Gerard Butler has earned a diverse acting career, known not only for his roles as a tough action star but also for his memorable performances in animated features and dramas. Fans ranking Gerard Butler top movies on Letterboxd reveal a wide range of his work, reflecting the variety in his roles throughout the years.
10. The White House Siege Thriller That Surprised Audiences
Released in 2013, “Olympus Has Fallen” features Gerard Butler as Mike Banning, a disgraced Secret Service agent tasked with rescuing the President after North Korean insurgents take over the White House. Despite the premise sounding far-fetched, the film’s grounded tone and Butler’s credible performance kept the tension real. Though critics were divided, over time it has become recognized as an underrated cult favorite by many fans.
9. A Tender Role in a Romantic Drama
In 2007’s “P.S. I Love You,” Butler showcased a softer side by playing a terminally ill husband writing letters to help his grieving wife move forward. Based on Cecelia Ahern’s novel and directed by Richard LaGravenese, the film mixes romance with heartfelt drama. While not a traditional romantic comedy, it developed a loyal fanbase despite lukewarm critical reception.
8. A Gritty Heist Film Offering More Depth Than Expected
“Den of Thieves” (2018) allowed Butler to shine once again as an LA detective caught up in stopping a group of ex-Marines planning to rob the Federal Reserve. Written and directed by Christian Gudegast, this crime thriller brought a classic heist vibe with grounded storytelling. Many viewers appreciated its solid pacing and Butler’s intense portrayal of “Big Nick” O’Brien, elevating it beyond typical action fare.
7. Complex Themes in a Revenge-Driven Vigilante Story
In the 2009 thriller “Law Abiding Citizen,” Butler played a man seeking personal justice after his family’s murder, criticizing a corrupt legal system alongside co-star Jamie Foxx. Directed by F. Gary Gray and co-produced by Butler, the film blurred lines between hero and villain, with audiences left unsure whom to root for. Butler’s chilling performance brought depth to the morally ambiguous character.
6. The Iconic Spartan King Who Became a Cultural Phenomenon
Gerard Butler became best known for shouting, “This is Sparta!” as King Leonidas in 2006’s visually striking “300,” directed by Zack Snyder. Adapted from Frank Miller’s graphic novel, the movie combined stylized combat with mythic storytelling. Butler’s commanding screen presence anchored the film, which quickly embedded itself into pop culture through numerous parodies and references.
5. Portraying a Mysterious Musical Genius in a Classic Adaptation
2004’s “The Phantom of the Opera,” adapted from Gaston Leroux’s novel, cast Butler as the enigmatic, disfigured musical genius living beneath the Paris Opera House. This film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical combined tragedy and romance, with Butler’s performance praised for bringing emotional weight to the character. It remains one of his most memorable drama roles.
4. The Final Chapter in a Beloved Animated Dragon Saga
“How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World”
(2019) closes the trilogy with a more mature tone as Hiccup searches for a legendary refuge for dragons. Butler reprised his voice role as Stoick the Vast, the father of Hiccup, though with less screen time than in prior films. Despite a slightly lower ranking than earlier installments, it proved a fitting and emotional capstone to the series beloved by fans worldwide.
3. A Powerful Sequel That Deepens the Dragon-Taming Tale
Many consider 2014’s
“How to Train Your Dragon 2”
the strongest installment, showing a darker, more emotional side to the story. Butler returned as Stoick, delivering another impactful voice performance. The film expands on themes of family and leadership while balancing heartfelt moments with thrilling action. Its emotional depth has made it a favorite for audiences of all ages, often evoking tears with its moving storytelling.
2. A Live-Action Take on an Animated Favorite
When news broke about a live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon,” fans were cautious about its potential. Released in 2025, the film features Butler once more as Stoick, this time in a live-action portrayal. Though it doesn’t surpass the original animated classic, many viewers found it a solid and enjoyable experience, celebrating Butler’s continued dedication to this iconic role.
1. The Beloved Original That Captured Hearts
Topping the fan rankings, the 2010 animated “How to Train Your Dragon” remains Butler’s standout work. Based on Crissida Cowell’s book, it tells the story of Hiccup, a young Viking who befriends and trains a rare Night Fury dragon named Toothless instead of slaying it. Butler’s warm portrayal of Stoick added gravitas to this heartfelt, humorous tale that appealed to both children and adults. The film’s success launched one of the best animated trilogies, with its compelling characters and enchanting story helping cement Butler’s legacy.
With his career spanning diverse genres from high-octane action to touching animated adventures, Gerard Butler’s top movies demonstrate his range and appeal. The overwhelming fan love for the “How to Train Your Dragon” series highlights a unique chapter in his career, one that continues to resonate across generations. As Butler revisits beloved roles in new formats, fans eagerly await where his versatile career will take him next.
