“I Coulda Been A Contender…” The 20 Best Marlon Brando Movies
Marlon Brando, widely regarded as one of the greatest film actors of all time, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From his smoldering intensity in “A Streetcar Named Desire” to his iconic role in “The Godfather,” Brando’s performances have become the stuff of legend. Here are 20 Marlon Brando films that showcase the actor’s incredible range and magnetic screen presence.
1.The Godfather (1972) – As Vito Corleone, Brando gave us an unforgettable portrayal of a mafia patriarch.
2.A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) – His raw, visceral performance as Stanley Kowalski is often cited as a milestone in acting.
3.On the Waterfront (1954) – Playing Terry Malloy, he delivered one of his most famous lines: “I coulda been a contender.”
4.Apocalypse Now (1979) – As Colonel Kurtz, Brando embodied the haunting horrors of war.
5.Last Tango in Paris (1972) – This film pushed boundaries with Brando’s emotionally charged performance.
6.Viva Zapata! (1952) – Portraying Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata, Brando showcased his ability to immerse himself in diverse roles.
7.Julius Caesar (1953) – His rendition of Mark Antony is considered a high point in cinematic Shakespeare adaptations.
8.The Wild One (1953) – As Johnny Strabler, he became an emblematic figure of rebellion.
9.Sayonara (1957) – Brando showed his softer side in this moving romantic drama.
10.The Men (1950) – In his debut film, he plays a paralyzed war veteran struggling to readjust to civilian life.
11.Mutiny on the Bounty (1962) – Taking on Fletcher Christian, he led one of history’s most famous mutinies onscreen.
12.Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967) – His role as Major Weldon Penderton explored complex themes of desire and repression.
13.The Chase (1966) – He starred as Sheriff Calder, caught up in the tensions of a small Texas town.
14.Morituri (1965) – A wartime thriller featuring Brando as an anti-Nazi saboteur.
15.One-Eyed Jacks (1961) – The only film directed by Brando himself, where he also played the lead role.
16.Don Juan DeMarco (1995) – In this late career film, he plays a psychiatrist treating a young man who believes he is Don Juan.
17.Guys and Dolls (1955) – Showcasing his singing abilities, Brando starred as Sky Masterson in this musical classic.
18.The Ugly American (1963) – His portrayal of Ambassador Harrison MacWhite was critically acclaimed for shedding light on American foreign policy issues.
19.Burn! (Queimada) (1969) – Set against the backdrop of political revolution, Brando plays Sir William Walker, a British agent.
20.The Freshman (1990) – In this comedy, he lampoons his Godfather persona to delightful effect.
Marlon Brando’s career spans over an array of genres and characters that continues to influence actors and filmmakers to this day. Whether portraying deeply flawed individuals or towering figures of power, Brando brought depth and humanity to every role he played—truly making him one of cinema’s best contenders.