22 Best Brian De Palma Movies: Top De Palma Films

Brian de Palma is an American film director and producer.

He has also directed numerous television productions and commercials, to which he occasionally contributes.

His most popular films include The Untouchables (1987), Carlito’s Way (1993), Mission: Impossible (1996), Mission: Impossible 2 (2000) and Red Dragon (2002).

His notable early hits include the critically acclaimed Obsession (1976); Scarface, the sequel to his own earlier film of the same name; The Untouchables; Home Movies,

which was written by John Sayles; and Hi, Mom! He wrote and directed Passion Fish in 1977 before beginning his film career proper with Body Double in 1981.

In 1983 he directed a segment of Martin Scorsese’s anthology film The ‘Shoestring’ Worker.

In 1984 he directed Murder on the Orient Express followed by two sequels in 1990 and 1996 respectively.

In 1988 he directed GoodFellas which was nominated for eight Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor for Joe Pesci who won for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival.

Best Brian De Palma Movies

Brian De Palma is one of the best directors in Hollywood history.

He’s known for his fast-moving and stylistic movies, which are often filled with blood, gore and sex.

Most of his films are thrillers and action films.

1. Scarface (1983)                        

“Say hello to my little friend!” This iconic line from Scarface has become one of the most memorable quotes in cinema history.

Al Pacino delivers a powerhouse performance as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who rises to the top of the drug trade in Miami.

The film is a violent and gritty portrayal of the American Dream gone wrong.

Director Brian De Palma creates a visually stunning world, full of bright colors and flashy costumes.

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Giorgio Moroder, is equally impressive, with its pulsing synthesizers and catchy pop songs.

The film’s themes of greed, power, and excess are still relevant today, and Scarface has become a cult classic.

While the film has been criticized for its portrayal of Cuban immigrants and its glorification of violence, there’s no denying its impact on pop culture.

Scarface has influenced countless films and TV shows, and its legacy continues to grow.

It’s a film that demands to be seen on the big screen, with its epic scope and unforgettable performances. Say hello to Scarface, and prepare to be blown away.

2. The Untouchables (1987)

The Untouchables is a classic crime drama that holds up even after more than three decades since its release.

Directed by Brian De Palma and starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, this film is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

From the opening credits, the film sets a tone of tension and danger, with the soundtrack adding to the sense of unease.

The performances are all top-notch, with Connery delivering a standout performance as the grizzled veteran cop who takes Costner’s character under his wing.

The film’s cinematography is also worth noting, with De Palma using a variety of camera techniques to build suspense and create memorable sequences.

The famous train station shootout is a standout moment that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

The Untouchables also benefits from a strong screenplay that balances action, drama, and even some moments of humor.

The film’s themes of corruption and the struggle to do what’s right in the face of overwhelming odds still resonate today.

3. Carlito’s Way (1993)              

“Carlito’s Way” is a gripping crime drama that tells the story of Carlito Brigante, a former Puerto Rican drug lord who is released from prison and tries to start a new life.

Directed by Brian De Palma and starring Al Pacino, this film is a masterclass in character study and suspense.

Pacino delivers a powerhouse performance as Carlito, a man who is trying to leave his criminal past behind and start anew.

The supporting cast, including Sean Penn and Penelope Ann Miller, also deliver memorable performances that add depth and complexity to the story.

What makes “Carlito’s Way” stand out is its ability to create tension and suspense throughout the film.

De Palma’s direction is masterful, using camera angles and music to build a sense of unease as Carlito navigates the dangerous world he left behind.

4. Phantom of the Paradise (1974)

Phantom of the Paradise is a wild and ambitious rock opera that defies genre classification.

Directed by Brian De Palma, it tells the story of a young and talented composer named Winslow Leach who is betrayed by music producer Swan and left disfigured and vengeful.

He becomes the Phantom, haunting Swan’s rock palace, The Paradise, and seeking to destroy the corrupt music industry.

