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The Best Actors In Film History

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Updated April 16, 2024 2.1M views 574 items

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3.3M votes

189.7K voters

362 reranks

Voting Rules

Vote up the great male actors based on their film careers only.

The best actors in film history is a great subject of debate. These are the greatest actors ever to appear on the silver screen - male only (to vote on both genders, check out this list of the greatest film actors and actresses). These gentlemen were part of some of the greatest movies of all time (or were perhaps the reason they were the best movies ever), with countless Academy Awards between them.

What are the qualities of the best actors of all time? Remember, this is not simply about the most famous actors of all time, or the most popular actors. Is it the raw emotion they show, the parts they choose, their acting methods, or simply their effortless charm and charisma? There's no denying some of these amazing actors belong on the list of the hottest male celebrities, but behind the 1,000-watt smiles lies the talent that defines generations of top actors. Who knows? Perhaps the number one person on this list is objectively the best actor in the world.

But seriously, who is the best actor of all time? Is it a classic actor like Marlon Brando, a comedic genius like Charlie Chaplin, a double-threat like Clint Eastwood, or a method actor like Daniel Day Lewis? There are so many choices for the greatest movie actor ever that you may have a hard time picking just one. Good thing you can vote for as many candidates for best actors ever as you'd like. Then check back to see if your favorites have made it into the top ten actors. You can also vote on the top actors of this year.

Most divisive: Arnold Schwarzenegger

Over 189.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Actors In Film History

