Brad Pitt’s 64-Film Career: From ‘Hunk’ To ‘F1’

Brad Pitt’s journey in Hollywood is a remarkable story of talent and persistence. With a career spanning over three decades, he has transitioned from small, uncredited roles to becoming one of the most influential figures in the film industry. His body of work showcases a versatile actor capable of tackling a wide range of characters, from charming criminals to complex heroes. Pitt’s dedication to his craft is evident in the diverse roles he has chosen, solidifying his status as a true movie star.

Beyond his on-screen presence, Pitt has also made a name for himself as a producer. In 2001, he co-founded the production company Plan B Entertainment. This venture has been responsible for critically acclaimed films, including several Academy Award winners. His work behind the scenes demonstrates a keen eye for compelling stories and a commitment to bringing them to the screen, further cementing his legacy in the world of cinema.

‘Hunk’ (1987)

In the comedy film ‘Hunk’, a nerdy young man makes a deal with the devil to become a handsome, popular man. The film is a lighthearted take on the Faustian bargain theme, filled with 80s charm and humor. It explores themes of identity and the desire for social acceptance.

Brad Pitt’s role in this film is a very minor, uncredited appearance. He is briefly seen on screen as a ‘man at the beach with a drink’. This small part was one of his earliest forays into the film industry, offering a fleeting glimpse of the future star before his career took off.

‘No Man’s Land’ (1987)

‘No Man’s Land’ is a crime thriller starring Charlie Sheen and D.B. Sweeney. The story follows an undercover cop who infiltrates a Porsche theft ring led by a wealthy and charismatic young man. The film is known for its fast-paced action sequences and stylish depiction of the world of luxury car theft.

In this film, Brad Pitt has an uncredited role as a ‘waiter’. This was another of his early, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it appearances as he was just starting to get his foot in the door of the acting world. These small roles were crucial in helping him gain experience and build his resume.

‘Less than Zero’ (1987)

‘Less than Zero’ is a drama based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis. The film stars Andrew McCarthy, Jami Gertz, and Robert Downey Jr., and it paints a dark picture of the lives of wealthy, disaffected young people in Los Angeles. It deals with heavy themes of drug addiction and nihilism.

Brad Pitt appears in an uncredited role as a ‘partygoer’ and a ‘preppie guy at a fight’. This was another small part for the aspiring actor, placing him in the background of a film that captured the decadent and often destructive youth culture of the 1980s.

‘No Way Out’ (1987)

‘No Way Out’ is a political thriller starring Kevin Costner and Gene Hackman. The story revolves around a Navy officer who finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation that leads to the highest levels of the Pentagon. The film is praised for its suspenseful plot and a surprising twist ending.

Brad Pitt has a brief, uncredited role as a ‘party guest’ in this film. Like his other roles from this year, it was a minor part that offered him a chance to be on a major film set and observe established actors at work, an invaluable experience for someone just starting their career.

‘The Dark Side of the Sun’ (1988)

‘The Dark Side of the Sun’ tells the story of a young American man named Rick who suffers from a rare skin disease that makes him allergic to sunlight. He travels with his family to the Adriatic to find a cure. The film explores his desire to live a normal life and experience love, even if it means risking his health.

This film marked Brad Pitt’s first leading role. He played the central character, Rick, who must decide between living in the dark or embracing a fleeting moment of happiness in the sun. Due to the outbreak of the Croatian War of Independence, the film’s release was delayed until 1997.

‘Happy Together’ (1989)

‘Happy Together’ is a romantic comedy about two college freshmen who are mistakenly assigned to the same dorm room. One is a serious student, and the other is a free-spirited party animal. The film follows their initial clashes and eventual friendship and romance.

In this film, Brad Pitt plays the role of Brian, the popular and charming boyfriend of one of the main characters. The role showcased his good looks and charisma, hinting at the leading man potential he would later realize.

‘Cutting Class’ (1989)

‘Cutting Class’ is a dark comedy slasher film set in a high school. The story follows a series of mysterious murders that begin after a troubled student is released from a mental institution. The film blends horror elements with satirical humor.

