All 61 Peter Sarsgaard Movies (in Order)
Get ready to dive into the world of Peter Sarsgaard’s captivating performances as we round up some of his most memorable films. From heart-wrenching dramas to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, this article takes you on a journey through Sarsgaard’s diverse and impressive body of work.
1. Dead Man Walking (1995)
In a heart-wrenching drama, “Dead Man Walking” (1995) takes us on a poignant journey as Sister Helen Prejean, a dedicated nun, forges an unlikely bond with Matthew Poncelet, a convicted murderer on death row. This unforgettable tale of empathy, compassion, and moral complexity is brought to life by an astounding ensemble cast including Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn, delving deep into the complexities of capital punishment, a topic that continues to spark heated debates. Written and directed by Tim Robbins, and with an impressive 1 Oscar and 23 wins & 24 nominations, this powerful and thought-provoking film is a testament to the human experience and the importance of understanding the humanity of even the most heinous criminals.
2. SUBWAYStories: Tales from the Underground (1997)
SubwayStories: Tales from the Underground, released in 1997, is a compelling anthology drama that provides a unique insight into the lives of New York City subway riders. This film is a collection of 10 distinct vignettes, each exploring a different aspect of the human experience.
3. The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)
In the heart of 17th-century France, a gripping tale of deception and adventure unfolds. The Man in the Iron Mask, released in 1998, tells the story of the vicious King Louis XIV, who keeps a cruel secret hidden from his subjects — a twin brother, locked away in an iron mask, unknown to the world.
4. Another Day in Paradise (1998)
In “Another Day in Paradise, “ two junkie couples, eager to score big in the drug trade, team up to commit multiple heists. But when their plans go awry, dissent and violence ensue, leading to murder. Larry Clark’s gritty and dramatic film, starring James Woods, Melanie Griffith, and Vincent Kartheiser, is a stark portrayal of the bleak underworld of addiction and crime.
5. Desert Blue (1998)
Desert Blue” is a captivating drama from 1998, directed by Morgan J. Freeman and written by the same man. The film stars Casey Affleck, Brendan Sexton III, and Kate Hudson in compelling roles. Set in the 1990s, the story revolves around an academic fixated on roadside attractions and his famous television daughter, who stumble upon the world’s largest ice cream cone in a struggling gold-rush town.
6. Freak City (1999)
Freak City is a gripping drama film released in 1999, directed by Lynne Littman and written by Jane Shepard. The story centers around a rebellious young woman diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis who finds hope in the most unexpected place. As she is admitted to a nursing home, she discovers that the man in the adjacent room uses a motorized wheelchair due to the same disease.
7. Boys Don’t Cry (1999)
In the riveting and heart-wrenching film “Boys Don’t Cry, “ director Kimberly Peirce weaves an unforgettable tale of love, life, and the challenges that come with being transgender. Set in the rural landscape of Nebraska, the story follows Brandon Teena, a young man who struggles to come to terms with his true identity amidst a web of prejudice and bigotry. As he navigates the complexities of love and the high cost of living authentically, darker forces threaten to tear everything apart.
8. Housebound (2000)
Housebound” (2000) is a gripping thriller that explores the depths of agoraphobia and paranoia. Directed by Mari Kornhauser, the film follows a woman who rents her bungalow to a passionate chef, but her distorted perception of reality has her convinced that the man uses his knives for sinister purposes. The suspenseful plot takes an unexpected turn when the truth about the chef’s profession is revealed.
9. The Cell (2000)
The Cell” is a chilling crime thriller directed by Tarsem Singh, offering a unique blend of horror, sci-fi, and suspense. Released in 2000, this R-rated film clocks in at 1 hour and 47 minutes. The plot revolves around an F. B. I.
10. The Center of the World (2001)
In “The Center of the World, “ a successful computer engineer, played by Shane Edelman, stumbles into an unlikely and provocative encounter with a stripper, portrayed by Molly Parker, in a quaint cafe. Intrigued by her bold demeanor, the engineer proposes a peculiar deal: $10,000 in exchange for three days and three nights of no penetration. What ensues is a journey that blurs the lines between love, lust, and the ever-present search for human connection.
11. Unconditional Love (2002)
Unconditional Love”, directed by P. J. Hogan and written by Jocelyn Moorhouse and P. J. Hogan, is a lighthearted comedy-drama musical that premiered in 2002. The movie, starring Kathy Bates, Rupert Everett, and Jonathan Pryce, follows the story of Grace, a loyal wife who is shaken when her husband leaves her after 25 years of marriage. On the brink of despair, Grace takes an unexpected journey to England for the funeral of her deceased singer idol. There, she encounters the singer’s passionate Italian lover, and together they embark on a humorous and engaging quest to uncover the truth behind their idol’s mysterious death.
