov. 28 to Dec. 8, 1925. ©Mar. 15, 1926.
- Mum's The Word (director)
- May 9, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-7 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Jan. 4 to 14, 1926. ©Mar. 29, 1926.
- Long Fliv The King (director)
- June 13, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-8 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Feb. 22 to Mar. 6, 1926. ©May 17, 1926.
- Mighty Like A Moose (director)
- July 18, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-9 - Charley Chase series
- Premiered June 21, 1926. Filmed Mar. 20 to Apr. 2, 1926. ©May 26, 1926. Added to the National Film Registry on
Dec. 27, 2007.
- Crazy Like A Fox (director)
- Aug. 22, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-10 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 14 to 22, 1926, with retakes May 28 to June 1, 1926. This is according to Rob Stone's list. His book
states that the retakes were all done on the 28th. ©July 26, 1926.
- Bromo And Juliet (director)
- Sep. 19, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-11 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed May 11 to 25, 1926, with added scenes June 8, 1926. ©July 26, 1926.
- Tell 'Em Nothing (director)
- Oct. 17, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-12 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed June 15 to 26, 1926. ©Oct. 26, 1926.
- Be Your Age (director)
- Nov. 14, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-13 - Charley Chase series
- According to Rob Stone, this was filmed Aug. 13 to 24, 1926. According to Anthony & Edmonds, the filming lasted
all the way to Sep. 24, 1936. Surely the year is an error. ©Oct. 26, 1926.
- There Ain't No Santa Claus (possible director)
- Dec. 12, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-15 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Jan. 9, 1927. Filmed Sep. 27 to Oct. 7, 1926. ©Dec. 31, 1926. Rob Stone's list credits both
McCarey and James Parrott, depending on where you look.
1927
McCarey began to direct other series besides the Charley Chase shorts during 1927, and was instrumental in
the development of the Max Davidson series. He became director-general of the studio towards the end of the year. In
this capacity, he oversaw all of the studio's product with the exception of the Our Gang series, which was
semi-autonomous. Onscreen credit for McCarey during this period was invariably that of 'supervisor.' He's
often credited with the teaming of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, though this seems to have been more of a collaborative
feat. Nevertheless, his influence over their series is undeniable. He did a lot of writing and some occasional directing,
and often would simply visit a set and observe. On December 27th, McCarey became a vice president of the corporation.
- Many Scrappy Returns (possible director)
- Jan. 9, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-14 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Dec. 12, 1926. Filmed Sep. 7 to 14, 1926. ©Nov. 11, 1926. Rob Stone's list credits both
McCarey and James Parrott, depending on where you look.
- Should Men Walk Home? (director)
- Feb. 6, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 3 reels - prod. H-15 - All Star series with Mabel Normand and Creighton Hale
- Also listed as a two reeler, and also listed for Jan. 30, 1927. Filmed Oct. 25 to Nov. 11, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
- Are Brunettes Safe? (possible director)
- Feb. 6, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-16 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 25 to Nov. 4, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927. Rob Stone's list credits both McCarey and James Parrott,
depending on where you look.
- Why Girls Say No (co-director)
- Feb. 20, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. S-16 - All Star series with Marjorie Daw
- Filmed Sep. 9 to 21, 1926, with retakes Sep. 25, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927. Also featuring Max Davidson.
- A One Mama Man (possible director)
- Mar. 6, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-17 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Nov. 26, Nov. 30 to Dec. 6, and Dec. 29, 1926. ©Feb. 14, 1927. Rob Stone's list credits both McCarey
and James Parrott, depending on where you look.
- Jewish Prudence (director/writer)
- May 8, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-16 - Max Davidson series
- Also listed as a 3 reel All Star film. Filmed Dec. 9 to 17, 1926. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
- Eve's Love Letters (director)
- May 29, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-17 - All Star series
- Also listed for May 28, 1927. Filmed Jan. 17 to 28, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927. Featuring Agnes Ayres, Forrest Stanley and Stan Laurel.
- Don't Tell Everything (director)
- July 3, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-18 - Max Davidson series
- Also listed for July 2, 1927. Also listed as an All Star film. Filmed Feb. 22 to Mar. 7, 1927, with retakes Mar. 29,
and Apr. 1 to 2, 1927. ©May 18, 1927.
- Sugar Daddies (supervisor)
- Sep. 10, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-1 - All Star series
- Filmed May 26 to June 3, 1927. ©Aug. 17, 1927. Featuring James Finlayson, Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy.
