Brad Pitt’s Career: From ‘Hunk’ to ‘F1’

Brad Pitt is one of the most famous movie stars in the world. He first became known for his good looks and charisma, quickly rising to the status of a Hollywood leading man. His early roles established him as a major talent, but he consistently worked to challenge audience expectations, taking on unconventional and complex characters that went against his heartthrob image.

Over the decades, Pitt has evolved from a movie star into a highly respected actor and one of the most influential producers in the industry. Through his production company, Plan B Entertainment, he has championed unique and important films. As an actor, he has built a diverse and impressive filmography, working with acclaimed directors and delivering performances that are layered, memorable, and often surprisingly funny.

‘Hunk’ (1987)

Brad Pitt’s acting career began with several uncredited background roles, including one in the comedy film ‘Hunk.’ The movie tells the story of a nerdy computer programmer who makes a deal with the devil to be transformed into a handsome and muscular man named Hunk. The film is a lighthearted and silly take on the Faustian legend, set in the sunny beach communities of California.

In ‘Hunk,’ Pitt can be spotted very briefly as an extra. His official role is listed as “Man at beach with drink,” and he appears in the background during a beach scene. These small, uncredited parts were how many young actors got their start, gaining experience and their first exposure to a professional film set before landing more substantial roles.

‘No Man’s Land’ (1987)

Continuing his work as an extra, Brad Pitt appeared in the crime thriller ‘No Man’s Land.’ The film stars Charlie Sheen as an undercover cop who infiltrates a high-end car theft ring led by a wealthy and charismatic young man. The story is a classic tale of a police officer who gets in too deep and finds his loyalties tested.

Pitt appears in the background of a party scene, credited only as a “Waiter.” Like his other early uncredited work, this role was a stepping stone in his career. It placed him on the set of a major Hollywood production, allowing him to observe established actors and learn more about the filmmaking process.

‘Less Than Zero’ (1987)

‘Less Than Zero’ is a drama based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis that explores the dark and excessive lives of wealthy, disaffected young people in Los Angeles. The film stars Andrew McCarthy, Jami Gertz, and Robert Downey Jr. in one of his most powerful early performances. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction and the emptiness of a life without purpose.

Brad Pitt can be seen in the background of this film as a “Partygoer.” In one notable scene, he appears as a “Preppie guy at fight,” watching a confrontation unfold. This small part placed him in a significant film that captured the zeitgeist of the late 1980s and featured many other rising young stars.

‘No Way Out’ (1987)

In the political thriller ‘No Way Out,’ starring Kevin Costner and Gene Hackman, Brad Pitt had another uncredited role. The film is a tense story about a Navy officer who begins a relationship with a woman who is also the mistress of the Secretary of Defense. When she is found murdered, he is assigned to investigate the case, which is actually a cover-up he is meant to lead.

Pitt makes a fleeting appearance as a “Party guest” during a scene at a political function. This role was another small but important step in his early career, giving him experience on the set of a major, critically acclaimed thriller. It was the last of his uncredited background roles before he moved on to speaking parts.

‘The Dark Side of the Sun’ (1988)

One of Brad Pitt’s earliest leading roles was in ‘The Dark Side of the Sun,’ an American-Yugoslavian drama. He plays Rick, a young American man with a rare skin disease that makes him extremely sensitive to sunlight. To protect himself, he must constantly wear a full leather suit, including a mask. He travels to Yugoslavia to seek a cure, where he falls in love and decides to risk his life for a few days in the sun with her.

The film was shot in 1988 but its release was delayed for nearly a decade due to the outbreak of the Croatian War of Independence. By the time it was finally released, Pitt was already a major international star. The movie offers a fascinating glimpse of the young actor in one of his first starring roles, showcasing his early potential as a romantic lead.

‘Happy Together’ (1989)

‘Happy Together’ is a romantic comedy where Brad Pitt has a small supporting role. The film follows a college freshman who is a talented writer and a free-spirited young woman who is a campus Casanova. A computer error mistakenly assigns them to the same dorm room, leading to a series of comedic situations and an unlikely romance.

Pitt plays Brian, the girl’s jealous and possessive boyfriend. Although his screen time is limited, the role was part of his early work in Hollywood before he became a household name. He plays the typical college jock character in this lighthearted campus comedy.

