The Best Jean Reno Movies

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Updated April 23, 2024 67.7K views 56 items
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A renowned talent in the world of cinema, Jean Reno has delivered numerous remarkable performances throughout his career. Given the actor's diverse range of roles and appearances in internationally acclaimed films, it's no wonder that movie enthusiasts continue to celebrate his best movies. From gritty crime thrillers to emotional dramas, Reno's filmography offers a wide range of subjects.

The best Reno movies offer stellar performances that earned Reno critical acclaim and solidified his status as an outstanding actor. These films highlight his versatility, natural talent, and passion for embodying diverse characters. 

Among the best Jean Reno movies, several stand out for their powerful portrayals and unforgettable performances. For instance, in Léon: The Professional, Reno's portrayal of a conflicted hitman garnered widespread praise, earning the film a cult following. The Crimson Rivers saw him take on the role of a seasoned detective. Meanwhile, Ronin demonstrated his ability to deliver intense action sequences. These outstanding Reno movies offer a glimpse into the array of exceptional films that constitute his illustrious career.

The best Jean Reno films establish the actor as a venerable force in contemporary cinema. Ultimately, the best Reno movies captivate audiences with their compelling narratives and unforgettable performances.

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Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Jean Reno Movies
  • Léon: The Professional
    1
    Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, Natalie Portman
    225 votes

    Léon: The Professional, directed by Luc Besson, is a masterful piece of cinema featuring Jean Reno as a skilled but emotionally detached hitman in New York City. This highly acclaimed film showcases Reno's exceptional acting capabilities alongside a young Natalie Portman in her breakout role. As viewers watch the heartrending relationship develop between Reno's character and Portman's vulnerable Mathilda, they are drawn into a world of intrigue, danger, and ultimately redemption. With breathtaking action sequences and an emotionally charged story that will leave an indelible impression on any cinephile's mind, Léon: The Professional is undoubtedly one of Jean Reno's finest performances.

  • The Big Blue
    2
    Jean Reno, Rosanna Arquette, Griffin Dunne
    60 votes

    In Luc Besson's visually stunning masterpiece, The Big Blue, Jean Reno plays Enzo Molinari - a fiercely competitive free-diver racing against his childhood friend and rival, Jacques Mayol (played by Jean-Marc Barr) to break the world record. This epic underwater drama is an immersive experience that transports viewers into the depths of human emotion and physical endurance. Reno's magnetic portrayal of Enzo adds depth and nuance to the film, making it a captivating watch for fans of his work.

  • The Crimson Rivers
    3
    Jean Reno, Vincent Cassel, Nadia Farès
    48 votes

    In this intriguing French thriller directed by Mathieu Kassovitz, Jean Reno takes on the role of police detective Pierre Niemans, who is tasked with investigating a series of gruesome murders in a small Alpine town. As the mystery unravels and dark secrets are revealed, audiences are gripped by the suspenseful plot and mesmerized by Reno's impeccable performance. Known for its striking visuals and atmospheric setting, The Crimson Rivers is a must-see for fans of Jean Reno and thrilling mysteries alike.

  • Ronin
    4
    Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone
    94 votes

    Jean Reno joins an all-star cast including Robert De Niro in John Frankenheimer’s fast-paced heist thriller Ronin. Set against the backdrop of post-Cold War Europe, this adrenaline-fueled adventure film features gripping car chases and explosive shootouts as freelance intelligence operatives race to recover a mysterious briefcase. With his suave demeanor and exceptional skill set showcased throughout the film, Jean Reno proves to be an invaluable asset both on-screen and off.

  • Wasabi
    5
    Jean Reno, Ryôko Hirosue, Michel Muller
    49 votes

    In Gérard Krawczyk's action-comedy Wasabi, Jean Reno stars as Hubert Fiorentini - a French detective who uncovers a dangerous world of crime and deception upon traveling to Tokyo in search of his late lover's missing daughter. Reno expertly balances the film's humor and high-octane action sequences, providing viewers with an entertaining ride from start to finish.