- What Every Iceman Knows (supervisor/writer)
- Sep. 17, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-1 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed June 3 to 11, 1927. ©Sep. 14, 1927. Includes tinted sequences.
- The Second 100 Years (story)
- Oct. 8, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-2 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed June 11 to 18, 1927. ©Sep. 21, 1927. Includes tinted sequences.
- Call Of The Cuckoos (supervisor)
- Oct. 15, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-2 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed June 13 to 22, 1927, with added scenes Aug. 2, 1927. ©Oct. 12, 1927. Also featuring Charley Chase, James
Finlayson, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.
- Should Second Husbands Come First? (director)
- Oct. 23, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-19 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Apr. 11 to 21, 1927. ©July 8, 1927.
- The Way Of All Pants (supervisor)
- Oct. 29, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-3 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Aug. 12 to 22, 1927. ©Oct. 17, 1927. UK title: The Way Of All Dress.
- Hats Off (supervisor)
- Nov. 5, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-3 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Aug. 19 to 29, 1927. ©Oct. 17, 1927.
- Love 'Em And Feed 'Em (supervisor)
- Nov. 12, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-3 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Aug. 9 to 14, 1927. New ending shot around Sep. 1, 1927. ©Oct. 17, 1927.
- Us (supervisor/writer)
- Nov. 26, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-4 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Sep. 6 to 21, 1927. ©Nov. 22, 1927.
- Putting Pants On Philip (supervisor)
- Dec. 3, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-4 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- According to Rob Stone, this was filmed Sep. 13 to 23, 1927. According to Randy Skretvedt, filming continued until the
27th. ©Jan. 3, 1928. McCarey later claimed to have directed this film himself, but without credit.
- Assistant Wives (supervisor)
- Dec. 4, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-23 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed as Dec. 12, 1927. Filmed May 4 to 17, 1927. ©Sep. 2, 1927.
- Fighting Fathers (writer)
- Dec. 10, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-4 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Aug. 24 to Sep. 2, 1927. ©Nov. 22, 1927.
- Flaming Fathers (supervisor)
- Dec. 18, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. S-25 - All Star series
- Most likely filmed May 5 to 18, 1927, as prod. H-20. ©July 22, 1927.
- Never The Dames Shall Meet (supervisor)
- Dec. 24, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-5 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 5 to 13, 1927. ©Dec. 24, 1927.
- The Battle Of The Century (supervisor)
- Dec. 31, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-5 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Oct. 5 to 13, and 27 to 29, 1927. According to Rob Stone, retakes were shot Nov. 11, 1927, but according to
Randy Skretvedt, these took place on the 12th. ©Jan. 9, 1928.
- undetermined title (director)
- Roach - prod. H-20 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed May 5 to 18, 1927. May have been left unfinished.
1928
In February, McCarey began to receive a percentage of the profits on the Laurel & Hardy series. On
December 28th, his contract as writer-director expired.
- Pass The Gravy (supervisor/writer)
- Jan. 7, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-6 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Oct. 14 to 31, 1927. ©Jan. 9, 1928. Added to the National Film Registry on Nov. 16, 1998.
- All For Nothing (supervisor)
- Jan. 21, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-6 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Feb. 18, 1928. Filmed Oct. 27 to Nov. 4, 1927. ©Jan. 21, 1928.
- Leave 'Em Laughing (supervisor)
- Jan. 28, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-6 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Nov. 3 to 11, 1927, with retakes Nov. 17, 1927. According to Randy Skretvedt, there were also retakes on the
12th. ©Jan. 9, 1928.
- Dumb Daddies (story)
- Feb. 4, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-7 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Nov. 17 to Dec. 1, 1927. ©Feb. 4, 1928.
- The Family Group (supervisor/writer)
- Feb. 18, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-8 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Dec. 12 to 23, 1927. ©Feb. 18, 1928.
- The Finishing Touch (supervisor)
- Feb. 25, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-7 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Dec. 2 to 17, 1927. ©Feb. 25, 1928.
- Came The Dawn (supervisor)
- Mar. 3, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-8 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Dec. 18, 1927, to Jan. 3, 1928. ©Mar. 3, 1928.
- Aching Youth (supervisor/story)
- Mar. 17, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-9 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Jan. 9 to 23, 1928. ©Mar. 17, 1928.
- From Soup To Nuts (supervisor/story)
- Mar. 24, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-8 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Dec. 27, 1927, to Jan. 5, 1928. ©Mar. 24, 1928. Previewed as Let George Do It.