The film is a visually stunning and imaginative feast, filled with colorful and eccentric characters, surreal set designs, and catchy rock songs.

The performances are over-the-top and entertaining, especially Paul Williams as the devilish Swan and William Finley as the tragic and sympathetic Phantom.

One of the film’s strengths is its ability to blend different musical genres, from rock to opera to disco, into a cohesive and exciting soundtrack that propels the story forward.

The film also cleverly satirizes the music industry, with its emphasis on image and commercial success over artistic integrity.

Phantom of the Paradise is not without its flaws, as some of the plot elements and tonal shifts can be jarring or confusing. However, its audacious and daring approach to storytelling and music make it a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

5. Blow Out (1981)      

Blow Ou is a stunning thriller that masterfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and political intrigue.

Directed by the legendary Brian De Palma, the film stars John Travolta as a sound engineer who unwittingly becomes embroiled in a sinister conspiracy after recording a fatal car accident.

De Palma’s direction is nothing short of brilliant, as he uses intricate camera movements and split-screen techniques to build tension and keep the viewer on the edge of their seat.

The performances are also top-notch, with Travolta giving a nuanced and compelling portrayal of a man struggling to come to terms with his involvement in a tragic event.

But what really sets Blow Out apart is its intricate plot, which weaves together themes of corruption, power, and the media in a way that is both thought-provoking and thrilling.

As the film hurtles towards its devastating conclusion, the audience is left questioning the nature of truth and the price of justice.

6. Dressed to Kill (1980)

Dressed to Kill is a classic psychological thriller that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Directed by the iconic Brian De Palma, this film follows the story of a mysterious killer who targets women in New York City.

The cinematography is stunning, with De Palma’s signature use of split-screen and tracking shots adding to the tension and suspense.

The performances in this film are outstanding, with Angie Dickinson delivering a standout performance as the troubled protagonist.

Michael Caine also shines as the enigmatic psychiatrist who may or may not be involved in the murders.

The chemistry between the two actors is electric and adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot.

One of the things that impressed me the most about Dressed to Kill was the way it tackled themes of gender and sexuality.

The film explores the complexities of female desire and the dangers of toxic masculinity, all while maintaining a thrilling and suspenseful plot.

7. Femme Fatale (2002)

Femme Fatale is a visually stunning thriller directed by Brian De Palma that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows Laure Ash (Rebecca Romijn) a beautiful and cunning thief who steals a priceless diamond at the Cannes Film Festival and stages her death to escape the.

However, her past catches up with her years later when she’s caught in a web of deceit and danger.

The cinematography in this film is simply breathtaking.

De Palma masterfully uses slow-motion, split-screen, and multiple angles to create a visually captivating experience that complements the film’s intricate plot.

The film’s score, composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto, is equally impressive, adding to the suspense and tension throughout the film.

Rebecca Romijn gives a standout performance as Laure Ash, effortlessly embodying the character’s seductive and manipulative nature.

Antonio Banderas also shines as Nicolas Bardo, a paparazzo who unwittingly becomes entangled in Laure’s dangerous world.

While the plot may be convoluted at times, the film’s twists and turns keep you engaged and guessing until the very end.

8. Carrie (1976)

Carrie is a classic horror film that stands the test of time. Directed by Brian De Palma and based on Stephen King’s novel, the movie tells the story of a shy and introverted teenager named Carrie White (Sissy Spacek) who is constantly bullied by her peers and abused by her religious fanatic mother (Piper Laurie).

The film is a masterclass in suspense and tension-building, as De Palma expertly plays with the audience’s emotions and keeps them on the edge of their seats.

The infamous prom scene is a prime example of this, as Carrie’s telekinetic powers are unleashed in a spectacular and terrifying way.

Spacek’s performance as Carrie is nothing short of extraordinary, as she portrays the character’s vulnerability, fear, and eventual rage with remarkable depth and nuance.

