Alan Rickman was a highly talented actor known for his distinct voice and memorable performances. He had a prolific career spanning over three decades, and his versatility as an actor allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from villains to romantic leads.

Throughout his career, he delivered several outstanding performances that have left a lasting impact on the audiences.

Best Alan Rickman Movies

In this article, we will explore some of the best Alan Rickman movies that showcase his exceptional acting skills and highlight why he was considered a beloved and highly respected figure in the film industry.

1.Die Hard (1988)

“Die Hard” is a 1988 action film directed by John McTiernan, and it stars Bruce Willis as John McClane, a New York City cop who finds himself trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper when it is taken over by a group of terrorists.

Alan Rickman plays the role of Hans Gruber, the mastermind behind the terrorist plot.

Rickman’s portrayal of Gruber is widely regarded as one of the greatest movie villains of all time. He delivers a menacing performance, with a calm and collected demeanor that makes him all the more terrifying.

He also has some iconic lines, such as “Now I have a machine gun, ho ho ho,” which have become part of pop culture.

Overall, “Die Hard” is a classic action movie that owes much of its success to Alan Rickman’s unforgettable performance as Hans Gruber.

Die Hard [DVD]
  • Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia (Actors)
  • John McTiernan (Director) - Jeb Stuart (Writer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

2.The January Man (1989)

“The January Man” is a 1989 comedy-drama film directed by Pat O’Connor, and it stars Kevin Kline as a former cop who is recruited by his brother, the mayor of New York City, to catch a serial killer who has been terrorizing the city.

Alan Rickman plays the role of Ed, an eccentric artist who is also the best friend of Kline’s character.

While “The January Man” was not a critical or commercial success, Alan Rickman’s performance as Ed was praised by many critics. He brings a quirky charm to the role and has some of the film’s funniest lines. Rickman’s chemistry with Kevin Kline is also a highlight of the movie.

Overall, “The January Man” may not be one of Alan Rickman’s most well-known films, but his performance in it is certainly worth watching for his fans.

   

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The January Man
  • Kevin Kline, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Susan Sarandon (Actors)
  • Pat O'Connor (Director) - John Patrick Shanley (Writer)
  • English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

3.Quigley Down Under (1990)

“Quigley Down Under” is a 1990 Western film directed by Simon Wincer, and it stars Tom Selleck as Matthew Quigley, a sharpshooter from America who travels to Australia to work for a wealthy landowner.

Alan Rickman plays the role of Elliot Marston, a cruel and ruthless villain who clashes with Quigley throughout the film.

Alan Rickman’s performance as Elliot Marston is one of the highlights of “Quigley Down Under.”

If you like Alan Rickman’s performances, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.

He brings a quiet intensity to the role, and his interactions with Tom Selleck’s character are some of the best moments of the movie. Rickman’s portrayal of Marston is both menacing and complex, making him a memorable villain.

Overall, “Quigley Down Under” is a solid Western movie that features a strong performance from Alan Rickman as the film’s antagonist.

   

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4.Truly Madly Deeply (1990)

“Truly Madly Deeply” is a 1990 British romantic drama directed by Anthony Minghella, and it stars Juliet Stevenson as a woman named Nina who is grieving the loss of her boyfriend Jamie, played by Alan Rickman.

After Jamie returns as a ghost, Nina must navigate her feelings of love and loss while also learning to let go.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Truly Madly Deeply” is nothing short of incredible. He brings a warmth and vulnerability to the role of Jamie, and his chemistry with Juliet Stevenson is palpable.

The film’s exploration of grief and love is handled with sensitivity, and Rickman’s performance is a major reason why the movie resonates so deeply with audiences.

Overall, “Truly Madly Deeply” is a poignant and moving film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a must-watch for fans of his work and for anyone who enjoys a heartfelt romance with a touch of the supernatural.

Truly Madly Deeply [DVD]
  • Juliet Stevenson, Alan Rickman, Jenny Howe (Actors)
  • Anthony Minghella (Director) - Anthony Minghella (Writer)
  • English, Spanish, French (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

5.Closet Land (1991)

“Closet Land” is a 1991 independent film directed by Radha Bharadwaj, and it stars Alan Rickman as a government agent who interrogates a children’s author, played by Madeleine Stowe, accusing her of embedding subversive messages in her books.

The film takes place entirely in one room and is essentially a two-hander between Rickman and Stowe. Rickman’s performance in “Closet Land” is intense and chilling, as he uses psychological manipulation and torture to try and break Stowe’s character.

