Gary Oldman is a British actor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. He has been praised for his versatility, intensity, and chameleon-like ability to disappear into his roles.
With a career spanning over three decades, Oldman has played a wide range of characters in film, television, and stage productions.
In this series, we will take a look at some of Gary Oldman’s best movies and explore what makes him such a captivating and talented actor.
From his breakthrough performance in “Sid and Nancy” to his acclaimed portrayal of Winston Churchill in “Darkest Hour,” Oldman has demonstrated his range and talent time and again.
Whether he’s playing a villain, a hero, or a real-life figure, Oldman brings an intensity and authenticity to his performances that make him a joy to watch on screen.
Best Gary Oldman Movies
With multiple award nominations and wins to his name, Gary Oldman has solidified his place in the pantheon of great actors, and his films are a testament to his enduring talent.
1. The Dark Knight (2008)
“The Dark Knight” is a 2008 superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan and starring an ensemble cast that includes Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, and of course, Gary Oldman.
The film is the second installment in Nolan’s “Dark Knight” trilogy, and it tells the story of Batman’s battle against the Joker, a psychotic criminal mastermind who seeks to create chaos and anarchy in Gotham City.
Gary Oldman plays the role of Jim Gordon, a veteran police officer who is one of the few honest and dedicated law enforcement officials in Gotham City.
As the Joker’s reign of terror spreads throughout the city, Gordon works alongside Batman to try and stop him and restore order to the city.
Oldman delivers a powerful and understated performance as Gordon, conveying both the character’s courage and his vulnerability. He provides a strong anchor for the film’s narrative, and his portrayal of Gordon has become a fan favorite.
“The Dark Knight” was widely praised by critics for its intense action sequences, complex characters, and gritty realism.
The film’s success helped to cement Gary Oldman’s reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation, and his performance in the film remains a highlight of his career.
2. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
“The Dark Knight Rises” is a 2012 superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Christian Bale, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
The film is the third and final installment in Nolan’s Batman trilogy and follows the Caped Crusader as he battles the villainous Bane, who is determined to destroy Gotham City.
The film explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the consequences of vigilantism. It features stunning action sequences, impressive visual effects, and a powerful score by Hans Zimmer.
“The Dark Knight Rises” is recommended for audiences who enjoy superhero films that are more than just mindless action movies.
The film offers a complex and thought-provoking exploration of the Batman mythology, and the performances are uniformly excellent.
It is a fitting conclusion to Nolan’s trilogy and is regarded as one of the best superhero movies ever made. However, due to its intense action sequences and depictions of violence, it may not be suitable for all viewers.
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” is a fantasy film directed by Alfonso Cuarón and released in 2004. It is the third film in the “Harry Potter” franchise, based on the novel of the same name by J.K. Rowling.
The film stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, along with Emma Watson and Rupert Grint as his best friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, respectively.
The film follows Harry, Hermione, and Ron as they return to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for their third year.
They soon learn that the infamous wizard criminal Sirius Black (played by Gary Oldman) has escaped from the wizarding prison Azkaban and is believed to be seeking revenge on Harry for causing the downfall of his former ally, the evil Lord Voldemort.
As the trio navigates the dangers and mysteries of Hogwarts, they also encounter new characters such as the enigmatic Professor Lupin (played by David Thewlis) and the unpleasant Divination teacher Sybill Trelawney (played by Emma Thompson).
“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” received critical acclaim for its darker tone and more mature themes, as well as its stunning visual effects and inventive direction by Cuarón. It was also a commercial success, grossing over $796 million worldwide.
The film is considered by many fans and critics to be one of the best entries in the “Harry Potter” franchise, and is often cited as a turning point for the series in terms of its darker and more complex storytelling.
4. Léon: The Professional (1994)
“Léon: The Professional” is a 1994 action-thriller film directed by Luc Besson and starring Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, and a young Natalie Portman in her feature film debut.
The film follows Léon (Reno), a professional hitman living a solitary life in New York City, who takes in a young girl named Mathilda (Portman) after her family is murdered by corrupt DEA agents.