- Blow By Blow (supervisor)
- Mar. 31, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-9 - Max Davidson series
- Also listed for Mar. 21, 1928. Filmed Jan. 9 to 17, 1928. ©Mar. 31, 1928.
- Limousine Love (supervisor)
- Apr. 14, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-10 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Feb. 2 to 14, 1928. ©Apr. 14, 1928.
- You're Darn Tootin' (supervisor)
- Apr. 21, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-9 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Jan. 17 to 27, 1928. ©Apr. 21, 1928. UK title: The Music Blasters.
- Tell It To The Judge (supervisor/story)
- Apr. 28, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-5 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Sep. 9 to Oct. 1, 1927, with retakes Nov. 7 and 10, 1927. ©Apr. 28, 1928.
- The Fight Pest (supervisor/story)
- May 12, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-11 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Feb. 28 to Mar. 8, 1928. ©May 12, 1928.
- Their Purple Moment (supervising director)
- May 19, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-10 - All Star series with Laurel & Hardy
- Filmed Feb. 15 to 24, 1928, with retakes Mar. 7, 1928. ©May 19, 1928.
- Should Women Drive? (supervisor/story)
- May 26, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. D-10 - Max Davidson series
- Filmed Jan. 20 to 30, 1928. ©May 15, 1928.
- Imagine My Embarassment (supervisor/story)
- Sep. 1, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-12 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed May 3 to 9, 1928. ©Sep. 1, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Should Married Men Go Home? (supervisor/co-story)
- Sep. 8, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-11 - Laurel & Hardy series
- According to Randy Skretvedt, this was filmed Mar. 12 to 21, 1928, with added scenes Mar. 23 and May 11, inserts on
May 2, and retakes May 12, 1928. The dates for the initial filming match Rob Stone's information for "That
Night." ©Sep. 8, 1928.
- That Night (supervisor/story)
- Sep. 15, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-11 - All Star series with Max Davidson
- Rob Stone's list includes this film twice. As a Davidson film, it's listed as prod. D-11, which was filmed
Feb. 7 to 14, 1928. As part of the All Star series, it's listed as prod. S-11, which was filmed Mar. 12 to 21,
1928. ©Sep. 15, 1928. Includes tinted sequences.
- Is Everybody Happy? (supervisor/story)
- Sep. 29, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-13 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for Sep. 28, 1928. Filmed June 5 to 13, 1928, with retakes June 29, 1928. ©Sep. 29, 1928. Released
with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Early To Bed (supervisor/uncredited co-director/story)
- Oct. 6, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-12 - Laurel & Hardy series series
- According to Rob Stone, this was filmed June 19 to 20, 1928, with retakes June 25 to 26, 1928. Randy Skretvedt instead
gives the shooting dates for "Do Gentlemen Snore." ©Oct. 6, 1928. McCarey directed the retakes.
- Do Gentlemen Snore? (supervisor/story)
- Oct. 13, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-12 - All Star series with Max Davidson.
- Rob Stone's list includes this film twice. As a Davidson film, it's listed as prod. D-12, which was filmed
May 15 to 19, 1928. As part of the All Star series, it's listed as prod. S-12, which was filmed May 21 to 29,
1928. ©Oct. 13, 1928. Includes tinted sequences.
- All Parts (supervisor/story)
- Oct. 27, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-15 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 27 to Aug. 6, 1928. ©Oct. 27, 1928, and Jan. 22, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Two Tars (supervisor/story)
- Nov. 3, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-13 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed June 22 to July 3, 1928. ©Nov. 3, 1928.
- The Boy Friend (supervisor/story)
- Nov. 10, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-13 - All Star series
- Filmed June 18 to 25, 1928, with retakes June 27, 1928. ©Oct. 15, 1928. Featuring Edgar Kennedy, Marion Byron.
Also listed as part of Max Davidson series.
- The Booster (supervisor/story)
- Nov. 24, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-14 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 9 to 14, 1928, with retakes Sep. 18, 1928. ©Nov. 24, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Habeas Corpus (supervisor/story)
- Dec. 1, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-14 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed July 16 to 21, and July 30 to 31, 1928. ©June 27, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. At least
one source credits McCarey as the director.
- Feed 'Em And Weep (supervisor/story)
- Dec. 8, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-14 - All Star series
- Filmed July 12 to 24, 1928, with retakes Aug. 2, 1928. ©July 1, 1929.
- Chasing Husbands (supervisor/story)
- Dec. 22, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-16 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Sep. 4 to 14, 1928. ©Dec. 6, 1928. Also featuring Jean Harlow.
