Praised by critics, beloved by fans, and occasionally roasted by internet culture – Nicolas Cage has poured his signature intensity into every role across his legendary career. Whether delivering Oscar-worthy performances or becoming accidental meme royalty, Cage approaches each project with unbridled passion.
The Academy Award winner boasts an impossibly diverse filmography spanning tender rom-coms, devastating character studies, and blockbuster action spectacles that defined 90s cinema. His collaborations range from visionary auteurs like Scorsese and Lynch to popcorn auteurs like Michael Bay – often stealing scenes from under his own uncle Francis Ford Coppola.
We've expanded our usual "Top 10" format to accommodate Cage's staggering body of work – because how do you possibly narrow down performances this iconic? From thwarting terrorist attacks in San Francisco to drunkenly confronting his own celebrity persona in surreal meta-comedies, Cage's fearless choices have cemented his legend.
(Pro tip: For maximum Cage immersion, pair this list with *40 Unforgettable Nicolas Cage Moments* – lovingly chronicled by a superfan who's seen his entire filmography.) Here are our picks for Cage's greatest cinematic achievements across four decades of unmatched screen presence.