1. Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 112685, ID: 0292963 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke’s commanding presence in ‘Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead’ is a highlight, where his gripping portrayal of a man unraveling, alongside Philip Seymour Hoffman, crafts an unforgettable crime drama.
2. Great Expectations 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 57263, ID: 0119223 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In a modern twist on a classic, Ethan Hawke brings depth to Finn in ‘Great Expectations,’ a visually striking film that, despite occasional emotional distance, benefits from Hawke’s nuanced interpretation of the character alongside Gwyneth Paltrow.
3. The Magnificent Seven 2016，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 230750, ID: 2404435 Photo by coyoteproductions.co.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke shines as the PTSD-stricken sharpshooter Goodnight Robicheaux in the remake of ‘The Magnificent Seven,’ adding a crucial layer of gravitas and emotional resonance to the film, even as it struggles to match its predecessors’ original charm.
4. White Fang 1991，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 22674, ID: 0103247 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As Jack Conroy in Disney’s ‘White Fang,’ Ethan Hawke delivers an earnest and captivating performance, embodying the adventurous spirit and the profound bond between a young prospector and his wolf in the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
5. Born to Be Blue 2015，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 9326, ID: 2133196 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Born to Be Blue showcases Ethan Hawke’s exceptional talent as he embodies jazz legend Chet Baker. The film’s non-linear narrative and artistic liberties offer a fresh take on the biopic genre. Hawke’s portrayal of Baker’s struggles with addiction and his quest for redemption is both haunting and mesmerizing. The film’s moody atmosphere and soulful music make it a poignant and unforgettable experience.
6. Good Kill 2014，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 25008, ID: 3297330 Photo by coyotepr.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke powerfully embodies Major Thomas Egan in ‘Good Kill,’ a drone pilot wrestling with the profound ethical quandaries of modern warfare, making this a stark and compelling examination of the human cost of remote conflict.
7. Maudie 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 22164, ID: 3721954 Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In the heartwarming biopic ‘Maudie,’ Ethan Hawke offers a tender yet raw portrayal of Everett Lewis, a gruff fishmonger who finds love with the resilient artist Maud Lewis, creating a poignant cinematic partnership with Sally Hawkins.
8. Boyhood 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 369056, ID: 1065073 Photo by blog.coyoteproductions.co.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke’s role as Mason Sr. in the groundbreaking 12-year project ‘Boyhood’ is a deeply authentic and heartfelt depiction of a father navigating the complexities of staying connected with his children, resonating with universal themes of family and time.
9. Dead Poets Society 1989，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 554993, ID: 0097165 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Dead Poets Society is an inspiring drama that highlights the importance of individuality and the power of unconventional teaching. Ethan Hawke’s role as Todd Anderson, a shy student who finds his voice through the guidance of his teacher, is both touching and powerful. The film’s themes of self-expression and the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs resonate deeply, making it a timeless classic.
10. Regression 2015，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 42847, ID: 3319920 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As Detective Bruce Kenner in the psychological thriller ‘Regression,’ Ethan Hawke delivers an intense and gripping performance, drawing viewers into a dark world of repressed memories and paranoia, despite the film’s sometimes convoluted plot.
11. Stockholm 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.1, IMDB Votes: 14877, ID: 6474040 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Stockholm is a captivating drama based on the true story of the 1973 bank heist that gave rise to the term ‘Stockholm Syndrome.’ Ethan Hawke’s portrayal of Lars Nystrom, the charismatic and unpredictable bank robber, is both compelling and nuanced. The film balances humor and tension, providing a unique perspective on the psychological dynamics between captor and captive. It’s a fascinating look at human behavior under extreme circumstances.
12. Snow Falling on Cedars 1999，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 14617, ID: 0120834 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke’s portrayal of Ishmael Chambers in ‘Snow Falling on Cedars’ is a masterclass in subtlety and depth. The film, set against the backdrop of a post-WWII murder trial, is visually stunning but often criticized for its slow pace. However, Hawke’s performance as a conflicted journalist adds a layer of emotional complexity that elevates the narrative. His ability to convey internal turmoil and unspoken love makes this film a standout in his career.
13. Hamlet 2000，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 10078, ID: 0171359 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke breathes new life into Shakespeare’s iconic character with his bold, brooding portrayal of Hamlet in this modern New York adaptation, offering a compelling and thought-provoking take on the prince’s existential struggles.
14. Getaway 2013，IMDB Rating: 4.4, IMDB Votes: 25369, ID: 2167202 Photo by newsfilter.gr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ethan Hawke’s role in ‘Getaway’ is a high-octane thrill ride that showcases his action-hero chops. Playing Brent Magna, a former race car driver forced into a dangerous mission, Hawke brings a sense of urgency and desperation to the role. While the film is often criticized for its lackluster script and frenetic direction, Hawke’s performance adds a layer of authenticity that keeps the audience engaged.
15. Reality Bites 1994，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 54174, ID: 0110950 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In the quintessential 90s film ‘Reality Bites,’ Ethan Hawke captivates as the disillusioned slacker Troy, embodying the angst and hopes of a generation with his charismatic and poignant performance in this timeless exploration of friendship and ambition.
Ethan Hawke’s Cinematic Journey: 15 Unmissable Roles That Define His Career