- We Faw Down (director)
- Dec. 29, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-15 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Aug. 23 to Sep. 1, 1928, with retakes Sep. 13, 1928. Randy Skretvedt adds Sep. 7 for retakes. ©Dec. 29,
1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. UK title: We Slip Up.
1929
McCarey resigned as vice president in January. He moved on to Pathé, where he directed features.
Copyright listings continued to give him story credit on the Roach shorts until 1930. The reason for this is unclear, but
it's possible that he left a stockpile of scenarios in his wake. Or perhaps somebody was simply too much in the habit
of typing his name into that part of the form. His association with Pathé ended by the end of 1929. It's
interesting to note that Richard W. Bann, writing for the official Laurel & Hardy website, dated McCarey's
departure from the Roach studio as taking place on January 26, 1930. This would explain the extended writing credits, but
makes the Pathé portion of his career a bit confusing.
- Going Ga Ga (supervisor/story)
- Jan. 5, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-15 - All Star series
- Filmed Aug. 8 to 21, 1928, with retakes Oct. 1 to 4, 1928. ©Dec. 27, 1928. Featuring Edgar Kennedy, Max Davidson
and Marion Byron.
- Ruby Lips (supervisor/story)
- Jan. 19, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-17 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 5 to 12, 1928. ©Dec. 27, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. Listed by at least one source
as Ruby Love.
- Liberty (supervisor/co-director/story)
- Jan. 26, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-16 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Oct. 1 to 17, 1928, with retakes Nov. 13 to 19, 1928. Randy Skretvedt adds Oct. 26th for retakes. ©Jan.
28, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. McCarey directed every day except Nov. 13th, and received sole credit.
- A Pair Of Tights (supervisor/story)
- Feb. 2, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-16 - All Star series
- Filmed Sep. 19 to 28, 1928. ©Dec. 10, 1928. Featuring Edgar Kennedy, Stuart Erwin, Anita Garvin and Marion Byron.
- Off To Buffalo (supervisor/story)
- Feb. 16, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-18 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, 1928. ©Feb. 4, 1929.
- Wrong Again (director/co-story)
- Feb. 23, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-17 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Nov. 21 to Dec. 1, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- When Money Comes (possible director/story)
- Mar. 2, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-17 - All Star series
- Filmed Oct. 26 to 30, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Loud Soup (supervisor/story)
- Mar. 16, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-19 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Dec. 4 to 8, 1928. ©Mar. 11, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- That's My Wife (supervisor/story)
- Mar. 23, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-18 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Dec. 11 to 16, 1928. ©Mar. 11, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Why Is A Plumber? (possible director/story)
- Mar. 30, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-19 - All Star series
- Also listed for Mar. 11, 1929. Filmed Dec. 13 to 17, 1927. ©Mar. 11, 1929. Featuring Jean Harlow and Edgar
Kennedy. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Thin Twins (supervisor/story)
- Apr. 13, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-20 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Dec. 11 to 17, 1928. ©Mar. 11, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Big Business (supervisor/story)
- Apr. 20, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-19 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Dec. 19 to 26, 1928. ©June 27, 1929. Added to the National Film Registry on Dec. 4, 1992.
- The Unkissed Man (possible director/story)
- Apr. 27, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-18 - All Star series
- Filmed Dec. 3 to 8, 1928, with added scenes Dec. 28, 1928. ©May 20, 1929. Featuring Jean Harlow and Bryant
Washburn. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Unaccustomed As We Are (story)
- May 4, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-23 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Mar. 25 to 30, 1929, with retakes Apr. 1, 1929. ©Dec. 10, 1929.
- Movie Night (story)
- May 11, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. C-7 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Nov. 21 to Dec. 2, 1927, with retakes Dec. 18 to 22, 1928. ©Apr. 1, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Hurdy Gurdy (possible director/story)
- May 11, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. S-21 - All Star series
- Filmed Apr. 2 to 6, 1929. ©June 5, 1929. Featuring Edgar Kennedy. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Double Whoopee (story)
- May 18, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. L-20 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Feb. 5 to 9, 1929. ©May 13, 1929.
- The Big Squawk (story)
- May 25, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. C-21 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 8 to 13, 1929. ©July 29, 1929.
- Thundering Toupees (story)
- May 25, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. S-20 - All Star series
- Filmed Dec. 20 to 27, 1928. ©June 27, 1929. Featuring Jean Harlow and Edgar Kennedy. The ledgers credit Roach as
the director, but Robert McGowan received onscreen credit.
