Dustin Hoffman’s Career: From ‘The Tiger Makes Out’ to ‘Megalopolis’

Dustin Hoffman’s career is a masterclass in versatility, showcasing an extraordinary ability to disappear into a vast array of characters. From his early days as a stage actor, he transitioned to film in the late 1960s and quickly established himself as one of the most compelling and unpredictable actors of his generation. He has consistently chosen challenging roles that defy easy categorization, earning numerous accolades along the way.

This listicle explores the remarkable breadth of his filmography, moving from his quirky debut to his Oscar-winning triumphs and recent work with legendary directors. It is a journey through more than five decades of cinema, highlighting a performer who has never shied away from complex, flawed, and deeply human characters. Each role demonstrates a unique facet of his immense talent, contributing to a legacy that continues to evolve.

The Tiger Makes Out (1967)

In his feature film debut, Dustin Hoffman plays Hap, a neurotic mailman and amateur intellectual in Greenwich Village. Frustrated with his lack of success with women, he decides to kidnap a woman to make her see his qualities. The plan goes awry when he mistakenly abducts a less-than-ideal housewife instead of his intended target.

The film is a quirky dark comedy that gave audiences the first glimpse of Hoffman’s talent for portraying unconventional and anxious characters. While not a commercial success, his performance was a clear sign of the unique screen presence he would bring to his future roles, setting the stage for his breakout performance later that same year.

The Graduate (1967)

Dustin Hoffman became an international star with his role as Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate filled with anxiety about his future. Adrift and disillusioned, he is seduced by the older, married Mrs. Robinson, only to fall in love with her daughter, Elaine. The film perfectly captured the generational gap and counter-cultural anxieties of the era.

Hoffman’s portrayal of the awkward and alienated Benjamin earned him his first Academy Award nomination and became an iconic piece of cinema history. The role established him as a leading man capable of conveying deep emotional complexity, and the film was a massive critical and box office success that defined a generation.

Madigan’s Millions (1968)

In this crime comedy, Dustin Hoffman plays Jason Fister, an awkward treasury agent sent to Rome to track down millions of dollars hidden by a deceased mobster. Fister must navigate a series of comical encounters with the mobster’s quirky family and associates, all of whom are also trying to find the fortune.

Filmed before ‘The Graduate’ but released after, ‘Madigan’s Millions’ did not achieve the same level of success. However, it shows Hoffman in a lighter, more slapstick role, further demonstrating his range even at the very beginning of his film career.

Midnight Cowboy (1969)

Hoffman delivered one of his most iconic performances as Enrico Salvatore “Ratso” Rizzo, a limping, sickly con man in New York City. Ratso forms an unlikely and deeply moving friendship with Joe Buck, a naive Texan who has come to the city with dreams of becoming a male prostitute.

Hoffman’s physical transformation and gritty, naturalistic portrayal earned him another Academy Award nomination. He completely embodied the character, from his distinctive shuffle to his fast-talking dialect. The film itself made history as the only X-rated movie to win the Oscar for Best Picture.

John and Mary (1969)

This film explores the burgeoning relationship between two people, John and Mary, who meet in a bar and spend the night together. The movie follows them over the next day as they get to know each other, with their inner thoughts and past relationships revealed through flashbacks and fantasy sequences.

Playing opposite Mia Farrow, Hoffman delivers a subtle and introspective performance as a man cautiously navigating the uncertainties of a new romance. The film was noted for its contemporary take on modern relationships and its focus on the small, intimate moments that build a connection.

Little Big Man (1970)

In this epic Western, Dustin Hoffman gives a remarkable performance as Jack Crabb, a 121-year-old man recounting his life story. Crabb’s tale is an extraordinary one, having been captured by Cheyenne Indians as a boy and later moving between the worlds of the white settlers and Native Americans.

Hoffman impressively portrays Crabb at various stages of his life, from a young man to an elderly survivor. The film is both a sweeping adventure and a sharp satire of Western myths, with Hoffman’s versatile performance anchoring the entire narrative.

Who Is Harry Kellerman and Why Is He Saying Those Terrible Things About Me? (1971)

Dustin Hoffman stars as Georgie Soloway, a rich and successful rock songwriter who finds himself in a state of existential crisis. As he contemplates suicide, he reflects on his life, his failed relationships, and his career, all while trying to figure out the identity of a mysterious man named Harry Kellerman who is spreading rumors about him.

