Liam Neeson best and worst ranked movies span an impressive range of genres and performances across several decades, cementing his reputation as a versatile actor. From his beginnings in Northern Ireland’s theater scene to critical acclaim and mainstream stardom in Hollywood, Neeson has delivered both celebrated and controversial performances, navigating personal tragedy and career highs along the way.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Born in Northern Ireland, Liam Neeson first gained recognition in Irish theater, later transitioning to film with a minor part in the 1981 adaptation of the King Arthur legend, Excalibur. His imposing appearance initially saw him cast in roles that capitalized on his looks, but his dedication eventually garnered more meaningful opportunities. Neeson’s reputation grew further through his notable return to the stage, most importantly his performance in the Broadway revival of Eugene O’Neill’s Anna Christie. This production not only introduced him to Natasha Richardson, his future wife, but also caught the attention of Steven Spielberg, setting up his casting in Schindler’s List.
Diversifying on Stage and Screen
Throughout his filmography, Neeson has tackled a diverse array of roles—from performing in the Star Wars prequel films to playing Oscar Wilde in the Broadway production The Judas Kiss. In the years following personal tragedy, after the untimely death of Natasha Richardson in a skiing accident, Neeson took on numerous film projects, explaining that working became a means of coping with his grief. This period led to his frequent appearance in action and thriller films, a run marked by both box office successes and lukewarm critical responses. Amid this range in project quality, Neeson’s commitment and depth as an actor have continued to earn respect from both audiences and critics.
Liam Neeson’s Top 12 Ranked Films
While not every film in Neeson’s extensive resume is a classic, his body of work encompasses standout performances and unforgettable characters. Presented below is a curated ranking of the twelve most notable films of his career, from his least lauded to his most celebrated.
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12. Silence (2016)
In Martin Scorsese‘s intense drama, Neeson appears as Cristovao Ferreria, a Jesuit priest living in Japan during a period of brutal persecution of Christians. The character witnesses the horrific abuse of converts and faces personal torture, leading to rumors that he abandoned his faith. While Neeson received early buzz for his portrayal and potential Oscar recognition, the film ultimately only secured a nomination for Cinematography. Despite limited recognition from the Academy, his role remains significant for its emotional weight and complexity amidst an already layered cast, which included Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, and Ciaran Hinds.
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11. Michael Collins (1996)
Neeson, born and raised in Northern Ireland, was drawn to play revolutionary Michael Collins, a leader in the struggle to free Ireland from British rule. Directed by Neil Jordan and bolstered by the star power of Julia Roberts, the film was widely anticipated to receive critical acclaim and Academy Awards. Neeson’s performance as Collins earned him a Golden Globe nomination, but despite the star-studded cast and director, the movie garnered only nominations in technical categories such as Cinematography and Original Score. The film remains important in Neeson’s filmography for its personal and historical resonance.
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10. Rob Roy (1995)
In this biographical drama, Neeson plays the determined Scottish clan leader Robert Roy MacGregor, who fights to protect his people from impending starvation. The movie, directed by Michael Caton-Jones, features memorable scenes with Jessica Lange and a lauded villainous turn by Tim Roth, who earned the film’s sole Oscar nomination (Best Supporting Actor). Janet Maslin of The New York Times described Neeson as “a robust presence,” highlighting his commanding portrayal. While reviews were mixed, the project proved a commercial step forward for Neeson just before taking on Michael Collins.
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9. Nell (1994)
Neeson starred as a compassionate town doctor in this emotional drama, directed by Michael Apted. Alongside Jodie Foster, who plays an isolated woman with a unique language, and Natasha Richardson, his wife and fellow doctor on screen, Neeson’s character works to connect with and understand the mysterious Nell. This film stands out as Neeson’s only collaboration with Richardson and explores themes of communication and the boundaries of social norms.
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8. Taken (2008)
Liam Neeson’s star rose dramatically with the success of Taken, where he plays Bryan Mills, a retired CIA agent. Tasked with rescuing his kidnapped daughter, played by Maggie Grace, Mills demonstrates relentless determination and survival skills throughout an intense journey across Europe. Directed by Pierre Morel and written by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen, the film‘s action-driven narrative propelled Neeson into international superstardom, spawning two sequels and redefining his career as a leading figure in the action genre.
