The Top 10 Lesser-Known Paul Dano Films, Ranked

Paul Dano, an actor known for his sensitivity and unpredictability, has consistently proven himself to be one of the best in the industry. It requires immense courage to stand toe-to-toe with Daniel Day-Lewis, yet Dano demonstrated in There Will Be Blood that he is capable of holding his own against one of the greatest actors of all time.

Dano's selection of roles has consistently defied expectations. One moment, he embraces the vulnerability of Brian Wilson in Love & Mercy, and the next he astounds audiences with his chilling portrayal of The Riddler in The Batman. Presented here is a ranking of the top ten most underrated Paul Dano movies.

10. 'Fast Food Nation' (2006)

Fox Searchlight

Dano's breakthrough came at the turn of the 21st century, starring in independent films like L.I.E. and The Emperor's Club. However, it was his collaboration with esteemed director Richard Linklater on the ensemble drama Fast Food Nation that provided him with his first opportunity to work with a renowned filmmaker. This film effectively portrays the complex web of corporate, political, and legal matters that surround America's restaurant and meatpacking industry.

Despite having a minor role, Dano impressively embodies the disheveled nonchalance of an underprivileged teenager compelled to serve unappetizing fast food to affluent patrons.

9. 'Taking Woodstock' (2009)

Universal Pictures

Dano had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed director Linklater early in his career. Additionally, he starred in Ang Lee’s unique historical dramedy, Taking Woodstock. The movie follows the captivating real-life account of Elliot Tiber, a young man who persuades his parents to host the groundbreaking Woodstock festival. In this film, Dano portrays a peculiar hippie who shares an LSD experience with Elliot amidst the festival, adding a comedic touch to an otherwise lackluster movie.

8. 'Knight and Day' (2010)

20th Century Studios

Knight and Day stands out among the films of Tom Cruise as one that failed to make a mark at the box office. This suggests that Cruise's dominance in the action genre is not universal. Cruise portrays the peculiar secret agent Roy Miller, who takes the renowned car designer June Havens (Cameron Diaz) hostage while evading the CIA.

In a peculiar casting choice, Dano assumes a character role. He appears as the idiosyncratic inventor Simon Peck, who is responsible for creating the coveted "Zephyr" device that Miller is pursuing. Dano excels in this unappreciated role, showcasing his commitment to delivering exceptional performances rather than relying on autopilot.

7. 'Cowboys & Aliens' (2011)

Universal Pictures

The infamous reputation of Cowboys & Aliens does not accurately reflect its actual quality. The film's premise is evident from its title, and director Jon Favreau wisely chooses not to treat the subject matter too seriously. While Harrison Ford has been criticized for lackluster performances in the past, he delivers a commendable portrayal of the elderly rancher Colonel Woodrow Dolarhyde.

Woodrow's son, Percy, portrayed by Dano, is swiftly imprisoned in the early stages of the movie due to his alcohol addiction. Surprisingly, the connection between Ford and Dano evokes a much deeper emotional impact than what one would expect from a film titled Cowboys & Aliens.

6. 'Being Flynn' (2012)

Focus Features

Dano had the opportunity to work with other legendary actors besides Day-Lewis. In the underrated 2012 dramedy Being Flynn, he acted opposite Robert De Niro. Dano played the role of Nick Flynn, a struggling writer whose life becomes chaotic when his absent and intoxicated father, Jonathan (De Niro), pays him a visit.

The relationship between the two characters is captivating. Jonathan claims to be a "master storyteller," but his true intention is merely to find any way to be a part of his son's life. Dano portrays Nick as sweet-natured, maintaining his optimism while also harboring fear of his father's presence.

5. 'Okja' (2017)

Image via Netflix

Parasite is not the only exceptional genre film by director Bong Joon-ho; his work on the 2017 Netflix movie Okja is equally remarkable. This sci-fi thriller revolves around Mija, a young Japanese girl, and her genetically superior super pig named "Okja." The film delves into an intense conflict between the profit-driven Mirando Corporation and the Animal Liberation Front. Through the character of Jay, portrayed by Dano, the film effectively articulates the significance of animal rights, displaying both precision and eloquence.

Given the film's thematic emphasis on animal protection, it was essential for an actor to authentically embody these sentiments.

4. 'Youth' (2015)

Studio Canal

Dano, known for his meticulous approach to acting, demonstrates a healthy level of self-awareness in his craft. This is apparent in the 2015 dramedy Youth, where he portrays the eccentric actor Jimmy Tree.

In a comedic scene, Tree shocks his old friend Fred Ballinger (played by Michael Caine) by fully committing to his role as Adolf Hitler, donning a Nazi uniform. It is a humorous moment in the film, highlighting Tree's overly intense method acting style as Ballinger realizes the extent to which he takes it.

3. 'For Ellen' (2012)

Memento Films

Dano's previous portrayals of likable, sensitive characters are dwarfed by his standout role in the 2012 drama For Ellen. In this film, he takes on the character of Joby, an irresponsible rock musician going through a divorce and fighting for custody of his young daughter Ellen against his wife, Claire (Margarita Levieva).

His performance is mature and subtle, evoking a profound sense of heartbreak. As Joby spends time with Ellen and attempts to connect with her, he comes to the realization that he is not yet ready to handle the duties and obligations of being a father.

2. 'Meek’s Cutoff' (2010)

Cinetic Media

Kelly Reichardt, one of the industry's most esteemed filmmakers, demonstrated through her feminist reinterpretation of the western genre that the narrative landscape of the Wild West was not exclusively dominated by white men. Dano's portrayal of Thomas Gately further strengthens this assertion as his character, like many others in the film, is depicted as a complete fool.

While it may be a role that lacks appreciation, Dano had the opportunity to play the role of Zoe Kazan's on-screen husband, who also happens to be his real-life partner. The authenticity with which the marital disputes between Thomas and Kazan's character Millie are depicted can easily be attributed to this connection.

1. 'Wildlife' (2018)

Dano’s skill in front of the camera is undeniable, but it is with his directorial debut, Wildlife, that he truly demonstrates his talent as a storyteller. This adaptation of Richard Ford’s novel explores the coming-of-age journey of Joe Birson, skillfully portrayed by Ed Oxenbould, as his parents, played by Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal, start to grow apart.

Given Dano’s natural intuition and discernment as an actor, it is no surprise that he brings out outstanding performances from his cast. Wildlife is hopefully just the beginning of his successful directorial career.