Tom Hanks is one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. He has earned multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and a slew of other awards and nominations for his impressive performances over the years. From romantic comedies to intense dramas, Hanks has tackled a wide range of characters. So spending a movie night watching the Best Tom Hanks Movies Ranked is guaranteed to be a hit.
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks has been wowing audiences for over thirty-five years. He has received critical acclaim for his many memorable performances in a wide range of genres, earning two Academy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and many more awards and nominations. Hanks is well-known for his ability to embody any character, whether it’s the lovable hero, the hard-working father, or the naughty villain. It’s no surprise that Hanks’ films continue to be popular to this day.
The Best Tom Hanks Movies Ranked
- Forrest Gump
Forrest Gump follows the life of the titular character (Hanks) as he sails through life with optimism and humor. The film follows him through several decades, from childhood through adulthood, and his journey is truly unforgettable. Hanks’ performance is touching, funny, and immensely charming, and earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, as well as a Golden Globe for Best Actor.
- The Green Mile
The Green Mile stars Tom Hanks as Paul Edgecomb, an inmate superintendent who finds himself in charge of an inmate on death row, who seems to possess mysterious healing powers. Hanks’ performance is masterful in this emotional drama, and it earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, as well as a Golden Globe Award nomination.
- Captain Phillips
Captain Phillips follows the captain of a cargo ship, who is taken hostage by Somali pirates. Hanks wonderfully inhabits the role of the captain, portraying a man trying to survive in dire circumstances with poise and determination. Hanks’ performance was critically acclaimed and earned him a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
- Sleepless in Seattle
Sleepless in Seattle is a classic romantic comedy, starring Hanks as Sam Baldwin, a recently widowed father who moves from Chicago to Seattle in search of a new beginning with his son. Hanks effortlessly plays the role of a man in love while also trying to look out for his son, Zach. The film earned both critical and popular success, and Hanks was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor.
- Saving Private Ryan
Saving Private Ryan tells the story of a group of soldiers during World War II who are sent to rescue Private Ryan (Matt Damon), the last surviving brother of four. Hanks stars as Captain John Miller, who leads the men in their mission to find Private Ryan. Hanks’ performance is moving and captivating, and he earned a Golden Globe and Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his work.
- Big
Big stars Hanks as Josh Baskin, a young boy who makes a wish to become “big” and wakes up the next morning aged up to adulthood. The film follows his journey as he tries to find his place in the world, with the help of his best friend. Hanks’ performance is incredibly charming and he earned a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
- Philadelphia
Philadelphia tells the story of lawyer Andrew Beckett (Hanks), a homosexual man who sues his law firm after being fired due to his AIDS diagnosis. Hanks gives an astonishing performance, turning in an unforgettable portrayal of someone suffering but refusing to fall into despair. Hanks won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for this role.
- Cast Away
In Cast Away, Hanks stars as Chuck Noland, a man who finds himself stranded on an island after a plane crash. The film follows Noland’s journey of survival and eventual return home, and Hanks’ performance is undeniably powerful. Hanks was nominated for Academy Award and Golden Globe awards for this performance.
- Toy Story
Toy Story is an animated family film about toys that come to life, and Hanks voices Woody, the leader of the toy gang. Hanks’ vocal work is as entertaining and heartwarming as his live action performances, and it earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor in an Animated Feature Film.
- Apollo 13
Apollo 13 stars Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, who is tasked with commanding the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission. Despite facing an incredibly difficult situation, Lovell must remain calm and collected to bring the astronauts back safely. Hanks succeeds in his portrayal of Lovell and was nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Tom Hanks has consistently wowed audiences with his willingness to take on any character. From exuberant comedies to intense dramas, Hanks’ performances have continued to bring joy to moviegoers everywhere. If you’re looking for the perfect movie night experience, make sure to check out the Best Tom Hanks Movies Ranked!