- Berth Marks (story)
- June 1, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-24 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Apr. 15 to 18, Apr. 22, and Apr. 24, 1929. ©Dec. 9, 1929. Also released as a silent film. Reissued in 1936
with new soundtrack music.
- Madame "Q" (possible director/story)
- June 8, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. S-22 - All Star series
- Filmed Apr. 11 to 15, 1929. ©July 1, 1929. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Leaping Love (story)
- June 22, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. C-22 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 29 to May 3, 1929. ©Dec. 9, 1929.
- Men O'War (story)
- June 29, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-25 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed May 7 to 15, 1929, with Hollenbeck Park filming taking place May 11 to 18, 1929. ©July 29, 1929.
- Dad's Day (possible director/story)
- July 6, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. S-23 - All Star series
- Also listed for July 7, 1929. Filmed May 13 to 17, 1929. ©July 29, 1929. Featuring Edgar Kennedy. McCarey is credited in IMDb.
- Snappy Sneezer (story)
- July 27, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. C-23 - Charley Chase series
- Also listed for July 29, 1929. Filmed May 25 to 30, 1929. ©Aug. 12, 1929.
- Perfect Day (co-story)
- Aug. 10, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-26 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed June 3 to 8, 1929. ©Aug. 12, 1929.
- The Sophomore (director)
- Aug. 24, 1929 - Pathé - talkie - 8 reels
- ©Sep. 16, 1929. UK title: Compromised. Also released in a silent version.
- Crazy Feet (story)
- Sep. 7, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. C-24 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed June 20 to 27, 1929. ©Aug. 26, 1929.
- They Go Boom (story)
- Sep. 21, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-27 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed June 26 to 27, July 1, and July 5 to 11, 1929. ©Aug. 26, 1929.
- Sky Boy (story)
- Oct. 5, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. S-25 - All Star series with Harry Langdon
- Filmed July 16 to 22, 1929. ©Sep. 23, 1929.
- Bacon Grabbers (supervising director/story)
- Oct. 19, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. L-21 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Feb. 18 to 27, 1929. ©Sep. 3, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- Stepping Out (producer/story)
- Nov. 2, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. C-25 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed July 16 to 22, 1929. ©Sep. 23, 1929.
- The Hoose-Gow (story)
- Nov. 16, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. L-28 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Aug. 30 to Sep. 10, 1929. ©Nov. 11, 1929.
- Red Hot Rhythm (director/co-supervisor-co-story)
- Nov. 23, 1929 - Pathé - talkie - 9 reels
- ©Dec. 27, 1929. Includes some Technicolor footage. Also released in a silent version.
- Angora Love (supervisor/story)
- Dec. 14, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. L-22 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Mar. 8 to 14, 1929. Previewed in late Mar. 1929. ©Sep. 3, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
1930
McCarey seems to have gone through a period of freelancing over the next few years.
- Night Owls (story)
- Jan. 4, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-29 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 12, 1929. ©Jan. 6, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Ladrones, and possibly German.
The Italian version, entitled Ladroni, was probably dubbed.
- The Real McCoy (story)
- Feb. 1, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-27 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Oct. 14 to 21, 1929. ©Dec. 26, 1929.
- Blotto (story)
- Feb. 8, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 3 reels - prod. L-30 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Dec. 11 to 21, 1929. ©Feb. 13, 1930. Also filmed as Spanish 5 reeler entitled La vida nocturna and
in French as Une nuit extravagante. Foreign versions filmed Dec. 26, 1929, to Jan. 2, 1930, and Jan. 17, 1930.
Randy Skretvedt provides a variation of this, stating that the domestic resumed filming from Dec. 26 to 31, 1929, with the
foreign versions being filmed from Jan. 2 to 17, 1930. The English language version was re-released as a
two-reeler in 1937.
- Brats (co-writer)
- Mar. 22, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-31 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Jan. 21 to Feb. 7, 1930. ©Mar. 31, 1930. Also filmed in German as Gluckliche kindheit, and in
French as Les Bons Petits Diables, and possibly in Spanish. Also released as a silent film.
- All Teed Up (story)
- Apr. 19, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-28 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Jan. 3 to Feb. 1, 1930. ©Apr. 7, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as El Jugador de Golf and in French
as Le Joueur de Golf. Both versions were in four reels. The Spanish version was released in Mexico on May 8, 1930,
and in Barcelona, Spain, on May 19, 1930.
- Below Zero (story)
- Apr. 26, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-32 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Feb. 17 to 28, 1930. ©Apr. 14, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Tiembla y titubea and possibly in German.
