Leonardo DiCaprio Movies: A Year-by-Year Filmography
Hey guys! Ever wondered about the complete journey of Leonardo DiCaprio through cinema? Well, you're in the right spot. This is your ultimate guide to navigating his amazing filmography, year by year. We'll dive deep into each role, highlighting the milestones and transformations that have solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s greats. Get ready for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with iconic moments and unforgettable performances. Let's get started!
Early Roles (1991-1995)
Critters 3 (1991)
Believe it or not, everyone starts somewhere, right? Leonardo DiCaprio's official foray into the world of cinema began with Critters 3. Though it might not be the blockbuster we associate with his later career, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the genesis of a star. In this sci-fi horror-comedy, DiCaprio plays Josh, a young boy battling those furry, carnivorous aliens. It's a far cry from the intense, dramatic roles he'd later become known for, but it offered him valuable on-set experience. The film itself is a low-budget affair, characteristic of early '90s horror sequels, but for DiCaprio, it was a stepping stone. Landing this role provided him with exposure to the filmmaking process, allowing him to understand the nuances of acting for the camera and working with a crew. While Critters 3 might not be on everyone's list of must-see DiCaprio films, it holds a special place in his history as the starting point of an incredible journey. It serves as a reminder that even the biggest stars have humble beginnings, and every role, no matter how small, contributes to the development of an actor's craft. Plus, it’s always fun to see a future Oscar winner fighting off alien critters!
Poison Ivy (1992)
In 1992, Leonardo DiCaprio took on a role in Poison Ivy, a thriller exploring themes of obsession and manipulation. Though not a lead role, his appearance contributed to the film's narrative tension. Poison Ivy tells the story of a troubled teen who befriends an alluring and manipulative classmate, leading to a series of dramatic and dangerous events. DiCaprio's character adds another layer to the complex relationships within the film. This role allowed him to further hone his acting skills and work within a more mature and suspenseful genre. Poison Ivy provided DiCaprio with an opportunity to learn from more experienced actors and understand the dynamics of a thriller set. It was a chance for him to explore a different kind of character, one that existed in a morally ambiguous world, far removed from the straightforward heroism often seen in mainstream cinema. Although his part may have been smaller compared to his later works, it was a significant step in broadening his range and gaining exposure to various aspects of filmmaking. The film's exploration of complex themes and its suspenseful plot provided a valuable learning experience for the young actor, setting the stage for the more challenging and nuanced roles he would take on in the future.
This Boy's Life (1993)
This Boy's Life, released in 1993, marked a significant turning point in Leonardo DiCaprio's career. Based on the memoir by Tobias Wolff, the film offered DiCaprio his first major role, starring alongside Robert De Niro. This coming-of-age drama tells the story of a young boy, Toby, who moves with his mother to Seattle and faces the challenges of dealing with an abusive stepfather, played by De Niro. DiCaprio's portrayal of Toby showcased his raw talent and ability to convey complex emotions, earning him critical acclaim. Working with an acting legend like De Niro provided DiCaprio with invaluable mentorship and insights into the craft. The film's powerful narrative and DiCaprio's compelling performance resonated with audiences, establishing him as a rising star to watch. This Boy's Life not only demonstrated DiCaprio's potential but also opened doors for him to take on more substantial roles in the future. The film's success helped solidify his position in Hollywood and paved the way for the diverse and challenging projects that would define his career. It remains a crucial film in DiCaprio's filmography, highlighting his early promise and the beginning of his journey towards becoming one of the most respected actors of his generation.
What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
Also in 1993, Leonardo DiCaprio delivered a breakthrough performance in What's Eating Gilbert Grape. He played Arnie Grape, a young man with a developmental disability, earning him his first Academy Award nomination at just 19 years old. This role demonstrated DiCaprio's incredible range and his commitment to portraying complex characters with sensitivity and authenticity. The film revolves around the Grape family in a small Iowa town, where Gilbert (played by Johnny Depp) struggles to care for Arnie and their obese mother while dreaming of a better life. DiCaprio's portrayal of Arnie was particularly praised for its accuracy and emotional depth. He spent considerable time researching and understanding the challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring his performance was respectful and genuine. What's Eating Gilbert Grape not only showcased DiCaprio's acting prowess but also highlighted his dedication to his craft. The film's critical acclaim and DiCaprio's Oscar nomination solidified his reputation as a serious actor capable of handling challenging and nuanced roles. This performance remains one of the most memorable and impactful of his career, demonstrating his ability to transform himself completely for a role and bring a character to life with remarkable empathy and understanding.
