Pierce Brosnan has captivated audiences for over 30 years, from his iconic role as James Bond in GoldenEye to his recent work in Chris Columbus’ The Thursday Murder Club. Known for his versatility, Brosnan’s career spans various genres, yet many of his films remain overlooked. This article highlights the top underrated Pierce Brosnan movies that deserve more recognition.
10. The Matador (2005): An Unexpected Dark Comedy
The Matador is a unique blend of buddy comedy and dark humor, directed by Emmy winner Richard Shepard. The story centers on a lonely hitman who befriends a traveling salesman after an unlikely meeting in a Mexico City hotel bar. Brosnan’s surprising comedic timing shines alongside Greg Kinnear, proving his range extends beyond dramatic roles. Despite critical praise, this film did not receive the attention it merits and stands out as one of Brosnan’s hidden gems.
9. Spinning Man (2018): A Twisting Mystery
Based on George Harrar’s novel and directed by Simon Kaijser, Spinning Man tells the story of Evan Birch, a respected college professor suspected of foul play when a student disappears. Brosnan plays Detective Malloy, whose relentless investigation unveils disturbing secrets. Although the film was met with harsh reviews and a poor box office showing, its intricate plot and suspenseful twists offer a gripping watch that maintains viewers’ interest throughout.
8. The Ghost Writer (2010): A Political Thriller with Quiet Depth
In The Ghost Writer, Brosnan portrays Adam Lang, a former British Prime Minister whose memoirs are being written by a ghostwriter amid brewing political scandals. Directed by Roman Polanski, the movie combines steady performances with high-stakes intrigue. Despite receiving praise for its intense atmosphere and strong acting, the film saw a very limited theatrical release and remains one of Brosnan’s most underappreciated projects.
7. The Foreigner (2017): A Riveting Revenge Thriller
Jackie Chan stars as Quan, a businessman seeking revenge after his daughter falls victim to a terrorist attack, while Brosnan plays Liam Hennessy, a government official caught in the ensuing conflict. The Foreigner blends martial arts with taut crime drama, delivering a fast-paced and emotionally powerful narrative. Though somewhat formulaic, the strong performances and sharp plot twists make it one of Chan’s modern highlights and a notable film in Brosnan’s catalog.
6. Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020): Comedy and Heart in Difficult Times
During a time when the world sought comfort, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga offered humor and uplifting moments. Brosnan makes a memorable appearance in this Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams-led comedy about two Icelandic musicians chasing their dream. The film’s playful tone, catchy songs, and heartfelt moments earned it a devoted audience despite mixed critical reviews, marking it as a fun yet underrated entry in Brosnan’s filmography.
5. No Escape (2015): High-Stakes Action Thriller
No Escape follows Jack and Annie Dwyer, played by Owen Wilson and Lake Bell, as they find themselves trapped in a violent coup while relocating to Asia. Brosnan portrays a powerful antagonist, heightening the tension in this non-stop action film. Though it never sought awards, the movie excels as an intense thriller that maintains a relentless pace, offering an engaging experience for fans of Brosnan’s more adrenaline-fueled roles.
4. Fast Charlie (2023): A Stylish Crime Revenge Drama
In Fast Charlie, Brosnan stars as a seasoned hitman who seeks vengeance after his mob boss and crew are targeted. Alongside Morena Baccarin and the late James Caan in his last film role, this crime caper blends slick direction with sharp performances. Brosnan’s charisma and blend of menace with charm draw from his Bond legacy, making this film a standout that only recently gained traction through streaming platforms.
3. Black Bag (2025): A Spy Thriller with Psychological Depth
Directed by Steven Soderbergh, Black Bag centers on intelligence agents George and Kathryn, portrayed by Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett, whose marriage is tested amid suspicions of betrayal. Brosnan contributes to this tense political thriller mixing marital drama with espionage. The film earned critical acclaim but underperformed commercially, suggesting it will likely gain a cult following over time due to its compelling narrative and nuanced performances.
2. Evelyn (2002): A Poignant Family Drama
Set in 1950s Dublin and directed by Bruce Beresford, Evelyn tells the story of Desmond, played by Brosnan, a struggling father fighting to reunite with his children after abandonment by their mother. This emotional drama touches on themes of hardship and resilience, and highlights Brosnan’s dramatic depth far beyond his usual action or thriller roles. Initially met with skepticism, the film now stands as one of his most affecting performances.
1. The Tailor of Panama (2001): A Sharp Spy Thriller
The Tailor of Panama brings together a stellar cast, including Brosnan, Jamie Lee Curtis, Geoffrey Rush, and Brendan Gleeson. The story revolves around a former British spy who arrives in Panama and forms a dangerous alliance with a tailor connected to the criminal underground. Directed by John Boorman, this film received critical praise for its sharp writing and engaging plot, yet audiences responded less favorably at the time. With its wit, suspense, and Brosnan’s charismatic lead role, the movie remains a standout gem.
Pierce Brosnan’s diverse filmography contains many such underappreciated works that reveal different facets of his talent beyond his most famous roles. These underrated Pierce Brosnan movies showcase his range, whether through comedy, drama, thrillers, or action, offering compelling stories that may soon receive wider recognition. With several of these films gaining new life on streaming platforms and through growing fan appreciation, viewers have the opportunity to rediscover some of Brosnan’s finest yet overlooked performances.