  • Roseanna's Grave
    6
    Jean Reno, Mercedes Ruehl, Polly Walker
    17 votes

    In Paul Weiland’s dark comedy-drama Roseanna’s Grave, Jean Reno plays Marcello, a devoted Italian husband who seeks to fulfill his dying wife’s (played by Mercedes Ruehl) wishes before she passes away. This tender story showcases another side of Reno’s acting abilities – one filled with warmth, humor, and heartfelt emotion that captivates audiences from start to finish.

  • Crimson Rivers II: Angels of the Apocalypse
    7
    Jean Reno, Benoît Magimel, Camille Natta
    36 votes

    Returning as Pierre Niemans in this compelling sequel directed by Olivier Dahan, Jean Reno delves deeper into the criminal underworld to uncover sinister secrets lurking beneath seemingly ordinary events. As Niemans teams up with fellow detective Reda (Benoît Magimel), their investigation leads them down dark paths riddled with biblical allegory and apocalyptic prophecies. Once again showcasing his ability to command attention on screen through riveting performances, Crimson Rivers II solidifies Jean Reno’s status as an acting powerhouse.

  • 22 Bullets
    8
    Jean Reno, Kad Merad, Marina Fois
    56 votes

    Jean Reno demonstrates his acting prowess once again in Richard Berry’s gritty crime drama 22 Bullets. Playing Charly Matteï, a retired mobster seeking vengeance after surviving a brutal attack meant to kill him, Reno displays an astonishing range in his portrayal of a man torn between revenge and redemption. The film’s intense action sequences and intricate plot twists ensure that audiences remain captivated throughout its runtime.

  • Les Visiteurs
    9

    Les Visiteurs

    Jean Reno, Christian Clavier, Valérie Lemercier
    39 votes

    In this beloved French comedy directed by Jean-Marie Poiré, Jean Reno plays Godefroy de Montmirail - a medieval nobleman who finds himself transported through time with his bumbling servant (played by Christian Clavier). Faced with navigating modern-day France while trying to find their way back home, hilarity ensues as they encounter various obstacles along the way. With its sharp wit and engaging plot, Les Visiteurs highlights the wide-ranging talents of Jean Reno as both an adept comedian and skilled actor.

  • The Chef
    10
    Jean Reno, Santiago Segura, Julien Boisselier
    28 votes

    The light-hearted comedy The Chef features Jean Reno as Alexandre Lagarde, a renowned chef struggling to maintain his culinary reputation amidst rapidly changing trends in the food industry. Directed by Daniel Cohen, this charming tale showcases Reno's comedic timing and ability to evoke genuine emotion while playing such an endearing character.

  • Subway
    11
    Jean Reno, Isabelle Adjani, Christopher Lambert
    16 votes

    In Luc Besson’s stylish crime-comedy Subway, Jean Reno plays The Drummer - a quirky character residing within Paris' underground subway system alongside other eccentric misfits. With its unique visual aesthetic and engaging storyline, this cult classic allows Reno to showcase his comedic talents amidst an ensemble cast that includes Christopher Lambert and Isabelle Adjani.

  • Flyboys
    12
    James Franco, Martin Henderson, Jean Reno
    16 votes

    Set during World War I, Tony Bill's historical drama Flyboys stars Jean Reno as Captain Thenault – leader of the legendary Lafayette Escadrille fighter squadron comprised of American pilots. Displaying a range of emotions from stoicism to vulnerability, Reno delivers a captivating performance that complements the film's breathtaking aerial battles.

  • The Da Vinci Code
    13
    Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen
    47 votes

    Based on Dan Brown's renowned bestseller, Ron Howard's adaptation of The Da Vinci Code stars Jean Reno as Captain Bezu Fache, a French police detective embroiled in the mystery surrounding religious history, secret societies, and ancient symbols. With an intricate plot that keeps viewers guessing until the very end, this thriller showcases Reno's versatility as he delivers a gripping performance alongside Tom Hanks' Robert Langdon. A must-watch for fans of Jean Reno and lovers of suspenseful stories alike.

