01 A villain role that shows real range against his usual leading-man work.
Ethan Hawke – 10 Best Movies
By Vlad Zakh · August 25, 2025
Before Sunrise remains the film that best shows what he does well, two people talking for ninety minutes and somehow it’s riveting. Training Day gave him an equally strong, much darker showcase.
01 
02 A high-concept horror premise he grounds with real, panicked stakes.
03 A defining Gen X romantic comedy-drama of its exact moment.
04 One of his most internal, devastating performances in years.
05 An early, formative role in one of the most beloved school dramas made.
06 Filmed over twelve real years, and his performance ages along with it.
07 A quiet, controlled sci-fi drama about genetic determinism.
08 The sequel that somehow improves on an already great original.
09 A dirty-cop thriller anchored by one of the great villain performances opposite him.
10 Two strangers, one night in Vienna, and almost nothing but conversation.
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