Essential Films Featuring Ben Stiller, Willem Dafoe, Ed Harris, Harvey Keitel, and Jon Voight

Dive into the best movies starring these acclaimed actors, spanning a variety of genres. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, drama, or action, these selections highlight their exceptional performances.

Comedy and Family

Ben Stiller

1. Zoolander (2001) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.5

• Stiller plays a clueless male model in this hilarious satire of the fashion industry, known for its quirky humor and memorable lines.

1. Night at the Museum (2006) – PG – IMDb: 6.4

• In this family-friendly adventure, Stiller stars as a night guard whose museum exhibits come to life, blending comedy with fun, imaginative scenarios.

1. Meet the Parents (2000) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.0

• Stiller’s role as a nervous fiancé facing his future father-in-law adds plenty of laughs in this classic family comedy about in-law tension.

1. Tropic Thunder (2008) – R – IMDb: 7.0

• A sharp and satirical take on Hollywood, Stiller directs and stars as a self-absorbed actor in this comedy about a film production gone awry.

1. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) – R – IMDb: 7.6

• Stiller plays a sensitive character in Wes Anderson’s quirky family drama, adding depth to this film’s unique and emotionally rich narrative.

Thrillers and Dramas

Willem Dafoe

1. Platoon (1986) – R – IMDb: 8.1

• Dafoe’s intense portrayal of a Vietnam War soldier in Oliver Stone’s gritty war film highlights the brutal realities of combat.

1. The Lighthouse (2019) – R – IMDb: 7.5

• Dafoe gives a haunting performance as a lighthouse keeper in this surreal psychological horror film, filled with tension and mystery.

1. Spider-Man (2002) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.3

• Dafoe shines as the Green Goblin in this iconic superhero film, delivering a memorable villainous role that defines the classic Spider-Man lore.

1. Mississippi Burning (1988) – R – IMDb: 7.8

• In this powerful drama about racial tensions in the 1960s South, Dafoe plays a dedicated FBI agent fighting against hate and injustice.

1. At Eternity’s Gate (2018) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.9

• Dafoe delivers a compelling performance as Vincent van Gogh in this introspective biopic, exploring the artist’s troubled yet brilliant life.

Dramas and Action

Ed Harris

1. The Truman Show (1998) – PG – IMDb: 8.1

• Harris plays the creator of a reality TV show in this thought-provoking drama, exploring themes of reality and personal freedom with a memorable performance.

1. A Beautiful Mind (2001) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.2

• Harris plays a key role in this biographical drama about the life of mathematician John Nash, showcasing his talent in a powerful supporting role.

1. Apollo 13 (1995) – PG – IMDb: 7.6

• As the NASA flight director, Harris helps guide the troubled Apollo mission in this gripping space drama based on real events.

1. The Rock (1996) – R – IMDb: 7.4

• Harris stars as a rogue general in this high-octane action film, delivering a strong performance amidst explosive set pieces.

1. The Hours (2002) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.5

• In this ensemble drama, Harris portrays a character deeply affected by the struggles of three women, contributing to a richly emotional narrative.

Crime and Drama

Harvey Keitel

1. Taxi Driver (1976) – R – IMDb: 8.3

• Keitel plays a pimp in Martin Scorsese’s classic about a troubled cab driver, delivering a standout performance in this gritty, influential film.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994) – R – IMDb: 8.9

• Keitel appears as a fixer in Quentin Tarantino’s iconic film, contributing to its legendary status with a memorable supporting role.

1. The Piano (1993) – R – IMDb: 7.6

• Keitel plays a key role in this moving drama about a mute woman and her piano, showcasing his range in a deeply emotional story.

1. Reservoir Dogs (1992) – R – IMDb: 8.3

• As Mr. White in Tarantino’s debut film, Keitel delivers a compelling performance in this intense heist drama, known for its sharp dialogue and tension.

1. Mean Streets (1973) – R – IMDb: 7.3

• Keitel stars alongside Robert De Niro in this early Scorsese film, exploring life in the gritty streets of New York with raw and powerful performances.

Adventure and Drama

Jon Voight

1. Midnight Cowboy (1969) – R – IMDb: 7.9

• Voight’s portrayal of a struggling cowboy in this gritty drama earned him an Academy Award nomination and remains a classic in American cinema.

1. Deliverance (1972) – R – IMDb: 7.7

• Voight plays a city dweller confronting harsh wilderness in this intense survival thriller, known for its gripping narrative and memorable performances.

1. The Deer Hunter (1978) – R – IMDb: 8.1

• Voight shines in this powerful drama about the Vietnam War and its effects on a group of friends, contributing to its emotional depth and impact.

1. Runaway Train (1985) – R – IMDb: 7.7

• Voight stars as an escaped convict in this high-stakes thriller about a runaway train, delivering a dynamic and intense performance.

1. Ali (2001) – R – IMDb: 6.8

• Voight plays sports commentator Howard Cosell in this biographical film about Muhammad Ali, capturing the essence of the iconic figure and his era.

Conclusion

These films showcase the remarkable talent of Ben Stiller, Willem Dafoe, Ed Harris, Harvey Keitel, and Jon Voight. Each movie not only highlights their exceptional skills but also spans a variety of genres, offering something for every viewer’s taste. From dark dramas to light-hearted comedies and thrilling adventures, these movies are must-sees for any film enthusiast.