This surreal and introspective film features a complex, neurotic performance from Hoffman. He captures the paranoia and emptiness of a man who seems to have everything but feels nothing, making it one of his most challenging and unconventional roles of the era.

Straw Dogs (1971)

In this controversial and violent thriller, Hoffman plays David Sumner, a quiet American mathematician who moves to his wife’s hometown in rural England to escape the social upheaval in the United States. His peaceful existence is shattered when he and his wife are targeted and terrorized by a group of local men.

Hoffman’s character undergoes a dramatic transformation from a meek, passive intellectual to a man forced to defend his home and principles through brutal violence. The film’s intense and unsettling climax, and Hoffman’s portrayal of a man pushed to his breaking point, sparked considerable debate and remain powerful and disturbing.

Alfredo, Alfredo (1972)

This Italian comedy directed by Pietro Germi stars Dustin Hoffman as Alfredo, a shy bank clerk in Italy. The film follows his persistent and comical attempts to court a beautiful woman, only to find himself trapped in a miserable marriage after they wed. He then desperately seeks a way to get a divorce.

Hoffman, speaking Italian for the role, showcases his comedic timing in a film that satirizes Italian marriage and divorce laws of the time. It is a lighter, more farcical role compared to his intense work in the early ’70s and demonstrates his willingness to work with international directors.

Papillon (1973)

In this classic prison escape film, Hoffman plays Louis Dega, a brilliant forger and fellow prisoner of Henri “Papillon” Charrière at a brutal penal colony in French Guiana. Dega, physically weak but wealthy, forms a crucial alliance with Papillon, using his resources to help fund their escape attempts in exchange for protection.

Hoffman provides a compelling and sympathetic performance as the unlikely friend and partner to Steve McQueen’s character. His portrayal of Dega’s quiet resilience and intellectual fortitude provides a perfect contrast to Papillon’s physical strength and indomitable will to be free.

Lenny (1974)

Dustin Hoffman earned another Academy Award nomination for his searing portrayal of the controversial and groundbreaking comedian Lenny Bruce. The film, shot in black and white, traces Bruce’s rise to fame, his battles with obscenity charges, and his eventual tragic downfall due to drug addiction.

Hoffman masterfully recreated Bruce’s iconic stand-up routines and captured the comedian’s righteous anger and tormented private life. His performance is a powerful tribute to a free-speech martyr and a raw, unflinching look at the price of provocation.

All the President’s Men (1976)

In this acclaimed political thriller, Hoffman stars as Carl Bernstein, one half of the Washington Post investigative reporting duo that uncovered the Watergate scandal. Alongside Robert Redford as Bob Woodward, the film meticulously details their persistent investigation that ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.

Hoffman’s portrayal of the tenacious and slightly neurotic Bernstein is pitch-perfect, capturing the relentless drive of a journalist chasing the biggest story in American history. The film is a masterclass in suspense and is celebrated for its commitment to historical accuracy and its gripping narrative.

Marathon Man (1976)

Hoffman plays Thomas “Babe” Levy, a Ph.D. candidate and marathon runner in New York City who becomes unwittingly entangled in a dangerous plot involving a Nazi war criminal. The film is famous for its intense and terrifying torture scene where the villain repeatedly asks, “Is it safe?”

Hoffman delivers a gripping performance as an ordinary man pushed into extraordinary and harrowing circumstances. His physical commitment to the role, including his running, and his convincing portrayal of fear and endurance make this one of the most memorable thrillers of the 1970s.

Straight Time (1978)

Dustin Hoffman stars as Max Dembo, a career criminal who is released from prison determined to go straight. However, he finds himself continually humiliated and provoked by his cruel parole officer, which pushes him back into a life of crime. Hoffman also served as a producer on the film.

This gritty, realistic crime drama features a tough and understated performance from Hoffman. He captures the simmering rage and quiet desperation of a man trapped by the system, and the film is admired for its authentic depiction of criminal life.

