Nicholas Hoult's best films

Nicholas Hoult continues to rise as one of Hollywood's most exciting young actors, and while he has some exciting projects on the horizon, he's already built a strong career for himself. Hoult has been around for a while, considering his recognition came quite early with Hugh Grant's 2002 comedy-drama, About a boy. Since then, Hoult has starred in independent films and big-budget blockbusters, achieving success in most of them.

At just 32 years old, his filmography is already full of some of the best films of the last 20 years. He has appeared in smaller independent films and has also been in some big franchise films. He played the heroic role that audiences rooted for and was just as effective as the chilling villain. With a number of high-profile films on the horizon, including playing Lex Luthor in James Gunn's SupermanIt's the perfect time to look back on Hoult's career.

12

The True Story of the Kelly Gang (2019)

As Constable Fitzpatrick

The True Story of the Kelly Gang tells the fictional story of a real-life Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly, and his gang operating in the 1870s. Ned is one of the most controversial characters in the history of global crime, considered by many to be a noble thief and the true Robin Hood. Hoult plays police officer Constable Fitzpatrick and showcases his acting skills in some of the film's most intense scenes, which he shares with another young actor, George MacKay.

This is a story that has been told in numerous media outlets over the years, but this version offers an intense and gripping account of the legendary outlaw. Hoult is part of an exceptional cast that includes Russell Crowe and Charlie Hunnam, with the strong ensemble elevating the period adventure beyond some of its familiar tropes.

11

Down the Mountain (2007)

As David Phillips

Descending the mountain is a 2007 TV movie that wasn't seen by a wide audience, but touched the hearts of those who managed to see it. The plot revolves around two teenage brothers: David (Nicholas Hoult), the rebellious younger brother, and the older brother, Ben (Tommy Jessop), who has Down syndrome.

This silent drama touches the heart and is determined not to leave anyone's eyes dry after watching it. Hoult gives a subtle performance as a character full of emotions, hormones and resentment from his brother, who he feels gets more attention from his family and society. It's a moving look at sisterhood with complex characters and a grounded story. Hoult shows how his talents grew from his roles as a child actor by directing the film.

10

The Banker (2020)

As Matt Steiner

Nicholas Hoult has shown that he is capable of standing out and impressing, even in supporting roles. Based on the real lives of the first black American bankers in the United States, The banker shows the complicated path that led men to their status in the 1950s. This drama addresses the socially relevant topic of racism and stays close to the era with style, clothing and soundtrack.

A film full of charismatic and charming actors in addition to Hoult, the film stars Anthony Mackie and Samuel L. Jackson. Hoult plays Matt Steiner, a man who presented himself as the face of the operation and the company in meetings. The three main performances are the highlights of the The banker, as each actor makes their character compelling, interesting, and easy to root for. It's a fascinating discovery of a lost piece of American history.

9

X-Men: First Class (2011)

As Hank McCoy

X-Men: First Class is the fourth main installment of X-Men franchise, and after the lackluster reception of X-Men: The Last Standthis was seen as a welcome return to form, while also infusing the franchise with a fun retro style. The film follows the early years of Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Eric Lenchner (Michael Fassbender), as they met and worked as friends to form a team of mutant heroes.

Director Matthew Vaughn managed the nearly impossible task of creating a great prequel with a strong, solid plot, stylish direction, and impressive performances from the cast. In First class, Hoult takes on the role of the younger version of the Beastcharacter previously played by Kelsey Grammer. Hoult's natural charm and seriousness make the audience feel this character is kind and gentle despite his scarier appearance.

8

About a Boy (2002)

As Marcus Brewer

Many people may have forgotten that Nicholas Hoult is one of those rare actors who manages to escape the child actor phase of his career and become a star later in life. However, looking back About a boyit's hard not to be impressed by his young performance. When irresponsible single Will Freeman meets shy 12-year-old Marcus (Hoult) at the Single Parents Alone Together community, his entire life changes forever. He develops a bond with a child that he has never experienced before and begins to change his perspective on life and love.

At a young age, Hoult was able to create a very tender and honest chemistry with the experienced actor Hugo Grantwho stole many hearts with his romantic comedy characters. This young actor's serious performance in About a Boy it moves even the cruelest viewer, which is fitting for a film about human connection. It's a film that goes beyond the typical genre, earning an Oscar nomination for its funny and touching script.

7

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

As Hank McCoy

A sequel to X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) and X-Men: First Class (2011), Days of Future Past combines two time periods and their forces to save the future. As the original cast of the X-Men faces extinction in a future where mutants are hunted, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is sent back in time to find young Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and recruit him to help stop the that is to come.

