The Best Gary Oldman Movies

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Updated April 23, 2024 43.0K views 66 items
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Vote for your favorite Gary Oldman movies, regardless of critic reviews or how big the role was.

With more than 1,000 movie fans casting votes, this list of the best Gary Oldman movies is an authoritative guide to his greatest performances. Spanning nearly four decades of work in Hollywood, Gary Oldman has earned a reputation as one of the finest performers of his generation. His remarkable range and versatility have made him one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood today.

From historical epics like Bram Stoker's Dracula to psychological thrillers like The Dark Knight, Oldman puts on brilliant displays in every genre imaginable. He has also taken home countless awards for his roles over the years, including an Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in 2018's Darkest Hour.

Whether you're looking for a classic crime drama or an intense action flick, there's something here for everyone. Take a look at our list and vote up your favorite Gary Oldman films.

Most divisive: Red Riding Hood
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Gary Oldman Movies
  • Léon: The Professional
    1
    Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, Natalie Portman
    448 votes
    Mathilda (Natalie Portman) is only 12 years old, but is already familiar with the dark side of life: her abusive father stores drugs for corrupt police officers, and her mother neglects her. Léon (Jean Reno), who lives down the hall, tends to his houseplants and works as a hired hitman for mobster Tony (Danny Aiello). When her family is murdered by crooked DEA agent Stansfield (Gary Oldman), Mathilda joins forces with a reluctant Léon to learn his deadly trade and avenge her family's deaths.
  • Bram Stoker's Dracula
    2
    Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins
    389 votes
    Bram Stoker's Dracula is a chilling journey into the heart of darkness, masterfully directed by Francis Ford Coppola. The tale unfolds with Count Dracula (Gary Oldman), an ageless vampire haunted by a tragic love story. He leaves his castle in Transylvania and ventures to Victorian England, lured by a photograph of Mina Murray (Winona Ryder), who bears an uncanny resemblance to his long-lost beloved. In this grim world, Professor Abraham Van Helsing (Anthony Hopkins) emerges as a beacon of light. A scholar with profound knowledge about vampires, he becomes the chief adversary to the Count's unholy plans. The movie cascades through a series of hauntingly beautiful scenes that paint a vivid picture of love, loss, and horror. Winner of three Academy Awards, this Gothic horror film reinterprets Bram Stoker's classic novel, offering viewers an intricate tapestry of passion and terror. It stands as a testament to Coppola's cinematic genius and the enduring allure of the Dracula legend.
  • The Dark Knight
    3
    Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart
    379 votes
    In The Dark Knight, Gotham City's vigilante, Batman (Christian Bale), faces his greatest adversary yet - the Joker (Heath Ledger), a criminal mastermind with a twisted sense of humor. Under the guidance of mentor Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman) and ally Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman), Batman navigates a web of chaos spun by the Joker. The Christopher Nolan directed crime drama won two Academy Awards, including one for Ledger's posthumous performance. Brimming with high-stakes action scenes and moral dilemmas, this second installment in Nolan's Batman trilogy is a captivating exploration of heroism in times of anarchy.
  • The Fifth Element
    4
    Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm
    365 votes
    In The Fifth Element, a science fiction spectacle directed by Luc Besson, former special forces soldier Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis) finds himself in the middle of a cosmic struggle. He's entrusted with protecting Leeloo (Milla Jovovich), the fifth element and humanity's last hope against a looming evil. The pair, aided by flamboyant radio host Ruby Rhod (Chris Tucker), embark on a thrilling race against time. Their quest? To gather four elemental stones and prevent the annihilation of life as we know it. Set in a strikingly imagined 23rd century, this film is an action-packed rollercoaster ride with a touch of comedy.
  • Sid and Nancy
    5
    Courtney Love, Gary Oldman, Kathy Burke
    199 votes
    Sid and Nancy is a 1986 British biopic directed by Alex Cox. The film portrays the life of Sid Vicious, and his relationship with girlfriend Nancy Spungen. Despite failing to recoup its production budget at the box office, the film was received favourably by most critics and has attained cult classic status.
  • Darkest Hour
    6
    Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Ben Mendelsohn
    158 votes
    The fate of Western Europe hangs on Winston Churchill in the early days of World War II. The newly appointed British prime minister must decide whether to negotiate with Hitler or fight on against incredible odds. During the next four weeks in 1940, Churchill cements his legacy as his courageous decisions and leadership help change the course of world history.
  • True Romance
    7
    Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Dennis Hopper
    281 votes
