Unconventional Dramatic Performances by Action Stars

1. Dave Bautista in Dune (2021)

Dave Bautista, known for his role as Drax the Destroyer in Guardians of the Galaxy, surprised audiences with his powerful performance as Glossu Rabban in the epic sci-fi film Dune. In this nuanced portrayal, Bautista's character exudes intense anger and complexity, making him one of the standout characters in the movie.

Glossu Rabban looking down at something in Dune

2. Nicolas Cage in Leaving Las Vegas (1995)

Nicolas Cage, often recognized for his eccentric performances, showcased his dramatic prowess in the role of Ben Sanderson in Leaving Las Vegas. Portraying an alcoholic on a self-destructive path, Cage's vulnerability and depth in this role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, highlighting his versatility as a performer.

Ben (Nicolas Cage) looking serious in Leaving Las Vegas

3. Harrison Ford in Regarding Henry (1991)

Harrison Ford, known for iconic roles like Indiana Jones and Han Solo, displayed a different side in Regarding Henry as the character Henry Turner. Ford's committed performance in this emotional journey of recovery and family showcased his ability to excel in dramatic roles beyond the action-packed adventures he is famous for.

Henry Turner holding a beagle in Regarding Henry

4. Bruce Willis in The Sixth Sense

Bruce Willis stepped away from his action hero image to deliver a captivating performance as Malcolm Crowe in the psychological thriller The Sixth Sense. Portraying a child psychologist with a more vulnerable side, Willis showcased his dramatic range in this box office success, proving his talent extends beyond action-packed blockbusters.

Malcolm Crowe sitting behind a desk in The Sixth Sense

5. Clint Eastwood in The Bridges of Madison County (1995)

Clint Eastwood, known for his tough guy roles, surprised audiences with his role as Robert Kincaid in The Bridges of Madison County. In this romantic drama, Eastwood explored themes of loneliness and love with grace and sensitivity, showcasing a different side to his acting repertoire.

Clint Eastwood photgraphing Meryl Streep in The Bridges of Madison County

6. Arnold Schwarzenegger in Maggie (2015)

Arnold Schwarzenegger's performance in Maggie challenged the perception of the action star as he portrayed Wade Vogel, a father facing a heart-wrenching situation as his daughter undergoes a transformation into a zombie. Schwarzenegger's portrayal of vulnerability and love in this nuanced role demonstrated his ability to tackle complex and emotional characters.

Arnold Schwarzenegger hugging Abigail Breslin in a still from Maggie

7. Keanu Reeves in My Own Private Idaho (1991)

Before his action star status with The Matrix and John Wick, Keanu Reeves showcased his dramatic talents as Scott Favor in My Own Private Idaho. Reeves brought depth and emotion to the role, establishing himself as a serious actor capable of delivering compelling performances beyond the realm of action-packed blockbusters.

River Phoenix smoking a cigarette and Keanu Reeves in My Own Private Idaho

8. Jackie Chan in The Foreigner

Jackie Chan's role as Quan Ngoc Minh in The Foreigner challenged his reputation as a martial arts action star by requiring a more nuanced and dramatic performance. Starring opposite Pierce Brosnan, Chan portrayed a character with buried secrets and intense emotions, revealing a new facet of his acting abilities.

Jackie Chan in The Foreigner pic

9. Sylvester Stallone in Cop Land (1997)

Sylvester Stallone's portrayal of Sheriff Freddy Heflin in Cop Land showcased his dramatic depth beyond his action-packed roles in franchises like Rocky and Rambo. In this heartfelt performance, Stallone held his own against acting heavyweights, delivering a subtle and nuanced portrayal that resonated with audiences and critics alike.

Sylvester-Stallone-Copland