The film deals with themes of censorship and authoritarianism and is a powerful critique of oppressive regimes.

Overall, “Closet Land” is a disturbing but compelling film that showcases Alan Rickman’s range as an actor. He is able to convey both the brutality and the humanity of his character, making him a compelling and complex antagonist.

   

6.Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)

“Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” is a 1991 adventure film directed by Kevin Reynolds, and it stars Kevin Costner as the legendary outlaw Robin Hood.

Alan Rickman plays the role of the Sheriff of Nottingham, the film’s main antagonist who is determined to capture Robin Hood and maintain his power over the people of Nottingham.

Alan Rickman’s performance as the Sheriff of Nottingham in “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” is one of the most iconic roles of his career.

He brings a sense of humor and flamboyance to the character, making him both entertaining and menacing. Rickman’s portrayal of the Sheriff is one of the highlights of the movie, and he steals every scene he is in.

Overall, “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” is a classic adventure film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman as the film’s villain. His performance is a major reason why the movie remains so popular with audiences today.

7.Close My Eyes (1991)

“Close My Eyes” is a 1991 British drama film directed by Stephen Poliakoff, and it stars Clive Owen and Saskia Reeves as a brother and sister who reunite and begin a romantic relationship.

Alan Rickman plays the role of Sinclair, a wealthy businessman who is also the lover of Reeves’ character.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Close My Eyes” is subtle and nuanced, as he brings a sense of complexity and vulnerability to the character of Sinclair.

The film deals with taboo themes such as incest and societal expectations, and Rickman’s performance helps to explore these themes with sensitivity and depth.

Overall, “Close My Eyes” is a thought-provoking film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a challenging and complex movie that is worth watching for fans of his work and for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas

Close My Eyes (Repackage) [DVD] [1991]
  • Close My Eyes
  • Close My Eyes
  • Alan Rickman, Clive Owen, Saskia Reeves (Actors)
  • Stephen Poliakoff (Director) - Close My Eyes (Producer)
  • English (Subtitle)

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8.Bob Roberts (1992)

“Bob Roberts” is a 1992 satirical comedy film written, directed, and starring Tim Robbins. Alan Rickman plays the role of Lukas Hart III, a British journalist who is investigating the political campaign of the titular character, played by Robbins.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Bob Roberts” is understated but effective. He brings a sense of skepticism and cynicism to the role of Lukas Hart III, who is a critical observer of the political landscape.

The film is a sharp critique of the American political system and the manipulation of the media, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey these themes in a subtle but powerful way.

Overall, “Bob Roberts” is a clever and biting satire that features a strong performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that is still relevant today and is worth watching for its commentary on politics and the media.

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Bob Roberts
  • Bob Roberts (Special Edition) - DVD Brand New
  • Amurri, Eva, Atkins, Tom, Dale, Merrilee (Actors)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

9.Mesmer (1994)

“Mesmer” is a 1994 historical drama directed by Roger Spottiswoode, and it stars Alan Rickman as Franz Anton Mesmer, an 18th-century physician who developed a controversial theory of animal magnetism.

The film explores Mesmer’s life and work, as well as his relationships with his patients and colleagues.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Mesmer” is captivating, as he brings a sense of intelligence and charisma to the role of Franz Anton Mesmer.

   

The film is a fascinating exploration of a little-known figure in history, and Rickman’s performance helps to bring Mesmer to life in a compelling way.

Overall, “Mesmer” is a thought-provoking film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of historical dramas and those who are interested in the history of medicine and psychology.

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Mesmer (Unrated Director's Cut)
  • Alan Rickman, Amanda Ooms, Peter Dvorsky (Actors)
  • Roger Spottiswoode (Director)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

10.An Awfully Big Adventure (1995)

“An Awfully Big Adventure” is a 1995 British comedy-drama film directed by Mike Newell, and it stars Hugh Grant and Georgina Cates. Alan Rickman plays the role of P.L. O’Hara, a theatre director who hires Cates’ character as an assistant stage manager.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “An Awfully Big Adventure” is a highlight of the film. He brings a sense of wit and charm to the role of P.L.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPBkA3GuvcY&pp=ygUnQW4gQXdmdWxseSBCaWcgQWR2ZW50dXJlICgxOTk1KSB0cmFpbGVy

O’Hara, who is a complex and flawed character. The film deals with themes of love and loss, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey these themes with humor and sensitivity.