‘Cutting Class’ (1989)

In the horror-comedy ‘Cutting Class,’ Brad Pitt landed one of his first major roles. He plays Dwight Ingalls, a popular high school jock and the boyfriend of the film’s main female character. The story revolves around a series of murders that begin to happen at their high school after a mentally disturbed student is released from an institution.

‘Cutting Class’ is a quirky slasher film that combines elements of horror, comedy, and mystery. Pitt’s performance as the charming basketball star is a standout in the film. It’s a fun and interesting look at the future superstar in a very different kind of genre movie early in his career.

‘Across the Tracks’ (1991)

‘Across the Tracks’ is a drama about two brothers with very different lives. Brad Pitt plays Joe Maloney, a straight-arrow high school track star. His life is complicated when his troubled older brother returns home from reform school and decides to compete against him in an important track meet, creating a tense family rivalry.

The film is an emotional story that showcases Pitt’s early ability to handle dramatic roles. He convincingly portrays the responsible younger brother who is torn between his own ambitions and his loyalty to his family. It is a powerful and well-acted independent film that highlights his emerging talent.

‘Thelma & Louise’ (1991)

Brad Pitt’s role in ‘Thelma & Louise’ was a true star-making moment. Although he is only in a few scenes, his performance as the charming and handsome young drifter, J.D., is unforgettable. He meets the two fugitive women at a motel and has a brief romance with Thelma, teaching her how to rob a store before stealing all of her money.

Pitt’s charisma and charm are on full display, and his scenes with Geena Davis are iconic. The role turned him into an overnight sensation and established his image as a Hollywood sex symbol. Despite the small size of the part, it had a massive impact on his career and is one of his most famous early roles.

‘Johnny Suede’ (1991)

In this quirky independent film, Brad Pitt plays the title character, Johnny Suede. Johnny is a naive and aspiring rock star with an enormous pompadour hairstyle who is obsessed with the look and style of 1950s rock and roll. He wanders through a surreal world trying to find love, success, and the perfect pair of black suede shoes.

The role was a complete departure from his part in ‘Thelma & Louise’ and showed his desire to take on unconventional and artistic projects. He perfectly captures the character’s goofy charm and earnest cluelessness. The film is a strange and stylish fable about image and identity.

‘Cool World’ (1992)

‘Cool World’ is a fantasy film that combines live-action and animation. Brad Pitt plays Frank Harris, a detective in the “Cool World,” a bizarre animated dimension populated by characters known as “doodles.” He is tasked with preventing humans from having physical relationships with doodles, which would have catastrophic consequences for both worlds.

The film was an ambitious project that put Pitt in a leading role opposite animated characters. He plays the hardboiled detective in a world of surreal and chaotic cartoon logic. While the film received mixed reviews, it was another unique and visually inventive project in his early filmography.

‘A River Runs Through It’ (1992)

Directed by Robert Redford, ‘A River Runs Through It’ is a beautiful and poignant drama about two brothers growing up in rural Montana in the early 20th century. Brad Pitt plays Paul Maclean, the rebellious and charismatic younger brother. The story explores their relationship with each other and their stern minister father, with the art of fly-fishing serving as a central metaphor.

Pitt’s performance as the charming but self-destructive Paul earned him widespread critical acclaim. He perfectly captured the character’s grace, recklessness, and tragic beauty. The film was a major step in his career, proving that he was not just a handsome face but also a gifted dramatic actor.

‘Kalifornia’ (1993)

In the dark and gritty thriller ‘Kalifornia,’ Brad Pitt plays Early Grayce, a violent and menacing serial killer. The story follows a writer and his photographer girlfriend who are traveling cross-country to research a book about serial killers. They unknowingly pick up Early and his girlfriend to share the ride, leading to a terrifying and deadly road trip.

Pitt’s performance is a chilling and transformative one. He is completely unrecognizable as the greasy, uneducated, and unpredictable killer. The role was a bold choice that went directly against his romantic leading man image, and it demonstrated his incredible range and willingness to play dark and unsympathetic characters.

‘True Romance’ (1993)

In the cult classic crime film ‘True Romance,’ Brad Pitt has a small but hilarious supporting role as Floyd. Floyd is the perpetually stoned roommate of a wannabe actor who gets tangled up with the mob. He spends all of his scenes lounging on the couch, watching TV, and offering completely useless information to the gangsters who are looking for his friends.