The Quick and the Dead (1995)
In 1995, Leonardo DiCaprio ventured into the Western genre with The Quick and the Dead. Directed by Sam Raimi, this action-packed film featured DiCaprio as Fee Herod, a cocky and arrogant young gunslinger. While the film itself received mixed reviews, DiCaprio's performance added a youthful and rebellious energy to the ensemble cast, which included Sharon Stone and Gene Hackman. The Quick and the Dead offered DiCaprio a chance to explore a different type of character, one that was more flamboyant and self-assured than his previous roles. Working with director Sam Raimi allowed him to experience a more stylized and visually dynamic approach to filmmaking. Although the film may not be one of DiCaprio's most critically acclaimed works, it provided him with valuable experience in a big-budget production and exposed him to a wider audience. The Quick and the Dead also allowed DiCaprio to demonstrate his versatility as an actor, proving that he could handle action-oriented roles as well as dramatic ones. This versatility would become a hallmark of his career, as he continued to take on diverse and challenging projects that pushed his boundaries and showcased his range.
The Basketball Diaries (1995)
Also in 1995, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in The Basketball Diaries, a biographical drama based on Jim Carroll's autobiographical novel. DiCaprio played Carroll, a promising high school basketball player whose life spirals out of control as he becomes addicted to heroin. This role required DiCaprio to delve into the darker aspects of human experience, portraying the physical and emotional toll of drug addiction with raw intensity. The Basketball Diaries showcased DiCaprio's willingness to take on challenging and controversial roles, further solidifying his reputation as a serious actor. His performance was praised for its authenticity and vulnerability, capturing the devastating impact of addiction on Carroll's life and relationships. The film itself is a gritty and unflinching portrayal of drug culture, and DiCaprio's commitment to the role helped bring Carroll's story to life in a powerful and visceral way. The Basketball Diaries remains a significant film in DiCaprio's career, demonstrating his ability to tackle difficult subject matter with sensitivity and depth. It also highlighted his dedication to portraying complex characters who grapple with real-world issues, a theme that would continue to resonate throughout his filmography.
Total Eclipse (1995)
Rounding out 1995, Leonardo DiCaprio took on the role of Arthur Rimbaud in Total Eclipse. This historical drama explored the tumultuous relationship between the French poets Arthur Rimbaud and Paul Verlaine. Total Eclipse offered DiCaprio another opportunity to portray a complex and controversial figure, delving into the themes of passion, obsession, and artistic genius. His portrayal of Rimbaud was bold and provocative, capturing the poet's rebellious spirit and his intense connection with Verlaine. The film itself is a visually stunning and emotionally charged exploration of the artists' lives, and DiCaprio's performance was a key element in bringing their story to life. Total Eclipse allowed DiCaprio to further showcase his range as an actor, demonstrating his ability to handle both the physical and emotional demands of a challenging role. This performance solidified his reputation as a risk-taker, willing to take on unconventional projects that pushed the boundaries of his craft. Total Eclipse remains a significant film in DiCaprio's career, highlighting his early willingness to explore complex and controversial themes and his commitment to portraying historical figures with depth and authenticity.
Blockbuster Era (1996-2002)
Romeo + Juliet (1996)
In 1996, Leonardo DiCaprio became a global heartthrob with his portrayal of Romeo in Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet. This modern adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tragedy brought the timeless love story to a new generation, with DiCaprio's charismatic performance capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film's vibrant visuals, contemporary setting, and energetic soundtrack made it a cultural phenomenon, and DiCaprio's portrayal of Romeo cemented his status as a major movie star. Romeo + Juliet was a commercial and critical success, catapulting DiCaprio to international fame and solidifying his position as one of Hollywood's most sought-after actors. The film's impact extended beyond the box office, influencing fashion, music, and popular culture. DiCaprio's performance as Romeo was praised for its emotional depth and his ability to convey the passion and tragedy of Shakespeare's words in a modern context. Romeo + Juliet remains one of the most iconic and beloved films of DiCaprio's career, and it played a significant role in shaping his public image and establishing him as a leading man.
