The 40+ Best Russell Crowe Movies
1Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie NielsenIn the pantheon of epic historical dramas, Ridley Scott's Gladiator holds a distinguished place, thanks in large part to Russell Crowe's powerful performance as Maximus Decimus Meridius. This Oscar-winning film follows the journey of a betrayed Roman general who is forced into slavery, only to rise through the ranks of the gladiatorial arena and seek vengeance against those who wronged him. With its meticulously detailed production design, pulse-pounding battle sequences, and emotionally resonant storytelling, Gladiator remains an enduring testament to Crowe's ability to command the screen with equal parts ferocity and pathos.
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2Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer ConnellyDirector Ron Howard's acclaimed biographical drama A Beautiful Mind showcases Russell Crowe at his most vulnerable and captivating as John Nash, a brilliant mathematician grappling with schizophrenia. Based on the biography by Sylvia Nasar, this Oscar-winning film delves deep into Nash's personal struggles as he navigates relationships, professional challenges, and mental illness while making groundbreaking contributions to game theory. Bolstered by a strong supporting cast that includes Jennifer Connelly and Ed Harris, A Beautiful Mind is a masterfully crafted portrait of resilience and genius.
3Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, Billy BoydSet during the Napoleonic Wars, Peter Weir's adventure-drama Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World features Russell Crowe in top form as Captain Jack Aubrey, whose ship is relentlessly pursued by a superior French war vessel through treacherous seas. Blending thrilling naval battles with poignant character moments, this film offers both gripping action sequences and richly drawn portrayals set against a meticulously researched historical backdrop. Featuring standout performances from Paul Bettany as Aubrey's confidant Dr. Stephen Maturin and an awe-inspiring score by Iva Davies, Christopher Gordon, and Richard Tognetti; this film captures the spirit of Patrick O'Brian's beloved novels.
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4Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy PearceRussell Crowe's smoldering intensity as the brutish but idealistic police officer Bud White is front and center in Curtis Hanson's noir thriller, L.A. Confidential. Set in 1950s Los Angeles, this stylish crime drama unravels a web of corruption and deceit within the LAPD, with Crowe's character forming an uneasy alliance with fellow officers played by Guy Pearce and Kevin Spacey to uncover the truth. Adapted from James Ellroy's novel, L.A. Confidential boasts a sharp screenplay, evocative cinematography, and an ensemble cast that includes Kim Basinger in her Oscar-winning role.
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5Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul GiamattiIn Ron Howard's Depression-era biopic Cinderella Man, Russell Crowe delivers a knockout performance as real-life heavyweight boxer James J. Braddock, whose improbable comeback captured the hearts and minds of millions during a time of widespread hardship. Supported by Renée Zellweger as his steadfast wife Mae and Paul Giamatti as his loyal manager Joe Gould, Crowe skillfully conveys Braddock's determination to provide for his family against all odds while remaining true to his values in the face of adversity. This inspirational tale packs an emotional punch that lingers long after the final bell rings.
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6Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, Logan LermanJames Mangold's riveting Western remake 3:10 to Yuma pits Russell Crowe against Christian Bale in a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse set amidst the rugged frontier landscape. As charismatic outlaw Ben Wade, Crowe exudes danger and charm in equal measure; while Bale delivers a compelling turn as Dan Evans, the beleaguered rancher tasked with delivering Wade to justice aboard the titular train. Tense standoffs, thrilling shootouts, and unexpected alliances abound in this tautly-paced film that showcases two powerhouse actors at their finest.
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7Al Pacino, Russell Crowe, Christopher PlummerIn Michael Mann's gripping corporate thriller The Insider, Russell Crowe delivers a tour de force performance as Jeffrey Wigand, the real-life whistleblower who exposed unethical practices in the tobacco industry. As a former research chemist turned public advocate struggling with personal and professional consequences of his actions, Crowe conveys Wigand's turmoil and determination with raw intensity. Bolstered by a strong supporting cast that includes Al Pacino and Christopher Plummer, this film offers an unflinching look at the high-stakes world of corporate greed and its human cost.
