The Best Leonardo DiCaprio Movies

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Updated May 10, 2024 187.1K views 33 items
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Vote for your favorite Leonardo DiCaprio movies, regardless of critic reviews or how big the role was.
Latest additions: Killers of the Flower Moon, The Audition
Most divisive: The Audition
Over 5.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Leonardo DiCaprio Movies

Over 5,000 movie fans have voted to shape these rankings of Leonardo DiCaprio's films. From his Academy Award-winning role in The Revenant to his classic turn as Jack Dawson in Titanic, Leo has had a remarkable career playing some of the most iconic characters ever committed to film. His incredible performances are always memorable and often emotionally powerful, but which were truly the best?

Inception was one of Leo’s biggest hits and continues to be revered by fans for its action sequences, intricate plot lines, and mind-bending twists. Similarly, The Aviator is an epic journey through Howard Hughes's life story that demonstrated Leo's ability to capture both sides of any character he portrays: from their successes down to their flaws. On the other end of the spectrum we find Catch Me If You Can – this lighthearted caper provided a unique take on crime drama with plenty of laughs along the way.

No matter what your favorite genre or type of film is you can probably find something on this list that resonates with you. So vote up your favorites so they make it higher up on our ranking system - after all, who knows what makes a good movie better than dedicated movie fans like yourself?

  • The Wolf of Wall Street
    1
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie
    2,681 votes

    In this astounding Martin Scorsese-directed film, Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a brilliant performance as the ambitious and unscrupulous stockbroker, Jordan Belfort. The film masterfully showcases DiCaprio's incredible range and versatility as an actor, depicting Belfort's meteoric rise to wealth and power, followed by his spectacular downfall. With its razor-sharp scripting, impeccable direction, and powerhouse performances from the entire cast – including Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie – this movie is an undeniable testament to both DiCaprio's acting prowess and Scorsese's legendary directing skills.

  • Inception
    2
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elliot Page
    2,596 votes

    Director Christopher Nolan's mind-bending sci-fi thriller features Leonardo DiCaprio in a breathtaking performance as Dom Cobb, an expert thief who steals valuable secrets from people's subconscious during their dreams. As Cobb embarks on a perilous mission involving "dream-sharing" technology to plant an idea inside someone else's mind, DiCaprio convincingly portrays the emotional complexities of his character while navigating through intricate layers of reality and illusion. His exceptional acting elevates Inception into a masterpiece that continues to be revered by fans and critics alike.

  • Titanic
    3
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
    2,839 votes

    James Cameron's epic romantic drama marked a turning point in Leonardo DiCaprio's career with his iconic portrayal of Jack Dawson. The tragic love story between Jack (DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet) set against the backdrop of the ill-fated ocean liner remains one of the most commercially successful films ever made. Thanks to its unforgettable characters, visually stunning special effects, sweeping score by James Horner, and powerful performances from its leads – particularly DiCaprio – Titanic has solidified its place in cinematic history.

  • Catch Me If You Can
    4
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken
    2,430 votes

    Steven Spielberg directs this exhilarating true-crime story featuring Leonardo DiCaprio as Frank Abagnale Jr., an expert conman who successfully impersonates various professionals while being pursued by a relentless FBI agent (Tom Hanks). DiCaprio's performance as the charming, intelligent, and cunning Abagnale is nothing short of spectacular. The film adeptly balances humor, suspense, and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates captivating storytelling and inspiring performances.

  • The Departed
    5
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
    2,463 votes

    Martin Scorsese's crime-drama masterpiece features Leonardo DiCaprio as undercover cop Billy Costigan infiltrating Boston's Irish mob led by Jack Nicholson's Frank Costello. With its intricate plot filled with twists and turns, The Departed boasts outstanding performances from an all-star cast that includes Matt Damon, Mark Wahlberg, and Alec Baldwin alongside DiCaprio. This gripping tale of loyalty and betrayal showcases DiCaprio's talent in depicting complex characters fraught with internal conflict.

  • Blood Diamond
    6
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Connelly, Djimon Hounsou
    1,600 votes

    Set amidst Sierra Leone's civil war during the 1990s, this powerful drama showcases Leonardo DiCaprio as Danny Archer – an opportunistic diamond smuggler searching for a priceless gem. As he forms an unlikely alliance with a local fisherman named Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou), both men embark on a treacherous quest to recover the stone amid chaos and devastation brought on by warlords and corrupt corporations exploiting Africa's resources. Blood Diamond demonstrates DiCaprio's unwavering commitment to delivering emotionally resonant performances that leave viewers contemplating the film's themes long after it ends.

  • Shutter Island
    7
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley
    2,059 votes

    In this psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio plays Teddy Daniels, a U.S. Marshal investigating the disappearance of a prisoner at an eerie psychiatric facility located on an isolated island. As Teddy delves deeper into the mystery, his grip on reality starts to unravel along with the secrets surrounding Shutter Island. DiCaprio's intense portrayal of a troubled man grappling with his past adds immensely to the film's atmosphere of tension and unease.

