Liam Neeson, an actor celebrated for his versatility, has graced the screen in numerous iconic roles, ranging from superheroes to Jedi masters, and from action heroes to heartfelt characters. From battling Batman to leading revolutions, Neeson's career spans decades, marked by his ability to seamlessly transition between genres. Here, we delve into the top 10 Liam Neeson movies, celebrating his most memorable performances and the films that have left an indelible mark on cinema.
The 10 Best Liam Neeson Movies
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10. Love Actually (2003)
Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: Richard Curtis | Writer: Richard Curtis | Stars: Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Laura Linney | Release Date: November 14, 2003 | Where to watch: Available to rent on Amazon and most platforms
Liam Neeson's performance in Richard Curtis's beloved Christmas rom-com, "Love Actually," stands out as a poignant portrayal of a grieving widower. His tender and supportive role as he helps his stepson navigate young love showcases a side of Neeson that contrasts with his more familiar, stern demeanor. This warmth and vulnerability are what make his performance so memorable.
9. Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace (1999)
Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: George Lucas | Writer: George Lucas | Stars: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Jake Lloyd | Release Date: May 19, 1999 | Review: IGN's The Phantom Menace review | Where to watch: Stream on Disney+ or rent on Amazon and most platforms
Liam Neeson's portrayal of Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn anchors the controversial Star Wars prequel. His commanding presence and dedication to the Force provide a strong foundation for the saga, making his tragic demise even more impactful. Neeson's return as Qui-Gon in Disney+'s "Obi-Wan Kenobi" series delighted fans, bringing a sense of closure to his character's journey.
8. Michael Collins (1996)
Image credit: Warner Bros.
Director: Neil Jordan | Writer: Neil Jordan | Stars: Aidan Quinn, Stephen Rea, Alan Rickman | Release Date: October 11, 1996 | Where to watch: Available to rent on most platforms
In "Michael Collins," Liam Neeson delivers a powerful performance as the Irish revolutionary leader. His magnetic presence and passionate portrayal earned him critical acclaim and several acting awards. The film, which also stars Julia Roberts and Alan Rickman, is a compelling depiction of Ireland's struggle for independence, showcasing Neeson's ability to lead a historical epic.
7. Silence (2016)
Image credit: Paramount Pictures
Director: Martin Scorsese | Writer: Martin Scorsese, Jay Cocks | Stars: Adam Driver, Andrew Garfield, Tadanobu Asano | Release Date: December 23, 2016 | Review: IGN's Silence review | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy or rent on Amazon and most platforms
Liam Neeson's second collaboration with Martin Scorsese, "Silence," is a deeply contemplative film about faith and perseverance. Playing the enigmatic Cristóvão Ferreira, Neeson's performance adds layers to the narrative, exploring the complexities of belief under duress. This film, a passion project for Scorsese, showcases Neeson's ability to convey profound emotional depth.
6. Kinsey (2004)
Image credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures
Director: Bill Condon | Writer: Bill Condon | Stars: Laura Linney, Chris O'Donnell, John Lithgow | Release Date: November 12, 2004 | Review: IGN's Kinsey review | Where to watch: Available to rent on Amazon and most platforms
In "Kinsey," Liam Neeson embodies the pioneering sexologist Alfred Kinsey with intelligence and intensity. Directed by Bill Condon, the film delves into Kinsey's groundbreaking research on human sexuality. Neeson's portrayal captures the obsessive drive and intellectual curiosity of Kinsey, making it one of his most critically acclaimed roles.
5. Batman Begins (2005)
Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: Christopher Nolan | Writer: Christopher Nolan, David S. Goyer | Stars: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Katie Holmes | Release Date: June 15, 2005 | Review: IGN's Batman Begins review | Where to watch: Stream on Max or rent on Amazon and most platforms
Liam Neeson plays a pivotal role in "Batman Begins" as the mentor and eventual adversary to Bruce Wayne. His portrayal of Ra's al Ghul is both commanding and nuanced, adding depth to the film's exploration of justice and vengeance. Neeson's performance is crucial to the success of Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy, setting the stage for one of the most acclaimed superhero series.
4. Darkman (1990)
Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: Sam Raimi | Writer: Chuck Pfarrer, Sam Raimi, Ivan Raimi, and more | Stars: Frances McDormand, Colin Friels, Larry Drake | Release Date: August 24, 1990 | Review: IGN's Darkman review | Where to watch: Stream on AMC+ Apple TV Channel or rent on Amazon and most platforms
In "Darkman," Liam Neeson delivers a thrilling performance as a disfigured scientist seeking revenge. Directed by Sam Raimi, the film blends horror and action, showcasing Neeson's ability to portray a complex, vengeful character. His portrayal of the titular vigilante is both intense and captivating, marking a significant early role in his career.
3. Rob Roy (1995)
Image credit: MGM/UA Distribution Co.
Director: Michael Caton-Jones | Writer: Alan Sharp | Stars: Jessica Lange, John Hurt, Tim Roth | Release Date: April 7, 1995 | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy and Prime Video or rent on most platforms
Liam Neeson's portrayal of the Scottish clan chief in "Rob Roy" is a testament to his ability to lead a historical drama. Despite competing with "Braveheart" in the same year, "Rob Roy" stands out for its character-driven narrative and Neeson's powerful performance. His portrayal of the titular character, filled with passion and determination, is both compelling and inspiring.
