The Best James Woods Movies

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Updated April 23, 2024 44.2K views 37 items
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More than four hundred movie fans have voted to rank these James Woods films, with some of the best and most beloved performances at the top. With an astonishing career spanning more than four decades, actor James Woods has become one of Hollywood's most prolific stars. He's portrayed a range of characters, from hard-boiled cops to slimy villains and even the occasional lovable scoundrel.

Woods' portrayal of Byron De La Beckwith in Ghosts of Mississippi is perhaps his crowning achievement - it earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor - but he's also given us memorable performances in films such as Once Upon A Time In America, Videodrome, The Onion Field, Salvador and Casino.

But which are truly his best movies? This list ranks all of James Wood's films by user votes so you can decide once and for all which ones deserve your time (and maybe even a rewatch). From classic thrillers like True Crime to family dramas like Contact, there are plenty of great choices here that prove why Woods continues to be one of Hollywood’s biggest names today. So take a look through this list now and vote up your favorites.

  • Once Upon a Time in America
    1

    Once Upon a Time in America

    Robert De Niro, James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern
    95 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This epic crime drama showcases Woods' talent for playing intense, complex characters as he stars alongside Robert De Niro in Sergio Leone's masterpiece. His portrayal of gangster Max Bercovicz is both chilling and mesmerizing, making it a must-watch for fans of his powerful performances.

    Sweeping across decades, Once Upon a Time in America is a crime drama that explores the lives of Jewish ghetto youths who rise to prominence in New York's world of organized crime. The narrative oscillates between the 1920s, 1930s, and 1960s, focusing on David 'Noodles' Aaronson (Robert De Niro) and his lifelong friend-cum-rival, Maximilian 'Max' Bercovicz (James Woods). Directed by Sergio Leone, this film weaves a complex tapestry of friendship, betrayal, and regret. It is an epic saga of time's inexorable march, set against the backdrop of violent criminal underworld. This movie was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards.
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  • The Onion Field
    2

    The Onion Field

    John Savage, James Woods, Franklyn Seales
    42 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Biography, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Based on a true story, this gripping film features an outstanding performance by Woods as a remorseless cop-killer who faces off against the LAPD. His raw and unapologetic portrayal of Gregory Powell earned him critical acclaim and solidified his status as one of Hollywood's most skilled character actors.

    Charismatic psychopath Greg Powell (James Woods) teams up with Jimmy Youngblood (Franklyn Seales), a petty thief. Driving in Los Angeles in 1963, they are pulled over by Detective Hettinger (John Savage) and his partner, Campbell (Ted Danson), for an illegal U-turn. Panicked, Powell kidnaps the officers and kills Campbell. Hettinger escapes, and his description of the men leads to their arrest. As both men evade prosecution with legal tricks, Hettinger is racked with guilt over his survival.
  • Videodrome
    3

    Videodrome

    James Woods, Deborah Harry, Sonja Smits
    63 votes

    For Fans Of: Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In David Cronenberg's cult classic, Woods delivers a captivating turn as Max Renn, the CEO of a TV station who becomes obsessed with hallucinatory visions after exposure to an experimental broadcast signal. With its surreal imagery and thought-provoking themes, Videodrome provides the perfect platform for Woods' magnetic screen presence.

    Set in a dystopian near-future, Videodrome takes us into the life of Max Renn (James Woods), a cynical television executive seeking sensational content for his station. He stumbles upon Videodrome, a disturbingly realistic broadcast that blurs the lines between perception and reality. As he delves deeper into the show's origins, he is drawn into a dark world of subliminal messaging, hallucination, and violence. Directed by visionary filmmaker David Cronenberg, this science-fiction horror film explores themes of media manipulation, body horror, and technophobia. Despite its unsettling narrative, Videodrome has become an iconic film within the body-horror genre and has garnered a cult following over time.
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  • Salvador
    4

    Salvador

    James Woods, Jim Belushi, Michael Murphy
    50 votes

    For Fans Of: History, Drama, War
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Oliver Stone's politically charged drama offers viewers another stellar performance from Woods as photojournalist Richard Boyle covering the chaos during El Salvador's civil war. His dynamic chemistry with co-star Jim Belushi elevates the film while showcasing his ability to masterfully navigate intense and emotionally charged scenes.