  • Hotel Rwanda
    14
    Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Joaquin Phoenix
    38 votes

    In Terry George's poignant drama Hotel Rwanda, based on real-life events during the Rwandan genocide, Jean Reno takes on the role of French businessman Mr. Tillens. Though not the central figure in this harrowing tale, Reno delivers a powerful performance that contributes to the film's emotional impact and gripping nature.

  • Nikita
    15
    Jean Reno, Jeanne Moreau, Anne Parillaud
    47 votes

    Jean Reno stars in Luc Besson's highly influential action thriller, Nikita, as Victor "The Cleaner", a cold-hearted hitman assigned to clean up after the film's titular character (played by Anne Parillaud). With its stylized visuals and expertly crafted action sequences, Nikita remains an essential piece of cinema history. Reno's intense portrayal of Victor adds depth to the film, further cementing his status as a versatile acting talent.

  • Empire of the Wolves
    16
    Jean Reno, Laura Morante, Arly Jover
    28 votes

    In Chris Nahon's thrilling adaptation of Jean-Christophe Grangé novel Empire of the Wolves (L'Empire des Loups), Jean Reno portrays police officer Jean-Louis Schiffer investigating a series of grisly murders within Paris' Turkish community. His unwavering commitment to his role and the film's complex plot make Empire of the Wolves a must-see for fans of international intrigue and suspense.

  • Ruby & Quentin
    17
    Jean Reno, Gérard Depardieu, Leonor Varela
    29 votes

    In Francis Veber's buddy comedy Ruby & Quentin (Tais-toi!), Jean Reno shares the screen with Gérard Depardieu as Ruby – a hardened criminal seeking revenge against his former partner who betrayed him. As they embark on a wild series of escapades together, both actors demonstrate their exceptional comedic chemistry in this entertaining romp through France's criminal underworld.

  • Mission: Impossible
    18
    Tom Cruise, Jon Voight, Henry Czerny
    48 votes

    Brian De Palma’s groundbreaking action-adventure film Mission: Impossible features Jean Reno as Franz Krieger – an enigmatic member of Tom Cruise’s covert operation team tasked with recovering stolen information. The film’s thrilling stunts and non-stop action ensure viewers remain engaged throughout its runtime, while Reno’s strong performance only adds to its enduring appeal.

  • Godzilla
    19
    Matthew Broderick, Jean Reno, Maria Pitillo
    38 votes

    Roland Emmerich's modern take on the classic monster movie Godzilla features Jean Reno as Philippe Roaché - a French secret agent tasked with stopping the giant reptilian creature rampaging through New York City. Filled with stunning visual effects and exhilarating action sequences, this blockbuster showcases Reno's undeniable screen presence amidst an ensemble cast including Matthew Broderick and Hank Azaria.

  • French Kiss
    20
    Meg Ryan, Kevin Kline, Timothy Hutton
    32 votes

    Romantic comedy enthusiasts will appreciate Jean Reno's supporting role as Inspector Jean-Paul Cardon in Lawrence Kasdan’s French Kiss. Alongside Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, Reno adds charm and humor to the lighthearted story of love, betrayal, and cross-cultural misunderstandings.

  • The Visitors II: The Corridors of Time
    21
    Jean Reno, Christian Clavier, Philippe Nahon
    18 votes

    In this sequel to the hit French comedy Les Visiteurs, Jean-Marie Poiré once again directs Jean Reno as time-displaced nobleman Godefroy de Montmirail on a quest to recover stolen family heirlooms before they alter history forever. With its engaging mix of slapstick humor and clever plot twists, The Visitors II: The Corridors of Time is another delightful showcase of Reno’s comedic talent.