Titanic (1997)
Speaking of iconic, 1997 brought us Titanic. Leonardo DiCaprio starred as Jack Dawson in James Cameron's epic romantic disaster film, which became a worldwide phenomenon. Titanic tells the story of Jack, a poor artist, and Rose (played by Kate Winslet), a wealthy young woman, who fall in love aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. The film's sweeping romance, stunning visuals, and tragic storyline captivated audiences, making it one of the highest-grossing films of all time. DiCaprio's heartfelt performance as Jack cemented his status as a global superstar, and the film's success made him a household name. Titanic won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and its cultural impact continues to be felt today. DiCaprio's portrayal of Jack Dawson remains one of his most recognizable and beloved roles, and the film's success helped solidify his position as one of the most talented and bankable actors in Hollywood. Titanic is not just a film; it's a cultural touchstone, and DiCaprio's contribution to its success is undeniable.
The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)
Following the massive success of Titanic, Leonardo DiCaprio took on a dual role in The Man in the Iron Mask (1998). He played both King Louis XIV and his secret twin brother, Philippe, in this swashbuckling historical drama. The film, based on a part of Alexandre Dumas' The Three Musketeers, follows the Musketeers as they attempt to replace the cruel King Louis with his more virtuous brother. DiCaprio's performance allowed him to showcase his versatility, portraying both the arrogance and ruthlessness of Louis and the compassion and vulnerability of Philippe. While the film received mixed reviews, DiCaprio's dual performance was generally praised. The Man in the Iron Mask offered DiCaprio a chance to explore a different genre, moving away from the romantic roles he had become known for and delving into the world of action and adventure. This role helped broaden his range and demonstrate his ability to handle complex characters in a historical setting. Although the film may not be one of DiCaprio's most critically acclaimed works, it was a commercial success and further solidified his status as a leading man.
The Beach (2000)
In 2000, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in The Beach, a controversial adventure film directed by Danny Boyle. DiCaprio played Richard, a young American backpacker seeking adventure in Thailand, who discovers a secret, idyllic beach community. The film explores themes of escapism, paradise, and the darker side of human nature. The Beach received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its visuals and atmosphere, while others criticized its plot and character development. DiCaprio's performance was also met with varied opinions, with some finding it compelling and others feeling it lacked depth. Despite the mixed reception, The Beach was a commercial success, and it remains a notable film in DiCaprio's career. The film's stunning locations and its exploration of complex themes made it a visually and intellectually stimulating experience for audiences. The Beach also marked a turning point in DiCaprio's career, as he began to take on more challenging and unconventional roles that pushed his boundaries and challenged his audience.
Gangs of New York (2002)
After a brief hiatus, Leonardo DiCaprio returned to the screen in 2002 with Gangs of New York, directed by Martin Scorsese. This marked the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration between DiCaprio and Scorsese. In Gangs of New York, DiCaprio played Amsterdam Vallon, a young man seeking revenge for his father's death in the violent world of 19th-century New York City. The film is a sprawling epic that explores themes of immigration, corruption, and the birth of modern America. DiCaprio's performance was praised for its intensity and vulnerability, and the film itself was a critical and commercial success. Gangs of New York earned DiCaprio his first nomination for a Golden Globe Award and solidified his status as a serious actor capable of handling complex and demanding roles. The film's success also marked a turning point in Scorsese's career, as he began to work more frequently with DiCaprio, leading to some of the most memorable and acclaimed films of the 21st century.
Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Also in 2002, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Catch Me If You Can, directed by Steven Spielberg. This biographical crime comedy-drama tells the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a young con artist who successfully impersonated a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all before his 19th birthday. DiCaprio's charming and charismatic performance as Abagnale was widely praised, and the film was a critical and commercial success. Catch Me If You Can allowed DiCaprio to showcase his versatility as an actor, demonstrating his ability to handle both comedic and dramatic elements with ease. The film's fast-paced plot, witty dialogue, and stylish visuals made it a crowd-pleasing experience, and DiCaprio's performance was a key element in its success. Catch Me If You Can earned DiCaprio his second nomination for a Golden Globe Award and further solidified his reputation as one of Hollywood's most talented and versatile actors. The film's success also marked a significant moment in Spielberg's career, as he continued to explore different genres and work with some of the most talented actors in the industry.