  • Django Unchained
    8
    Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio
    2,043 votes

    Quentin Tarantino's stylish and violent Western sees Leonardo DiCaprio in a chilling role as the wicked plantation owner, Calvin Candie. As bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz) and freed slave Django (Jamie Foxx) embark on a mission to rescue Django's wife from Candie's clutches, DiCaprio delivers a haunting performance full of menace and charisma. His superb acting adds depth to this intense tale of vengeance and redemption that has become another standout entry in Tarantino's impressive filmography.

  • The Revenant
    9
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson
    1,246 votes

    In this harrowing survival epic directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Leonardo DiCaprio stars as frontiersman Hugh Glass, who is brutally attacked by a bear and left for dead by his comrades in the wilderness of 1820s America. DiCaprio's raw, visceral performance earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor, showcasing his unrivaled dedication to his craft as he endured extreme physical challenges during filming. The Revenant is an unforgettable testament to human endurance fueled by powerful acting and masterful direction.

  • What's Eating Gilbert Grape
    10
    Johnny Depp, Juliette Lewis, Mary Steenburgen
    1,580 votes

    In this poignant drama directed by Lasse Hallström, Leonardo DiCaprio steals every scene with his heartrending portrayal of Arnie Grape – a teenager with autism living with his dysfunctional family in a small town. Alongside Johnny Depp playing Gilbert Grape, the titular character struggling to balance responsibility for his family with personal desires, DiCaprio delivers an astonishingly authentic performance that garnered him an Academy Award nomination at just 19 years old.

  • The Aviator
    11
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale
    1,344 votes

    Martin Scorsese directs this biopic chronicling the life of eccentric aviation pioneer Howard Hughes (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), whose innovative spirit is countered only by his increasing struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder and reclusiveness. DiCaprio's meticulously researched and nuanced portrayal of Hughes garnered critical acclaim, showcasing the actor's ability to embody complex real-life figures with depth and conviction.

  • Gangs of New York
    12
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cameron Diaz
    1,435 votes

    Martin Scorsese's historical drama set in the gritty underworld of 19th-century New York City stars Leonardo DiCaprio as young Irish immigrant Amsterdam Vallon, seeking revenge against the brutal gang leader Bill "The Butcher" Cutting (Daniel Day-Lewis). The film showcases DiCaprio's capacity for intense character-driven storytelling alongside an all-star cast that includes Cameron Diaz, Jim Broadbent, and John C. Reilly.

  • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
    13
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie
    653 votes

    Quentin Tarantino's love letter to 1960s Los Angeles features Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton – a fading television actor trying to adapt to the changing Hollywood landscape with help from his loyal stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). With remarkable attention to detail, stunning cinematography, and standout performances from its ensemble cast – particularly DiCaprio – this film is a stylish homage to a bygone era of filmmaking.

  • The Great Gatsby
    14
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan
    1,549 votes

    Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel stars Leonardo DiCaprio as the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose opulent lifestyle masks a tragic obsession for his former love Daisy Buchanan (Carey Mulligan). Combining striking visuals with a compelling performance from DiCaprio at its center, this film brings Fitzgerald's timeless story of wealth, love, and disillusionment to life in unforgettable fashion.

  • The Basketball Diaries
    15
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruno Kirby, Lorraine Bracco
    1,093 votes

    Based on Jim Carroll’s autobiographical tale of addiction and recovery, this gripping drama features an early career-defining performance by Leonardo DiCaprio as teenage basketball prodigy turned drug addict Jim Carroll. His raw portrayal captures both the physical and emotional turmoil faced by those battling substance abuse while simultaneously showcasing his impressive acting range and versatility.

  • Romeo + Juliet
    16
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Claire Danes, Brian Dennehy
    1,358 votes

    Baz Luhrmann’s contemporary adaptation of William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Romeo Montague, whose doomed love for Juliet Capulet (Claire Danes) ignites a bloody feud between their rival families. The film showcases DiCaprio's ability to infuse classic literary roles with modern sensibilities, resulting in a strikingly innovative interpretation of a beloved tale.

  • The Man in the Iron Mask
    17
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeremy Irons, John Malkovich
    895 votes

    Leonardo DiCaprio demonstrates his versatility as an actor by playing dual roles as King Louis XIV and his secret twin brother Philippe in this swashbuckling adventure inspired by Alexandre Dumas' classic novel. Taking viewers on a thrilling journey filled with intrigue, action, and romance, this film is another testament to DiCaprio's exceptional talent as a leading man.

  • This Boy's Life
    18
    Robert De Niro, Ellen Barkin, Leonardo DiCaprio
    712 votes

    Based on the memoir by Tobias Wolff, This Boy's Life features Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his earliest starring roles – portraying the author as he navigates adolescence under the oppressive rule of his abusive stepfather (Robert De Niro). As young Toby struggles to find his place amidst adversity, DiCaprio gives an honest and vulnerable performance that hints at the extraordinary career still ahead of him.

