James Earl Jones, with his booming voice and commanding presence, has left an indelible mark on the film industry. From regal kings to fearsome villains, his versatile talent has made him a household name across generations. As a tribute to his extraordinary career, we take a look back at the top 10 favorite James Earl Jones movies—films that highlight the range, depth, and sheer power of his acting.

1. The Lion King (1994)

Overview: James Earl Jones’ portrayal of Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King is iconic. His powerful voice gives life to the wise and noble lion king, delivering lines that have become part of cinematic history. The father-son bond between Mufasa and Simba resonates with viewers, making this role a cherished one in his filmography.

2. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

Overview: Perhaps no other role defines Jones more than his vocal portrayal of Darth Vader in Star Wars. His deep, menacing voice made Darth Vader one of the most feared and beloved villains in movie history. Though he was never physically on screen, his contribution to Star Wars is unforgettable.

3. Coming to America (1988)

Overview: In this beloved comedy, James Earl Jones plays King Jaffe Joffer, the proud and slightly intimidating father of Eddie Murphy’s Prince Akeem. His regal demeanor and comedic timing add a layer of humor and heart to this fish-out-of-water tale.

4. Field of Dreams (1989)

Overview: In Field of Dreams, James Earl Jones plays Terence Mann, a reclusive writer who delivers one of the most memorable monologues about baseball ever written. His performance, full of grace and wisdom, elevates the film to new emotional heights.

5. The Hunt for Red October (1990)

Overview: Jones’ portrayal of Admiral James Greer in this Cold War thriller cemented his status as a versatile actor. His calm and authoritative presence contrasts perfectly with the tension of the naval conflict, making his performance unforgettable.

6. Patriot Games (1992)

Overview: Reprising his role as Admiral Greer, Jones stars alongside Harrison Ford in this political thriller. His calm leadership and wisdom guide Ford’s Jack Ryan through a maze of political intrigue and danger.

7. The Great White Hope (1970)

Overview: Based on the true story of boxer Jack Johnson, The Great White Hope showcases Jones in one of his earliest and most powerful roles as Jack Jefferson. His portrayal earned him an Oscar nomination and solidified his place as a serious dramatic actor.

8. Conan the Barbarian (1982)

Overview: In Conan the Barbarian, Jones plays Thulsa Doom, the fearsome villain who faces off against Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Conan. His transformation from a charismatic cult leader to a ruthless sorcerer is chilling, adding depth to this fantasy epic.

9. Cry, the Beloved Country (1995)

Overview: In this powerful drama, Jones portrays Reverend Stephen Kumalo, a man searching for his son during the turbulent apartheid years in South Africa. His performance is deeply emotional and human, highlighting the pain and resilience of those living through apartheid.

10. Matewan (1987)

Overview: Set during the 1920s coal miner strikes, Matewan sees Jones playing a labor leader advocating for the rights of workers. His portrayal adds a sense of dignity and strength to this historical drama about the fight for justice.

2024 has been an emotional rollercoaster for moviegoers. Whether it’s the power of love, devastating loss, or the triumph of the human spirit, films this year have brought plenty of tears. From heart-wrenching dramas to unexpected moments of sadness in blockbusters, these are the top 10 movies in theaters this year that made us cry.

1. Oppenheimer

Overview: Christopher Nolan’s biographical drama about J. Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb, leaves viewers reflecting on the weight of history and the moral dilemmas faced by the man who changed the world forever. The movie’s emotional depth builds as Oppenheimer grapples with guilt and the consequences of his creation.

Why It Made Us Cry: The intense portrayal of Oppenheimer’s inner turmoil and the devastating effects of the atomic bomb hit hard, leaving the audience grappling with the emotional fallout of war and ethics.

2. Past Lives

Overview: Past Lives is a moving story about two childhood friends who reconnect after years apart, exploring the ideas of fate, love, and missed opportunities. The film’s subtle storytelling and emotional resonance leave a lasting impact.

Why It Made Us Cry: The deep emotional connection between the characters and the bittersweet nature of their relationship, filled with “what ifs,” pulls at the heartstrings.

3. A Good Person

Overview: Directed by Zach Braff, A Good Person features Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman in an emotional exploration of grief, forgiveness, and healing. Pugh’s character navigates the aftermath of a tragic accident that upends her life.

Why It Made Us Cry: The raw performances and the movie’s powerful themes of loss and redemption create intense, tear-jerking moments.

4. The Whale

Overview: Brendan Fraser’s transformative performance in The Whale as a reclusive man struggling with obesity and seeking to reconnect with his estranged daughter is devastating and heart-rending.

Why It Made Us Cry: The portrayal of Fraser’s character’s desperation for redemption, along with his physical and emotional suffering, brings an overwhelming wave of sadness.

5. The Color Purple (2024)

Overview: The 2024 musical adaptation of The Color Purple revisits Alice Walker’s powerful story of resilience, love, and sisterhood. The film, directed by Blitz Bazawule, beautifully captures the emotional highs and lows of the characters’ lives.

