Bruce Willis Reveals His Ultimate Movie Picks: The Films He Watches 5 Times a Year!

Bruce Willis, the celebrated actor known for his unforgettable roles in Die Hard, Pulp Fiction, and Moonrise Kingdom, remains one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood. While his recent career has seen a decline in both the quality and nature of his projects, Willis’ legacy as an actor continues to be celebrated. Known for his commanding presence and tough-guy persona, Willis’ work over the years has left an indelible mark on the film industry.

As fans have become critical of his more recent films — primarily low-budget, direct-to-video thrillers — it’s clear that these projects do not reflect the career he built over decades. Initially, many speculated that Willis took on these roles to secure the financial future of his family. However, the truth behind his decision was far more heartbreaking. Earlier this year, it was revealed that Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia, a neurological disorder that impairs language comprehension and speech production. This explains why his recent roles featured minimal dialogue, as the condition makes it challenging for him to perform at the level he once did.

In light of this revelation, the Golden Raspberry Awards committee retracted its previous nominations of Willis for “Worst Performance” due to the understanding that his health condition was the primary factor affecting his recent work. Despite these challenges, the actor’s legacy remains intact, thanks in part to the incredible body of work he delivered earlier in his career.

When reflecting on his personal cinematic tastes, Willis shared a list of his favorite films — those that he often revisits, watching three to five times a year. His choices offer insight into his influences and the types of films that shaped his love for cinema. From Stanley Kubrick’s dark comedy Dr. Strangelove to Martin Scorsese’s powerful Raging Bull, Willis’ list is filled with timeless classics from some of the most influential directors in film history.

Bruce Willis’ Favourite Films

• Dr. Strangelove (1964) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick

• The Godfather (1972) – Directed by Francis Ford Coppola

• Raging Bull (1980) – Directed by Martin Scorsese

• Spartacus (1960) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick

• The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) – Directed by David Lean

• The Godfather Part II (1974) – Directed by Francis Ford Coppola

• Taxi Driver (1976) – Directed by Martin Scorsese

• Alien (1979) – Directed by Ridley Scott

• Goodfellas (1990) – Directed by Martin Scorsese

• The Last Picture Show (1971) – Directed by Peter Bogdanovich

• Reservoir Dogs (1992) – Directed by Quentin Tarantino

• The Great Escape (1963) – Directed by John Sturges

• On the Waterfront (1954) – Directed by Elia Kazan

• 300 (2006) – Directed by Zack Snyder

• Bullitt (1968) – Directed by Peter Yates

• Patton (1970) – Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner

This list is not only a testament to Willis’ admiration for films that blend powerful performances with unique storytelling but also highlights his affection for genre-defining works. A key selection, Reservoir Dogs, stands out as it was a pivotal film in Willis’ own career. Quentin Tarantino’s debut film helped convince Willis to take part in Pulp Fiction, one of his most iconic roles. The influence of Scorsese, Kubrick, and other legendary filmmakers is evident in Willis’ selections, showing that his cinematic palate is as refined and thoughtful as his performances.

Although Willis was only asked to name five favorites, he ultimately named many more, saying, “I really dug 300, the first Alien, The Last Picture Show… that’s more than 5 or 6.” His decision to include so many beloved films underscores the profound impact these classics had on him. They represent the depth of his love for the craft, as well as the wide-ranging tastes that helped shape his approach to acting.

A Legacy in the Making

As Willis’ health challenges continue to affect his career, his legacy is secure thanks to his remarkable contributions to film. His honest reflection on his career choices, as well as his candidness about the impact of aphasia, has endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. Despite the criticisms of his recent work, Willis remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, not just for the roles he took on but for his profound influence on the industry and his enduring passion for the art of filmmaking.

In revisiting the films that inspired him, we see a man who appreciates the timeless nature of great cinema and who, through his performances, contributed to the creation of cinematic history. Bruce Willis’ favorite films are not only a window into his tastes but also a reminder of the lasting impact he’s made on the world of film.