Tom Hanks is one of the most beloved actors of all time. The man has produced almost 60 movies and has almost 100 acting credits. His own trademark is to play an ordinary character in an extraordinary situation. This makes him relatable, down-to-earth, and wholesome. Three things that this world needs.
While all eyes are on his newest upcoming movie Mister Rogers, I think it’s time to take a look at all of his greatest hits! Let’s give a shout out to Tom Hanks’ top ten movies!
Cast Away (2000)
Back when Fed Ex was “the” delivery method to have, a movie about a FedEx executive was released. A man so loyal to his job that when stranded on a deserted island, he didn’t even open the packages that washed up on shore. I mean, it is against the law. Cast Away received such amazing feedback that it is often considered Tom Hanks very best work.
Captain Phillips (2013)
Entering the 2010s, you can’t forget about Tom Hanks’ most intense tale: Captain Phillips. The true story about an American ship attacked by Somali pirates gives us much more than we bargained for, in a good way. Captain Phillips is a man of integrity, respect, and love. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of him is exquisite.
Toy Story (1995)
All semantics aside, Toy Story is Tom Hanks’ most popular movie. In the Toy Story franchise, he plays Woody. The cowboy has stolen more than a few hearts, and continues to do so well into 2019, when his newest Toy Story installment was released.
Forrest Gump (1994)
The only Tom Hanks movie that comes close to Toy Story’s popularity is Forrest Gump. When you think about the actor, this quotable movie will probably come to mind. Looking back at the movie, you’ll see it was ahead of its time. If you’ll remember, Forrest not only had a physical disability as a child, but also grew up with what was seen as a “low mental capacity” at the time. But looking back from 2019, it’s very likely this prodigy had Asperger’s syndrome.
Saving Mr. Banks (2013)
While Saving Mr. Banks isn’t considered Tom Hanks’ “best movie,” it is the one to watch if you want a peek at Mister Rogers. His portrayal of Walt Disney is likely very similar to what we’ll see when he takes on the childhood role model, Mister Rogers. The two share many similarities, and Tom Hanks did an amazing job with Walt. We hope we can say the same for Mister Rogers.
A League of Their Own (1992)
This star-studded movie was everything in 1992, but today…it’s even more. It’s during World War II and eligible athletes are being sent off to war. So, what do they do? Use the women! Though the story itself is fictional, the characters are loosely based on real-life athletes.
The Green Mile (1999)
If this movie doesn’t send you on an emotional roller coaster, you may be a sociopath. The Stephen King story is as intense as Tom Hanks movies get. What happens when someone with a child-like demeanor is convicted of a horrible crime? This tale of love, healing, and prisons during the Great Depression is a bucket list move that everyone should see.
Splash (1984)
What’s so special about Splash? Not much, expect it was Tom Hanks first big break! Just 28-years-old at the time, Tom Hanks put on a good film debut. The movie was revolutionary at the time. Movies of mermaids and mad scientists were few and far between, and Splash is likely the most providential of them all.
Saving Private Ryan (1988)
With hundreds of great war movies out there, it is quite a feat to take the top spot. However, Saving Private Ryan sails right on through. Anyone who wants to take a peek into the harshest, yet sweetest pieces of war needs to watch this movie.
Big (1988)
While browsing through Tom Hanks movies, you may notice that Big is mentioned as a favorite more than any other. What initially seems like a cult classic, holds a place in the heart of everyone born before the turn of the century. Kids live their lives wishing they were older, but what happens if they get that wish? Big is a masterpiece that will keep the entire family entertained.