Overall, “An Awfully Big Adventure” is a delightful film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of British comedy-dramas and those who enjoy character-driven stories.

An Awfully Big Adventure
  • Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Georgina Cates (Actors)
  • Mike Newell (Director)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

11.Sense and Sensibility (1995)

“Sense and Sensibility” is a 1995 British period drama film directed by Ang Lee, and it stars Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant.

Alan Rickman plays the role of Colonel Brandon, a reserved and honorable gentleman who falls in love with Marianne Dashwood, played by Winslet.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Sense and Sensibility” is exquisite, as he brings a sense of depth and dignity to the character of Colonel Brandon.

The film is a faithful adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, and Rickman’s performance helps to capture the spirit of the book in a nuanced and heartfelt way.

Overall, “Sense and Sensibility” is a classic period drama that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of Austen’s work and those who enjoy romantic dramas with a touch of sophistication.

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12.Michael Collins (1996)

“Michael Collins” is a 1996 historical biopic directed by Neil Jordan, and it stars Liam Neeson as Michael Collins, an Irish revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the Irish War of Independence. Alan Rickman plays the role of Eamon de Valera, a political rival of Collins.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Michael Collins” is powerful, as he brings a sense of ambition and intensity to the role of Eamon de Valera.

The film is a fascinating exploration of Irish history and the struggle for independence, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey the complex political landscape of the time.

Overall, “Michael Collins” is a thought-provoking film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of historical dramas and those who are interested in Irish history and politics.

Michael Collins
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Stephen Rea (Actors)
  • Neil Jordan (Director) - Neil Jordan (Writer) - Stephen Woolley (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

13.Judas Kiss (1998)

“Judas Kiss” is a 1998 crime thriller directed by Sebastian Gutierrez, and it stars Alan Rickman as a corrupt detective named David Friedman.

   

The film follows Friedman as he investigates a murder case involving a young woman, played by Emma Thompson, who may be hiding a dark secret.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Judas Kiss” is a standout, as he brings a sense of danger and unpredictability to the character of David Friedman.

The film is a tense and gripping thriller, and Rickman’s performance helps to ratchet up the tension and keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Overall, “Judas Kiss” is a gripping and intense film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of crime thrillers and those who enjoy complex and morally ambiguous characters.

14.Dark Harbor (1998)

“Dark Harbor” is a 1998 thriller directed by Adam Coleman Howard, and it stars Alan Rickman and Polly Walker as a married couple who invite a stranger, played by Norman Reedus, to their remote island home.

The film explores the dynamics of their relationship and the stranger’s true intentions.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Dark Harbor” is subtle and nuanced, as he brings a sense of complexity and vulnerability to the character of David Weinberg.

The film is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark corners of the human psyche, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey the tension and unease of the situation.

Overall, “Dark Harbor” is a suspenseful and thought-provoking film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and those who enjoy character-driven stories.

Dark Harbor
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

15.Dogma (1999)

“Dogma” is a 1999 comedy film directed by Kevin Smith, and it stars Ben Affleck and Matt Damon as two fallen angels who attempt to exploit a loophole in Catholic doctrine to gain entrance into heaven.

Alan Rickman plays the role of the Metatron, an angel who acts as a messenger for God.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Dogma” is hilarious, as he brings a sense of dry wit and sarcasm to the role of the Metatron.

The film is a satire of religion and religious beliefs, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey the absurdity of some of the theological concepts being explored.

Overall, “Dogma” is a clever and irreverent film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of Kevin Smith’s work and those who enjoy comedies with a touch of satire.

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Dogma
  • Dogma - DVD Brand New
  • Linda Fiorentino, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon (Actors)
  • Kevin Smith (Director) - Kevin Smith (Producer)
  • English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

16.Galaxy Quest (1999)

“Galaxy Quest” is a 1999 science fiction comedy film directed by Dean Parisot, and it stars Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and Alan Rickman.

The film parodies the conventions of science fiction TV shows and conventions, as a group of actors from a cancelled TV series are mistaken for actual space heroes and must save a race of aliens from a hostile alien race.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Galaxy Quest” is a standout, as he brings a sense of gravitas and seriousness to the role of Alexander Dane, a classically trained actor who is forced to play an alien character on the TV series.

The film is a hilarious send-up of science fiction tropes and fandom culture, and Rickman’s performance helps to ground the movie in a sense of reality.

Overall, “Galaxy Quest” is a hilarious and affectionate tribute to science fiction and its fans, and it features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of science fiction and those who enjoy comedies with a touch of self-awareness.

