Best Robert Duvall Movies, Ranked

Robert Duvall is considered one of the greatest and most adaptable actors in film history. For over sixty years, he’s created unforgettable characters in many important movies, excelling in both leading and supporting roles. He consistently delivers powerful and believable performances. This collection showcases the work of a true Hollywood icon and Academy Award winner.

‘The Betsy’ (1978)

Robert Duvall stars as a determined executive in the car business. The story revolves around a wealthy family’s efforts to create a new, fuel-efficient vehicle. He plays a manager hired to navigate the family’s disagreements and the company’s goals. Based on a novel by Harold Robbins, the film delves into the worlds of corporate corruption and scandalous relationships.

‘Lady Liberty’ (1971)

In this comedy, Robert Duvall plays the fiancé of a woman from Italy who arrives in the US with a very large sausage. As a New York restaurant owner, he gets caught in a frustrating situation at the airport when customs officials try to confiscate her unusual gift. The story centers on her stubborn refusal to give up the sausage, which she sees as a symbol of her heritage, and explores the humorous clashes between European and American cultures. Duvall plays a supporting role in the film.

‘Assassination Tango’ (2002)

In the film, Robert Duvall portrays a hitman sent to Buenos Aires for a job. While he waits to carry out the hit, he becomes captivated by tango dancing. He connects with a local tango instructor who shares the dance and culture with him. The movie is a deep look into the assassin’s mind as he unexpectedly begins to feel emotions he hasn’t before.

‘The Light at the Edge of the World’ (1971)

In this film, Robert Duvall powerfully portrays a brutal pirate captain who seizes control of a lighthouse on a secluded island. A dangerous battle for survival begins between him and the lighthouse keeper who managed to avoid the initial attack. Adapted from a story by Jules Verne, the movie is filled with thrilling action scenes set against a harsh, rocky coastline. Duvall delivers a compelling performance as the film’s menacing villain.

‘Countdown’ (1967)

Robert Duvall stars as an ordinary man chosen for a top-secret program to win the space race against the Soviet Union. He’s competing with an experienced pilot for the historic opportunity to be the first person to walk on the moon. The movie explores the intense mental strain and difficult technical hurdles the astronauts face throughout their mission. Duvall’s character is a driven and determined hopeful, battling the pressure of this high-stakes competition.

‘Badge 373’ (1973)

In this film, Robert Duvall stars as a police officer on suspension who begins investigating the murder of his old partner. His search for the killers takes him deep into the dangerous criminal world of New York City. The story is based on the true experiences of a detective and aims for a realistic and hard-edged feel. Duvall gives a powerful performance as a determined man who isn’t afraid to bend the rules to get justice.

‘The Killer Elite’ (1975)

Robert Duvall stars as a security expert who double-crosses his colleague for a large sum of money. The movie then centers on the betrayed partner as he recovers and sets out to get even, while also trying to finish a risky assignment. Duvall’s character is a ruthless and pragmatic professional motivated solely by profit. Expect exciting action sequences and a look into the dangerous lives of international mercenaries.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (1990)

This film, based on the well-known novel, features Robert Duvall as the leader of a controlling, futuristic society. He plays a powerful figure in the Republic of Gilead, where women who can have children are forced to become servants. The Commander starts a secret affair with one of these handmaids, breaking the strict rules of their society. Duvall’s performance perfectly shows the subtle threat and power of a man fully committed to a rigid, religious system.

‘A Night in Old Mexico’ (2013)

After being forced to retire and losing his ranch, an aging Texan embarks on one last adventure. Robert Duvall stars as the determined rancher who reconnects with his grandson on a road trip into Mexico. Along the way, they run into trouble with dangerous criminals and become caught up in a failed drug transaction. This journey becomes a poignant exploration of growing older and the importance of living life independently.

‘Days of Thunder’ (1990)

Robert Duvall stars as a seasoned pit crew chief who returns to racing to build a championship-winning car. He takes a gifted but impulsive young driver under his wing, guiding him through the competitive world of stock car racing. Together, they must confront their past mistakes and get ready for a crucial championship race. Duvall portrays the veteran with a compelling mix of experience and determination, truly understanding what it takes to win.

‘Deep Impact’ (1998)

In this thrilling disaster movie, Robert Duvall stars as a seasoned astronaut leading a dangerous mission to save Earth from a massive comet. He and a team of younger pilots must land on the comet and detonate nuclear bombs to change its course. The film depicts how the world reacts to the threat of total destruction and the bravery of those willing to risk everything. Duvall plays a calm and resolute leader facing what could be his last mission.