The film explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the bonds that can form between unlikely people.
Léon and Mathilda form an unlikely father-daughter bond, and the film follows their attempts to take revenge on the corrupt DEA agents who destroyed Mathilda’s family.
Along the way, they encounter a cast of memorable characters, including Gary Oldman’s unhinged DEA agent Stansfield.
“Léon: The Professional” received positive reviews upon its release, particularly for its performances and stylish direction.
Jean Reno’s portrayal of the stoic and enigmatic Léon was particularly praised, as was Natalie Portman’s powerful debut performance as the streetwise but vulnerable Mathilda. The film has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best action-thrillers of the 1990s.
Overall, “Léon: The Professional” is a thrilling and emotionally resonant film that offers a unique take on the hitman genre.
It’s a must-see for fans of action-thrillers, but it also has something to offer for those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the meaning of family.
5. Batman Begins (2005)
“Batman Begins” is a 2005 superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne/Batman. The film is a reboot of the Batman franchise and explores the origins of the character and his transformation into the Dark Knight.
The film follows Bruce Wayne as he travels the world seeking ways to fight injustice, ultimately finding himself in the company of the League of Shadows, a group led by Ra’s al Ghul (played by Liam Neeson).
After rejecting the League’s methods, Bruce returns to Gotham City and assumes the persona of Batman to fight against the corruption and crime that plagues the city.
“Batman Begins” received critical acclaim for its dark and gritty tone, realistic approach to the character, and strong performances from the cast.
The film’s screenplay, written by Nolan and David S. Goyer, was noted for its exploration of the psychological and emotional aspects of the character.
The film’s success led to two sequels, “The Dark Knight” (2008) and “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012), both also directed by Nolan and starring Bale as Batman.
The trilogy is widely regarded as one of the best superhero film franchises of all time, and “Batman Begins” is often cited as a standout film within the genre.
6. JFK (1991)
“JFK” is a political thriller film released in 1991, directed by Oliver Stone and starring Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, and Gary Oldman. Christian Bale does not appear in the film.
The film explores the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, and the subsequent investigations and conspiracy theories that arose in the aftermath.
Costner plays New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison, who becomes convinced that there was a larger conspiracy behind Kennedy’s assassination, and launches his own investigation.
As Garrison delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of intrigue involving the CIA, the Mafia, and other powerful figures.
“JFK” was praised for its intricate and detailed storytelling, as well as its powerful performances and provocative themes.
The film was controversial at the time of its release, with some critics and historians questioning the accuracy of its portrayal of the events surrounding Kennedy’s assassination.
Despite this controversy, “JFK” remains a landmark film in American cinema, and is remembered for its gripping narrative and its exploration of complex themes such as power, corruption, and the nature of truth.
7. True Romance (1993)
“True Romance” is a 1993 crime film directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino.
The film follows the story of Clarence (Christian Slater), a comic book store employee who falls in love with a call girl named Alabama (Patricia Arquette) and embarks on a violent and dangerous journey to protect her from her pimp and drug lord boss.
Gary Oldman plays the role of Drexl Spivey, a dreadlocked pimp and drug dealer who is one of the film’s most memorable and menacing characters.
Oldman’s portrayal of Drexl is both terrifying and captivating, with the actor fully committing to the role and bringing a unique intensity and unpredictability to the character.
Despite his limited screen time, Oldman’s performance in “True Romance” has become a fan favorite and a standout moment in the film. His portrayal of Drexl is a testament to his versatility as an actor, and his ability to fully inhabit even the most extreme and challenging characters.
Overall, “True Romance” is a gritty and stylish crime film that features a talented cast and a script filled with memorable dialogue and intense action sequences.
Gary Oldman’s performance as Drexl is just one of the many reasons why the film has become a cult classic and a favorite among fans of the crime genre.
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8. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” is a 2014 science fiction film directed by Matt Reeves and starring Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, and Gary Oldman.
The film is the second installment in the rebooted “Planet of the Apes” franchise and follows the story of Caesar (Serkis), a highly intelligent ape who leads a group of apes in a battle for survival against humans in a post-apocalyptic world.
