Back in Time Today
You might assume that a legendary actor’s favorite performance would be the blockbuster that made them a household name—or at least one that earned them an Oscar nod. But in these 12 cases, the roles that truly captured their hearts weren’t the obvious choices. From bizarre cameos to personal passion projects, these picks may just change how you see your favorite stars.
1. Daniel Radcliffe – “Swiss Army Man” (2016)
Not Harry Potter? Really? Instead of the boy wizard who launched him to global fame, Radcliffe’s favorite role is a flatulent corpse. In Swiss Army Man, he played a dead body with surprising depth. “It’s the most creatively satisfying thing I’ve ever done,” he said. Fans were baffled—but intrigued.
2. Charlize Theron – “Monster” (2003)
The transformation that defined her. Although she’s starred in numerous blockbusters, Theron has said Monster, in which she portrayed serial killer Aileen Wuornos, remains the most meaningful. “It changed everything for me,” she’s reflected—even though the role was gritty, raw, and deeply uncomfortable.
3. Robert Pattinson – “Good Time” (2017)
Goodbye, Edward Cullen. Forget Twilight—Pattinson is fiercely proud of his role as a desperate bank robber in this indie thriller. It was his way of breaking free from teen heartthrob status. He’s called it “the first time I felt like an actor.”
4. Jennifer Aniston – “The Good Girl” (2002)
Not Rachel from Friends. Aniston left comedy behind in this dark indie drama where she played a small-town woman trapped in a loveless marriage. She considers it her most emotionally demanding and rewarding role, despite its lack of mainstream buzz.
5. Nicolas Cage – “Pig” (2021)
Subdued and soulful? It’s Cage like never before. Known for his over-the-top performances, Cage’s quiet, grief-stricken truffle hunter in Pig became a personal favorite. “It might be my best work,” he said in interviews—shocking fans who expected something more chaotic.
6. Emma Watson – “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” (2012)
More than Hermione. Rather than one of the Harry Potter films, Watson has repeatedly praised her role as Sam in this coming-of-age drama. It gave her a chance to grow beyond Hogwarts and connect with a more intimate, emotionally rich character.
7. Bill Murray – “Lost in Translation” (2003)
A sad, quiet departure from his comic roots. Murray, known for his comedic chops, has called Lost in Translation a highlight of his career. The role showed his vulnerable side and helped audiences see him in a whole new light.
8. Kristen Stewart – “Spencer” (2021)
From vampire girlfriend to Princess Diana. Stewart stunned audiences—and herself—with her critically acclaimed portrayal of Princess Diana. She’s said the experience was “spiritually overwhelming” and unlike anything she’d done before.
9. Steve Carell – “Foxcatcher” (2014)
Not-so-funny man. Best known for comedy, Carell dove into dark territory as the eerie, obsessive John du Pont. “It terrified me, which is why I wanted to do it,” he said. He still cites it as one of his most challenging and satisfying roles.
10. Jennifer Lawrence – “Winter’s Bone” (2010)
Before Katniss, there was Ree. Even though The Hunger Games made her a superstar, Lawrence’s gritty debut in Winter’s Bone remains her favorite. The indie thriller earned her an Oscar nomination—and respect as a serious actress.
11. Heath Ledger – “Brokeback Mountain” (2005)
Not just The Joker. While his chilling turn in The Dark Knight is legendary, Ledger’s proudest role was Ennis Del Mar. His haunting performance in Brokeback Mountain was deeply personal and, in his own words, “the most pure thing I’ve done.”
12. Tom Hanks – “Cloud Atlas” (2012)
Not Forrest Gump?! Hanks has played dozens of iconic roles, but he has a soft spot for the sprawling, philosophical Cloud Atlas. “It was unlike anything I’ve ever attempted,” he said. The film confused many—but inspired him.