2. Taken (2008)
Image credit: EuropaCorp Distribution
Director: Pierre Morel | Writer: Luc Besson, Robert Mark Kamen | Stars: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Leland Orser | Release Date: February 27, 2008 | Review: IGN's Taken review | Where to watch: Stream on Hulu or rent on other platforms
"Taken" transformed Liam Neeson into an action icon. His role as Bryan Mills, a retired CIA operative with a "particular set of skills," is both intense and gripping. The film's tight plot and Neeson's commanding performance revitalized his career, leading to a series of action thrillers that capitalized on his newfound status as an action hero.
1. Schindler’s List (1993)
Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: Steven Spielberg | Writer: Steven Zaillian | Stars: Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Caroline Goodall | Release Date: December 15, 1993 | Review: IGN's Schindler's List review | Where to watch: Stream on Netflix or rent on Amazon and most platforms
Liam Neeson's performance in "Schindler's List" is widely regarded as his finest work. Playing Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over 1,200 Jewish refugees during the Holocaust, Neeson delivers a nuanced and emotionally charged performance. The film, directed by Steven Spielberg, won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Neeson's portrayal earned him an Oscar nomination.
Upcoming Liam Neeson Movies
Liam Neeson's future projects are eagerly anticipated by fans. The most notable upcoming film is the "The Naked Gun" reboot, set to release on August 1, 2025. Other projects in the pipeline include thrillers like "Cold Storage" and "Riker's Ghost," action films such as "The Mongoose" and "Hotel Tehran," and the political thriller "Charlie Johnson in the Flames." Additionally, fans can look forward to "Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky" and a sequel to "Run All Night."
Liam Neeson Movie List
For those interested in exploring Liam Neeson's extensive filmography, here is a comprehensive list of his movies in order of release date:
- Christiana (1981)
- Excalibur (1981)
- Krull (1983)
- The Bounty (1984)
- Lamb (1985)
- The Innocent (1985)
- The Mission (1986)
- Duet for One (1986)
- Suspect (1987)
- A Prayer for the Dying (1987)
- Satisfaction (1988)
- High Spirits (1988)
- The Dead Pool (1988)
- The Good Mother (1988)
- Next of Kin (1989)
- Darkman (1990)
- The Big Man (1990)
- Under Suspicion (1991)
- Shining Through (1992)
- Husbands and Wives (1992)
- Leap of Faith (1992)
- Ethan Frome (1993)
- Ruby Cairo (1993)
- Schindler's List (1993)
- Nell (1994)
- Rob Roy (1995)
- Before and After (1996)
- Michael Collins (1996)
- Everest (1998)
- Les Misérables (1998)
- Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace (1999)
- The Haunting (1999)
- Gun Shy (2000)
- The Endurance (2000)
- K-19: The Widowmaker (2002)
- Gangs of New York (2002)
- Star Wars: Episode 2 - Attack of the Clones (2002)
- Love Actually (2003)
- Coral Reef Adventure (2003)
- Kinsey (2004)
- Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
- Batman Begins (2005)
- Breakfast on Pluto (2005)
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
- Home (2006)
- Seraphim Falls (2007)
- The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008)
- The Other Man (2008)
- Taken (2008)
- Five Minutes of Heaven (2009)
- Ponyo (2009)
- After.Life (2009)
- Chloe (2009)
- Clash of the Titans (2010)
- The A-Team (2010)
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)
- The Next Three Days (2010)
- The Wildest Dream (2010)
- Unknown (2011)
- The Grey (2012)
- Wrath of the Titans (2012)
- Battleship (2012)
- The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
- Taken 2 (2012)
- Third Person (2013)
- Khumba (2013)
- Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013)
- The Nut Job (2014)
- The Lego Movie (2014)
- The Prophet (2014)
- Non-Stop (2014)
- A Million Ways to Die in the West (2014)
- A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014)
- Love Thy Nature (2014)
- Road (2014)
- Taken 3 (2014)
- Run All Night (2015)
- Ted 2 (2015)
- A Christmas Star (2015)
- Operation Chromite (2016)
- A Monster Calls (2016)
- Silence (2016)
- The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature (2017)
- Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House (2017)
- Daddy's Home 2 (2017)
- The Commuter (2018)
- The Last Horsemen of New York (2018)
- The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
- Widows (2018)
- Cold Pursuit (2019)
- Men in Black: International (2019)
- Ordinary Love (2019)
- Star Wars: Episode 9 - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
- Made in Italy (2020)
- Honest Thief (2020)
- The Hunter (2020)
- The Marksman (2021)
- The Ice Road (2021)
- Blacklight (2022)
- Memory (2022)
- Marlowe (2022)
- Retribution (2023)
- In the Land of Saints and Sinners (2023)
- Wildcat (2023)
- Absolution (2024)
- The Naked Gun (Releasing 2025)
- Cold Storage (TBD)
- Hotel Tehran (TBD)
- 4 Kids Walk Into a Bank (TBD)
- The Mongoose (TBD)
- Charlie Johnson in the Flames (TBD)
- The Riker's Ghost (TBD)
- Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky (TBD)
These films showcase Liam Neeson's remarkable range and enduring appeal, making him a beloved figure in the world of cinema. Whether you're a fan of his action-packed thrillers or his deeply moving dramas, there's no denying the impact of his work on the big screen.
