Tom Cruise is one of Hollywood’s most enduring and bankable stars, known for his versatility and dedication to his craft. With a career spanning over three decades, Cruise has delivered a string of memorable performances in a variety of genres. Here’s a look at some of his best films that showcase his talent and charisma, along with the awards he’s won for these performances.

Top 11 movies of Tom Cruise

1. Top Gun (1986)

No list of Tom Cruise’s best films would be complete without mentioning “Top Gun.” This iconic film catapulted Cruise to stardom, thanks to his portrayal of the hotshot fighter pilot, Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. The high-flying action sequences, romantic subplot, and unforgettable soundtrack make “Top Gun” a quintessential 80s classic that still resonates with audiences today.

Awards:

• People’s Choice Award for Favorite Motion Picture

2. Rain Man (1988)

In “Rain Man,” Tom Cruise plays Charlie Babbitt, a selfish yuppie who discovers his estranged brother Raymond (Dustin Hoffman) is an autistic savant. The film showcases Cruise’s ability to handle dramatic roles and earned Hoffman an Academy Award for Best Actor. Cruise’s nuanced performance complements Hoffman’s and helps deliver a touching story about brotherhood and personal growth.

Awards:

• Kansas City Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actor

3. Born on the Fourth of July (1989)

Tom Cruise received his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in Oliver Stone’s “Born on the Fourth of July.” He plays Ron Kovic, a Vietnam War veteran who becomes an anti-war activist. The film is a powerful exploration of patriotism, trauma, and the human spirit, with Tom Cruise delivering one of the most compelling performances of his career.

Awards:

• Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama
• Chicago Film Critics Association Award for Best Actor

4. A Few Good Men (1992)

“A Few Good Men” features one of Cruise’s most famous scenes, where he faces off against Jack Nicholson in a courtroom drama. As Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, Cruise delivers a strong performance in this intense and gripping film about military ethics and justice. The film’s famous line, “You can’t handle the truth!” remains a standout moment in cinematic history.

Awards:

• None for Cruise specifically.

5. Jerry Maguire (1996)

In this romantic comedy-drama,Tom Cruise plays sports agent Jerry Maguire, who has a crisis of conscience and sets out to build his own agency. The film earned Tom Cruise’s his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. “Jerry Maguire” is filled with memorable quotes and heartfelt moments, showcasing Cruise’s ability to blend charm and depth in his performances.

Awards:

• Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy
• Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role

6. Mission: Impossible Series (1996-Present)

Tom Cruise is synonymous with the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, portraying IMF agent Ethan Hunt across several films. Known for performing his own stunts, Cruise brings a unique intensity and physicality to the role. Each film in the series has been a box office hit, with thrilling action sequences and intricate plots that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Awards:

• Empire Award for Best Actor (for “Mission: Impossible 2”)
• Saturn Award for Best Actor (for “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol”)

7. Magnolia (1999)

In Paul Thomas Anderson’s ensemble drama “Magnolia,” Cruise delivers a standout performance as Frank T.J. Mackey, a self-help guru with a dark past. His role earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film is a complex and emotional tapestry of interconnected stories, and Tom Cruise’s powerful portrayal is one of its highlights.

Awards:

• Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture
• Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role

8. Minority Report (2002)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, “Minority Report” is a science fiction thriller set in a future where crimes can be predicted and prevented before they occur. Cruise plays John Anderton, a PreCrime officer who finds himself accused of a future murder. The film is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of free will and justice, with Cruise delivering a gripping performance.

Awards:

• Saturn Award for Best Actor

9. The Last Samurai (2003)

In “The Last Samurai,” Cruise portrays Nathan Algren, a disillusioned American soldier who finds redemption and honor among samurai warriors in Japan. The film is a visually beautiful and emotionally resonant epic, with Cruise delivering a deeply committed performance.

Awards:

• None specifically for Cruise.

10. Collateral (2004)

Cruise takes on the role of a villain in Michael Mann’s “Collateral,” playing Vincent, a cold-blooded hitman who takes a cab driver (Jamie Foxx) hostage during a night of assassinations. Cruise’s portrayal of Vincent is chilling and intense, demonstrating his range as an actor and his ability to excel in darker roles.

Awards:

• None specifically for Cruise.

11. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

“Edge of Tomorrow” is a sci-fi action film where Cruise plays Major William Cage, who is caught in a time loop, reliving the same day in a battle against alien invaders. The film combines thrilling action with a clever narrative structure, and Cruise’s performance is both dynamic and engaging, making it one of his best in recent years.

Awards:

• Saturn Award for Best Actor

Conclusion

Tom Cruise’s filmography is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal as an actor. From action-packed blockbusters to thought-provoking dramas, Cruise has consistently delivered performances that captivate and entertain audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, these films are essential viewing for anyone interested in the career of one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.