    Unable to find work in America because of his penchant for booze and drugs, photojournalist Richard Boyle (James Woods) heads to El Salvador with his DJ friend Doctor Rock (James Belushi) to see if he can get a gig covering the country's ongoing civil war. Boyle decides it's time to flee the country when the violence escalates to a level that even he is uncomfortable with, but his relationship with an El Salvadorian woman (Elpidia Carrillo) complicates matters.
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  • Ghosts of Mississippi
    5

    Ghosts of Mississippi

    Alec Baldwin, Whoopi Goldberg, James Woods
    47 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Drama, History
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: As white supremacist Byron De La Beckwith in this powerful courtroom drama based on real events, Woods once again showcases his incredible range with a chilling performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

    In this film based on actual events, black activist Medgar Evers (James Pickens Jr.) is murdered in 1963, and much of the evidence points toward white supremacist Byron De La Beckwith (James Woods). However, after two trials, De La Beckwith is acquitted twice by a jury of whites. Now, decades later in 1989, Evers' widow, Myrlie (Whoopi Goldberg), thinks she has evidence to finally convict him. But no lawyer will touch the case except the young and brash Bobby DeLaughter (Alec Baldwin).
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  • Nixon
    6

    Nixon

    Anthony Hopkins, Joan Allen, Powers Boothe
    33 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Drama, History
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In Oliver Stone's biographical drama about President Richard Nixon, Woods brings his signature intensity to the role of H.R. Haldeman, the White House chief of staff during the Watergate scandal. His portrayal provides a fascinating look at the historical figure's darker side.

    Nixon, a political drama, follows the tumultuous life of Richard Nixon (Anthony Hopkins). The film delves into Nixon's early days, his ascension to power, and his infamous downfall following the Watergate scandal. Joan Allen co-stars as Pat Nixon, his supportive yet conflicted wife. Directed by Oliver Stone, this compelling biopic intricately weaves historical events with personal struggles, painting a complex portrait of one of America's most controversial presidents. A recipient of four Academy Award nominations, Nixon presents an engrossing exploration of power, ambition, and the human spirit.
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  • Diggstown
    7

    Diggstown

    James Woods, Louis Gossett, Bruce Dern
    48 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Sport, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This thrilling sports drama features Woods in top form as Gabriel Caine, a con man who orchestrates a high-stakes boxing match in a small town. Combining humor and swagger, Woods' magnetic performance steals every scene he's in.

    After being released from a Georgia prison, smooth-talking con man Gabriel Caine (James Woods) teams up with his partner in crime, Fitz (Oliver Platt), and travels to remote Diggstown. Upon arriving, Fitz and Caine bet the wealthiest resident, former boxing manager John Gillon (Bruce Dern), that they know a guy who can beat Diggstown's 10 best fighters in one day. After Caine reels in "Honey" Roy Palmer (Louis Gossett Jr.), an aging boxer and old acquaintance, the grift is on.
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  • Casino
    8

    Casino

    Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci
    83 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Martin Scorsese's iconic film about mob-controlled casinos offers another riveting showcase for Woods' talents as he masterfully plays Lester Diamond, the sleazy ex-boyfriend of Sharon Stone's Ginger McKenna. Amidst a star-studded cast including Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, Woods still manages to leave an indelible impression.

    In the heart of Las Vegas's glitz and glamour, Casino unfolds. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this crime drama features Sam Ace Rothstein (Robert De Niro), a meticulous casino operator with ties to the mob. Alongside him is Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci), an impulsive enforcer whose volatile nature threatens their empire. Ginger McKenna (Sharon Stone) completes the trio as Ace's opportunistic wife, her loyalty wavering between love and greed. This gritty portrayal of ambition, power, and downfall won Stone a Golden Globe for Best Actress in 1996. As an exploration of corruption within the neon glow of Las Vegas, Casino remains a significant entry in Scorsese's filmography.
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  • Night Moves
    9

    Night Moves

    Gene Hackman, Jennifer Warren, Melanie Griffith
    22 votes

    For Fans Of: Mystery, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this neo-noir thriller, Woods expertly plays Quentin, a small-time crook who gets caught up in a dangerous game involving stolen diamonds. With its atmospheric tone and taut pacing, Night Moves is an underrated gem featuring another strong performance from the versatile actor.

