Liam Neeson’s Top 13 Films: From Action Thrillers to Emotional Dramas

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Liam Neeson, one of Hollywood’s most prolific actors, has built a career spanning decades with a mix of action-packed thrillers, historical dramas, and emotional performances. From his iconic role in “Schindler’s List” to his recent action-packed ventures, Neeson’s filmography offers a diverse range of roles that showcase his versatility.

Neeson’s career took a dramatic turn after the tragic death of his wife, Natasha Richardson, in 2009. Since then, he has ramped up his already busy schedule, starring in 11 films in the 2020s alone, with five more in the pipeline. His performances often carry a sense of guilt, regret, and grief, adding depth to even his most action-oriented roles.

Here are 13 of Liam Neeson’s best films, ranked for both their overall quality and the strength of his performances:

13. Kinsey (2004) — Neeson portrays famed sex researcher Alfred Kinsey in this biopic directed by Bill Condon. His nuanced performance highlights his ability to convey sensitivity and authority simultaneously, a skill that later made him an unlikely action hero.

12. Silence (2016) — Directed by Martin Scorsese, this historical drama features Neeson as a Jesuit priest who renounces his faith in Japan. His role, though supporting, is pivotal to the film’s exploration of faith and sacrifice.

11. Rob Roy (1995) — Neeson stars as the titular Scottish hero in this historical epic, showcasing his physical prowess in one of cinema’s great sword fights. The film, though overshadowed by “Braveheart,” remains a standout in his career.

10. A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014) — Neeson plays unlicensed private investigator Matt Scudder in this gritty thriller. Despite its box office struggles, the film highlights his ability to portray haunted, complex characters.

9. The Grey (2012) — This survival thriller, directed by Joe Carnahan, features Neeson as a man grappling with personal tragedy while leading a group of plane crash survivors against a pack of wolves. The film is widely regarded as one of his most powerful performances.

7-8. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)/Batman Begins (2005) — Neeson’s roles as Qui-Gon Jinn and Ra’s al Ghul cemented his status as a wise mentor figure in blockbuster cinema. His performances added depth to both franchises.

3-6. Unknown (2011)/Non-Stop (2014)/Run All Night (2015)/The Commuter (2018) — These four collaborations with director Jaume Collet-Serra showcase Neeson’s talent for Hitchcockian thrillers. Each film places his flawed characters in high-stakes situations, blending action with emotional depth.

2. Darkman (1990) — Directed by Sam Raimi, this cult classic features Neeson as a disfigured scientist seeking revenge. His performance is both intense and darkly humorous, perfectly suited to Raimi’s unique style.

1. Schindler’s List (1993) — Steven Spielberg‘s Holocaust drama remains Neeson’s most iconic role. As Oskar Schindler, he delivers a career-defining performance, blending charisma with profound emotional depth.

Neeson’s ability to balance action, drama, and historical roles has made him a beloved figure in cinema. Whether he’s battling wolves in “The Grey” or grappling with moral dilemmas in “Schindler’s List,” his performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.