Leland Orser's Top 10 Movies, Ranked

Leland Orser is a renowned character actor celebrated for his ability to bring depth to a wide range of roles. While he may not always be the main star in his films, his performances always leave a lasting impression on audiences. With a career spanning over three decades, Orser has shown his talent in everything from intense thrillers to thoughtful dramas. In this article, we rank Leland Orser's top 10 movies, highlighting his notable roles and their impact on cinema. Whether you enjoy gripping crime thrillers or moving dramas, this list showcases the best of Leland Orser's impressive career.

10. The Bone Collector (1999)

Director: Phillip Noyce
Genre: Crime Thriller

The Bone Collector - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in The Bone Collector. Lincoln Rhyme was the department’s top homicide detective and leading expert in criminal forensics until an injury left him paralyzed, depressed, and incapable of working. But when a gruesome murder in Manhattan leaves detectives baffled, they call on Rhyme to help solve the mystery. Amelia Donaghy, a rookie cop whose quick thinking preserved a gruesome murder scene, is enlisted by Rhyme to be his on-the-scene forensics expert. With Amelia reluctantly acting as Rhyme’s able-bodied go-between, the pair piece together cryptic clues the killer leaves behind at the scene of the crime, hoping to catch the grisly serial killer.

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The Bone Collector is a gripping crime thriller based on the novel by Jeffery Deaver. The film stars Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie as they hunt a serial killer in New York City. I've always admired how Leland Orser brings depth to his roles, and his portrayal of Richard Thompson, a forensic technician, is no exception. Though not the lead, Orser's character is crucial to the story, showing his expertise and dedication to solving the case. His performance shows his ability to play complex characters with skill. The film's intense plot and great cast make it a standout in the crime thriller genre, earning it the #10 spot on our list.

9. Confidence (2003)

Director: James Foley
Genre: Crime, Thriller

Confidence - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Confidence. What Jake Vig doesn’t know just might get him killed. A sharp and polished grifter, Jake has just swindled thousands of dollars from the unsuspecting Lionel Dolby with the help of his crew. It becomes clear that Lionel wasn’t just any mark, he was an accountant for eccentric crime boss Winston King. Jake and his crew will have to stay one step ahead of both the criminals and the cops to finally settle their debt.

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Confidence is a clever and engaging con artist film directed by James Foley. The movie features a dynamic cast, including Edward Burns, Rachel Weisz, and Dustin Hoffman, who all deliver compelling performances as they navigate a world of deception and high-stakes cons. Leland Orser plays Lionel Dolby, a character whose actions greatly influence the plot.

I particularly enjoy how Orser brings a sense of unpredictability to his role, making Lionel Dolby a character you can't help but watch closely. His performance adds layers to the film's story, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The clever twists and turns, combined with the strong cast, make Confidence a thrilling watch, securing it the #9 spot on our list.

8. Blindspotting (2018)

Director: Carlos López Estrada
Genre: Drama, Comedy

Blindspotting - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Blindspotting. Collin must make it through his final three days of probation for a chance at a new beginning. He and his troublemaking childhood best friend, Miles, work as movers, and when Collin witnesses a police shooting, the two men’s friendship is tested as they grapple with identity and their changed realities in the rapidly-gentrifying neighborhood they grew up in.

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Blindspotting is a powerful film that blends social commentary with drama and comedy. Directed by Carlos López Estrada, the movie stars Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal, who also co-wrote the script. Leland Orser plays Officer Clark, a character whose presence adds tension and complexity to the story.

What stands out to me about Orser's performance is his ability to portray authority figures with depth. His character, Officer Clark, is not just a typical antagonist but a complex individual who challenges the main characters in meaningful ways. The film's exploration of gentrification, race, and identity is both thought-provoking and entertaining, making Blindspotting a deserving entry at #8 on our list.

7. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Director: Steven Spielberg
Genre: War, Drama

Saving Private Ryan - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Saving Private Ryan. As U.S. troops storm the beaches of Normandy, three brothers lie dead on the battlefield, with a fourth trapped behind enemy lines. Ranger captain John Miller and seven men are tasked with penetrating German-held territory and bringing the boy home.

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Saving Private Ryan is an iconic war film directed by Steven Spielberg, known for its intense and realistic portrayal of World War II. The movie features a stellar cast, including Tom Hanks and Matt Damon, and is renowned for its powerful storytelling and emotional depth. Leland Orser plays Lieutenant DeWindt, a character who contributes to the film's authenticity and emotional impact.

I find Orser's performance particularly compelling because he brings a sense of realism to his role, making the character relatable and grounded. His portrayal adds to the film's overall impact, which is both moving and thought-provoking. The film's gripping narrative and exceptional performances make Saving Private Ryan a timeless classic, earning it the #7 spot on our list.

6. Alien Resurrection (1997)

Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Genre: Sci-Fi, Horror

Alien Resurrection is a thrilling sci-fi horror film directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, set in the iconic Alien universe. The movie stars Sigourney Weaver, Winona Ryder, and features Leland Orser as Purvis, a character who adds to the film's tension and suspense.

I appreciate how Orser's performance brings a sense of urgency and realism to his role, making Purvis a memorable part of the story. His ability to show fear and desperation in dangerous situations is impressive. The film's amazing visual effects and action sequences, combined with the strong performances, make Alien Resurrection a standout in the sci-fi horror genre, securing it the #6 spot on our list.

