FeatureDrama

Elmer Gantry (1960): cast, story & where to watch

1960 · Film · ★ 7.3

Elmer Gantry poster

Released in 1960, Elmer Gantry is a drama film directed by Richard Brooks, running about 146 minutes. “If there was a dollar to be made—Gantry would make it … If there was a soul to be saved—Gantry would save it …” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. When hedonistic but charming con man Elmer Gantry meets the beautiful Sister Sharon Falconer, a roadside revivalist, he feigns piousness to join her act as a passionate preacher. The two make a successful onstage pair, and their chemistry extends to romance. Both the show and their relationship are threatened, however, when one of Gantry's ex-lovers decides that she has a score to settle with the charismatic performer.

Who’s in it. Elmer Gantry stars Burt Lancaster as Elmer Gantry, Jean Simmons as Sister Sharon Falconer, Arthur Kennedy as Jim Lefferts and Dean Jagger as William L. Morgan, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.3/10, Elmer Gantry has been warmly received by audiences. It went on to earn $10.4M at the box office.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on YouTube TV, ScreenPix Apple TV Channel and ScreenPix Amazon Channel . See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Elmer Gantry page.

If you liked it. Fans of Elmer Gantry tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Elmer Gantry (1960)?
In US, Elmer Gantry is available to stream on YouTube TV, ScreenPix Apple TV Channel and ScreenPix Amazon Channel . Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
Is Elmer Gantry worth watching?
Elmer Gantry holds an audience score of 7.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Most viewers rate it highly.
Who stars in Elmer Gantry?
Elmer Gantry stars Burt Lancaster, Jean Simmons, Arthur Kennedy, Dean Jagger and Shirley Jones.
When was Elmer Gantry released?
Elmer Gantry was released in 1960, with a runtime of about 146 minutes.