Nicolas Cage, an Oscar-winning actor, has experienced a rollercoaster of reactions throughout his career—from praise and applause to mockery and criticism. Yet, he consistently delivers performances infused with heart and soul, often pushing creative boundaries that have led him into the realm of internet memes. However, his vigorous and explosive talent remains undeniable.
Cage's filmography spans acclaimed romantic comedies, soul-crushing dramas, and some of the most iconic action films of the 1990s. His career is so extensive that our "Best Of" list extends to 15 selections, rather than the standard top 10. He has collaborated with acclaimed directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and his own uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most unforgettable performances in cinematic history. For those interested in even more of Cage's standout moments, don't miss the 40 best Nicolas Cage moments compiled by a dedicated Cage superfan who has seen every film he's starred in.
Over his four-decade career, Nicolas Cage has explored virtually every genre. From thwarting a chemical gas attack in San Francisco to embarking on a lethal bender in Las Vegas, and even playing a meta-version of himself in a film about his own career, these are our top picks for Nicolas Cage's greatest movies of all time.
