From comedy to drama, Sam Rockwell’s filmography is filled with various intriguing characters and stories. Here are eight underrated movies featuring Rockwell that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
8. The Way, Way Back
In this heartfelt coming-of-age film, Rockwell plays Owen, a water park owner whose free-spirited nature helps a young boy, Duncan, come out of his shell. Set against the backdrop of a summer vacation, Rockwell’s performance brings a sense of joy and growth to ‘The Way, Way Back.‘
7. Lawn Dogs
‘Lawn Dogs‘ explores themes of classism and social isolation. Rockwell stars as a landscaper in a gated community who forms an unlikely friendship with a neglected young girl. The film focuses on their relationship, set against societal prejudices.
6. The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford
In this historical drama, Rockwell takes on the role of Charley Ford, part of the infamous Jesse James’ gang. ‘The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford‘ explores the dynamics within the gang and concludes with the historical event suggested by the title.
5. Richard Jewell
Based on true events, ‘Richard Jewell‘ features Rockwell as the attorney of the security guard who discovered a bomb during the 1996 Summer Olympics. His character portrays the intensity of the legal battle that ensued when Jewell became a suspect.
4. Frost/Nixon
This film revisits the interviews between David Frost and Richard Nixon. In ‘Frost/Nixon,‘ Rockwell plays an investigator working with Frost, who contributes to the unraveling of one of the most significant political scandals in American history.
3. Moon
In ‘Moon,‘ Rockwell stars as the sole operator of a lunar mining base, struggling with identity and reality when he encounters a clone of himself. This sci-fi drama offers a thought-provoking narrative about human existence and corporate ethics.
2. Jojo Rabbit
Set in WWII Germany, ‘Jojo Rabbit‘ features Rockwell as Captain K, a German soldier tasked with training young recruits. His character highlights the conflict between duty and personal disillusionment in this satirical take on war.
1. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
In this critically acclaimed film, Rockwell stars as a volatile deputy in a small town. The narrative of ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri‘ revolves around a mother’s quest for justice, with Rockwell’s performance earning him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
