15 Best One-Man (or One-Woman) Films

Some movies thrive on epic battles or sprawling casts, but others prove a single actor can hold an audience spellbound. These one-man or one-woman films showcase the magic of a lone performer, delivering stories that grip you through sheer force of talent.

From tales of raw survival to deep dives into a single character’s mind, these films put actors in the spotlight, often isolated or with little else to carry the narrative. Here’s a list of 15 unforgettable one-person films that celebrate the power of a solo act.

15. Buried (2010)

Ryan Reynolds plays a man trapped in a coffin, armed only with a phone and lighter. His panic and ingenuity fuel this heart-pounding thriller.

The film stays inside the box, making Reynolds’ raw emotion the pulse of the story. It’s a testament to his ability to carry a film alone in.

14. The Shallows (2016)

Blake Lively is a surfer trapped on a rock, outsmarting a relentless shark. Her mix of fear and cleverness keeps the tension alive.

Lively’s physicality and emotional depth turn a simple setup into a riveting ride. The ocean’s vastness makes her fight feel massive.

13. All Is Lost (2013)

Robert Redford is a lone sailor battling a brutal sea after his boat fails. With barely any words, his weathered face tells a story of defiance.

Redford’s quiet grit anchors this minimalist survival tale. The film’s stormy seas feel alive through his silent, powerful presence.

12. 127 Hours (2010)

James Franco portrays a trapped hiker facing a life-or-death choice in a canyon. His real-life story blends desperation with hope.

Franco’s charm and intensity make every moment pulse with stakes. The tight setting turns his performance into a gripping showcase.

11. Moon (2009)

Sam Rockwell plays a solitary worker on a lunar base, unraveling a chilling secret. His layered act mixes humor with haunting loneliness.

Rockwell’s charisma carries the sci-fi plot, making it feel deeply human. The film’s twists amplify his standout solo work.

10. Wild (2014)

Reese Witherspoon stars as a woman hiking alone to rebuild her life. Her raw journey through grief and growth is deeply moving.

Witherspoon’s vulnerability shines against the rugged trails. The landscapes mirror her inner strength, making her act unforgettable.

9. Gravity (2013)

Sandra Bullock is an astronaut lost in space, fighting to survive. Her blend of fear and resolve drives this heart-pounding drama.

Bullock’s emotional range fills the void of space with humanity. The film’s stunning visuals elevate her gripping performance.

8. Locke (2013)

Tom Hardy plays a man whose life unravels during a car drive, told through phone calls. His calm voice hides a storm of conflict.

Hardy turns the car into a stage, his subtle acting carrying the real-time story. The film’s tight focus makes his work shine.

7. The Martian (2015)

Matt Damon is an astronaut stranded on Mars, surviving with wit and science. His humor and grit make the film a thrilling joy.

Damon’s charm lights up the barren planet, balancing stakes with levity. His solo act is a masterclass in captivating storytelling.

6. Room (2015)

Brie Larson stars as a captive mother protecting her son in a tiny space. Her fierce love and pain anchor this emotional tale.

Larson’s raw intensity and bond with her on-screen son grip you. The cramped setting makes her Oscar-winning act even bigger.

5. I Am Legend (2007)

Will Smith is a lone scientist in a ruined city, seeking a cure. His bond with his dog adds warmth to the eerie world.

Smith’s mix of hope and heartbreak makes the desolation feel real. His commanding presence carries the film’s weight.

4. Cast Away (2000)

Tom Hanks plays a man stranded on an island, transforming through years of isolation. His raw journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Hanks’ physical change and emotional depth, especially with a volleyball pal, make this iconic. His act is pure cinematic magic.

3. Misery (1990)

Kathy Bates is a terrifying fan holding a writer hostage. Her chilling mix of obsession and rage earned her an Oscar.

Bates owns every scene, turning a small space into a house of horror. Her unpredictable energy keeps you on edge.

2. The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)

Maria Falconetti plays Joan of Arc, facing her trial with unshakable faith. Her silent, expressive face is a cinematic legend.

Falconetti’s raw emotion in close-ups makes this a timeless masterpiece. The film’s focus on her spirit feels eternal.

1. Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles (1975)

Delphine Seyrig portrays a widow whose daily routines hide a quiet unraveling. Her subtle act is mesmerizing and profound.

Seyrig’s performance in long, mundane scenes builds a haunting portrait. The film’s patience makes her work a quiet triumph.

Which solo film blew you away, or did I skip a must-see? Share your picks in the comments!