Hoult reprises the role of Hank McCoy, who joins Wolverine and Charles on their mission in the 1970s. The film achieves near perfection in terms of combining the original cast with their younger counterparts, while also offering an experience immersive and exciting cinematography. All the characters shine in the film and Beast gets the chance to truly show off his incredible power and strength.

6

A Single Man (2009)

As Kenny Potter

Directed by designer Tom Ford, A single man is a beautiful piece of cinema that explores the tragedy of loss and the desire for acceptance. British actor Colin Firth received an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for his reserved but impactful performance in the film. A single man follows George (Firth), a closeted gay college professor in 1960s California. He learns of his boyfriend's sudden death and struggles to deal with the news while reminiscing about their romance.

Hoult plays college student Kenny in the film, who takes an interest in George. The tenderness with which Kenny's character treats George is heartbreaking, with Hoult bringing kindness and light to the film. While Firth's performance certainly stands out, the film is a beautifully shot and gripping drama, full of sadness and an unexpected life-affirming quality.

5

The Order (2024)

As Bob Mathews

There's a lot of excitement about Nicholas Hoult's upcoming performance as Lex Luthor in Supermanbut one of Hoult's recent films proves that he can excel in the role of a villain. The Order is a crime thriller starring Jude Law as an FBI agent who begins investigating a series of bank robberies in the 1980s and comes to believe he has ties to a white supremacist organization. Hoult plays the charismatic but dangerous leader of the terrorist group.

In keeping with the intense and grounded true crime aspects of the film, The Order offers a thrilling heist film combined with a thriller. Reminds me of movies like Warm upit's a brave journey underpinned by some excellent performances. Law is excellent as the stoic hero, while Hoult is very impressive in his rare villainous role, bringing a sinister nature to an otherwise grounded character.

4

Juror #2 (2024)

As Justin Kemp

One of Nicholas Hoult's latest films are also his best leading role. Directed by Clint Eastwood, Juror #2 stars Hoult as Justin, a recovering alcoholic with a child on the way who is selected as a jury member in a murder case. However, upon hearing the details of the case, Justin begins to realize that he is actually responsible for this death.

The film presents a gripping moral dilemma, with Hoult perfectly playing this man who turned his life around only to be faced with the choice of accepting the consequences or letting someone else be punished. Juror #2 It could be Eastwood's last film, and if that's true, the legendary filmmaker goes out on a high note with a riveting courtroom drama.

As Tyler Ledford

Although Nicholas Hoult has played many lovable and heroic characters, he is also not afraid to play deeply unlikable characters, as in The menu. The dark, satirical comedy follows a group of people who are personally selected to participate in an exclusive dining experience with a renowned chef (Ralph Fiennes) at his isolated island restaurant. Hoult and Anya Taylor-Joy star The menu cast as two of the customers who realize something sinister is at play.

The menu received a great response from critics and audiences, who praised its dark silliness, well-constructed thriller elements, and great performances. The film brings to light the themes of class privilege, narcissism and standards of satisfaction in today's society. His frankness may be appalling to some viewers, but it will certainly give people food for thought about the imperfections of the modern world.

2

The Favorite (2018)

As Robert Harley

The favorite is a product of the unique mind of Yorgos Lanthimos and features Nicholas Hoult as part of an incredible ensemble of actors. Set in the 18th century, it tells the story of the fight between Lady Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz) and her cousin, Abigail Hill (Emma Stone), for the love and attention of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman). Hoult plays Robert Harley, who inserts himself into the middle of the rivalry, hoping to gain control of the outcome.

The film is a witty and darkly comic satire of palace life, filled with intriguing characters, all filled with their own insecurities. All three of the film's female stars were nominated for an Oscar, with Colman winning for Best Actress, and the film itself earned a Best Picture nomination. Hoult would later return to work with the film's writer, Tony McNamara, on the show The Great, which is very similar in tone and one of Hoult's best roles.

1

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Like Nux

After 30 years since the last entry in the franchise, Mad Max: Fury Road it became a film that set a very high standard for future action films. Tom Hardy takes on the role of the lone antihero in the wastelands who reluctantly helps a fellow warrior protect a group of women against a vengeful warlord.

This reboot in Mad Max The franchise is full of surprising post-apocalyptic scenarios and tells a great story about humanity and hope. Director George Miller ensured the greatness of every performance in the film, including Hoult, who played Nux, a member of Immortan Joe's War Boys army who switches sides and joins Max's cause in the war. The film is a relentless action ride with effortless world-building that makes this saga fascinating after so long.