Nicolas Cage, an Oscar-winning actor, has experienced the full spectrum of public response—from praise to mockery. Yet, his dedication to his craft remains unwavering, as he pours his heart and soul into every role he undertakes. While some of his daring creative choices have propelled him into the realm of internet memes, there's no denying the explosive and vigorous talent that Cage brings to the screen.

Cage's filmography spans acclaimed romantic comedies, soul-crushing dramas, and some of the most iconic action blockbusters of the 1990s. His resume is so extensive that we've expanded our "Best Of" list to include 15 entries, rather than the standard top 10. Throughout his career, Cage has collaborated with powerhouse directors such as David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Michael Bay, Ridley Scott, and his own uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, delivering some of the most memorable performances in cinematic history. (For fans, don't miss the 40 best Nicolas Cage moments compiled by a dedicated Cage enthusiast who has seen every film he's starred in.)

Over four decades, Cage has explored every genre imaginable, from thwarting a chemical gas attack in San Francisco to embarking on a lethal bender in Las Vegas, even playing a meta-version of himself in an adventure reflecting on his own career. Here are our picks for Nicolas Cage's best movies ever, showcasing his unparalleled versatility and commitment to his art.