Best Brian Cox Movies and TV Shows Ranked

As a renowned actor, Brian Cox has had a prolific career spanning several decades, with numerous film and television appearances under his belt. While he has appeared in a wide range of roles, his work in film has been particularly noteworthy. In this article, we’ll explore the best Brian Cox movies and TV shows, ranking them based on their critical acclaim, impact, and overall entertainment value.

10. X2 (2003)

In the superhero film X2: X-Men United, Brian Cox plays the role of William Stryker, the central villain who seeks to eradicate mutants worldwide. His performance adds depth to the film’s narrative, making it a more believable and engaging experience. The movie’s success can be attributed to its well-balanced storytelling, with Stryker’s character serving as a formidable opponent for the X-Men.

9. 25th Hour (2002)

In Spike Lee’s 25th Hour, Brian Cox plays the father of Monty (Edward Norton), a man struggling to come to terms with his impending prison sentence. Cox’s brief but impactful performance adds an emotional layer to the film’s exploration of relationships and mortality. The movie’s use of New York City as its backdrop is also noteworthy, capturing the city’s gritty reality in a way that few directors can match.

8. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

In this sci-fi reboot of the Planet of the Apes franchise, Brian Cox plays a primate shelter manager who takes in a young ape named Caesar. The film’s focus on character development and world-building sets it apart from other films in the franchise. Cox’s role is minor but significant, adding depth to the story and its themes.

7. Adaptation (2002)

In Charlie Kaufman’s meta-horror film Adaptation, Brian Cox plays Robert McKee, a famous author and screenwriting lecturer. The movie’s exploration of writer’s block and creative struggles is both hilarious and thought-provoking, with Cox’s performance adding an air of authority and credibility to the proceedings.

6. Rushmore (1998)

In Wes Anderson’s coming-of-age comedy-drama Rushmore, Brian Cox plays the headmaster of a prep school where Max (Jason Schwartzman) attends. The film’s quirky characters and Anderson’s distinct visual style make it a standout, with Cox’s performance adding an air of authority and tradition to the story.

5. Braveheart (1995)

In Mel Gibson’s epic historical drama Braveheart, Brian Cox plays Argyle Wallace, the uncle who raises young William Wallace. The film’s scale and grandeur are matched only by its emotional impact, with Cox’s performance adding depth to the story’s themes of loyalty and rebellion.

4. The Bourne Supremacy (2004)

In Paul Greengrass’s action-thriller The Bourne Supremacy, Brian Cox reprises his role as CIA Section Chief Ward Abbott from The Bourne Identity. His performance adds tension and authority to the film’s fast-paced action sequences and complex plot.

3. Zodiac (2007)

In David Fincher’s crime thriller Zodiac, Brian Cox plays Melvin Belli, a lawyer who interviews the Zodiac Killer on a morning talk show. The film’s suspenseful atmosphere and intricate plot make it a standout, with Cox’s performance adding an air of gravity and importance to the story.

2. Manhunter (1986)

In Michael Mann’s crime thriller Manhunter, Brian Cox played Dr. Hannibal Lecktor, a serial killer imprisoned for his crimes. His performance is both chilling and nuanced, making him a compelling addition to the film’s complex characters.

1. Succession (2018-2023)

In Jesse Armstrong’s HBO series Succession, Brian Cox stars as Logan Roy, a ruthless and cunning billionaire patriarch of a powerful media conglomerate. His performance is both terrifying and mesmerizing, making him a commanding presence on screen. The show’s exploration of power struggles and family dynamics is both timely and thought-provoking, with Cox at its center.

Overall, Brian Cox has had an impressive career spanning multiple genres and mediums. From his early work in theatre to his recent success on television with Succession, he has consistently demonstrated his versatility and range as an actor.