Here are three reasons to watch “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes”:
Groundbreaking Visual Effects: The film features groundbreaking visual effects that bring the apes to life in a way that had never been seen before.
The motion capture technology used to create the apes allowed for incredibly realistic and nuanced performances, particularly by Andy Serkis as Caesar. The visual effects earned the film an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.
Complex Characters: “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” features complex and well-developed characters, both human and ape. The film explores themes of power, trust, and survival in a world where the lines between friend and foe are blurred.
The characters are portrayed in a way that is both sympathetic and realistic, making the audience invest in their struggles and choices.
Gripping Action: The film delivers on the action front with intense and suspenseful battle scenes between the apes and humans.
The action sequences are expertly choreographed and executed, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The film’s score, composed by Michael Giacchino, adds to the tension and excitement of the action scenes, creating a truly immersive experience.
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9. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” is a 2007 fantasy film directed by David Yates and based on the fifth book in the “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling. The film stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, alongside Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, and Imelda Staunton.
In the film, Harry returns to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for his fifth year, where he discovers that the Ministry of Magic is in denial about the return of Lord Voldemort.
As a result, Harry forms a secret society, the Order of the Phoenix, to fight against the dark forces that threaten the wizarding world.
“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” is recommended for audiences who enjoy epic fantasy films with richly developed characters and intricate world-building.
The film features impressive special effects, memorable action sequences, and a strong ensemble cast. It also touches on themes of grief, loss, and the importance of standing up for what is right, making it a compelling entry in the “Harry Potter” franchise.
However, as with other films in the series, it may not be suitable for younger children due to its darker themes and some scary moments.
10. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” is a British spy thriller film directed by Tomas Alfredson and released in 2011.
It is based on the novel of the same name by John le Carré and stars Gary Oldman as George Smiley, a retired spy who is brought back into service to uncover a mole within the British Secret Service.
The film is set during the Cold War era in the 1970s, and follows Smiley as he investigates a complex web of espionage and betrayal.
He is aided by a small team of trusted colleagues, including Peter Guillam (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) and Ricki Tarr (played by Tom Hardy), as they seek to uncover the identity of the mole and bring him to justice.
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” received critical acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail, complex storytelling, and excellent performances from its all-star cast, which also includes Colin Firth, John Hurt, and Mark Strong.
The film was nominated for several awards, including three Academy Awards and three BAFTA Awards, and won the BAFTA for Best British Film.
Overall, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” is a tense and engaging spy thriller that combines intricate plotting with superb acting and direction, and is widely regarded as one of the best adaptations of le Carré’s work.
11. Prick Up Your Ears (1987)
“Prick Up Your Ears” is a 1987 biographical drama film directed by Stephen Frears and starring Gary Oldman, Alfred Molina, and Vanessa Redgrave.
The film tells the story of the celebrated British playwright Joe Orton (Oldman) and his turbulent relationship with his lover and collaborator Kenneth Halliwell (Molina), which ultimately ended in tragedy.
The film explores themes of creativity, sexuality, and the destructive power of jealousy.
Orton and Halliwell’s relationship is portrayed with frankness and sensitivity, and the film doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker aspects of their story, including their tumultuous fights and Halliwell’s eventual murder-suicide.
“Prick Up Your Ears” received positive reviews upon its release, particularly for its performances and its evocative recreation of the 1960s London theater scene.
Gary Oldman’s portrayal of Joe Orton is widely regarded as one of his finest performances, and Alfred Molina also received critical acclaim for his nuanced portrayal of the troubled Halliwell.
Overall, “Prick Up Your Ears” is a moving and insightful film that offers a fascinating look at the life and work of one of Britain’s most celebrated playwrights.
It’s a must-see for fans of Gary Oldman or for those interested in exploring the complexities of creative partnerships and the darker aspects of human relationships.