Agatha (1979)

In this fictionalized mystery, Dustin Hoffman plays Wally Stanton, an American journalist who becomes intrigued by the real-life 11-day disappearance of famed mystery writer Agatha Christie in 1926. Stanton tracks her to a spa town and attempts to uncover the reason for her mysterious vanishing act.

Hoffman brings a charming and curious energy to his role, acting as the audience’s guide through a stylish and speculative story. The film blends historical fact with fictional romance and intrigue, with Hoffman playing the catalyst who unravels the central mystery.

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Dustin Hoffman won his first Academy Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance as Ted Kramer, a workaholic advertising executive. His life is turned upside down when his wife leaves him, forcing him to learn how to be a single parent to their young son. He then faces a bitter custody battle when she returns.

Hoffman’s portrayal of Ted’s transformation from an absent, career-focused father to a loving and capable parent is deeply moving and nuanced. The film was a cultural phenomenon, resonating with millions and sparking a national conversation about fatherhood, divorce, and gender roles.

Tootsie (1982)

In this celebrated comedy, Hoffman plays Michael Dorsey, a brilliant but notoriously difficult actor who can’t find work. In a desperate move, he auditions for a role on a daytime soap opera as a woman, Dorothy Michaels, and to his shock, lands the part and becomes a national sensation.

Hoffman’s dual performance is a comedic tour de force, earning him another Oscar nomination. He masterfully balances the farcical elements of his situation with a genuine exploration of sexism and identity, creating a character that is both hilarious and beloved.

Ishtar (1987)

Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty star as Lyle Rogers and Chuck Clarke, a pair of untalented and hapless lounge singers. After accepting a gig in Morocco, they become unwittingly entangled in a Cold War plot involving the CIA, a beautiful revolutionary, and a map that could trigger a political uprising in the fictional nation of Ishtar.

Despite its notorious reputation as a major box office failure, the film has gained a cult following over the years. Hoffman commits fully to his role as the comically insecure and awkward songwriter, and his musical performances with Beatty are intentionally and hilariously bad.

Rain Man (1988)

Hoffman won his second Academy Award for his iconic portrayal of Raymond Babbitt, an autistic savant with an extraordinary memory and a strict adherence to routine. His world is disrupted when his selfish younger brother, Charlie, takes him on a cross-country road trip, hoping to gain control of their late father’s fortune.

Hoffman’s performance is a masterwork of precision and sensitivity, born from extensive research and observation. He brought a profound humanity to a character that could have been a caricature, and the film won four Oscars, including Best Picture, while significantly raising public awareness of autism.

Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt (1989)

Dustin Hoffman serves as the narrator for this powerful and heartbreaking documentary about the AIDS epidemic. The film tells the stories of five individuals who died of the disease, each one memorialized with a panel on the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt.

Hoffman’s steady and compassionate narration guides the viewer through these deeply personal stories of love, loss, and remembrance. The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and remains a vital historical document of the human cost of the AIDS crisis.

Family Business (1989)

This crime caper brings together three generations of a family, with Dustin Hoffman playing Vito McMullen, the son of a career criminal and the father of a college student. Despite his efforts to lead a legitimate life, Vito is drawn back into the world of crime when his son proposes a “perfect” heist.

Starring alongside Sean Connery and Matthew Broderick, Hoffman portrays a man caught between his criminal roots and his desire for a respectable life. The film explores themes of family loyalty and legacy, with Hoffman as the conflicted link between the past and the future.

Dick Tracy (1990)

In Warren Beatty’s stylish and vibrant adaptation of the classic comic strip, Dustin Hoffman has a memorable cameo as Mumbles. True to his name, Mumbles is a fast-talking, virtually incomprehensible informant for the mob.

Hoffman is nearly unrecognizable under heavy prosthetics and makeup, and he delivers a hilarious, rapid-fire performance of mostly unintelligible dialogue. His brief appearance is a standout comedic moment in a film filled with colorful and eccentric characters played by a star-studded cast.

Billy Bathgate (1991)

Hoffman plays the infamous real-life mobster Dutch Schultz in this 1930s-era crime drama. The story is told from the perspective of a young man, Billy Bathgate, who becomes Schultz’s protégé and witnesses his violent and unpredictable reign during the last days of his criminal empire.

