Action icon Bruce Willis has left his mark on Hollywood with his unrivalled charisma. His iconic role in Die Hard redefined the genre. His versatile talent extended to a wide range of films, including Pulp Fiction. His memorable performances reflect his enduring contribution to the film industry. So we celebrate Bruce Willis, who turns 69 in adversity, with a look back at 15 films and sagas starring him.
Die Hard
In 1988, Bruce Willis starred as John McClane, a New York cop who battles terrorists in a Los Angeles skyscraper in “Die Hard”. The film revolutionized the genre with its unique blend of action, suspense and humor. Its memorable lines and gripping scenes make it a cinematic classic, often considered the actor’s best film. The Die Hard saga also includes several sequels, including Die Hard 2 (1990), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), Live Free or Die Hard (2007), and A Good Day to Die Hard (2013).
Armageddon
Armageddon, released in 1998, stars Bruce Willis as Harry Stamper, a former oil driller who leads a team of astronauts to destroy an Earth-threatening asteroid. Rich in thrilling action and emotional depth, the film features a captivating performance by Bruce Willis, adding a special intensity to his heroic persona.
The Sixth Sense
The Sixth Sense, released in 1999, stars Bruce Willis as Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a child psychologist trying to help a young boy who claims to see ghosts. Willis delivers a nuanced performance, balancing empathy and vulnerability as his character grapples with his own demons while guiding the troubled child.
Unbreakable
The 2000 film Unbreakable stars Bruce Willis as David Dunn, a man who discovers he possesses superhuman abilities. His subtle and moving performance brings captivating depth to the character, while the film explores themes of destiny and power in an intriguing and immersive way.
The Fifth Element
The 1997 film The Fifth Element stars Bruce Willis as Korben Dallas, a cab driver who becomes involved in a mission to save the Earth. Willis’ performance is marked by his unique blend of charm, humor and bravery, adding depth to this sci-fi classic.
12 Monkeys
The 1995 film 12 Monkeys stars Bruce Willis as James Cole, a prisoner sent back in time to prevent a pandemic. His performance is marked by a captivating emotional intensity, navigating between madness and lucidity in this complex and thrilling thriller.
Death Becomes Her
The 1992 film Death Becomes Her stars Bruce Willis as plastic surgeon Ernest Menville, caught in a love triangle with two immortal women. His performance brings a touch of humor and charm to this dark comedy about vanity and immortality.
Sin City
The 2005 film Sin City stars Bruce Willis as Hartigan, an aging cop fighting corruption in a corrupt city. His performance is marked by raw intensity and indomitable determination, adding depth to this captivating, stylized noir drama.
Pulp Fiction
The 1994 film Pulp Fiction stars Bruce Willis as a boxer named Butch Coolidge, mired in a series of unlikely events. His performance is marked by a mixture of coolness and intensity, adding a fascinating dimension to this masterpiece of independent cinema.
Moonrise Kingdom
The 2012 film Moonrise Kingdom stars Bruce Willis as Captain Sharp, a local policeman, in this love story between two young teenagers on the run. His performance brings an emotional nuance to Wes Anderson’s charmingly eccentric, critically acclaimed tale.
Looper
The 2012 film Looper stars Bruce Willis as Joe, a hitman from the future who must confront his younger version to save his future. His performance is marked by intensity and charisma, helping to make this sci-fi thriller a success.
RED
The 2010 film RED stars Bruce Willis as Frank Moses, a former CIA agent forced back into service. His charismatic, action-packed performance adds undeniable energy to this entertaining spy movie, blending humor and adrenaline.
The Expendables
The Expendables films, released in 2010, 2012 and 2014, feature Bruce Willis as Church, a CIA agent. His performance alongside an all-star action cast brings a touch of authority and intensity to this explosive franchise, loved by action fans worldwide.
Motherless Brooklyn
The 2019 film Motherless Brooklyn stars Bruce Willis as Frank Minna, a private investigator. His captivating performance brings depth to this noir drama, exploring mystery and corruption in 1950s New York. Willis delivers a memorable performance in this critically acclaimed film.
Bandits
The 2001 film Bandits stars Bruce Willis as charismatic criminal Joe Blake. His charming, humorous performance adds a captivating dimension to this crime comedy. The film was praised for its original script and dazzling performances.