Russell Crowe, who is set to play Robin Hood in a new movie coming out later this year, has had quite a career in the movie business. The Australian is famous for being a bit on the fiery side, and it is no small wonder that the majority of his great movies tap into that passion. Regardless of his temper, Russell Crowe is one of the greatest actors of all time. It was not easy to come up with a top four list with so many great choices, but here are the best of the best in my view:
4. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
As Captain Jack Aubrey, Russell Crowe shines in a film that is known for it’s incredible cinematography as well as a great storyline. Crowe does a wonderful job of playing the powerful, yet caring Captain in one of the most underrated films of his illustrious career. This movie is without a doubt much better on the big screen than on DVD, unless you have a very large screen television.
3. Mystery, Alaska (1999)
Now this is one of those movies that you could have missed unless you were paying attention. If you have missed it, you need to go and purchase a copy right away. The movie is about a small town hockey team that becomes famous for playing an NHL hockey team on their local ice. The movie is loaded with all the things that make a great movie; comedy, drama, action, and even a bit of sports excitement. Crowe plays the town sheriff as well as the captain of the hockey team. This movie was way better than ticket sales showed.
2. Cinderella Man (2005)
Cinderella Man is one of those movies that stays with you forever. It is the true story of boxing legend Jim Braddock, and his incredible struggles in the boxing ring and life itself in the depression era. This is easily one of Russell Crowe’s most inspired roles, and it came very close to sitting atop the list. Crowe plays the role of Braddock who fights his way from the slums all the way to the heavyweight championship of the world. The movie is great in the fight scenes in much the same way as Rocky, but with an even better behind the scenes storyline of what it was like during the depression. If this movie does not a bring a tear or two to your eyes, you are a better man than me.
1. Gladiator (2000)
Gladiator is an absolute epic that has no equal in the genre. From the opening battle scene to the Roman Coliseum, Gladiator absolutely blows you away with the sweeping visuals and visceral violence. The violence is a perfect example, however, of the movie that would not be correct without it. Many people have trouble watching the movie due to the violent nature of it, but the movie is far more than just pretty film making and blood and guts. This movie has a stunning story, and Russell Crowe is mesmerizing as the Roman General Maximus that is entrusted with the future of Rome by Caesar, only to be turned on by Caesar’s corrupt son after murdering his Dad. The movie is an absolute must for any period movie fan, and is the best role of Crowe’s storied career.
Image Credited To Flickr User Cien de Cine
It’s nice to see your fine appreciation of Russell Crowe movies and interesting to note your choices. This is a very hard category to narrow to four. I think Mystery, Alaska being there kind of surprised me, as much as I adore John Biebe and as well as Russ portrayed him. If you go by sheer performance alone, it’s hard to leave out A Beautiful Mind or The Insider. I must admit I, too, am greatly anticipating his Robin Hood (due May 2010) and have hopes for him again in a more Gladiatoresque role. I think the studios have come to that realization, too, and are promoting it more along those lines.
Jo
Comment by Jo — May 7, 2009 @ 6:54 am