Nicolas Cage, an Oscar-winning actor, has experienced a whirlwind of reactions from audiences and critics alike—praised, applauded, mocked, and maligned. Yet, his dedication to his craft remains unwavering, as he pours his heart and soul into every role he undertakes. While some of his bold creative decisions have propelled him into the realm of internet memes, there's no denying the explosive and vigorous talent that Cage brings to the screen.
Throughout his career, Cage has starred in acclaimed romantic comedies, soul-crushing dramas, and some of the most iconic action films of the 1990s. His filmography is so extensive that we've expanded this "Best Of" list to include 15 entries, rather than the typical top 10. He has collaborated with powerhouse directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and even his own uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most unforgettable performances in cinematic history. For fans looking for more, don't miss the 40 best Nicolas Cage moments compiled by a dedicated superfan who has seen every film in Cage's oeuvre.
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 wild, lethal bender in Las Vegas—and even playing a version of himself in a meta-adventure reflecting on his own career—these are our selections for Nicolas Cage's greatest movies of all time.
