Marlon Brando is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, and his contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on the industry. Known for his intense performances, method acting, and deep commitment to his roles, Brando’s filmography spans several decades and includes some of the most iconic movies in Hollywood history. Here, we explore 20 of the best movies starring Marlon Brando, each showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility.
1. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)
Directed by Elia Kazan, “A Streetcar Named Desire” is perhaps the most iconic film of Brando’s career. His portrayal of Stanley Kowalski, a brutish yet charismatic character, earned him an Academy Award nomination and solidified his status as a leading actor. The film, based on Tennessee Williams’ play, also stars Vivien Leigh as Blanche DuBois, whose fragile mental state deteriorates under Stanley’s oppressive presence. Brando’s raw, magnetic performance revolutionized acting and brought a new level of realism to the screen.
2. On the Waterfront (1954)
In “On the Waterfront,” Brando delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career as Terry Malloy, a former boxer turned longshoreman who stands up to corrupt union bosses. Directed by Elia Kazan, the film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Brando. His famous line, “I coulda been a contender,” remains one of the most quoted lines in film history. The role showcased Brando’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength, further cementing his legacy.
3. The Godfather (1972)
“The Godfather” is perhaps Brando’s most famous film, where he played the role of Vito Corleone, the patriarch of a powerful mafia family. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this epic crime drama won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Brando. His performance, characterized by a gravelly voice and a sense of quiet authority, became iconic. The film’s influence on popular culture and its status as one of the greatest films ever made are testaments to Brando’s masterful portrayal.
4. Apocalypse Now (1979)
Francis Ford Coppola’s “Apocalypse Now” features Brando in the enigmatic role of Colonel Walter E. Kurtz, a rogue army officer who has established a cult-like following in the Cambodian jungle during the Vietnam War. Brando’s portrayal of Kurtz is haunting and powerful, adding to the film’s surreal and nightmarish atmosphere. Though his screen time is limited, his presence is felt throughout, and his performance contributes significantly to the film’s status as a cinematic masterpiece.
5. Julius Caesar (1953)
In this adaptation of Shakespeare’s play, Brando stars as Mark Antony. His delivery of Antony’s famous speech, “Friends, Romans, countrymen,” is a highlight of the film and demonstrates his versatility as an actor. Brando’s ability to transition from modern, naturalistic roles to classical theatre is a testament to his extraordinary range. Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the film is a standout in Brando’s early career and showcases his command of Shakespearean dialogue.
6. The Wild One (1953)
“The Wild One” features Brando as Johnny Strabler, the rebellious leader of a motorcycle gang. This film became a cultural touchstone for the 1950s, with Brando’s leather jacket and brooding demeanor symbolizing the era’s youth rebellion. Directed by Laslo Benedek, “The Wild One” is often cited as the original outlaw biker film. Brando’s performance helped define the anti-hero archetype and influenced countless films and actors in the years to come.
7. Last Tango in Paris (1972)
Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, “Last Tango in Paris” is a controversial yet highly influential film that stars Brando as Paul, an American expatriate in Paris who begins an intense and tumultuous affair with a young French woman, played by Maria Schneider. Brando’s performance is raw and emotionally charged, delving deep into themes of grief, loss, and identity. Despite the controversy surrounding the film, it is regarded as a significant work in Brando’s filmography for its fearless exploration of human emotion.
8. Sayonara (1957)
In “Sayonara,” Brando plays Major Lloyd Gruver, an American Air Force pilot stationed in Japan who falls in love with a Japanese actress, played by Miiko Taka. The film, directed by Joshua Logan, addresses themes of racism and cultural differences in the context of post-war Japan. Brando’s sensitive portrayal of Gruver, a man caught between duty and love, earned him another Academy Award nomination. The film’s exploration of interracial romance was groundbreaking for its time.
9. Viva Zapata! (1952)
Directed by Elia Kazan, “Viva Zapata!” stars Brando as Emiliano Zapata, the Mexican revolutionary leader. Brando’s performance captures the passion and determination of Zapata as he fights for social justice and land reform. The film, based on a screenplay by John Steinbeck, highlights Brando’s ability to embody historical figures with depth and authenticity. His portrayal of Zapata earned him an Academy Award nomination and demonstrated his commitment to socially relevant roles.
10. The Missouri Breaks (1976)
In this Arthur Penn-directed western, Brando stars opposite Jack Nicholson as Robert E. Lee Clayton, an eccentric and ruthless regulator hired to track down a gang of cattle rustlers. Brando’s performance is marked by its unpredictability and dark humor, adding a unique twist to the traditional western genre. While “The Missouri Breaks” received mixed reviews upon its release, Brando’s portrayal of Clayton has since been appreciated for its originality and boldness.
11. Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967)
Based on Carson McCullers’ novel, “Reflections in a Golden Eye” is a psychological drama directed by John Huston. Brando stars as Major Weldon Penderton, an army officer struggling with repressed desires and a failing marriage. Elizabeth Taylor co-stars as his unfaithful wife. The film delves into themes of sexual identity and emotional turmoil, with Brando delivering a nuanced performance that captures the complexity of his character’s inner conflicts.