12. Empire (2002)
Empire” is a 2002 crime drama thriller directed by Franc. Reyes, starring John Leguizamo, Peter Sarsgaard, and Denise Richards.
13. K-19: The Widowmaker (2002)
K-19: The Widowmaker” is a gripping thriller that takes you on a nail-biting journey into Russia during the height of the Cold War era. When Russia’s first nuclear submarine, the K-19, suffers a malfunction on its maiden voyage, the crew faces their toughest challenge yet. Trapped underwater, they must risk their lives as they race against time to save the ship and prevent a catastrophic nuclear disaster.
14. The Salton Sea (2002)
From the mind of director D. J. Caruso, “The Salton Sea” (2002) is a riveting crime drama that follows a man as he becomes entangled in the dark underworld of thugs and speed junkies. Based in Palmdale, California, our protagonist must navigate a world of deception and danger while trying to escape the shadow of a tragic past. Fueled by the addictive stimulants of ephedrine and methedrine, the characters in this gritty, noir-inspired thriller find themselves caught up in a labyrinth of crime and chaos, as they try to find their way out of the moral quagmire they have stumbled upon.
15. Shattered Glass (2003)
Shattered Glass” is a compelling drama based on the true story of a young journalist who fell from grace after it was discovered that he fabricated over half of his articles from The New Republic magazine. The film, released in 2003, follows this ambitious writer as he navigates the consequences of his actions, exposing the dark underbelly of the journalistic world. With a PG-13 rating, a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes, and an IMBD rating of 7.1, “Shattered Glass” offers a gripping exploration of journalistic fraud and its far-reaching impact.
16. Sex at 24 Frames Per Second (2003)
Sex at 24 Frames Per Second is a 2003 feature-length documentary that delves into the sensational history of sex in Hollywood cinema, offering viewers a tantalizing journey through the evolution of this provocative subject. The film, directed by Kevin Burns and Steven C. Smith, is a gripping exploration of how sex has been portrayed in the world’s most influential movies and how filmmakers have successfully captivated audiences worldwide.
17. Death of a Dynasty (2003)
In “Death of a Dynasty, “ Dash, the ruthless CEO of Roc-a-Fella Records, finds himself embroiled in a heated beef with Jay Z over a young and innocent party chick named Picasso. The film takes an unfiltered and satirical look into the world of showbiz and music, exposing the chaos and drama that often lies beneath the glitzy surface.
18. Kinsey (2004)
Kinsey” is a captivating biographical drama that delves into the life of Alfred Kinsey, a pioneering scientist in the field of human sexuality research. Released in 2005 and directed by Bill Condon, the film takes viewers on a journey through Kinsey’s life, showcasing his groundbreaking work, ‘Sexual Behavior in the Human Male’, which was the first of its kind.
19. Garden State (2004)
Garden State” is a captivating drama that delves into the life of a young man, played by Zach Braff, who returns home after a decade of estrangement, following the sad passing of his mother. This poignant journey towards self-discovery comes with its fair share of challenges, emotions, and unexpected surprises, making for an unforgettable movie experience. With a talented ensemble including Peter Sarsgaard and Natalie Portman, this film expertly navigates the themes of grief, love, and redemption, while weaving in lighthearted moments of humor and romance.
20. Flightplan (2005)
Experience intense suspense in the captivating thriller Flightplan. As a grieving mother and her daughter embark on a flight home to America from Berlin, a chilling encounter unfolds at a lofty altitude of 30,000 feet.
21. The Dying Gaul (2005)
The Dying Gaul” is a gripping drama, romance, and thriller movie released in 2005. Directed by Craig Lucas and featuring a screenplay by the same author, it boasts an impressive cast including Peter Sarsgaard, Campbell Scott, and Patricia Clarkson. The film tells the story of a grief-stricken screenwriter who unwittingly enters into a complex relationship with a woman and her film executive husband. This three-way connection unfolds with chilling results, creating a high-stakes, emotionally charged narrative.
22. The Skeleton Key (2005)
Step into the spooky streets of New Orleans with “The Skeleton Key, “ a thrilling horror-mystery set in an abandoned plantation home. Kate Hudson stars as Caroline Ellis, a hospice nurse who lands a job at the eerie estate. Haunted by the past and the house’s dark secrets, Caroline discovers a hidden room packed with Hoodoo potions and artifacts, revealing a chilling tale of soul transference.