12. Darkest Hour (2017)
“Darkest Hour” is a 2017 war drama film directed by Joe Wright and starring Gary Oldman as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
The film is set in 1940 during the early days of World War II, when Churchill is appointed as Prime Minister and must navigate the difficult decision of whether to negotiate a peace treaty with Nazi Germany or fight on against overwhelming odds.
As Churchill faces opposition and doubt from within his own government and struggles to rally his people to the cause of war, he must also confront his own personal demons and insecurities. The film explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the power of words and rhetoric.
Gary Oldman’s performance as Churchill was widely praised, and he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal. The film also received positive reviews for its direction, cinematography, and screenplay by Anthony McCarten.
“Darkest Hour” has been noted for its historical accuracy and its depiction of Churchill as a complex and flawed but ultimately heroic figure.
The film has been compared to other World War II dramas such as “Dunkirk” and “The Imitation Game,” and has been praised for its exploration of the human aspects of war and politics.
13. Mank (2020)
“Mank” is a biographical drama film released in 2020, directed by David Fincher and starring Gary Oldman in the lead role as Herman J. Mankiewicz, a screenwriter who co-wrote the screenplay for “Citizen Kane” with Orson Welles.
Christian Bale does not appear in the film, but it features an ensemble cast that includes Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins, and Tom Pelphrey.
The film explores Mankiewicz’s tumultuous career in Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, and his collaboration with Welles on what many consider to be the greatest film ever made, “Citizen Kane.”
The film also delves into Mankiewicz’s personal life and struggles with alcoholism, as well as his complex relationships with the other players in Hollywood’s golden age.
“Mank” was praised for its meticulous attention to detail, as well as Oldman’s powerful performance as Mankiewicz.
The film also garnered acclaim for its exploration of themes such as the creative process, the nature of power and influence in Hollywood, and the complexities of friendship and betrayal.
Despite being a relatively recent release, “Mank” has already earned a place as one of the most celebrated films of the 2020s, and is considered by many to be a modern classic of American cinema.
14. Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)
“Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” is a 1990 comedy-drama film written and directed by Tom Stoppard, based on his play of the same name.
The film follows the story of two minor characters from Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” Rosencrantz (Gary Oldman) and Guildenstern (Tim Roth), as they navigate their way through a world that seems to be conspiring against them.
Gary Oldman delivers a standout performance as Rosencrantz, imbuing the character with a sense of innocence, curiosity, and humor that makes him endearing to audiences.
Oldman’s performance captures the essence of Stoppard’s witty and intellectual writing, and he brings a sense of playfulness and spontaneity to the character that makes him a joy to watch on screen.
The film received critical acclaim for its clever and innovative approach to storytelling, as well as its exceptional performances by the cast.
“Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” is a must-see for fans of both Shakespeare and modern theatre, as well as those who appreciate intelligent and thought-provoking cinema.
Overall, Gary Oldman’s performance in “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” is a testament to his talent as an actor and his ability to bring complex and nuanced characters to life on screen.
The film is a true gem of the genre, and Oldman’s performance is just one of the many reasons why it remains a beloved classic to this day.
15. State of Grace (1990)
“State of Grace” is a 1990 crime drama directed by Phil Joanou and starring Sean Penn, Gary Oldman, and Ed Harris.
The film is set in the gritty underworld of Hell’s Kitchen in New York City and follows the story of Terry (Penn), a former member of the Irish-American gang who returns to the neighborhood and finds himself caught between his loyalty to his childhood friends and his duty to the law.
Here are three reasons to watch “State of Grace”:
Stellar Cast: The film boasts a talented cast of actors, including Sean Penn, Gary Oldman, and Ed Harris.
The chemistry between the three leads is palpable and their performances are intense and nuanced. The supporting cast, including Robin Wright and John Turturro, also deliver strong performances.
Authentic Portrayal of Gang Culture: The film offers an authentic and gritty portrayal of gang culture in Hell’s Kitchen in the 1990s.
The characters are complex and their motivations and relationships are realistically portrayed. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and violence in a way that is both thought-provoking and engaging.
Compelling Storytelling: “State of Grace” is a well-crafted film that tells a compelling story with strong characters, excellent pacing, and expert direction.
