The 50+ Best Tom Hanks Movies, Ranked
- 1Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
Forrest Gump, a timeless cinematic treasure directed by Robert Zemeckis, features the inimitable Tom Hanks as the titular character whose unassuming nature and wit take him on an extraordinary journey through American history. Hanks' masterful performance earned him his second consecutive Academy Award for Best Actor, while the film itself garnered six Oscars, including Best Picture. Beyond its commercial success and critical acclaim, Forrest Gump continues to resonate with audiences worldwide due to its compelling blend of humor, drama, and powerful storytelling that transcends generations.
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- #5 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #103 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 2Tom Hanks, Edward Burns, Tom Sizemore
Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks as Captain John Miller, Saving Private Ryan is a harrowing depiction of World War II's D-Day invasion and its aftermath. The film's visceral portrayal of warfare combined with Hanks' gripping performance creates an intense viewing experience that showcases both the horrors of battle and the humanity of soldiers fighting for their lives. Its unforgettable opening sequence has been hailed as one of cinema's most realistic representations of combat, cementing Saving Private Ryan as a seminal war film that remains relevant in today's world.
- 3Tom Hanks, David Morse, Michael Clarke Duncan
Based on Stephen King's novel and directed by Frank Darabont, The Green Mile offers a poignant look at life on death row through the eyes of prison guard Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks). Hanks delivers a heart-wrenching performance alongside Michael Clarke Duncan's Oscar-nominated role as John Coffey, an innocent man with supernatural abilities facing execution. The emotional depth found within this dark tale highlights not only injustice but also redemption and forgiveness - themes that continue to inspire viewers long after the credits roll.
More The Green Mile- #29 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #15 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #25 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
- 4Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon
Ron Howard's Apollo 13 tells the thrilling true story of NASA’s ill-fated lunar mission in 1970. Starring Tom Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, this riveting adaptation skillfully explores teamwork and resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Hanks' commanding presence and dynamic chemistry with fellow actors Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, and Gary Sinise elevate this remarkable tale of human ingenuity to new heights, making Apollo 13 a captivating viewing experience that resonates with audiences young and old.
More Apollo 13- Dig Deeper...Things 'Apollo 13' Got Totally Wrong
- #19 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
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- 5Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles
As the first feature-length film from Pixar Animation Studios, Toy Story revolutionized computer animation while also introducing us to Woody (Tom Hanks), an endearing toy cowboy who learns the true meaning of friendship when he meets Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). The timeless story, unforgettable characters, and innovative animation make Toy Story a standout entry in Tom Hanks' impressive filmography. With its heartwarming message about loyalty and acceptance, this beloved classic continues to entertain generations of moviegoers worldwide.
More Toy Story - 6Tom Hanks, Helen Hunt, Nick Searcy
In Robert Zemeckis' Cast Away, Tom Hanks delivers a tour de force performance as Chuck Noland, a man stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. The gripping survival drama showcases Hanks' unparalleled ability to captivate viewers as he single-handedly carries much of the film with minimal dialogue or supporting characters. This powerful exploration of isolation and resilience earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and solidifies Cast Away as one of his most memorable roles.
More Cast Away- Dig Deeper...Behind-The-Scenes Stories That Will Change The Way You Watch 'Cast Away'
- #153 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #99 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
- 7Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia
Big is a charming comedy directed by Penny Marshall that explores what happens when 12-year-old Josh Baskin (David Moscow) makes a wish to be "big" and wakes up the next day as a 30-year-old man (Tom Hanks). With his childlike innocence intact, Hanks delivers a delightful performance that captures both the wonderment and challenges that come with adulthood in this heartwarming fantasy that has enchanted viewers since its release in 1988.
More Big- Dig Deeper...Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'Big,' Tom Hanks's First Blockbuster Hit
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- #30 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- 8Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna
Penny Marshall's A League of Their Own is a vibrant period piece that celebrates the groundbreaking All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which was formed during World War II. Tom Hanks stars as Jimmy Dugan, the gruff but lovable manager of the Rockford Peaches, who leads a team of trailblazing women to victory both on and off the field. With an ensemble cast including Geena Davis, Madonna, and Lori Petty, this inspiring sports drama showcases Hanks' comedic chops while also exploring themes of sisterhood and perseverance.
- 9Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken
Steven Spielberg's Catch Me If You Can tells the thrilling true story of Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio), a teenage con artist who successfully poses as various professionals while being pursued by FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks). This stylish caper film highlights Hanks' versatility as he brings depth to his determined character in a cat-and-mouse game filled with twists and turns. The engaging performances from DiCaprio and Hanks make Catch Me If You Can an entertaining escapade through the glamorous world of 1960s America.
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- #204 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 10Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
In this highly anticipated sequel to Pixar's groundbreaking hit, Tom Hanks returns as Woody in Toy Story 2, once again exploring themes of loyalty and friendship. When Woody is stolen by a toy collector, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of their toy friends set out on an epic rescue mission that delves into Woody's past while also introducing new characters like Jessie (Joan Cusack) and Stinky Pete (Kelsey Grammer). With its clever humor and poignant storytelling, Toy Story 2 continues the legacy set forth by its predecessor while further solidifying Hanks' role as an animated icon.
