1. Forrest Gump 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.8, Votes: 2283495, ID: 0109830 Photo by meneame.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Forrest Gump is a unique blend of comedy and drama, with Tom Hanks delivering a captivating performance as the titular character. The film’s narrative, which spans several decades and significant historical events, is both engaging and thought-provoking. However, some critics argue that the film’s framing device and conclusion are its weakest points.
2. Saving Private Ryan 1944-1998 2010，IMDB Rating: 0.0, Votes: 0, ID: 2396438 Photo by newsfilter.gr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Saving Private Ryan is a gripping and emotionally charged war film. Its depiction of the D-Day landing is considered one of the most realistic portrayals of war on film. However, some critics argue that the film’s courtroom drama elements detract from its overall impact.
3. Cast Away 2000，IMDB Rating: 7.8, Votes: 645167, ID: 0162222 Photo by nonciclopedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Cast Away is a survival drama that showcases Tom Hanks’ ability to carry a film almost single-handedly. His performance as a man stranded on an uninhabited island is both powerful and moving. However, some critics argue that the film’s opening and closing sequences detract from the overall story.
4. Philadelphia 1993，IMDB Rating: 7.7, Votes: 259911, ID: 0107818 Photo by rich-insight.tistory.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Philadelphia is a landmark film that tackles the sensitive topic of AIDS with dignity and respect. Tom Hanks delivers a powerful performance as a lawyer who is fired from his firm due to his illness. Despite its importance, some critics argue that the film’s courtroom drama elements are its weakest points.
5. The Green Mile 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.6, Votes: 1422437, ID: 0120689 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Green Mile, a film that explores the depths of human empathy and the supernatural, is a testament to Tom Hanks’ ability to portray a character with profound depth. His portrayal of Paul Edgecomb, a compassionate prison guard on Death Row, is both moving and memorable. The film’s exploration of themes such as redemption and forgiveness, coupled with Hanks’ compelling performance, makes it a standout in his filmography.
6. Big 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.3, Votes: 242422, ID: 0094737 Photo by Wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Big is a delightful film that showcases Hanks’ versatility as an actor. His portrayal of a 12-year-old boy trapped in an adult’s body is both hilarious and touching. The film’s exploration of the innocence of childhood and the complexities of adulthood is enhanced by Hanks’ heartfelt performance. His ability to capture the nuances of his character’s unique predicament makes Big a must-watch.
7. Apollo 13 1995，IMDB Rating: 7.7, Votes: 318273, ID: 0112384 Photo by draco.pe.kr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Apollo 13 is a gripping depiction of a real-life space crisis, with Hanks delivering a powerful performance as astronaut Jim Lovell. The film’s tension and drama are heightened by Hanks’ portrayal of Lovell’s courage and determination. His performance, coupled with the film’s meticulous attention to detail, makes Apollo 13 a cinematic triumph.
8. Sleepless in Seattle 1993，IMDB Rating: 6.8, Votes: 192418, ID: 0108160 Photo by Flickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Sleepless in Seattle is a charming romantic comedy that showcases Hanks’ ability to captivate audiences with his on-screen charisma. His portrayal of Sam Baldwin, a widower who finds love in an unexpected place, is both endearing and relatable. The film’s blend of humor, romance, and poignant storytelling, enhanced by Hanks’ performance, makes it a classic.
9. You’ve Got Mail 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.7, Votes: 231383, ID: 0128853 Photo by satyanash.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 You’ve Got Mail is a delightful romantic comedy that highlights Hanks’ charm and chemistry with co-star Meg Ryan. His portrayal of Joe Fox, a bookstore chain owner who falls in love with a rival bookstore owner online, is both engaging and heartwarming. The film’s exploration of love in the digital age, coupled with Hanks’ charismatic performance, makes it a memorable watch.
10. A League of Their Own 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.3, Votes: 122426, ID: 0104694 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A League of Their Own is a delightful blend of comedy and drama, capturing the spirit of an era where women’s baseball took center stage. The film showcases Tom Hanks’ versatility as an actor, playing a gruff, washed-up coach who finds redemption in leading a team of spirited women. It’s a testament to the resilience of women during a challenging time in history.
11. The Terminal 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.4, Votes: 499533, ID: 0362227 Photo by fenyo86.blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Terminal is a heartwarming tale of resilience and human spirit. Tom Hanks delivers a captivating performance as Viktor Navorski, a man trapped in an airport due to a political coup in his home country. His portrayal of Navorski’s unwavering optimism and kindness in the face of adversity is both inspiring and touching.
12. Captain Phillips 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.8, Votes: 496028, ID: 1535109 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Captain Phillips is a gripping thriller that showcases Tom Hanks’ exceptional acting prowess. His portrayal of the titular character, a ship captain navigating a perilous situation with Somali pirates, is both intense and emotionally resonant. The film is a testament to Hanks’ ability to portray real-life heroes with authenticity and depth.
13. Sully 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, Votes: 300797, ID: 3263904 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Sully is a compelling drama that highlights Tom Hanks’ ability to bring real-life heroes to the big screen. His portrayal of Chesley ‘Sully’ Sullenberger, the pilot who performed the Miracle on the Hudson, is both nuanced and powerful. The film is a tribute to professionalism and calm under pressure, qualities that Hanks embodies in his performance.
14. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood 2019，IMDB Rating: 7.2, Votes: 89619, ID: 3224458 Photo by deepestdream.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is a touching tribute to the beloved TV personality, Fred Rogers. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Mr. Rogers is both authentic and endearing, capturing the essence of the man who touched the lives of millions of children. The film is a testament to Hanks’ ability to embody the spirit of his characters.
15. The Da Vinci Code 2006，IMDB Rating: 6.6, Votes: 461951, ID: 0382625 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Da Vinci Code’, Tom Hanks delivers a captivating performance as Robert Langdon, a Harvard symbologist caught in a web of religious intrigue and ancient secrets. Despite some criticisms, the film is described as preposterously entertaining, with Hanks’ performance standing out amidst the complex narrative.
16. Catch Me If You Can 2002，IMDB Rating: 8.1, Votes: 1109902, ID: 0264464 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Tom Hanks shines as FBI agent Carl Hanratty in ‘Catch Me If You Can’, a thrilling chase of deception and cunning. The film is a testament to Hanks’ versatility, effortlessly portraying a determined lawman on the trail of a master con artist. It’s a riveting cat-and-mouse game that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
17. Road to Perdition 2002，IMDB Rating: 7.7, Votes: 286333, ID: 0257044 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘Road to Perdition’, Hanks delivers a powerful performance as Michael Sullivan, a mob enforcer seeking vengeance. The film is a visually stunning exploration of father-son relationships set against the backdrop of the Depression-era Midwest. Hanks’ portrayal of a man torn between duty and family is both poignant and compelling.
18. Cloud Atlas 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.4, Votes: 375957, ID: 1371111 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In the ambitious and visionary ‘Cloud Atlas’, Hanks takes on multiple roles, showcasing his range and versatility. The film weaves together narratives from different times and places into a tapestry of actions and consequences. Hanks’ performances are central to this complex narrative, contributing to a film that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning.
18 Must-Watch Tom Hanks Films: Exploring His Most Captivating Performances
