A Hollywood Powerhouse
Gene Hackman had unlimited range. He was the rugged lawman, the terrifying villain, the wise mentor, and the charming conman—sometimes all at once. But which of his films truly stand the test of time?
44. Eureka (1983)
In an unconventional and philosophical drama, Hackman is a man who strikes it rich and then faces the psychological and existential consequences of his wealth. The film blends family drama and surrealist elements in one of the more unusual choices in his filmography.
Eureka (1983) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD] by HD Retro Trailers
43. Extreme Measures (1996)
Does the end justify the means? In this medical thriller, Hackman is Dr Lawrence Myrick, a physician conducting controversial experiments in pursuit of medical breakthroughs. Opposite Hugh Grant, Hackman's performance raises moral questions. Despite the suspenseful pacing, Extreme Measures didn't break box office records.
42. Misunderstood (1984)
This heartfelt drama explores a strained father-son relationship. Hackman is a grieving father trying to connect with his young son after the death of his wife. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Hackman's performance is a touching portrayal of a man struggling with loss and fatherhood.
Legend Gene Hackman | Misunderstood 1984 Full Movie by Manouever Prince
41. Split Decisions (1988)
When a boxer faces his own decisions, his brother and father step in. Hackman plays a father trying to keep his son on the right path in a world of corruption. The film follows familiar underdog sports movie beats, but Hackman's performance adds emotional weight.
Split Decisions (1988), 35mm film transfer test (141 seconds) by 35mm Movie Trailers Scans
40. Under Suspicion (2000)
Built on mind games, Under Suspicion stars Hackman as a wealthy attorney who becomes the prime suspect in a brutal murder case. Opposite Morgan Freeman, Hackman's performance keeps audiences guessing about his character's guilt or innocence. The film thrives on tension, with Hackman's ability to shift between confidence and desperation.
Under Suspicion (2000) Trailer | Morgan Freeman | Gene Hackman by Film Trailer Channel
39. Class Action (1991)
Would a father stand against his own daughter? This movie puts Hackman against Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio in a father-daughter courtroom battle over corporate wrongdoing. As a veteran civil rights lawyer, Hackman's intensity makes the courtroom clashes feel authentic and emotionally charged.
Class Action (1991) | Scene: Jed's daughter by Wincy Studio
38. Heartbreakers (2001)
In Heartbreakers, Hackman plays William B Tensy, an aging, chain-smoking billionaire targeted by two con artists. His performance is delightfully over-the-top, embracing the film's comedic absurdity. This isn't a role that defines his legacy, but it showcases his ability to pivot between genres effortlessly.
HEARTBREAKERS (2001) | The Gift Scene | MGM by Amazon MGM Studios
37. Behind Enemy Lines (2001)
As an admiral overseeing a daring rescue mission, Behind Enemy Lines features Hackman with Owen Wilson in a war thriller that sheds light on the Bosnian War. Despite not being a standout in his filmography, the movie was a box-office success.
Behind Enemy Lines (2/5) Movie CLIP - New Extraction Point (2001) HD by Movieclips
36. Target (1985)
What happens when a man is forced to reveal his past? Target pairs Hackman with Matt Dillon as a father and son caught up in international intrigue. When his wife is kidnapped, Hackman goes on a mission to uncover secrets in a thriller that mixes family drama with action.
Target (1985) Trailer | Gene Hackman | Matt Dillon by Film Trailer Channel
35. Twilight (1998)
A neo-noir mystery with an all-star cast, Twilight finds Hackman in a supporting role as a fading Hollywood star with a murky past. The film, which pairs him with Paul Newman and Susan Sarandon, doesn't quite leave a lasting impact. Still, Hackman brings depth to his morally ambiguous character.
Official Trailer - TWILIGHT (1998, Paul Newman, Susan Sarandon, Gene Hackman) by Trailer World
34. Absolute Power (1997)
In this Clint Eastwood-directed thriller, Hackman is the corrupt President of the United States, a role that allows him to manipulate authority with ease. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Hackman's portrayal of a morally bankrupt leader adds an extra layer of tension.
33. The Package (1989)
A tense political thriller with Cold War paranoia at its core, The Package sees Hackman as a military officer caught in an assassination plot. The film is a solid yet underrated entry in his career, with a mix of action and intrigue that keeps things engaging.
The Package Official Trailer #1 - Gene Hackman Movie (1989) HD by Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers
32. Runaway Jury (2003)
Runaway Jury features Hackman as a ruthless jury consultant who will stop at nothing to control the outcome of a high-stakes court case. Opposite John Cusack, Dustin Hoffman, and Rachel Weisz, Hackman gives out cold villainy to make Fitch one of the most menacing figures in legal thriller history.