23. Jarhead (2005)
Jarhead” is a drama-packed biographical war film that delves into the mind of a U. S. Marine sniper during the Gulf War. Directed by Sam Mendes, the movie provides an unforgettable insight into the psychological struggle faced by soldiers who are often left grappling with boredom, isolation, and turmoil back home.
24. The 20th IFP Independent Spirit Awards (2005)
The 20th IFP Independent Spirit Awards” is an iconic event that celebrates the achievements of independent filmmakers from across the USA. In 2005, the 20th edition of the awards was held, featuring a star-studded ceremony that brought together Hollywood’s elites and indie legends.
25. 2006 Independent Spirit Awards (2006)
Experience the essence of independent filmmaking at the 2006 Independent Spirit Awards, an annual celebration honoring the creativity and achievements of low-budget and indie films. Hosted by popular comedian Sarah Silverman, this 2-hour event showcases the best of independent cinema through its talented cast, including director Hany Abu-Assad and actress Amy Adams.
26. Rendition (2007)
Rendition, “ released in 2007, is a powerful thriller and drama set in the backdrop of terrorism. The film focuses on a desperate wife and mother who turns to a senator for help after her Egyptian husband, a chemical engineer, is arrested on U. S.
27. Indie Sex: Teens (2007)
Indie Sex: Teens delves deep into the realm of teenage sex and sexuality on screen, exploring how these themes have evolved and played a crucial role in adolescent education. From classic films like Splendor in the Grass to contemporary cinema, this compelling documentary sheds light on the role these mediums have had in shaping societal perceptions of teenage sexuality.
28. Year of the Dog (2007)
Year of the Dog, a 2007 comedy-drama directed by Mike White, follows the life of a secretary whose world unexpectedly transforms after her beloved Maltese dog passes away. The film weaves an intricate tale of loss, love, and new beginnings that leave viewers both mesmerized and moved.
29. Elegy (2008)
Elegy” is a 2008 drama film that follows the life of David Kepesh, a cultural critic, as his world is turned upside down by his encounters with Consuela Castillo, a well-mannered student. The film explores themes of sexual attraction, possessiveness, and the complexities of human emotion.
30. The Mysteries of Pittsburgh (2008)
The Mysteries of Pittsburgh (2008) follows the life of a recent college graduate embarking on a defining summer journey that crosses paths with both his gangster dad and the complexities of love, sexuality, and self-discovery. As the story unfolds, viewers are taken on an adventure through a whirlwind of drama, comedy, and self-reflection.
31. An Education (2009)
Dive into the captivating world of “An Education” (2009), a coming-of-age drama set in suburban London during the 1960s. Follow the journey of a teenage girl, played by Carey Mulligan, as her life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of a charming and wealthy playboy, portrayed by Peter Sarsgaard.
32. Orphan (2009)
Orphan” is a spellbinding horror movie released in 2009, starring Vera Farmiga and Peter Sarsgaard. The story revolves around a young couple, who after the tragic loss of their baby, make the decision to adopt a seemingly innocent 9-year-old girl named Esther. The plot takes a chilling turn when Esther begins to display alarming behavior.
33. In the Electric Mist (2009)
In the Electric Mist, a post-Katrina mystery set in New Orleans, detective Dave Robicheaux uncovers a chilling web of crimes involving serial killings, a decades-old lynching, and corrupt businessmen. As he delves deeper into the dark heart of his city, he encounters a haunting troupe of ghostly Confederate soldiers in a surreal series of hallucinations.
34. The 82nd Annual Academy Awards (2010)
The 82nd Annual Academy Awards, hosted by Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, bring together Hollywood’s finest for a night of glamour, celebration, and recognition. With Carey Mulligan, Macaulay Culkin, and Bradley Cooper in attendance, the awards ceremony promises an unforgettable evening filled with heartfelt speeches, stunning performances, and unexpected surprises.
35. Knight and Day (2010)
Knight and Day” is an adrenaline-pumping action-adventure comedy starring Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. The movie, set in 2010, unfolds as a young woman becomes embroiled in a mission with a disgraced CIA agent who is determined to clear his name. Filled with high-octane chase scenes, daring firefighting sequences, and clever one-liners, this film showcases the duo’s exceptional chemistry and comedic timing.
