Liev Schreiber’s 10 Best Movies, Ranked

Liev Schreiber has graced audiences with an array of memorable roles throughout his career, but his most impressive work has left an undeniable mark on the entertainment industry. Schreiber’s ability to immerse himself in a wide array of characters and narratives without detracting from their emotional depth demonstrates his prowess and range as an actor. His commitment to authenticity elevates the storytelling, making him a standout presence in the world of cinema.

Schreiber’s filmography not only showcases his remarkable talent but also underscores his dedication to his craft. Beyond mere entertainment, Schreiber’s choice of projects often reflects a commitment to exploring important societal issues and complex human experiences. Whether tackling themes of justice, morality, or identity, his contributions to cinema extend far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

10 Goon (2011)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Ross “The Boss” Rhea

At once lauded as one of Canada’s best comedies and still criminally underrated, Goon is a shoo-in for Liev Schreiber’s best works. Celebrated for its affable protagonist and sharp script, the film received several nominations at the Canadian Screen Awards for its direction, writing, and heartfelt performances. Although Goon can’t quite compete with Schreiber’s top performers, its cultural impact and refreshing twist on the underdog narrative cement it as a must-watch in the actor’s expansive filmography.

9 Party Girl (1995)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Nigel

Although Liev Schreiber played a supporting role in Party Girl, the film’s authentic portrayal of underrepresented communities, and its enduring impact on fashion, reinforces its significance in his filmography. To this day, protagonist Mary’s bold wardrobe choices are referenced and emulated in fashion editorials, runway shows, and by fashion enthusiasts the world over (via Vogue). Along with its representation of the LGBTQ+ community – which was especially impressive in the political climate of the 1990s – Party Girlcontinues to be celebrated for its enduring relevance in contemporary discussions on diversity and inclusivity in cinema.

8 Walking and Talking (1996)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Andrew

Walking and Talking is lauded not only for its stylish and witty storytelling but also for its sincere depiction of friendship and life’s unpredictable nature. The script thrives on its compelling dialogue, incisive humor, and standout performances from Catherine Keener and Liev Schreiber. However, its true acclaim lies in its profound exploration of the intricacies of female friendship and the journey of personal growth in adulthood, expertly showcased through its authentic and multifaceted female leads.

7 The Hurricane (1999)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Sam Chaiton

The Hurricane tells the extraordinary story of a middleweight boxer’s fight for freedom, and yet its gripping narrative is often dwarfed by Denzel Washington’s award-winning performance. Yet, Liev Schreiber’s portrayal of Sam Chaiton, a key character and contributor to the film’s script, also deserves recognition for enriching the narrative. Washington garnered 3 awards along with a slew of nominations for his powerhouse portrayal of the film’s main character. Considered one of Norman Jewison’s best films, The Hurricane delivers a powerful indictment of systemic racism and the resilience of the human spirit.

6 Spring Forward (1999)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Paul

Spring Forwardis a must-watch for its profound exploration of human connections and resilience, but Liev Schreiber’s heartwarming performance burnishes its already powerful storytelling into poetic brilliance. With breathtaking cinematography and expert direction, the film masterfully captures its most poignant moments. Its compelling characters and thought-provoking narrative deliver a deeply enriching cinematic experience, making it no surprise that the film has garnered multiple awards for its exceptional work.

5 Isle of Dogs (2018)

Liev Schreiber Voices Spots

Island of Dogs is a stop-motion animation film set in a dystopian future in Japan in which dogs have been quarantined on a remote island due to a new virus called “canine flu.” The film follows five local dogs—Chief, Rex, Boss, Duke, and King. They are fed up with their isolated existence until a boy named Atari Kobayashi ventures to the island to search for his dog, Spots. Atari receives their help, and they will protect him from the Japanese authorities who have come to retrieve him.

Release Date

March 23, 2018

Runtime

102minutes

Isle of Dogs stands as one of Liev Schreiber’s finest films, noted for its whimsical depiction of Japanese culture, its masterful use of language as an art form, and its seamless integration of breathtaking visuals. The film’s distinct stop-motion style breathes life into Wes Anderson’s unique stories, which include his exploration of loyalty and friendship. Isle of Dogs earned acclaim for its efforts, securing a nomination for Best Animated Feature Film at the Academy Awards and propelling Wes Anderson to a victorious Best Director win at the Berlin International Film Festival.