    In the offbeat crime film True Romance, Clarence Worley (Christian Slater), a comic book store clerk, falls for a call girl named Alabama Whitman (Patricia Arquette). Their whirlwind romance takes a dangerous turn when Clarence confronts and murders Alabama's pimp. Suddenly, they find themselves on the run with a suitcase of cocaine that belongs to the Mob. The duo's desperate bid for freedom leads them from Detroit to Hollywood, pursued by ruthless gangsters and corrupt cops. Directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino, this 1993 movie weaves an unpredictable tale of love and violence against the backdrop of America's underbelly.
  • Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
    8
    Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
    330 votes
    In the third installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) finds himself in danger from Sirius Black (Gary Oldman), an escaped convict believed to be one of Lord Voldemort's old allies. The movie, directed by Alfonso Cuaron, takes a darker turn than its predecessors. Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) return as Harry's loyal friends, navigating the treacherous grounds of Hogwarts School. Aided by Professor Lupin (David Thewlis), they unravel secrets about Harry's past while tackling creatures like Dementors and Werewolves. This film won a BAFTA for Best Production Design in 2004.
  • JFK
    9
    Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
    211 votes
    In Oliver Stone's political thriller, JFK, the spotlight shines on New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison (Kevin Costner). He is drawn into a complex web of conspiracy theories surrounding the 1963 assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy. The film, a fascinating blend of fact and speculation, features a star-studded cast including names like Tommy Lee Jones as Clay Shaw and Gary Oldman in the role of Lee Harvey Oswald. Snagging eight Academy Award nominations, it stands as an intriguing exploration of this notorious historical event.
  • Batman Begins
    10
    Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson
    262 votes
    In Batman Begins, we follow the journey of Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale), a billionaire playboy tormented by his past. After years of training with his mentor, Henri Ducard (Liam Neeson), in the League of Shadows, he returns to Gotham City, determined to eradicate crime and corruption. The emergence of the sinister Scarecrow (Cillian Murphy) challenges him to embrace his newfound persona - Batman. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this film offers a gritty reboot of the iconic superhero franchise, delving deep into Batman's origins and his struggle against Gotham's underbelly. It triumphed at the 2006 Academy Awards for Best Cinematography.
  • Immortal Beloved
    11
    Gary Oldman, Jeroen Krabbé, Isabella Rossellini
    197 votes
    This biography chronicles the life of infamous classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven (Gary Oldman) and his painful struggle with hearing loss. Following Beethoven's death in 1827, his assistant, Schindler (Jeroen Krabbé), searches for an elusive woman referred to in the composer's love letters as "immortal beloved." As Schindler solves the mystery, a series of flashbacks reveals Beethoven's transformation from passionate young man to troubled musical genius.
  • The Dark Knight Rises
    12
    Christian Bale, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy
    244 votes
    In The Dark Knight Rises, the final installment of Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy, we witness an older, broken Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) emerge from seclusion to protect Gotham City. The city is now under threat from Bane (Tom Hardy), a ruthless terrorist with a mysterious past. As the tale unfolds, a cunning cat burglar named Selina Kyle (Anne Hathaway) enters the fray. Meanwhile, Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman) grapples with the city's corruption. Genre-wise, it's an action-packed superhero film that won numerous awards for its visual effects and sound editing.
  • Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
    13
    Gary Oldman, Kathy Burke, Benedict Cumberbatch
    225 votes
    Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, a gripping espionage thriller, is set within the shadowy corridors of British Intelligence during the Cold War. It revolves around the stoic and shrewd George Smiley (Gary Oldman), brought out of his forced retirement to root out a Soviet mole lurking in their ranks. The film, winning acclaim for its meticulous plot and taut screenplay, also stars Colin Firth as Bill Haydon and Tom Hardy as Ricki Tarr. With a narrative that weaves suspicion and secrets together, it's a chilling examination of loyalty, betrayal, and the quiet intensity of spy craft.
  • Air Force One
    14
    Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, Glenn Close
    219 votes
    Air Force One, a thrilling action-drama film, centers on President James Marshall (Harrison Ford), a leader committed to the war against terrorism. Onboard the presidential aircraft, Air Force One, after an international peacekeeping event, things take a dark turn. Russian extremists, led by Ivan Korshunov (Gary Oldman), hijack the flight, holding the president and his family hostage. The stakes are high as this isn't just any passenger - it's the President of the United States. Trapped aboard his own aircraft, President Marshall must rely on his courage and wits to reclaim control, protect his family, and save everyone onboard. The movie is noted for its intense action sequences and compelling performances from its lead actors.
  • Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
    15
    Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
    221 votes