- Hog Wild (story)
- May 31, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. L-33 - Laurel & Hardy series
- Filmed Apr. 4 to 21, 1930. ©Dec. 3, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Radio mania and in French as Pele Mele.
- Fast Work (story)
- June 28, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-31 - Charley Chase series
- Filmed Apr. 3 to 19, 1930. ©May 22, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish, with added scenes May 23 to 24, 1930, and
released as Locuras de Amor, which was prod. C-31-S and five reels in length. Alternate title: Ay
Amor, Como me has Puesto!. Released in Chile on Sep. 2, 1930, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Oct. 23, 1930, and in
Barcelona, Spain, on Dec. 12, 1930. The Mexican version totaled 50 minutes.
- Wild Company (director)
- July 5, 1930 - Fox - 71 min.
- ©June 16, 1930.
- Let's Go Native (producer/director)
- Aug. 16, 1930 - Paramount - 9 reels
- ©Aug. 15, 1930.
- Part Time Wife (director/co-screenplay and dialogue)
- Dec. 28, 1930 - Fox - 72 min.
- Premiered Nov. 30, 1930. ©Nov. 18, 1930.
1931
- Indiscreet (director/uncredited co-writer)
- May 16, 1931 - Feature/UA - 10 reels - Gloria Swanson feature
- Premiered Apr. 25, 1931. ©Apr. 6, 1931. Also known as Careless Heart. Credited as co-author in copyright deposit.
1932
- The Kid From Spain (director)
- prem. Nov. 17, 1932 - Goldwyn/UA - 11 reels - Eddie Cantor feature
- ©Jan. 1, 1933.
1933
During this year, McCarey signed up with Paramount, where he would direct comedies for the next four years.
- Duck Soup (director)
- Nov. 17, 1933 - Paramount - 7 reels - Marx Bros. feature
- ©Nov. 17, 1933. Added to the National Film Registry on Oct. 19, 1990.
1934
- Six Of A Kind (director)
- Feb. 9, 1934 - Paramount - 7 reels
- ©Feb. 7, 1934. Premiered Jan. 24, 1934.
- Belle Of The Nineties (director)
- Sep. 21, 1934 - Paramount - 8 reels - Mae West feature
- ©Sep. 21, 1934.
1935
- Ruggles Of Red Gap (director)
- Mar. 8, 1935 - Paramount - 10 reels - Charles Laughton feature
- Premiered Feb. 19, 1935. ©Feb. 19, 1935. Nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Picture category.
1936
- The Milky Way (co-director)
- Feb. 7, 1936 - Lloyd/Paramount - 10 reels - Harold Lloyd feature
- ©Feb. 11, 1936. McCarey received sole credit.
1937
With Paramount's pessimism regarding "Make Way For Tomorrow,"
McCarey agreed to finish the film without pay. When the film flopped, Paramount released him from his contract. This led
to a short period of freelancing.
- Make Way For Tomorrow (producer/director/extra roles)
- prem. May 9, 1937 - Paramount - 10 reels
- ©Apr. 30, 1937. McCarey's extra roles were that of a passerby, the man in the overcoat, and the carpet sweeper.
- The Awful Truth (producer/director)
- Oct. 21, 1937 - Columbia - 10 reels - Cary Grant & Irene Dunne feature
- ©Oct. 15, 1937. Won the Academy Award for Best Director. Also nominated for Best Picture. Added to the National
Film Registry on Dec. 4, 1996.
1938
There were some negotiations during this period that could have resulted in McCarey taking charge of a
unit at the Roach studio, but he instead opted to sign with RKO.
- The Cowboy And The Lady (co-story)
- prem. Nov. 24, 1938 - Goldwyn/UA - 9 reels - Gary Cooper feature
- ©Nov. 30, 1938.
1939
- Love Affair (producer/director/co-story)
- prem. Mar 16, 1939 - RKO Radio - 87 min. - Charles Boyer & Irene Dunne feature
- ©Mar. 16, 1939. Nominated for Academy Awards in the Best Picture and Best Writing, Original Story categories.
1940
After "My Favorite Wife," McCarey got involved in a court battle with Howard Hughes over a film
that eventually went unmade. As a result, it was two years before the next McCarey film was released.
- My Favorite Wife (producer/co-original story)
- May 17, 1940 - RKO Radio - 88 min. - Cary Grant & Irene Dunne feature
- ©May 17, 1940. Premiered May 2, 1940. Nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Writing, Original Story
category. McCarey handed over directorial duties to Garson Kanin to allow himself time to recuperate from a near-fatal car accident.
