Kevin Costner's Best Movies, Ranked

Kevin Costner's Best Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 16, 2024 209.4K views 49 items
Ranked By
28.6K votes
4.4K voters
11 reranks
Voting Rules

Vote for your favorite movies that feature Kevin Costner, regardless of critic reviews or how big the role was.

Boasting a remarkable career spanning decades, Kevin Costner has consistently delivered unforgettable performances in his phenomenal movies. Exploring these critically acclaimed films reveals the artistic range and sheer talent that have established Costner as a legend in the entertainment industry. 

Exploring the best Costner movies is an opportunity to appreciate the actor's finesse in portraying diverse characters, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the captivating storylines and emotionally charged scenes. Each film features the esteemed actor delivering remarkable performances, showcasing his ability to elevate the cinematic experience through his dedication to the craft and commitment to his roles. 

Notable examples of Costner's memorable works include Dances with Wolves, where he plays an American Civil War soldier befriending a Native American tribe. Costner's heartfelt performance in this epic drama earned him multiple awards, solidifying its place among the best Kevin Costner movies. Field of Dreams is another classic, featuring Costner as an Iowa farmer inspired to build a baseball field in his backyard. This enchanting tale showcases the actor's ability to captivate audiences with his charismatic portrayal of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Costner's role as Eliot Ness in The Untouchables demonstrates his versatility as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from a romantic lead to a relentless federal agent. 

The breadth of work in Costner's filmography serves as a testament to his remarkable talent and timeless appeal to audiences worldwide. From drama to action, romance to historical epics, each film offers a glimpse into the unique blend of talent, charisma, and skill that has captivated audiences for generations. 

Most divisive: The Company Men
Over 4.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Kevin Costner's Best Movies, Ranked
  • Dances with Wolves
    1
    Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene
    1,634 votes

    Elevated to a pinnacle of cinematic excellence, Dances with Wolves stars Kevin Costner in a tale that transcends time and culture. As both director and lead actor, Costner seamlessly intertwines the worlds of Native American life and Civil War-era America, bringing audiences along on an emotional journey filled with poignant moments and breathtaking vistas. The film's sweeping score only adds to its epic nature, while the rich character development draws viewers into a world they won't soon forget. With numerous accolades including seven Academy Awards, Dances with Wolves remains an enduring testament to Costner's multitalented prowess.

  • Field of Dreams
    2
    Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones
    1,483 votes

    Field of Dreams showcases Kevin Costner at his finest in this heartening story about the power of following one's dreams. Set against the enchanting backdrop of a magical baseball field, the film delves deep into themes of hope and redemption as it skillfully weaves together elements from various genres to create an unforgettable experience for all who watch it. Featuring memorable performances by James Earl Jones and Ray Liotta alongside Costner's moving portrayal, Field of Dreams is undoubtedly cemented as a classic in the annals of cinema history.

  • The Untouchables
    3
    Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro
    1,248 votes

    The Untouchables offers an exhilarating look into Prohibition-era Chicago through Kevin Costner's captivating performance as federal agent Eliot Ness. This riveting crime drama boasts an impressive cast which includes Sean Connery and Robert De Niro, whose portrayals further immerse audiences into the high-stakes world of mobsters, G-men, and gritty street justice. Brian De Palma's masterful direction blends action-packed sequences with compelling character studies, resulting in a movie experience that leaves viewers breathless long after the credits roll.

  • Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
    4
    Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
    1,239 votes

    Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves finds Kevin Costner donning the iconic green tights in this rousing retelling of the legendary hero's story. Costner's spirited portrayal breathes new life into the timeless tale, while an exceptional ensemble cast including Morgan Freeman, Alan Rickman, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio help to create a lush cinematic landscape filled with romance, adventure, and daring exploits. With its thrilling action sequences and memorable soundtrack featuring Bryan Adams' chart-topping hit "Everything I Do," Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves remains a cherished favorite among fans of swashbuckling cinema.

  • Bull Durham
    5
    Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins
    1,134 votes

    In Bull Durham, Kevin Costner delivers an exceptional performance as veteran catcher Crash Davis in Ron Shelton's engaging romantic comedy set within the world of minor league baseball. Costner's undeniable chemistry with co-star Susan Sarandon sets the screen ablaze as the pair navigate an intricate web of love triangles and professional rivalries. With its quick-witted dialogue and poignant moments of self-discovery, Bull Durham has become a beloved cult classic among sports movie enthusiasts.

