15 Most Underrated Movies by Richard Harris

Richard Harris was a talented Irish actor with a career spanning six decades. Best known for his role as Dumbledore in the first two ‘Harry Potter’ films, he brought depth to every character he played, from gritty dramas to epic adventures. However, many of his films never got the recognition they deserved. This list highlights 15 of his most underrated movies that showcase his versatility and powerful performances.

These films range from intense character studies to sweeping historical epics, often overlooked in favor of his more famous roles. Whether he was playing a troubled athlete or a vengeful survivor, Harris always delivered. Let’s dive into these hidden gems of his filmography.

The Molly Maguires (1970)

In ‘The Molly Maguires,’ Harris plays James McParland, a detective infiltrating a secret group of Irish-American miners fighting for better working conditions. His performance captures the moral conflict of a man torn between duty and sympathy for the miners’ cause. The film’s gritty realism and focus on labor struggles make it a compelling watch.

Despite its strong cast, including Sean Connery, the movie flopped at the box office. Critics at the time didn’t fully appreciate its nuanced take on class and betrayal, but it’s since gained a cult following for its historical depth and Harris’s subtle acting.

Man in the Wilderness (1971)

Harris stars as Zachary Bass in ‘Man in the Wilderness,’ a survival tale based on the real-life ordeal of Hugh Glass. Left for dead after a bear attack, Bass fights to survive and seek revenge on those who abandoned him. Harris conveys raw emotion with minimal dialogue, making the character’s journey gripping.

The film’s stark portrayal of survival and its focus on human resilience didn’t attract big audiences initially. However, its intense atmosphere and Harris’s powerful performance have earned it praise as a cult classic among Western fans.

The Deadly Trackers (1973)

In ‘The Deadly Trackers,’ Harris plays Sean Kilpatrick, a sheriff hunting bandits in a violent Western. His portrayal blends determination with a touch of vulnerability, showing a man driven by justice but haunted by loss. The film’s fast-paced action keeps viewers engaged.

Production troubles and a troubled release hurt its initial reception. Despite this, Harris’s commanding presence and the film’s gritty tone make it a hidden gem for fans of 1970s Westerns.

Juggernaut (1974)

‘Juggernaut’ features Harris as Lieutenant Commander Anthony Fallon, a bomb disposal expert tasked with defusing explosives on a hijacked cruise ship. His cool-headed intensity drives the film’s suspense, making every moment tense. The all-star cast, including Omar Sharif, adds to the drama.

The movie was overshadowed by other disaster films of the era, like ‘The Towering Inferno.’ Its tight pacing and Harris’s standout performance make it a thrilling, underappreciated entry in the genre.

99 and 44/100% Dead (1974)

Harris plays Harry Crown in ’99 and 44/100% Dead,’ a quirky crime thriller about a hitman caught in a gang war. His charismatic, tough-guy role adds charm to the film’s offbeat tone. The mix of action and dark humor is unique for its time.

The film’s unusual style confused audiences and critics, leading to poor box office results. Still, Harris’s engaging performance and the movie’s bold creativity make it worth revisiting for fans of unconventional crime stories.

Robin and Marian (1976)

In ‘Robin and Marian,’ Harris plays King Richard the Lionheart, a supporting role alongside Sean Connery’s Robin Hood. His commanding presence as the aging king adds depth to the film’s bittersweet take on the classic legend. The story focuses on love and mortality, with Harris shining in key scenes.

The film’s melancholic tone didn’t resonate with audiences expecting a traditional adventure. Its emotional depth and Harris’s nuanced performance have since earned it a loyal following among cinephiles.

Orca (1977)

Harris stars as Captain Nolan in ‘Orca: The Killer Whale,’ a thriller about a fisherman hunted by a vengeful orca after killing its mate. His portrayal of guilt and desperation elevates the film beyond its B-movie premise. The intense man-versus-nature conflict keeps viewers hooked.

Dismissed as a ‘Jaws’ knockoff, the film was panned by critics and ignored by audiences. Harris’s heartfelt performance and the movie’s surprising emotional weight make it a cult favorite today.

The Wild Geese (1978)

In ‘The Wild Geese,’ Harris plays Captain Rafer Janders, a mercenary on a mission to rescue an African leader. His performance blends toughness with a fatherly warmth, adding heart to the action-packed story. The film’s ensemble cast, including Roger Moore, delivers high-energy thrills.

The movie’s political undertones and violent content stirred controversy, limiting its mainstream success. Harris’s layered performance and the film’s bold action sequences make it a standout in the war-adventure genre.

Tarzan the Ape Man (1981)

Harris plays James Parker in ‘Tarzan, the Ape Man,’ a reimagining of the classic story focusing on Jane’s perspective. His role as Jane’s adventurous father is both commanding and tender, grounding the film’s exotic setting. The lush visuals complement his larger-than-life presence.

The film was criticized for its campy tone and overshadowed by other adventure films of the era. Harris’s charismatic performance makes it an entertaining, if flawed, watch for fans of classic adventure tales.

Triumphs of a Man Called Horse (1983)

In ‘Triumphs of a Man Called Horse,’ Harris reprises his role as John Morgan, an Englishman living among Native Americans. His performance captures the character’s struggle to bridge two worlds, adding depth to the action-driven plot. The film explores themes of cultural identity.

As a second sequel, it received little attention compared to the original ‘A Man Called Horse.’ Harris’s committed performance and the film’s focus on Native American culture make it a worthy, underseen chapter.

The Field (1990)

Harris delivers a powerhouse performance as Bull McCabe in ‘The Field,’ a farmer obsessed with keeping his family’s land. His intense portrayal of pride and desperation earned him an Oscar nomination. The film’s tragic story grips viewers from start to finish.

Despite critical praise, the movie’s heavy themes and Irish setting limited its mainstream appeal. Harris’s unforgettable performance makes it a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas.

Patriot Games (1992)

In ‘Patriot Games,’ Harris plays Paddy O’Neil, an Irish nationalist with complex motives. His brief but impactful role adds tension to the thriller, starring Harrison Ford. Harris’s ability to convey menace and charm shines through in every scene.

The film’s focus on Ford’s Jack Ryan overshadowed Harris’s supporting role. His nuanced performance elevates the political intrigue, making it a standout in the action-thriller genre.

Wrestling Ernest Hemingway (1993)

Harris stars as Frank in ‘Wrestling Ernest Hemingway,’ a retired sailor forming an unlikely friendship with a lonely barber. His heartfelt performance captures the character’s gruff exterior and inner vulnerability. The film’s quiet, emotional story resonates deeply.

The movie’s low-key release and lack of action kept it under the radar. Harris’s chemistry with co-star Robert Duvall makes it a touching, overlooked gem in his career.

Cry, the Beloved Country (1995)

In ‘Cry, the Beloved Country,’ Harris plays James Jarvis, a landowner confronting racial tensions in South Africa. His performance is subtle yet powerful, showing a man’s transformation through grief and understanding. The film’s emotional weight is unforgettable.

Despite critical acclaim, its heavy themes and limited release kept it from wide audiences. Harris’s nuanced role makes it a compelling watch for those interested in social dramas.

The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)

Harris plays Abbé Faria in ‘The Count of Monte Cristo,’ a wise prisoner aiding Edmond Dantès’s escape and revenge. His heartfelt performance adds depth to the swashbuckling adventure. The film’s classic storytelling captivates from beginning to end.

While well-received, it was overshadowed by bigger blockbusters of the time. Harris’s pivotal role and the movie’s thrilling narrative make it a timeless, underappreciated adaptation.

What’s your favorite underrated Richard Harris movie? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know which hidden gem deserves more love!