Runaway Jury (2003) - Dustin Hoffman and Gene Hackman by Ian Rosen
31. Narrow Margin (1990)
Set almost entirely on a moving train, Narrow Margin stars Hackman as a district attorney protecting a key witness from assassins. The confined setting heightens the suspense, and Hackman's performance adds credibility to the high-stakes chase. His commanding presence ensures it remains a gripping ride.
Narrow Margin (1990) Trailer | Gene Hackman | Anne Archer by Film Trailer Channel
30. Twice In A Lifetime (1985)
In Twice in a Lifetime, Hackman delivers a deeply emotional performance as a man experiencing a late-life crisis when he leaves his wife for a younger woman. The film focuses on love and regret by offering Hackman a more sentimental role.
Gene Hackman & Ann-Margret (Twice in a Lifetime) 1985 by Janet Jonez
29. Under Fire (1983)
War dramas helped bring out the best in Gene Hackman's range. Under Fire is set during the Nicaraguan revolution with Nick Nolte and Joanna Cassidy in a tense, politically charged thriller. He plays a seasoned journalist exploring the blurred lines of truth and propaganda in conflict zones.
Gene Hackman & Nick Nolte - Under Fire (1983) HD by Movie Passion
28. Uncommon Valor (1983)
How far would a father go to rescue his son? In Uncommon Valor, Hackman leads a mission to rescue American POWs left behind in Vietnam, bringing his signature intensity to the role of a determined, battle-hardened leader. Despite mixed reviews, it was a box-office success.
Uncommon Valor (7/10) Movie CLIP - This Parting Was Well Made (1983) HD by Movieclips
27. Reds (1981)
Warren Beatty's sweeping historical epic Reds features Hackman in a brief but pivotal role as journalist Pete Van Wherry. The film, which chronicles the life of American communist John Reed, is known for its grand storytelling and strong performances. Although Hackman's screen time is limited, his role adds credibility.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
26. The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
One of the most iconic disaster films of all time, The Poseidon Adventure features Hackman in a rare action-hero role as Reverend Frank Scott, a determined priest who takes charge when a cruise ship capsizes. The film succeeded at the box office and remains a staple of the genre.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
25. Night Moves (1975)
This movie wasn't a big box-office hit, but it became more popular with home media releases. It's a moody neo-noir that casts Hackman as a private investigator who becomes entangled in a convoluted case that leads to far darker revelations. It simmers with slow-burning tension and moral ambiguity.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
24. Bite The Bullet (1975)
Based on actual events, this Western adventure sees Hackman leading a grueling, long-distance horse race across treacherous terrain. Playing a seasoned cowboy with his own moral code, he delivers a rugged, world-weary performance that makes him feel like a natural in the Western genre.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
23. Wyatt Earp (1994)
Wyatt Earp features Hackman playing Nicholas Earp, the stern and disciplined father of Kevin Costner's titular gunslinger. While the film aims to be a grand historical epic, its slower pacing led to mixed reviews. That said, Hackman's performance as the no-nonsense patriarch is a memorable anchor.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
22. Lucky Lady (1975)
Despite being known for his more serious roles, Lucky Lady features Hackman alongside Burt Reynolds and Liza Minnelli as a trio of rum runners tackling dangerous waters. This film allows Hackman to showcase his comedic timing and easygoing charisma, although it struggled to find an audience.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
21. A Bridge Too Far (1977)
An all-star war epic, A Bridge Too Far features Hackman as real-life Polish General Stanislaw Sosabowski in this dramatization of the failed WWII Operation Market Garden. With a massive ensemble cast that includes Sean Connery, Robert Redford, and Anthony Hopkins, Hackman's screen time is limited but impactful.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
20. No Way Out (1987)
We're in the Top 20 now. In this tense political thriller, Hackman is the scheming Secretary of Defense involved in a cover-up after a murder scandal. Opposite Kevin Costner, he is the representation of a quiet menace to prove once again that he excels at playing powerful yet deeply flawed figures.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
19. Another Woman (1988)
A departure from his usual roles, Another Woman places Hackman in a supporting part within Woody Allen's introspective drama about love and self-discovery. Despite his brief screentime, Hackman's character—a charismatic former lover—serves as an emotional catalyst for the protagonist's journey.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
18. Geronimo: An American Legend (1993)
Though the film centers on Wes Studi's commanding performance, Hackman provides a nuanced take on a man torn between duty and morality. This historical Western features him as Brigadier General George Crook, the US military leader tasked with capturing the Apache warrior Geronimo.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
17. Get Shorty (1995)
What goes behind Hollywood's closed doors? This satirical take on Hollywood's underbelly features Hackman as a struggling movie producer. He will go above and beyond to stay relevant in the business. Playing against type in a more comedic role, Hackman steals scenes with his hilarious desperation and bravado.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
16. The Birdcage (1996)