Hoffman portrays Schultz as a man of terrifying volatility, capable of both charm and brutal violence. His performance captures the paranoia and menace of a gangster whose time is running out, making him a formidable and frightening presence.

Hook (1991)

In this fantasy adventure, Dustin Hoffman takes on the role of the iconic villain Captain Hook. The film follows a grown-up Peter Pan, now a corporate lawyer with no memory of his past, who must return to Neverland to rescue his children from his old nemesis.

Hoffman is clearly having a blast playing the flamboyant and theatrical pirate, complete with an elaborate wig, a menacing hook, and a comically short temper. His over-the-top performance is both funny and genuinely threatening, creating a memorable villain for a new generation.

Hero (1992)

Hoffman stars as Bernie LaPlante, a small-time, cynical crook who anonymously rescues 54 people from a plane crash. When another, more charismatic man mistakenly receives the credit and is celebrated as a national hero, Bernie, with the help of a determined journalist, tries to claim his reward.

This satirical comedy explores the nature of heroism and the media’s role in shaping public perception. Hoffman is perfectly cast as the cantankerous anti-hero who learns that doing the right thing is more complicated than he thought.

Outbreak (1995)

In this tense thriller, Hoffman plays Colonel Sam Daniels, a dedicated U.S. Army virologist. He races against time to find a cure for a deadly, fast-spreading virus that has been brought to a small town in California from Africa.

Hoffman leads an all-star cast in a gripping story about a pandemic crisis. He convincingly portrays the urgency and desperation of a scientist fighting both a lethal disease and bureaucratic obstacles to prevent a global catastrophe.

Sleepers (1996)

Dustin Hoffman plays Danny Snyder, a washed-up, alcoholic defense lawyer in this grim legal drama. He is hired to defend two men who are on trial for murdering a security guard, who was one of the guards who brutally abused them in a juvenile detention center years earlier.

Hoffman’s portrayal of the weary but determined lawyer provides a key emotional anchor in a story about friendship, trauma, and revenge. He delivers a subtle and moving performance, and his closing argument in the courtroom is a powerful and memorable scene.

American Buffalo (1996)

Based on the David Mamet play, this film features Hoffman as Walt “Teach” Teacher, one of three small-time crooks planning to steal a valuable coin collection. The entire film takes place in a junk shop as the trio’s paranoia and mistrust cause their simple plan to unravel.

Hoffman delivers a powerful, dialogue-driven performance, perfectly capturing the explosive anger and pathetic desperation of his character. He fully embraces Mamet’s distinctively rhythmic and profane language, creating a tense and compelling character study.

Mad City (1997)

Hoffman plays Max Brackett, a once-prominent television journalist who is now working for a small local station. He stumbles upon a major story when a fired museum security guard takes a group of schoolchildren hostage, and Max manipulates the situation to revive his career.

Paired with John Travolta, Hoffman portrays a man whose professional ambition conflicts with his conscience. The film is a sharp satire of media sensationalism and the 24-hour news cycle, with Hoffman showing the moral compromises made in the pursuit of a story.

Wag the Dog (1997)

In this sharp political satire, Hoffman stars as Stanley Motss, a legendary Hollywood producer. He is hired by a White House spin doctor to invent a fake war with Albania to distract the public from a presidential sex scandal just days before an election.

Hoffman earned an Academy Award nomination for his hilarious and brilliant performance as the egocentric and endlessly creative producer. His character is a masterful manipulator of images and narratives, comically illustrating the thin line between politics and show business.

Sphere (1998)

In this science-fiction thriller, Hoffman plays Dr. Norman Goodman, a psychologist who is called upon by the U.S. Navy to lead a team of scientists. They are sent to the bottom of the Pacific Ocean to investigate a mysterious and massive spacecraft that has been discovered there.

As the team explores the alien vessel and the strange sphere inside it, they begin to experience their deepest fears manifested as reality. Hoffman anchors the film as the rational but increasingly terrified leader trying to understand the psychological power they have encountered.

A Walk on the Moon (1999)

For this film, Dustin Hoffman stepped behind the camera, serving as one of the producers. He did not appear on screen in the movie. The film is a coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1969, centering on a young wife and mother who embarks on an affair during a family vacation.