‘Joe Kidd’ (1972)

In the film, Robert Duvall portrays a rich landowner who employs a seasoned bounty hunter to find and stop a band of Mexican revolutionaries. Duvall’s character is a cold, determined businessman who will do anything to defend his land and wealth. As the bounty hunter pursues his task, he starts to doubt whether his employers are truly justified in their actions. Duvall’s performance powerfully captures the self-assuredness and dominance of a powerful man on the frontier.

‘Phenomenon’ (1996)

Robert Duvall portrays the town doctor, a fatherly figure, in a story about a man who unexpectedly becomes incredibly intelligent. He witnesses the changes – both physical and social – that happen after the man is exposed to a strange light. Even as the townspeople grow fearful of the man’s newfound powers, the doctor remains a steadfast friend. Duvall’s character grounds the story emotionally, offering a relatable perspective as everyone struggles to understand what’s happening.

‘A Civil Action’ (1998)

Robert Duvall delivers a compelling performance as a sharp, unconventional lawyer defending a large company in a crucial case. The story centers around a lawyer who puts everything on the line to demonstrate that a company’s waste polluted the town’s water. Duvall plays his character with a clever and strategic mind, making him a powerful adversary in court, and his performance has been widely praised for its subtle and realistic portrayal of an experienced legal professional.

‘The Seven-Per-Cent Solution’ (1976)

This Sherlock Holmes story offers a fresh take on the classic characters, with Robert Duvall playing the iconic Dr. Watson. The plot centers around Holmes traveling to Vienna for help with an addiction, and while he’s in treatment, Watson helps solve a kidnapping. Duvall brings a unique and compelling energy to the role of Holmes’ steadfast companion.

‘THX 1138’ (1971)

Robert Duvall plays a man in a futuristic, emotionless world where physical touch is prohibited. He falls in love, a forbidden act, and stops taking the drugs the government uses to control people’s minds. This rebellion forces him to try and escape the watchful eyes of the robotic police. Duvall’s subtle acting beautifully shows a man rediscovering his feelings in a cold, controlled society.

‘Colors’ (1988)

Robert Duvall stars as a seasoned police officer teamed up with a hot-headed new partner as they patrol the dangerous gang areas of Los Angeles. They clash over how to deal with the city’s increasing violence and drug problems. Duvall’s character believes in building relationships and easing tensions, while his partner favors a more forceful approach. The film shows the everyday challenges and difficult choices faced by police officers working in high-crime areas.

‘Widows’ (2018)

Robert Duvall plays a strong, but dishonest, politician from a prominent Chicago family. The story shows his conflict with his son regarding their family’s power and how they run their campaigns. Alongside this, the film follows a group of women who try to pull off a robbery to cover debts left by their late husbands, who were criminals. Duvall powerfully portrays an old-fashioned politician who doesn’t like change.

‘We Own the Night’ (2007)

Robert Duvall stars as a high-ranking NYPD officer facing a difficult family situation. His two sons are complete opposites: one is a successful police officer, while the other runs a nightclub with ties to the Russian mob. When the mob targets the police department with increased violence, the family is thrown into crisis, and Duvall’s character must balance his loyalty to his sons with his duty to the law.

‘The Rain People’ (1969)

In this Francis Ford Coppola film, Robert Duvall portrays a motorcycle cop who encounters a woman on a cross-country trip, trying to leave a difficult marriage. He offers a fleeting connection and a glimpse of what her future could be as she embarks on a journey to find herself. Duvall’s subtle and insightful performance beautifully enhances the film’s emotional impact and focus on character development.

‘The Eagle Has Landed’ (1976)

I was completely captivated by Robert Duvall’s performance as a German intelligence officer tasked with an incredibly risky plan – kidnapping Winston Churchill! The movie really dives into how they meticulously planned this operation, involving paratroopers landing in a quiet English village during World War II. It wasn’t just about the plan itself, though; the story showed how things quickly went wrong and became much more complicated than anyone expected. Duvall really embodied the weight of responsibility and seriousness of being a military strategist, and it made the character feel so believable.