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4 Big Night (1996)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Leo

Big Night endures as one of Liev Schreiber’s most remarkable films, maintaining its relevance and impact nearly three decades after its release. While the film is rightfully acclaimed for its stellar writing, direction, and performances, its ability to capture food as a language and platform is what makes the film so resonant. With sumptuous visuals and authentic storytelling, Big Night serves as a poignant reminder that while the little things that bridge human connection may often seem elusive, they find effortless expression in the communal ritual of sharing – and preparing – food.

3 Scream (1996)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Cotton Weary

Wes Craven flips the horror-slasher genre on its head with the 1996 release of Scream, the first in the long-running franchise. The residents of Woodsboro discover a series of murders are being committed by a dangerous ghost mask-wearing killer with an obsession for classic horror movies. To survive, a group of high school students, a reporter, and a town deputy will have to subvert horror expectations and stay one step ahead of the killer.

Release Date

December 20, 1996

Runtime

111 minutes

While Scream‘s aggregator scores are lower than some of the titles that came before it, it is undoubtedly one of Liev Schreiber’s most important films thanks to its staggering and enduring impact on the horror genre and pop culture. Praised for its writing, directing, and acting, the film remains relevant even after almost thirty years. While Schreiber’s character is important in the first film, it sets the stage for him to become Scream 2‘s biggest hero.

Scream‘s undeniable mark is better illustrated by the following stats:

• Scream revived horror, becoming the first to blend scares with self-aware humor.
• Scream redefined the final girl trope, showcasing strong female characters fighting back against the killer.
• Scream is noted for exploring the changing notions of masculinity and the underlying currents of gay desire in 90s cinema.
• Scream showed studios the appeal of horror to female audiences, leading to more empowered portrayals of women in the genre.
• Scream‘s Ghostface killer became a cultural icon, boasting appearances in Dawson’s Creek, Cousin Skeeter, Beverly Hills 90210, Celebrity Deathmatch, The Sopranos, The Simpsons, Robot Chicken, and Eastbound & Down (to name just a few).
• Scream boosted the careers of its stars, like Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox, and revitalized director Wes Craven’s career.
• Scream‘s influence spans beyond horror, inspiring filmmakers and becoming a cultural touchstone.
• Scream launched a successful franchise, inspiring a new generation of horror filmmakers.

2 Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018)

Liev Schreiber Voices Wilson Fisk/Kingpin

In the first animated Spider-Man film released in theaters, Miles Morales, a teenager who idolizes Spider-Man, gains Spider-Man powers of his own. While learning to use his new abilities, Miles crosses parallel dimensions and teams up with the different versions of Spider-Man from those dimensions to stop a threat to all reality. 

Release Date

December 14, 2018

Runtime

117 minutes

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse emerges as one of Liev Schreiber’s most exceptional films, if not his pinnacle achievement. The film earned widespread critical acclaim by revitalizing the superhero genre with its bold storytelling and striking animation, with a third Spider-Verse installment on the way. Its profound influence on animation set new standards that continue to inspire future projects, cementing Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse as a defining moment in Schreiber’s illustrious career.

Here is a list of the film’s impressive accolades:

• Won Best Animated Feature Film at the 76th Golden Globe Awards
• Won Best Animated Feature Film at the 24th Critics’ Choice Awards
• Won Best Animated Feature Film at the 91st Academy Awards
• First non-Disney or Pixar film to win Best Animated Feature since Rango (2011)
• Appeared in first place on 5 critics’ top ten lists, according to Metacritic.
• Ranked 9 on New York Magazine’s list of the best films of the decade
• The screenplay is listed as number seventy-one on the Writers Guild of America’s “101 Greatest Screenplays of the 21st Century (So Far)”

1 Spotlight (2015)

Liev Schreiber Portrays Marty Baron

Based on a true story, Spotlight is a drama film that tells the story of reporters who are privy to terrible details about goings on within the Roman Catholic Church. When several allegations are levied against the church, the Boston Globe sends out a team of reporters to investigate John Geoghan, who was accused of molesting several children. Believing there is a cover-up, the team goes to incredible lengths to find the truth and prove the guilt and complicity of both John and the church.

Release Date

November 25, 2015

Runtime

128minutes

Crowned as Liev Schreiber‘s paramount cinematic achievement, Spotlight transcends mere entertainment to become a cornerstone of contemporary filmography. Schreiber’s portrayal as the steadfast editor guiding the Boston Globe’s investigative team shines as a testament to his versatile talent and dedication. While Spotlight garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades, it’s noteworthy for the film’s surprising ability to delicately navigate sensitive material – with Vatican Radio praising the Boston Globe team for being “paladins of the need for justice”. Its enduring impact, both culturally and cinematically, cements it as Schreiber’s magnum opus, showcasing his ability to elevate storytelling to its highest form.