1942
- Once Upon A Honeymoon (producer/director/co-story)
- Nov. 27, 1942 - RKO Radio - 117 min. - Cary Grant & Ginger Rogers feature
- Premiered Nov. 12, 1942. ©Nov. 4, 1942.
1944
With the success of "Going My Way," McCarey formed his own company, Rainbow Productions, with
partners Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Hal Roach, Jr.
- Going My Way (producer/director/story)
- prem. May 3, 1944 - Paramount - 130 min. - Bing Crosby feature
- ©Feb. 25, 1944. Oscar winner for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Story. Added to the National Film
Registry on Dec. 28, 2004.
1945
- The Bells Of St. Mary's (producer/director/story)
- prem. Dec. 6, 1945 - Rainbow/RKO - 126 min. - Bing Crosby feature
- ©Dec. 6, 1945. Nominated for Academy Awards in the Best Picture and Best Director categories. Also won the Photoplay Gold Medal.
1946
- The Screen Guild Theater radio episode: The Bells Of St. Mary's (story)
- Aug. 26, 1946 - CBS - radio episode
1947
Towards the end of this year, McCarey sold his 50% interest in Rainbow Productions to Paramount. This
began a long period in which McCarey's film output decreased dramatically.
- The Screen Guild Theater radio episode: The Bells Of St. Mary's (story)
- Oct. 6, 1947 - CBS - radio episode
- A repeat performance of the story previously aired on Aug. 26, 1946.
1948
Reportedly, McCarey expressed interest in directing the last Marx Brothers film, "Love Happy,"
but this never came to fruition. Whatever negotiations that took place probably would have been during 1948, since filming
began towards the end of the year. The film premiered on October 12, 1949, without contribution from McCarey.
- Good Sam (producer/director/co-story/songwriter)
- Sep. 1, 1948 - Rainbow/RKO - 114 min. - Gary Cooper feature
- ©Aug. 18, 1948. McCarey wrote the song "Eight To Five."
1951
- The Screen Director (appearance as himself)
- Mar. 13, 1951 - AMPAS/Warner Bros. - 9 reels - documentary
- You Can Change The World (director)
- 1951 - Christophers - short
1952
- My Son John (producer/director/story/voiceover: John Jefferson)
- Apr. 8, 1952 - Rainbow/Paramount - 122 min.
- ©Apr. 1, 1952. Nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Writing, Motion Picture Story category.
1954
- This Is Your Life episode: Stan Laurel And Oliver Hardy (appearance)
- Dec. 1, 1954 - Edwards/NBC - 30 min. - TV episode
1955
McCarey was back at the Roach studio during this year, writing and occasionally directing for the TV
series "Screen Directors Playhouse."
- Screen Directors Playhouse episode: Meet The Governor (director)
- Oct. 5, 1955 - Roach/NBC - 30 min. - TV episode
- ©Oct. 5, 1955.
- Screen Directors Playhouse episode: Tom And Jerry (director/songwriter)
- Nov. 30, 1955 - Roach/NBC - 30 min. - TV episode
- ©Nov. 30, 1955. McCarey wrote the song "Don't Say Goodbye To Love" for this episode.
1956
- Lux Video Theatre episode: Indiscreet (original screenplay)
- May 31, 1956 - Thompson/NBC - 30 min. - TV episode
- This was an adaptation of the 1931 McCarey film.
1957
By this year, McCarey had begun his association with 20th Century-Fox, which lasted until the end of his film career.
- An Affair To Remember (producer/director/co-story/co-lyricist)
- July 11, 1957 - 20th-Fox - DeLuxe - CinemaScope - 119 min. - Cary Grant feature
- Premiered July 2, 1957. ©July 19, 1957. Released in stereo. Nominated for a DGA Award in the Outstanding
Directorial Achievement in Motion Pictures category. Also won the Photoplay Gold Medal. McCarey co-wrote the lyrics
for "An Affair To Remember (Our Love Affair)," "Continué," "The Tiny Scout (He
Knows You Inside Out)," "Tomorrow Land" and "You Make It Easy To Be True." This film was a
remake of McCarey's 1939 triumph "Love Affair."
1958
- The 30th Annual Academy Awards (co-lyricist)
- Mar. 26, 1958 - AMPAS/NBC - TV special
- Vic Damone performed "An Affair To Remember" from the film of the same name.
