The Key Films of Gene Hackman

      We honor one of cinema's greatest talents, the late Gene Hackman, through ten must-see films…

      One of the finest to ever grace the screen has sadly passed away recently. Gene Hackman’s remarkable career was, in many respects, quite unique. He captivated audiences with his intense presence and ability to command attention on screen. Whether playing a menacing villain, an unyielding anti-hero, or a formidable authority figure, Hackman carried a rare charisma and weight in every role. A true character actor, he was often considered not conventionally handsome enough for stardom early in his career. Nevertheless, as evidenced by his extensive filmography, he frequently took center stage in leading roles, even though he did not fit the mold of typical leading men like Cary Grant or Harrison Ford.

      It's also uncommon to find Hackman appearing in truly poor films; one notable exception was his return to comic book villainy in the cash grab Superman IV: The Quest For Peace, where he reprised his role as Lex Luthor.

      Not surprisingly, Hackman was often recognized during awards seasons, with five Oscar nominations—two of which he won. With so many classics to choose from, it's challenging to select just a few, but here are ten essential films to watch…

      **Superman: The Movie**

      This film set the standard for comic book adaptations, a benchmark that none have quite matched since. This is due in part to Richard Donner’s expert direction, as well as Christopher Reeve’s iconic portrayal of both Superman and his secret identity, Clark Kent—no one has come close since, despite what fans might claim. Then there’s Hackman; alongside Ned Beatty’s bumbling Otis, he transformed Lex Luthor into a villainous character who radiated nonchalance, arrogance, and cleverness, resembling an unscrupulous used car salesman. Despite Luthor’s grand schemes of world domination and chaos, Hackman infused him with an odd charm, a trait seldom replicated by later portrayals of comic book villains. Ironically, he even toned down his usual menacing intensity for this performance.

      **The French Connection**

      Hackman’s breakthrough came in Bonnie and Clyde, earning him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. A few years later, in the midst of Hollywood’s golden age that began with Bonnie and Clyde, he starred in The French Connection as the determined and unconventional cop, Popeye Doyle. William Friedkin’s taut and gritty crime thriller is not only exceptional but thrilling. While the film is often noted for its spectacular car chase, the true driving force is Hackman, with solid support from the underrated Roy Scheider. Hackman mastered the art of playing bold and brash characters who proposed never to let anyone else outshine them.

      **Scarecrow**

      This lesser-known film, although it received some acclaim at release, has largely faded from cinematic memory. Released during an extraordinary period in American cinema, Scarecrow features Hackman and Al Pacino as an unlikely duo traveling East together. While it may not reach the heights of classics like The Godfather or The French Connection, it remains an engaging and quirky road movie showcasing the talents of both stars early in their careers, even if Hackman was already in his 40s.

      **The Conversation**

      Between The Godfather and its sequel, Francis Ford Coppola sought to create something more intimate and less grandiose. The Conversation is anything but half-hearted; it matches the craftsmanship of his previous work. With an outstanding script, superb direction, and arguably unmatched sound design, it stands as one of the best paranoia thrillers ever. Hackman, typically known for larger-than-life characters, delivers a subdued and introspective performance as Harry, a surveillance expert grappling with guilt, repression, and paranoia. This may be his finest performance.

      **Mississippi Burning**

      Alan Parker’s contributions to cinema are often overlooked, particularly given his impressive filmography, including Fame, Angel Heart, and Midnight Express. His film Mississippi Burning, loosely based on the real-life murder of three civil rights activists, features Hackman as a weary FBI agent with a dry sense of humor, working under a younger superior played by Willem Dafoe. It’s a powerful and well-acted film that captures a troubling chapter of American history, highlighted by Hackman’s effortlessly compelling performance and Frances McDormand’s standout role, all driven by Trevor Jones’s score.

      **Hoosiers**

      The classic underdog sports movie is a familiar trope, yet Hoosiers stands out, featuring Hackman as a disgraced basketball coach tasked with revitalizing a high school team’s fortunes. This film hits all the expected notes but elevates the familiar formula. Hackman is as commanding as ever, complemented by a stellar performance from Dennis Hopper.

      **Night Moves**

      Hackman reunited with Arthur Penn for Night Moves, another underappreciated treasure. This mid-'70s neo-noir may not