Nicolas Cage is an actor known for his intense and unique performances. Often meme-ified for his over-the-top moments, Cage has nevertheless secured a place in cinematic history, delivering some unforgettable roles in a wide array of genres. From comedy to action, drama to fantasy, he’s done it all. Here are the 14 best Nicolas Cage movies, ranked from great to greatest.

1.”The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” (2010)

Taking on the role of a modern-day sorcerer, Cage brings magic to life in this action-packed family film inspired by the Fantasia segment of the same name.

2.”Gone in Sixty Seconds” (2000)

Cage’s portrayal of a retired master car thief forced back into the game is both thrilling and charismatic, ensuring this action flick’s place in car culture history.

3.”Raising Arizona” (2002)

One of the early Coen Brothers films, this comedy crime movie showcases Cage’s knack for eccentric characters as he plays an ex-con who turns to kidnapping.

4.”National Treasure” (2004)

Cage stars as a historian and cryptologist searching for hidden treasure in this adventure that combines history with heart-pounding action.

5.”Kick-Ass” (2010)

In this black comedy superhero film, Cage plays Big Daddy, a former cop who trains his daughter to be a ruthless vigilante.

6.”Red Rock West” (1993)

A neo-noir thriller that features Cage as a drifter caught up in a deadly game of mistaken identity—it’s a deftly executed tale of suspense and fate.

7.”Matchstick Men” (2003)

Cage shines as a con artist with obsessive-compulsive disorder in this crime comedy-drama that explores themes of fatherhood and redemption.

8.”Adaptation” (2002)

Doubling down on his talent, Cage plays twin brothers with contrasting personalities in this meta-comedy-drama about writing and life’s complexities.

9.”Leaving Las Vegas” (1995)

In one of his most haunting roles, Cage portrays an alcoholic screenwriter who forms an unusual relationship with a prostitute—a performance that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

10.”Face/Off” (1997)

John Woo’s high-octane thriller features Cage in dual roles—as both hero and villain—showcasing his ability to swing between instability and subtlety with ease.

11.”Moonstruck” (1987)

In this romantic comedy, Cage plays an impassioned baker who falls for his brother’s fiancée; it’s a performance filled with humor and heartache.

12.”The Rock” (1996)

In this action classic, Cage steps into the shoes of an FBI chemist who teams up with Sean Connery to stop a rogue military group from launching chemical weapons.

13.”Lord of War” (2005)

Delving into the world of arms dealing, Cage portrays an opportunistic merchant navigating the ethical quicksand of his trade—it’s a thought-provoking film featuring one of his most compelling performances.

14.”Con Air” (1997)

Topping the list is “Con Air”, where Cage embodies an unjustly convicted man caught amidst airborne convicts taking over their transport plane—it’s action-packed and has become emblematic of 90s action cinema.

Nicolas Cage has proven his range and tenacity across these films, earning both critical acclaim and fan admiration throughout his career—with performances ranging from unhinged to understated, one thing is for sure: there’s only one Nicolas Cage.