Despite his very limited screen time, Pitt’s performance is a comedic highlight of the film. His laid-back and spaced-out character provides a moment of levity in a violent and fast-paced story. It is a memorable and perfectly executed comedic cameo.

‘The Favor’ (1994)

‘The Favor’ is a romantic comedy where Brad Pitt plays Elliott Fowler, the handsome artist who is the subject of the main character’s romantic fantasy. The story is about a married woman who, wondering what it would have been like to sleep with her old high school boyfriend, asks her best friend to do it for her as a “favor.”

The film was shot in 1990 but was not released for four years. Pitt plays the romantic ideal, the one who got away, with his signature charm. The movie is a lighthearted exploration of love, marriage, and friendship, with Pitt in a key supporting role.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)

In this lavish adaptation of Anne Rice’s popular novel, Brad Pitt plays Louis de Pointe du Lac, a young plantation owner in the 18th century who is turned into a vampire. The film chronicles his centuries-long life as an immortal, his complex relationship with his maker, Lestat, and his struggle to hold on to his humanity in a world of darkness and bloodlust.

Starring alongside Tom Cruise, Pitt portrays the brooding, sorrowful, and guilt-ridden vampire. His performance captures the character’s deep melancholy and his philosophical torment. The film was a huge box office success and solidified his status as a top-tier Hollywood leading man.

‘Legends of the Fall’ (1994)

‘Legends of the Fall’ is a sweeping romantic epic set in the early 20th-century American West. Brad Pitt stars as Tristan Ludlow, the wild and passionate middle son of a Montana ranching family. The story follows the lives and loves of the three brothers and the woman who comes between them, set against the backdrop of World War I and Prohibition.

Pitt’s portrayal of the rebellious and tormented Tristan is iconic. His rugged and charismatic performance made him a global superstar. The film is a grand and emotional saga of love, loss, and family, and it remains one of his most popular and defining roles.

‘Se7en’ (1995)

In David Fincher’s dark and stylish thriller ‘Seven,’ Brad Pitt plays David Mills, a young and hot-headed detective. He is partnered with a weary, older detective in the last week before his retirement. Together, they hunt a brilliant and sadistic serial killer who is basing his murders on the seven deadly sins.

Pitt gives a compelling performance as the idealistic and impulsive young cop who is unprepared for the true evil he is about to face. The film is a masterpiece of suspense and atmosphere, with a famously shocking and unforgettable ending. It was a critical and commercial smash hit that further proved his dramatic acting chops.

‘Twelve Monkeys’ (1995)

For his role in the mind-bending sci-fi film ’12 Monkeys,’ Brad Pitt earned his first Academy Award nomination. He plays Jeffrey Goines, a wealthy and wildly eccentric mental patient. The story follows a man from a post-apocalyptic future who is sent back in time to gather information about the man-made virus that wiped out most of humanity.

Pitt’s performance is a whirlwind of manic energy, tics, and fast-talking paranoia. He is almost unrecognizable as the unhinged and charismatic leader of an animal rights group. It was a bold and transformative supporting role that showcased his incredible range and comedic timing.

‘Sleepers’ (1996)

‘Sleepers’ is a legal drama with a large ensemble cast. The story is about four childhood friends from Hell’s Kitchen who are sent to a brutal juvenile detention center. Years later, two of them have become gangsters and the other two are a journalist and a prosecutor. Brad Pitt plays Michael Sullivan, the assistant district attorney who is assigned to prosecute his old friends for a revenge killing.

Pitt delivers a strong and understated performance as a man torn between his duty to the law and his loyalty to his friends. He must orchestrate a complex plan to see justice served, both inside and outside the courtroom. The film is a powerful and gripping story of friendship, abuse, and vengeance.

‘The Devil’s Own’ (1997)

In ‘The Devil’s Own,’ Brad Pitt plays Rory Devaney, an IRA terrorist who comes to America under an assumed name. He stays in the home of a New York City police sergeant who has no idea of his guest’s true identity or his mission to buy weapons. The two men form an unlikely friendship, which is ultimately tested by the truth.

Pitt convincingly portrays the character’s charm and his deadly commitment to his cause. The film explores complex themes of loyalty and morality, and the relationship between the two main characters is the heart of the story. The movie is a tense and character-driven thriller.

