Benicio del Toro has experienced a remarkable year in 2025, starring in films directed by acclaimed filmmakers Anderson. After his lead role in Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme earlier this year, he now appears in Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming release One Battle After Another. As this much-anticipated film nears its release, it is an ideal moment to reflect on the best performances by the Oscar-winning actor throughout his career.
Del Toro’s Role in the New Paul Thomas Anderson Film
In One Battle After Another, del Toro plays the role of Willa’s martial arts instructor, bringing charisma and energy to the supporting cast. His interactions with Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Bob add both humor and intensity to the story. Critics note that del Toro clearly enjoys this role, which builds up to memorable action scenes that heighten the film’s dramatic impact.
“Regina Hall has a solid and somber part as one of the former revolutionaries, while Benicio del Toro is having a lot of fun as Willa’s martial arts instructor. His scenes assisting Bob are very enjoyable, while also building to some actual action set-pieces.” – Film Critic
Critical Praise for the Ensemble Cast
Reviews of One Battle After Another highlight the strong performances of the ensemble cast. Leonardo DiCaprio’s comedic talent stands out as he portrays a perpetually stoned character named Bob. Teyana Taylor and Chase Infiniti deliver powerful performances, with Taylor fueling a revolution in the film’s first act and Infiniti emerging as a breakout star in the final act. Sean Penn’s portrayal of the menacing character Lockjaw draws particular attention for its complex balance of humor, pity, and fear.
“Sean Penn, who hasn’t been this good in some time, plays Lockjaw as funny, pitiful, and scary in equal measure. You hate the vile man, to be sure, but you’re constantly compelled by him, given the way Penn plays him.” – Film Critic
Ranking the Best Performances of Benicio del Toro
Looking back over del Toro’s career, his portrayal in Traffic remains his most acclaimed work and stands at the top of many rankings. His performance earned him an Academy Award and continues to resonate as a powerful and nuanced role. Other notable appearances include his underrated work in Things We Lost in the Fire and his gripping role in Sicario, a film that many feel did not receive the full recognition it deserved despite its genre conventions.
While some viewers might place higher value on his role in The Usual Suspects than this ranking does, there is broad agreement that del Toro has maintained a consistently strong presence across diverse genres. His recent projects, including The Phoenician Scheme and One Battle After Another, illustrate his ongoing versatility and passionate commitment to complex characters.
Complete List of Benicio del Toro’s Top 10 Performances
Here is the ranked list highlighting the best work of Benicio del Toro as of 2025:
10. The Fan – A lesser-known role that shows his range in intense character work.
9. One Battle After Another – His spirited role as a martial arts instructor brings humor and action to this ensemble piece.
8. 21 Grams – A deeply emotional performance that adds depth to the film’s intricate narrative.
7. The Usual Suspects – A memorable role in a critically acclaimed crime thriller.
6. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas – A wild, psychedelic adventure featuring del Toro’s dynamic supporting role.
5. The Phoenician Scheme – A striking lead role in Wes Anderson’s distinctive style of filmmaking.
4. Che – A powerful portrayal of the revolutionary figure Che Guevara in this biographical drama.
3. Sicario – A tense and gripping performance in a crime thriller widely praised for its intensity.
2. Things We Lost in the Fire – An underrated yet emotionally profound role.
1. Traffic – The career-defining, Oscar-winning role that continues to be regarded as del Toro’s best work.
Why These Performances Matter
Benicio del Toro’s career reflects an impressive range, from action and thriller to drama and biographical films. His ability to immerse himself in complex characters has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. With 2025 showcasing some of his strongest recent work alongside legendary directors like Wes Anderson and Paul Thomas Anderson, del Toro remains a compelling figure in contemporary cinema.
As fans anticipate more from him in the coming years, this ranking offers both long-time admirers and new audiences a detailed look at the depth and passion Benicio del Toro brings to the screen.
What are your favorite performances from Benicio del Toro? Let us know!
