Nicolas Cage, an Oscar-winning actor, has experienced a rollercoaster of praise, applause, mockery, and criticism throughout his career. Yet, he has consistently poured his heart and soul into every role, showcasing his vigorous and explosive talent. While some of his daring creative choices have landed him in the realm of internet memes, there's no denying the impact of his performances.
Cage's filmography spans acclaimed romantic comedies, soul-crushing dramas, and some of the most iconic action films of the 1990s. His resume is so extensive that we've expanded our "Best Of" list to include 15 films, rather than the usual top 10. He has collaborated with legendary directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and his own uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most memorable performances in cinema history. For fans eager to dive deeper, don't miss the list of the 40 best Nicolas Cage moments compiled by a dedicated superfan who has seen every Nic Cage movie.
Over four decades, Cage has tackled every genre imaginable, from thwarting a chemical gas attack in San Francisco to embarking on a lethal bender in Las Vegas, even playing a version of himself in a meta-adventure about his own career. Here are our picks for Nicolas Cage's best movies ever, highlighting the breadth and depth of his remarkable career.