‘Seven Years in Tibet’ (1997)

Based on a true story, ‘Seven Years in Tibet’ stars Brad Pitt as Heinrich Harrer, a cocky Austrian mountain climber. During World War II, his expedition is interrupted, and he is imprisoned by the British in India. He escapes and makes a long and arduous journey across the Himalayas to the forbidden city of Lhasa in Tibet, where he befriends the young Dalai Lama.

The film is a visually stunning epic about one man’s spiritual and personal transformation. Pitt’s character begins as an arrogant and selfish man and slowly evolves into a humble and compassionate one. The movie is a beautiful and inspiring story of an unlikely friendship that changed a man’s life.

‘Meet Joe Black’ (1998)

In the romantic fantasy ‘Meet Joe Black,’ Brad Pitt plays the personification of Death. Death takes over the body of a young man and makes a deal with a wealthy media mogul: he will delay the man’s death in exchange for a guided tour of life on Earth. Complications arise when “Joe Black” falls in love with the mogul’s daughter.

Pitt plays the dual role of the charming young man and the naive, curious incarnation of Death. He brings a sense of wonder and innocence to the character of Joe Black as he experiences human life for the very first time. The film is a long and contemplative romance about life, love, and mortality.

‘Fight Club’ (1999)

Brad Pitt created one of his most iconic characters in ‘Fight Club’ as the charismatic and anarchic soap salesman, Tyler Durden. He befriends the film’s insomniac narrator and together they start an underground fight club as a form of male therapy. This evolves into a nationwide anti-consumerist movement called Project Mayhem.

Pitt’s performance is the embodiment of cool, rebellious confidence. He is magnetic, dangerous, and hilarious as the larger-than-life alter ego. The film, with its shocking twist ending and sharp social commentary, became a massive cult classic and a defining film of its generation.

‘Snatch’ (2000)

In Guy Ritchie’s stylish and fast-paced crime comedy ‘Snatch,’ Brad Pitt has a scene-stealing role as Mickey O’Neil. Mickey is an “Irish Traveller,” or “Pikey,” who is also an incredibly talented bare-knuckle boxer. He gets involved with a group of small-time boxing promoters and a major crime lord, leading to a series of chaotic and hilarious situations.

Pitt’s performance is a comedic tour de force. He is completely unintelligible, speaking in a thick and authentic accent that he researched for the role. He is both funny and intimidating, creating one of the most memorable characters in a film that is full of them.

‘The Mexican’ (2001)

‘The Mexican’ is a romantic comedy and crime caper that reunites Brad Pitt with Julia Roberts. Pitt plays Jerry Welbach, a low-level mobster whose girlfriend gives him an ultimatum: her or the mob. Before he can quit, he is sent on one last job to Mexico to retrieve a legendary antique pistol known as “The Mexican.”

Pitt showcases his comedic timing and his natural chemistry with his co-star. He plays the well-meaning but hapless Jerry who finds himself in one chaotic situation after another. The film is a quirky and fun adventure about the complicated nature of relationships.

‘Spy Game’ (2001)

‘Spy Game’ is a slick espionage thriller that pairs Brad Pitt with screen legend Robert Redford. Pitt plays Tom Bishop, a young and talented CIA operative. When Bishop is captured on an unauthorized mission in China, his mentor, a veteran agent on his last day before retirement, must use all of his skills and knowledge to rescue him from behind enemy lines.

Pitt is convincing as the sharp and idealistic young spy. The film’s story is told largely through flashbacks, showing the relationship between the two men and the events that led to Bishop’s capture. It is a smart and suspenseful thriller about loyalty and the complex world of intelligence.

‘Ocean’s Eleven’ (2001)

In the stylish and incredibly cool heist film ‘Ocean’s Eleven,’ Brad Pitt plays Rusty Ryan, the right-hand man to Danny Ocean. Rusty is a sharp and sophisticated con artist who helps assemble a team of eleven specialists to pull off an impossible heist: robbing three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.

Pitt’s performance is the epitome of effortless cool. He is constantly eating in his scenes, a character detail he added himself. His witty banter with George Clooney is a highlight of the film, which is a fun, smart, and endlessly entertaining caper with a fantastic ensemble cast.

‘Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas’ (2003)

In this animated adventure from DreamWorks, Brad Pitt provides the voice for the legendary sailor, Sinbad. The story follows the charming and roguish pirate as he is framed for stealing a powerful magical artifact, the Book of Peace. To clear his name and save his best friend, Sinbad must journey to a dangerous realm to retrieve the book from the Goddess of Chaos.

