Actors with Surprisingly Better Movies than Their Highest-Grossing Hits

1. Chris Evans

While Avengers: Endgame soared to box office success, Chris Evans truly shines in emotionally charged performances like the gripping Snowpiercer, where he delves into societal issues with depth. In Knives Out, Evans captivates as a complex character, showcasing his versatility beyond the superhero realm.

Chris Evans holding an axe and looking angry in Snowpiercer.

Keywords: Snowpiercer, Knives Out, Chris Evans

Chris Evans as Ransom in Fall clothing in Knives Out

2. Ewan McGregor

Despite the commercial success of Beauty and the Beast, Ewan McGregor's standout role lies in Moulin Rouge!, where his portrayal of a romantic writer in the enchanting Parisian setting steals the show. McGregor's performance transcends the blockbuster realm, revealing his true acting prowess.

Christian and Satine singing together in Moulin Rouge

Keywords: Moulin Rouge!, Ewan McGregor

Jules (Samuel L Jackson) points a gun in Pulp Fiction

3. Jennifer Lawrence

While The Hunger Games series captivated audiences, Jennifer Lawrence's stellar acting shines brightest in Silver Linings Playbook, where she delivers a nuanced performance as a complex character. Lawrence's talent truly blossoms in this dramatic rom-com, earning her critical acclaim.

Jennifer Lawrence looking serious in Silver Linings Playbook

Keywords: Silver Linings Playbook, Jennifer Lawrence

4. Samuel L. Jackson

Despite his iconic presence in Avengers: Endgame, Samuel L. Jackson's mesmerizing performance in Pulp Fiction remains a cinematic masterpiece. Jackson's portrayal in classic movies like Pulp Fiction showcases his unparalleled talent and enduring impact in the film industry.

Samuel L Jackson talks to John Travolta in Pulp Fiction

Keywords: Pulp Fiction, Samuel L. Jackson

Nick Fury Grave in Captain America: The Winter Soldier

5. Shailene Woodley

Beyond The Fault in Our Stars, Shailene Woodley delivers a heart-wrenching performance in The Descendants, where she navigates complex family dynamics with raw emotion. Woodley's portrayal in The Descendants highlights her depth as an actress beyond the YA dystopia genre.

George Clooney and Shailene Woodley in The Descendants

Keywords: The Descendants, Shailene Woodley

6. Matthew McConaughey

While Interstellar dazzled audiences, Matthew McConaughey's compelling performance in Dallas Buyers Club earned him critical acclaim and an Oscar for Best Actor. McConaughey's transformative role in Dallas Buyers Club showcases his versatility and depth as an actor.

Matthew McConaughey wearing a hat and aviators looking sideways in Dallas Buyers Club

Keywords: Dallas Buyers Club, Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey standing with his arms open in Dallas Buyers Club

7. Gwyneth Paltrow

Despite her role in Avengers: Endgame, Gwyneth Paltrow's standout performance in Shakespeare in Love remains a testament to her acting prowess. Paltrow's portrayal in Shakespeare in Love earned her accolades and solidified her as a versatile and talented actress.

Viola de Lessepps at a party in Shakespeare in Love

Keywords: Shakespeare in Love, Gwyneth Paltrow

8. Ana de Armas

While No Time to Die showcased her talent, Ana de Armas truly shines in Knives Out, where her captivating performance adds depth to the modern whodunit genre. De Armas' role in Knives Out exemplifies her acting range and skill, setting her apart in the industry.

Ana de Armas in Knives Out

Keywords: Knives Out, Ana de Armas

9. Emma Stone

Before her Oscar success, Emma Stone's breakout role in Superbad paved the way for her versatile career. While The Amazing Spider-Man series garnered attention, Stone's performances in acclaimed films like The Favourite showcase her true acting prowess and depth.

Emma Stone as Bella Baxter looking up in Poor Things

Keywords: The Favourite, Emma Stone