The Five Best John Lithgow Movies Of His Career

So, let's talk John Lithgow. This guy is a legend. He’s been in, like, everything. From spooky villains to lovable dads, he nails it every time.

But picking just five movies from his amazing career? That’s a tough gig. It’s like trying to pick your favorite cookie. You know, the really good ones.

I’ve wrestled with this a lot. I’ve watched his movies. I’ve rewatched them. I’ve even argued with myself about it.

My list is a little… well, it’s my list. Some might call it an unpopular opinion. I prefer to think of it as “critically acclaimed by yours truly.”

So, grab your popcorn. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of John Lithgow cinema. Prepare for some delightful surprises, and maybe a little bit of head-nodding agreement.

Number Five: The Sci-Fi Masterpiece You Might Have Forgotten

Kicking things off at number five is a film that’s pure, unadulterated fun. It’s got aliens, it’s got adventure, and it’s got John Lithgow being absolutely brilliant. I’m talking about The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension.

Now, I know what some of you might be thinking. “Buckaroo… what now?” Trust me on this one. It’s a cult classic for a reason.

Lithgow plays the deliciously evil scientist, Dr. Emilio Lizardo. He’s prone to dramatic pronouncements and has a pet rhinoceros named Grover. Seriously, what’s not to love?

His performance is just so over-the-top and perfect. He commits to the absurdity with every fiber of his being. You can’t help but be charmed by his villainous antics.

And the movie itself? It’s a wild ride. Think bizarre gadgets, interdimensional travel, and a hero who’s a neurosurgeon, astrophysicist, and rock star. It’s a fever dream in the best possible way.

It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and neither does Lithgow. His portrayal of Lizardo is a masterclass in comedic villainy. He’s menacing, he’s goofy, and he’s utterly unforgettable.

This is the kind of role that shows his range. He can play the terrifying bad guy, but he can also make you laugh while he’s doing it. It’s a delicate balance, and he strikes it with ease.

So, if you're looking for something a little different, something truly unique, give Buckaroo Banzai a spin. You might just find yourself quoting Dr. Lizardo for days to come. “Laugh while you can, monkey boy!”

Number Four: The Family Film That Touches Your Heart

Moving on to number four, we have a film that’s a little more heartwarming, a little more gentle. This one is a favorite for many, and for good reason. It’s The World According to Garp.

Here, Lithgow plays Roberta Muldoon. She’s a transgender former professional football player. It was a groundbreaking role for its time, and Lithgow’s portrayal is nothing short of magnificent.

He brings such tenderness and humanity to Roberta. She’s a fierce protector and a loyal friend. Lithgow imbues her with grace and strength.

This movie deals with some heavy themes, but Roberta is a beacon of light. She navigates the world with a unique perspective and unwavering compassion. Lithgow makes you believe in her completely.

His performance is so subtle and layered. You can see the years of experience and the depth of his understanding of the human condition. It’s a performance that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The film itself is a beautifully crafted story about life, love, and loss. And at its center, you have this incredible character brought to life by an equally incredible actor. It’s a testament to Lithgow's versatility.

He can go from menacing alien to dignified, empathetic friend without missing a beat. This role proved that he wasn’t just a one-trick pony. He was a true artist.

Watching him as Roberta is a truly moving experience. It’s a performance filled with quiet dignity and profound wisdom. It’s a reminder of the power of cinema to explore complex characters with authenticity.

So, while it might be a more dramatic choice, The World According to Garp is a must-see for any Lithgow fan. It showcases his ability to inhabit a character so fully, you’ll forget you’re watching an actor.

Number Three: The Family Favorite That Made Us All a Little Scared

Alright, coming in at number three, we’re going to get a little spooky. This is a movie that many of us grew up with. It’s a classic, and John Lithgow is the reason why it works so well. I'm talking about Pet Sematary.

Yes, I know, it's a horror movie. And yes, it's genuinely terrifying. But Lithgow's performance as Jud Crandall is so much more than just a scary face.

He plays the kindly old neighbor who knows a bit too much about the local burial ground. At first, he seems like a gentle soul. Then, things take a very dark turn.

