Liam Neeson has built an extraordinary career with roles spanning multiple celebrated franchises, showcasing his range as a film star. This comprehensive Liam Neeson top movies list highlights 25 of his most significant films, capturing his journey from dramatic performances to action-packed blockbusters, culminating with his newest role in ‘The Naked Gun‘ premiering August 1st.
A Wide-Ranging Career Across Famous Film Series
Neeson has become a fixture in major cinematic universes, including parts in ‘Star Wars‘, ‘The Dark Knight’ Trilogy, ‘The Chronicles of Narnia‘, ‘Men in Black‘, and ‘Clash of the Titans‘, while also headlining his own renowned action franchise, ‘Taken’. His versatility crosses genres from fantasy to thriller and comedy. Adding to his growing list of franchise appearances, Neeson stars as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. in the upcoming ‘The Naked Gun‘ reboot, signaling his continued presence on the big screen.
25. Liam Neeson’s Role in ‘A Million Ways to Die in the West’ (2014)
This dark comedy features Neeson as a notorious gunslinger whose arrival challenges a timid farmer courting a mysterious woman. The film’s blend of humor and Western trope subversion underscores Neeson’s ability to engage audiences even in lighthearted settings, making it a notable entry in his filmography.
24. Tackling a Hidden Threat in ‘Men in Black: International’ (2019)
In this installment of the long-running sci-fi comedy series, Neeson plays a key figure as the Men in Black deal with their greatest internal threat: a mole undermining their organization. The film expands the franchise’s universe, combining alien antics with espionage elements.
23. Mythical Battles in ‘Clash of the Titans’ (2010)
As Zeus, Neeson embodies the godly element in a tale where Perseus must defy fate and his mortal upbringing to confront the underworld’s wrath. The movie weaves ancient myth into a modern action spectacle, highlighting Neeson’s commanding presence as a deity navigating gods and humans.
22. Crime and Suspense in ‘The Dead Pool’ (1988)
In Clint Eastwood’s final portrayal of Dirty Harry Callahan, Neeson features alongside in a gritty narrative where the famous detective confronts a deadly game predicting celebrity deaths. The film blends tense crime drama with high-stakes investigation, emphasizing Neeson’s early entry into thrilling roles.
21. Royalty and Warfare in ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ (2005)
Neeson takes on a pivotal role amid the Crusades’ chaos as political intrigue unfolds around a blacksmith-turned-knight navigating the violent struggle for Jerusalem. The film merges historical drama with epic battle scenes, illustrating Neeson’s range beyond modern stories into sweeping period pieces.
20. Unraveling Conspiracy on ‘The Commuter’ (2018)
Here, Neeson plays a businessman unexpectedly ensnared in a criminal plot during his daily train ride. The tension escalates as he races against time to protect innocent lives, reinforcing his reputation as a lead in gripping, fast-paced thrillers.
19. Investigating Dark Mysteries in ‘A Walk Among the Tombstones’ (2014)
As private investigator Matthew Scudder, Neeson delves into a tragic kidnapping case entangled with the criminal underworld. The film’s moody atmosphere and layered narrative showcase Neeson’s skill at portraying complex, world-weary characters.
18. Personal Vendetta in ‘Taken 2’ (2012)
Following the success of the first film, Neeson’s Bryan Mills must confront deadly repercussions when his family is targeted in Istanbul. The sequel maintains the intense action and emotional stakes central to the series’ appeal.
17. Choosing Between Crime and Family in ‘Run All Night’ (2015)
Playing a mobster torn between past sins and paternal devotion, Neeson leads a gritty nighttime battle where loyalties clash. His portrayal carries the film’s conflicted tone of desperation and redemption, delving deep into emotional turmoil.
16. Comedy Return in ‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’ (2013)
In this humor-filled sequel, Neeson appears alongside Will Ferrell’s iconic Ron Burgundy as the news team expands into 24-hour broadcasting. This role highlights his lighter side amidst a predominantly comedic environment.
15. High-Altitude Terror in ‘Non-Stop’ (2014)
Neeson stars as a Federal Air Marshal facing a life-threatening hijacking mid-flight. The suspenseful narrative ramps up as he works against time to prevent catastrophe, adding another intense thriller to his filmography.