36. Green Lantern (2011)
In the 2011 release of “Green Lantern, “ Ryan Reynolds plays the character Hal Jordan, a daring test pilot whose life takes a thrilling turn when he receives an alien ring imbued with extraordinary powers. Granted entry into the prestigious intergalactic police force, the Green Lantern Corps, Hal embarks on an action-packed adventure in space. Joining him are Blake Lively and Peter Sarsgaard, bringing this tale of superhero action and adventure to life.
37. Robot & Frank (2012)
Robot & Frank” — a delightful and heartfelt movie released in 2012, takes place in the near future. The film centers around Frank, an ex-jewel thief with dementia as he tries to maintain his independence. His compassionate son surprises him with a unique gift — a highly capable robot butler specially designed to take care of him.
38. Lovelace (2013)
Lovelace” takes you on a compelling journey into the life of Linda Lovelace, a young woman whose existence was manipulated and exploited by the porn industry. Amid the backdrop of 70s America, Lovelace becomes the center of a scandal fueled by her husband’s controlling nature and the world’s thirst for sensationalism.
39. Night Moves (2013)
Night Moves” is a captivating drama and thriller film released in 2013, directed by Kelly Reichardt and written by Jonathan Raymond and Reichardt. The film’s star-studded cast includes Jesse Eisenberg, Dakota Fanning, and Peter Sarsgaard, who bring to life a group of radical environmentalists on a mission to destroy a hydroelectric dam.
40. Very Good Girls (2013)
Very Good Girls” is a captivating coming-of-age drama about two young women navigating love and loss during their first summer out of high school in New York City. When high school best friends Lilly and Erica make a pact to lose their virginity, they find their friendship tested like never before when they both fall for the same charming street artist.
41. Blue Jasmine (2013)
Blue Jasmine” is a captivating drama that follows the story of a wealthy New York socialite who, after experiencing a series of devastating events, relocates to her sister’s home in San Francisco. Strikingly beautiful but deeply troubled, she arrives with self-deception as her only companion. As the tension between the two sisters builds, she desperately tries to impose upon her sister’s life, only to realize the emptiness of her riches and the shattering reality of her own isolation.
42. Valley Uprising (2014)
Valley Uprising” is a gripping documentary that takes viewers into the heart of Yosemite Valley, where an underground community of climbers created a counterculture lifestyle. This unique group, fueled by their passion for the mountains and the adrenaline rush of climbing, lived on the outskirts of conventional norms, engaging in dumpster-diving and wild partying. Their actions, however, faced fierce opposition from the National Park Service, resulting in a clash of values and beliefs.
43. Pawn Sacrifice (2014)
In the intense, gripping drama “Pawn Sacrifice, “ directed by Edward Zwick, American chess prodigy Bobby Fischer finds himself in the crosshairs of the Cold War. The film, set during this tense political time, follows Fischer’s journey as he challenges the Soviet Empire, all while dealing with his personal struggles.
44. Ladygrey (2015)
In the small, tranquil South African town of Grey, life seems to have returned to normalcy after the tumultuous end of apartheid. However, beneath the surface, the traumatic past is never truly forgotten. Ten years on, the town’s residents go about their daily lives while suppressing the memories of the violent clashes that nearly tore them apart.
45. Experimenter (2015)
Experimenter (2015) is a thrilling biographical drama based on the real-life story of Stanley Milgram, a renowned social psychologist who conducted groundbreaking experiments on human behavior. The film takes you back to 1961, where Milgram’s radical experiments tested the limits of obedience to authority.
46. Black Mass (2015)
Black Mass” is an electrifying biographical crime drama that brings the true story of Whitey Bulger to life. Bulger, a notorious criminal from South Boston, who was the brother of a state senator, became an FBI informant with the unnerving goal of bringing down the Mafia family encroaching on his territory.
47. The Magnificent Seven (2016)
In “The Magnificent Seven” (2016), a diverse group of seven skilled gunmen come together in the face of a relentless, destructive industrialist. The vengeful young widow of a lynched man gathers an ensemble of these gunmen, each with their own distinct backgrounds, to defend her town and its inhabitants. As they band together to stand against a seemingly unstoppable force, the gunmen must confront their own pasts and vulnerabilities, even as they contend with the ultimate test of good versus evil.
48. Jackie (2016)
Jackie” is a poignant and insightful exploration of grief, loss, and resilience. Set in the aftermath of the assassination of President John F.
49. Stand for Rights (2017)
In 2017, the critically acclaimed telethon “Stand for Rights” hit the small screen, urging viewers to take a stand for their rights. With a star-studded lineup including Fred Armisen, Will Arnett, and Alec Baldwin, this three-hour event was a powerful and engaging way to raise awareness and support for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
50. Loving Pablo (2017)
Loving Pablo” is a gripping biographical drama that dives deep into the tumultuous love affair between a fearless journalist and the notorious drug lord, Pablo Escobar. The movie, which is based on a real-life person and set in the 1980s, unravels the intricate web of violence, power, and passion that engulfed the world’s biggest drug cartel.