    In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) grapples with his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, under the watchful gaze of a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton). As Voldemort's (Ralph Fiennes) power grows, Harry forms a clandestine group, Dumbledore's Army, to train his fellow students for the looming war. The film, part of a globally acclaimed series, expertly balances fantasy and drama, interweaving elements of friendship and rebellion. With its complex plot and compelling performances, it remains an integral chapter in the Harry Potter saga.
  • Hannibal
    16
    Anthony Hopkins, Julianne Moore, Gary Oldman
    180 votes
    In the chilling sequel to The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal reintroduces us to the infamous Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). Now residing in Italy, Lecter's tranquil life is disrupted when his past comes knocking. FBI agent Clarice Starling (Julianne Moore), who previously sought his assistance in capturing a serial killer, re-enters his life under dire circumstances. The movie weaves a dark tale as it explores the twisted relationship between Lecter and Starling, against a backdrop of suspense and horror. Directed by Ridley Scott, this thriller won high praise for its unexpected plot twists and unsettling themes.
  • State of Grace
    17
    Sean Penn, Ed Harris, Gary Oldman
    173 votes
    Gone for a decade, Terry Noonan (Sean Penn) is welcomed back into the fold in his Irish-American neighborhood in New York City. A one-time street tough, Terry is now an undercover officer targeting crime boss Frankie Flannery (Ed Harris). In the name of duty, Terry rekindles his dormant friendship with Frankie's younger brother, Jackie (Gary Oldman). But as Terry gets closer to his goal, his feelings for the youngest Flannery, his old flame Kathleen (Robin Wright), complicate his mission.
  • Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
    18
    Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
    188 votes
    In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) enters his fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry under the headship of Albus Dumbledore (Michael Gambon). This year, Hogwarts hosts the Triwizard Tournament, a magical contest between three wizarding schools. Unexpectedly, Harry's name is drawn from the Goblet of Fire as an additional participant, plunging him into a deadly game. He battles dragons, dives underwater to rescue friends, and navigates a perilous maze. Meanwhile, the return of Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) marks a dark turn for the wizarding world. The film won a BAFTA award for Best Production Design in 2006.
  • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2
    19
    Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
    174 votes
    In the epic finale of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011), Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) faces his destiny as he squares off against Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes). This fantasy film is directed by David Yates, offering breath-taking visuals and gripping storytelling. The plot sees Harry, Hermione (Emma Watson), and Ron (Rupert Grint) on a desperate hunt for Horcruxes - objects containing pieces of Voldemort's soul. In their quest, secrets unravel, alliances shift, and sacrifices are made. This movie won numerous awards, including the BAFTA for Special Visual Effects.
  • The Book of Eli
    20
    Denzel Washington, Gary Oldman, Mila Kunis
    180 votes
    In the post-apocalyptic thriller The Book of Eli, Denzel Washington stars as Eli, a solitary wanderer in a desolate, scorched landscape. His life revolves around a mysterious book he carries - the last of its kind. Gary Oldman plays Carnegie, an obsessive despot who covets Eli's book for his own nefarious purposes. The film is an intriguing blend of action and drama, punctuated by clashes between Eli's faith-driven mission and Carnegie's ruthless ambition. A unique exploration of morality amid chaos, The Book of Eli offers an engrossing narrative set against the stark backdrop of humanity's aftermath. It's survivalism meets spirituality, underpinned by standout performances from Washington and Oldman.
  • Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead
    21
    Gary Oldman, Tim Roth, Richard Dreyfuss
    134 votes
    This film is a 1990 comedy-drama film written and directed by Tom Stoppard based on his play of the same name. Like the play, the film depicts two minor characters from William Shakespeare's play Hamlet, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who find themselves on the road to Elsinore Castle at the behest of the King of Denmark. They encounter a band of players before arriving to find that they are needed to try to discern what troubles the prince Hamlet. Meanwhile, they ponder the meaning of their existence.
  • Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
    22
    Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman
    76 votes
    In Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, a post-apocalyptic world is ruled by genetically evolved apes, led by Caesar (Andy Serkis). The fragile peace with surviving humans, reeling from a devastating virus, hangs in the balance. As tensions rise, both sides teeter on the brink of war. In this gripping sequel, director Matt Reeves explores themes of survival, conflict, and loyalty. Notably, it received an Academy Award nomination for its groundbreaking visual effects. A captivating blend of science fiction and drama, it's a tale of two civilizations grappling for coexistence.
  • Murder in the First
    23