The project highlights Hoffman’s interest in supporting character-driven stories. His role as a producer demonstrates his commitment to fostering filmmaking talent and helping to bring compelling narratives to the screen.

The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)

In this epic historical drama, Hoffman plays the mysterious and symbolic role of The Conscience. He appears to Joan of Arc during her trial, questioning her faith and forcing her to confront her doubts and the true nature of her divine visions.

Hoffman’s quiet and enigmatic performance provides a powerful, thought-provoking counterpoint to the film’s intense battle sequences. In his scenes, the film shifts from historical epic to an internal, psychological drama about faith and identity.

Tuesday (2001)

This animated short film features Dustin Hoffman in a voice role. The story is a whimsical fantasy based on the children’s book by David Wiesner, in which frogs in a suburban neighborhood are suddenly able to fly on their lily pads, leading to a magical and mischievous night.

Hoffman’s narration adds a sense of wonder and gentle humor to this imaginative and charming tale. It is a brief but delightful example of his work in the world of animation.

Moonlight Mile (2002)

Hoffman co-stars as Ben Floss, a man grieving the recent murder of his daughter. He and his wife take in their daughter’s fiancé, and together the three of them navigate their grief and try to find a way to move forward in the wake of the tragedy.

Hoffman delivers a warm and deeply touching performance as a man trying to hold his life together while dealing with unimaginable loss. He perfectly balances the character’s sorrow with moments of humor and strength, creating a realistic and relatable portrait of grief.

Confidence (2003)

In this stylish crime thriller, Hoffman plays Winston King, a flamboyant and eccentric crime boss. A group of con artists accidentally swindles one of King’s accountants, and he forces them to pull off a massive and complex corporate heist to pay him back.

Hoffman is clearly having fun playing the menacing but quirky villain. His unpredictable and theatrical performance adds a unique energy to the film, making him a memorable and entertaining antagonist.

Runaway Jury (2003)

Based on the John Grisham novel, this legal thriller pits two legal titans against each other in a high-stakes gun-control lawsuit. Hoffman plays Wendell Rohr, a principled and passionate lawyer for the plaintiff, who goes up against a ruthless jury consultant hired by the gun manufacturers.

Hoffman’s portrayal of the idealistic and ethical lawyer provides the moral center of the film. His scenes opposite Gene Hackman as his calculating adversary are a highlight, showcasing two legendary actors at the top of their game.

Finding Neverland (2004)

In this biographical fantasy drama, Hoffman plays Charles Frohman, the skeptical but supportive theater producer for playwright J.M. Barrie. Frohman is initially doubtful of Barrie’s new play, ‘Peter Pan’, but his faith in the writer ultimately helps bring the magical story to the stage.

Hoffman provides a grounded and stabilizing presence in the film, portraying Frohman as a practical businessman with a hidden appreciation for artistry and imagination. His performance adds a layer of warmth and gentle humor to the story.

I Heart Huckabees (2004)

Hoffman co-stars in this quirky existential comedy as Bernard Jaffe, one half of a husband-and-wife team of “existential detectives.” They are hired by a young environmentalist to investigate the meaning of a series of coincidences in his life.

Playing opposite Lily Tomlin, Hoffman embraces the film’s eccentric and philosophical humor. His character’s gentle and unconventional methods of therapy are a central part of this unique and thought-provoking film about the search for meaning.

Meet the Fockers (2004)

In the sequel to ‘Meet the Parents’, Hoffman plays Bernie Focker, the free-spirited and unconventional father of Greg Focker. Bernie and his wife, a sex therapist, are the complete opposites of their son’s conservative and uptight in-laws, leading to a hilarious culture clash.

Hoffman’s warm, funny, and laid-back performance as the stay-at-home dad was a comedic highlight. Paired with Barbra Streisand, he provided the perfect foil to Robert De Niro’s character, and their scenes together are some of the most memorable in the successful franchise.

Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)

Dustin Hoffman makes a brief, uncredited cameo appearance in this dark fantasy film based on the popular children’s book series. He appears as The Critic, a patron at a play who is seen taking notes during a performance.

His appearance is a fun, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment for eagle-eyed viewers. It is a small nod from a cinematic legend within a film filled with creative and theatrical visuals.