Brad Pitt starred as Dwight Ingalls, the popular jock and boyfriend of the female protagonist. This was one of his first major roles in a feature film, placing him at the center of a teen horror plot and giving him significant screen time.

‘Across the Tracks’ (1991)

‘Across the Tracks’ is a drama about two brothers with very different lives. Joe, played by Brad Pitt, is a responsible high school track star, while his brother Billy is a troubled youth who has just returned from reform school. The film explores their rivalry and the complex bond between them.

Pitt’s portrayal of Joe Maloney required him to delve into the emotional turmoil of a young man trying to keep his life on track while dealing with a volatile family situation. The film highlighted his ability to handle dramatic and physically demanding roles.

‘Thelma & Louise’ (1991)

‘Thelma & Louise’ is a landmark road movie about two friends who embark on a weekend getaway that turns into a flight from the law. The film, starring Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, is celebrated for its feminist themes and iconic ending. It became a critical and commercial success.

Brad Pitt’s role as J.D., a charming young drifter who hooks up with Thelma, was his breakout performance. Although he had limited screen time, his charismatic and memorable appearance is widely considered the moment that launched him into stardom and established him as a major Hollywood heartthrob.

‘Johnny Suede’ (1991)

‘Johnny Suede’ is an independent film about a quirky young man with an enormous pompadour who dreams of becoming a rock star like his idol, Ricky Nelson. The film has a unique, stylized aesthetic and follows Johnny’s offbeat journey through love and music.

Brad Pitt played the titular role of Johnny Suede, fully embracing the character’s eccentricities and retro style. The role allowed him to showcase a more comedic and off-kilter side of his acting, a departure from the more straightforward characters he had played previously.

‘Cool World’ (1992)

‘Cool World’ is a live-action/animated fantasy film about a cartoonist who finds himself transported into the animated world he created. This world, known as ‘Cool World’, is a chaotic and dangerous place filled with cartoon characters called ‘doodles’.

Brad Pitt starred as Detective Frank Harris, a human detective living in Cool World who enforces the law that humans and doodles are not allowed to have physical relationships. The film was a mix of dark fantasy and animation, and Pitt’s role was central to its unique plot.

‘Contact’ (1992)

‘Contact’ is a short film that was part of a student showcase. The story is a dramatic piece that explores themes of connection and communication. As a short film, it provided a platform for emerging talent to display their skills in a concise format.

In this short film, Brad Pitt played the character of Cox. His participation in a project like this demonstrates his willingness to work on smaller, artistic endeavors even as his mainstream career was beginning to take off.

‘A River Runs Through It’ (1992)

Directed by Robert Redford, ‘A River Runs Through It’ is a beautifully crafted drama based on the semi-autobiographical novella by Norman Maclean. The story follows two brothers growing up in rural Montana, bonding over their shared love of fly-fishing. The film is known for its stunning cinematography and thoughtful exploration of family relationships.

Brad Pitt’s role as Paul Maclean, the rebellious and talented younger brother, earned him widespread critical acclaim. His performance was praised for capturing the character’s charm and inner turmoil, solidifying his reputation as a serious actor and not just a pretty face. Pitt himself felt that working with a director like Redford improved his own acting abilities.

‘Kalifornia’ (1993)

‘Kalifornia’ is a dark road thriller about a writer and his photographer girlfriend who decide to travel cross-country to research a book on serial killers. To save money, they share the ride with a recently paroled convict and his girlfriend, unaware that their new companion is a violent killer himself.

Brad Pitt took on the role of Early Grayce, the menacing and unpredictable serial killer. His performance was a stark departure from his previous roles, showcasing his ability to portray a truly disturbing and unhinged character. Critics praised his convincing and frightening portrayal, highlighting his versatility as an actor.

‘True Romance’ (1993)

Written by Quentin Tarantino and directed by Tony Scott, ‘True Romance’ is a high-octane crime film with a romantic core. It follows two unlikely newlyweds who go on the run from the mob after accidentally stealing a suitcase full of drugs. The film is known for its sharp dialogue, stylized violence, and star-studded ensemble cast.

