Most Rewatchable Tom Hanks Films Ranked By MarkMeets Readers

Tom Hanks is an icon of an American actor, director, writer and producer, double oscar winner, who has a net worth of $400 million having starred in over 60 movies.

Tom Hanks is an actor beloved by audiences worldwide. With a career spanning nearly five decades, beginning in 1977, Hanks has proven his versatility by excelling in nearly every genre. From romance and mystery to drama, war, comedy, and animation, he has done it all, solidifying his status as one of the greatest A-List actors of all time.

His ability to heal hearts, warm them, or utterly break them showcases his impressive range. With almost ninety film credits to his name, including roles as an actor or producer, Hanks has contributed to some of the best movies ever made. Over the years, he has worked on some of the most notable features, with 90s classics like “Saving Private Ryan” and “Forrest Gump” being two of his most memorable. It’s easy to pop on a Tom Hanks movie for the umpteenth time, and while dozens of his films could be considered rewatchable, these ten are arguably the easiest to return to again and again.

10. ‘Turner & Hooch’ (1989)

Directed by Roger Spottiswoode

Whenever a dog plays a significant role in a movie, it can either be hilariously entertaining or deeply emotional. The 1989 buddy cop adventure “Turner & Hooch” managed to achieve both. Without giving away the ending, this film is an engaging depiction of what happens when a detective (Hanks) pairs up with his fallen friend’s dog, a massive Dogue de Bordeaux named Hooch.

Initially, things don’t start well between Turner and Hooch, but the film evolves into a funny, heartwarming, and touching story about the bond between a man and his dog. While it may not be the most critically acclaimed of Tom Hanks movies, “Turner & Hooch” remains a financially successful buddy cop story that’s perfect for repeat viewing.

Release Date: July 28, 1989
Runtime: 97 minutes

9. ‘Cast Away’ (2000)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

The now iconic “Cast Away” premiered in December 2000, closing out the year as one of the most financially successful movies, ranking third at the worldwide box office.

The film follows FedEx worker Charles “Chuck” Nolan (Hanks) who becomes stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. Alone and with nothing but his thoughts, he must find a way to survive. “Cast Away” introduced one of the most universally recognized co-stars in Hanks’ filmography: Wilson the volleyball. Despite Wilson stealing the show, “Cast Away” remains one of the most well-known survival films of all time. Its gripping plot, combined with Hanks’ Golden Globe-winning performance, makes this film an easy choice for another watch of one of his most notable early roles.

Release Date: December 22, 2000
Runtime: 143 minutes

8. ‘Forrest Gump’ (1994)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

According to IMDb, the universally acclaimed “Forrest Gump” from 1994 is one of the best movies ever made. This multi-genre masterpiece, blending drama, comedy, and war, is one of the most iconic films of the 20th century. It is arguably one of Tom Hanks’ best movies ever, though its power to shatter hearts makes it slightly less rewatchable for some.

“Forrest Gump” tells the story of a young Alabama boy as he grows up, experiencing life events while being bullied for his lack of intellect. Despite his challenges, Forrest radiates compassion and love for everyone. The film brilliantly shows how a little kindness can make a big impact. Winning twenty-nine awards, “Forrest Gump” deserves every single accolade.

Release Date: July 6, 1994
Runtime: 142 minutes

7. ‘Catch Me If You Can’ (2002)

Directed by Steven Spielberg

The 2002 film “Catch Me If You Can” combines the intrigue of a crime drama with the fun of a cat-and-mouse comedy. This multi-genre movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio alongside Hanks, marking the second film in Hanks’ 21st-century filmography.

DiCaprio portrays Frank Abagnale Jr., a security consultant for the FBI who was one of the most notorious con artists of the 1970s. Hanks plays Carl Hanratty, a fictionalized depiction of an FBI agent who tries to stop Abagnale’s fraudulent activities. The film is entertaining from start to finish, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating each new scene, even on rewatch.

Release Date: December 25, 2002
Runtime: 141 minutes

6. ‘That Thing You Do!’ (1996)

Directed by Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks became a triple threat in 1996 with his writer and directorial debut, “That Thing You Do!” This musical dramedy allowed Hanks to showcase his talents in another area of the entertainment industry, and the film became an Academy Award- and Golden Globe-nominated success.

The movie centers on a fictional pop band called the Wonders, depicting their rise to fame and subsequent fall as they grapple with being labeled a one-hit wonder. Its originality and memorable score contributed to its success among audiences, making it an entertaining addition to Hanks’ filmography and a brilliant early example of his versatility as a performer.

Release Date: October 4, 1996
Runtime: 108 minutes

5. ‘The Polar Express’ (2004)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

A combination of live-action and motion capture technology came together in 2004 to create “The Polar Express,” a unique piece of cinema. For many, nothing says cozy, festive fun like hot chocolate, blankets, and watching this animated Christmas classic. Though it may not be universally adored in Tom Hanks’ filmography, it’s undeniably one of his most unique films.