  • Open Range
    6
    Robert Duvall, Kevin Costner, Annette Bening
    995 votes

    Starring and directed by Kevin Costner, Open Range is a beautifully crafted Western that harkens back to the genre's golden age while offering viewers a fresh take on classic themes. The film follows two cattle drivers played by Costner and Robert Duvall as they confront corruption in a small town, ultimately leading to an explosive confrontation between them and ruthless rancher Michael Gambon's men. Praised for its stunning cinematography and gripping storyline, Open Range demonstrates Costner's continued dedication to creating compelling films that resonate with audiences.

  • Wyatt Earp
    7
    Kevin Costner, Dennis Quaid, Gene Hackman
    946 votes

    Wyatt Earp casts Kevin Costner in the titular role of the legendary lawman whose life was filled with romance, danger, and adventure. The film chronicles Earp's journey from his early days as a frontier marshal to his fateful showdown at the OK Corral alongside brothers Virgil and Morgan, played by Michael Madsen and Linden Ashby. With a mesmerizingly nuanced portrayal that captures both Wyatt's humanity and grit, Costner leads an ensemble cast featuring Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday in this sprawling epic that pays tribute to one of America's most enduring legends.

  • JFK
    8
    Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
    1,021 votes

    In Oliver Stone's provocative conspiracy thriller JFK, Kevin Costner plays New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison as he seeks to uncover the truth behind President John F. Kennedy's assassination. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Stone presents a multitude of theories surrounding one of America's greatest tragedies while exploring themes of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. Supported by an all-star cast including Tommy Lee Jones, Kevin Bacon, and Gary Oldman, Costner's impassioned performance anchors the film as it delves deep into the murky depths of American history.

  • The Bodyguard
    9
    Kevin Costner, Whitney Houston, Gary Kemp
    1,284 votes

    The Bodyguard pairs Kevin Costner with Whitney Houston in an exhilarating romantic thriller that explores themes of love and sacrifice amidst perilous circumstances. As former Secret Service agent-turned-bodyguard Frank Farmer, Costner delivers a captivating performance defined by quiet intensity and smoldering chemistry opposite Houston's character Rachel Marron. With edge-of-your-seat action sequences juxtaposed against tender moments shared between its two leads, The Bodyguard has secured its position as a cinematic classic born from unlikely pairings.

  • The Highwaymen
    10
    Kevin Costner, Woody Harrelson, Kathy Bates
    342 votes

    Kevin Costner stars alongside Woody Harrelson in The Highwaymen as Frank Hamer and Maney Gault—two former Texas Rangers tasked with hunting down infamous criminals Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow during the Great Depression era. This captivating crime drama offers audiences an alternative perspective on the notorious pair while exploring Hamer and Gault's relentless pursuit for justice. Directed by John Lee Hancock (The Blind Side), The Highwaymen showcases the undeniable chemistry between Costner and Harrelson, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.

  • Tin Cup
    11
    Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Cheech Marin
    1,060 votes

    Kevin Costner shines brightly in Ron Shelton-directed sports comedy-drama Tin Cup as Roy McAvoy, a talented but underachieving golfer who finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes tournament against top professionals. With a winning combination of sharp humor and heartfelt emotion, Tin Cup showcases Costner's aptitude for conveying complex characters while keeping audiences entertained throughout its well-paced narrative. Aided by strong performances from Rene Russo and Don Johnson, this delightful tale about self-discovery defies expectations while scoring a hole-in-one with viewers.

  • For Love of the Game
    12
    Kevin Costner, Kelly Preston, John C. Reilly
    964 votes

    In director Sam Raimi's For Love of the Game, Kevin Costner gives an emotionally charged performance as aging baseball pitcher Billy Chapel, who reflects on his life and career during a pivotal game. Kelly Preston co-stars as Jane Aubrey, Chapel's love interest, providing a heartfelt narrative interwoven with the film's dramatic sports action. With its blend of poignant romance and engrossing baseball moments, For Love of the Game demonstrates Costner's continued prowess in crafting unforgettable characters and stories within both genres.

  • Silverado
    13
    Kevin Kline, Scott Glenn, Kevin Costner
    745 votes

    Silverado brings together a star-studded ensemble cast led by Kevin Costner in this adventurous Western directed by Lawrence Kasdan (The Big Chill). Set in 1880s New Mexico Territory, the film follows four unlikely heroes played by Costner, Scott Glenn, Kevin Kline, and Danny Glover as they band together to save their hometown from ruthless outlaws. Featuring breathtaking cinematography and engaging storytelling filled with humor and camaraderie, Silverado has earned its place as a revered classic among fans of the genre.

