15 Best Brad Pitt Movies of All Time
Brad Pitt is a renowned Hollywood actor who has captivated audiences worldwide with his performances in various movies throughout his illustrious career. Born in 1963, he began acting in the late 1980s, gaining recognition with his roles in “Thelma & Louise” (1991) and “A River Runs Through It” (1992). His filmography includes a diverse range of genres, often showcasing his range and versatility as an actor.
Over the years, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his brilliant performances. Notably, Pitt has earned multiple Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations, securing a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019). Apart from his acting career, Brad Pitt has also dabbled in film production, contributing to the success of several critically acclaimed movies.
15. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
“Interview with the Vampire” is a 1994 American gothic horror film directed by Neil Jordan. It is based on Anne Rice’s 1976 novel of the same name and features a talented cast, including Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. The film delves into the lives of its two main protagonists, Lestat (Cruise) and Louis (Pitt).
Set in 1791, the story revolves around Louis’ transformation into a vampire by Lestat. Louis struggles with his new existence, grappling with the morality and consequences of immortality.
Brad Pitt’s portrayal of Louis showcases a conflicted persona, a grieving aristocrat who becomes a bloodsucking monster. Louis’ story provides an insightful view of the human condition and the struggles of embracing a new identity.
14. Babel (2006)
“Babel” is a 2006 psychological drama film directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and written by Guillermo Arriaga. The film features an ensemble cast, including Brad Pitt, and interweaves four separate stories taking place across Morocco, Japan, Mexico, and the United States.
Brad Pitt plays the role of Richard, an American on vacation with his wife, Susan (Cate Blanchett). A tragic incident in the Moroccan desert sets off a chain of events that impact not only their lives but also those of four different families worldwide.
The multi-narrative structure of Babel allows the film to explore themes such as miscommunication, cultural barriers, and human connections. Brad Pitt’s performance as a concerned and protective husband in a foreign country showcases his ability to excel in dramatic roles.
13. The Tree of Life (2012)
“The Tree of Life” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film directed by Terrence Malick. It stars Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, and Jessica Chastain. The film explores themes of family, life, and the universe, combining elements of drama and science fiction.
In the movie, Brad Pitt plays Mr. O’Brien, a father struggling with his love for his sons, as well as his frustrations with the world around him. His character represents the embodiment of nature.
Jessica Chastain portrays Mrs. O’Brien, the embodiment of grace. She presents the world to her sons as a place of wonder and enchantment. Sean Penn plays Jack, the eldest son, who grapples with reconciling his complicated relationship with his father throughout his life.
12. True Romance (1993)
“True Romance” is a 1993 romantic crime film directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino. The film features an ensemble cast, with Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette taking on the lead roles. Supporting roles include actors Dennis Hopper, Val Kilmer, Gary Oldman, and Christopher Walken.
Brad Pitt plays a small but memorable role in the film as Floyd, a pot-smoking roommate. His character is a laid-back, stumbling burnout that adds an element of humor to the intense crime-driven plot.
The story revolves around a pop culture nerd, who steals cocaine from his new wife’s pimp in Detroit and tries to sell it in Hollywood. This action sets off a chain of events, as the mobsters who own the drugs pursue the couple across the country.
11. Snatch (2000)
“Snatch” is a 2000 British crime-comedy film directed by Guy Ritchie. The movie features an ensemble cast, including Jason Statham, Vinnie Jones, and Brad Pitt. Set in the London criminal underworld, the film contains two intertwined plots: one dealing with the search for a stolen diamond, and the other with a small-time boxing promoter.
Jason Statham plays the role of Turkish, the boxing promoter who finds himself under the thumb of a ruthless gangster named Brick Top, played by Alan Ford. Meanwhile, Brad Pitt portrays Mickey, an Irish Traveller with an unintelligible accent, who becomes entangled in the diamond heist.
10. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
“Ocean’s Eleven” is a 2001 American heist comedy film that features an ensemble cast, including Brad Pitt and George Clooney. The film is directed by Steven Soderbergh and is a remake of the 1960 Rat Pack film with the same name. It is the first installment of the popular Ocean’s film trilogy.
In the movie, Danny Ocean (George Clooney) plans an elaborate heist, targeting a vault linked to three Las Vegas casinos. Brad Pitt plays Rusty Ryan, a key member of Ocean’s team, who helps in executing the elaborate plan. The casinos are owned by Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia) who is also romantically involved with Danny Ocean’s ex-wife, Tess (Julia Roberts).
9. 12 Monkeys (1995)
“12 Monkeys” is a 1995 American science fiction film directed by Terry Gilliam. The movie stars Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt, Joseph Melito, with Christopher Plummer and David Morse in supporting roles. Inspired by Chris Marker’s 1962 short film “La Jetée,” the film explores themes of time travel, mental illness, and the human struggle against an impending apocalypse.
Brad Pitt plays the role of Jeffrey Goines, a disturbed mental patient who may be connected to a mysterious terrorist group called the Army of the 12 Monkeys. Pitt’s performance was highly praised, earning him an Oscar nomination in 1995. Jeffrey’s erratic energy and distinctive mannerisms continue to be a memorable part of the film.
In the film, Bruce Willis stars as James Cole, a convict sent back in time to investigate the origins of a man-made virus that wiped out most of the human population on Earth. Madeleine Stowe portrays Dr. Kathryn Railly, a psychiatrist who assists Cole in his mission and becomes emotionally invested in the outcome. Joseph Melito plays the role of young Cole in poignant flashback scenes.
