Must-Watch Movies Starring Jason Robards, George Burns, Christian Bale, Ethan Hawke, and Ben Johnson

Discover the best movies from Jason Robards, George Burns, Christian Bale, Ethan Hawke, and Ben Johnson. These films span various genres—drama, comedy, action, and more—highlighting each actor’s finest work. Dive into these standout performances and find your next favorite movie!

Drama and Historical Films

Jason Robards

1. All the President’s Men (1976) – PG – IMDb: 7.9

• Robards shines as a grizzled editor in this political thriller about the Watergate scandal, a movie that captures the power of journalism.

1. Magnolia (1999) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Robards’ last role sees him deliver a powerful performance as a dying patriarch in Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic mosaic of interconnected lives.

1. Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.5

• In this classic Western, Robards brings complexity to his role as a rogue with a mysterious past, contributing to the film’s legendary status.

1. Julia (1977) – PG – IMDb: 7.2

• Robards portrays a literary giant in this biographical drama, giving depth to a story of friendship set against a backdrop of political upheaval.

1. Philadelphia (1993) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.7

• Robards takes on a supporting role in this groundbreaking film about AIDS discrimination, highlighting his ability to elevate any cast.

George Burns

1. The Sunshine Boys (1975) – PG – IMDb: 7.1

• Burns won an Oscar for his portrayal of a retired vaudevillian in this comedy about old grudges and showbiz’s golden era.

1. Oh, God! (1977) – PG – IMDb: 6.6

• Burns is hilarious as God himself in this light-hearted comedy, bringing charm and wit to a tale about faith and belief.

1. Going in Style (1979) – PG – IMDb: 7.1

• Burns stars in this comedy-drama about three elderly men who decide to rob a bank, blending humor with a poignant look at aging.

1. 18 Again! (1988) – PG – IMDb: 5.7

• In this body-swap comedy, Burns is a delight as an elderly man who finds himself in the body of his grandson, making for a fun family watch.

1. Just You and Me, Kid (1979) – PG – IMDb: 5.8

• Burns delivers a heartwarming performance as an elderly man who befriends a runaway teenager, showcasing his knack for blending humor with sincerity.

Action, Thriller, and Superhero Films

Christian Bale

1. The Dark Knight (2008) – PG-13 – IMDb: 9.0

• Bale’s portrayal of Batman reaches iconic status in this dark, action-packed superhero movie that redefined the genre.

1. American Psycho (2000) – R – IMDb: 7.6

• Bale delivers a chilling performance as a Wall Street executive with a deadly secret life, blending dark comedy with psychological horror.

1. The Fighter (2010) – R – IMDb: 7.8

• Bale won an Oscar for his role as a troubled ex-boxer, providing an emotional backbone to this gritty sports drama.

1. The Prestige (2006) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.5

• In this mind-bending thriller about rival magicians, Bale showcases his talent for playing complex and obsessive characters.

1. Ford v Ferrari (2019) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.1

• Bale gives a captivating performance as a race car driver in this adrenaline-fueled film about the legendary rivalry between Ford and Ferrari.

Ethan Hawke

1. Training Day (2001) – R – IMDb: 7.7

• Hawke delivers a standout performance as a rookie cop navigating the moral ambiguities of the LAPD, alongside Denzel Washington.

1. Before Sunrise (1995) – R – IMDb: 8.1

• Hawke shines in this romantic drama about two strangers who connect deeply over one night in Vienna, marking the beginning of an iconic trilogy.

1. Dead Poets Society (1989) – PG – IMDb: 8.1

• In this inspiring film, Hawke plays a shy student who finds his voice under the guidance of a charismatic teacher, delivering a heartfelt performance.

1. Boyhood (2014) – R – IMDb: 7.9

• Hawke’s performance evolves over 12 years in this coming-of-age drama, providing a naturalistic portrayal of fatherhood and growth.

1. Gattaca (1997) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.8

• Hawke plays a determined man fighting a genetically oppressive society in this thought-provoking sci-fi thriller.

Western and Adventure Films

Ben Johnson

1. The Last Picture Show (1971) – R – IMDb: 8.0

• Johnson won an Oscar for his role in this coming-of-age film set in a fading Texas town, offering a nuanced performance full of quiet strength.

1. Shane (1953) – PG – IMDb: 7.6

• In this classic Western, Johnson’s supporting role adds depth to a story of a mysterious gunslinger who rides into a community in need.

1. The Wild Bunch (1969) – R – IMDb: 7.9

• Johnson is part of an outlaw gang in this gritty, groundbreaking Western known for its action-packed sequences and moral complexity.

1. Rio Grande (1950) – NR – IMDb: 7.0

• Johnson stars alongside John Wayne in this Western about a U.S. Cavalry officer dealing with Native American conflicts and family drama.

1. Chisum (1970) – PG – IMDb: 6.9

• Johnson delivers a memorable performance in this John Wayne Western that explores themes of justice and resilience in the Old West.

Conclusion

From Jason Robards’ dramatic intensity to George Burns’ comedic genius, Christian Bale’s versatility in action and drama, Ethan Hawke’s depth in romance and thriller, and Ben Johnson’s strength in Westerns—these films represent the best of their careers. Each movie offers a glimpse into the unique talents of these iconic actors, making them must-watches for any film enthusiast!