    Hard-nosed private investigator Harry Moseby (Gene Hackman), to distract himself from a rapidly deteriorating marriage, takes a case from an aging B-movie queen (Janet Ward) to locate her runaway daughter, Delly (Melanie Griffith). His search takes him to the Florida Keys, where the girl has been hiding out with her stepfather, Tom (John Crawford), and Tom's lover, Paula (Jennifer Warren). Harry initiates an affair with Paula and soon learns the case is more complex than he first assessed it.
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  • True Believer
    10

    True Believer

    James Woods, Robert Downey, Yuji Okumoto
    45 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Starring as an idealistic attorney who takes on an underdog case involving police corruption and racism, Woods delivers one of his most compelling performances in this courtroom drama that will keep viewers on their toes until the very end.

    Jaded lawyer Eddie Dodd (James Woods), a well-regarded activist in the 1960s whose moment has long passed, now smokes marijuana and defends drug dealers who pay in cash. Recent law graduate Roger Baron (Robert Downey Jr.) becomes Dodd's apprentice, hoping to learn from him. When an agitated mother walks in insisting her son is innocent of the murder he was jailed for eight years ago, idealistic Roger prods Eddie to take the case, and the pair uncovers a huge conspiracy that endangers them both.
  • The Hard Way
    11

    The Hard Way

    Michael J. Fox, James Woods, Stephen Lang
    36 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Comedy, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This action-comedy showcases Woods' comedic chops as he plays a no-nonsense cop forced to team up with an egotistical actor researching a role (played by Michael J. Fox). Their dynamic chemistry drives this fast-paced and enjoyable film that demonstrates Woods' versatility as an actor.

    Seeking to raise his credibility as an actor and to land a role as a tough cop on a new show, Hollywood action star Nick Lang (Michael J. Fox) works a deal with New York City Police Capt. Brix (Delroy Lindo), who by chance is one of his fans. Nick will be paired with detective Lt. John Moss (James Woods) and learn how to act like a real cop. But when Nick drives John crazy with questions and imitating him, he gets in the way of John's pursuit of a serial killer (Stephen Lang).
  • Vampires
    12

    Vampires

    James Woods, Daniel Baldwin, Sheryl Lee
    48 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Horror, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this action-packed horror film directed by John Carpenter, Woods shines as Jack Crow, a vampire hunter seeking revenge against the master bloodsucker who slaughtered his team. His intense and charismatic portrayal elevates the movie's entertainment value and makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

    Ever since his parents were murdered by vampires, Jack Crow (James Woods) has had one purpose in life: putting stakes through bloodsuckers' hearts. With his battle-hardened crew of vampire killers and the assistance of the Catholic Church, Crow roams the New Mexico desert looking for undead lairs to annihilate. But he meets his match when, at a roadside motel, he comes face to face with Jan Valek (Thomas Ian Griffith), a vampire kingpin possessed of incredible powers.
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  • The Boost
    13

    The Boost

    James Woods, Sean Young, John Kapelos
    31 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: As Lenny Brown in this harrowing tale of addiction and self-destruction, Woods delivers an emotionally raw performance that transcends its melodramatic trappings. His powerful portrayal of a man spiraling out of control earned him critical praise and further cemented his reputation as one of Hollywood's most compelling actors.

    Struggling salesman Lenny Brown (James Woods) gets his big break when real estate speculator Max Sherman (Steven Hill) offers him a prime sales position at his Los Angeles firm. The economic boom of the mid-1980s soon has Lenny and his wife, Linda (Sean Young), living in the fast lane, but when a sudden tax-law change causes the real estate bubble to burst, Lenny finds himself unemployed and in debt. At this low point, the couple's once-casual cocaine habit begins to spiral out of control.
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  • Best Seller
    14

    Best Seller

    James Woods, Brian Dennehy, Victoria Tennant
    46 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Crime, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this gripping crime thriller, Woods brings his trademark intensity to the role of hitman Cleve, who teams up with a writer (played by Brian Dennehy) to expose his former employer's criminal activities. With its intricate plot twists and engaging performances, Best Seller is a hidden gem in Woods' extensive filmography.

