Leonardo DiCaprio Movies In Order: A Look At An Amazing Career

Are you curious about the full list of Leonardo DiCaprio movies in order? So many people are, and for good reason. His film choices, you know, really stand out, shaping a career that is pretty much legendary in Hollywood. He has this amazing way of bringing characters to life, making us feel every bit of their joy, sorrow, and struggle. It is commonplace for folks to want to see how his acting journey has unfolded over the years, from those first roles to his big, celebrated performances.

There's a real charm, actually, in going through his films chronologically. You get to see his growth, how his style changed, and the kinds of stories he chose to tell. It's like watching a master painter refine his craft, adding new shades and textures with each piece. This list, you see, helps us appreciate the careful steps he took to become one of the most respected actors working today.

This article will walk you through every one of Leonardo DiCaprio's movie appearances, from his earliest work right up to his most recent projects. We'll look at the parts he played and the impact these films had. You'll get a good sense of his incredible range, which is pretty vast, and why he remains such a compelling figure on screen, too it's almost a given.

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Table of Contents

• Leonardo DiCaprio: A Brief Look at the Person
  • Personal Details & Bio Data
• Early Acting Days: Finding His Footing
• Becoming a Star: The Nineties Breakthrough
• Partnering with a Master: The Scorsese Years
• Oscar Success and Recent Triumphs
• Frequently Asked Questions About Leonardo DiCaprio's Movies

Leonardo DiCaprio: A Brief Look at the Person

Leonardo Wilhelm DiCaprio, a name that just about everyone recognizes, has built a career that is truly remarkable. Born in Los Angeles, California, he started acting at a very young age, showing a clear talent for performance early on. His ability to pick interesting projects and deliver strong performances has kept him at the top of his game for decades. He's not just an actor, you know; he's also a big supporter of environmental causes, using his fame to help the planet, which is pretty cool.

Personal Details & Bio Data

Early Acting Days: Finding His Footing

Before he was a global icon, Leonardo DiCaprio, you know, took on various roles, building his experience. These early parts, while sometimes small, really helped shape him into the actor we know today. It's fascinating to see where it all began, how he moved from television appearances to his very first film roles. He was, in a way, learning the ropes, picking up skills that would serve him well for years to come.

Critters 3 (1991)

This creature feature, a direct-to-video release, marks Leonardo DiCaprio's first big-screen appearance. He played Josh, a boy living in an apartment building that gets attacked by the furry, hungry alien creatures known as Critters. It's a bit of a quirky start for someone who would later star in grand dramas, but everyone starts somewhere, right?

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Poison Ivy (1992)

In this thriller, Leonardo DiCaprio had a supporting role as Guy, the boyfriend of the main character, Sylvie. It was a small part, yet it showed him stepping into more complex, dramatic material. The film itself was a pretty dark tale about obsession and manipulation, giving him a chance to act alongside more established names.

This Boy's Life (1993)

This film was a truly significant moment for Leonardo DiCaprio. He played Tobias "Toby" Wolff, a troubled teenager in the 1950s, opposite Robert De Niro. His performance here, you see, earned him widespread praise for its raw intensity and emotional depth. Many critics pointed out his natural talent, and it was clear he was someone to watch. It's actually a very powerful story about a boy trying to find his way.

What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)

Just after "This Boy's Life," Leonardo DiCaprio delivered another incredible performance as Arnie Grape, the mentally impaired younger brother of Gilbert (played by Johnny Depp). His portrayal was so convincing and heartfelt that it earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This role, in some respects, really solidified his place as a serious dramatic actor at a very young age. It showed, quite clearly, his ability to fully inhabit a challenging character.

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

Leonardo DiCaprio stepped into the Western genre with this film, playing "The Kid," a quick-drawing gunslinger. He shared the screen with Sharon Stone and Gene Hackman. While the movie itself got mixed reviews, his energetic performance was noted. It was, you know, a different kind of role for him, showing his willingness to experiment with various types of stories.

The Basketball Diaries (1995)

Here, Leonardo DiCaprio took on the role of Jim Carroll, a talented high school basketball player who falls into drug addiction. This film was a gritty and intense look at a young man's struggle. His performance was praised for its honesty and vulnerability, further proving his range and ability to handle difficult subjects. It was, arguably, a very demanding part for him.

Total Eclipse (1995)

In this historical drama, Leonardo DiCaprio played the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, exploring his intense and scandalous relationship with fellow poet Paul Verlaine. It was a bold choice for him, delving into a complex, passionate character. This role, actually, highlighted his bravery in taking on parts that pushed boundaries, even at that point in his career.

Becoming a Star: The Nineties Breakthrough

The mid to late 1990s saw Leonardo DiCaprio's career really take off, culminating in a film that made him a household name around the globe. These years were, you know, crucial in his journey from respected young actor to a bona fide movie star. He picked projects that resonated with audiences, and his charm, combined with his acting chops, was undeniable.

Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Baz Luhrmann's modern retelling of Shakespeare's classic tragedy saw Leonardo DiCaprio as Romeo Montague, opposite Claire Danes' Juliet. This vibrant and stylized film introduced Shakespeare to a new generation, and DiCaprio's passionate performance made him a heartthrob for many. It was, truly, a visually stunning movie that showcased his romantic leading man qualities.

