Christopher Reeve has always been synonymous with the role of Superman, the iconic DC Comics hero who inspired generations of audiences. But Reeve’s cinematic legacy extends far beyond the cape. As an actor, he possesses a rare combination of leading-man charm and dramatic range, which has allowed him to effortlessly transition between genres and deliver memorable performances in a variety of movies.
From his breakout role in the 1978 Superman to his chilling turn in Rear Window, Reeve proved that both big-budget blockbusters and smaller productions can showcase his talents, versatility, and commitment to the craft. Even in the wake of his tragic horseback riding accident, Reeve continued to tirelessly work towards inspiring and uplifting others. Revisiting the actor’s remarkable career through his 11 best movies, each one a testament to his enduring legacy, is a good start to celebrate Christopher Reeve as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
11 ‘Village of the Damned’ (1995)
Set in the sleepy town of Midwich, Village of the Damned begins with a mysterious collective blackout rendering all the residents unconscious. They wake up and find out that ten women have unwittingly become pregnant, giving birth to ten identical-looking kids with platinum blonde hair and eerie intelligence. As the children grow at an alarming pace, their sinister behavior is apparent, which leaves the townspeople in a struggle to uncover the truth.
A Sci-Fi Thriller with Reeve at His Best
Directed by John Carpenter, this remake of the 1960 horror/sci-fi movie of the same name relies on mystery, intrigue, and the unsettling atmosphere created by the sheer strangeness of the phenomenon. In one of his final film roles before his tragic accident, Christopher Reeve delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Alan Chaffe, the town’s physician, who tries to understand and fight the malevolent forces threatening the peace and quiet in his town. The movie has its flaws, but Reeve’s presence makes it worth watching.
10 ‘Rear Window’ (1998)
Rear Window
- Release Date
- November 22, 1998
Rear Window is a chilling television remake of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic, and it sees Christopher Reeve at his best. He plays Jason Kep, a wheelchair-bound architect who is forced to stay in his apartment after an accident. With his view limited to the surrounding apartments, Jason becomes convinced that his neighbor has committed a heinous crime and is drawn into the web of suspicion and intrigue. But that lands him in danger.
A Suspenseful Remake Featuring Reeve
Directed by Jeff Bleckner, the movie marked a courageous return to form for Reeve because he had physical limitations and would only use his emotive face and voice to convey his growing sense of unease and moral dilemma. His amateur sleuthing blurs the lines between voyeurism and civic duty and the film reflects on the actor’s poignant and powerful real-life struggles as well. Rear Window, thus, received immense praise for Reeve’s performance.
9 ‘In the Gloaming’ (1997)
Rarely ever mentioned in his larger filmography is an HBO movie Christopher Reeve directed after his accident, from the confines of a room. A poignant and deeply moving drama, it tells the story of Danny, a young man diagnosed with AIDS, who returns to his home to spend some time with his family. From rekindling relationships to resolving conflicts with his mother, father, and sister, Danny grapples with both his illness and the anticipation of loss and grief.
Reeve’s Touching Directorial Triumph
Starring Robert Sean Leonard, Glenn Close, David Strathairn, Bridget Fonda and Whoopi Goldberg in the main roles, In the Gloaming highlights the complex dynamics within a family as well as the fragility of life in the face of terminal illness. Reeve’s direction is nuanced, understated, sensitive and intimate. He manages to elicit powerful performances from the cast and earns remarkable praise for his vision. Critics described the movie as “an enormously impressive directorial debut.”
Related
15 Actors Who Became Great Directors
It isn’t strange for actors to move behind the camera and direct their own films. In fact, some of the best directors were once actors.
8 ‘Street Smart’ (1987)
For Street Smart, Christopher Reeve stepped out of his Superman persona and inhibited the role of Jonathan Fisher, a struggling but unscrupulous journalist desperate for a groundbreaking story. He fashions up an article about a pimp, hoping it’s a story that could make his career. But when the story matches real-life events and a violent pimp named Fast Black threatens him, Jonathan is forced to face the consequences.
