Bruce Willis is a movie star’s movie star; he reached that point through a number of classic films that will be seen for generations to come, and some that aren’t as well known but showed his acting range. Let’s dig further into Willis’s most acclaimed roles.
Die Hard (1988)
We have to start with the breakout hit of Willis’s career, the film that changed action movies, Die Hard. Willis plays John McClane, an NYPD detective in Los Angeles thrown in the wrong place at the wrong time when the high rise he is in, Nakatomi Plaza, is taken over by a group of would-be robbers masquerading as terrorists. Die Hard is often considered one of the greatest action movies of all time, and much of its success is owed to Willis’s portrayal of the quick-thinking, reluctant hero. Willis portrayed the character with a combination of humor and vulnerability that made the character relatable to audiences. Die Hard is now considered one of the greatest Christmas Movies of all time and spawned several sequels.
In Country (1989)
While not as well known, this film caught the attention of critics and movie producers alike, showing Willis was more than a quick-witted action star. He would not have gotten roles like The Sixth Sense or Pulp Fiction without In Country. The movie centers around Emmett Smith (this was made before the running back was a household name), a Vietnam War veteran struggling with long-term PTSD who helps his niece find out about her father, who died in Vietnam shortly before she was born. Based on the novel of the same name by Bobbie Ann Mason, the film explores the toll war takes on veterans and their families. Willis’s portrayal of Smith, who is trying to reconcile his experiences with his post-war life, was praised for its depth and sensitivity. The role allowed Willis to display his dramatic range early in his career, proving he could excel outside of action-packed roles. His understated performance gave weight to the film’s theme of trauma and healing.
Pulp Fiction (1994)
As the movie was being made, Willis expressed his opinion that Pulp Fiction would be an instant classic. It was due to his work with the excellent ensemble cast. In Tarantino’s masterpiece Willis play’s Butch Coolidge, a down-and-out boxer who decides to double-cross a dangerous crime boss, Marsellus Wallace, played by Ving Rhames and in his story arc, which boasts some of the film’s most memorable (or notorious) moments, revealed Willis’s ability to play characters with darker, more complex motivations. In a movie filled with unforgettable performances, Willis’s portrayal of Butch made a permanent impression, elevating Pulp Fiction to a cultural phenomenon that is cemented in film history.
Hear T.J. and Jay talk about “Pulp Fiction” and the other great movies of 1994 on this edition of the “We’ve Seen That! Podccast” by clicking play below,
The Fifth Element (1997)
In The Fifth Element, Willis portrays Korben Dallas, a flying taxi driver caught up in an intergalactic battle to save Earth from certain destruction. The film is known for its vibrant visuals, quirky characters, and unique storyline (plus an underrated role by the great Gary Oldman). Willis’s charismatic and witty performance anchored the film’s more eccentric elements. Korben Dallas became another iconic character for Willis, highlighting his ability to make the character’s heroism relatable.
The Sixth Sense (1999)
In M. Night Shyamalan’s psychological thriller, The Sixth Sense, Willis portrayed a more subdued and emotionally complex character as Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a child psychologist trying to help a young boy who claims he can see dead people. The film’s haunting atmospherics and famous twist ending left audiences speechless, and Willis’ understated performance was a critical factor in the film’s success. His portrayal of a man grappling with professional failure and personal strife added depth to a story that captivated audiences across the globe. This role showed a more nuanced side of Willis’ talent, earning him critical praise.
A Lasting Legacy
Bruce Willis’s ability to be comic and dramatic showcases are hallmarks of his talent and is why his work will be lauded for generations
