Oliver Reed is remembered for his magnetic presence and compelling performances that have left a lasting mark on the world of cinema. His career, spanning several decades, is marked by a diverse range of characters, each brought to life with his distinctive flair and depth. From historical epics to psychological thrillers, Reed’s versatility as an actor is unparalleled. In this article, we showcase the films that not only highlight Reed’s exceptional talent but also have cemented his legacy as one of the most dynamic and captivating actors in film history. Through this exploration, we celebrate the memorable roles and unforgettable moments that define Reed’s enduring impact on cinema. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Oliver Reed films of all time.
10. Dante’s Inferno – Ken Russell (1967)
“Dante’s Inferno,” directed by Ken Russell, presents a detailed exploration of the life of the renowned 19th-century artist and poet, Dante Gabriel Rossetti. The film captures Rossetti’s intense, often chaotic world, focusing on his relationships with his wife, Elizabeth Siddal, and his muse, Jane Morris, each relationship painted with its own unique hues of complexity and emotion. It explores the multifaceted challenges he faced, both in his personal life and in his professional endeavors, highlighting not only his struggle with addiction but also his unyielding quest for artistic perfection amidst a society riddled with conventional norms. The narrative masterfully combines Rossetti’s real-life events with scenes that are of surreal, hellish landscapes, often seen in his artwork, creating a unique blend of biography and fantasy.
Ken Russell’s direction in “Dante’s Inferno” is known for its distinctive, visually striking style paired with a dynamic storytelling approach that sets it apart. Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Rossetti is nothing short of compelling, displaying an impressive range of emotions that traverse the spectrum from passionate love to profound despair, embodying the character with remarkable depth and complexity. The film is particularly notable for its thorough exploration of the complexities inherent in the artistic process and the often-turbulent lives that artists lead. Its impact lies not just in its recounting of historical events but in its ability to vividly capture the spirit of an era where the worlds of art and personal experience were deeply intertwined.
9. Oliver! – Carol Reed (1968)
“Oliver!”, a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic novel, “Oliver Twist”, is directed by Carol Reed and set in the streets of Victorian London. The story follows the journey of Oliver Twist, a young and innocent orphan who bravely navigates a world teeming with danger and adversity. After his daring escape from the grim realities of a miserable life in a workhouse, Oliver finds himself entangled with a group of youthful pickpockets, skillfully orchestrated by the cunning and somewhat mysterious Fagin. This adaptation captures the essence of Dickens’ richly created world, full of memorable characters while also accurately illustrating the stark contrasts between the depths of poverty and the heights of affluence.
In this adaptation, Oliver Reed delivers a stand-out performance as Bill Sikes, portraying a menacing yet extraordinarily complex villain. His nuanced performance injects a remarkable depth into the character, elevating Sikes far above the typical one-dimensional antagonist, making it one of the best Oliver Reed films of all time. His portrayal brings an intriguing mix of brutality and vulnerability to the role, making his character’s actions both compelling and unsettling. The film’s success is also significantly attributed to its enchanting musical numbers, which are not only thoroughly entertaining but also remarkably effective in advancing the narrative and enriching the storyline.
8. Tommy – Ken Russell (1975)
In “Tommy,” directed by Ken Russell, The Who’s iconic rock opera is transformed into a thrilling cinematic spectacle. The story revolves around the life of Tommy, a young man who, after witnessing a traumatic event in his childhood, becomes deaf, mute, and blind. However, despite his disabilities, Tommy discovers an extraordinary and almost miraculous ability to play pinball. This unique talent soon catapults him to a level of fame that few can imagine. The film artfully portrays a complex narrative that takes a look at themes of fame, faith, and exploitation, showcasing Tommy’s transformation from a vulnerable individual into a popular figure in the adoring eyes of the public.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Frank, Tommy’s stepfather, is full of frustration, opportunism, and underlying complexity. Reed’s performance accurately captures the nature of a character who finds himself torn between genuinely caring for Tommy and exploiting his newfound fame for personal gain. His character’s moral ambiguity adds a further layer to the film’s exploration of human motivations and desires. The film is particularly notable for its combination of electrifying music and surreal imagery, brought together through ambitious and innovative storytelling. With its star-studded cast and groundbreaking visual style, “Tommy” stands not only as a groundbreaking achievement in the fusion of rock music and the art of cinema.