Gripping and Dramatic Tale of Ambition
Reeve’s performance as the morally conflicted Fisher who unwittingly gets entangled in a web of crime and corruption is a revelation of sorts. The actor skillfully navigates his character’s journey, the ethics of journalism, and showcases impressive range. What’s a standout, however, is Morgan Freeman’s portrayal of Fast Black, which was not only intense and dramatic enough to earn him an Academy Award nomination but also riveting enough to overshadow Reeve.
7 ‘The Remains of the Day’ (1993)
An adaptation of the Booker Prize–winning novel written by Kazuo Ishiguro, The Remains of the Day is set in post-World War II England. It follows Stevens, a dedicated butler who spent decades serving Lord Darlington with unwavering loyalty. Twenty years later, Stevens decides to visit Miss Kenton, the former housekeeper she shared a complex relationship with, and reflects on his years of service, his adherence to his duty, and the socio-political changes he helped overlook.
A Quiet and Dignified Supporting Role
The Remains of the Day is a poignant drama that offers a unique perspective on themes of sacrifice and duty, as well as the fleeting nature of happiness. Directed by James Ivory, the movie is driven by the unforgettable performances of Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson, with Reeve playing the role of Jack Lewis, a U.S. congressman who challenges Lord Darlington’s political alliances. He is vital to the narrative because he contributes to the overall richness of the movie.
6 ‘Above Suspicion’ (1995)
Directed by Steven Schachter for HBO, this crime thriller features Reeve as Dempsey Cain, a high-ranking police officer who becomes paralyzed after a tragic accident involving his brother, Nick. Medically retired from the force, Cain grapples with his new reality and is estranged from his wife, Gail, who happens to be having an affair with Nick. He concocts an elaborate plan to exact revenge from them while facing danger from a rival detective.
A Shocking Portrayal of Revenge
Above Suspicion premiered on HBO just six days before Reeve’s tragic horse-riding accident, which is an unfortunate coincidence. Still, the actor’s ability to deliver such an incredible and emotionally charged performance is the driving force behind this taut, suspenseful thriller. He is accompanied by Joe Mantegna and Kim Cattrall, who are just as dedicated to their intriguing roles.
5 ‘Deathtrap’ (1982)
A deliciously twisted thriller, Deathtrap centers around Sidney Bruhl, a once-successful playwright who finds himself in a well of despair after his recent play bombs on opening night. When one of his former students, Clifford Anderson, sends him a promising, potentially career-reviving script, Sidney devises a plan to murder him and claim the script as his own. But the obsession leads him down a dark path.
Wicked and Entertaining Cat-and-Mouse Game
Deathtrap, directed by Sidney Lumet, casts Reeve against type and the actor seems to be too aware of it because as the manipulative, morally ambiguous Bruhl, he’s a force to be reckoned with. He seamlessly slips into the deeply flawed and complex character and makes sure Lumet’s expert handling of the twists and turns, layers of betrayals and murders, does not go in the wrong direction. The movie is an overall, darkly comedic success.
4 ‘Noises Off’ (1992)
- Release Date
- March 20, 1992
- Cast
- Carol Burnett , Michael Caine , Denholm Elliott , Julie Hagerty , Marilu Henner , Mark Linn-Baker , Christopher Reeve , John Ritter , Nicollette Sheridan , Kate Rich , Zoe Cassavetes , Kim Sebastian , Louise Stratten , J. Christopher Sullivan , Kimberly Neville , Cleveland O’Neal III , Roger Michelson , Joe Hanna , Rosie De Sanctis , Jack McCall , Keith Crowningshield , Andrew Mapp , Diana Agostini , Bronson Dudley , Drummond Erskine , Roger Armstrong
- Runtime
- 101 Minutes
Adapting Michael Frayn’s beloved stage play for the big screen, Noises Off takes audiences behind the scenes of a chaotic theatrical production. It follows director Lloyd Fellowes, who is called in to give an American spin to a British play called “Nothing’s On,” and a troupe of quirky actors who fall into chaos as the opening night approaches. From personal issues to romantic mishaps, the rehearsals become a full-on disaster.