8. Burn After Reading (2008)
“Burn After Reading” is a 2008 black comedy film directed by the esteemed Coen Brothers. The film boasts a star-studded cast, featuring Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and John Malkovich, among others.
The plot follows a recently jobless CIA analyst, Osbourne Cox (John Malkovich), who loses his memoirs filled with valuable information. These misplaced documents land in the hands of two unsuspecting and dimwitted gym employees, played by Brad Pitt and Frances McDormand.
Brad Pitt’s character, Chad Feldheimer, is a gym trainer who, along with his coworker, believes they can make a profit from the stolen memoirs. While attempting to sell this invaluable information, the duo becomes entangled in a web of misunderstandings and mishaps.
7. The Assassination of Jessie James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
The film stars Brad Pitt as the infamous outlaw Jesse James. Known for his unpredictable nature and being the fastest gun in the west, James plans his next big heist in this epic revisionist western. Directed by Andrew Dominik, the movie is based on Ron Hansen’s 1983 novel of the same name.
The storyline focuses on the relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford, played by Casey Affleck. Ford idolized James since childhood and strives to join his gang. However, Ford’s admiration gradually turns into resentment toward the bandit leader.
6. Se7en (1995)
“Se7en” is a 1995 crime thriller film directed by David Fincher. The movie stars Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, and John C. McGinley. The plot centers around two homicide detectives, played by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, who are on a desperate hunt for a serial killer.
The serial killer, known as “John Doe” and portrayed by Kevin Spacey, justifies his crimes as absolution for the world’s ignorance of the Seven Deadly Sins. The detectives are then led from the tortured remains of one victim to the next, as the sociopathic John Doe sermonizes to Detectives Somerset and Mills.
Detective William Somerset, played by Morgan Freeman, is preparing to retire from the force in an unidentified city plagued by constant rain and urban decay. Before his retirement, he partners with Brad Pitt’s character, Detective David Mills, a young and short-tempered cop hailing from a smaller town of Springfield.
5. Moneyball (2011)
“Moneyball” is a 2011 American biographical sports drama film starring Brad Pitt as the main character. Directed by Bennett Miller, the movie is based on the 2003 nonfiction book Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis.
The film follows the story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane, played by Brad Pitt, and his successful attempt to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget. Beane employs computer-generated analysis to acquire new players, thereby revolutionizing the way teams are built in Major League Baseball.
4. Thelma and Louise (1991)
“Thelma and Louise” is a 1991 adventure road drama film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Callie Khouri. The film features elements of various genres such as drama, adventure, and road movies with touches of romantic comedy.
Brad Pitt plays a minor yet memorable role in the film as J.D., a charming drifter whom the two main characters (played by Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon) meet during their adventure. Pitt’s performance in the film significantly contributed to boosting his acting career.
The plot revolves around Thelma (Davis) and Louise (Sarandon), two best friends who embark on a road trip that quickly turns into a harrowing escape from the police as they flee from the crimes they’ve committed. Through their journey, the duo encounters J.D., portrayed by Pitt, who ends up playing a pivotal role in the story’s development.
3. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
“Inglourious Basterds” is a 2009 film directed and written by Quentin Tarantino. The narrative explores a story set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. It follows a group of Jewish U.S. soldiers and their plans to assassinate prominent Nazi leaders.
Brad Pitt plays a pivotal role as Lieutenant Aldo Raine, nicknamed “The Apache.” He leads the team of Jewish soldiers on their mission to target Nazis. His performance garnered wide acclaim and added a unique touch to Tarantino’s ensemble cast.
2. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is a 2019 film directed by Quentin Tarantino. The movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton, a fading Hollywood actor, and Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth, his stunt double and close friend. Margot Robbie also features in the film, portraying actress Sharon Tate.
Set in 1969, the story follows Dalton and Booth as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood. The duo find themselves entering an era of fading stardom, encountering both fictional and real-life figures in the process.
1. Fight Club (1999)
“Fight Club” is a critically acclaimed film directed by David Fincher and based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Chuck Palahniuk. The movie features a stellar cast, including big names such as Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, and Helena Bonham Carter.
In the film, Edward Norton plays the unnamed narrator, a white-collar worker suffering from insomnia and disillusionment with his life. His path crosses with that of Tyler Durden, portrayed by Brad Pitt, a mysterious figure who introduces him to the world of underground fight clubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top-rated Brad Pitt war films?
Brad Pitt has starred in several war films, including highly acclaimed titles like “Fury” (2014), where he played a tank commander in WWII, and “Inglourious Basterds” (2009), a Quentin Tarantino-directed film set in Nazi-occupied France.
What is the chronological order of Brad Pitt’s filmography?
Brad Pitt’s filmography started with uncredited roles in the late 1980s, followed by his breakout role in “Thelma & Louise” (1991). He went on to star in films such as “A River Runs Through It” (1992), “Legends of the Fall” (1994), and “Fight Club” (1999). His filmography continues to expand into the 2020s.
What was Brad Pitt’s first major breakout movie?
Brad Pitt’s first major breakout movie was “Thelma & Louise” (1991), where he played a charming drifter named J.D.
How many movies has Brad Pitt acted in?
Brad Pitt has appeared in over 85 films, including leading roles, cameos, and voice acting. His diverse career spans over three decades, from the late 1980s until the present day.
What are some noteworthy Brad Pitt movies from his younger years?
During his early career, Brad Pitt appeared in notable films such as “A River Runs Through It” (1992), where he played a charming, rebellious fisherman, and “Legends of the Fall” (1994), in which he portrayed a complex character named Tristan Ludlow.