Brad Pitt had a small but memorable role as Floyd, a perpetually stoned slacker who is the roommate of one of the main characters. His comedic performance provided some of the film’s funniest moments, and the character became an inspiration for Judd Apatow’s film ‘Pineapple Express’.

‘The Favor’ (1994)

‘The Favor’ is a romantic comedy about a woman who, wondering what might have been with her old high school flame, asks her best friend to sleep with him on her behalf. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and regret through a complicated and humorous premise.

Brad Pitt played Elliott Fowler, the handsome and artistic ex-boyfriend at the center of the titular ‘favor’. Although the film was shot earlier, its release was delayed. The role showcased Pitt’s romantic lead potential in a lighthearted, comedic setting.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)

Based on Anne Rice’s popular novel, ‘Interview with the Vampire’ is a gothic horror film that spans centuries. It tells the story of Louis de Pointe du Lac, a man who is turned into a vampire in the 18th century and recounts his immortal life of love, loss, and loneliness to a modern-day reporter.

Brad Pitt starred as Louis, the tormented and introspective vampire, alongside Tom Cruise as the charismatic and cruel Lestat. The film was a major box office success and further established Pitt as a leading man capable of carrying a large-scale production. His portrayal captured the melancholy and moral conflict of a vampire who struggles with his nature.

‘Legends of the Fall’ (1994)

‘Legends of the Fall’ is an epic Western drama that tells the story of the Ludlow family in early 20th-century Montana. The film follows three brothers and their father as their lives are profoundly affected by war, love, and betrayal. It’s a sweeping tale of passion and loss set against the backdrop of a changing American West.

Brad Pitt’s portrayal of Tristan Ludlow, the wild and passionate middle brother, earned him his first Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor. The role cemented his status as a major movie star and a romantic lead. Despite reports of on-set disagreements with the director, Pitt’s performance was widely praised by critics and audiences alike.

‘Se7en’ (1995)

‘Seven’ is a dark and stylish psychological thriller directed by David Fincher. The film follows two detectives, one a weary veteran on the verge of retirement and the other a hot-headed newcomer, as they hunt a meticulous serial killer whose crimes are based on the seven deadly sins. The film is renowned for its grim atmosphere and shocking ending.

Brad Pitt played Detective David Mills, the impulsive young detective, starring opposite Morgan Freeman. Pitt was determined to escape being typecast and actively sought out a role with more depth. He famously insisted that the film’s bleak and controversial ending remain unchanged, a decision that proved crucial to the film’s lasting impact.

‘Twelve Monkeys’ (1995)

Directed by Terry Gilliam, ’12 Monkeys’ is a complex science fiction film about a convict 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. The film explores themes of memory, madness, and fate.

Brad Pitt delivered a manic and unforgettable performance as Jeffrey Goines, a volatile mental patient and the son of a famous scientist. The role was a significant departure for him and earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor, as well as his first Academy Award nomination.

‘Sleepers’ (1996)

‘Sleepers’ is a legal crime drama with an ensemble cast that includes Robert De Niro, Kevin Bacon, and Dustin Hoffman. The film tells the story of four childhood friends from Hell’s Kitchen who, after a prank goes horribly wrong, are sent to a brutal juvenile detention center. Years later, they seek revenge on the abusive guards who tormented them.

Brad Pitt played Michael Sullivan, who grows up to be an assistant district attorney. He finds himself in the difficult position of prosecuting two of his childhood friends for murder, while secretly working to expose the corruption and abuse they all suffered. The role allowed Pitt to portray a character caught in a deep moral and ethical conflict.

‘The Devil’s Own’ (1997)

‘The Devil’s Own’ is an action thriller starring Brad Pitt and Harrison Ford. The film centers on an IRA gunman who travels to New York City to buy black market missiles. He stays in the home of an Irish-American cop who is unaware of his guest’s true identity and violent mission.

Pitt played Rory Devaney, the IRA terrorist, a role for which he had to learn an Irish accent. The production was reportedly difficult, with significant script rewrites to expand Harrison Ford’s role. Pitt publicly expressed his disappointment with the final film, feeling it had strayed from the more complex story he had initially signed on for.

