You are probably familiar with Tom Hanks‘ well-known movies, such as Forrest Gump, Toy Story, and Castaway. Hanks has had a storied career doing nearly as many movies as Sir Michael Caine. While Hanks movies aren’t always action vehicles like Schwarzenegger or Harrison Ford films, his career boasts plenty of movies ranging from the light-hearted to the serious. Let’s look at a few Tom Hanks movies you may have forgotten.
Joe Vs. The Volcano (1990)
Before Tom Hanks won Oscars for best actor, he took on quirky roles in offbeat comedies like “Joe Vs. The Volcano.” This film is a whimsical, surreal adventure that pairs Hanks with Meg Ryan (in three different roles!). The story follows Joe, a hypochondriac who learns he has a terminal illness and agrees to sacrifice himself by jumping into a volcano to appease a native tribe. With its blend of humor, romance, and fantasy, the film is a cult favorite and offers a unique glimpse into Hanks’ early career before he became a megastar.
Bachelor Party (1984)
Long before he was known for more serious roles, Tom Hanks was the king of comedy. “Bachelor Party” is a prime example of this era. This 1984 film is a raucous comedy about a man on the verge of marriage to his fiancée (played by Tawny Kitaen of Whitesnake fame) who, along with his friends, throws the wildest bachelor party imaginable. It’s full of 80s nostalgia, outrageous humor, and a young Hanks showcasing his comedic timing and charm. Undoubtedly, this film would not have worked if Hanks had not been the star. It would have been an overbearing sophomoric comedy without Hanks’s deft touch. Fortunately for us, Hanks’ performance holds up, even in the twenty-first century.
Road to Perdition (2002)
“Road to Perdition” might not be as obscure as some other films on this list, but it’s one that deserves more attention. In this dark, atmospheric crime drama, Hanks plays Michael Sullivan, a mob enforcer on the run with his son after a betrayal within the mob family he works for. The film, directed by Sam Mendes, is a beautifully crafted piece of cinema, with Hanks delivering a powerful performance that contrasts sharply with his more wholesome roles. “Road to Perdition” is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates Hanks’ ability to dive into complex and morally ambiguous characters.
Dragnet (1987)
Anyone who has seen “Dragnet” will laugh at the mention of “goat leggings.” Hanks teamed up with Dan Aykroyd in the film for a comedic take on the classic TV show. Playing the role of Detective Pep Streebek, Hanks brought his trademark humor to this buddy cop film, which parodies the straight-laced style of the original series. The movie blends action, comedy, and a touch of mystery, making it an enjoyable ride. Though it may not be as well-known as other cop comedies from the 1980s, “Dragnet” is a great reminder of Hanks’ comedic roots.
The Terminal (2004)
Directed by Steven Spielberg, “The Terminal” is a film that compellingly showcases Hanks’ ability to portray endearing and resilient characters. The movie tells the story of Viktor Navorski, a man from a fictional Eastern European country who becomes stranded at New York’s JFK Airport when his homeland undergoes a political upheaval, rendering his passport invalid. As Viktor makes the airport his temporary home, he makes friends and allies along the way. In this touching performance, Hanks delivers a balance of humor and poignancy. Despite the film’s unique premise and Hanks’ excellent portrayal, “The Terminal” often flies under the radar when discussing his filmography.
Catch Me If You Can (2002)
In “Catch Me If You Can,” Hanks plays Carl Hanratty, an FBI agent relentlessly pursuing a young con artist played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Also directed by Steven Spielberg, this film is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr., who successfully conned millions of dollars by posing as a Pan Am pilot, doctor, and legal prosecutor before his 19th birthday. Hanks’ performance as the dogged agent adds relatability to the cat-and-mouse chase, making this film both thrilling and engaging. While it was a box office success, it’s a film that sometimes gets overshadowed by other big hits from Hanks’ career.
To Sum Up
Tom Hanks has been part of so many memorable films that it’s easy to forget some of the gems in his extensive career. “Joe Vs. The Volcano,” “Bachelor Party,” “Road to Perdition,” “Dragnet,” “The Terminal,” and “Catch Me If You Can” each offer a unique perspective on his talent and range as an actor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, these films are worth revisiting or discovering for the first time. They remind us that Tom Hanks is not just a beloved star but an actor who continues improving his craft with every role he takes.