“The Polar Express” tells a story every child dreams of: when a train bound for the North Pole arrives outside a young boy’s window on Christmas Eve, it sets off a magical journey to meet Santa Claus. Though the film received mixed critical reviews and some viewers were unsettled by its animation style, it has become one of the most rewatchable Christmas movies for many.

Release Date: November 10, 2004
Runtime: 100 minutes

4. ‘Apollo 13’ (1995)

Directed by Ron Howard

“Apollo 13” is one of the highest-rated films centered on the Space Race, depicting the tense events of NASA’s 1970 lunar mission. Directed by Ron Howard, the film stars Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, Ed Harris, and Bill Paxton, dramatizing one of NASA’s most nerve-wracking aborted missions.

This nail-biting docudrama showcases the emergency situation with stunning accuracy, thanks to Howard’s dedication to creating a faithful retelling. The nine-time Academy Award-nominated feature impressed both audiences and critics with its cinematography and performances, presenting one of the most incredible viewing experiences of 1990s cinema. In 2022, “Apollo 13” was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry, a well-deserved honor.

Release Date: June 30, 1995
Runtime: 140 minutes

3. ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ (1993)

Directed by Nora Ephron

“Sleepless in Seattle” is a romantic comedy that every movie enthusiast has heard of, even if they haven’t watched it. Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in their second of three co-starred romantic comedies, this film is a beloved classic.

Their Seattle-based love story is arguably their most cherished partnership. Loved by romance fans around the world, “Sleepless in Seattle” is a film that instantly springs to mind when thinking of iconic 90s rom-coms. As only the second directorial feature from Nora Ephron, the movie’s success launched her career, cementing her as one of the best rom-com filmmakers ever.

Release Date: June 25, 1993
Runtime: 105 minutes

2. ‘Toy Story 2’ (1999)

Directed by John Lasseter

The groundbreaking animated adventure “Toy Story” began the beloved franchise in 1995, but its sequel, “Toy Story 2,” holds an even more special place in the hearts of many fans. This film is particularly rewatchable due to its gripping story and emotional depth.

Tom Hanks voices Woody, one of Pixar’s most iconic characters, and “Toy Story 2” introduces even more memorable characters to the franchise. The original “Toy Story” may be beloved, but the second installment helped elevate the series into a true success story, with an emotional tale and one of the most heartwarming sequences in animated film history.

Release Date: November 24, 1999
Runtime: 92 minutes

1. ‘Big’ (1988)

Directed by Penny Marshall

Every child dreams of growing up quickly, but what if that wish actually came true? In the 1988 classic “Big,” young Josh Baskin (Hanks) makes a wish to be big and wakes up as an adult, navigating the world with a child’s mind.

Arguably one of Tom Hanks’ most notable credits from the 1980s, “Big” is an incredibly easy film to sit down and watch. It’s a movie that will make every adult wish they could go back to being a kid. Enjoyable, comedic, and emotional, this fantasy dramedy has something for everyone and serves as a reminder to live in the moment rather than wishing life away.

Release Date: June 3, 1988
Runtime: 104 minutes

Honorable Mentions

‘Saving Private Ryan’ (1998)

Directed by Steven Spielberg

This war drama is one of Hanks’ most critically acclaimed performances, portraying Captain John H. Miller in a gripping and realistic depiction of World War II. The film’s opening scene, depicting the D-Day invasion of Normandy, is often cited as one of the most intense and realistic battle scenes in cinema history. “Saving Private Ryan” won five Academy Awards and is a must-watch for any Tom Hanks fan, though its intense subject matter makes it less suitable for casual rewatching.

‘The Green Mile’ (1999)

Directed by Frank Darabont

Based on Stephen King’s novel, “The Green Mile” stars Tom Hanks as a death row corrections officer during the Great Depression. The film explores themes of justice, compassion, and the supernatural, making it a deeply moving experience. While it’s a fantastic film, its heavy emotional weight might make viewers think twice about rewatching it too frequently.

‘Philadelphia’ (1993)

Directed by Jonathan Demme

In “Philadelphia,” Hanks delivers a powerful performance as a lawyer who battles AIDS-related discrimination. This role earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor. The film is a landmark in cinematic history for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues and the AIDS crisis, but its serious subject matter might not make it a go-to for casual rewatching.

The Magic of Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks’ movies have a unique charm that makes them endlessly rewatchable. Whether he’s playing a stranded castaway, a child in an adult’s body, or a toy cowboy, Hanks brings a level of humanity and warmth to his roles that resonates deeply with audiences. His films cover a wide range of genres and themes, ensuring there’s a Tom Hanks movie for every mood and occasion. So, next time you’re looking for something to watch, consider revisiting one of these classic Tom Hanks movies. You won’t be disappointed.