Sam Rockwell currently stars opposite Saoirse Ronan in the new cinematic mystery See How They Run, which draws inspiration from the much-adored murder mystery genre and some of its most famous entries. Rockwell delivers his signature charm and wit in the role, but it won't be the first time that most audiences have seen him at work.
The Oscar-winning actor has had a long and expansive Hollywood career so far, appearing in a wide variety of projects that span a plethora of different styles and genres. He's one of the most versatile actors working today, always displaying an expert control of both drama and comedy roles.
Frost/Nixon (2008) - 3.6/5
One of Rockwell's most interesting and thought-provoking movies to date, Ron Howard's Frost/Nixon explores the complicated relationship between news reporter David Frost and his latest subject, the disgraced president Richard Nixon.
Rockwell might only play a supporting role in the film, but he's still memorable as the American journalist James Reston Jr, one of the key figures in this real-life controversy. He manages to hold his own against both Michael Sheen and Frank Langella as the two titular protagonists, which is a testament to the power of his performance.
The Way Way Back (2013) - 3.6/5
The Way Way Back is a different kind of film for Rockwell, but he manages to shine just as brightly in this quirky comedic role. The coming-of-age drama follows one teenager named Duncan who undergoes some serious self-discovery over the course of an unforgettable summer break.
There's something about Rockwell's performance in The Way Way Back that's inexplicably charming, and as such, it's impossible to imagine any other actor in this particular role. Rockwell is one of the many reasons that The Way Way Back is widely considered one of the best modern coming-of-age movies.
In The Soup (1992) - 3.6/5
Although it's probably one of Sam Rockwell's least-known movies to date, In The Soup remains a brilliant comedy that has a lot of interesting commentary about the filmmaking industry and those who find success within. The dry comedy might not work for everybody, but the entertaining performances will surely be enough to keep any audiences captivated.
Rockwell's role in In The Soup isn't huge, but what he lacks in screen time, he certainly makes up for in memorability. His character is one of the funniest and most amusing of the entire cast, brought to life by Rockwell's pitch-perfect comedic timing.
Light Sleeper (1992) - 3.6/5
Crime dramas aren't usually the kind of movies that Rockwell opts for, but Light Sleeper serves as definitive proof that he's more than capable of handling a darker, more mature role. The film itself is fairly by-the-book when it comes to its gritty crime story, but Paul Schrader's sharp screenplay makes it stand out from the crowd.
Rockwell completely understands Schrader's unique style, matching his dark and philosophical screenplay with one of his most subversive performances to date. Light Sleeper might not always be listed among Schrader's best movies so far, but that doesn't prevent it from being one of his most underrated.
Galaxy Quest (1999) - 3.7/5
There are few movies that have had such a strong influence on pop culture as Galaxy Quest, a hilarious comedy that parodies and references some of the most popular sci-fi projects in movie history. Rockwell is an invaluable addition to the cast, providing his signature dry humor at every turn.
Considered an underappreciated movie from the 90s, Galaxy Quest also boasts one of the most entertaining cast lists of its era, with veteran actors such as Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and Alan Rickman appearing in the lead roles. But despite the film's star power, Rockwell still manages to shine alongside such universal talents.
Moon (2009) - 3.8/5
Whilst the majority of Rockwell's performances up to this point had been in supporting roles, Moon marked a huge turning point for the actor as he's given the spotlight to play not one, but two separate lead roles. The film follows an astronaut stationed on the moon whose life turns upside down when an unexpected visitor appears.
Moon is the kind of movie that messes with people's minds upon the first watch, playing with several complex sci-fi ideas to create a story that needs to be seen at least twice to fully appreciate. The film might just be Rockwell's crowning accomplishment as an actor to date, as he completely carries the story on his shoulders with emotional weight.
The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford (2007) - 3.9/5
Andrew Dominik's subversive drama The Assassination of Jesse James might look like a traditional Western from the outside, but it's actually one of the most inventive and creative films of the past few decades. As the title suggests, the movie follows a long-running rivalry between outlaw Jesse James and his jealous disciple Robert Ford.
Whilst the film is undoubtedly a showcase for both Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck in the lead roles, Rockwell still manages to hold his own with a dark and morally ambiguous performance as Ford's brother Charley. Dominik's screenplay expertly navigates the three characters, with their complex dynamic driving much of the story.
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017) - 4.0/5
Martin McDonagh's Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri was the movie that earned Rockwell his very first nomination (and win) at the Academy Awards, as he completely transforms into a morally corrupt police officer who fails to find justice for a brutal murder that rocked a small town in Missouri.
Rockwell's performance as Officer Dixon will be remembered for a long time, and not just because of his success at the Oscars. The character expertly navigates the complex ethics of the American police force, unafraid to expose the many flaws of the institution.
Jojo Rabbit (2019) - 4.1/5
Nobody blends comedy and tragedy quite like Taika Waititi, and Jojo Rabbit is a perfect example of how he does this so effectively. Although incredibly funny at times, the film also has a tragic sting that underpins many of its most memorable scenes.
Rockwell gets to do exactly what he's best at with Jojo Rabbit, completely embracing his comedic talent and delivering some of the film's most entertaining lines. Many cite Jojo Rabbit as one of the best films of 2019, and Rockwell's involvement probably played a huge role in this.
The Green Mile (1999) - 4.1/5
The Green Mile is adapted from a Stephen King story of the same name, telling the story of a prison guard who forms an unlikely friendship with one of the death row inmates after discovering that he possesses supernatural abilities.
Rockwell's involvement in The Green Mile is only minor, but his performance as 'Wild Bill' Wharton is absolutely unforgettable, and most likely played a huge role in the actor's journey to stardom in the years to follow. And considering the talent that he's sharing the screen with, this was n an easy feat.