Tom Hardy’s Top 12 Films Ranked—You Won’t Believe Which WW2 Gem Beat Out ‘Bronson’

Tom Hardy’s journey from relative obscurity to one of the most versatile and celebrated actors of his generation has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past two decades, Hardy has delivered unforgettable performances across genres, from intense biopics to high-octane blockbusters. Known for his transformative roles, including Bane in The Dark Knight Rises and Max Rockatansky in Mad Max: Fury Road, Hardy’s career is far more expansive and nuanced. This article ranks his top 12 performances, based on audience ratings from the popular review platform Letterboxd.

12. Bronson (2008) – 3.8/5

In Bronson, Hardy takes on the role of Michael Peterson, a man whose violent tendencies lead him to become Britain’s most notorious prisoner, Charles Bronson. The film explores his descent into madness after years of solitary confinement. Hardy’s transformation into the infamous figure earned him widespread acclaim for his fearless portrayal of a man consumed by his own inner turmoil.

11. Black Hawk Down (2001) – 3.7/5

Though Hardy’s role in Black Hawk Down is relatively small as SPC Lance Twombly, the film is a powerful portrayal of the 1993 U.S. military raid in Mogadishu, Somalia. Directed by Ridley Scott, this war drama focuses on the chaos that ensues when two Black Hawk helicopters are shot down, leading to an intense firefight between U.S. soldiers and Somali militia. The film was a critical success, winning two Academy Awards.

10. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011) – 3.7/5

In this Cold War spy thriller, Hardy plays Ricki Tarr, a British agent whose report of a potential mole sets off a tense investigation within British Intelligence. Directed by Tomas Alfredson and based on John le Carré’s classic novel, the film boasts an impressive cast, including Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Hardy’s understated but pivotal role is integral to the film’s gripping narrative.

9. Marie Antoinette (2006) – 3.7/5

Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette takes a stylized approach to the life of the French queen, played by Kirsten Dunst. Hardy plays Raumont, a courtier in the increasingly strained world of Versailles. The film’s bold visual choices and anachronistic soundtrack were polarizing, but Hardy’s supporting role stood out, contributing to the film’s growing recognition for its artistic merits.

8. Stuart: A Life Backwards (2007) – 3.8/5

In this BBC television film, Hardy plays Stuart Shorter, a homeless man with a violent history, who befriends writer Alexander Masters (Benedict Cumberbatch). The film tells Stuart’s life story in reverse, delving into his troubled past. Hardy’s heartfelt performance earned him a BAFTA nomination for Best Actor, showcasing his incredible range and ability to bring complexity to even the most tragic characters.

7. Dunkirk (2017) – 3.8/5

Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk is a World War II epic that depicts the harrowing evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk, France. Hardy plays RAF pilot Farrier, a key figure providing air support in the battle. His largely wordless performance relies heavily on physicality and expression, cementing his status as one of the most versatile actors in the industry. The film earned critical acclaim, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Editing and Best Sound Mixing.

6. The Dark Knight Rises (2012) – 3.8/5

In the final installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, Hardy delivers a commanding performance as the masked revolutionary Bane, a character who seeks to bring Gotham to its knees. Hardy’s transformation for the role, including his distinct voice and physically imposing figure, helped make Bane one of the most memorable villains in superhero film history. The film grossed over $1 billion worldwide and was widely praised for its ambition.

5. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) – 3.8/5

Hardy makes a surprise appearance in Spider-Man: No Way Home as Eddie Brock/Venom in a post-credits scene, marking his crossover into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Though a small role, Hardy’s reprisal of the character added an exciting dimension to the multiverse storyline. The film became the highest-grossing movie of 2021, earning over $1.9 billion worldwide and receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.

4. The Revenant (2015) – 3.9/5

Hardy earned his first Oscar nomination for his role as John Fitzgerald in Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s The Revenant. In this intense survival drama, Hardy plays a member of the expedition who betrays Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, Hugh Glass. His portrayal of Fitzgerald, a morally ambiguous figure, was lauded for its depth, contributing to the film’s critical success. The Revenant won three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for DiCaprio.

3. Warrior (2011) – 4.0/5

In this emotionally charged sports drama, Hardy plays Tommy Conlon, a troubled former Marine who enters a mixed martial arts tournament with a personal vendetta. Hardy’s portrayal of Tommy is a masterclass in intensity and vulnerability, as he navigates family trauma and the brutal fight for redemption. The film received positive critical reviews and earned Nick Nolte an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

2. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) – 4.2/5

In George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road, Hardy takes on the iconic role of Max Rockatansky, a drifter caught in a high-speed chase across a post-apocalyptic desert. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning six Academy Awards, including Best Editing and Best Production Design. Hardy’s portrayal of Max is both grizzled and stoic, serving as the perfect foil to Charlize Theron’s Furiosa. Fury Road earned widespread acclaim for its direction, stunts, and practical effects.

1. Inception (2010) – 4.4/5

Hardy’s role as the charming forger Eames in Christopher Nolan’s Inception takes the top spot on this list. In this mind-bending thriller, Hardy adds wit and charisma to his performance, playing a key role in the team’s mission to infiltrate the subconscious mind of a target. Inception was a massive commercial success and received eight Academy Award nominations, winning four, including Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects. Hardy’s performance stands out as one of the most memorable in a star-studded ensemble.

From his early days in indie films to his powerhouse performances in some of the most iconic blockbusters, Tom Hardy’s career is a testament to his remarkable versatility. With each new role, he continues to challenge himself, leaving a lasting impact on the world of cinema.