Racing Stripes (2005)

In this family comedy, Dustin Hoffman provides the voice for Tucker, a grumpy but wise Shetland pony. Tucker helps train Stripes, an abandoned zebra who dreams of becoming a racehorse and competing against thoroughbreds.

Hoffman’s voice work brings a world-weary and cynical charm to the character of Tucker. He serves as the classic mentor figure, offering tough love and sage advice to the film’s determined young hero.

The Lost City (2005)

Directed by and starring Andy Garcia, this film centers on a wealthy Cuban family whose lives are torn apart by the Cuban Revolution. Hoffman has a supporting role as the real-life American mobster Meyer Lansky, who was a major figure in Cuba’s casino business in the 1950s.

Hoffman delivers a coolly menacing performance as the powerful and calculating gangster. His scenes are brief but impactful, and he effectively captures the aura of a man who wields immense power from the shadows.

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)

In this dark and visually stunning fantasy thriller, Hoffman plays Giuseppe Baldini, a once-great perfumer in 18th-century Paris whose career is fading. He takes on a strange and gifted young man as his apprentice, not realizing he is a murderer who seeks to capture the scent of women.

Hoffman’s performance as the washed-up, opportunistic perfumer adds a crucial element to the story. He provides a brief, tragicomic interlude before the plot descends into its much darker and more obsessive main narrative.

Stranger than Fiction (2006)

Hoffman plays Professor Jules Hilbert, a literary expert who is contacted by a man who has suddenly started hearing an author narrating his life. Hilbert helps the man figure out what kind of story he is in and, more importantly, whether it is a comedy or a tragedy that ends in his death.

In this inventive fantasy-comedy, Hoffman’s character is the key to unlocking the central mystery. His dry wit and intellectual curiosity provide many of the film’s best moments as he guides the main character through the rules of literature to save his life.

The Holiday (2006)

Dustin Hoffman makes a brief, uncredited cameo as himself in this popular romantic comedy. He appears in a video store scene where Kate Winslet’s character is talking with another character, an elderly screenwriter, about classic movies.

The fun, meta-moment shows Hoffman browsing for movies, and the characters comment on his appearance. It’s a charming nod to his legendary status within the world of cinema.

Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium (2007)

Hoffman stars as Mr. Edward Magorium, the 243-year-old owner of a magical toy store where the toys have a life of their own. When the eccentric and whimsical Mr. Magorium announces his intention to leave, he must pass the store on to his insecure young manager.

Hoffman gives a quirky and child-like performance as the mysterious and good-hearted shop owner. He embodies the sense of wonder and magic that is at the heart of this family-friendly fantasy film.

Kung Fu Panda (2008)

In this massively successful animated film, Hoffman provides the voice for Master Shifu, a red panda and the stern, disciplined kung fu master who trains the Dragon Warrior. He is initially dismayed when a clumsy and food-obsessed panda is chosen for the role, but he learns to become a true teacher.

Hoffman’s voice work perfectly captures Shifu’s journey from a rigid and skeptical master to a wise and patient mentor. He brings both gravitas and comedic frustration to the character, making Shifu a fan favorite in the beloved franchise.

Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five (2008)

This animated short film serves as a companion to the first ‘Kung Fu Panda’ movie. Dustin Hoffman reprises his voice role as Master Shifu, who now has the task of teaching a new class of young, energetic bunny children the principles of kung fu.

To keep them focused, Shifu tells the stories of the Furious Five and the virtues they each had to learn to become kung fu masters. Hoffman’s performance once again provides the wise and patient center of the story.

Last Chance Harvey (2008)

Hoffman stars as Harvey Shine, a down-on-his-luck jingle writer who travels to London for his daughter’s wedding, only to feel sidelined by his family. After missing his flight home, he has a chance encounter with a lonely woman, and they spend a day together that changes both of their lives.

In this gentle and mature romantic drama, Hoffman delivers a poignant and relatable performance as a man searching for a second chance. His chemistry with co-star Emma Thompson is the heart of the film, creating a warm and believable connection.

The Tale of Despereaux (2008)

In this animated fantasy film, Hoffman lends his voice to the character of Roscuro, a curious rat who loves the light. After a tragic accident gets him banished to the darkness of the dungeons, his path becomes entangled with that of a brave little mouse and a lonely princess.

