Unmasking Hardy: The 8 Tom Hardy Films That Prove He’s More Than ‘Taboo’

Tom Hardy’s unforgettable performance in Taboo has left fans clamoring for more of his gritty and intense roles. Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century London, Taboo introduced us to Hardy’s complex portrayal of James Keziah Delaney, a character caught in a web of political corruption, crime, and personal vendettas. While the show only aired one season, with a second still in the works, there are plenty of other Hardy films and series to quench the thirst for more of his commanding performances. Whether it’s crime dramas, thrillers, or period pieces, Hardy has shown his incredible versatility across genres. Here are eight must-watch projects for fans who loved Taboo.

8. Band of Brothers (2001)

A star-studded HBO miniseries, Band of Brothers follows the heroic efforts of “Easy” Company during World War II. The series, created by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, features Hardy in his debut role as Private First Class John A. Janovec. While the show’s tone differs from Taboo, the intensity of Hardy’s performance stands out even in this ensemble cast, making it a fascinating starting point for Hardy fans.

7. Lawless (2012)

Set in the Prohibition era, Lawless tells the story of the Bondurant brothers, bootleggers who run afoul of the law. Hardy stars alongside Shia LaBeouf and Jason Clarke as Forrest Bondurant, a stoic and resilient character who represents the rough-and-tumble spirit of 1930s America. While Lawless garnered mixed reviews, Hardy’s rugged charm and his performance in a cowboy hat are undeniably captivating.

6. The Drop (2014)

In this moody crime drama, Hardy plays a bartender whose quiet life spirals after his mob-connected bar gets robbed. Directed by Michaël R. Roskam and based on a short story by Dennis Lehane, The Drop is a perfect showcase of Hardy’s ability to slowly peel back his character’s layers, leading to a compelling and satisfying reveal. With strong performances from Hardy, James Gandolfini (in his final role), and Noomi Rapace, The Drop is a must-see for crime drama fans.

5. The Revenant (2015)

In The Revenant, Hardy earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of the treacherous trapper John Fitzgerald, a man who abandons his fellow guide (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) in the wilderness. Hardy’s chilling performance as a villain who thrives on manipulation and brute strength has been widely praised. This survival thriller, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, is a career-defining role for both Hardy and DiCaprio.

4. Legend (2015)

Hardy delivers one of his most remarkable performances in Legend, where he portrays both of the notorious Kray twins, Ron and Reggie. The biographical crime drama explores the rise and fall of the infamous London crime bosses in the 1960s. Hardy’s dual role allows him to showcase his immense range as he transforms his body language and vocal tones to distinguish the two characters. Critics may have had mixed opinions on the film, but Hardy’s work was universally praised for its depth and commitment.

3. Dunkirk (2017)

In Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, Hardy plays Farrier, a Spitfire pilot who provides air support during the daring evacuation of British soldiers from France in 1940. While his screen time is limited, Hardy’s role in this war epic remains unforgettable. Dunkirk was nominated for eight Academy Awards and won three, including Best Editing and Best Director. The film’s ensemble cast, which includes Cillian Murphy and Mark Rylance, delivers powerful performances, and Hardy’s portrayal adds emotional weight to this high-stakes drama.

2. Peaky Blinders (2014-2022)

For fans of Hardy’s Taboo character, Peaky Blinders is a must-watch. In this British period crime drama, Hardy plays Alfie Solomons, a volatile and unpredictable gangster leader. His portrayal of Alfie brings the same raw intensity and charisma that made his Taboo role so magnetic. The dynamic between Hardy’s character and Cillian Murphy’s Thomas Shelby is electric, making Alfie one of the standout characters in the series. If you loved Hardy’s complex Taboo performance, you’ll be hooked on his turn in Peaky Blinders.

1. Mobland (2025)

One of Hardy’s latest projects, Mobland, is a gripping crime series that takes viewers into the world of organized crime. Hardy plays Harry Da Souza, a fixer for a crime family, who is tasked with safeguarding the family’s assets. Known for playing larger-than-life characters, Hardy gives an unexpectedly grounded performance in Mobland, focusing on portraying a more reasonable gangster than his typical tough-guy roles. If you’re seeking a fresh and nuanced Hardy performance that still holds onto his signature grit, Mobland is a great choice.

For fans of Taboo, these films and series are perfect for diving deeper into Tom Hardy’s career and exploring the diverse range of characters he’s portrayed. From war heroes to ruthless gangsters, Hardy’s versatile acting talent shines through in every role, delivering intensity, depth, and a commanding presence on screen.