‘Seven Years in Tibet’ (1997)

‘Seven Years in Tibet’ is a biographical drama based on the true story of Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer. The film follows Harrer’s experiences in Tibet during World War II, where he befriends the young Dalai Lama and witnesses the Chinese invasion of the region.

Brad Pitt starred as Heinrich Harrer, a role that required months of training in mountaineering and trekking. He and his co-star, David Thewlis, practiced their climbing skills in California and the European Alps to prepare. The film offered a look at a significant historical period through the eyes of an outsider who is profoundly changed by his journey.

‘Meet Joe Black’ (1998)

‘Meet Joe Black’ is a romantic fantasy film where Death takes on a human form to learn about life on Earth. A wealthy media mogul is chosen to be his guide in exchange for a little more time. The story explores life, love, and mortality as Death, in the guise of a young man named Joe Black, experiences human emotions for the first time.

Brad Pitt played the dual role of a ‘Young Man in Coffee Shop’ and ‘Death as Joe Black’. The film received mixed reviews from critics, and some were particularly critical of Pitt’s performance, finding it too subdued. Pitt himself has since called the performance a low point in his career, feeling he was not at his best during the making of the film.

‘Fight Club’ (1999)

Directed by David Fincher, ‘Fight Club’ is a dark, satirical film based on the novel by Chuck Palahniuk. It follows an insomniac office worker who, unhappy with his mundane life, partners with a charismatic soap salesman to create an underground club where men can fight recreationally. The project soon spirals into something much larger and more dangerous.

Pitt’s portrayal of the anarchic and charismatic Tyler Durden is one of his most iconic roles. To prepare, he took lessons in boxing and taekwondo. Although the film was not a box office success upon its initial release, it quickly became a cult classic, with Pitt’s performance widely praised for its energy and cool magnetism.

‘Snatch’ (2000)

‘Snatch’ is a fast-paced, stylish gangster comedy written and directed by Guy Ritchie. The film features a large ensemble cast and multiple intertwining storylines involving a stolen diamond, a Russian gangster, and a group of Irish Traveller bare-knuckle boxers.

Brad Pitt played the role of Mickey O’Neil, an Irish Traveller boxer with a thick, often unintelligible accent. The role was a comedic highlight of the film, and despite some criticism of the movie itself, most reviewers praised Pitt’s memorable and humorous performance.

‘The Mexican’ (2001)

‘The Mexican’ is a romantic comedy-adventure starring Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts. The story follows a hapless mob subordinate who is sent to Mexico to retrieve a legendary antique pistol known as ‘The Mexican’. Meanwhile, his girlfriend is taken hostage to ensure he completes his mission.

Pitt played Jerry Welbach, the well-meaning but clumsy protagonist caught between the demands of his mob bosses and his frustrated girlfriend. The film played on the star power of Pitt and Roberts, though they share very few scenes together.

‘Spy Game’ (2001)

‘Spy Game’ is a spy thriller directed by Tony Scott, starring Robert Redford and Brad Pitt. The story is set on the day of a veteran CIA agent’s retirement, when he learns that his protégé has been arrested in China on espionage charges. The film uses flashbacks to explore the relationship between the two spies and the events that led to the present crisis.

Pitt played Tom Bishop, the younger, more impulsive CIA operative. The film paired him with screen legend Robert Redford, who had previously directed him in ‘A River Runs Through It’. The dynamic between the mentor and his student is central to the film’s suspenseful plot.

‘Ocean’s Eleven’ (2001)

‘Ocean’s Eleven’ is a slick and stylish heist comedy directed by Steven Soderbergh. The film features a large, star-studded ensemble cast led by George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. The plot follows a group of professional criminals who team up to rob three major Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.

Brad Pitt played Rusty Ryan, the suave and capable right-hand man to Danny Ocean. The film was a massive commercial and critical success, praised for its cool aesthetic, clever plot, and the charismatic chemistry of its cast. Pitt’s role as the effortlessly cool Rusty became one of his most popular characters.

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

‘Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas’ is an animated adventure film from DreamWorks Animation. The story follows the legendary sailor Sinbad, who is framed for stealing the mystical Book of Peace. To save his friend and clear his name, he must travel to a dangerous realm to retrieve the book from the goddess of chaos.