Hoffman’s voice performance captures Roscuro’s complex journey from an innocent creature to a bitter and vengeful outcast, and finally to a character seeking redemption. He brings a mix of charm and pathos to this morally complicated character.

Barney’s Version (2010)

Based on the novel by Mordecai Richler, this film stars Paul Giamatti as the cantankerous Barney Panofsky, who reflects on his colorful and messy life. Dustin Hoffman plays Barney’s father, Izzy, a retired and irreverent cop who offers his son blunt and often hilarious advice.

Hoffman’s performance as the foul-mouthed but deeply loving father earned him critical praise. He provides many of the film’s warmest and funniest moments, and his supportive relationship with his son is the story’s emotional core.

Jews and Baseball: An American Love Story (2010)

Dustin Hoffman serves as the narrator for this documentary that explores the connection between Jewish culture and America’s national pastime. The film chronicles the history of Jewish baseball players, from the early days of the sport to modern stars like Sandy Koufax and Shawn Green.

Hoffman’s narration guides the audience through this fascinating piece of American cultural history. He brings a warm and engaging tone to the stories of players who broke barriers and became heroes in their communities.

Little Fockers (2010)

Hoffman reprises his role as the easygoing Bernie Focker in the third installment of the ‘Meet the Parents’ franchise. The film sees the Focker and Byrnes families coming together once again, this time for the children’s birthday party, with predictable and chaotic results.

Although his role is smaller in this film, Hoffman still provides plenty of comedic relief as the free-spirited Bernie. His relaxed and playful energy once again serves as the perfect contrast to Robert De Niro’s perpetually suspicious character.

Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)

Dustin Hoffman returns as the voice of Master Shifu in the action-packed animated sequel. This time, Po and the Furious Five must face a new villain who possesses a powerful weapon that threatens the existence of kung fu itself.

As Po’s mentor, Shifu guides him in the search for inner peace, a crucial skill needed to defeat his new enemy. Hoffman’s performance continues to provide the wisdom and emotional depth that grounds the high-energy action of the series.

Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters (2011)

In another animated short film from the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ universe, Hoffman once again voices Master Shifu. The story serves as a prequel, with Shifu telling Po the origin stories of three legendary kung fu masters.

The short film explores themes of discipline, patience, and courage. Hoffman’s voice work as Shifu continues to embody the wise teacher figure at the heart of the franchise’s storytelling.

Quartet (2012)

This film marked Dustin Hoffman’s directorial debut. The story is set in a retirement home for former professional musicians and centers on a group of opera singers who are planning their annual fundraising concert. Their plans are disrupted by the arrival of a new resident, who is the former wife of one of the singers.

Hoffman does not appear in the film, but his work behind the camera was praised for its warmth, charm, and gentle humor. He skillfully guided a cast of veteran British actors, creating a heartfelt and uplifting film about aging, art, and second chances.

Chef (2014)

In this feel-good comedy, Hoffman has a small but memorable role as Riva, the stuffy owner of the upscale restaurant where the main character works. Riva’s refusal to allow his chef to cook creatively is the event that sets the entire plot in motion.

Hoffman’s performance as the controlling and business-minded restaurant owner provides the perfect obstacle for the film’s hero to overcome. His brief scenes effectively establish the conflict that forces the main character to rediscover his passion for cooking on his own terms.

Boychoir (2014)

Hoffman stars as Carvelle, the demanding and brilliant choirmaster at a prestigious boarding school for boys with musical talent. He takes a troubled but gifted young boy under his wing, pushing him to realize his potential.

Hoffman delivers a powerful performance as the tough but fair mentor who sees greatness in his student. He convincingly portrays a man dedicated to the pursuit of artistic perfection, and his scenes with the young lead actor are the heart of the film.

The Cobbler (2014)

In this fantasy comedy-drama, Hoffman has a supporting role as Abraham Simkin, the elderly father of the main character, a lonely shoe cobbler. The film follows the son after he discovers a magical heirloom that allows him to physically become his customers by wearing their shoes.

Hoffman’s character appears in flashbacks and as a memory, representing the legacy and history of the family business. His presence provides a sense of warmth and tradition in a quirky and imaginative story.