    Police detective and successful author Dennis Meechum (Brian Dennehy) has not been able to write since his wife's death and owes an overdue manuscript to the publisher. When corporate hit man Cleve (James Woods) proposes his life story as a book, Meechum suspects he is a fraud. However, Cleve has proof of his hits for executive David Madlock (Paul Shenar). While this convinces Meechum, it also endangers his daughter (Allison Balson), whom Madlock kidnaps to stop the story from coming out.
  • Cop
    15

    Cop

    James Woods, Lesley Ann Warren, Charles Durning
    39 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Thriller, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Fans of gritty police dramas will relish this adaptation of the novel Blood on the Moon, where Woods stars as detective Lloyd Hopkins investigating a series of brutal murders in Los Angeles. His relentless pursuit of justice combined with complex character development makes Cop an essential entry in any James Woods fan's collection.

    Los Angeles police Detective Lloyd Hopkins (James Woods) gets in trouble with his superiors for his insubordinate ways. When Lloyd realizes that he's on the trail of a serial killer, he is told not to pursue the case, but he presses forward anyway, fiercely intent on catching the murderer. Eventually, his investigation leads to a feminist bookstore where he falls for Kathleen McCarthy (Lesley Ann Warren), a beautiful aspiring writer. Can Kathleen help Lloyd solve the case?
  • John Q
    16

    John Q

    Denzel Washington, Robert Duvall, James Woods
    30 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this tense medical drama, Woods portrays Dr. Raymond Turner, the cold-hearted hospital administrator who denies a life-saving heart transplant to the son of Denzel Washington's titular character. As always, Woods excels at creating multi-dimensional characters that leave a lasting impact on viewers.

    In the heart-wrenching drama John Q, blue-collar worker John Quincy Archibald (Denzel Washington) finds his world collapsing when his son, Michael (Daniel E. Smith), falls gravely ill. When insurance fails to cover his son's heart transplant, desperation drives John to take drastic measures. He seizes an emergency room, holding staff hostage until his young son is put on the donor list. The tense narrative unravels as police negotiator Frank Grimes (Robert Duvall) steps in, vying for a peaceful resolution. Directed by Nick Cassavetes, this riveting film lays bare society's healthcare struggles and a father's relentless love.
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  • True Crime
    17

    True Crime

    Clint Eastwood, Isaiah Washington, Denis Leary
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Thriller, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this suspenseful crime drama features Woods in a riveting supporting role as Alan Mann, the editor-in-chief of a newspaper covering a death row inmate's last-minute plea for innocence. His on-screen tension with Eastwood elevates the film and showcases his natural talent for playing morally ambiguous characters.

    Journalist Steve Everett (Clint Eastwood) has been sober two months, but things are still going badly. Steve's marriage to Barbara (Diane Venora) is barely holding together, and his editor (Denis Leary) hates him, since Steve has been having an affair with his wife. A chance assignment finds Everett interviewing death row inmate Frank Beachum (Isaiah Washington). When Everett uncovers evidence indicating Beachum may be innocent, he must race against time to uncover the truth.
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  • Split Image
    18

    Split Image

    James Woods, Peter Fonda, Brian Dennehy
    14 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, Sport
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This thought-provoking drama offers an insightful look at cult indoctrination, featuring Woods as Danny Stetson – a private investigator working alongside Peter Fonda and Karen Allen to rescue a young man from a dangerous cult. The film's exploration of psychological manipulation is further enriched by Woods' intense performance.

    Split Image is a 1982 film directed by Ted Kotcheff.
  • Eyewitness
    19

    Eyewitness

    William Hurt, Sigourney Weaver, Christopher Plummer
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this thrilling mystery, Woods plays Ransom, an enigmatic television reporter who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation alongside Sigourney Weaver and William Hurt. His charismatic presence in this complex plot makes Eyewitness another showcase for his impressive acting range.

    New York City custodian Daryll Deever (William Hurt) is a big fan of local news reporter Tony Sokolow (Sigourney Weaver), so he is intrigued when she shows up to cover a story at his workplace. There's been a murder in the office building, and Tony suspects that Daryll may have insight into the crime, a notion that he furthers to stay close to her. However, when those behind the killing begin to think that Daryll really knows something, they target both him and Tony to keep their secrets hidden.
  • Hercules
    20

    Hercules

    Tate Donovan, Josh Keaton, Roger Bart
    26 votes

    For Fans Of: Animation, Adventure, Family
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Fans of animated films will delight in hearing James Woods' voice as Hades, the wicked lord of the underworld in Disney's retelling of Greek mythology. His pitch-perfect comedic timing and distinctive vocal delivery make Hades one of animation's most memorable villains.

