Nicolas Cage, an Oscar-winning actor, has experienced a rollercoaster of reactions from the public—praised, applauded, mocked, and maligned. Yet, his unwavering commitment to his craft is undeniable. Cage pours his heart and soul into every role, often making bold, creative choices that have led him into the realm of internet memes. However, there's no denying the vigor and explosive talent he brings to the screen.
Cage's filmography spans acclaimed romantic comedies, soul-crushing dramas, and some of the biggest action blockbusters of the 1990s. His resume is so extensive that we've expanded our "Best Of" list to include 15 standout films, rather than the usual top 10. He has collaborated with powerhouse directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and even his uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most memorable performances in cinematic history. For those interested in more Cage magic, don't miss the 40 best Nicolas Cage moments compiled by a dedicated fan who has seen every film he's starred in.
Over his four decades in the industry, Cage has explored every genre imaginable. 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 best movies ever.