Tom Hiddleston discusses his top favorite films, revealing his deep admiration for Michael Mann’s Heat during a recent conversation with Letterboxd, coinciding with the release of his new movie The Life of Chuck. The actor explained why Heat leads his list and shared insights into several other films that have had lasting impacts on him.
Heat: A Standout in Hiddleston’s Collection
At the forefront of Tom Hiddleston’s top selections is Heat, directed by Michael Mann and starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Hiddleston emphasized the craftsmanship involved in the film‘s creation, calling out Mann’s attention to detail, as well as the storied performances from the actors involved.
“The reason I love Heat so much is the detail and precision and care in every aspect of the film making by Michael Mann is exquisite. I love the film. I think it’s it’s complete and it’s only got better with age.”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor
He also observed that Heat captures Michael Mann, Robert De Niro, and Al Pacino at their peak, while he further highlighted Val Kilmer’s contribution:
“maybe the great cinema performance from Val Kilmer.”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor
Hiddleston’s appreciation for the film is longstanding. He previously paid tribute to its memorable scenes, delivering a recreation of the famous restaurant exchange between De Niro and Pacino’s characters during a guest appearance on The Graham Norton Show.
Other Noteworthy Picks from Hiddleston
Tom Hiddleston’s favorite films list also features Paolo Sorrentino’s The Great Beauty (La grande bellezza), Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen’s Singin’ in the Rain, and Frank Darabont’s The Shawshank Redemption. His choice reflects a range of classics recognized for both filmmaking mastery and emotional depth.
The Great Beauty: Sorrentino’s Cinematic Wisdom
Praising Paolo Sorrentino’s direction in The Great Beauty, Hiddleston called the film incredibly dynamic. He admired the central performance, stating,
“It has an extraordinary performance at the centre of it”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor. Sorrentino was described as a director held in immense esteem, with Hiddleston specifically commending the film’s opening sequence and the wisdom it conveys.
Singin’ in the Rain: Timeless Artistry on Screen
For Singin’ in the Rain, Hiddleston chose the 1952 classic for its enduring magic and joyful spirit. He expressed awe at the filmmaking achievements, stating,
“When the world is run by machines, the machines will look back and wonder ‘how on earth they made Singin’ in The Rain’. It is so pure, honest and open-hearted.”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor
Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen’s work was singled out, as Hiddleston noted the unforgettable nature of musical moments such as ‘Good Morning, Good Morning’, ‘Make ‘Em Laugh’, and the iconic scene of Kelly singing in the rain, which he described as “eternal footage” that endures through time.
The Shawshank Redemption: A Moving Reflection on Hope
Turning to Frank Darabont’s The Shawshank Redemption, Hiddleston outlined his own personal inspiration from the film. He remarked,
“It made a big dent in my heart and soul when I was young; it continued to do that,”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor, signifying the long-term effect the Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman starrer had on him. Drawing attention to the film’s depth, he referred to it as a
“meditation on friendship and the freedom of the human spirit”
—Tom Hiddleston, Actor, and shared his admiration for the lead performances.
Continuing Influence and Next Steps
Tom Hiddleston’s thoughtful curation of these films, from Michael Mann’s Heat and his praise for Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Val Kilmer, to works by Paolo Sorrentino, Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen, Frank Darabont, Tim Robbins, and Morgan Freeman, showcases his commitment to cinema and its influence on his career and life. As he stars in The Life of Chuck — an adaptation of a Stephen King story — Hiddleston’s ongoing engagement with film history and collaboration with celebrated creators signals a dedication to projects he finds artistically and emotionally powerful.