    Hercules (Tate Donovan), the son of Zeus (Rip Torn) and Hera (Samantha Eggar), is stripped of his godhood as an infant. Raised on Earth, he must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his place on Mount Olympus. With the help of his trainer, Philoctetes (Danny DeVito), and Megara (Susan Egan), a cunning woman with her own agenda, Hercules faces off against the vindictive Hades (James Woods).
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  • Contact
    21

    Contact

    Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, James Woods
    30 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This science fiction drama offers a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's place in the cosmos, and Woods' captivating portrayal of National Security Advisor Michael Kitz adds depth to the film's complex themes. His commanding presence, even in a supporting role, showcases his ability to enhance any project he participates in.

    In Contact, Dr. Eleanor Arroway (Jodie Foster) is a dedicated scientist, steadfast in her search for extraterrestrial intelligence. She toils away at the SETI program, scouring the cosmos for signs of life. Her relentless pursuit finally pays off when she intercepts a mysterious message from outer space. Matthew McConaughey stars as Palmer Joss, a spiritual man who challenges Arroway's scientific worldview. As Arroway deciphers the enigmatic communique, she embarks on an extraordinary journey that tests her faith in science and humanity. This gripping sci-fi drama directed by Robert Zemeckis was nominated for multiple awards including an Academy Award for Best Sound.
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  • Chaplin
    22

    Chaplin

    Robert Downey, Dan Aykroyd, Geraldine Chaplin
    22 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this celebrated biopic about legendary comedian Charlie Chaplin, Woods delivers an engaging performance as Joseph Scott, an influential Los Angeles attorney who assists Chaplin during various legal troubles. Starring alongside Robert Downey Jr., Woods further demonstrates his talent for blending seamlessly into diverse ensembles.

    Re-creation of the life of comic genius Charlie Chaplin, from his humble beginnings in south London through his early days in British vaudeville, his silent movie career in America and his late masterpieces. His turbulent personal life saw four marriages and an enforced exile from the US - though he returned to receive an honorary Oscar in 1972.
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  • Another Day in Paradise
    23

    Another Day in Paradise

    James Woods, Melanie Griffith, Vincent Kartheiser
    23 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In Larry Clark's gritty crime drama, Woods gives an intense and fearless portrayal of Mel, a small-time crook who recruits two teenage thieves into his gang. The film's unflinching look at the criminal underworld is made all the more memorable by Woods' magnetic screen presence.

    In the 1970s, teen Bobbie (Vincent Kartheiser) supports his drug habit and his girlfriend, Rosie (Natasha Gregson Wagner), with petty crime. When one such job gets ugly, Bobbie looks to seasoned local crook Mel (James Woods) for guidance. Mel, a junkie himself, takes a shine to him, and Bobbie, Rosie, Mel and his lover, Sid (Melanie Griffith), begin pulling heists together. But, thanks to a bit of success and an abundance of narcotics, they get into debt -- and mixed up in murder.
  • Cat's Eye
    24

    Cat's Eye

    Drew Barrymore, James Woods, Alan King
    30 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Horror, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: As part of this Stephen King anthology consisting of interconnected stories involving a mysterious cat, fans can watch a spirited performance from Woods as Dick Morrison – a man attempting to quit smoking through unconventional methods – showcasing his uncanny ability to effortlessly balance humor and horror.

    Stephen King tales follow a cat into a smokers clinic, onto a penthouse ledge and into a girl's (Drew Barrymore) bedroom.
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  • The Virgin Suicides
    25

    The Virgin Suicides

    James Woods, Kathleen Turner, Kirsten Dunst
    25 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Mystery, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: Sofia Coppola's haunting directorial debut features a moving performance from Woods as Mr. Lisbon, the heartbroken father of five sisters whose tragic story unfolds throughout the film. Though not his most prominent role, his nuanced acting adds emotional weight and authenticity to this acclaimed indie classic.