1
Anthony Hopkins
The Silence of the Lambs, Thor, Thor: The Dark World
42,280 votes
British actor Anthony Hopkins mesmerizes audiences with his commanding voice and intense acting style. Known for his chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, Hopkins has also excelled in period dramas such as Howard's End and The Remains of the Day. His prolific acting career demonstrates his versatility and adaptability to various genres.
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2
Denzel Washington
Remember the Titans, Glory, Training Day
40,767 votes
Denzel Washington is a Hollywood legend with a magnetic screen presence that exudes charisma and authority. From his groundbreaking role in Malcolm X to his gritty portrayal of a crooked cop in Training Day, Washington has consistently delivered powerful performances throughout his career. A two-time Academy Award winner, he continues to be a sought-after leading man in the film industry.
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3
Al Pacino
The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, Scarface
52,212 votes
With his intense gaze and captivating screen presence, Al Pacino is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors of all time. Known for his unforgettable roles in The Godfather trilogy, Scarface, and Serpico, Pacino consistently delivers powerful performances that leave lasting impressions. His incredible body of work has earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for his role in Scent of a Woman.
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4
Robert De Niro
Goodfellas, The Godfather Part II, Taxi Driver
51,182 votes
An actor of remarkable depth and skill, Robert De Niro has been captivating audiences for over five decades with iconic performances in films like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas. His collaboration with legendary director Martin Scorsese has produced some of cinema's most memorable moments. With two Academy Awards under his belt, De Niro remains one of Hollywood's most revered talents.
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5
Leonardo DiCaprio
Titanic, Inception, The Departed
55,723 votes
A powerhouse of talent, Leonardo DiCaprio has captivated audiences with his incredible performances in a wide range of films. From playing the charming Jack Dawson in Titanic to portraying the enigmatic Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, DiCaprio's versatility and dedication to his craft are evident. With an Academy Award win for his role in The Revenant, his skill as an actor remains unparalleled.
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6
Daniel Day-Lewis
Gangs of New York, The Last of the Mohicans, There Will Be Blood
39,194 votes
Widely hailed as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Daniel Day-Lewis is renowned for his immersive method acting and complete transformation into his roles. From his emotionally charged performance in My Left Foot to his iconic portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Lincoln, Day-Lewis's commitment to his craft is unmatched. A three-time Academy Award winner, Day-Lewis announced his retirement from acting in 2017.
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7
Morgan Freeman
The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins
45,372 votes
The soothing voice and calm demeanor of Morgan Freeman have made him a beloved figure in the world of cinema. From his heartfelt portrayal of a former inmate in The Shawshank Redemption to his wise presence as God in Bruce Almighty, Freeman brings grace and elegance to every role. His long and illustrious career has earned him both critical acclaim and audience adoration.
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8
Gary Oldman
The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins
30,795 votes
A chameleon-like actor, Gary Oldman has an uncanny ability to disappear into his roles, showcasing incredible versatility throughout his career. His captivating performances in films such as Sid and Nancy, Bram Stoker's Dracula, and The Dark Knight have left indelible marks on the cinematic landscape. Oldman's transformative skills were recognized with an Academy Award win for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour.
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9
Jack Nicholson
The Shining, The Departed, Batman
47,598 votes
Known for his devilish grin and intense on-screen presence, Jack Nicholson is a living legend in the world of cinema. His unforgettable performances in classics like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Shining, and A Few Good Men have made him one of the most celebrated actors in film history. With three Academy Awards to his name, Nicholson's status as a cinematic icon remains unchallenged.
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10
Robin Williams
Aladdin, Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society
34,978 votes
One of the most beloved comedians of all time, Robin Williams had a rare ability to light up any room with his wit and warmth. His unforgettable performances in classics like Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society, and Mrs. Doubtfire showcased his incredible range and depth as an actor. Tragically, his untimely passing in 2014 left a void in the hearts of fans worldwide.
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11
Alan Rickman
Die Hard, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
22,970 votes
With his distinctive voice and memorable on-screen presence, Alan Rickman charmed audiences with his incredible range as an actor. Best known for his portrayal of Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series, Rickman also excelled as the villainous Hans Gruber in Die Hard. Despite his untimely passing in 2016, Rickman's legacy in film continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
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12
Christian Bale
The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins
31,357 votes
Christian Bale's dedication to his craft and incredible physical transformations are hallmarks of his remarkable acting career. From his haunting performance in American Psycho to his iconic role as Batman in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy, Bale consistently delivers powerful performances that captivate audiences. His commitment to embodying each character has earned him both critical acclaim and commercial success.
13
Michael Caine
The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins
28,258 votes
With a career spanning over six decades, Michael Caine has become a beloved figure in the world of cinema. Known for his distinctive Cockney accent and unforgettable roles in films like Alfie, The Italian Job, and The Dark Knight trilogy, Caine's charm and gravitas have made him both a critical and commercial favorite. His two Academy Awards are a testament to his enduring talent.
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14
Harrison Ford
Star Wars, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Blade Runner
29,750 votes
A true Hollywood icon, Harrison Ford has been entertaining audiences for decades with his dashing good looks and effortless charm. Best known for his roles as Han Solo in the Star Wars saga and Indiana Jones in the titular film series, Ford's performances have become synonymous with adventure and excitement. His enduring appeal and dynamic screen presence have solidified his status as a leading man in the film industry.
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15
Heath Ledger
The Dark Knight, Brokeback Mountain, The Patriot
25,226 votes
The magnetic talent of Heath Ledger was evident from the very beginning of his career. With his charming performance in 10 Things I Hate About You, Ledger quickly became a fan favorite. Sadly, his life was tragically cut short in 2008, but not before giving an unforgettable and chilling portrayal of The Joker in The Dark Knight, for which he posthumously won an Academy Award.
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16
Marlon Brando
The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Superman