14. Justice on Edge in ‘Taken 3’ (2015)
In the final chapter of the trilogy, Mills is falsely accused and must clear his name while pursuing the real killer. The film focuses on relentless action paired with emotional resolve.
13. Power Struggles in ‘Gangs of New York’ (2002)
Set in 1860s New York, this historical drama intertwines revenge and immigrant struggles. Although Leonardo DiCaprio leads, Neeson’s presence supports the brutal and chaotic world of gang warfare and political upheaval.
12. Fantasy Epic: ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ (2005)
Neeson voices the great lion Aslan in this magical tale where children fight to save Narnia from eternal winter. The film exemplifies his contribution to fantasy storytelling and his role in family-oriented epics.
11. Survival Against Nature in ‘The Grey’ (2012)
After a plane crash in the Arctic, Neeson leads the survivors battling brutal weather and wolves. The story’s stark portrayal of man versus nature reflects on raw survival instincts amid hopeless circumstances.
10. Teamwork on the Run in ‘The A-Team’ (2010)
Neeson plays Col. Hannibal Smith, leading a team of skilled operatives framed for crime. Together, they use their expertise to clear their names. The film blends action with camaraderie and tactical prowess.
9. The Force Awakens Early in ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ (1999)
Portraying a key figure in the Jedi council, Neeson appears during the saga’s beginning as the Jedi confront the rising Sith menace, grounding his role in the franchise’s expansive mythology.
8. Legendary Tales in ‘Excalibur’ (1981)
Neeson’s role in this adaptation of Arthurian legend reflects the mythic themes of kingship, magic, and destiny. The film captures the mystical origins of the legendary sword and the epic journey of King Arthur.
7. Animated Adventure in ‘The Lego Movie’ (2014)
Though not a lead role, Neeson contributes voicework in this inventive animated story of an ordinary Lego figure’s rise to heroism, creatively combining humor and heart.
6. A Masked Crusader in ‘Darkman’ (1990)
Playing Dr. Peyton Westlake, Neeson takes on a darker role as a man seeking revenge after a disfiguring injury, becoming the vigilante Darkman. The film blends superhero and thriller elements with a brooding tone.
5. Leading the Charge in ‘The Naked Gun’ (2025)
Neeson stars as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., stepping into a comedic action role to lead Police Squad and save the day. This reboot promises to blend legacy with fresh energy, featuring a supporting cast including Paul Walter Hauser and Pamela Anderson.
“The law’s reach never stretched this far.” —The Naked Gun promotional tagline
4. Origin of a Hero in ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)
Neeson plays a crucial mentor role in this reboot of Batman’s origin story, guiding Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne as he transforms into Gotham’s dark protector. The film focuses on fighting systemic corruption and the birth of a symbol.
3. Interwoven Romances in ‘Love Actually’ (2003)
Set just before Christmas, the film follows multiple couples navigating love’s complexities across London. Neeson’s performance adds depth within a heartfelt ensemble cast that balances humor and emotion.
2. Courage and Compassion in ‘Schindler’s List’ (1994)
Neeson delivers a career-defining role as Oskar Schindler, the industrialist who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust. The film’s powerful narrative is underscored by the enduring message:
“Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.” —Schindler’s List
1. Relentless Pursuit in ‘Taken’ (2009)
Neeson’s breakthrough as Bryan Mills, a former operative whose daughter is abducted in Paris, established him as an action star. The role’s blend of emotional drive and physical prowess captivates audiences, making it his most iconic performance.
“They took his daughter. He’ll take their lives.” —Taken
The Lasting Influence of Liam Neeson’s Film Legacy
This carefully curated list illustrates Liam Neeson’s evolution across a spectrum of film roles, from historical dramas and fantasy epics to intense thrillers and comedy. With ‘The Naked Gun‘ joining his impressive catalog, Neeson continues to captivate audiences, blending his experience with new creative ventures. As his career advances, this top movies list stands as a testament to his enduring impact on global cinema and the continued anticipation for his future projects.