Continued Success (2004-Present)
The Aviator (2004)
In 2004, Leonardo DiCaprio reunited with Martin Scorsese for The Aviator, a biographical drama about the life of Howard Hughes. DiCaprio's riveting portrayal of Hughes earned him widespread critical acclaim and his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The Aviator explores Hughes's life as a successful film producer and aviation pioneer, as well as his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The film's lavish production design, stunning visuals, and DiCaprio's compelling performance made it a critical and commercial success. The Aviator earned DiCaprio his first Golden Globe Award for Best Actor and solidified his status as one of the most respected and talented actors in Hollywood. The film's success also marked a significant moment in Scorsese's career, as he continued to explore complex characters and historical events with DiCaprio as his leading man.
The Departed (2006)
Two years later, in 2006, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in The Departed, another collaboration with Martin Scorsese. This crime thriller, a remake of the Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs, features DiCaprio as Billy Costigan, an undercover state trooper infiltrating the Irish mob in Boston. The film's tense plot, sharp dialogue, and outstanding performances from DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson made it a critical and commercial success. The Departed earned DiCaprio his third nomination for a Golden Globe Award and finally won Scorsese his long-awaited Academy Award for Best Director. The film's success solidified DiCaprio's reputation as a versatile actor capable of handling complex and demanding roles, and it remains one of the most acclaimed and popular films of his career.
Blood Diamond (2006)
Also in 2006, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Blood Diamond, a political war thriller directed by Edward Zwick. DiCaprio played Danny Archer, a Rhodesian smuggler who becomes involved in the search for a rare pink diamond during the Sierra Leone Civil War. The film explores themes of conflict diamonds, exploitation, and the human cost of war. DiCaprio's performance earned him critical acclaim and his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Blood Diamond allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and morally ambiguous characters, and it further solidified his reputation as a serious actor committed to telling important stories. The film's success helped raise awareness of the issue of conflict diamonds and the devastating impact of war on African communities.
Body of Lies (2008)
In 2008, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Body of Lies, a spy thriller directed by Ridley Scott. DiCaprio played Roger Ferris, a CIA operative working in the Middle East to track down a terrorist leader. The film explores themes of espionage, political intrigue, and the moral complexities of the war on terror. Body of Lies offered DiCaprio a chance to work with another acclaimed director and explore a different genre. His performance was praised for its intensity and commitment, and the film itself was a commercial success. Body of Lies allowed DiCaprio to further showcase his versatility as an actor and his ability to handle challenging and demanding roles.
Revolutionary Road (2008)
Also in 2008, Leonardo DiCaprio reunited with Kate Winslet in Revolutionary Road, directed by Sam Mendes. This drama, based on the novel by Richard Yates, explores the disillusionment and unhappiness of a suburban couple in the 1950s. DiCaprio's powerful and emotional performance earned him widespread critical acclaim and his seventh nomination for a Golden Globe Award. Revolutionary Road allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and emotionally challenging roles, and his chemistry with Winslet was praised by critics and audiences alike. The film's success solidified DiCaprio's reputation as one of the most talented and respected actors in Hollywood.
Shutter Island (2010)
In 2010, Leonardo DiCaprio once again teamed up with Martin Scorsese for Shutter Island, a psychological thriller set in a mental institution on a remote island. DiCaprio played Teddy Daniels, a U.S. Marshal investigating the disappearance of a patient. The film's twisting plot, suspenseful atmosphere, and DiCaprio's compelling performance made it a critical and commercial success. Shutter Island allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and mentally challenging roles, and it further solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood. The film's success also marked another milestone in Scorsese's career, as he continued to explore different genres and work with DiCaprio as his leading man.
Inception (2010)
Also in 2010, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Inception, a mind-bending science fiction action film directed by Christopher Nolan. DiCaprio played Dom Cobb, a skilled thief who extracts information from his targets' dreams. The film's innovative concept, stunning visuals, and DiCaprio's compelling performance made it a critical and commercial success. Inception allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and intellectually stimulating roles, and it further solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and versatile actors in Hollywood. The film's success also marked a significant moment in Nolan's career, as he continued to push the boundaries of filmmaking and create visually stunning and intellectually challenging films.
