Gary Oldman is one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood, known for his ability to completely transform into his characters. His career has spanned over four decades, featuring a wide range of roles from iconic villains to historical figures. Here are ten of his best movies that showcase his incredible talent and range.
1. Leon: The Professional (1994)
In “Leon: The Professional,” Gary Oldman plays the role of Norman Stansfield, a corrupt and maniacal DEA agent. This film is a masterclass in acting, showcasing Oldman’s ability to embody a character so completely that he becomes utterly terrifying. His unpredictable, intense performance stands out, creating a villain who is both mesmerizing and chilling. The film itself, directed by Luc Besson, tells the story of a hitman, Léon, who takes in a young girl, Mathilda, after her family is murdered by Stansfield. Oldman’s portrayal of Stansfield is often cited as one of the greatest movie villains of all time, and his performance alone makes this film a must-watch.
2. Dracula (1992)
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, “Dracula” sees Gary Oldman in the titular role of Count Dracula. Oldman’s transformation into the legendary vampire is nothing short of spectacular. He brings a unique blend of charm, menace, and vulnerability to the character, making this version of Dracula one of the most memorable. The film’s gothic atmosphere, combined with Oldman’s compelling performance, creates a hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel. Oldman’s ability to convey the tragic love story at the heart of Dracula’s existence adds depth to the horror, making it a standout film in his career.
3. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
In “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,” Oldman plays George Smiley, a retired intelligence officer brought back to uncover a Soviet mole within MI6. Directed by Tomas Alfredson, this slow-burn spy thriller showcases Oldman’s subtlety and restraint as an actor. His portrayal of Smiley is nuanced and understated, relying on small gestures and expressions to convey the character’s inner workings. Oldman’s performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, highlighting his ability to carry a film with quiet intensity and precision. This adaptation of John le Carré’s novel is a masterclass in acting and storytelling, with Oldman at its center.
4. Darkest Hour (2017)
“Darkest Hour” features Gary Oldman in one of his most transformative roles as Winston Churchill. Directed by Joe Wright, the film focuses on Churchill’s early days as Prime Minister during World War II. Oldman’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the essence of Churchill’s indomitable spirit, wit, and determination. The physical transformation alone is remarkable, but it’s Oldman’s ability to embody Churchill’s complexity that truly stands out. His portrayal earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, cementing his place as one of the greatest actors of his generation. “Darkest Hour” is a gripping and inspiring portrayal of a pivotal moment in history, brought to life by Oldman’s incredible talent.
5. The Fifth Element (1997)
In Luc Besson’s sci-fi epic “The Fifth Element,” Gary Oldman plays the eccentric and villainous Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg. Oldman’s performance is delightfully over-the-top, bringing a sense of dark humor and flamboyance to the character. Zorg is a unique antagonist, with Oldman’s portrayal making him both entertaining and menacing. The film itself is a visually stunning and imaginative adventure, and Oldman’s presence adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability. “The Fifth Element” is a cult classic, and Oldman’s performance is one of the key reasons for its enduring popularity.
6. Sid and Nancy (1986)
In “Sid and Nancy,” Gary Oldman portrays Sid Vicious, the infamous bassist of the Sex Pistols. Directed by Alex Cox, the film chronicles the turbulent and tragic relationship between Sid and his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen. Oldman’s portrayal of Sid is raw and unflinching, capturing the chaos and self-destruction of the punk rock icon. His performance is both heartbreaking and electrifying, showcasing his ability to fully immerse himself in a role. “Sid and Nancy” is a gritty and poignant film, with Oldman’s tour-de-force performance at its core. It remains one of the most compelling biographical portrayals in cinema.
7. True Romance (1993)
In Quentin Tarantino’s “True Romance,” directed by Tony Scott, Gary Oldman plays Drexl Spivey, a dreadlocked, drug-dealing pimp. Despite his limited screen time, Oldman’s performance is unforgettable. He completely transforms into the character, bringing a sense of danger and unpredictability to every scene he’s in. Drexl is a standout character in a film filled with memorable performances, and Oldman’s portrayal adds to the film’s cult status. “True Romance” is a wild and entertaining ride, with Oldman’s Drexl being one of its most memorable elements.
8. Batman Begins (2005)
Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins” redefined the superhero genre, and Gary Oldman’s portrayal of Commissioner James Gordon was a key part of its success. Oldman brings a sense of integrity, dedication, and humanity to the role, making Gordon a vital ally to Christian Bale’s Batman. His performance is grounded and relatable, providing a strong moral compass in a city plagued by corruption. Oldman’s portrayal of Gordon continues throughout Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy, with each film showcasing his ability to add depth and authenticity to the character. “Batman Begins” is a pivotal film in the superhero genre, and Oldman’s contribution is integral to its lasting impact.
9. The Contender (2000)
In “The Contender,” directed by Rod Lurie, Gary Oldman plays Congressman Shelly Runyon, a political adversary determined to derail the Vice Presidential nomination of Senator Laine Hanson (Joan Allen). Oldman’s performance is powerful and multifaceted, depicting Runyon as both a formidable opponent and a deeply flawed individual. His ability to navigate the complexities of political drama and personal vendettas adds depth to the character and the film as a whole. “The Contender” is a gripping political thriller, with Oldman delivering a standout performance that highlights his versatility as an actor.
10. Mank (2020)
In David Fincher’s “Mank,” Gary Oldman stars as Herman J. Mankiewicz, the screenwriter behind “Citizen Kane.” The film explores Mankiewicz’s struggles and triumphs as he works on the iconic screenplay. Oldman’s portrayal is captivating, capturing Mank’s wit, intelligence, and inner turmoil. His performance is both nuanced and dynamic, bringing the historical figure to life with authenticity and depth. “Mank” is a visually stunning and meticulously crafted film, with Oldman’s performance at its heart. His ability to embody complex, real-life characters continues to impress, making “Mank” a must-watch for fans of both Oldman and classic cinema.
Gary Oldman’s filmography is rich with diverse and compelling performances. From historical figures to fictional villains, his ability to fully inhabit each character he plays is what makes him one of the greatest actors of our time. These ten films showcase the breadth and depth of his talent, offering a glimpse into the incredible range of his acting prowess. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, these movies are essential viewing for anyone who appreciates exceptional acting and storytelling.