Pitt’s voice work perfectly captures the character’s swashbuckling charm and heroic spirit. The film is a beautifully animated and exciting adventure on the high seas, filled with mythical creatures and epic action sequences.

‘Troy’ (2004)

Brad Pitt took on the legendary role of the Greek warrior Achilles in the historical epic ‘Troy.’ Based on Homer’s ‘Iliad,’ the film tells the story of the massive war between the kingdoms of Troy and Sparta. Achilles is the greatest warrior of his time, a demigod who is fighting for glory and immortality, but his pride threatens to be his downfall.

Pitt underwent intense physical training to achieve the physique of the mythical hero. He commands the screen as the powerful and conflicted warrior, bringing a sense of tragic grandeur to the role. The film is a massive spectacle with epic battle scenes and a grand sense of scale.

‘Ocean’s Twelve’ (2004)

Brad Pitt reprised his role as the effortlessly cool Rusty Ryan in ‘Ocean’s Twelve.’ In the sequel, the team is forced to reunite after the casino owner they robbed tracks them down and demands his money back, with interest. To pay him off, they must pull off a series of even more complicated heists in Europe while also dealing with a rival thief.

The film is a stylish and self-aware sequel that plays with the chemistry of its famous cast. Pitt once again brings his signature charm and comedic timing to the role. The movie is a fun and globe-trotting adventure that continues the story of the world’s most sophisticated criminals.

‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ (2005)

‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ is a blockbuster action-comedy starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. They play a bored suburban married couple who are both secretly elite assassins working for competing agencies. Their lives are turned upside down when they discover each other’s secret and are assigned to kill each other.

The film is a perfect blend of high-octane action, sharp comedy, and sizzling romance. Pitt’s comedic timing and skill with action sequences are on full display. The incredible on-screen chemistry between the two leads was a major factor in the film’s massive box office success.

‘Babel’ (2006)

In the acclaimed drama ‘Babel,’ Brad Pitt gives one of his most powerful and understated performances. The film tells four interconnected stories set in different parts of the world. Pitt plays Richard Jones, an American tourist in Morocco whose wife is accidentally shot. He finds himself in a desperate situation, trying to get medical help in a remote village while dealing with international political tensions.

Pitt delivers a raw and emotional performance as a man facing an unimaginable crisis. The role was a departure from his more glamorous star vehicles, and it earned him critical praise for his dramatic depth. The film is a complex and moving exploration of the barriers to human communication.

‘Ocean’s Thirteen’ (2007)

The ‘Ocean’s’ crew returned for a third outing in ‘Ocean’s Thirteen.’ Brad Pitt is back as Rusty Ryan, joining the team for a revenge mission. After one of their original members is double-crossed by a ruthless new casino owner, the gang reunites in Las Vegas to financially and personally ruin him on the opening night of his new hotel.

The third film in the series returned to the fun and stylish heist formula of the first. Pitt, along with the rest of the ensemble cast, is clearly having a great time. The movie is a clever, witty, and satisfying conclusion to the popular trilogy.

‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford’ (2007)

Brad Pitt plays the legendary outlaw Jesse James in this meditative and beautifully shot Western. The film is not a traditional action movie, but a psychological character study. It explores the final months of James’s life and his complex relationship with Robert Ford, a young and star-struck gang member who both idolizes and resents him.

Pitt’s portrayal of Jesse James is mesmerizing. He plays him as a weary, paranoid, and melancholic celebrity who is trapped by his own myth. It is a subtle and haunting performance in a film that is a poetic and artful deconstruction of a classic American legend. The role won him the Best Actor award at the Venice Film Festival.

‘Burn After Reading’ (2008)

In the Coen Brothers’ dark comedy ‘Burn After Reading,’ Brad Pitt delivers a hilarious and goofy performance as Chad Feldheimer. Chad is a dim-witted and hyperactive personal trainer who stumbles upon a disc containing what he believes are top-secret CIA memoirs. He and his co-worker try to use the disc to blackmail the former agent, with disastrous and comical results.

Pitt is a comedic standout in a film full of brilliant comedic actors. He fully embraces the character’s stupidity and boundless enthusiasm, creating a memorable and lovable idiot. The role is a perfect example of his fantastic comedic timing and his willingness to play against type.

‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008)

In this epic fantasy drama, Brad Pitt plays Benjamin Button, a man who is born old and ages in reverse. The film follows his extraordinary life from the end of World War I to the 21st century. It is a grand and poignant story about time, loss, and his lifelong love for a woman who is aging in the opposite direction.

The role was a major technical and acting challenge, with Pitt portraying the character at every stage of his life with the help of groundbreaking visual effects and makeup. His performance is subtle and deeply moving, capturing the soul of a man living a unique and lonely existence. The role earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009)

In Quentin Tarantino’s World War II film ‘Inglourious Basterds,’ Brad Pitt stars as Lieutenant Aldo Raine. Raine is the tough and charismatic leader of a special unit of Jewish-American soldiers who are sent into Nazi-occupied France to hunt and brutally kill Nazis. He is a larger-than-life character with a thick Southern accent and a mysterious scar on his neck.

Pitt’s performance is commanding and hilarious. He fully commits to the film’s stylized and over-the-top tone, creating an instantly iconic character. His attempts to speak Italian are a comedic highlight in a film that is a masterful blend of suspense, violence, and dark humor.

‘Megamind’ (2010)

Brad Pitt lent his voice to the animated superhero comedy ‘Megamind.’ He voices Metro Man, the beloved and seemingly perfect superhero protector of Metro City. He is the lifelong nemesis of the supervillain Megamind. However, Metro Man is secretly tired of being the hero and decides to fake his own death to pursue a career in music.

Pitt’s voice performance is full of charm and comedic self-importance. He perfectly captures the persona of a superhero who is bored with being perfect. The film is a clever and funny deconstruction of the superhero genre from the villain’s point of view.

‘The Tree of Life’ (2011)

In Terrence Malick’s visually stunning and deeply philosophical film ‘The Tree of Life,’ Brad Pitt plays Mr. O’Brien. He is the stern and authoritarian father of three boys growing up in 1950s Texas. The film explores the family’s life through a series of impressionistic memories, contrasting the father’s harsh nature with the mother’s gentle grace.

Pitt gives one of his most acclaimed and nuanced performances. He portrays a complex and conflicted man who loves his family but struggles to show it in a positive way. The role is a raw and powerful depiction of fatherhood and the lasting impact parents have on their children.

‘Moneyball’ (2011)

Based on a true story, ‘Moneyball’ stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics baseball team. With a very limited budget, Beane challenges the conventional wisdom of the sport by adopting a controversial new system of player analysis based on statistics. He assembles a team of undervalued players and tries to compete against the richer teams.

Pitt’s performance as the smart and defiant Beane earned him another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He perfectly captures the character’s passion, frustration, and unwavering belief in his revolutionary ideas. The film is a smart and compelling underdog story that is about more than just baseball.

‘Happy Feet Two’ (2011)

In the animated sequel ‘Happy Feet Two,’ Brad Pitt provides the voice for Will the Krill. Will is a tiny Antarctic krill who, unlike the trillions of others in his swarm, wants to break free and evolve into a predator. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery with his best friend, Bill the Krill.

Pitt brings a great deal of comedic energy and personality to the tiny character. His vocal performance, alongside his co-star Matt Damon, is a highlight of the film’s subplot. The movie is a visually dazzling and family-friendly adventure with a positive message about being yourself.

‘Killing Them Softly’ (2012)

‘Killing Them Softly’ is a gritty and cynical crime thriller where Brad Pitt plays Jackie Cogan. Jackie is a professional enforcer who is hired to track down and punish two low-level criminals who robbed a mob-protected poker game. The film uses the crime story as a dark allegory for the 2008 financial crisis and the failure of American capitalism.

Pitt is effortlessly cool and menacing as the pragmatic and business-like hitman. He delivers a cold and commanding performance in a film that is dark, violent, and highly stylized. It is a bleak and thought-provoking take on the gangster genre.

‘World War Z’ (2013)

In the massive zombie action film ‘World War Z,’ Brad Pitt plays Gerry Lane, a former United Nations investigator. When a mysterious virus rapidly turns people into ferocious zombies, creating a global pandemic, Gerry is called back into service to travel the world and find a way to stop the outbreak and save humanity.