Galaxy Quest (Widescreen Edition) [DVD]
  • Comedy DVD
  • Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman (Actors)
  • Dean Parisot (Director)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

17.Blow Dry (2001)

“Blow Dry” is a 2001 British comedy-drama directed by Paddy Breathnach, and it stars Alan Rickman as Phil, a former hairdressing champion who now runs a small-town salon.

The film follows Phil and his team as they compete in a national hairdressing competition against their rivals.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “Blow Dry” is charming and funny, as he brings a sense of warmth and humor to the role of Phil.

The film is a light-hearted comedy with a heartwarming message about the power of friendship and family, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey these themes with sincerity and wit.

Overall, “Blow Dry” is an enjoyable and uplifting film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of British comedies and those who enjoy feel-good stories with a touch of whimsy.

Blow Dry [DVD]
  • Alan Rickman, Natasha Richardson, Rachel Griffiths (Actors)
  • Paddy Breathnach (Director) - Simon Beaufoy (Writer)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

18.Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is a 2001 fantasy film directed by Chris Columbus, and it is based on the first novel in J.K.

Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series. Alan Rickman plays the role of Severus Snape, the Potions professor at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry who becomes a pivotal character in the series.

Alan Rickman’s performance as Severus Snape in the “Harry Potter” series is widely regarded as one of his most iconic roles. In the first film, Rickman brings a sense of mystery and menace to the character, as Snape is initially portrayed as a cold and strict disciplinarian.

Rickman’s performance sets the stage for Snape’s development over the course of the series, as his character becomes increasingly complex and sympathetic.

Overall, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is a classic fantasy film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman as Severus Snape. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of the “Harry Potter” series and those who enjoy epic tales of magic and adventure.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson (Actors)
  • Chris Columbus (Director) - Steve Kloves (Writer) - David Heyman (Producer)
  • German, English, Spanish, French, Italian (Playback Languages)
  • German, English, Spanish, French, Italian (Subtitles)

19.The Search for John Gissing (2001)

“The Search for John Gissing” is a 2001 British comedy film directed by Mike Binder, and it stars Mike Binder and Janeane Garofalo as a married couple who travel to London for a job opportunity.

Alan Rickman plays the role of John Gissing, a British executive who becomes a rival to Binder’s character.

Alan Rickman’s performance in “The Search for John Gissing” is a highlight of the film. He brings a sense of charm and sophistication to the role of John Gissing, who is a smooth-talking and manipulative character.

The film is a satire of corporate culture and the cutthroat world of business, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey the absurdity of these concepts with wit and humor.

Overall, “The Search for John Gissing” is an entertaining and insightful film that features a standout performance from Alan Rickman. It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of British comedies and those who enjoy satirical takes on corporate culture.

The Search for John Gissing [DVD]
  • DVD
  • Color, Dolby, Widescreen
  • English (Original Language), English (Unknown)
  • 1
  • 91

20.Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” is a 2002 fantasy film directed by Chris Columbus, and it is based on the second novel in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series.

Alan Rickman reprises his role as Severus Snape, the Potions professor at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Alan Rickman’s performance as Severus Snape in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” continues to impress, as he brings a sense of complexity and nuance to the character.

Snape is revealed to have a deeper connection to the series’ villain, Lord Voldemort, and Rickman’s performance helps to convey the character’s conflicted emotions and motivations.

Overall, “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” is a worthy follow-up to the first film, and it features another standout performance from Alan Rickman as Severus Snape.

It’s a movie that will appeal to fans of the “Harry Potter” series and those who enjoy epic tales of magic and adventure.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint (Actors)
  • Chris Columbus (Director) - Steve Kloves (Writer) - David Heyman (Producer)
  • Catalan, German, English, Spanish, French (Playback Languages)
  • Catalan, German, English, Spanish, French (Subtitles)

Best Alan Rickman Movies – Wrap Up

In conclusion, Alan Rickman was a talented and versatile actor who left an indelible mark on the film industry with his memorable performances.

From his iconic turn as the villainous Hans Gruber in “Die Hard” to his complex portrayal of Severus Snape in the “Harry Potter” series, Rickman was a masterful actor who brought nuance and emotional depth to every role he played.

Fans of his work can appreciate the wide range of genres and styles represented in his filmography, from action movies to romantic comedies to dramas.

Overall, Alan Rickman will be remembered as one of the great actors of his generation, and his movies will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.