Reeve Showcases Slapstick Charm
Directed by Peter Bogdanovich, Noises Off is a funny, farcical, and frenetic comedy that captures the energy of live theater and backstage drama with impeccable timing and wit. Of course, helming the movie is Michael Caine, who is forced to deal with every little shenanigan that could potentially derail the entire production. Whereas Reeve is in top form as the lead actor whose personal insecurities are a direct reflection of the chaos of the production.
3 ‘Superman’ (1978)
- Release Date
- December 13, 1978
- Runtime
- 143
Superman is the role that cemented Christopher Reeve’s place in the industry as a cultural icon. He donned the famous blue tights and red cape for a movie that would chronicle the origins and adventures of Clark Kent, a mild-mannered reporter who transforms into the titular hero. He’s sent to Earth from Krypton before the latter planet’s downfall, and when he discovers his superhuman abilities, Superman moves to Metropolis and battles Lex Luthor.
An Enduring Classic in Cinematic History
Directed by Richard Donner, Superman was the most expensive movie made at the time. With its mind-blowing blend of action, romance, and heart, the movie set a new standard for superhero movies. Christopher Reeve’s dual portrayal of the bumbling Clark Kent and the heroic Superman earned universal acclaim because of the balance he struck between being vulnerable and indestructible. The film’s groundbreaking special effects, Gene Hackman’s villainous turn, and Reeve’s iconic role, became definitive of an era.
Related
Every Superman Movie, Ranked
Superman is one of the most beloved superheroes of all time. Here’s where each one of his movies ranks.
2 ‘Superman II’ (1980)
- Release Date
- December 4, 1980
- Runtime
- 127
Superman II continues the adventures of Clark Kent as he faces his greatest challenge yet: three criminals from his home planet of Krypton, General Zod, Ursa, and Non, have escaped the Phantom Zone and landed on Earth with the sole plan of dominating the human planet. Clark, on the other hand, is deeply in love with Lois Lane and has decided to renounce his powers to live as a human, which leaves him conflicted.
A Sequel That Surpasses the Original
When comparing the two, Superman II is clearly better because it elevates the stakes from its predecessor, raises emotional depth, and delivers more thrilling action. With the canvas of Reeve’s larger-than-life portrayal of Superman already laid out, the movie allows him to explore the character further by facing a large looming threat. With its strong narrative, dynamic ending, and heroism, it’s the foundation upon which Reeve’s popularity rests.
1 ‘Somewhere in Time’ (1980)
Somewhere in Time
- Release Date
- October 2, 1980
- Cast
- Christopher Reeve , Jane Seymour , Christopher Plummer , Teresa Wright , Bill Erwin , George Voskovec , Susan French , John Alvin , Eddra Gale , Audrey Bennett , William H. Macy , Laurence Coven , Susan Bugg
- Runtime
- 103 minutes
Written by Richard Matheson and directed by Jeannot Szwarc, Somewhere in Time is a romantic, time-traveling drama that centers around Richard Collier, a playwright who becomes obsessed with a photograph of a beautiful young woman from the past. Determined to meet her and uncover her identity, Richard uses self-hypnosis and travels back in time to 1912, where he meets and falls deeply in love with Elise.
A Sweeping, Emotional Love Story
Somewhere in Time is a dreamy and transformative movie that features Christopher Reeve as Richard. He is an earnest man with a growing sense of wonder, desperation, and an all-consuming passion for loving against all odds. His chemistry with Jane Seymour is palpable and vital to the star-crossed narrative. Visually stunning and emotionally resonant, the movie was initially met with mixed reviews, but it only grew in popularity with time.