Andrew Garfield is an entertainer who has made a name for himself in film and television, particularly in the superhero genre. Garfield is known for his powerful performances in films such as The Social Network, The Amazing Spider-Man, and Hacksaw Ridge, in addition to his acclaimed stage work. While his talent is acclaimed by critics and fans all over the world, his amazing performances in certain films stand out more than others. Here is a look at some of the best films in which Andrew Garfield starred.
The Social Network (2010)
Widely regarded as one of the best films of the 21st Century, The Social Network, written by Aaron Sorkin and directed by David Fincher, was one of the most acclaimed films of 2010. Garfield played the role of Eduardo Saverin, the billionaire CFO of Facebook, who faces emotional turmoil after his fallout with Mark Zuckerberg, played by Jesse Eisenberg. Garfield’s performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination and a BAFTA nomination.
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
Garfield portrayed the iconic Marvel superhero Peter Parker in 2012’s The Amazing Spider-Man, directed and produced by Marc Webb. Garfield follows up on the success of Tobey Maguire in the original Spider-Man films, as Garfield puts his own twist on the character. He does this by displaying an endearing bond between him and Gwen Stacy, played by Emma Stone. This film earned Garfield worldwide recognition from critics and fans alike.
Hacksaw Ridge (2016)
Garfield received his only Academy Award nomination for his work in Mel Gibson’s acclaimed Hacksaw Ridge, a World War II drama about conscientious objector Desmond Doss. Garfield portrays Doss in a quiet but powerful way, making viewers feel a deep connection to the character. His portrayal of Doss also earned Garfield a Bafta nomination and a Golden Globe nomination.
99 Homes (2014)
Garfield signs onto another critically acclaimed film in Ramin Bahrani’s 99 Homes, an emotionally turbulent drama about the housing market crash of 2008 in the United States. Garfield portrays Dennis Nash, a man struggling to get back on his feet after being evicted from his home. The character of Nash is especially memorable as Garfield’s masterful portrayal makes it easy for viewers to empathize with Nash and root for him to succeed in spite of the odds against him.
Breathe (2017)
In actor and director Andy Serkis’s directorial debut, Garfield stars as Robin Cavendish, a real-life man who was stricken with polio in the 1950s. Cavendish must learn to cope with disability and live life to the fullest with the help of his adoring and loyal wife, played by Claire Foy. Garfield once again gets beneath the surface of the material to create an emotional portrait that resonates with audiences.
Never Let Me Go (2010)
Another one of Garfield’s hidden gems, Never Let Me Go is a dreamlike adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s acclaimed novel. Garfield portrays Tommy, a mysterious figure exploring a boarding school who, along with his childhood friends Kathy and Ruth, holds a special place in everyone’s hearts. His subtle work in this film perfectly illustrates the emotional complexity of the material.
The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus (2009)
Garfield appears in the late Heath Ledger’s final performance, the Terry Gilliam-helmed The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus. Here, Garfield plays Anton, a one-eyed man whose journey opens up a variety of different worlds of imagination. His skills as a storyteller are displayed here as he crafts a captivating story in this difficult-to-comprehend movie.
Andrew Garfield is one of the most talented actors working today, and his performances in some of the best films of the 21st century are a testament to that. Although there are many more on which to reflect upon, his work in The Social Network, The Amazing Spider-Man, Hacksaw Ridge, 99 Homes, Breathe, Never Let Me Go, and The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus are just a few of the top films that prove that Garfield is an actor of immense talent and depth.