More Toy Story 2- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Toy Story' Characters In The Whole Series, Ranked
- #15 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #128 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 11Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Jason Robards
Jonathan Demme's Philadelphia marked a turning point in Hollywood history as one of the first major films to tackle the topic of AIDS head-on. Tom Hanks stars as Andrew Beckett, a successful lawyer who is fired from his firm when they discover he has the disease. The emotionally charged courtroom drama earned Hanks his first Academy Award for Best Actor and showcased his ability to portray complex characters with dignity and grace.
More Philadelphia- #18 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #100 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #52 of 126 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- 12Tom Hanks, Aaron Eckhart, Valerie Mahaffey
Directed by Clint Eastwood, Sully tells the incredible true story of pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger (Tom Hanks), who successfully landed a damaged passenger jet on New York City's Hudson River in 2009, saving all 155 people onboard. Hanks' calm under pressure performance in this gripping biographical drama emphasizes not only the heroism of one man but also the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity.
More Sully- #57 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
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- 13Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
The emotional final installment in Pixar's beloved trilogy finds Woody and his friends facing an uncertain future as their owner Andy prepares to leave for college. As they navigate life at a day-care center, Tom Hanks once again brings depth and heart to Woody's character, proving that loyalty and friendship can withstand even the most trying circumstances. With its powerful message about love, loss, and new beginnings, Toy Story 3 serves as a fitting conclusion to one of cinema's most iconic animated series.
More Toy Story 3- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Toy Story' Characters In The Whole Series, Ranked
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- #246 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 14Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Bill Pullman
This romantic classic directed by Nora Ephron pairs Tom Hanks with Meg Ryan as two strangers brought together by fate - and an unforgettable late-night radio call-in show. As widower Sam Baldwin, Hanks effortlessly conveys both the heartache of loss and the hope of new beginnings in this enchanting love story that remains a favorite among fans of the genre.
More Sleepless in Seattle- #112 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
- #408 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #152 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- 15Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener, Barkhad Abdi
Based on the true story of the 2009 Maersk Alabama hijacking by Somali pirates, Paul Greengrass' Captain Phillips offers an intense look at modern-day piracy through the eyes of its titular character, played by Tom Hanks. As Captain Richard Phillips navigates both physical danger and psychological warfare during the tense standoff with his captors, Hanks delivers a commanding performance that highlights bravery and resourcefulness amidst chaos.
More Captain Phillips- #172 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
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- #15 of 35 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- 16Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Parker Posey
In their third onscreen pairing, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan once again prove they are a match made in movie heaven with Nora Ephron's delightful romantic comedy, You've Got Mail. As rival bookstore owners who unknowingly fall for each other online, Hanks and Ryan are charmingly endearing, and their undeniable chemistry is at the heart of this timeless tale about finding love in unexpected places.
More You've Got Mail- #424 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #22 of 35 onGreat Movies That Take Place In Autumn
- #25 of 134 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- 17Tom Hanks, Mare Winningham, Craig T. Nelson
Turner & Hooch is an entertaining buddy-cop film that showcases Tom Hanks' comedic talent as he shares the screen with an adorable yet destructive French Mastiff named Hooch. As detective Scott Turner, Hanks navigates a murder investigation while attempting to control his canine partner's antics in this lighthearted romp filled with laughter and heart.
More Turner & Hooch- #102 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- 18Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Alan Alda
Steven Spielberg directs this Cold War drama starring Tom Hanks as James B. Donovan, an insurance lawyer tasked with negotiating the release of a captured American U-2 pilot from Soviet authorities in exchange for a convicted Soviet spy held by the U.S. The tension-filled narrative provides ample opportunity for Hanks to display his prowess as an actor able to effectively convey his character's moral compass amidst political intrigue.
More Bridge of Spies- #18 of 35 onEvery Steven Spielberg Movie, Ranked By Fans
- #77 of 165 onThe Best Political Films Of All Time
- #45 of 73 onThe Greatest Movies About CIA Agents & Operatives
- 19Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, Jude Law
Sam Mendes' visually stunning crime drama takes place during the Great Depression and centers around hitman Michael Sullivan (Tom Hanks), who seeks revenge on those responsible for his family's murder while protecting his surviving son. With its evocative cinematography and powerful performances from an all-star cast, including Paul Newman and Daniel Craig, Road to Perdition highlights Tom Hanks' versatility as an actor capable of tackling darker, more complex roles.
More Road to Perdition- #57 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
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- 20Tom Hanks, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stanley Tucci
In Steven Spielberg's lighthearted drama, Tom Hanks stars as Viktor Navorski, an Eastern European traveler who becomes stranded at New York City's JFK Airport after his passport is rendered invalid due to a political power shift in his home country. As he navigates life within the confines of the airport terminal, Hanks delivers a charming and heartwarming performance that showcases his ability to connect with audiences through humor and pathos.