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7. Batman Begins (2005)
Stepping into the realm of comic book cinema, Neeson delivers a compelling and unexpected performance as the film’s antagonist in Christopher Nolan’s revitalization of the Batman franchise. Initially introduced as a mentor, Neeson’s character ultimately stands revealed as the primary villain, providing a twist that both director Nolan and fans greeted enthusiastically. Sharing the screen with Christian Bale, Michael Caine, and Katie Holmes, Neeson’s nuanced turn helped set the tone for one of the most influential superhero franchises of recent decades.
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6. Kinsey (2004)
Portraying Alfred Kinsey, a pioneering sexologist, Neeson leads this biographical drama directed by Bill Condon. The film delves into Kinsey’s controversial research and his landmark 1948 publication, which challenged social conventions. Neeson’s deep, empathetic performance earned him nominations for both the Golden Globe and Independent Spirit Award. While his portrayal was widely praised, the Academy recognized co-star Laura Linney with a nomination, underlining the quality of performances driving the film.
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5. Gangs of New York (2002)
Though his time on screen is brief, Neeson’s role as Priest Vallon, leader of the Catholic gang, is crucial in this Martin Scorsese epic. His character’s death becomes the catalyst that sets Leonardo DiCaprio’s character on a path of vengeance, with Daniel Day-Lewis as the chilling adversary Bill the Butcher. The movie, famed for its depiction of 19th-century New York City, is elevated by Neeson’s emotional impact during the pivotal opening sequences. Despite limited screen time, his performance is foundational in shaping the motivations and tone of the entire film.
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4. Husbands and Wives (2002)
Amid notable off-screen controversy during its release, Woody Allen’s Husbands and Wives remains significant for its stark examination of romantic relationships and emotional instability. Neeson’s role as a sensitive magazine writer places him between the volatile interactions of characters played by Mia Farrow and Judy Davis. The film stands out for the emotional turbulence portrayed, with Neeson’s calm and steady presence offering a vital counterbalance to the narrative’s intensity.
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3. The Good Mother (1988)
This overlooked drama features one of Neeson’s earliest major American film roles. As Leo Cutter, a sculptor entangled in the turbulent life of Diane Keaton’s character, Neeson navigates complex themes involving misunderstanding and accusation. A sensitive depiction of a custody battle unfolds after a misinterpreted incident, pitting Neeson and Keaton’s characters against each other in fraught, emotionally charged circumstances. The film, adapted from the novel by Sue Miller, marks a turning point in showcasing Neeson’s dramatic capabilities and depth as an actor.
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2. Love Actually (2003)
In Richard Curtis’s ensemble holiday classic, Neeson brings warmth and humanity to the role of a widower guiding his stepson through the throes of young love and the loss of a parent. With cast members such as Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, and Emma Thompson, Neeson’s part offers both tenderness and humor. The role became even more poignant as Neeson later faced the real-life tragedy of losing his wife Natasha Richardson. “Love Actually” endures as a perennial favorite in pop culture, buoyed by its wide-ranging cast and heartfelt moments.
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1. Schindler’s List (1993)
Liam Neeson’s career-defining performance came in Steven Spielberg’s acclaimed epic, “Schindler’s List.” Taking on the role of Oskar Schindler—a complex, initially self-interested factory owner who undergoes transformation during the Holocaust—Neeson captures a journey from opportunist to courageous savior. The character’s moral evolution unfolds against the horrific events in Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto. Spielberg’s direction and the contributions of screenwriter Steven Zaillian, alongside co-stars Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, and Caroline Goodall, elevate the narrative powerfully. The film swept seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and earned Neeson his first and only nomination for Best Actor to date.
The Enduring Impact of Liam Neeson’s Career
Liam Neeson’s legacy is defined by the breadth and boldness of his choices, a willingness to tackle controversial or emotionally fraught material, and the ability to reinvent himself following personal hardship. Directors like Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and Christopher Nolan have utilized his commanding presence to memorable effect, while his personal tragedies have informed the emotional authenticity he brings to his characters. With roles spanning historical dramas, suspense thrillers, romantic ensembles, and superhero films, Neeson continues to influence audiences and inspire respect within Hollywood and beyond. Looking ahead, his filmography remains a testament to his resilience, talent, and the lasting impact of significant performances on cinema and culture.