Brad Pitt provided the voice for the lead character, Sinbad. This was one of his first major voice-acting roles, allowing him to bring his charismatic presence to an animated hero. The film also featured the voices of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michelle Pfeiffer.

‘Troy’ (2004)

‘Troy’ is a historical epic based on Homer’s ‘Iliad’. The film dramatizes the legendary Trojan War, a decade-long conflict between the combined forces of Greece and the city of Troy. It’s a grand-scale blockbuster filled with massive battles, romance, and tragedy.

Brad Pitt starred as Achilles, the legendary Greek warrior often described as the greatest fighter of his time. To prepare for the physically demanding role, Pitt underwent six months of sword training. In an ironic twist, he injured his Achilles tendon during production, which caused filming to be delayed.

‘Ocean’s Twelve’ (2004)

‘Ocean’s Twelve’ is the sequel to the successful heist film ‘Ocean’s Eleven’. The original crew is back, but this time they find themselves in trouble when the casino owner they previously robbed demands his money back. To pay him off, they plan a series of heists across Europe.

Brad Pitt reprised his role as the cool and collected Rusty Ryan. The film reunited the popular ensemble cast and took the action to international locations like Amsterdam and Rome. While some found it less focused than the original, it was still a commercial success.

‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ (2005)

‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ is an action-comedy about a bored suburban couple who discover that they are both secret assassins working for competing agencies. Their mundane marriage gets a jolt of excitement when they are assigned to kill each other.

Brad Pitt played John Smith, starring opposite Angelina Jolie as Jane Smith. The film was a huge box office hit, known for its blend of action, humor, and the undeniable on-screen chemistry between its two leads.

‘Babel’ (2006)

‘Babel’ is a multi-narrative drama that connects four different stories set in Morocco, the United States, Mexico, and Japan. The film explores the themes of miscommunication and the unforeseen consequences that can arise from a single, tragic event.

Brad Pitt played Richard Jones, an American tourist whose wife is accidentally shot while they are on vacation in Morocco. His performance was part of a critically acclaimed ensemble cast, and his portrayal of a husband dealing with a sudden crisis earned him a Golden Globe nomination.

‘Ocean’s Thirteen’ (2007)

‘Ocean’s Thirteen’ is the third installment in the popular heist series. In this film, Danny Ocean’s crew reunites to take down a ruthless new casino owner in Las Vegas who has double-crossed one of their own. Their goal this time isn’t just money, it’s revenge.

Brad Pitt returned once again as Rusty Ryan, bringing his signature cool to the ensemble. The film was seen by many as a return to form for the series, praised for its clever heist plot and the enjoyable camaraderie of the cast.

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

This film is a meditative and atmospheric Western that explores the complex relationship between the notorious outlaw Jesse James and his star-struck admirer, Robert Ford. The movie deconstructs the myth of the famous gunslinger, focusing on the celebrity and paranoia that defined his final days.

Brad Pitt, who also served as a producer, played the legendary Jesse James. His performance was widely acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of a man who is both a charismatic leader and a deeply troubled individual. The role showcased Pitt’s ability to inhabit complex, historical figures.

‘Burn After Reading’ (2008)

‘Burn After Reading’ is a dark comedy from the Coen Brothers. The story follows two dim-witted gym employees who stumble upon what they believe are top-secret CIA documents. They attempt to profit from their discovery, leading to a series of chaotic and hilarious misunderstandings.

Brad Pitt played Chad Feldheimer, the hyperactive and clueless personal trainer at the center of the confusion. His comedic performance was a highlight of the film, and he earned praise for his physical comedy and perfect delivery of the Coens’ signature dialogue.

‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008)

Directed by David Fincher, this fantasy drama tells the extraordinary story of a man who is born in his eighties and ages backward. The film follows his unusual life and his enduring love for a woman who ages forward, exploring themes of time, love, and loss.

Brad Pitt starred as the titular Benjamin Button, a role that required extensive makeup and digital effects to portray the character at various stages of his life. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and was praised for its emotional depth.

‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009)

Written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, ‘Inglourious Basterds’ is a revisionist history war film set in Nazi-occupied France. The movie follows two parallel plots: one involving a group of Jewish-American soldiers known for their brutal tactics, and the other concerning a young French-Jewish woman who seeks to avenge her family.

Brad Pitt played Lt. Aldo Raine, the charismatic and tough-as-nails leader of the ‘Basterds’. With his thick Southern accent and determined demeanor, Pitt’s character became one of the most memorable parts of the film.

‘Megamind’ (2010)

‘Megamind’ is an animated superhero comedy that flips the traditional hero-villain narrative on its head. The story follows a supervillain who finally defeats his heroic nemesis, only to find that his life has no purpose without a hero to fight. He decides to create a new hero, but his plan goes horribly wrong.

Brad Pitt provided the voice for Metro Man, the city’s beloved and seemingly perfect superhero. Although his character disappears early in the film, Metro Man’s legacy and surprising backstory are central to the plot.

‘The Tree of Life’ (2011)

Directed by Terrence Malick, ‘The Tree of Life’ is a highly philosophical and visually stunning film that explores the origins of the universe and the meaning of life through the memories of a middle-aged man reflecting on his childhood in 1950s Texas.

Brad Pitt played Mr. O’Brien, the strict and often overbearing father of the family at the center of the film. As a producer on the film, Pitt was instrumental in bringing Malick’s ambitious and unconventional vision to the screen. The film won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

‘Moneyball’ (2011)

‘Moneyball’ is a sports drama based on the true story of Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics baseball team. Faced with a limited budget, Beane adopts a controversial, data-driven approach to assembling a competitive team, challenging the traditional wisdom of the sport.

Brad Pitt starred as Billy Beane, and his performance was widely praised for capturing the character’s determination and rebellious spirit. He also served as a producer on the film, which earned him Academy Award nominations for both Best Actor and Best Picture.

‘Happy Feet Two’ (2011)

‘Happy Feet Two’ is the animated sequel to the popular musical film about dancing penguins. In this installment, Mumble the penguin must unite the entire penguin nation to save them from a new threat that has trapped their colony.

Brad Pitt lent his voice to the character Will the Krill, one of a pair of tiny crustaceans who leave their swarm to seek their own destiny. His vocal performance, alongside Matt Damon as his companion Bill the Krill, provided comic relief in the animated adventure.

‘Killing Them Softly’ (2012)

‘Killing Them Softly’ is a gritty crime thriller set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis. The film follows a professional enforcer who is hired to restore order after a mob-protected card game is robbed by two low-level criminals.

Brad Pitt played Jackie Cogan, the cool and pragmatic hitman. He also produced the film, which was noted for its cynical tone and its commentary on American capitalism. The film reunited him with director Andrew Dominik, who also directed ‘The Assassination of Jesse James’.

‘World War Z’ (2013)

‘World War Z’ is a large-scale action-horror film about a global zombie pandemic. The story follows a former United Nations investigator who must travel the world to find a way to stop the zombie outbreak that is toppling armies and governments.

Brad Pitt starred as Gerry Lane, the reluctant hero trying to save humanity. He was also a producer on the film, which became his highest-grossing movie at the time. The film is known for its intense action sequences and its depiction of a fast-moving, swarming zombie horde.

’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)

’12 Years a Slave’ is a powerful historical drama based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free African-American man from New York who was kidnapped in 1841 and sold into slavery in the South. The film is an unflinching look at the brutality of American slavery.

Brad Pitt had a small but significant role as Samuel Bass, a Canadian laborer who opposes slavery and helps Solomon regain his freedom. As a producer, Pitt played a key role in getting the film made. It went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, earning Pitt his first Oscar as a producer.

‘The Counselor’ (2013)

Directed by Ridley Scott and written by Cormac McCarthy, ‘The Counselor’ is a dark and violent thriller about a lawyer who gets in over his head when he decides to dabble in the drug trafficking business. The film is known for its dense, philosophical dialogue and its grim depiction of the consequences of greed.