Pitt is a calm and capable hero at the center of a chaotic global apocalypse. He anchors the large-scale action with a grounded and relatable performance as a man who is driven to protect his family. The film is a thrilling and intense blockbuster with a unique take on the zombie genre.

’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)

In the powerful and historically important film ’12 Years a Slave,’ Brad Pitt has a small but crucial supporting role. The film tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 19th-century American South. Pitt plays Samuel Bass, a Canadian carpenter working on the plantation who opposes slavery.

Bass is the first and only white person in the film who shows genuine moral decency and helps Solomon regain his freedom. Although his screen time is brief, his character represents a glimmer of hope and justice in a story of immense brutality and suffering. Pitt also served as a producer on the film, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

‘The Counselor’ (2013)

‘The Counselor’ is a dark and violent thriller with a star-studded cast. Brad Pitt plays Westray, a savvy and well-connected middleman in the high-stakes world of drug trafficking. He acts as a philosophical advisor to a lawyer who decides to get involved in a drug deal, warning him of the extreme dangers and the brutal consequences of their world.

Pitt brings a world-weary charisma to his role as the cowboy-hat-wearing criminal. He serves as the voice of reason in a story where everyone is heading toward a grim fate. The film is a bleak and brutal look at greed and the irreversible nature of bad decisions.

‘Fury’ (2014)

In the intense World War II drama ‘Fury,’ Brad Pitt stars as Sergeant Don “Wardaddy” Collier. He is the tough and battle-hardened commander of a Sherman tank and its five-man crew. The film follows the crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines during the final weeks of the war in Germany.

Pitt delivers a commanding and gritty performance as a leader who has seen the worst of war but is determined to keep his men alive. He perfectly captures the character’s weariness and his unwavering resolve. The film is a brutal, realistic, and unflinching depiction of the horrors of tank warfare.

‘By the Sea’ (2015)

‘By the Sea’ is an intimate and artistic drama starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who also wrote and directed the film. They play Roland and Vanessa, an American couple in the 1970s who travel to a quiet seaside hotel in France. Their marriage is in a state of crisis, and they find themselves observing and interacting with their fellow travelers in a way that affects their own relationship.

Pitt gives a quiet and introspective performance as a writer struggling with his career and his marriage. The film is a slow-paced and visually beautiful exploration of grief, love, and emotional distance. It is a European-style art film that is a significant departure from their blockbuster work.

‘The Big Short’ (2015)

In ‘The Big Short,’ a film about the 2008 financial crisis, Brad Pitt plays Ben Rickert, a retired, paranoid, and disillusioned former trader. He is coaxed back into the world of finance to help two young investors bet against the U.S. housing market. He serves as their mentor and guide through the corrupt and complex world of high finance.

Pitt, who also produced the film, delivers a strong supporting performance as the story’s moral conscience. His character is a man who has seen the dark side of the industry and is deeply cynical about it. The film is a smart, funny, and infuriating explanation of a major historical event.

‘Allied’ (2016)

‘Allied’ is a romantic spy thriller set during World War II. Brad Pitt plays Max Vatan, a Canadian intelligence officer who, while on a mission in Casablanca, falls in love with a French Resistance fighter. They later marry and start a family in London, but their happiness is shattered when Max is told that his wife may be a German spy, and he must investigate her himself.

Pitt delivers a classic, old-fashioned movie star performance as the stoic and romantic hero. He portrays the character’s journey from a confident spy to a man torn between his love for his wife and his duty to his country. The film is a stylish and suspenseful homage to the classic thrillers of the 1940s.

‘War Machine’ (2017)

‘War Machine’ is a satirical war film in which Brad Pitt stars as General Glen McMahon, a charismatic and highly decorated four-star general. The character is a fictionalized version of General Stanley McChrystal. The film follows McMahon as he is sent to Afghanistan to command the war effort, where his supreme confidence and unconventional methods clash with political reality.

Pitt gives a bold and exaggerated performance, adopting a gravelly voice and a stiff posture to portray the larger-than-life general. He perfectly satirizes the persona of a “rock star” military leader whose own hubris leads to his downfall. The film is a sharp and funny critique of modern warfare and the people who run it.

‘Deadpool 2’ (2018)

Brad Pitt makes a hilarious and shocking blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo in ‘Deadpool 2.’ He plays The Vanisher, a member of the X-Force team who is, as his name suggests, completely invisible for most of his screen time. It is only in the moment of his character’s untimely death by electrocution that his face is revealed for a split second.