The film’s gritty visuals, moody score, and strong performances all work together to create a tense and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
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16. The Fifth Element (1997)
“The Fifth Element” is a 1997 science fiction film directed by Luc Besson and starring Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Milla Jovovich.
The film is set in the 23rd century and follows Korben Dallas, a retired special forces agent, as he becomes embroiled in a race to save the world from a great evil that threatens to destroy all life.
The film features stunning visual effects, a unique and imaginative storyline, and a cast of memorable characters. It blends elements of action, comedy, and romance to create an exciting and engaging movie experience.
“The Fifth Element” is recommended for audiences who enjoy imaginative and visually stunning science fiction films.
It has a cult following and is regarded as a classic in the genre, thanks to its memorable characters, innovative special effects, and thrilling action sequences.
It also has a great sense of humor that sets it apart from other sci-fi films. Overall, “The Fifth Element” is a fun and entertaining movie that has something for everyone.
17. Dracula (1992)
“Dracula” is a horror film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and released in 1992. It is based on Bram Stoker’s classic novel of the same name and stars Gary Oldman as the titular character, along with Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves, and Anthony Hopkins in supporting roles.
The film follows the story of Count Dracula, a vampire from Transylvania who travels to London in search of new blood and to reunite with his lost love, Mina Harker (played by Winona Ryder).
As Dracula begins to prey on Mina and her friends, a group of vampire hunters led by the renowned Professor Abraham Van Helsing (played by Anthony Hopkins) must race to stop him before it’s too late.
“Dracula” received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some critics praising the film’s lavish production design and Oldman’s dynamic performance as the iconic vampire, while others criticized the film’s uneven pacing and over-the-top melodrama.
Despite its mixed reception, “Dracula” has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the more visually stunning adaptations of Stoker’s novel, thanks to its elaborate costumes and set designs.
The film also features a haunting score by Wojciech Kilar and impressive practical effects, including the use of forced perspective to create the illusion of a giant castle.
18. Sid and Nancy (1986)
“Sid and Nancy” is a 1986 biographical drama film directed by Alex Cox and starring Gary Oldman and Chloe Webb.
The film tells the story of the tumultuous relationship between Sid Vicious (Oldman), the bassist of the punk rock band Sex Pistols, and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen (Webb), which ended tragically with Spungen’s murder.
The film explores themes of addiction, fame, and the destructive power of toxic relationships. It portrays Vicious and Spungen’s relationship with raw intensity, depicting their drug-fueled fights and the chaos that surrounded them during the height of the punk rock movement in the late 1970s.
“Slid and Nancy” received mixed reviews upon its release, but it has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic rock biopics of all time.
Gary Oldman’s performance as Sid Vicious is particularly notable, and the film’s gritty and realistic portrayal of the punk rock scene has been praised for its authenticity.
Overall, “Sid and Nancy” is a powerful and unflinching film that offers a vivid and compelling portrayal of one of the most iconic and tragic couples in rock history. It’s a must-see for fans of punk rock or for those interested in exploring the darker aspects of fame and addiction.
19. Immortal Beloved (1994)
“Immortal Beloved” is a 1994 biographical drama film directed by Bernard Rose, which tells the story of the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven (played by Gary Oldman).
The film is structured as a mystery, as Beethoven’s secretary Anton Schindler (played by Jeroen Krabbé) attempts to discover the identity of the composer’s “immortal beloved” to whom he wrote a passionate letter upon his death.
As Schindler investigates, the film flashes back to key moments in Beethoven’s life, including his difficult childhood, his rise as a composer, and his complicated relationships with women.
Along the way, the film explores Beethoven’s struggles with deafness, his creative process, and the personal demons that haunted him throughout his life.
“Immortal Beloved” received mixed reviews upon its release, but has since gained a reputation as a well-acted and visually stunning portrayal of Beethoven’s life and work.
Oldman’s performance as the composer was praised for its intensity and emotional depth, and the film’s use of Beethoven’s music has been noted for its power and beauty.