Laurie also delivers a chilling performance as Carrie’s mother, conveying a sense of religious zealotry that is both disturbing and unsettling.

9. Mission: Impossible (1996) 

Mission: Impossible is a thrilling action film that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Tom Cruise delivers a standout performance as Ethan Hunt, a skilled operative of the Impossible Mission Force who is framed for the murder of his team during a mission gone wrong.

Director Brian De Palma expertly weaves together a complex plot that involves double-crosses, high-tech gadgets, and heart-pounding action sequences.

The film’s iconic scene of Cruise dangling from a wire inside a high-security room is a testament to De Palma’s masterful direction.

The supporting cast also shines, with standout performances from Jon Voight, Ving Rhames, and Emmanuelle Beart.

The film’s score, composed by Danny Elfman, perfectly complements the tense and suspenseful atmosphere of the film.

10. Casualties of War (1989)

Casualties of War is a harrowing and emotional war film that explores the darkest aspects of human behavior.

Directed by Brian De Palma, this movie tells the story of a group of American soldiers during the Vietnam War who abduct and rape a young Vietnamese girlMichael J. Fox delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Private Eriksson, the soldier who witnesses the brutal assault and struggles with his conscience as he tries to do the right thing.

Sean Penn, in his role as Sergeant Meserve, plays a disturbing and complex character who embodies the worst aspects of toxic masculinity and the dehumanization of the enemy.

The film is visually stunning, with De Palma’s masterful direction creating a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere that perfectly captures the sense of paranoia and fear that permeates the war.

The use of slow-motion and flashbacks adds an extra layer of emotional depth to the story, making it all the more impactful.

11. Sisters (1972)            

Sisters is a twisted thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Directed by the legendary Brian De Palma, this film tells the story of twin sisters, one of whom may have committed a murder.

Margot Kidder delivers a standout performance as the disturbed and dangerous sister, while Jennifer Salt is equally impressive as the journalist who becomes entangled in the mystery.

De Palma’s signature style is on full display here, with split-screen shots, slow-motion sequences, and a Hitchcockian sense of suspense.

The film also features a memorable score by Bernard Herrmann, who collaborated with Hitchcock on many of his most famous films.

12. Hi, Mom! (1970)      

Hi, Mom! is a daring and provocative film that manages to be both hilarious and disturbing.

Directed by Brian De Palma, the film follows the misadventures of a young, aspiring filmmaker named Jon Rubin (played by Robert De Niro) as he attempts to make a documentary about the lives of his eccentric neighbors in New York City.

The film is a biting satire of the counterculture of the late 1960s, with De Palma skewering everything from radical politics to avant-garde art.

The scenes of Jon’s attempts to make his documentary are some of the film’s funniest, as he struggles to get his subjects to cooperate and frequently finds himself in over his head.

But the film takes a dark turn in its final act, with a shocking and disturbing scene that is not for the faint of heart.

Despite this, the film is a must-see for fans of De Palma and De Niro, who give excellent performances throughout.

13.Body Double (1984)

“Body Double” is a tantalizing thriller that takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue.

Directed by the legendary Brian De Palma, this 1984 film follows a struggling actor who takes on a job as a house-sitter, only to become embroiled in a dangerous game of voyeurism and murder.

The standout performance of the film comes from Craig Wasson, who plays the lead character, Jake Scully, with a perfect balance of vulnerability and determination.

The chemistry between Wasson and his co-star, Melanie Griffith, is electric, and their scenes together are some of the film’s most memorable moments.

De Palma’s signature style is on full display in “Body Double,” with elaborate camera movements, split-screen shots, and a tense, Hitchcockian score that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

The film’s climax is a masterclass in suspense, with a twist ending that will leave viewers reeling.

While some may find the film’s subject matter controversial, it’s impossible to deny the skillful execution of De Palma’s vision.

“Body Double” is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who appreciates the art of cinema.

14. Snake Eyes (1998)   

“The Endless” is a mind-bending and thought-provoking film that explores themes of time, memory, and perception.

Directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead have crafted a truly unique and captivating story that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows two brothers who return to a cult they escaped from years ago, only to find that the group’s beliefs and practices may not be as crazy as they once thought.

As they delve deeper into the cult’s mysteries, they begin to experience strange and inexplicable phenomena that force them to question everything they thought they knew.

What sets “The Endless” apart is its masterful blend of genres, seamlessly combining elements of horror, sci-fi, and drama to create a wholly original and unforgettable experience.

The performances from the cast are top-notch, particularly Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead as the brothers at the center of the story.

15. Obsession (1976)    

Obsession is a masterclass in psychological thrillers.

The film, directed by Brian De Palma, follows the story of Michael Courtland (Cliff Robertson), a wealthy New Orleans businessman who becomes obsessed with a woman he meets in Italy that reminds him of his deceased wife.

De Palma’s direction is nothing short of genius – his use of split-screen shots and Hitchcockian camera movements creates a sense of unease and tension throughout the film.

The performances of Robertson and Geneviève Bujold, who plays the object of Michael’s obsession, are both haunting and nuanced, bringing a depth to their characters that is rare in thrillers.

The plot of Obsession, while somewhat predictable at times, is still engaging and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

The ending is a satisfying and thrilling conclusion that ties up all the loose ends and leaves the viewer feeling both satisfied and unsettled.

16. Passion (2012)                          

Passion is a film that is equal parts seductive and sinister.

Director Brian De Palma masterfully crafts a tale of power struggles and toxic relationships within the cutthroat world of advertising.

Rachel McAdams and Noomi Rapace deliver captivating performances as the two leads, Christine and Isabelle, respectively.

McAdams’ portrayal of the conniving and manipulative Christine is chilling, while Rapace’s Isabelle exudes a quiet intensity that is impossible to ignore.

The film’s visual style is a feast for the eyes, with De Palma utilizing split screens, slow-motion shots, and dramatic lighting to great effect.

These techniques add to the film’s overall sense of tension and unease.

The plot itself is a twisted web of deceit and betrayal, with each character vying for control and willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve it.

The twists and turns keep the audience guessing until the very end, making for a thrilling viewing experience.

17. Raising Cain (1992) 

Raising Cain is a masterclass in psychological thrillers.

Director Brian De Palma takes us on a wild ride through the mind of a disturbed child psychologist, Carter Nix, played brilliantly by John Lithgow.

The film is a cleverly crafted exploration of multiple personality disorder, with Lithgow embodying different characters with ease and precision.

De Palma’s signature visual style is on full display here, with split screens, tracking shots, and intense close-ups creating a sense of unease and tension that never lets up.

The plot twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end.

The supporting cast, including Lolita Davidovich as Carter’s wife and Steven Bauer as a detective investigating a series of child abductions, are all excellent.

The film’s score is also noteworthy, with Pino Donaggio’s haunting music adding to the overall atmosphere of the film.

18. Wise Guys (1986)    

Wise Guys is a classic buddy comedy that teams up two of the biggest names in comedy at the time, Danny DeVito and Joe Piscopo.

This film follows two hapless mobsters who find themselves in over their heads when they are mistakenly hired to carry out a hit on their own boss.

DeVito and Piscopo have great chemistry on screen and their comedic timing is spot on.

The film is filled with hilarious one-liners and physical comedy that will have you laughing out loud.

The supporting cast, including Harvey Keitel and Captain Lou Albano, also deliver standout performances.

The plot itself is a bit convoluted at times, but the humor and the performances more than make up for it.

The film also features a memorable musical number from DeVito and Piscopo that is sure to leave you humming the tune for days.

19. Mission to Mars (2000)

Mission to Mars is a visually stunning sci-fi film that takes the audience on a thrilling journey to the red planet.

Directed by Brian De Palma, the film explores the idea of extraterrestrial life and the possibility of human colonization on Mars.