12. The Young Lions (1958)
In “The Young Lions,” directed by Edward Dmytryk, Brando plays Christian Diestl, a disillusioned German officer during World War II. The film, based on Irwin Shaw’s novel, also stars Montgomery Clift and Dean Martin as American soldiers. Brando’s portrayal of Diestl is sympathetic and layered, exploring the moral ambiguities faced by individuals on both sides of the conflict. His performance stands out in this ensemble cast and adds depth to the film’s exploration of war and humanity.
13. The Fugitive Kind (1960)
Directed by Sidney Lumet, “The Fugitive Kind” stars Brando as Valentine “Snakeskin” Xavier, a drifter with a mysterious past who arrives in a small Southern town. The film, based on Tennessee Williams’ play “Orpheus Descending,” features Brando in a role that blends vulnerability with a simmering intensity. His chemistry with co-star Anna Magnani adds to the film’s emotional impact, making it a compelling exploration of desire and redemption.
14. One-Eyed Jacks (1961)
“One-Eyed Jacks” is a western directed by and starring Marlon Brando as Rio, an outlaw seeking revenge against his former partner, played by Karl Malden. The film is notable for its stunning cinematography and Brando’s unique directorial vision. Despite production challenges and mixed reviews, “One-Eyed Jacks” has gained a cult following over the years, with Brando’s performance and direction receiving renewed appreciation.
15. The Night of the Following Day (1969)
In this crime thriller, Brando plays Bud, a professional criminal involved in the kidnapping of a young woman. Directed by Hubert Cornfield, the film is a tense, atmospheric exploration of criminal behavior and moral ambiguity. Brando’s portrayal of Bud is both charismatic and chilling, adding to the film’s suspenseful mood. While not as well-known as some of his other works, Brando’s performance in “The Night of the Following Day” is a standout in his later career.
16. Burn! (1969)
“Burn!” is a political drama directed by Gillo Pontecorvo, with Brando starring as Sir William Walker, a British agent sent to incite a slave rebellion in a Caribbean colony. The film explores themes of colonialism, revolution, and exploitation. Brando’s performance is both charismatic and complex, capturing the contradictions of his character’s motivations. “Burn!” is notable for its political commentary and Brando’s powerful presence.
17. The Formula (1980)
In “The Formula,” Brando stars alongside George C. Scott in a thriller about a secret formula for synthetic fuel. Directed by John G. Avildsen, the film involves corporate espionage and conspiracy. Brando’s role as Adam Steiffel, a ruthless oil executive, showcases his ability to play morally ambiguous characters. Though the film received mixed reviews, Brando’s performance adds intrigue and gravitas to the story.
18. The Freshman (1990)
In this comedy directed by Andrew Bergman, Brando plays Carmine Sabatini, a character reminiscent of his iconic Vito Corleone. The film stars Matthew Broderick as a college student who becomes involved in Sabatini’s eccentric operations. Brando’s self-parodying performance is
a delightful nod to his legendary role in “The Godfather.” “The Freshman” blends comedy and crime caper elements, allowing Brando to showcase his comedic timing and charm. The film was well-received for its clever script and Brando’s entertaining performance, proving his versatility even in the twilight years of his career.
19. Don Juan DeMarco (1994)
In “Don Juan DeMarco,” Brando stars as Dr. Jack Mickler, a psychiatrist who treats a young man (Johnny Depp) who believes himself to be the legendary lover Don Juan. Directed by Jeremy Leven, the film is a whimsical exploration of fantasy and reality. Brando’s performance as the empathetic and weary doctor provides a poignant contrast to Depp’s flamboyant character. The film is a charming tale of romance and self-discovery, with Brando adding depth and gravitas to the story.
20. A Dry White Season (1989)
“A Dry White Season,” directed by Euzhan Palcy, is a powerful drama set during the apartheid era in South Africa. Brando plays Ian McKenzie, an aging lawyer who comes out of retirement to defend a black man unjustly accused of a crime. His performance, though a supporting role, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Brando’s portrayal of McKenzie is marked by his commitment to justice and humanity, contributing to the film’s emotional and political impact.
Conclusion
Marlon Brando’s career is a testament to his extraordinary talent and the profound impact he had on the art of acting. His ability to portray a wide range of characters, from charismatic leaders to troubled souls, has left an enduring legacy in the world of cinema. These 20 films represent some of the best examples of Brando’s work, each highlighting different aspects of his remarkable abilities.
From the groundbreaking realism of “A Streetcar Named Desire” to the iconic role of Vito Corleone in “The Godfather,” Brando’s performances have shaped the course of film history. His contributions to the craft of acting, particularly through his embrace of method acting, have inspired generations of actors. Even in his later years, films like “The Freshman” and “Don Juan DeMarco” demonstrated that his charm and talent remained undiminished.
Brando’s impact extends beyond his individual performances; he changed the way actors approach their craft, bringing a deeper level of emotional truth and intensity to their roles. His willingness to tackle challenging and controversial subjects, as seen in films like “Last Tango in Paris” and “Burn!,” showcased his dedication to pushing the boundaries of cinema.
As we look back on Marlon Brando’s illustrious career, it’s clear that his work will continue to be celebrated and studied for years to come. His legacy as one of the greatest actors in film history is firmly established, and his influence can be seen in the performances of countless actors who followed in his footsteps. Through his unforgettable roles and groundbreaking performances, Marlon Brando has secured his place as a true icon of the silver screen.