Jason Momoa Reveals His Top 5 Favourite Films of All Time – You Won’t Believe What Made the List!

Jason Momoa’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his unforgettable performance in Game of Thrones to his iconic portrayal of Aquaman in the DC Universe, Momoa has become a global phenomenon. As he prepares for the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom later this year, fans eagerly anticipate his return to the big screen. But in a recent conversation with Rotten Tomatoes, Momoa shared some personal insights into the films that have influenced and inspired him throughout his life. Here are his five all-time favourite films that have left a lasting impact on the actor.

1. The Shining (1980) – Stanley Kubrick

One of Momoa’s earliest influences comes from the mind of Stanley Kubrick. The actor revealed his admiration for The Shining, particularly for the legendary performance of Jack Nicholson. “I’m a huge Jack Nicholson fan,” Momoa confessed. “He’s obviously… Everything from Five Easy Pieces, another one that’s just phenomenal to me… Yeah, he’s a god to me. I love him.” For Momoa, Nicholson’s unique combination of humour, intensity, and charm in The Shining remains unmatched. His performance in the film continues to captivate audiences and has clearly left a lasting impression on Momoa, who described the actor as “fantastic” and “just one of a kind.”

2. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) – Elia Kazan

Next on Momoa’s list is the timeless classic A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by Elia Kazan. The film, starring Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh, has earned its place in cinematic history for its powerful performances and complex exploration of human desire and fragility. Momoa’s affection for Brando’s performance is evident, as he spoke of the film with great reverence. Brando’s raw emotion and dynamic portrayal of Stanley Kowalski helped define method acting for future generations of actors, and Momoa seems to admire the way the film pushes the boundaries of performance and storytelling.

3. The Last of the Mohicans (1992) – Michael Mann

A personal childhood favourite, The Last of the Mohicans is a film that has deeply resonated with Momoa. “It was like my childhood favourite,” he said of the 1992 film. The movie, directed by Michael Mann, features Daniel Day-Lewis in a role that has become iconic for its depth and emotional resonance. Momoa also singled out the film’s soundtrack, calling it one of his favourites in the world. The emotional connection to the film is clear, as Momoa admired the complexity of Day-Lewis’ performance. “If you watched Gangs of New York, it sucked, but then you see him as Bill the Butcher, it’s unbelievable,” he added, referencing the transformative nature of Day-Lewis’ acting.

4. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) – Terry Gilliam

For Momoa, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is a film that taps into his love for the surreal and eccentric. Directed by Terry Gilliam, the adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson’s book is known for its wild visuals and bizarre storytelling. “I love the book. Terry Gilliam is phenomenal. I love Terry Gilliam, I just love his mind,” Momoa shared. His admiration for the director is clear, especially considering Gilliam’s ability to bring Thompson’s chaotic vision to life on screen. Momoa also marvels at the fact that Gilliam did not rely on drugs to capture the essence of the book, calling the director “a mad genius.” The film’s creative approach and unpredictability seem to align with Momoa’s own artistic sensibilities.

5. Midnight Express (1978) – Alan Parker

Rounding out Momoa’s list is Midnight Express, Alan Parker’s harrowing 1978 drama about a man’s harrowing experience in a Turkish prison. The film’s raw portrayal of the prison industrial complex left a deep impression on Momoa. He praised it as “really great filmmaking,” comparing it to John Cassavetes’ A Woman Under the Influence for its intense, unflinching style. “You watch that shit, and you are like, you are in that,” Momoa said, referring to the immersive quality of both films. The gripping realism of Midnight Express continues to be a benchmark for impactful cinema that pulls viewers into the emotional core of the story.

Conclusion

Jason Momoa’s film choices reflect his deep appreciation for cinematic masterpieces that range from psychological thrillers to emotionally charged dramas. His picks highlight his respect for powerful performances, complex characters, and directors who challenge traditional storytelling. Whether it’s the haunting intensity of The Shining, the historical depth of The Last of the Mohicans, or the eccentricity of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Momoa’s favourites reveal a well-rounded and discerning taste in film. As he prepares to return to the role of Aquaman, it’s clear that these films have shaped his own approach to his craft—pushing boundaries and embracing the emotional depth that makes great storytelling so memorable.