Nicolas Cage, an Academy Award-winning actor, has experienced a rollercoaster of reactions from audiences and critics alike—praised, applauded, mocked, and maligned. Yet, Cage consistently delivers performances brimming with passion and intensity, fully immersing himself in each role. His daring creative choices sometimes propel him into the realm of internet memes, but there's no denying the explosive vigor of his talent.
Cage's filmography spans acclaimed romantic comedies, heart-wrenching dramas, and some of the most iconic action films of the 1990s. His resume is so extensive that we've expanded our "Best Of" list to 15 entries, breaking from the traditional top 10. Throughout his career, Cage has collaborated with legendary directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and even his uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most unforgettable performances in cinematic history. (For more on Cage's standout moments, check out the 40 best Nicolas Cage scenes compiled by a dedicated fan who has seen every film he's starred in.)
Over four decades, Cage has ventured into every conceivable genre. From thwarting a chemical gas attack in San Francisco to embarking on a deadly bender in Las Vegas, and even portraying a meta-version of himself reflecting on his career, these are our selections for Nicolas Cage's finest films.