The Program (2015)

This biographical drama chronicles the rise of cyclist Lance Armstrong and the elaborate doping scandal that led to his downfall. Hoffman has a supporting role as Bob Hamman, an insurance executive who is part of a company that offers a bonus to Armstrong if he wins the Tour de France multiple times.

Hoffman’s character represents the corporate interests that become entangled in the massive deception. His role is small but significant, illustrating the far-reaching consequences of the scandal.

Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Scroll (2016)

In this animated short film, Hoffman reprises his voice role as Master Shifu and also voices the character of Warrior. The story explains how the Furious Five were accidentally brought together by a younger Tigress, leading them to discover their destiny.

Set before the events of the first film, this short provides more backstory for the beloved characters. Hoffman’s voice work continues to be a key element of the franchise’s charm and humor.

Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016)

Dustin Hoffman returns as the voice of Master Shifu in the third installment of the animated franchise. In this film, Po is reunited with his long-lost panda father and must train a village full of clumsy pandas to fight a supernatural villain.

Shifu’s role in this film is to guide Po on his journey from student to teacher. Hoffman’s performance continues to add a layer of wisdom and emotional resonance to the series, balancing the action and comedy with moments of genuine mentorship.

The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)

In this comedy-drama from Noah Baumbach, Hoffman gives a critically acclaimed performance as Harold Meyerowitz. He is the aging and cantankerous patriarch of a dysfunctional artistic family, a sculptor whose passive-aggressive nature and self-absorption have deeply affected his adult children.

Hoffman’s portrayal of the difficult and complex Harold was praised as one of his best late-career performances. He perfectly captured the character’s mix of artistic arrogance, charm, and painful vulnerability, creating a deeply human and unforgettable character.

Into the Labyrinth (2019)

In this Italian thriller, Hoffman plays Doctor Green, a criminal profiler who is interrogating a young woman who has escaped from a brutal kidnapping. As she recounts her ordeal inside a mysterious underground labyrinth, Doctor Green tries to piece together the clues to find her captor.

Hoffman delivers a subtle and intelligent performance as the determined profiler. The film is a dark and twisting psychological mystery, with Hoffman’s character guiding the audience through the puzzle of the victim’s fragmented memories.

As They Made Us (2022)

This family drama centers on a divorced mother trying to make peace with her dysfunctional family as her father’s health rapidly declines. Hoffman plays Eugene, the father, whose degenerative illness forces the family to confront their painful past and complicated relationships.

Hoffman gives a moving and sensitive portrayal of a man losing his physical and mental faculties. His performance is a raw and honest look at the effects of illness on a family, and his scenes convey deep emotion often without the need for dialogue.

Sam & Kate (2022)

In this romantic comedy-drama, Hoffman stars as Bill, a man whose health is declining. He is cared for by his son, Sam, who falls for a local woman named Kate. At the same time, Bill begins to form a connection with Kate’s mother.

The film brings Hoffman and his real-life son, Jake Hoffman, together on screen as father and son. It is a warm and gentle story about finding love and connection at any stage of life, and Hoffman’s performance is filled with charm and vulnerability.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

Dustin Hoffman once again lends his voice to Master Shifu in the latest chapter of the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ saga. In this adventure, Po is tasked with finding his successor as the Dragon Warrior, while also facing a new shapeshifting villain who seeks to steal the abilities of past masters.

Although his role is smaller in this installment, Shifu’s presence is still vital. He continues to serve as Po’s wise and often exasperated mentor, providing guidance and pushing the hero toward his next stage of growth.

Megalopolis (2024)

Hoffman is part of the large ensemble cast in Francis Ford Coppola’s long-awaited, self-funded passion project. ‘Megalopolis’ is an epic science fiction drama about an idealistic architect who wants to rebuild a New York City-like metropolis as a utopia after a catastrophe, putting him in conflict with the city’s corrupt mayor.

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival to a deeply divided critical reception, with some hailing its ambition and others criticizing its chaotic nature. Hoffman’s involvement in such a monumental and debated film reaffirms his status as an actor drawn to ambitious and visionary projects.

From his first role to his latest, Dustin Hoffman has built a filmography unlike any other; share in the comments which one of his characters has stayed with you the most.