It comes as no surprise that legendary actor Jack Nicholson has appeared in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films. With a career spanning more than six decades, Nicholson has been captivating audiences with his powerful performances and versatile acting range. The nine-time Oscar nominated actor is known for his classic roles in films such as The Shining, A Few Good Men, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Chinatown, and The Departed.
Here’s a look at some of the most noteworthy Jack Nicholson movies.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is widely regarded as Nicholson’s greatest performance of all time. The film, based on the novel written by Ken Kesey, tells the story of a criminal who is offered the option of a prison sentence or being committed to a mental hospital. Nicholson’s portrayal of the mischievous, yet charming patient named McMurphy earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor and solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.
The Shining (1980)
No list of Jack Nicholson movies is complete without The Shining. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, Nicholson plays Jack Torrance, an aspiring novelist and recovering alcoholic who takes a job as a caretaker at the secluded Overlook Hotel. When Jack’s new job interferes with his family life, strange occurrences start to take place, leading to a terrifying climax. Nicholson’s memorable performance as the disturbed and often violent Torrance made this horror classic one of the most iconic films ever.
The Departed (2006)
A remake of the classic Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs, The Departed follows a group of undercover law enforcement agents as they attempt to take down a dangerous mob boss played by Nicholson. The film, which was nominated for five Academy Awards, features a stellar cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Mark Wahlberg. Nicholson’s performance as the ruthless mob boss is especially noteworthy and elevated this action-packed crime drama.
A Few Good Men (1992)
One of Nicholson’s most famous roles, A Few Good Men follows two Marines accused of killing a fellow Marine in Guantanamo Bay. Nicholson, playing the role of Colonel Jessup, delivers one of his most memorable lines in the movie, “You can’t handle the truth”. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination and firmly established him as a trailblazer in Hollywood.
Chinatown (1974)
Directed by Roman Polanski, Chinatown tells the story of private detective Jake Gittes, played by Nicholson, hired to investigate a case involving political corruption. As Gittes investigates deeper, he eventually finds himself drawn into a web of intrigue and murder. Nicholson’s nuanced performance as the tough yet frazzled detective was praised by critics, earning him his second Academy Award nomination.
Other Notable Jack Nicholson Movies
Although the above Jack Nicholson movies are his most well-known, there are a few other films worth mentioning that further highlight the actor’s incredible range. Easy Rider (1969), The Last Detail (1973), Batman (1989), The Bucket List (2007), How Do You Know (2010) and Anger Management (2003) are just a few of Nicholson’s many memorable roles.
Jack Nicholson’s Enduring Legacy
After decades of memorable and iconic performances, it’s no wonder Nicholson is considered one of Hollywood’s greatest living actors. His career has spanned generations, and his impact on the film industry can still be felt today. Although he has not appeared in a new motion picture since 2010, Jack Nicholson’s legacy as one of the the most iconic and influential actors of the 20th century will remain for generations to come.