  • The Pink Panther 2
    22
    Steve Martin, Jean Reno, Alfred Molina
    37 votes

    In Harald Zwart's sequel to the popular comedy The Pink Panther, Jean Reno reprises his role as Gendarme Gilbert Ponton – a loyal and competent French police officer assisting Inspector Clouseau (played by Steve Martin) in solving a series of high-profile thefts. With its slapstick humor and engaging plot, this family-friendly film offers yet another opportunity for Reno to showcase his comedic prowess.

  • Flushed Away
    23
    Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, Jean Reno
    19 votes

    Jean Reno lends his distinctive voice to the animated comedy Flushed Away, playing Le Frog - an amphibious French assassin tasked with capturing the film's rodent protagonist (voiced by Hugh Jackman). Showcasing his versatility as an actor, Reno brings wit and charisma to this entertaining romp through London's underground sewer system.

  • Just Visiting
    24
    Jean Reno, Christina Applegate, Christian Clavier
    25 votes

    In Jean-Marie Gaubert's English-language remake of Les Visiteurs titled Just Visiting, Jean Reno reprises his role as time-traveling nobleman Thibault de Montmirail alongside Christian Clavier as his hapless servant André. This charming fish-out-of-water tale introduces American audiences to Reno’s comedic talents against a backdrop of modern-day Chicago.

  • Beyond the Clouds
    25
    John Malkovich, Sophie Marceau, Jean Reno
    11 votes

    Beyond the Clouds (Al di là delle nuvole), directed by Michelangelo Antonioni and Wim Wenders, is an anthology film that delves into themes of love and destiny through interconnected stories featuring various characters played by international actors like John Malkovich and Sophie Marceau. In this poetic exploration of human connection, Jean Reno appears as Carlo – providing yet another memorable performance amongst his diverse body of work.

  • The Pink Panther
    26
    Steve Martin, Kevin Kline, Beyoncé
    33 votes

    Jean Reno stars alongside Steve Martin in Shawn Levy’s reboot of the classic Peter Sellers comedy franchise, The Pink Panther. Playing Gendarme Gilbert Ponton, Reno imbues the character with warmth, loyalty and subtle wit in this lighthearted crime caper featuring Martin’s bumbling Inspector Jacques Clouseau.

  • Couples Retreat
    27
    Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau
    15 votes

    Jean Reno takes on the role of Marcel in Peter Billingsley's romantic comedy Couples Retreat, a New Age guru leading group therapy sessions for four troubled couples at an idyllic island resort. Reno's charismatic performance provides a humorous counterpoint to the film's exploration of love, commitment, and relationships.

  • Jet Lag
    28
    Juliette Binoche, Jean Reno, Sergi López i Ayats
    17 votes

    In Danièle Thompson's romantic comedy Jet Lag (Décalage horaire), Jean Reno stars opposite Juliette Binoche as a heartbroken chef crossing paths with a distressed beautician during an airport layover in Paris. With its witty dialogue and endearing chemistry between the two leads, this charming film offers another glimpse into Reno’s range as an actor.

  • The Round Up
    29
    Mélanie Laurent, Jean Reno, Gad Elmaleh
    10 votes

    The harrowing historical drama The Round Up (La Rafle) features Jean Reno as Dr. David Sheinbaum - a Jewish physician caught up in the Nazi-ordered mass arrest of Jews in Paris during World War II. Directed by Roselyne Bosch, this powerful film showcases the depth and emotional intensity of Reno's acting abilities while shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of Holocaust history.

  • Armored
    30
    Matt Dillon, Jean Reno, Laurence Fishburne
    17 votes

    In Nimród Antal's suspenseful heist thriller Armored, Jean Reno assumes the role of Quinn - a member of an armored truck crew planning to stage a high-stakes robbery. With its riveting plot and strong ensemble cast, this adrenaline-fueled action film offers yet another opportunity for Reno to showcase his considerable talents as an actor.