Christian Slater burst onto the scene in the late 80s and early 90s, embodying a rebellious, edgy energy that resonated with a generation. With a string of iconic roles, he cemented his status as a Hollywood heartthrob and a versatile actor. While he’s continued to work steadily, his early work remains a fascinating snapshot of a unique talent.
Let’s take a look back at some of his most memorable films:
Teen Angst and Beyond
The Legend of Billie Jean (1985) Slater’s first leading role, he starred alongside Helen Slater, Keith Gordon, Dean Stockwell and Peter Coyote in this film developed a cult following over time. Featured the hit song Invincible by Pat Benatar.
Heathers (1988) A dark comedy that became a cult classic featuring Slater starring with Winona Ryder. Kim Walker, Lisanne Falk and Shannon Doherty played the Heathers, the most popular girls in school.
Young Guns II (1990) Slater joined the ensemble cast with Emilio Estevez, Kiefer Sutherland, Lou Diamond Phillips, Alan Ruck, James Coburn and William Peterson in this sequel to the 1988 hit Young Guns.
Pump Up the Volume (1990) Slater plays an introverted teenager at a suburban high school who is an anonymous host of a popular pirate radio show that rants against things going on in the school ad the area. Samantha Mathis co-stars.
From Outlaw to Hero (and Back Again)
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) Slater had a supporting role in the blockbuster hit starring Kevin Costner, Mary Elizabeth Mastriantonio, Alan Rickman (Die Hard), Morgan Freeman, and Michael Wincott.
Mobsters (1991) Slater played Lucky Luciano in an ensemble cast that included Patrick Dempsey, Richard Grieco, Anthony Quinn (Revenge), F. Murray Abraham, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Chris Penn.
True Romance (1993) Slater is comic-book nerd and Elvis fanatic Clarence Worley in this Tony Scott film that was written by Quentin Tarantino. The all-star cast includes Val Kilmer, Brad Pitt, Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Gary Oldman, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Rapaport (Higher Learning), and James Gandolfini.
Interview with the Vampire (1994) Slater played journalist Daniel Molloy in this adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel. Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Antonio Banderas starred.
Broken Arrow (1996) Slater stars with John Travolta in this action blockbuster directed by John Woo. Samantha Mathis reunites with Slater from their cult classic Pump Up the Volume. Delroy Lindo (Ransom), Frank Whaley, Bob Gunton and Howie Long also starred.
John Travolta and Christian Slater in Broken Arrow (Photo/FOX)
Bobby (2006) Slater was part of the ensemble cast that includes Emilio Estevez, Anthony Hopkins, Sharon Stone, Shia LaBeouf, Martin Sheen, Laurence Fishburne, Lindsay Lohan, Helen Hunt, Heather Graham and Demi Moore in this film about the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles.
Bullet to the Head (2012) Sylvester Stallone stars as a veteran hitman in this film by Walter Hill. Slater plays Marcus Baptiste. Sarah Shahi and Jason Momoa co-starred.
Lasting Legacy for Christian Slater
Christian Slater’s career has been marked by a mix of iconic roles, critical successes, and commercial hits. From his early portrayals of rebellious youth to his later work in more mature roles, he has proven himself to be a versatile and talented actor. While he may not always be the biggest name on the marquee, his presence on screen is always captivating. His contributions to cinema, particularly in the realm of 90s independent film, have solidified his place in Hollywood history.