Brad Pitt played Westray, a charismatic and well-connected middleman who warns the titular counselor about the dangers of the world he is entering. His character provides much of the film’s exposition on the unforgiving nature of the cartel.

‘Fury’ (2014)

‘Fury’ is a gritty and intense World War II film that follows a five-man American tank crew operating behind enemy lines during the final days of the war in Germany. The film aims for a realistic portrayal of the brutal conditions and psychological toll of tank warfare.

Brad Pitt starred as Sergeant Don ‘Wardaddy’ Collier, the battle-hardened commander of the tank, also named ‘Fury’. In addition to his lead role, he also served as an executive producer on the film, which was praised for its visceral action and strong performances.

‘The Audition’ (2015)

‘The Audition’ is a short film directed by Martin Scorsese. The film served as a promotional piece for the Studio City and City of Dreams resorts in Macau and Manila. The humorous plot involves Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro competing against each other for the same role in a fictional Scorsese film.

Brad Pitt appeared as himself in a cameo role. He shows up at the end of the short, revealing that he has also been considered for the same part, much to the dismay of DiCaprio and De Niro. The short film was a playful collaboration between the director and his frequent leading men.

‘By the Sea’ (2015)

‘By the Sea’ is a romantic drama written and directed by Angelina Jolie. The film is set in the 1970s and follows an American writer and his wife as they travel through France. Their marriage is in crisis, and their relationship is tested as they settle in a quiet seaside town.

Brad Pitt starred as Roland, the writer struggling with his work and his marriage, opposite his then-wife Angelina Jolie. Pitt also produced the film, which was a more artistic and character-driven project, exploring themes of grief and marital discord.

‘Hitting the Apex’ (2015)

‘Hitting the Apex’ is a documentary that explores the world of professional MotoGP racing, focusing on the intense rivalries and remarkable skills of six of the fastest motorcycle racers in the world. The film provides an inside look at the high-stakes sport.

Brad Pitt served as the narrator for this documentary. His passion for motorcycle racing is well-known, and his involvement as both a producer and narrator lent his star power and a sense of genuine enthusiasm to the project.

‘The Big Short’ (2015)

‘The Big Short’ is a biographical comedy-drama that explains the 2007-2008 financial crisis from the perspective of a few American financial professionals who predicted the collapse of the housing market. The film is known for its unconventional narrative style, including breaking the fourth wall to explain complex financial concepts.

Brad Pitt played Ben Rickert, a reclusive and cynical former trader who helps a pair of young investors bet against the market. He was also a producer on the film, which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.

‘Voyage of Time’ (2016)

‘Voyage of Time’ is a documentary from acclaimed director Terrence Malick. The film is a cinematic exploration of the history of the universe, from the Big Bang to the age of dinosaurs and the eventual rise of humanity. It is known for its stunning visuals and poetic style.

Brad Pitt served as the narrator for one of the two versions of the film. His voice guides the audience through Malick’s grand and visually immersive journey through the history of time and space, reuniting him with the director after ‘The Tree of Life’.

‘Allied’ (2016)

‘Allied’ is a romantic thriller set during World War II. The story follows a Canadian intelligence officer who falls in love with a French Resistance fighter during a mission in North Africa. They reunite in London, but their relationship is soon threatened by the pressures of war and the suspicion that she may be a spy.

Brad Pitt starred as Max Vatan, the intelligence officer at the heart of the story. The film is a throwback to classic Hollywood thrillers, combining romance, suspense, and period detail.

‘War Machine’ (2017)

‘War Machine’ is a satirical war film that tells the story of a four-star American general tasked with commanding the NATO forces in Afghanistan. The film is a fictionalized take on the real-life story of General Stanley McChrystal, satirizing the complex realities of modern warfare and the gap between military leaders and political realities.

Brad Pitt played General Glen McMahon, a charismatic but ultimately over-confident leader. He also produced the film, which used dark humor to comment on the absurdities of the American war effort in Afghanistan.

‘Deadpool 2’ (2018)

‘Deadpool 2’ is the action-packed and irreverent sequel to the hit superhero comedy. The film follows the wisecracking mercenary Deadpool as he forms a team of mutants called X-Force to protect a young mutant from a time-traveling soldier.