7. The Adventures of Baron Munchausen – Terry Gilliam (1988)
“The Adventures of Baron Munchausen,” directed by Terry Gilliam, is a fantastical journey that showcases the larger-than-life tall tales of the legendary Baron Munchausen. Set against the visually rich backdrop of a city under siege, the narrative follows the Baron as he embarks on a whimsical and adventurous quest to save the town. Accompanied by a motley crew of eccentric companions, his adventures propel him to astonishing locales such as the moon, the belly of a colossal sea monster, and through war-torn skies, artfully blending elements of reality and fantasy in a surreal and captivating narrative. The film is a celebration of the boundless power of storytelling and the imagination, highlighting the blurred lines between myth and reality, and how they shape our perceptions and experiences.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and metalworking, is not only memorable but also adds a significant layer of charm and complexity to the film. His performance skillfully captures Vulcan’s volatile nature, alongside a portrayal of his comical yet deeply endearing relationship with his wife, Venus. Reed’s role in the film stands out for its ability to inject both humor and depth into the mythical character, adding a unique dimension to the story. “The Adventures of Baron Munchausen” is widely celebrated for its boundless imaginative visuals, its creative and inventive storytelling, and its seamless and effective blend of humor with adventure, making it one of the best Oliver Reed films ever. It stands as a testament to Gilliam’s visionary direction and an exceptional showcase of Reed’s versatile acting prowess.
6. Revolver – Sergio Sollima (1973)
“Revolver,” a gripping and intense crime thriller directed by Sergio Sollima, takes place in a gritty and unyielding urban landscape. The film follows the turbulent story of Vito Cipriani, a dedicated prison warden, whose ordinary life spirals into chaos when his wife is unexpectedly kidnapped. Thrust into a situation fraught with desperation, Cipriani finds himself compelled to form an uneasy and precarious alliance with Milo Ruiz, a cunning and shrewd inmate with his own hidden agendas. Together, this unlikely pair navigate through the treacherous underbelly of the criminal world, embarking on a perilous journey to unravel the complex motive behind the kidnapping. Throughout this tense and fast-paced journey, the narrative is full of unexpected twists, intense confrontations, and moral dilemmas, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Vito Cipriani is both powerful and deeply compelling, masterfully capturing the character’s dramatic transformation from a law-abiding and principled citizen to a man driven to the brink of extremes by extraordinary circumstances. His dynamic and intense on-screen chemistry with Fabio Testi, who plays Milo Ruiz, is a significant contribution to the film’s intensity and suspense. Their interactions, marked by a blend of mistrust and mutual dependency, add a gripping layer to the unfolding drama. “Revolver” is widely celebrated for its sharp, focused direction, the complexity and depth of its characters, and its portrayal of a shadowy criminal world. The film not only showcases Oliver Reed’s exceptional talent in anchoring a high-stakes thriller but also stands as a notable and influential example of the European crime genre of the 1970s.
5. Women in Love – Ken Russell (1969)
“Women in Love,” another entry directed by Ken Russell, is a thoughtful adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s celebrated novel of the same name. Set against the dynamic and evolving social landscape of the early 20th century, the film explores the relationships of two sisters, Ursula and Gudrun Brangwen. As they navigate the complexities of love and passion, their lives become increasingly intertwined with those of two friends, Rupert Birkin and Gerald Crich. This connection leads to a series of complex romantic entanglements and intense emotional conflicts, effectively capturing the essence of Lawrence’s exploration of human relationships. The narrative skillfully probes into themes of love, personal freedom, and the ongoing quest for a deeper and more meaningful connection in relationships.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Gerald Crich is particularly noteworthy, as he captures the character’s profound inner turmoil and his struggles with intimacy and meaningful connection. Reed’s deep and nuanced performance, combined with his ability to convey the character’s complex emotional world, significantly enhances the film’s exploration of the dynamics of human relationships. His performance, along with the contributions of an equally impressive cast, adds significant depth to the film’s portrayal of the various facets of human interaction and connection. “Women in Love” is acclaimed for its bold narrative, its striking visual style, and its courageous challenge to conventional attitudes towards love and sexuality. The film stands as a significant and influential work in the history of British cinema, and as one of the best Oliver Reed films of all time.
4. The Brood – David Cronenberg (1979)
“The Brood,” a horror film directed by David Cronenberg, is widely recognized for its deeply unsettling and psychological narrative. The plot centers around the character of Frank Carveth, whose life becomes increasingly fraught with tension and mystery as his wife, Nola, undergoes an experimental and somewhat radical therapy at the Somafree Institute. As a series of strange and violent occurrences begin to manifest around Frank and their young daughter, he grows increasingly suspicious, suspecting a sinister and possibly supernatural connection to Nola’s ongoing treatment. The film explores a myriad of complex themes, including the impact of psychological trauma, the dynamics within a family, and the unsettling manifestation of inner turmoil and repressed emotions, all of which culminate in a chilling and thought-provoking narrative.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Dr. Hal Raglan, the mysterious and charismatic psychologist responsible for the controversial therapy, is captivating. His performance expertly captures the character’s complex motivations and ethical ambiguities, adding a significant layer of depth to the film’s exploration of the balance between scientific ambition and ethical responsibility. “The Brood” is celebrated for its innovative and groundbreaking approach to the horror genre, skillfully blending profound psychological depth with raw and visceral horror elements. This film stands as a testament not only to Cronenberg’s unique and visionary directorial style but also to Reed’s remarkable versatility and depth as an actor, together creating a hauntingly memorable and unforgettable cinematic experience.