‘The Outfit’ (1973)

A seasoned criminal, fresh out of prison, embarks on a quest for revenge against the group responsible for his brother’s death. Robert Duvall portrays the relentless man who strategically targets the mob’s businesses to send a message. He teams up with an old friend as they venture into a treacherous underworld filled with skilled thieves and ruthless killers. Duvall’s powerful and reserved performance defines this iconic crime film from the 1970s.

‘Jack Reacher’ (2012)

Robert Duvall portrays a former Marine who runs a shooting range and teams up with an investigator trying to solve a mass shooting. Initially appearing random, the shooting turns out to be more complex, and Duvall’s character helps the investigator uncover the truth. He offers crucial tactical skills and support, especially during a dangerous showdown with hired mercenaries. Duvall delivers a believable and often humorous performance as a seasoned veteran who’s still skilled with firearms.

‘Get Low’ (2009)

Robert Duvall plays a reclusive man who decides to have a ‘living funeral,’ inviting his whole town to attend. He hires a funeral director to help plan the event, hoping to share the story behind his forty years of solitude. The film gradually reveals a heartbreaking event from his past that led him to withdraw from the world. Duvall gives a compelling performance, portraying both the quirky exterior and deep-seated pain of his character.

‘The Judge’ (2014)

Robert Duvall stars as a well-respected judge in a small town who is suddenly accused of a hit-and-run murder. His son, a successful lawyer from the city, comes home to defend him, and the case brings up painful memories and forces them to deal with their strained relationship. Duvall’s character is a strong-willed man grappling with both declining mental health and the damage to his good name.

‘True Grit’ (1969)

This classic western stars Robert Duvall as Ned Pepper, the leader of a dangerous gang pursued by a federal marshal. He’s a powerful villain who truly tests the skills and resolve of those trying to bring him to justice. The film centers on a young woman who enlists a hardened marshal to find the man responsible for her father’s death. Duvall delivers a compelling performance as a ruthless bandit who never gives up a fight.

‘The Great Santini’ (1979)

Robert Duvall plays a Marine pilot with a distinguished record who runs his family like a military operation. The film explores his difficulty adjusting from being a strong leader in combat to being a husband and father in peacetime. At its heart, the story is about the strained relationship between this father and his son, who is determined to live life on his own terms. Duvall gives a powerful performance, portraying a man whose identity is deeply tied to his career.

‘Open Range’ (2003)

Robert Duvall delivers a powerful performance as an experienced cattle driver leading his team across the American West. They clash with a ruthless landowner who opposes their free use of the grazing lands. Duvall’s character embodies strong ethics and the traditional values of the Old West. The film is known for its authentic gun battles and stunning depiction of the wild, yet perilous, western landscape.

‘The Road’ (2009)

The film depicts a post-apocalyptic landscape where Robert Duvall plays an aging man struggling to survive. He crosses paths with a father and son journeying to the coast, hoping to find a warmer, safer place. Their short time together highlights a shared connection and reminds them of everything lost in the disaster. Duvall’s character is a man who has seen the world end and has become emotionally distant as a result.

‘The Apostle’ (1997)

Robert Duvall wrote, directed, and stars in this movie as a captivating preacher who has to leave town after a fight. He moves to Louisiana, starts a new church using a different name, and hopes to find forgiveness. The film follows his efforts to build a community and make peace with his past. Duvall delivers a powerful and realistic portrayal of both strong religious belief and a flawed, complex character.

‘Tender Mercies’ (1983)

In this drama, Robert Duvall portrays a former country star trying to rebuild his life. He takes a job at a motel run by a young widow and gradually forms a bond with her and her son. The film centers on his personal battle with staying sober and his search for tranquility outside of the public eye. Duvall’s subtle and powerful performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

‘Tomorrow’ (1972)

Robert Duvall stars as a solitary maintenance worker at a secluded sawmill in the American South. He takes in a pregnant woman who’s been left on her own and develops a strong emotional connection with both her and her baby. The movie is a moving retelling of a story by William Faulkner, filmed in a striking black and white style. Duvall’s performance is particularly powerful and heartfelt, and many consider it to be among his best work.

‘Bullitt’ (1968)

In the film, Robert Duvall plays a taxi driver who gives a detective crucial clues during a dangerous investigation. He guides the detective through San Francisco while they pursue a team of assassins. The movie is well-known for its exciting car chases and stylish look. Duvall’s authentic performance as a supporting character enhances the film’s realistic feel as a crime thriller.