Brad Pitt made a surprise cameo appearance as the invisible mutant known as Vanisher. His face is seen for only a brief, shocking moment when the character is electrocuted. The cameo was a fun, hidden joke that played on Pitt’s star status.

‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ (2019)

Directed by Quentin Tarantino, ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ is set in 1969 Los Angeles and follows the intertwined stories of a fading television actor and his longtime stunt double. The film is a tribute to the final years of Hollywood’s golden age.

Brad Pitt played Cliff Booth, the cool, capable, and loyal stunt double. His performance was met with universal acclaim, earning him an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor. The role was celebrated as a perfect showcase for his effortless charisma and acting talent.

‘Ad Astra’ (2019)

‘Ad Astra’ is a contemplative science fiction film about an astronaut who travels to the outer edges of the solar system to find his missing father. His journey reveals a mystery that threatens the planet and challenges our understanding of humanity’s place in the universe.

Brad Pitt starred as Major Roy McBride, the introspective astronaut on a lonely mission. He also served as a producer on the film. His performance was praised for its subtlety and emotional depth, conveying the character’s profound sense of isolation.

‘The Lost City’ (2022)

‘The Lost City’ is a romantic-comedy adventure starring Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum. The film follows a reclusive romance novelist who gets kidnapped by a billionaire who believes her latest book holds the key to finding a real lost city’s treasure. Her handsome but hapless cover model sets out to rescue her.

Brad Pitt had a scene-stealing cameo role as Jack Trainer, a ridiculously capable and charming ex-Navy SEAL adventurer hired to rescue the novelist. His brief but memorable appearance was a comedic highlight of the film.

‘Bullet Train’ (2022)

‘Bullet Train’ is a high-speed action-comedy set on a Japanese bullet train. The story follows an unlucky assassin who is hired for a simple snatch-and-grab job. He soon discovers that the train is filled with other deadly assassins whose missions are all mysteriously interconnected.

Brad Pitt starred as Ladybug, the anxious and surprisingly philosophical hitman at the center of the chaos. He performed a majority of his own stunts for the role, which blended intense action with a lighthearted, comedic tone.

‘Babylon’ (2022)

‘Babylon’ is an epic period comedy-drama that captures the decadence and depravity of early Hollywood during the transition from silent films to ‘talkies’. The film follows the rise and fall of multiple characters as they navigate the wild and often brutal world of the film industry in the 1920s and 30s.

Brad Pitt played Jack Conrad, a charismatic and immensely popular silent film star whose career is threatened by the arrival of sound. The role was a poignant look at the fleeting nature of fame, and Pitt’s performance captured the charm and eventual tragedy of his character.

‘IF’ (2024)

‘IF’ is a family-friendly fantasy comedy about a young girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends, or ‘IFs’. She embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect the forgotten IFs with their kids. The film is directed by John Krasinski and features a star-studded voice cast.

Brad Pitt has a voice credit in the film as Keith, an invisible imaginary friend. The role is a clever inside joke, as the character is never seen, and his voice is never actually heard, making it a unique, credit-only performance.

‘Wolfs’ (2024)

‘Wolfs’ is an action-comedy that reunites Brad Pitt and George Clooney. The film follows two lone-wolf professional fixers who are hired for the same job and are forced to work together, much to their annoyance.

In this film, Pitt plays a character referred to as ‘Pam’s Man’. The movie marks a highly anticipated on-screen reunion for the two actors, who famously starred together in the ‘Ocean’s’ trilogy. Pitt also serves as a producer on the film.

‘F1’ (2025)

The upcoming film, tentatively titled ‘F1’, is a sports drama centered on the high-octane world of Formula One racing. The story will follow a former driver who makes a comeback to the sport to mentor and team up with a younger rookie driver.

Brad Pitt is set to star as Sonny Hayes, the veteran F1 driver. The film is being produced in collaboration with the Formula 1 community to ensure an authentic portrayal of the sport. Pitt has been seen filming at actual Grand Prix events, driving a modified race car.

Which of Brad Pitt’s many and varied roles do you believe is his most definitive performance? Share your pick in the comments.