  • Revolutionary Road
    19
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Kathy Bates
    867 votes

    Reuniting Titanic co-stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet under the direction of Sam Mendes, Revolutionary Road is a devastating depiction of suburban ennui set during 1950s America. As their once-passionate marriage dissolves into bitter disillusionment, DiCaprio and Winslet deliver extraordinary performances that add depth and complexity to this haunting story of lost dreams and self-deception.

  • The Beach
    20
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tilda Swinton, Virginie Ledoyen
    923 votes

    Danny Boyle’s psychological thriller follows Leonardo DiCaprio as Richard – a young traveler who discovers an idyllic beach paradise hidden away from the world but soon learns that utopia has its dark side. With mesmerizing visuals and an intense performance from its lead, this film captures both the allure and dangers inherent within human desire for escape from reality.

  • The Quick and the Dead
    21
    Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe
    653 votes

    This action-packed Western directed by Sam Raimi stars Leonardo DiCaprio as "The Kid," a young gunslinger entering a deadly dueling competition in an effort to prove his worthiness and confront his estranged father (Gene Hackman). With its expertly staged shootouts, colorful characters, and DiCaprio’s charismatic performance, this film offers an entertaining blend of humor and suspense.

  • Marvin's Room
    22
    Meryl Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, Diane Keaton
    599 votes

    In this moving family drama adapted from Scott McPherson's play, Leonardo DiCaprio stars alongside Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton as Hank – an emotionally troubled teenager forced to confront the realities of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness when his estranged family reunites due to his aunt's terminal illness. With its powerhouse ensemble cast elevating the film's emotional resonance, Marvin's Room is a touching examination of the bonds that hold families together even in the face of adversity.

  • Body of Lies
    23
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe, Mark Strong
    678 votes

    Directed by Ridley Scott, this espionage thriller sees Leonardo DiCaprio portraying CIA operative Roger Ferris as he navigates a complex web of lies and deception in pursuit of a terrorist leader. Co-starring Russell Crowe as Ferris' manipulative superior Ed Hoffman, Body of Lies showcases DiCaprio’s ability to navigate morally ambiguous characters with precision and intensity.

  • Killers of the Flower Moon
    24
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone
    55 votes

    In this upcoming adaptation of David Grann's nonfiction book, directed by Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio stars alongside Robert De Niro in a chilling tale of murder and corruption during the 1920s Oklahoma oil boom. With an acclaimed source material, a legendary director helming the project, and two powerhouse actors leading the ensemble cast, anticipation for Killers of the Flower Moon is high among film enthusiasts eager to see DiCaprio bring another riveting story to life.

  • J. Edgar
    25
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Watts, Armie Hammer
    686 votes

    In another transformative biographical performance under Clint Eastwood's direction, Leonardo DiCaprio stars as J. Edgar Hoover – the controversial founding director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) whose unparalleled power shaped American law enforcement for over four decades. The film provides an unflinching look at Hoover's career while highlighting DiCaprio’s undeniable dedication to inhabiting complex historical figures.

  • Don't Look Up
    26
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep
    105 votes

    This satirical comedy from writer-director Adam McKay features Leonardo DiCaprio alongside an ensemble cast that includes Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett, Jonah Hill, and Meryl Streep. As two low-level astronomers attempting to warn humanity about an impending comet impact with Earth, DiCaprio showcases his comedic timing while delivering a timely message on society's inability to face existential threats.

  • Total Eclipse
    27
    Leonardo DiCaprio, David Thewlis, Romane Bohringer
    79 votes

    Set amidst France's decadent artistic circles during the late 19th century, Total Eclipse features Leonardo DiCaprio as renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud – whose turbulent relationship with fellow poet Paul Verlaine (David Thewlis) leads them down a path of self-destruction. This intense literary drama highlights DiCaprio’s ability to embody intense characters while exploring darker aspects of human nature.

  • The Audition
    28
    Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt
    19 votes

    In this short film directed by Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio stars alongside Robert De Niro as they compete for the same role in an upcoming movie helmed by Scorsese himself. Featuring witty banter between two legendary actors under the direction of one of cinema's greatest auteurs, The Audition is an enjoyable glimpse into the creative dynamic shared among these celebrated talents.

  • Celebrity
    29
    Hank Azaria, Kenneth Branagh, Judy Davis
    80 votes

    Leonardo DiCaprio makes a memorable appearance in Woody Allen's satirical exploration of fame and its trappings set within New York City's elite artistic circles. His brief but impactful role as Brandon Darrow – a spoiled young movie star prone to debauchery – demonstrates DiCaprio’s versatility as an actor capable of skillfully navigating both dramatic and comedic roles.

  • Don's Plum
    30
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Nikki Cox
    62 votes

    This independent drama directed by R.D. Robb features Leonardo DiCaprio in an early role as a member of a group of friends whose weekly gatherings at a local diner reveal their personal struggles and insecurities. As Derek – an aspiring actor – DiCaprio delivers a raw performance that offers a glimpse into his natural talent before he became one of Hollywood's most respected actors.