More The Terminal- #673 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #19 of 35 onEvery Steven Spielberg Movie, Ranked By Fans
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- 21Tom Hanks, Daryl Hannah, John Candy
In this whimsical romantic comedy from director Ron Howard, Tom Hanks plays Allen Bauer, a young man who falls in love with a mermaid named Madison (Daryl Hannah). Through his endearing portrayal of an everyday man captivated by the fantastical world beneath the waves, Hanks captures the magic and wonder of this unconventional love story while also establishing himself as one of Hollywood's most versatile leading men.
More Splash- #101 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- #65 of 233 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 22Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen
Based on Dan Brown's best-selling novel, The Da Vinci Code follows symbologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) as he uncovers a conspiracy involving secret religious societies and hidden codes within famous works of art. Directed by Ron Howard and featuring an international cast including Audrey Tautou and Sir Ian McKellen, this thrilling mystery-adventure film showcases Hanks' talent for playing intelligent characters embroiled in high-stakes situations.
More The Da Vinci Code- #427 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #126 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
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- 23Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Paul Giamatti
In John Lee Hancock's heartfelt biographical drama, Tom Hanks takes on the role of Walt Disney himself during his tumultuous collaboration with author P.L. Travers (Emma Thompson) on the beloved classic Mary Poppins. With warmth and charm to spare, Hanks embodies Disney's visionary spirit while navigating the challenges presented by Travers' uncompromising demands - resulting in a captivating behind-the-scenes look at one of cinema's most enduring family films.
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- #15 of 106 onGreat Movies That Take Place In The '60s
- 24Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Nona Gaye
Robert Zemeckis reunites with Tom Hanks in this visually stunning animated adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's beloved children's book. Featuring groundbreaking motion-capture technology, The Polar Express follows a young boy on a magical train ride to the North Pole, where he learns the true meaning of Christmas. Voicing multiple characters - including the conductor and Santa Claus himself - Hanks demonstrates his versatility as an actor while bringing this enchanting holiday tale to life.
More The Polar Express- #317 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #109 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #15 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- 25Tom Hanks, Shelley Long, Alexander Godunov
In this uproarious comedy from director Richard Benjamin, Tom Hanks stars as Walter Fielding Jr., who unwittingly purchases a dilapidated mansion that quickly becomes a seemingly endless source of comedic disasters. With impeccable timing and physical comedy skills, Hanks delivers laugh-out-loud moments throughout this classic 1980s film that showcases his innate ability to entertain audiences with humor and heart.
More The Money Pit- #149 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #596 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #476 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 26Tom Hanks, Matthew Rhys, Susan Kelechi Watson
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is a touching tribute to television icon Fred Rogers and the impact he made on countless lives through his long-running PBS series, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. Directed by Marielle Heller, the film stars Tom Hanks as Fred Rogers alongside Matthew Rhys as journalist Lloyd Vogel, whose real-life friendship with Rogers inspires him to embrace empathy and kindness in all aspects of his own life. Through his uncanny portrayal of Mr. Rogers, Hanks conveys the gentle wisdom and quiet strength that made this beloved figure such an enduring inspiration for generations.
- 27Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech
In addition to starring in this charming musical dramedy set during the 1960s pop music scene, Tom Hanks also makes his directorial debut with That Thing You Do! As record-label executive Mr. White, Hanks shepherds an up-and-coming band called The Wonders through their rapid rise to fame - capturing both the excitement and challenges inherent in pursuing one's dreams. With a catchy soundtrack and memorable performances from its ensemble cast, That Thing You Do! is an engaging look at the rollercoaster ride of stardom.
More That Thing You Do!- #216 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
- #354 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #224 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- 28Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt
Tom Hanks lends his distinctive voice to Woody Car in Pixar's animated automotive adventure Cars, directed by John Lasseter and Joe Ranft. As part of an all-star voice cast, Hanks contributes his unique blend of humor and warmth to this visually stunning film that explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and the importance of slowing down to appreciate life's journey.
More Cars- #54 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #12 of 27 onAll Pixar Films, Ranked Best To Worst
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- 29Tom Hanks, Bruce Dern, Carrie Fisher
In this offbeat comedy directed by Joe Dante, Tom Hanks stars as Ray Peterson, a suburbanite who becomes increasingly paranoid about his peculiar new neighbors and their possible nefarious activities. Showcasing his knack for physical comedy and comic timing, Hanks delivers a hilarious performance that elevates The 'Burbs into a quirky cult classic with enduring appeal.
More The 'Burbs- #123 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #526 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #297 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 30Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Ayelet Zurer
Following up on the international success of The Da Vinci Code, Ron Howard directs Tom Hanks once again as symbologist Robert Langdon in Angels & Demons - another thrilling mystery-adventure based on Dan Brown's popular novel series. In this installment, Langdon is called upon to decipher ancient symbols hidden within Vatican City while racing against time to prevent a devastating terrorist attack - providing ample opportunity for Hanks to showcase both his intellectual prowess and action-hero capabilities.
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