
In the 1940, Francis headed for Hollywood to start an acting career. His plans were initially interrupted by the Second World War, during which he served in the medical detachment of the 49th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division. He played minor parts in several films from the late 1940s to early 1970s.
In 1959, Francis formed a partnership with Anthony Cardoza, a welder by trade, and together they created three films: The Beast of Yucca Flats (1961), The Skydivers (1963) and Red Zone Cuba (1966). Francis wrote and directed the films, while Cardoza handled production duties.

Beyond the Valley of the Dolls
1970 · as Rotund Drunk

Cimarron
1960 · as Mr. Geer (uncredited)

Red Zone Cuba
1966 · as Griffin / Narrator

This Island Earth
1955 · as Express Deliveryman (uncredited)

Mondo Hollywood
1967

T-Bird Gang
1959 · as Capt. Prell

Motorpsycho!
1965 · as Harry Bonner

The Dirtiest Game
1970 · as R.J.

The Thrill Killers
1964 · as Narrator (uncredited)

The Beast of Yucca Flats
1961 · as Narrator / Gas Station Attendant / Newspaper Customer

Stakeout on Dope Street
1958 · as Detective

Body Fever
1969 · as Coley

The Lemon Grove Kids Meet the Monsters
1968 · as "Big Ed" Narzak / Mr. Miller

The Skydivers
1963 · as Spectator / Gunman in Plane (uncredited)

The Jailbreakers
1960

Last of the American Hoboes
1967 · as Hobo (uncredited)