3. Lion of the Desert – Moustapha Akkad (1980)
“Lion of the Desert,” a compelling historical war film directed by Moustapha Akkad, is set in the tumultuous era of the 1920s during Italy’s aggressive colonial war in Libya. The film narrates the story of Omar Mukhtar, a revered Libyan tribal leader who rises as a formidable symbol of tenacious resistance against the oppressive Italian occupation. In this gripping historical context, Oliver Reed delivers a powerful performance as General Rodolfo Graziani, the resolute and strategic Italian commander who is unwaveringly determined to quell the burgeoning Libyan resistance. The narrative masterfully unfolds as an enthralling tale, full of themes like resilience, struggle, and the unyielding spirit of the Libyan people as they valiantly fight for their independence against seemingly insurmountable odds.
Reed’s portrayal of General Graziani is both commanding and subtle, deftly illustrating the complexities and internal conflicts of a military leader embroiled in the throes of what appears to be an unwinnable and morally ambiguous war. His performance brings a critical depth to the film, portraying Graziani as a man torn between duty and the brutal realities of colonial warfare, making it one of the best Oliver Reed films of all time. “Lion of the Desert” is renowned for its epic scale, its commitment to historical authenticity, and its unflinching portrayal of the human cost and the devastating impacts of war. The film remains a landmark in Oliver Reed’s illustrious filmography, showcasing his exceptional talent in embodying complex historical figures with remarkable conviction and depth.
2. Gladiator – Ridley Scott (2000)
“Gladiator,” an epic historical drama directed by the acclaimed Ridley Scott, takes place in the grand setting of ancient Rome. The film follows the life of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a highly respected Roman general who faces a drastic turn of fate when he is betrayed by Commodus, the ambitious and power-hungry son of the Emperor. Reduced to the life of a slave, Maximus rises as a formidable gladiator, engaging in brutal combat for his survival while fuelled by a deep-seated desire for vengeance against Commodus, who has unjustly seized the imperial throne. This captivating story is a powerful display of honor, betrayal, and the quest for redemption, set against the stunning backdrop of the Roman Empire’s grandeur and brutality.
Oliver Reed, in one of his final and most memorable roles, portrays Proximo, a seasoned and wise former gladiator who becomes a mentor to Maximus. Reed’s performance is characterized by a profound charisma and a subtle yet deep emotional resonance, adding a significant layer of depth to the film’s exploration of themes such as freedom, destiny, and the human spirit. His portrayal of Proximo is not only impactful but also imbues the character with a sense of gravitas and complexity. “Gladiator” is widely celebrated for its masterful storytelling, its breathtaking visuals, and its array of memorable performances. The film not only represents a high point in Oliver Reed’s distinguished career but also stands as a monumental achievement in the genre of historical epics.
1. The Devils – Ken Russell (1989)
“The Devils,” directed by the visionary Ken Russell, is a controversial and deeply provocative work set in the time of 17th-century France. The narrative portrays the compelling story of Father Urbain Grandier, a charismatic and distinctly unconventional priest who finds himself ensnared in a perilous witch-hunt orchestrated by Cardinal Richelieu. Amidst an escalating climate of political and religious scheming, Grandier becomes the epicenter of a maelstrom of mass hysteria, with rampant accusations of witchcraft swirling around him. The film explores complex themes such as the abuse of power, the insidious nature of corruption, and the dangerous extremities of fanaticism, all while presenting a narrative that is both deeply disturbing and visually arresting.
Oliver Reed’s portrayal of Father Grandier is nothing short of fascinating, skilfully capturing the complexity, unwavering defiance, and profound humanity of the character in the face of overwhelming oppression. His performance is not only powerful but is also integral to the film’s incisive and critical examination of the mechanisms of religious and political manipulation. “The Devils” is renowned for its audaciously bold visual style, its challenging and thought-provoking content, and its unflinching critique of the corrupting influence of power and authority. Despite the controversy it generated, the film is revered as a masterpiece of British cinema, marking a defining moment in Reed’s career. His performance showcases his extraordinary talent and ability to immerse himself in a challenging and deeply impactful role, making it one of the best Oliver Reed films of all time.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Oliver Reed films of all time
- Dante’s Inferno – Ken Russell (1967)
- Oliver! – Carol Reed (1968)
- Tommy – Ken Russell (1975)
- The Adventures of Baron Munchausen – Terry Gilliam (1988)
- Revolver – Sergio Sollima (1973)
- Women in Love – Ken Russell (1969)
- The Brood – David Cronenberg (1979)
- Lion of the Desert – Moustapha Akkad (1980)
- Gladiator – Ridley Scott (2000)
- The Devils – Ken Russell (1989)