Why It Made Us Cry: The film’s exploration of trauma, perseverance, and family bonds, paired with soul-stirring performances, evokes tears from beginning to end.

6. The Last Voyage of the Demeter

Overview: While The Last Voyage of the Demeter might seem like a horror film on the surface, its depiction of isolation, fear, and tragedy aboard a doomed ship draws out surprising emotional depth.

Why It Made Us Cry: The haunting story of loss and survival, combined with the eerie atmosphere, gives viewers moments of intense sorrow amid the terror.

7. Barbie (2024)

Overview: Greta Gerwig’s Barbie may be filled with fun and laughter, but it also packs an unexpected emotional punch. The film touches on themes of self-acceptance, identity, and the complexities of womanhood in a patriarchal world.

Why It Made Us Cry: Underneath the vibrant colors and witty humor, Barbie delivers poignant moments about finding one’s true self and the bittersweet experience of growing up.

8. Maestro (2024)

Overview: Maestro is a biopic about legendary composer Leonard Bernstein, played by Bradley Cooper. This film delves into Bernstein’s personal and professional struggles, particularly his complicated relationships and his pursuit of artistic perfection.

Why It Made Us Cry: Cooper’s portrayal of Bernstein’s emotional vulnerabilities and his strained marriage with Felicia Montealegre (played by Carey Mulligan) hits all the right notes, delivering heart-wrenching moments of love, regret, and loss.

9. All of Us Strangers (2024)

Overview: All of Us Strangers is a surreal drama that tackles themes of love, memory, and loss. The film, starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, takes viewers on an emotional journey as a man reconnects with his long-lost parents in a haunting and unexpected way.

Why It Made Us Cry: The film’s exploration of grief and longing for connection strikes deep emotional chords, creating moments that stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

10. The Boy and the Heron (2024)

Overview: This animated masterpiece from Studio Ghibli is a coming-of-age story set in a fantastical world, directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. It weaves themes of grief, growing up, and learning to move forward after loss.

Why It Made Us Cry: Studio Ghibli’s signature mix of whimsy and emotional depth is on full display, as the film tenderly explores the complex emotions of growing up and

Hugh Jackman is a true Hollywood icon, known for his versatility, charm, and dedication to his craft. From musicals to gritty dramas and superhero blockbusters, Jackman has consistently delivered captivating performances across a wide variety of genres. As a fan of this multi-talented actor, it’s hard to pick just a few favorites, but these are the top 5 Hugh Jackman performances that stand out as some of his best work on both the big and small screens.

1. Logan (2017)

Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men series is arguably his most iconic role, and Logan serves as the ultimate farewell to this beloved character. In this critically acclaimed film, Jackman delivers a raw and emotional performance as an aging, weary Logan, grappling with his past and protecting a young mutant, Laura. The film presents a more vulnerable and human side of Wolverine, and Jackman’s nuanced acting makes Logan a standout superhero drama.

2. The Greatest Showman (2017)

In The Greatest Showman, Jackman shines as P.T. Barnum, the ambitious and charismatic showman who creates the iconic Barnum & Bailey Circus. The film, a vibrant musical filled with show-stopping numbers, is a testament to Jackman’s singing and dancing skills. His energetic and magnetic performance captivates audiences, and his ability to convey both Barnum’s dreams and flaws adds depth to the character.

3. Les Misérables (2012)

Hugh Jackman took on one of his most challenging roles in Les Misérables, playing the iconic character Jean Valjean. His portrayal of Valjean, a former convict who seeks redemption, is both powerful and deeply emotional. Jackman’s vocal performance, combined with his ability to embody Valjean’s inner turmoil, earned him an Academy Award nomination and further solidified his reputation as a multi-talented performer.

4. Prisoners (2013)

In Prisoners, Jackman delivers a gripping performance as Keller Dover, a father desperately searching for his missing daughter. The film, directed by Denis Villeneuve, is a dark and intense thriller that showcases Jackman’s range as an actor. His portrayal of a man pushed to his limits, willing to go to extreme lengths to find his child, is both heartbreaking and terrifying. Jackman’s intensity in Prisoners is one of the highlights of his dramatic career.

5. The Prestige (2006)

In The Prestige, a psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan, Hugh Jackman stars as Robert Angier, a magician locked in a dangerous rivalry with another illusionist, played by Christian Bale. Jackman masterfully portrays Angier’s obsession with fame, revenge, and perfection, creating a character who is both sympathetic and deeply flawed. His performance adds depth to this complex film, which keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

Honorable Mentions

Though these five performances are among Hugh Jackman’s best, there are plenty of other notable roles that deserve mention. His work as Wolverine throughout the X-Men series, his voice acting in Rise of the Guardians, and his charming turn in Kate & Leopold all showcase the diversity of his acting abilities.

Hugh Jackman’s acting career is marked by a remarkable range of performances, from emotional dramas to blockbuster superhero roles. His commitment to each character, whether it’s a gritty, intense role in Prisoners or a charismatic musical lead in The Greatest Showman, has made him one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. Fans of Jackman can look forward to more incredible performances as he continues to take on new and exciting projects.