Sam Worthington's Top 9 Film Performances: From Crocodile Prey to Sci-Fi Icon

9. Rogue (2007)

Kicking off our list at number nine, Sam Worthington faced off against nature's terror in the Australian thriller 'Rogue'. Playing a tour guide in the crocodile-infested waters, Worthington delivered a performance that, while not groundbreaking, showcased his ability to engage with the primal themes of man versus beast. Despite being critiqued as a 'Jaws' clone, 'Rogue' allowed Worthington to tap into the rugged survivalist archetype, which perhaps foreshadowed his later roles in more demanding survival narratives.

People and crocodile in Rogue

8. Last Night (2010)

At number eight, we delve into the romantic drama 'Last Night'. Worthington displayed his versatility by portraying a man entangled in the complexities of marital fidelity. Starring opposite Kiera Knightley, the film's exploration of temptation and loyalty allowed Worthington to shed his action-hero skin and exhibit a more vulnerable, emotionally nuanced character. The film may have flown under the radar, but it stands as a testament to Worthington's capacity for handling delicate human dramas.

Sam Worthington and Kiera Knightley in Last Night 2010

7. Man On A Ledge (2012)

Seventh place is snatched by 'Man On A Ledge', where Worthington found himself in a precarious situation both literally and figuratively. As a disgraced ex-cop threatening to jump from a high-rise, the actor had to maintain high tension throughout the film. Despite the movie's mixed reviews, Worthington's portrayal of a man on the edge – balancing a heist narrative with personal desperation – gave audiences a glimpse of his potential in suspense-filled roles.

Jamie Bell in Man on a Ledge (photo: Summit Entertainment)

6. The Debt (2010)

Coming in at number six, 'The Debt' featured Worthington in a gripping espionage thriller that spanned different eras. His portrayal of a young Mossad agent on a mission to capture a notorious war criminal proved his ability to carry a historical narrative with gravitas. Worthington held his own in a complex role that required a blend of raw intensity and emotional depth, sharing the screen with the likes of Helen Mirren.

The Debt 2010

5. Somersault (2004)

At the halfway mark, we revisit Worthington's early work in 'Somersault', a film that put him on the map. His role as a struggling motelier who becomes involved with a troubled young woman showcased a raw and tender side of Worthington's acting range. Set in his native Australia, 'Somersault' provided a platform for Worthington to demonstrate his dramatic capabilities, earning him critical acclaim and setting the stage for his future success.

Sam Worthington and Abbie Cornish in Somersault

4. Everest (2015)

Scaling to number four, Worthington's role in 'Everest' was a testament to his ability to contribute to an ensemble cast in a harrowing true story of survival. As Guy Cotter, he delivered a performance that, while not the central focus, added to the film's emotional weight and the overwhelming sense of peril faced by mountaineers. 'Everest' was a visually stunning film that benefited from Worthington's steady, supportive presence.

Men trekking through snowstorm

3. Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

Bronze goes to the war epic 'Hacksaw Ridge', where Worthington played the stern but fair Captain Glover. In a film lauded for its intense battle sequences and moral fortitude, Worthington's portrayal of a military leader grappling with the pacifist convictions of his medic, played by Andrew Garfield, was both authoritative and humanizing. 'Hacksaw Ridge' marked a significant milestone in Worthington's career, showcasing his ability to stand out even among an acclaimed ensemble.

Andrew Garfield as Private Desmond Doss saluting in the movie Hacksaw Ridge.

2. Terminator: Salvation (2009)

Taking the runner-up spot is Worthington's role in 'Terminator: Salvation' as the conflicted Marcus Wright. Amidst a franchise struggling to recapture its former glory, Worthington's portrayal of a half-human, half-machine character added a unique dimension to the series. His internal struggle between machine programming and human emotion provided depth to the post-apocalyptic narrative, making 'Terminator: Salvation' one of the more memorable chapters in the franchise for his performance.

Christian Bale and Sam Worthington in Terminator Salvation

1. Avatar (2009) & Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

Claiming the top spot, Worthington's portrayal of Jake Sully in 'Avatar' and its sequel 'Avatar: The Way of Water' is undeniably the most impactful role of his career. As a paraplegic marine who finds new life among the Na'vi of Pandora, Worthington brought emotional resonance to a visually groundbreaking film. The long-awaited sequel saw him return to the role with a renewed sense of urgency as a father and protector, cementing the character's legacy. While the films' narratives may not be revolutionary, Worthington's Jake Sully has become an iconic figure in the realm of science fiction.

Sam Worthington as Corporal Jake Sully in his human form at the base on Pandora in Avatar