  • The Guardian
    14
    Kevin Costner, Ashton Kutcher, Sela Ward
    820 votes

    The Guardian teams Kevin Costner with Ashton Kutcher in an intense and inspiring drama about U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers. As seasoned instructor Ben Randall, Costner delivers a powerful performance marked by heartache, resilience, and determination alongside Kutcher's portrayal of trainee Jake Fischer. Directed by Andrew Davis (The Fugitive), this thrilling action-adventure captivates audiences with gripping water rescue scenes while exploring themes of mentorship and personal growth that resonate long after the credits roll.

  • A Perfect World
    15
    Kevin Costner, Clint Eastwood, Laura Dern
    771 votes

    Kevin Costner stars in Clint Eastwood's A Perfect World as Butch Haynes—a convict on the run who takes an 8-year-old boy hostage during his escape from prison. Eastwood himself co-stars as Texas Ranger Red Garnett, who pursues Haynes across state lines in a tense game of cat-and-mouse. This powerful drama explores themes of redemption and sacrifice while offering viewers an intricate character study through its gripping narrative led by a stellar performance from Costner.

  • Draft Day
    16
    Kevin Costner
    735 votes

    In Ivan Reitman-directed sports drama Draft Day, Kevin Costner plays Sonny Weaver Jr., the general manager of the Cleveland Browns, as he faces tough decisions and high stakes on one of the most important days in professional football—the NFL draft day. With a strong supporting cast that includes Jennifer Garner, Frank Langella, and Dennis Leary, this engaging film delves into the complexities of team management while showcasing Costner's talent for portraying determined characters faced with difficult choices.

  • No Way Out
    17
    Kevin Costner, Gene Hackman, Sean Young
    692 votes

    No Way Out offers audiences an enthralling political thriller featuring Kevin Costner as Lt. Cmdr Tom Farrell—a naval officer caught in a web of deceit within Washington D.C.'s highest ranks after witnessing a murder committed by his superior officer played by Gene Hackman. Directed by Roger Donaldson (Thirteen Days), this suspenseful film showcases exceptional performances from its cast alongside a tension-filled plot filled with twists and turns that will keep viewers guessing until its shocking conclusion.

  • Hidden Figures
    18
    Tariji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae
    388 votes

    In the inspiring true story Hidden Figures, Kevin Costner stars as Al Harrison—the director of NASA's Space Task Group during the early 1960s race to space. The film follows three African-American women mathematicians played by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe who played crucial roles in the success of that era's space missions despite facing racial and gender discrimination at every turn. Costner delivers a commanding performance alongside an exceptional ensemble cast in this uplifting drama that honors unsung heroes within American history.

  • The Postman
    19
    Kevin Costner, Will Patton, Larenz Tate
    816 votes

    Set in post-apocalyptic America, The Postman stars Kevin Costner as a drifter who dons the uniform of a deceased postal worker in hopes of restoring order and communication among isolated communities. Directed by Costner himself, this sweeping film combines elements of action, adventure, and drama to create a unique vision of a dystopian future filled with hope and resilience. With its poignant storytelling and captivating characters, The Postman remains a noteworthy entry in Costner's impressive filmography.

  • Mr. Brooks
    20
    Kevin Costner, Demi Moore, Dane Cook
    601 votes

    Mr. Brooks offers viewers an intriguing psychological thriller starring Kevin Costner as Earl Brooks—a successful businessman with a dark secret life as a serial killer named "The Thumbprint Killer." William Hurt co-stars as Marshall—a sinister alter ego that exists solely within Brooks' mind—while Demi Moore portrays the detective hot on his trail in this chilling cat-and-mouse game filled with suspense and unexpected twists. This riveting film showcases Costner's versatility as an actor, venturing into darker territory while remaining utterly captivating throughout.

  • Thirteen Days
    21
    Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, Steven Culp
    545 votes

    Thirteen Days is a gripping historical drama showcasing Kevin Costner as Kenny O'Donnell—an advisor to President John F.Kennedy during the tense days of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Directed by Roger Donaldson (No Way Out), the film delves deep into political intrigue and high-stakes decision-making within the halls of power during one of America's most dangerous moments in history—accurately detailing events while providing viewers with an intimate look into the lives of those involved.