The film’s cast, which includes Gary Sinise, Don Cheadle, and Tim Robbins, delivers strong performances that bring emotional depth to the story.

The special effects are also impressive, with breathtaking scenes of the Martian landscape and the spacecraft designed to explore it.

However, the film falls short in terms of its plot and pacing.

While the initial discovery of a mysterious structure on Mars is intriguing, the story loses momentum in the middle and becomes repetitive. Additionally, some of the plot twists feel predictable and cliché.

20. The Black Dahlia (2006)        

The Black Dahlia is a crime drama that promises to take you on a thrilling ride through the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles in the 1940s. Based on James Ellroy’s novel of the same name, the film follows two detectives (Josh Hartnett and Aaron Eckhart) as they investigate the brutal murder of a young woman, Elizabeth Short, also known as the Black Dahlia.

While the film boasts a star-studded cast, including Scarlett Johansson and Hilary Swank, their performances fall short in this convoluted and confusing plot.

Director Brian De Palma tries to capture the gritty noir style of the era, but falls short in creating a cohesive narrative.

The film’s saving grace, however, is its stunning cinematography and set design.

The attention to detail in recreating 1940s Los Angeles is impressive, and the visuals are both striking and immersive.

21. The Bonfire of the Vanities (1990)

“The Bonfire of the Vanities” is a film that tries to do too much and ends up doing little justice to any of its intended themes.

Adapted from Tom Wolfe’s novel, the story follows Sherman McCoy, a wealthy Wall Street bond trader who finds himself in a downward spiral after a hit-and-run accident in the Bronx.

Despite a star-studded cast that includes Tom Hanks, Melanie Griffith, and Bruce Willis, the film fails to capture the satirical edge and social commentary of the source material.

The pacing is uneven, and the tone shifts awkwardly between comedy and drama, leaving the audience unsure of how to feel about the characters and their actions.

That being said, the film does have some redeeming qualities, namely the strong performances from Hanks and Willis, who bring depth and nuance to their respective roles.

The cinematography is also impressive, capturing the grit and glamour of New York City in the 1980s.

22. Redacted (2007)      

Redacted is a brutal and unflinching war drama that explores the horrors of the Iraq War through the eyes of a group of American soldiers.

Director Brian De Palma employs a unique and inventive approach to storytelling, using a mix of found footage, security camera footage, and staged scenes to create a sense of hyper-realism that is both unsettling and powerful.

The film follows a group of soldiers who are stationed in Iraq and tasked with guarding a checkpoint.

As tensions rise and the soldiers become increasingly disillusioned with the war, they are pushed to the brink of their moral and ethical boundaries, leading to tragic consequences.

Redacted is a deeply disturbing and thought-provoking film that challenges viewers to confront the atrocities of war and the toll it takes on those who fight it.

De Palma’s bold and uncompromising vision is supported by a talented ensemble cast, who deliver raw and emotionally charged performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Overall, Redacted is not an easy film to watch, but it is an important one that demands to be seen. It is a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the devastating impact it can have on both the soldiers who fight it and the innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.

Characteristics of Brian De Palma Movies

 Brian De Palma is a director who is known for his unique style of filmmaking.

His films are influenced by the Hollywood genres of crime, horror and thriller. He is known as one of the most respected directors in the world.

De Palma’s movies have a strong visual style and great soundtracks that elevate the film to another level.

He uses music to help tell his story, which gives it a very distinctive feel.

The music can be used to help build suspense or build tension so that the audience becomes anxious about what will happen next.

De Palma’s work has often been compared to Alfred Hitchcock’s because both directors use music as one of their main parts of their films.

Each director has his own way of using music in their movies and each one knows how to use it effectively.

Best Brian De Palma Movies – Wrapping Up

Brian De Palma is a master of suspense and tension. From his early days in New York City, as an assistant director for Martin Scorsese, to his days with Francis Ford Coppola, he has always been able to create some of the most intense experiences possible.

 

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