David Bowie was one of the most iconic and influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his unique style and boundary-pushing music. But did you know he also had a successful acting career?
That’s right, Bowie appeared in a number of films throughout his life, often playing memorable and complex characters. let’s dive into the five of his best performances on the big screen, showcasing his range as an actor and his ability to captivate audiences both with his music and his acting talent.
The Prestige (2006)
In Christopher Nolan’s 2006 film ‘The Prestige,’ Bowie played the legendary scientist Nikola Tesla. Bowie’s performance was remarkable, as he captured the essence of the brilliant inventor who was far ahead of his time. He brought a sense of mystery and intrigue to the character, which made him one of the standout performances in the movie.
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me (1992)
David Lynch’s cult classic TV show ‘Twin Peaks’ didn’t feature Bowie in its original run. However, he was part of the prequel movie, ‘Fire Walk With Me,’ playing the ‘long lost’ Phillip Jeffries. Bowie’s portrayal of the character was enigmatic and haunting, which made him stand out even in a movie full of eccentric characters.
The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
In Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Last Temptation of Christ,’ Bowie played Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect who sentenced Jesus to crucifixion. Bowie’s performance was powerful, as he brought depth to the character of Pilate, who was often portrayed as a one-dimensional villain in previous adaptations.
Basquiat (1996)
In Julian Schnabel’s 1996 film ‘Basquiat,’ Bowie played another 20th-century icon: Andy Warhol. Bowie’s performance was spot-on, as he captured Warhol’s eccentricities and mannerisms with ease. He brought a sense of humor to the character that made him a joy to watch on screen.
Labyrinth (1986)
David Bowie not only appeared in but also composed the music for the 1986 movie ‘Labyrinth.’ He played the Goblin King Jareth, who kidnaps a young girl’s baby brother. Bowie’s performance was both charming and sinister, as he brought a unique sense of style to the character. The music in the movie was also one of its highlights, as Bowie’s compositions perfectly captured the film’s whimsical and magical tone.
David Bowie was not only an iconic musician but also a talented actor. His performances in these five movies show his range and versatility as an actor, as he was able to inhabit a variety of characters with ease. If you’re a fan of Bowie’s music and haven’t seen his movies, be sure to check out these five films to see his incredible acting skills in action.