    In The Virgin Suicides, an enigmatic tale unfolds in a quiet suburban neighborhood. The Lisbon sisters, Lux (Kirsten Dunst), Mary (A.J. Cook), Therese (Leslie Hayman), Bonnie (Chelse Swain), and Cecilia (Hanna Hall) are the focus of fascination for a group of neighborhood boys. Guided by the strict hand of their mother (Kathleen Turner) and passive presence of their father (James Woods), these girls navigate adolescence under a heavy shroud of repression and mystery. As the film meanders through this labyrinth of teenage turmoil, it subtly explores themes of isolation, longing, and the tragic consequences of suffocating innocence. This dramatic piece is directed by Sofia Coppola, who won Best First Feature at Independent Spirit Awards for this haunting debut.
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  • Northfork
    26

    Northfork

    James Woods, Nick Nolte, Claire Forlani
    17 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this visually striking and surrealistic tale set in 1950s Montana, Woods portrays Walter O'Brien – a man tasked with evacuating the residents of a doomed town before it's submerged by a dam project. The film's poetic imagery and melancholic atmosphere are complemented by Woods' captivating performance.

    As Northfork, Montana, is being evacuated in preparation for a new dam, young Irwin (Duel Farnes) lies dying in a local orphanage, with Father Harlan (Nick Nolte) by his side, taking care of him. Also yet to leave are Willis (Mark Polish) and his father, Walter (James Woods), who head up the evacuation team. In a comatose state, Irwin has four angelic visitors who hope to find a way for him to leave Northfork, as it faces its demise in the haunting shadow of the dam.
  • My Name Is Bill W.
    27

    My Name Is Bill W.

    James Woods, JoBeth Williams, James Garner
    20 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this inspiring made-for-television biopic, Woods delivers an exceptional portrayal of Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill Wilson, offering a heartfelt exploration of addiction, recovery, and the power of human connection. His sincere acting elevates this powerful story and solidifies his status as one of cinema's most versatile talents.

    This film reconstructs the true story of stockbroker William Griffith Wilson (James Woods), a World War I veteran whose small drinking problem becomes a serious addiction after he loses his fortune in the stock market collapse of 1929. Wilson's career and his domestic life are in tatters when he meets Dr. Robert Holbrook Smith (James Garner), also struggling with a drinking problem. The two form a support group that becomes the basis for the organization Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • The Getaway
    28

    The Getaway

    Alec Baldwin, Kim Basinger, Michael Madsen
    15 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Crime, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: This action-packed crime thriller pairs Woods with Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger as they become entangled in a web of deception and betrayal following a heist gone wrong. As the scheming Jack Benyon, Woods demonstrates his expertise in playing cunning adversaries that leave viewers on edge.

    Doc (Alec Baldwin) and Carol (Kim Basinger) McCoy are married criminals looking for a high-paying score. When Doc ends up in a Mexican prison, Carol tells mob boss Jack Benyon (James Woods) that Doc will work for him if Benyon can free him from prison. Benyon hires Doc to rob a dog track, but after the heist goes terribly wrong, Doc and Carol escape with the cash. With a bitter thief (Michael Madsen) and Benyon's hired help on their trail, Doc and Carol must fight to survive.
  • The Specialist
    29

    The Specialist

    Sylvester Stallone, Sharon Stone, James Woods
    39 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Crime, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In this explosive action movie starring Sylvester Stallone and Sharon Stone, fans can witness Woods at his menacing best as Ned Trent – an ex-CIA operative who becomes embroiled in a deadly rivalry with Stallone's character. It's another exciting example of how Woods brings depth to villainous roles.

    Former CIA demolition expert Ray Quick (Sylvester Stallone) lives in Miami, where he works as a hit man. May Munro (Sharon Stone) contacts Ray to kill a family of mobsters led by Tom Leon (Rod Steiger) and his son (Eric Roberts), who murdered May's parents 20 years ago. Ray agrees to the job and also begins an affair with May. His mission is complicated when he learns his former partner, Ned (James Woods), now works for the mobsters he is trying to kill.
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  • Riding in Cars with Boys
    30

    Riding in Cars with Boys

    Drew Barrymore, Steve Zahn, Brittany Murphy
    14 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Comedy, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love James Woods: In Penny Marshall's bittersweet drama based on Beverly Donofrio's memoir, viewers can appreciate a tender side of Woods as he portrays Beverly's strict but loving father throughout her tumultuous life journey. His sensitive performance contributes to the emotional resonance that makes this film genuinely moving.

    The fresh, funny, touching and true story of writer Beverly Donofrio (played by Drew Barrymore, who ages from 15 to 35 in the role), reveals her coming of age in the late 1960s and her whole life colored by an event that happened when she was 15. The events span more than two decades, as the young heroine experiences often-humorous, sometimes-irreverent, but certainly a unique personal journey to make something meaningful of her life.
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