Must-See Films Starring Don Cheadle, Dustin Hoffman, Edward Norton, Gary Cooper, and Gary Oldman
If you’re looking to explore some of the finest performances from these talented actors, you’re in the right place. Each of these stars has delivered remarkable performances across various genres. Here’s a curated list of their best films that showcase their incredible range and skill.
Best Movies by Genre
Don Cheadle
Drama/Thriller
Hotel Rwanda (2004) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.1
Cheadle shines as a hotel manager risking everything to save lives during the Rwandan genocide.
Biographical Drama
The Guard (2011) – R – IMDb: 7.3
Cheadle stars alongside Brendan Gleeson in this darkly comic crime drama about an Irish cop’s unusual partnership with an FBI agent.
Comedy/Drama
Ocean’s Eleven (2001) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.7
Cheadle’s role as a skilled thief adds charm and wit to this stylish heist film.
Drama/Thriller
Iron Man 2 (2010) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.0
Cheadle joins the Marvel universe as James “Rhodey” Rhodes in this action-packed sequel.
Action/Thriller
Traffic (2000) – R – IMDb: 7.6
Cheadle plays a dedicated DEA agent in this multi-layered thriller about the drug trade.
Dustin Hoffman
Drama
Rain Man (1988) – R – IMDb: 8.0
Hoffman’s portrayal of an autistic savant earns him an Academy Award in this touching road movie.
Crime/Drama
The Graduate (1967) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
Hoffman delivers a memorable performance as Benjamin Braddock in this iconic tale of seduction and self-discovery.
Drama/Thriller
All the President’s Men (1976) – PG – IMDb: 8.0
Hoffman stars as a journalist uncovering Watergate in this gripping political drama.
Drama
Tootsie (1982) – PG – IMDb: 7.4
Hoffman’s comedic genius shines as an actor who disguises himself as a woman to land a role.
Biographical Drama
Lenny (1974) – R – IMDb: 7.6
Hoffman portrays controversial comedian Lenny Bruce in this biopic, showcasing his deep character work.
Edward Norton
Drama/Crime
Fight Club (1999) – R – IMDb: 8.8
Norton’s role in this cult classic explores identity and consumerism in a striking way.
Biographical Drama
American History X (1998) – R – IMDb: 8.5
Norton delivers a powerful performance as a reformed neo-Nazi grappling with his past.
Comedy/Drama
The Incredible Hulk (2008) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.7
Norton’s portrayal of Bruce Banner is a standout in this action-packed Marvel film.
Drama/Thriller
Birdman (2014) – R – IMDb: 7.7
Norton plays a troubled actor in this critically acclaimed film that examines fame and artistry.
Biographical Drama
The 25th Hour (2002) – R – IMDb: 7.6
Norton portrays a convicted drug dealer on his last day of freedom in this compelling drama.
Gary Cooper
Western
High Noon (1952) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
Cooper’s performance as a sheriff facing a deadly showdown defines this classic Western.
Drama
Sergeant York (1941) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
Cooper stars in this biographical film about a conscientious objector turned war hero.
Romantic Drama
Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
Cooper plays a lovable small-town man who unexpectedly inherits a fortune in this screwball comedy.
Adventure
The Pride of the Yankees (1942) – NR – IMDb: 7.8
Cooper portrays the legendary baseball player Lou Gehrig in this heartfelt biopic.
Western
They Came to Cordura (1959) – NR – IMDb: 7.1
Cooper stars as a disillusioned officer in this Western about courage and honor.
Gary Oldman
Biographical Drama
Darkest Hour (2017) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.8
Oldman’s transformative portrayal of Winston Churchill won him an Oscar for this gripping historical drama.
Crime/Drama
Léon: The Professional (1994) – R – IMDb: 8.5
Oldman plays a corrupt cop in this intense thriller, adding depth to the film’s dark narrative.
Action/Sci-Fi
The Fifth Element (1997) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.7
Oldman’s role as the flamboyant villain Zorg is a standout in this visually stunning sci-fi film.
Drama/Thriller
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011) – R – IMDb: 7.1
Oldman stars in this intricate Cold War espionage thriller, delivering a nuanced performance.
Biographical Drama
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992) – R – IMDb: 7.4
Oldman’s portrayal of Dracula brings a gothic intensity to this stylish horror adaptation.
Conclusion
These films represent some of the best work from Don Cheadle, Dustin Hoffman, Edward Norton, Gary Cooper, and Gary Oldman. Each actor brings a unique talent and depth to their roles, creating memorable cinema across various genres. Enjoy discovering or revisiting these standout performances!