Brad Pitt has been a Hollywood icon for decades, starring in some of the biggest and most beloved movies of all time. From his breakthrough role in Thelma & Louise to his recent Oscar-winning performance in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Pitt has proven himself to be a versatile actor who can slip into almost any role. Here we take a look at some of his most iconic movie roles and what made them so memorable.
Fight Club (1999)
Arguably Pitt’s most iconic role, Fight Club sees him play Tyler Durden, the charismatic and anarchic leader of a secret society of men who engage in violent and subversive activities. Pitt’s performance is magnetic, capturing Tyler’s dangerous edge and twisted sense of humor. He is the perfect foil for Edward Norton’s buttoned-up narrator, and the two actors’ chemistry is electric.
Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
In Ocean’s Eleven, Pitt plays Rusty Ryan, a cool-headed con man and the right-hand man to George Clooney’s Danny Ocean. With his sharp suits and sly grin, Pitt exudes effortless charm and charisma, making Rusty both the ultimate partner in crime and a formidable match for the film’s villains. His scene-stealing moments, such as his attempt at dyeing Matt Damon’s hair, are some of the film’s most memorable.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
In Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Pitt and co-star Angelina Jolie play a married couple who are secretly assassins hired to kill each other. The film is a high-octane mix of action and comedy, and Pitt’s performance as the smooth and deadly John Smith is one of his most entertaining. His chemistry with Jolie is palpable, and the film’s success no doubt helped set the stage for their real-life romance.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Pitt plays the titular character in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a man who is born old and ages in reverse. The film spans decades, and Pitt’s performance is remarkable as he seamlessly portrays Benjamin’s progression from old age to youth. His scenes with Cate Blanchett, who plays the love of Benjamin’s life, are both poignant and heartfelt, and the film’s stunning visual effects make it a true cinematic experience.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
In Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Pitt plays Cliff Booth, the loyal and enigmatic stuntman to Leonardo DiCaprio’s fading TV actor. Pitt won an Oscar for his performance, and it’s not hard to see why. He imbues Cliff with a quiet strength and charisma, making him both a formidable ally and a mysterious figure. His scenes with Margot Robbie’s Sharon Tate are both sweet and melancholic, and his epic fight sequence at the film’s climax is a masterclass in physical acting.
In conclusion, Brad Pitt has proven himself to be one of the most iconic actors of his generation, with a filmography full of memorable performances. Whether he’s playing a cool-headed con man or a dangerous anarchist, he always brings his A-game, making us laugh, cry, and cheer. It will be exciting to see what roles he takes on next and the iconic performances that are sure to follow.