As the ultra-conservative Senator Kevin Keeley, Hackman's world spirals out of control when his daughter gets engaged to the son of a gay couple. The Birdcage is a heartwarming comedy opposite Robin Williams and Nathan Lane, where Hackman delivers one of his funniest performances.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
15. Hoosiers (1986)
One of the most beloved sports films ever made, Hoosiers finds Hackman in peak form as Norman Dale, a tough but deeply passionate high school basketball coach looking for redemption. With a controversial past and unconventional coaching methods, he faces resistance, but his unwavering dedication eventually wins over.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
14. The Quick And The Dead (1995)
Sam Raimi's stylish Western The Quick and the Dead pits Hackman against Sharon Stone, Russell Crowe, and Leonardo DiCaprio in a high-stakes gunslinging showdown. Hackman is a formidable villain—cold and utterly menacing. Though the film wasn't a box office hit, it has since gained a cult following.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
13. Antz (1998)
Hackman's voice work in Antz as General Mandible, the film's militaristic antagonist, is a perfect example of his ability to dominate a role even when unseen. His deep, authoritative voice brings intensity to the villainous ant, making him a standout in DreamWorks' animated debut.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
12. Enemy Of The State (1998)
Grossing $250.8 million, Enemy of the State pairs Hackman with Will Smith in a spy thriller about government corruption. He plays a former NSA agent who becomes an unwilling ally in Smith's fight against a rogue operation. His performance reinforces his status as Hollywood's go-to figure for paranoia-fueled thrillers.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
11. Superman (1978)
Hackman redefined the comic book villain with his portrayal of Lex Luthor in Superman. Balancing intelligence, arrogance, wit, and mystery, his take on the iconic antagonist remains one of the most memorable in superhero history. The film itself was a groundbreaking success and launched the modern superhero genre.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
10. The Replacements (2000)
In The Replacements, Hackman takes on the role of a football coach brought in to lead a team of misfit players during an NFL strike. While the film leans heavily into humor and feel-good moments, Hackman brings authenticity to the role to raise it beyond standard sports movie fare.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
9. The Mexican (2001)
While The Mexican primarily revolves around Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts, Hackman as crime boss Arnold Margolese adds an extra layer of intrigue. Though he has a brief role, his performance remains memorable as he mixes authority with a surprising level of charm.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
8. Heist (2001)
Directed by David Mamet, Heist casts Hackman as Joe Moore, a seasoned criminal planning one final job. The film's sharp dialogue and intricate plot play to Hackman's strengths and allows him to portray a character who is cunning and weary.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
7. Mississippi Burning (1988)
A harrowing thriller based on real events, Mississippi Burning sees Hackman as an FBI agent investigating the murders of civil rights workers. He's a seasoned, pragmatic investigator who takes a hard-edged approach to justice. The movie received several Academy Award nominations, including a Best Actor nomination for Hackman.
Mississippi Burning - Do You Like Baseball? by Eric Slee
6. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
What happens when eccentric family members gather under one roof? In one of Hackman's most celebrated late-career roles, The Royal Tenenbaums casts him as Royal Tenenbaum, the deeply flawed yet strangely lovable patriarch of a family. Wes Anderson's quirky world suits Hackman's ability to make morally dubious characters compelling.
5. Bonnie And Clyde (1967)
Though not the lead, Hackman's role in Bonnie and Clyde as Buck Barrow was one of his best performances. The film's stylish antihero narrative made it one of the defining productions of the New Hollywood movement. Hackman won his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for this role.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
4. Young Frankenstein (1974)
Hackman had a brief but unforgettable cameo in Young Frankenstein, playing a blind hermit who unwittingly terrorizes Frankenstein's monster (Peter Boyle). He steals the scene with his deadpan delivery of lines like, "Wait! Where are you going? I was going to make espresso!"
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
3. The Conversation (1974)
A true masterpiece of paranoia and psychological tension, The Conversation stars Hackman as Harry Caul, a surveillance expert whose guilt and anxiety go out of control when he believes his latest wiretapped conversation might lead to murder. Francis Ford Coppola's slow-burning thriller is built almost entirely around Hackman's compelling performance.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
2. The French Connection (1971)
This film made Hackman a household name. The French Connection stars him as Popeye Doyle, a relentless NYPD detective on the trail of an international drug smuggling ring. With one of the most famous car chases in movie history, the movie was a game-changer for crime thrillers.
Gene Hackman - clips from all his movies by NZSachse
1. Unforgiven (1992)
A revisionist Western masterpiece, Unforgiven casts Hackman as "Little Bill" Daggett, a brutal yet charismatic sheriff who enforces the law with an iron fist. His performance is mesmerizing and earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor as he stars opposite Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman.
Unforgiven | Little Bill Beats English Bob | Warner Classics by Warner Bros. Classics