51. Marjorie Prime (2017)
In the captivating drama “Marjorie Prime, “ an innovative service offers holographic recreations of departed loved ones, enabling a woman to reconnect with the younger version of her late husband. As the touching story unfolds, the boundaries between reality and the digital world blur, illuminating the power of family bonds and the profound impact of our past. Directed by Michael Almereyda and written by Almereyda and Jordan Harrison, “Marjorie Prime” features powerful performances by Geena Davis, Hannah Gross, and Jon Hamm.
52. Hostiles (2017)
Hostiles, released in 2018, is a powerfully dramatic western film set in 1892. The story focuses on a legendary Army Captain, played by Rosamund Pike, who is reluctantly tasked with escorting a Cheyenne chief and his family through treacherous terrain. As the group navigates their way through Montana’s rugged landscape, they find themselves in the midst of a horrifying murder that unravels the harsh realities of the American West.
53. The Lie (2018)
In “The Lie, “ a father and daughter’s bond is tested when their well-intentioned decision to give a ride to their daughter’s best friend quickly spirals into a nightmare of unimaginable proportions. As they find themselves in the midst of a shocking murder, the father and daughter must confront the brutal truth of their actions.
54. Human Capital (2019)
Human Capital (2019) is a gripping drama and thriller based on a tragic accident that leads to a complex web of consequences. Two distinct families, one a wealthy, privileged household and the other struggling to make ends meet, collide when their children embark on a tumultuous romantic journey.
55. The Sound of Silence (2019)
Experience the compelling drama of “The Sound of Silence” (2019). In this thought-provoking film, we meet Peter Sarsgaard’s character, a successful “house tuner” in New York City, who specializes in fine-tuning the acoustics of people’s homes to manipulate their emotional states. With a combination of advanced science and an unmatched understanding of the human mind, he is able to create the perfect atmosphere for his clients.
56. Mr. Jones (2019)
Mr. Jones” (2019) is a powerful and harrowing drama based on the true story of Welsh journalist Gareth Jones, who risked everything to expose the horrifying truth of the Ukrainian famine in the early 1930s. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous political landscape, “Mr.
57. Best Summer Ever (2020)
Best Summer Ever” is a heartwarming musical that tells the story of Sage and Anthony, who met and fell in love at a dance camp in Vermont. When Sage unexpectedly enrolls in the same high school as Anthony, they must navigate the challenges of high school life, including the drama of cliques, the antagonism of an evil cheerleader, and the family secret that threatens to keep Sage’s world from unraveling. With a star-studded cast, including Shannon DeVido, Rickey Alexander Wilson, and Madeline Rhodes, this engaging and uplifting film promises to make your heart sing.
58. The Guilty (2021)
The Guilty” is a gripping 2021 crime drama thriller directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Riley Keough, and Peter Sarsgaard. The film follows a demoted police officer, played by Gyllenhaal, who finds himself trapped in a web of guilt and conflict as he receives a life-altering emergency phone call from a kidnapped woman. Navigating the treacherous waters of the underworld, the tormented officer must race against time to save the woman before it’s too late — all while dealing with his own inner demons.
59. The Survivor (2021)
The Survivor” (2021), directed by Barry Levinson, is a captivating, heart-wrenching biographical drama that sheds light on the life of Harry Haft, a resilient boxer who fought for survival during World War II. Set in the aftermath of the war, Haft’s tumultuous journey takes him from concentration camps to the boxing ring, where he uses his fighting skills as a means to rediscover love and redemption. As Haft strives to overcome his traumatic past, the film explores themes of forgiveness, resilience, and the power of human connection.
60. The Lost Daughter (2021)
The Lost Daughter” is a captivating drama film that delves into the complexities of motherhood and the intricacies of family dynamics. Released in 2021, it stars Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, and Dakota Johnson, and is directed by renowned actress Maggie Gyllenhaal. The movie is set on a beach vacation and takes a gripping turn as the central character starts to grapple with past troubles.
61. The Batman (2022)
In the gripping and intense world of Gotham, a notorious serial killer targets key political figures, leaving a chilling mark on the city. As the body count rises, the enigmatic Batman must dive deep into the hidden corruption lurking within the city’s core and confront his own family’s possible involvement.
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