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8Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel EjioforRussell Crowe and Denzel Washington face off in Ridley Scott's crime epic American Gangster, which chronicles the rise of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas (Washington) and the dogged efforts of New Jersey detective Richie Roberts (Crowe) to bring him down. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1970s New York City, this gritty drama benefits from Scott's immersive direction, an evocative score by Marc Streitenfeld, and magnetic performances from its two leading men. With its unvarnished examination of corruption on both sides of the law, American Gangster offers a nuanced portrait of power dynamics in an amoral world.
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9Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, William HurtRidley Scott reunites with his Gladiator star in this bold reimagining of the legendary folk hero Robin Hood. Russell Crowe brings depth and gravitas to his portrayal of Sir Robin Longstride, a skilled archer who becomes entangled in political intrigue while fighting for justice against ruthless foes like Sir Godfrey (Mark Strong). Featuring breathtaking cinematography by John Mathieson and rousing fight sequences choreographed by Ridley Scott himself, this action-packed adventure provides an engaging glimpse into medieval life while exploring timeless themes such as loyalty, courage, and heroism.
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10Russell Crowe, Daniel Pollock, Jacqueline McKenzieRussell Crowe burst onto the international scene with his mesmerizing performance in Geoffrey Wright's controversial 1992 drama Romper Stomper. As Hando, the charismatic leader of a violent neo-Nazi gang in Melbourne, Crowe gives a harrowing portrayal that resonates with raw intensity and nerve-shattering menace. Despite its divisive subject matter, this unflinching examination of hate-fueled fanaticism offers an early glimpse at Crowe's formidable acting prowess and remains a vital entry in his diverse body of work.
11Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks, Brian DennehyIn Paul Haggis' gripping thriller The Next Three Days, Russell Crowe delivers a quietly intense performance as John Brennan, a college professor who becomes obsessed with breaking his wife (Elizabeth Banks) out of prison after she's convicted of murder. This tense drama unfolds at a deliberate pace while testing the limits of one man's ingenuity and moral compass, as he finds himself drawn deeper into an unfamiliar world of crime and deception. Featuring standout supporting turns from Liam Neeson and Olivia Wilde, this film challenges viewers to consider the lengths they would go to protect the ones they love.
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12Russell Crowe, Marion Cotillard, Albert FinneyRussell Crowe demonstrates his versatility in A Good Year, Ridley Scott's charming romantic comedy set amidst the picturesque vineyards of Provence. As Max Skinner, a cutthroat London banker turned impromptu winemaker following the death of his uncle (Albert Finney), Crowe balances cynicism and vulnerability while navigating life-changing decisions about love, family, and career satisfaction. With its lush cinematography by Philippe Le Sourd and heartwarming story by Peter Mayle—adapted for the screen by Marc Klein—A Good Year is an enjoyable respite that showcases both the beauty of rural France and Crowe's ability to connect with audiences across genres.
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13Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria, Mary McCormackIn Jay Roach's offbeat sports dramedy Mystery, Alaska, Russell Crowe portrays John Biebe, the sheriff of a small Arctic town whose residents share an obsessive love for ice hockey. When their local team is challenged to play against the New York Rangers in an exhibition match, Biebe must rally his fellow townspeople to rise to the occasion while coping with personal and cultural issues unique to life in Alaska's extreme environment. Featuring standout performances from Burt Reynolds and Mary McCormack, this quirky tale embraces its eccentric locales and characters with humor, warmth, and genuine affection.
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14Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell CroweRussell Crowe brings soulful intensity to his role as Cort, a reformed gunslinger forced into participating in a deadly shoot-out tournament organized by a sadistic outlaw (Gene Hackman) in Sam Raimi's stylish Western The Quick and the Dead. As he squares off against fellow competitors played by Sharon Stone and Leonardo DiCaprio; Cort grapples with past sins while seeking redemption through acts of heroism within an unforgiving landscape. With its striking visuals and inventive camera work, this film offers a fresh take on traditional genre tropes while showcasing Crowe at his charismatic best.