His transformation is chilling. He goes from being the comforting presence to the harbinger of doom. It’s a performance that relies on nuance and build-up.

You can see the weight of his knowledge, the regret, and the sheer terror in his eyes. He’s not just a villain; he’s a man caught in something he doesn’t fully understand, or maybe understands all too well.

The way he delivers those lines, the little twitches, the subtle shifts in his demeanor – it’s all masterful. He makes you believe in the legend of the pet sematary.

And let's be honest, that scene where he tells Louis about the burial ground? Pure, unadulterated dread. It’s etched into my memory.

This film showcases Lithgow’s ability to be both incredibly human and utterly monstrous. He can tap into the dark side of humanity with such conviction. It’s a performance that will make you jump, and then make you think.

It's a reminder that sometimes the scariest monsters are the ones that look like us. And John Lithgow, in this role, is a perfect example of that. He’s the reason this movie haunts our dreams.

Number Two: The Political Thriller That Still Feels Relevant

We’re getting close to the top! At number two, we have a film that’s packed with suspense and a performance that’s just electric. It’s a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I’m talking about The Candidate.

Okay, I know this one might surprise some people. It’s a bit older, and maybe not as widely known as some of his other work. But hear me out.

Robert Redford is the star, playing a political hopeful. But it’s Lithgow, playing a ruthless, ambitious politician named Frank MacGowan, who truly steals the show. He’s the puppet master.

His performance is so sharp, so calculating. You can practically feel the ambition radiating off him. He’s the embodiment of political maneuvering.

Lithgow plays MacGowan with such a slippery charm. He’s the kind of character you can’t quite trust, but you can’t look away from. He’s utterly captivating.

The way he manipulates people, the way he delivers his lines with that subtle smirk – it’s a masterclass in subtle menace. He’s the snake in the political garden.

This film is a brilliant commentary on the nature of politics and the compromises people make. And Lithgow’s performance is central to that message. He makes you understand the dark allure of power.

It’s a performance that’s full of intelligence and a deep understanding of human nature. He’s the strategist, the schemer, the one pulling the strings. It’s a powerful portrayal.

Even though Redford is the lead, Lithgow’s presence looms large. He’s the dark shadow that influences every decision. It’s a testament to the impact he can have, even in a supporting role.

If you appreciate a well-crafted thriller with a fantastic villain, The Candidate is a must-see. Lithgow is at his sharpest, and it’s a performance that deserves more recognition. He’s pure political poison.

Number One: The Role That Cemented His Legend

And finally, the moment you’ve all been waiting for! My number one pick for the best John Lithgow movie is… drumroll please… 3rd Rock from the Sun!

Okay, okay, I know it’s a TV show. But hear me out. This is where Lithgow absolutely shone. He redefined comedic acting for an entire generation.

As Dick Solomon, the high commander of an alien anthropological mission, he was pure genius. He was trying to understand humans, and often failing spectacularly. It was hilarious.

His commitment to the role was astounding. He embraced the silliness, the absurdity, and the sheer joy of it all. He was the anchor of the show, and the source of endless laughter.

Remember his attempts at dating? Or his passionate outbursts about meaningless things? He made us believe he was this alien trying to comprehend our bizarre world.

The way he would deliver those earnest, yet completely misguided, observations about human behavior? Perfection. It was a masterclass in comedic timing and physical comedy.

He won multiple Emmy Awards for this role, and he deserved every single one. He was a force of nature. He made us laugh until we cried.

While it’s a series and not a movie, the impact of his performance on 3rd Rock from the Sun is undeniable. It’s where he got to stretch his comedic legs to their absolute fullest. It’s where he became a household name for so many.

He was the lovable, clueless alien leader. He was the goofy professor. He was the unexpected heart of the show.

So, yes, it’s a TV show. But for me, it represents the pinnacle of his comedic brilliance and his ability to connect with a massive audience. It’s pure, unadulterated John Lithgow joy. And that, my friends, is why it’s my number one.

What do you think of my list? Did I get it right? Did I miss any of your favorites? Let me know! I’m always open to a friendly debate about the greatness of John Lithgow. He’s simply the best.