Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks is one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood. He is known for his warm and charming persona which has been compared to that of James Stewart. Hanks has played a variety of roles which have been both comedic and dramatic. He is currently one of the highest paid actors working in the film industry.

Saving Private Ryan

Hanks takes on the lead role as a captain during the Normandy invasions of World War Two. His team is forced to search France for a private and bring him back home safely. This is one of the greatest war films ever produced and it is also a highlight of Hanks’ career.

The Burbs

In this comedy, Hanks is a suburban everyman who suspects his neighbors might be murderers. He shares these suspicions with his friends and they decide to do some sleuthing. The ‘Burbs proved that Hanks was able to convey comic timing effectively.

Captain Phillips

This is the true story of a captain who was kidnapped by Somali pirates. Hanks gives a very emotional performance as Phillips. It is an intimate drama that uses close up shots and small spaces. This makes the sense of claustrophobia more effective and tense. The final scene of Phillips being cared for by medics was improvised and is the rawest of any Hanks film.

Catch Me If You Can

In another true story, Hanks plays an FBI agent who spends years trying to track down an experenced conman. Despite serving a supporting role, Hanks shines with the limited screen time that he is given. The scenes he shares with star Leonardo DiCaprio showcase his subtle skills in acting.

Toy Story

This is a popular animated Pixar film about toys that can come to life. Tom Hanks provides the voice of Woody the Cowboy. He is the favorite toy of a boy named Andy. However, when Andy is given a new action figure for his birthday, Woody feels left behind.

The Green Mile

Based on a Stephen King story, The Green Mile is about guards who work on death row. Hanks is an experienced staff member who believes a new inmate may have magical powers. This is one of the most heartbreaking films starring Tom Hanks.