Overall, “Immortal Beloved” offers a thoughtful and compelling exploration of one of history’s greatest composers, as well as an examination of the human experience of creativity, love, and loss.
20. Interstate 60: Episodes of the Road (2002)
“Interstate 60: Episodes of the Road” is a fantasy comedy-drama film released in 2002, directed by Bob Gale and starring James Marsden, Gary Oldman, and Amy Smart. Christian Bale appears in a cameo role as the character “Lake”.
The film follows the story of a young man named Neal Oliver (Marsden) who is struggling to find his place in the world.
One day, he is approached by a mysterious stranger (Oldman) who offers him a journey on a magical interstate highway that will take him on a series of bizarre and surreal adventures.
As Neal travels along the highway, he encounters a wide array of strange and fascinating characters, each with their own unique story to tell. Along the way, he learns important lessons about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness.
“Interstate 60” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, with some praising its inventive storytelling and imaginative world-building, while others criticized its uneven pacing and lack of coherence.
Despite this, the film has developed a cult following over the years, and is remembered for its quirky and offbeat approach to storytelling, as well as its impressive ensemble cast.
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21. Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
“Kung Fu Panda 2” is a 2011 animated martial arts comedy film directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Gary Oldman lends his voice to the film as the villainous peacock Lord Shen.
In the film, Lord Shen seeks to conquer all of China with his powerful cannon, and it’s up to Po (voiced by Jack Black) and the Furious Five to stop him.
Gary Oldman’s performance as Lord Shen is commanding and menacing, with the actor delivering a captivating and nuanced portrayal of the character’s complex motivations and twisted psyche.
Oldman’s voice acting is top-notch, bringing a sense of gravitas and depth to the character that elevates him beyond the typical animated movie villain. Lord Shen is a formidable foe for Po and the Furious Five, and Oldman’s performance ensures that he is both intimidating and memorable.
Overall, “Kung Fu Panda 2” is a fun and entertaining movie that is elevated by Gary Oldman’s standout performance as Lord Shen.
The film’s blend of humor, action, and heart, along with Oldman’s captivating portrayal of the villain, make it a must-see for fans of animated movies and martial arts films alike.
22. Lawless (2012)
“Lawless” is a 2012 crime drama directed by John Hillcoat and starring Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jessica Chastain. The film is based on a true story and follows the story of the Bondurant brothers, who run a bootlegging business in rural Virginia during the Prohibition era.
Here are three reasons to watch “Lawless”:
Strong Performances: The film boasts a talented cast, with Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jessica Chastain delivering excellent performances. The chemistry between the actors is palpable and their portrayals of their characters are nuanced and authentic.
Gritty Atmosphere: “Lawless” features a gritty and atmospheric portrayal of the Prohibition era in rural Virginia. The film’s visuals, music, and direction create a tense and immersive atmosphere that draws the audience into the world of bootleggers and gangsters.
Compelling Story: “Lawless” tells a compelling and engaging story, based on true events. The film explores themes of family, loyalty, and survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.
The plot is well-crafted and keeps the audience on the edge of their seat, with plenty of action and suspense throughout the film.
23. Air Force One (1997)
“Air Force One” is a 1997 action thriller film directed by Wolfgang Petersen and starring Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, and Glenn Close.
The film follows President James Marshall (Ford) as he fights to take back Air Force One from terrorists who have hijacked the plane and taken the passengers hostage.
The film features high-stakes action sequences, tense moments of suspense, and a strong cast of actors who deliver memorable performances. It also explores themes of patriotism, loyalty, and the sacrifices that must be made to protect the country.
“Air Force One” is recommended for audiences who enjoy thrilling and suspenseful action movies. The film is a classic in the genre, thanks to its gripping plot, well-executed action sequences, and excellent performances from its cast.
It is a tense and exciting movie that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. However, it is worth noting that the film contains intense scenes of violence and may not be suitable for all viewers.
24. Murder in the First (1995)
“Murder in the First” is a 1995 drama film directed by Marc Rocco and starring Christian Slater, Kevin Bacon, and Gary Oldman.