  • Waterworld
    22
    Kevin Costner, Dennis Hopper, Jeanne Tripplehorn
    935 votes

    Waterworld transports audiences to a post-apocalyptic Earth submerged entirely in water, where Kevin Costner stars as the enigmatic Mariner navigating a challenging world filled with pirates and dwindling resources. With its stunning visual effects and thrilling action sequences, this unique sci-fi adventure offers viewers an enthralling escape into a watery dystopia that only Costner's compelling performance could anchor so effectively.

  • Message in a Bottle
    23

    Message in a Bottle

    Kevin Costner, Robin Wright, Paul Newman
    651 votes

    In this tender romantic drama, Kevin Costner portrays Garret Blake—a grief-stricken widower who finds solace by sending love letters to his deceased wife in bottles cast out to sea. Co-starring Robin Wright as Theresa Osborne—a journalist who discovers one of these messages and becomes determined to find its sender—Message in a Bottle captivates audiences with its beautiful cinematography and heartbreaking story about the power of love and second chances.

  • 3 Days to Kill
    24
    Kevin Costner, Amber Heard, Hailee Steinfeld
    399 votes

    3 Days to Kill presents Kevin Costner as an international spy facing a terminal illness while trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter played by Hailee Steinfeld. Directed by McG (Charlie's Angels), this action-packed thriller combines intense espionage sequences with touching moments of familial bonding—providing audiences with an exhilarating experience that highlights Costner's talents for balancing adrenaline-pumping scenes alongside heartfelt emotion.

  • Mcfarland, USA
    25
    Kevin Costner, Maria Bello, Morgan Saylor
    466 votes

    Kevin Costner delivers an inspiring performance as Jim White—a high school coach who forms a cross-country team from unlikely candidates within California's primarily Latino community of McFarland, USA. This heartening sports drama directed by Niki Caro (Whale Rider) skillfully merges themes of determination, unity, and overcoming adversity through its uplifting narrative that showcases the transformative power of teamwork on both individuals and communities alike.

  • Revenge
    26
    Kevin Costner, Anthony Quinn, Madeleine Stowe
    491 votes

    Revenge casts Kevin Costner as Michael "Jay" Cochran—a former U.S. Navy pilot who becomes entangled in a dangerous affair with his friend's wife played by Madeleine Stowe—in this suspenseful drama directed by Tony Scott (Top Gun). With its steamy romance and thrilling action sequences set against the backdrop of Mexico, Revenge keeps viewers invested in the complex relationships and escalating tension throughout its captivating narrative.

  • Man of Steel
    27
    Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon
    460 votes

    Man of Steel sees Kevin Costner taking on the iconic role of Jonathan Kent—the adoptive father and moral compass for Henry Cavill's Superman in Zack Snyder-directed reboot of the beloved superhero franchise. In this visually stunning film, Costner delivers an emotionally resonant performance that grounds the fantastical elements with heartfelt moments of love and sacrifice—proving that even amidst godlike beings, humanity's strength shines through.

  • Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
    28
    Chris Pine, Kevin Costner, Kenneth Branagh
    336 votes

    In Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, Kevin Costner stars as Thomas Harper—a CIA mentor to Chris Pine's titular character in this thrilling installment of the popular Tom Clancy-inspired movie series. Directed by Kenneth Branagh (Thor), this fast-paced spy thriller takes audiences on a globe-trotting adventure filled with dangerous missions and high-stakes intrigue—all expertly supported by Costner's experienced and commanding presence within the film.

  • 3000 Miles to Graceland
    29
    Kurt Russell, Kevin Costner, Courteney Cox
    465 votes

    In 3000 Miles to Graceland, Kevin Costner stars alongside Kurt Russell as two ex-cons involved in a daring heist during an Elvis impersonator convention held at a Las Vegas casino. This high-energy action-comedy showcases Costner in a rare antagonist role—bringing his undeniable charisma and intensity to create an unforgettable character amid wild shootouts, car chases, and double-crosses that keep audiences thoroughly entertained from start to finish.

  • Dragonfly
    30
    Kevin Costner, Joe Morton, Ron Rifkin
    480 votes

    Kevin Costner plays Joe Darrow—a grieving widower who believes he is receiving messages from his deceased wife through patients experiencing near-death experiences—in this supernatural drama directed by Tom Shadyac (Liar Liar). Featuring a strong supporting cast that includes Kathy Bates and Ron Rifkin, Dragonfly combines elements of mystery, romance, and spirituality to create a thought-provoking film anchored by Costner's captivating performance.