The cameo was a huge surprise and is considered one of the best and funniest in recent movie history. Pitt reportedly did the role for scale pay and a cup of coffee, simply because he found it funny. It is a perfect example of his great sense of humor and his willingness to not take himself too seriously.

‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood’ (2019)

For his role as Cliff Booth in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,’ Brad Pitt won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Cliff is the stunt double, driver, and best friend of a fading television actor in 1969 Los Angeles. He is a cool, capable, and enigmatic war hero who navigates the changing world of Hollywood with a laid-back confidence.

Pitt’s performance is the definition of effortless movie star cool. He is incredibly charismatic, funny, and intimidating, embodying a bygone era of Hollywood masculinity. It is a masterful performance that is the heart and soul of the film, which is a loving and nostalgic tribute to the golden age of cinema.

‘Ad Astra’ (2019)

‘Ad Astra’ is a visually stunning and contemplative science fiction film. Brad Pitt stars as Major Roy McBride, an astronaut who travels to the outer edges of the solar system to find his missing father and unravel a mystery that threatens the survival of our planet. The journey forces him to confront his own loneliness and his place in the universe.

Pitt delivers a subtle, internalized, and deeply emotional performance. Much of the film relies on his quiet and expressive face to convey his character’s inner turmoil. It is a powerful and introspective look at masculinity, father-son relationships, and the human need for connection.

‘The Lost City’ (2022)

In the action-adventure comedy ‘The Lost City,’ Brad Pitt has a scene-stealing extended cameo. He plays Jack Trainer, a ridiculously handsome and capable ex-Navy SEAL and human tracker. He is hired by the main character to rescue a romance novelist who has been kidnapped by a billionaire searching for a lost treasure.

Pitt is hilarious as the impossibly competent and zen-like action hero. His brief appearance is a major highlight of the film, filled with well-executed action and great comedic moments. The role is another fun example of him using his movie star image for comedic effect.

‘Bullet Train’ (2022)

‘Bullet Train’ is a stylish and hyper-violent action-comedy. Brad Pitt stars as Ladybug, an unlucky assassin who is hired for a seemingly simple job: retrieve a briefcase on a high-speed train traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto. He soon discovers that the train is filled with other deadly assassins from around the world, and their missions are all interconnected.

Pitt is perfectly cast as the reluctant and surprisingly philosophical hitman who just wants to do his job peacefully. He showcases his fantastic comedic timing and his action-hero skills in a film that is a fun, fast-paced, and wildly entertaining ride.

‘Babylon’ (2022)

In the epic and wildly chaotic film ‘Babylon,’ Brad Pitt plays Jack Conrad, one of the biggest silent film stars in 1920s Hollywood. The film chronicles the rise and fall of multiple characters during the movie industry’s decadent and debauched transition from silent films to “talkies.” Jack is a charming and beloved star who struggles to adapt to the changing times.

Pitt delivers a charismatic and ultimately tragic performance as a man who is a king in his own world but finds himself becoming obsolete. He perfectly captures the glamour and the melancholy of a bygone era. The film is a bold and ambitious love letter to and critique of early Hollywood.

‘Wolfs’ (2024)

‘Wolfs’ reunites Brad Pitt and George Clooney as two lone-wolf professional fixers. They discover they have been hired for the same job: to cover up a high-profile crime. The two rivals are forced to work together, leading to a wild and unpredictable night of action and comedy as they deal with the situation and each other.

The film sees Pitt returning to the slick, confident persona he has perfected in films like the ‘Ocean’s’ series. His on-screen chemistry with Clooney is once again a central element. The movie is a stylish thriller that combines suspense with the witty banter between its two iconic stars.

‘F1’ (2025)

In this highly anticipated racing drama, Brad Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a former Formula 1 driver who retired in the 1990s. He makes a comeback to the sport to mentor and team up with a promising young rookie driver, competing alongside the real teams and drivers of the F1 world. The film aims for an unprecedented level of authenticity, with scenes filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for his work on ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ the film promises spectacular and immersive racing action. Pitt’s role as the veteran driver returning to the high-stakes world he left behind allows him to explore themes of mentorship, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

From charming rogue to complex character actor, which Brad Pitt role do you believe best defines his incredible career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.