41,256 votes
Widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, Marlon Brando revolutionized the craft of acting with his method approach and undeniable charisma. His iconic performances in A Streetcar Named Desire, On the Waterfront, and The Godfather remain legendary in the annals of film history. Brando's unique blend of raw talent and vulnerability secured him a permanent place in the pantheon of Hollywood greats.
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17
Robert Duvall
The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, Apocalypse Now
26,472 votes
A true acting heavyweight, Robert Duvall's storied career is marked by powerful performances in classics like The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, and To Kill a Mockingbird. His versatility and commitment to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for his role in Tender Mercies. With a career spanning over six decades, Duvall remains a revered figure in the world of cinema.
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18
Samuel L. Jackson
The Avengers, Pulp Fiction, Jurassic Park
27,852 votes
Samuel L. Jackson's commanding voice and fierce demeanor have made him one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. Known for his collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino and his iconic role as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Jackson is a powerhouse of talent. His vast filmography and unmistakable charisma have solidified his status as a cinematic legend.
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19
Sean Connery
Goldfinger, The Untouchables, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
25,435 votes
The original James Bond, Sean Connery, exuded suave sophistication and unmatched charisma throughout his esteemed career. With his distinctive Scottish brogue and undeniable screen presence, Connery made Bond an iconic character in the annals of film history. Beyond his role as the debonair spy, Connery excelled in films like The Hunt for Red October and The Untouchables, for which he won an Academy Award.
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20
Robert Downey Jr.
The Avengers, Iron Man, Iron Man 3
28,464 votes
The remarkable comeback story of Robert Downey Jr. is a testament to his incredible talent and resilience. Overcoming addiction and legal troubles, Downey catapulted to superstardom with his portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His magnetic on-screen presence and quick wit have endeared him to fans worldwide.
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21
Brad Pitt
Fight Club, Seven, The Departed
27,204 votes
Combining good looks with exceptional talent, Brad Pitt has been a fixture in Hollywood for decades. From his breakout role in Thelma & Louise to his recent Academy Award-winning performance in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Pitt continues to captivate audiences with his versatile acting abilities. His filmography includes iconic roles in films such as Fight Club, Se7en, and 12 Years a Slave.
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22
Ian McKellen
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, X-Men
21,204 votes
Sir Ian McKellen's commanding stage presence and impressive acting range have made him one of the most respected actors of his generation. Best known for his roles as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Magneto in the X-Men series, McKellen's ability to embody complex characters with depth and nuance is unparalleled. His extensive theater work and on-screen performances have earned him numerous accolades, including several Tony and Olivier Awards.
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23
Willem Dafoe
Finding Nemo, Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2
15,728 votes
Willem Dafoe's intense gaze and striking features have made him one of the most distinctive actors in Hollywood. Known for his roles in films like Platoon, The Last Temptation of Christ, and Spider-Man, Dafoe's ability to portray complex and often tortured characters has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations, including four Academy Award nods.
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24
Tommy Lee Jones
No Country for Old Men, Men in Black, Captain America: The First Avenger
21,886 votes
Tommy Lee Jones's rugged demeanor and no-nonsense attitude have made him a beloved figure in the world of cinema. With memorable roles in films like The Fugitive, Men in Black, and No Country for Old Men, Jones's ability to command attention on-screen is undeniable. His impressive body of work has not only earned him an Academy Award but also the respect of audiences worldwide.
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25
Clint Eastwood
Good, Unforgiven, Dirty Harry
35,278 votes
From his days as a spaghetti western gunslinger to his transition into directing, Clint Eastwood has remained a cinematic force for over six decades. His roles in iconic films such as Dirty Harry, Unforgiven, and Gran Torino have contributed to his legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring talents. With multiple Academy Awards for his work as a director and actor, Eastwood continues to leave his mark on the film industry.
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26
Joaquin Phoenix
Gladiator, Signs, Hotel Rwanda
17,233 votes
The enigmatic allure of Joaquin Phoenix sets him apart from other actors in Hollywood. From his heart-wrenching portrayal of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line to his disturbing transformation in Joker, Phoenix consistently delivers captivating performances that showcase his vast acting range. Throughout his career, he has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a recent Academy Award for his role as the Clown Prince of Crime.
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27
Paul Newman
The Sting, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Cars
27,609 votes
One of the most celebrated actors of his time, Paul Newman combined striking good looks with undeniable talent to become a true Hollywood legend. With unforgettable roles in films like Cool Hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and The Sting, Newman's charm and charisma left an indelible mark on cinema history. His impressive body of work has earned him numerous accolades, including an honorary Academy Award recognizing his lifetime achievement in film.
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28
Jeff Bridges
Iron Man, The Big Lebowski, Tron
16,940 votes
Known for his affable charm and laid-back demeanor, Jeff Bridges has been winning over audiences for decades with his versatile acting abilities. From his iconic role as "The Dude" in The Big Lebowski to his heartfelt performance in Crazy Heart, Bridges's knack for creating memorable characters is undeniable. With a career spanning five decades, he has earned numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.
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29
Liam Neeson
The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins, Schindler's List
22,544 votes
With his towering stature and distinctive Irish accent, Liam Neeson has solidified himself as one of the most compelling actors in Hollywood. Known for his roles in films like Schindler's List, Taken, and Love Actually, Neeson's versatility as an actor is evident in his diverse filmography. His powerful presence on-screen continues to captivate audiences and garner critical acclaim.
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30
Christopher Walken
Pulp Fiction, Annie Hall, Batman Returns
21,750 votes
With his unique cadence and haunting on-screen presence, Christopher Walken is an unforgettable figure in the world of cinema. Known for his roles in films like The Deer Hunter, Pulp Fiction, and Catch Me If You Can, Walken's eclectic acting style and flair for portraying eccentric characters have made him a fan favorite. His numerous accolades include an Academy Award for his role in The Deer Hunter.
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