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15Meg Ryan, Russell Crowe, David MorseAs a skilled hostage negotiator in Taylor Hackford's tense thriller Proof of Life, Russell Crowe demonstrates his ability to captivate viewers through quiet determination and steely resolve. Tasked with securing the release of a kidnapped American engineer (David Morse) from South American rebels, Crowe's character Danny Roman must navigate treacherous terrain—both literal and figurative—to achieve success amidst mounting obstacles. Aided by strong supporting turns from Meg Ryan as the desperate wife and David Caruso as Roman's trusted colleague; this film keeps audiences riveted until its satisfying conclusion.
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16Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdamsIn Kevin Macdonald's taut political thriller State of Play, Russell Crowe stars as Cal McAffrey, an investigative journalist whose pursuit of a murder case leads him into a web of conspiracy involving his former college friend turned Congressman Stephen Collins (Ben Affleck). With its timely exploration of media ethics and political corruption in contemporary America; this film benefits from its strong ensemble cast—including Rachel McAdams as an ambitious young reporter—and deft direction that keeps viewers engaged until the final twist.
17Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Hugh JackmanTom Hooper's critically acclaimed adaptation of Victor Hugo's classic novel Les Miserables features Russell Crowe as relentless police inspector Javert, who doggedly pursues escaped convict Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) across the years and through a turbulent period of French history. Despite being overshadowed by the film's larger-than-life musical numbers and standout performances from Anne Hathaway and Amanda Seyfried; Crowe's nuanced portrayal of Javert adds depth to the story's themes of justice, redemption, and mercy.
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18Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe, Mark StrongTeaming up once again with director Ridley Scott in Body of Lies, Russell Crowe plays Ed Hoffman—a shrewd CIA officer orchestrating covert operations in the Middle East to disrupt terrorist networks. As he remotely guides field agent Roger Ferris (Leonardo DiCaprio) on increasingly dangerous missions while navigating geopolitical complexities; their tense dynamic powers the film's high-stakes narrative. This action-packed espionage thriller showcases both actors' talents while providing thought-provoking insights into modern warfare techniques and ethical quandaries inherent to intelligence work.
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19Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Angourie RiceRussell Crowe brings a droll sense of humor to his role as Jackson Healy—an enforcer turned private investigator—in Shane Black's neo-noir comedy The Nice Guys. Set against the seedy underbelly of 1970s Los Angeles, this odd-couple caper follows Healy and his reluctant partner Holland March (Ryan Gosling) as they uncover a labyrinthine conspiracy involving murder, pornography, and political corruption. With its whip-smart dialogue and irreverent tone, this film offers a playful departure from Crowe's more serious roles while demonstrating his impressive comedic chops.
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20Russell Crowe, Caren Pistorius, Gabriel BatemanIn the nerve-jangling thriller Unhinged, Russell Crowe takes on the role of a deranged motorist whose road rage spirals into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with an unsuspecting single mother (Caren Pistorius). As he stalks his prey through suburban streets with relentless intensity; this film delivers tension-filled moments that keep viewers on edge until its explosive conclusion. Although not for the faint-hearted, Unhinged serves as a showcase for Crowe's ability to inhabit dark characters and maintain screen presence even in less-than-heroic scenarios.
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21Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael ShannonRussell Crowe lends his gravitas and commanding screen presence to the role of Jor-El in Zack Snyder's Superman reboot Man of Steel. As the birth father to Kal-El (Henry Cavill), Jor-El imparts wisdom and guidance to his son from beyond the grave while grappling with the impending destruction of their home planet Krypton. Sensitive yet authoritative in his portrayal; this film adds depth to an iconic character while providing audiences with an exciting new entry into DC Comics' cinematic universe.
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22Russell Crowe, Olga Kurylenko, Yilmaz ErdoganAs both leading actor and director in The Water Diviner, Russell Crowe showcases a keen eye for visual storytelling alongside his always-compelling performance. In this poignant period drama set shortly after World War I; Crowe portrays Joshua Connor—an Australian farmer searching for answers concerning his three missing sons who fought at Gallipoli. This moving tale of love, loss, and redemption features stunning cinematography by Andrew Lesnie along with heartfelt performances from Olga Kurylenko and Yilmaz Erdogan that bring humanity to a deeply affecting story.
23Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe, Catherine Zeta-JonesRussell Crowe delivers a standout performance as ruthless New York City Mayor Nicholas Hostetler in Allen Hughes' gritty political thriller Broken City. When disgraced ex-cop turned private investigator Billy Taggart (Mark Wahlberg) is hired by Hostetler to investigate his wife's infidelity, he soon discovers an intricate web of corruption and deceit that leads back to the highest echelons of power. This gripping film keeps viewers engaged with its twisty narrative and compelling character dynamics; anchored by strong performances from Crowe, Wahlberg, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
24Lucas Hedges, Nicole Kidman, Joel EdgertonIn Joel Edgerton's acclaimed drama Boy Erased, Russell Crowe plays Marshall Eamons—a conservative Baptist pastor struggling to come to terms with his son's homosexuality. As Jared (Lucas Hedges) undergoes conversion therapy at a church-run program, Crowe effectively conveys the emotional turmoil of a father caught between his faith and love for his child. Supported by powerful performances from Nicole Kidman and Edgerton himself; this sensitive exploration of self-acceptance offers audiences a thought-provoking look at the potential harm caused by misguided attempts at "curing" LGBTQ+ individuals.
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25Caroline Goodall, Russell Crowe, AmielIn the family-friendly adventure film The Silver Brumby, Russell Crowe portrays an ambitious young bushman named Egan who becomes obsessed with capturing a legendary wild horse known for its speed and beauty. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Australia's Snowy Mountains region; this enchanting tale captures both the majesty of nature and the indomitable spirit embodied by its equine hero—voiced by Caroline Goodall—and human characters alike.
26Hugo Weaving, Genevieve Picot, Russell CroweAn early showcase for Russell Crowe's impressive acting range can be found in Jocelyn Moorhouse's 1991 drama Proof—a unique examination of trust, friendship, and love through the eyes of a blind man named Martin (Hugo Weaving). When Martin hires a young kitchen hand named Andy (Crowe) to describe photographs he takes as "proof" against his inherent mistrust of the world; their complicated relationship unfolds with emotional resonance and subtle humor. Featuring strong performances from its lead actors, this film is considered one of Australia's finest cinematic exports.
27Denzel Washington, Kelly Lynch, Russell CroweRussell Crowe tackles the role of an artificial intelligence gone rogue in Brett Leonard's sci-fi thriller Virtuosity. As SID 6.7—a sadistic virtual reality entity who escapes into the real world by taking on a human form—Crowe relishes the opportunity to chew scenery while engaging in a high-stakes battle against former police officer Parker Barnes (Denzel Washington). Though not typically remembered among his more acclaimed roles; this film offers fans a glimpse at Crowe's ability to embody villainous characters with gleeful abandon.
28Russell Crowe, Youki Kudoh, Kenji IsomuraIn Craig Lahiff's action-packed crime drama Heaven's Burning, Russell Crowe stars as Colin O'Brien—an Australian getaway driver whose latest job goes disastrously awry when he becomes involved with a Japanese bride named Midori (Yûki Kudô) fleeing her arranged marriage. As they navigate their way through dangerous encounters and unexpected bonds across Sydney, this film delivers thrilling chase sequences and dramatic twists that keep viewers engaged from start to finish.
29Russell Crowe, Charlotte Rampling, Wayne PygramSet in rural Australia during World War I, Ann Turner's period drama Hammers Over the Anvil examines themes of love, loss, and self-discovery through the eyes of Alan Marshall (Alexander Outhred)—a young boy coping with polio—who idolizes rugged horse breaker East Driscoll (Russell Crowe). When East embarks on an ill-fated affair with Grace McAlister (Charlotte Rampling), it sets off a chain of events that leads to tragedy and profound personal growth. With its breathtaking cinematography and strong performances, this film offers an engaging exploration of the human condition in an evocative setting.
30Jack Thompson, Russell Crowe, John PolsonRussell Crowe displays his comedic timing and emotional depth in Kevin Dowling and Geoff Burton's heartfelt drama The Sum of Us. As Jeff Mitchell—a gay man seeking love and acceptance while living with his supportive father, Harry (Jack Thompson)—Crowe navigates the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the 1990s with sensitivity and nuance. This tender tale of family bonds, self-discovery, and the quest for happiness resonates with viewers through its authentic performances and universal themes.