    Murder in the First

    Christian Slater, Kevin Bacon, Gary Oldman
    107 votes
    Henry, a small-time criminal sent to Alcatraz, is caught attempting to escape and as punishment, he's put in solitary confinement. Instead of staying the maximum nineteen days, he is kept alone, in the cold and complete darkness for years, only to emerge a madman and a murderer. It's a rookie lawyer who proves Alcatraz is to blame, and that Henry should not be executed.
  • Romeo Is Bleeding
    24
    Gary Oldman, Lena Olin, Annabella Sciorra
    87 votes
    Jack Grimaldi (Gary Oldman) is a cop who offers tips to the Mafia for money, and cheats on his loving wife with a young mistress. His life changes when an Italian mob boss, Don Falcone (Roy Scheider), asks him to kill Mona Demarkov (Lena Olin), a Russian assassin. But Mona escapes from Jack's grasp at every opportunity, leaving him to face dire consequences, dragging him into a lethal game of cat and mouse and manipulating him into carrying out otherwise unimaginable acts.
  • The Contender
    25
    Joan Allen, Gary Oldman, Jeff Bridges
    100 votes
    When the sitting Vice President dies, Senator Laine Hanson is chosen by the President to be the first woman to hold the office. The selection meets with opposition from members of both parties, in particular a powerful political adversary who will seemingly stop at nothing to discredit her. Her confirmation hearings set off a firestorm of controversy as shocking secrets from Hanson's past are revealed, threatening her personal life as well as her political future.
  • Prick Up Your Ears
    26
    Gary Oldman, Alfred Molina, Vanessa Redgrave
    88 votes
    The life and tragic death of British playwright Joe Orton (Gary Oldman) is chronicled in this biographical film. When the young, attractive Orton meets the older, more introverted Kenneth Halliwell (Alfred Molina) at drama school, he befriends the kindred spirit and they start an affair. As Orton becomes more comfortable with his sexuality and starts to find success with his writing, Halliwell becomes increasingly alienated and jealous, ultimately tapping into a dangerous rage.
  • The Scarlet Letter
    27
    Demi Moore, Gary Oldman, Robert Duvall
    151 votes
    The Scarlet Letter is a 1995 American film adaptation of the Nathaniel Hawthorne novel of the same name. It was directed by Roland Joffé and stars Demi Moore, Gary Oldman, and Robert Duvall. This version was "freely adapted" from Hawthorne and deviated from the original story. It was nominated for seven Golden Raspberry Awards at the 1995 ceremony, winning "Worst Remake or Sequel."
  • Kung Fu Panda 2
    28
    Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman
    109 votes
    Now known as the Dragon Warrior, Po (Jack Black) protects the Valley of Peace alongside his friends and fellow kung fu masters, the Furious Five. However, a dangerous villain threatens Po's awesome new life with plans to use a secret weapon to wipe out the martial art and conquer China. In order to defeat the new enemy, Po finds he must recall his past and unlock secrets of his mysterious origins; only then will he find the strength to vanquish his foe.
  • A Christmas Carol
    29
    Jim Carrey, Robin Wright, Gary Oldman
    111 votes
    In A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge (Jim Carrey) is a miserly old man who despises the festive season. One Christmas Eve, he receives a visit from three spirits - the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. These spectral visitors guide Scrooge through his own life, showing him the errors of his ways and what might befall him if he doesn't change. This animated retelling of Charles Dickens's classic tale is a fusion of drama and fantasy, with stunning visual effects that earned it an Academy Award nomination for Best Art Direction.
  • Lawless
    30
    Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jason Clarke
    98 votes
    In 1931, the Bondurant brothers of Franklin County, Va., run a multipurpose backwoods establishment that hides their true business, bootlegging. Middle brother Forrest (Tom Hardy) is the brain of the operation; older Howard (Jason Clarke) is the brawn, and younger Jack (Shia LaBeouf), the lookout. Though the local police have taken bribes and left the brothers alone, a violent war erupts when a sadistic lawman (Guy Pearce) from Chicago arrives and tries to shut down the Bondurants operation.