The film is based on a true story and follows the trial of Henri Young (Slater), a prisoner who is accused of murder and faces the death penalty.
James Stamphill (Bacon), a public defender, takes on Young’s case and uncovers a history of abuse and mistreatment at Alcatraz, the prison where Young has been held.
The film explores themes of justice, corruption, and the inhumane treatment of prisoners. It portrays Young’s struggle to overcome the physical and emotional trauma he has suffered while in prison and Stamphill’s determination to uncover the truth about his client’s case.
“Murder in the First” received mixed reviews upon its release, but it has since gained a reputation as a powerful and thought-provoking film. Christian Slater’s performance as Henri Young is particularly notable, and the film’s portrayal of the brutal conditions at Alcatraz has been praised for its realism and impact.
Overall, “Murder in the First” is a gripping and emotionally charged film that offers a searing indictment of the American prison system and the treatment of its inmates.
It’s a must-see for fans of courtroom dramas or for those interested in exploring the social and political issues surrounding the criminal justice system.
25. Basquiat (1996)
“Basquiat” is a 1996 biographical drama film directed by Julian Schnabel, based on the life of the famous American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.
The film tells the story of Basquiat’s rise to fame in the New York art world during the 1980s, as he goes from being a homeless graffiti artist to a celebrated painter and cultural icon.
The film explores themes of race, class, and artistic expression, as it portrays Basquiat’s struggles with addiction, his complicated relationships with other artists and celebrities, and his ultimate tragic death at the age of 27.
The film features an impressive cast of actors, including Jeffrey Wright as Basquiat, David Bowie as Andy Warhol, and Benicio del Toro as Basquiat’s friend and collaborator, Benny Dalmau.
The film’s direction, cinematography, and use of music have also been praised, with Schnabel’s own background as a visual artist adding to the film’s authenticity and visual flair.
“Basquiat” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising it as a powerful and engaging portrait of a fascinating artist, while others criticized it for its overly stylized approach and lack of depth.
However, the film has since become a cult classic, and is widely regarded as a compelling and insightful exploration of the life and work of one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
3 Reasons To Watch Gary Oldman Movies
Versatile Actor: Gary Oldman is widely recognized as one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood.
He has played a wide range of characters over the years, from the villainous Dracula in “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” to the heroic Commissioner Gordon in “The Dark Knight” trilogy.
Oldman has the ability to completely transform himself for each role, bringing an authenticity and depth to his performances that is truly remarkable.
Academy Award Winner: Gary Oldman’s talent has been recognized by the film industry with numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in “Darkest Hour.”
He has also been nominated for BAFTA Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards, among others. Watching his performances in award-winning films can give viewers a deeper appreciation for his craft and the art of acting.
Memorable Performances: Oldman’s performances are often the standout elements of the films he appears in, and he has delivered many iconic moments throughout his career.
From his portrayal of Sid Vicious in “Sid and Nancy” to his portrayal of Winston Churchill in “Darkest Hour,” Oldman has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
Watching his films can provide viewers with memorable moments and a glimpse into the impressive range and talent of this acclaimed actor.
Best Gary Oldman Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, Gary Oldman is a versatile and talented actor who has delivered memorable performances in a wide range of films throughout his career.
From his early work in films like “Sid and Nancy” and “Prick Up Your Ears,” to his iconic roles in “The Dark Knight” and “Hannibal,” to his recent work in “Darkest Hour” and “Mank,” Oldman has consistently proven himself to be one of the most talented actors of his generation.
Oldman has the ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, bringing depth and nuance to each performance.
Whether he’s playing a villainous mastermind, a tortured artist, or a historical figure, he brings an intensity and complexity to his roles that makes them all the more compelling.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of Gary Oldman’s best movies, including “The Dark Knight,” “True Romance,” and “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead,” among others.
These films showcase Oldman’s incredible talent and range as an actor, and they are must-sees for any fans of his work.
Overall, Gary Oldman is a true master of his craft, and his contributions to the world of cinema have been immeasurable. He is a true icon of the screen, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store for us in the years to come.