J. Edgar (2011)
In 2011, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in J. Edgar, a biographical drama directed by Clint Eastwood. DiCaprio played J. Edgar Hoover, the controversial first director of the FBI. The film explores Hoover's life, career, and personal relationships, as well as the controversies surrounding his leadership. DiCaprio's performance earned him critical acclaim and his eighth nomination for a Golden Globe Award. J. Edgar allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and historically significant roles, and it further solidified his reputation as a serious actor committed to telling important stories.
Django Unchained (2012)
In 2012, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Django Unchained, a controversial Western film directed by Quentin Tarantino. DiCaprio played Calvin Candie, a brutal and charismatic slave owner in the antebellum South. The film explores themes of slavery, racism, and revenge. DiCaprio's performance earned him critical acclaim and his fifth Academy Award nomination. Django Unchained allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle complex and morally ambiguous characters, and it further solidified his reputation as a risk-taker willing to take on challenging and controversial roles.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
In 2013, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in The Great Gatsby, another collaboration with Baz Luhrmann. He played Jay Gatsby in this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel. The film's lavish production design, contemporary soundtrack, and DiCaprio's charismatic performance made it a commercial success. The Great Gatsby allowed DiCaprio to showcase his ability to handle romantic and iconic roles, and it further solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile and talented actors in Hollywood.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Also in 2013, Leonardo DiCaprio reunited with Martin Scorsese for The Wolf of Wall Street, a black comedy crime film based on the memoir of Jordan Belfort. DiCaprio played Belfort, a stockbroker who engages in rampant corruption and fraud on Wall Street. The film's outrageous humor, fast-paced plot, and DiCaprio's energetic performance made it a critical and commercial success. The Wolf of Wall Street earned DiCaprio his first Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy and his sixth Academy Award nomination.
The Revenant (2015)
In 2015, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in The Revenant, an epic survival drama directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. DiCaprio played Hugh Glass, a frontiersman on a fur trading expedition in the 1820s who is left for dead after being mauled by a bear. The film explores themes of survival, resilience, and revenge. DiCaprio's powerful and visceral performance earned him widespread critical acclaim and his long-awaited Academy Award for Best Actor. The Revenant is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that showcases DiCaprio's dedication to his craft and his ability to handle physically and emotionally demanding roles.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
In 2019, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, a comedy-drama film directed by Quentin Tarantino. DiCaprio played Rick Dalton, a fading television star struggling to find work in the changing landscape of Hollywood in 1969. The film explores themes of nostalgia, fame, and the transition from the Golden Age of Hollywood to a new era. DiCaprio's performance earned critical acclaim and his tenth nomination for a Golden Globe Award.
Don't Look Up (2021)
In 2021, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Don't Look Up, a satirical science fiction black comedy film written, produced, and directed by Adam McKay. DiCaprio played Dr. Randall Mindy, an astronomer attempting to warn humanity about an approaching comet that will destroy planet Earth. The film explores themes of climate change denial, political apathy, and media sensationalism. DiCaprio's performance earned praise, with critics highlighting his ability to blend humor with dramatic weight. Don't Look Up received mixed reviews but proved to be a major success on Netflix, becoming one of its most-watched films.
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
In 2023, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese, marking their sixth collaboration. This Western crime drama is based on David Grann's 2017 non-fiction book of the same name. DiCaprio portrays Ernest Burkhart, a man entangled in the Osage Nation murders in the 1920s. The film explores themes of greed, corruption, and the systemic exploitation of Native Americans. Killers of the Flower Moon received widespread acclaim, with critics praising DiCaprio's performance, Scorsese's direction, and the film's powerful storytelling.
So there you have it, folks! Leonardo DiCaprio's incredible filmography, year by year. From his humble beginnings in Critters 3 to his Oscar-winning performance in The Revenant and beyond, DiCaprio has consistently proven himself to be one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation. His commitment to his craft, his willingness to take risks, and his ability to bring complex characters to life have made him a true icon of cinema. What's your favorite Leo movie? Let me know in the comments below!