- The Ed Sullivan Show episode (appearance)
- Dec. 28, 1958 - Sullivan/CBS - 60 min. - TV episode
1959
- Rally 'Round The Flag, Boys! (producer/director/co-screenplay/co-screenplay)
- Feb. 1959 - 20th-Fox - DeLuxe - CinemaScope - 106 min. - Paul Newman feature
- Premiered Dec. 23, 1958. ©Dec. 24, 1958. Released in stereo. Nominated for DGA Award in the Outstanding
Directorial Achievement in Motion Pictures category. Also nominated for Golden Laurel in the Top Comedy category.
1962
- Satan Never Sleeps (producer/director/co-screenplay/co-songwriter)
- prem. Feb. 22, 1962 - 20th-Fox - DeLuxe - CinemaScope - 15 reels - William Holden feature
- ©Mar. 1, 1962. UK title: The Devil Never Sleeps. McCarey co-wrote the song "Satan Never Sleeps."
1963
- Move Over, Darling (co-writer of 1940 story)
- Dec. 25, 1963 - Melcher-Arcola/20th-Fox - DeLuxe - CinemaScope - 103 min. - Doris Day & James Garner feature
- Premiered Dec. 19, 1963. ©Dec. 19, 1963. McCarey co-wrote the story for the 1940 film "My Favorite
Wife," of which this was a remake. It appears that he wasn't directly involved in this film.
1973
- Laurel Und Hardy Auf Der Jagd Nach Dem Mammon (archival)
- Mar. 9, 1973 - VEB - 91 min. - Laurel & Hardy compilation feature
- Released in East Germany. Consists of "From Soup To Nuts," "Early To Bed," "Habeas
Corpus" and "Liberty."
1976
- That's Entertainment, Part II (archival)
- May 17, 1976 - MGM - Metrocolor - Panavision - 133 min. - documentary feature
- Premiered May 16, 1976. Included is footage from "The Finishing Touch."
1993
- Sleepless In Seattle (co-lyricist)
- June 25, 1993 - Columbia TriStar - Technicolor - Dolby - Panavision - 105 min.
- The soundtrack includes the song "An Affair To Remember (Our Love Affair)," the lyrics of which were co-written by McCarey.
1994
- Hal Roach: Hollywood's King Of Laughter (archival)
- Apr. 7, 1994 - RHI/Disney Channel - 49 min. - TV documentary
- Includes footage from "Perfect Day," "The Hoose-Gow," "Blotto," "Brats," "Below Zero" and "Hog
Wild."
- The Our Gang Story (archival)
- 1994 - Film Show/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary
- Includes footage from "Innocent Husbands."
- Love Affair (co-writer of 1939 story)
- Oct. 21, 1994 - Mulholland/Warner Bros. - Technicolor - 108 min. - Warren Beatty & Annette Bening feature
- This was a remake of the 1939 McCarey film.
1998
- Hal Roach: The Lot Of Fun (archival)
- June 27, 1998 - Film Preservation Associates/Kino Lorber - 133 min. - video documentary
- Released on "Slapstick Encyclopedia Vol. 6."
2002
- Added Attractions: The Hollywood Shorts Story
(appearance)
- Feb. 5, 2002 - Jones/TCM - 89 min. - TV documentary
- Includes footage from "Perfect Day" and "La Vida Nocturna."
- Reel Radicals: The Sixties Revolution In Film (archival)
- Apr. 2, 2002 - Surreal Life/AMC - 127 min. - TV documentary
- Includes footage of McCarey.
2003
- How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days (co-lyricist)
- Feb. 7, 2003 - Paramount - color - Panavision - DTS/Dolby - 116 min.
- Premiered Jan. 27, 2003. The soundtrack includes the song "An Affair To Remember," the lyrics of which were
co-written by McCarey.
2004
- Garfield (co-lyricist)
- June 11, 2004 - Davis/20th-Fox - Technicolor/DeLuxe - Panavision - SDDS/DTS/Dolby - 80 min.
- Included in the soundtrack is the song "An Affair To Remember (End Title)," the lyrics of which were
co-written by McCarey.
2014
- Hollywoods Spaßfabrik - Als die Bilder Lachen lernten (archival)
- May 29, 2014 - Exit Film-und Fernsehproduktion-ZDF/ARTE - 90 min. - TV documentary
- Also released in English as Hal Roach - The Lot Of Fun: Where The Movies Learned To Laugh. Includes footage from "The Caretaker's
Daughter," "Putting Pants On Philip," "The Battle Of The Century," "You're Darn Tootin'," "Liberty,"
"Big Business," "Perfect Day," "Angora Love" and "Blotto."
See anything that needs changing? Contact me at BtheW@aol.com.