5. Runaway Jury (2003)

Director: Gary Fleder
Genre: Thriller, Drama

Runaway Jury - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Runaway Jury. After a workplace shooting in New Orleans, a trial against the gun manufacturer pits lawyer Wendell Rohr against shady jury consultant Rankin Fitch, who uses illegal means to stack the jury with people sympathetic to the defense. But when juror Nicholas Easter and his girlfriend Marlee reveal their ability to sway the jury into delivering any verdict they want, a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game begins.

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Runaway Jury is a compelling legal thriller directed by Gary Fleder, based on the novel by John Grisham. The film features an impressive cast, including John Cusack, Gene Hackman, and Dustin Hoffman, who deliver powerful performances in a gripping courtroom drama. Leland Orser plays Lamb, a character whose actions significantly impact the story.

I've always been captivated by legal thrillers, and Orser's performance in Runaway Jury is a standout. He brings a sense of intensity and complexity to his role, making Lamb a character you can't help but watch closely. The film's compelling narrative and strong performances make it a must-watch, earning it the #5 spot on our list.

4. Taken (2008)

Director: Pierre Morel
Genre: Action, Thriller

Taken is an action-packed film directed by Pierre Morel, starring Liam Neeson as a former CIA operative on a mission to rescue his daughter from kidnappers. Leland Orser plays Sam Gilroy, a character whose presence adds depth to the narrative.

I've always enjoyed action films that keep you on the edge of your seat, and Taken certainly delivers. Orser's performance as Sam Gilroy is noteworthy for its intensity and authenticity. He brings a sense of urgency and realism to his role, making the character memorable. The film's fast-paced action and compelling storyline make it a thrilling watch, securing it the #4 spot on our list.

3. Se7en (1995)

Director: David Fincher
Genre: Crime, Thriller

Se7en - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Se7en. Two homicide detectives are on a desperate hunt for a serial killer whose crimes are based on the “seven deadly sins” in this dark and haunting film that takes viewers from the tortured remains of one victim to the next. The seasoned Det. Somerset researches each sin in an effort to get inside the killer’s mind, while his novice partner, Mills, scoffs at his efforts to unravel the case.

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Se7en is a dark and chilling crime thriller directed by David Fincher, known for its gripping narrative and outstanding performances by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. Leland Orser delivers a small but impactful role that significantly contributes to the film's tense atmosphere.

I find Se7en to be one of those films that stays with you long after the credits roll. Orser's performance, though brief, is often cited as one of the best performances by an actor in a single movie scene. He brings an intensity and authenticity to his role that adds depth to the film's chilling narrative. The film's dark themes and powerful storytelling make it a standout in the crime thriller genre, earning it the #3 spot on our list.

2. The Guest (2014)

Director: Adam Wingard
Genre: Thriller, Action

The Guest - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in The Guest. A soldier introduces himself to the Peterson family, claiming to be a friend of their son who died in action. After the young man is welcomed into their home, a series of accidental deaths seem to be connected to his presence.

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The Guest is a thrilling film directed by Adam Wingard, known for its unique blend of suspense and dark humour. The movie stars Dan Stevens as a mysterious soldier who visits the family of a fallen comrade. Leland Orser plays Potter, a character whose interactions with the main character add tension and intrigue to the story.

I particularly enjoy how The Guest keeps you guessing until the very end. Orser's performance as Potter is compelling, bringing a sense of authority and suspicion to his role. His ability to convey complex emotions in high-pressure situations is impressive. The film's clever plot twists and strong performances make it a standout in the thriller genre, securing it the #2 spot on our list.

1. Faults (2014)

Director: Riley Stearns
Genre: Drama, Thriller

Faults - Leland Orser

Leland Orser in Faults. Claire is under the grip of a mysterious new cult called Faults. Desperate to be reunited with their daughter, Claire’s parents recruit one of the world’s foremost experts on mind control, Ansel Roth.

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Faults is a captivating psychological drama directed by Riley Stearns, known for its compelling storytelling and excellent character development. Leland Orser takes the lead as Ansel Roth, a man grappling with personal and professional crises, and he absolutely nails the role.

I find Faults to be a deeply engaging film that explores complex themes with skill and depth. Orser's portrayal of Ansel Roth is nothing short of exceptional, showcasing his ability to convey a range of emotions and internal struggles. His performance is a testament to his skill as a character actor, making Faults a must-watch and securing it the #1 spot on our list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Leland Orser?

A: Leland Orser is a renowned character actor known for his versatile performances in a variety of genres. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, often playing impactful supporting roles that leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Q: What are some of Leland Orser's most notable roles?

A: Leland Orser has delivered memorable performances in films like Se7en, Taken, and Saving Private Ryan. He is also known for his role in the TV series ER and has made appearances in popular shows like Ray Donovan.

Q: Which film features Leland Orser in a leading role?

A: Leland Orser takes the lead in the psychological drama Faults, where he plays Ansel Roth, a character grappling with personal and professional crises. His performance in this film is widely praised.

Q: What genres has Leland Orser worked in?

A: Leland Orser has worked in a wide range of genres, including crime thrillers, sci-fi horror, war dramas, and psychological dramas. His versatility as an actor allows him to bring depth and authenticity to various types of roles.

Q: How does Leland Orser contribute to the films he is in?

A: Even when not in leading roles, Leland Orser's performances are impactful and add depth to the narrative. His ability to portray complex characters with skill makes him a valuable addition to any film's cast.