‘The Natural’ (1984)

Robert Duvall portrays a seasoned and somewhat jaded sports journalist tracking the career of an enigmatic older baseball player. His character is driven to discover the real story behind this athlete, who unexpectedly emerges and quickly becomes a phenomenal hitter. Duvall’s character embodies the critical media, observing the player’s successes and challenges. Duvall delivers a performance showcasing a smart man who prioritizes a compelling story over baseball legends.

‘Secondhand Lions’ (2003)

Robert Duvall plays a quirky, rich uncle who, along with another uncle, takes in his young nephew for the summer. His character has an interesting history, including time spent with the French Foreign Legion and traveling the Middle East. The film is a heartwarming and funny story about a boy discovering courage and the power of imagination. Duvall shares a fantastic on-screen connection with his co-star, portraying two older men determined to avoid a boring retirement.

‘Thank You for Smoking’ (2005)

Robert Duvall portrays the Captain, a strong and influential leader of a large tobacco company. He acts as a guide and employer to a skilled lobbyist tasked with protecting the cigarette industry’s image. The Captain embodies the traditional, unwavering approach to corporate power, showing no regret for prioritizing profits. Duvall’s performance is captivating, blending a commanding presence with southern charm.

‘Falling Down’ (1993)

Robert Duvall stars as a seasoned detective nearing retirement who spends his last day on the job pursuing a troubled man. This man has ditched his car and is now walking through Los Angeles, committing violent acts. While others see senseless chaos, the detective relies on his experience to understand the man’s motives and anticipate his next move. Duvall’s calm and collected performance provides a stark contrast to the unpredictable actions of the central character in this tense city thriller.

‘The Conversation’ (1974)

Robert Duvall makes a short but memorable appearance in this suspenseful thriller as the head of a major company. He’s the one who tasks a surveillance specialist with recording a conversation happening in a busy park. The story then centers on this specialist as he becomes increasingly consumed by the recording’s meaning and the possible risks to the people involved. Duvall reappears at the film’s peak, embodying the detached and ruthless side of corporate authority.

‘Sling Blade’ (1996)

Robert Duvall portrays a distant father confronting his son, who has recently left a psychiatric hospital. A short, strained meeting between them hints at a past filled with neglect and harsh treatment, explaining the son’s challenging life. Duvall’s powerful performance in just one scene is crucial to understanding the main character’s actions. The film then follows the man as he goes back to his hometown and unexpectedly becomes friends with a young boy.

‘Network’ (1976)

Robert Duvall portrays a heartless executive who will do anything to boost TV ratings. He’s one of the leaders who decide to profit from a news anchor’s public breakdown, embodying the media’s tendency to choose money over honest reporting. Duvall delivers a powerful and intense performance in the scenes where the network increasingly relies on shocking stories to attract viewers.

‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ (1962)

Robert Duvall first appeared on screen playing the enigmatic Arthur “Boo” Radley. Radley is a reclusive neighbor who becomes the subject of both curiosity and fear for a group of children in a quiet Southern town. He stays hidden throughout most of the story, but unexpectedly comes to the rescue when the children are threatened. Duvall gives a touching performance in this classic film, remarkably without uttering a single line of dialogue.

‘Apocalypse Now’ (1979)

Robert Duvall plays Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore, a military officer who loves to surf, during the Vietnam War. He commands a helicopter attack on a beach town, all so his troops can surf during a dangerous mission. Duvall delivers incredibly memorable lines with a captivating and unsettling energy. His performance perfectly shows the craziness and dreamlike quality of the war, as experienced by a long-serving soldier.

‘The Godfather Part II’ (1974)

Robert Duvall returns as Tom Hagen, the trusted lawyer and advisor to the Corleone family. He acts as a steady, rational influence as the new family leader tries to grow their criminal operations into Nevada. The film shifts between the son’s current challenges and flashbacks showing the father’s life in early 1900s New York. Duvall plays a character who deeply understands the legal and strategic thinking needed to stay powerful in a violent world.

‘The Godfather’ (1972)

Robert Duvall delivers a compelling performance as Tom Hagen, the adopted son and right-hand man to a powerful mafia boss. Hagen acts as the family’s main connection to the outside world, skillfully managing delicate talks with opposing groups. Duvall’s calm and restrained acting provides a contrast to the more volatile characters. The story centers on a son who unexpectedly becomes involved in the family’s criminal empire and the shift in leadership that follows.

2026-02-19 22:20