Marvin's Room (1996)

In this family drama, Leonardo DiCaprio played Hank, a troubled teenager who has been institutionalized after setting fire to his family's house. He starred alongside Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton. His performance was a sensitive portrayal of a young man struggling with mental health and family ties. It was, in some respects, a quieter, more reflective role for him.

Titanic (1997)

This epic romance, directed by James Cameron, was the film that launched Leonardo DiCaprio into superstardom. As Jack Dawson, a charming artist who falls in love with the aristocratic Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet) aboard the ill-fated ship, he captured the hearts of millions. "Titanic" became the highest-grossing film of its time, and his face, you know, was suddenly everywhere. It was, quite simply, a global phenomenon that changed his career forever.

The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)

Following "Titanic," Leonardo DiCaprio took on a dual role in this historical adventure, playing both King Louis XIV and his imprisoned twin brother, Philippe. While the film received mixed reviews, his performance as two distinct characters showed his versatility. It was, perhaps, a way for him to stretch his acting muscles after such a massive romantic lead role.

Partnering with a Master: The Scorsese Years

The 2000s marked the beginning of a highly fruitful collaboration between Leonardo DiCaprio and legendary director Martin Scorsese. This partnership, you know, redefined his career, allowing him to explore complex characters in gritty, often dark, stories. These films are, very much, cornerstones of his filmography, showcasing his ability to lead intense, character-driven narratives.

The Beach (2000)

After the massive success of "Titanic," Leonardo DiCaprio starred in this adventure drama about a young American tourist seeking a legendary, isolated island paradise in Thailand. While the film had mixed critical reception, it showed his appeal as a leading man in a more adventurous, independent-spirited story. It was, apparently, a very different kind of role for him at that time.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, this biographical crime film saw Leonardo DiCaprio play Frank Abagnale Jr., a real-life con artist who successfully posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer before his 19th birthday. His performance was widely praised for its charm, wit, and underlying vulnerability. It was, really, a fantastic showcase for his range, especially in a more lighthearted yet clever role.

Gangs of New York (2002)

This was Leonardo DiCaprio's first collaboration with Martin Scorsese. He played Amsterdam Vallon, a young Irish-American immigrant seeking revenge on the gang leader who killed his father. The film was a sprawling historical epic set in the mid-19th century. His role here was intense and gritty, setting the tone for their future projects. It was, you know, a very ambitious film.

The Aviator (2004)

Leonardo DiCaprio reunited with Martin Scorsese to portray the eccentric billionaire and aviation pioneer Howard Hughes. His performance, which captured Hughes's brilliance, ambition, and eventual descent into obsessive-compulsive disorder, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. This film, quite honestly, was a massive undertaking for him, showing his dedication to portraying complex historical figures.

The Departed (2006)

Another powerful collaboration with Martin Scorsese, this crime thriller saw Leonardo DiCaprio as Billy Costigan, an undercover state trooper infiltrating an Irish mob in Boston. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture. His performance was intense and gripping, truly capturing the stress of living a double life. It was, basically, a very tense and exciting movie.

Blood Diamond (2006)

In this political thriller, Leonardo DiCaprio played Danny Archer, a Rhodesian mercenary involved in the illegal diamond trade during the Sierra Leone Civil War. His gritty performance earned him another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film, you know, shed light on a very serious global issue, and his acting really brought the story home.

Body of Lies (2008)

Leonardo DiCaprio starred as Roger Ferris, a CIA operative tracking a terrorist leader, in this spy thriller directed by Ridley Scott. The film explored themes of trust, deception, and the moral ambiguities of espionage. It was, in some ways, a more traditional action role for him, but he still brought depth to the character.

Revolutionary Road (2008)

This drama reunited Leonardo DiCaprio with his "Titanic" co-star Kate Winslet, playing a young couple struggling with their marriage and suburban life in the 1950s. Directed by Sam Mendes, the film was a poignant and often heartbreaking look at unfulfilled dreams. Their chemistry, you know, was still very much there, making for a truly powerful viewing experience.

Shutter Island (2010)

Leonardo DiCaprio's fourth collaboration with Martin Scorsese was this psychological thriller, where he played U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels investigating the disappearance of a patient from a remote asylum. The film was a twisting, atmospheric mystery that kept audiences guessing. His performance, honestly, was a masterclass in portraying a man on the edge of his sanity.

Inception (2010)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, this mind-bending science fiction thriller saw Leonardo DiCaprio as Dom Cobb, a skilled thief who steals information by entering people's dreams. The film was a huge critical and commercial success, celebrated for its complex plot and stunning visuals. It was, arguably, one of his most iconic roles, showcasing his ability to lead a blockbuster that also made you think.

J. Edgar (2011)

Leonardo DiCaprio took on the role of J. Edgar Hoover, the controversial first director of the FBI, in this biographical drama directed by Clint Eastwood. He portrayed Hoover across several decades, showing his rise to power and his complex personal life. It was, quite a transformation for him, demonstrating his commitment to historical accuracy.

Django Unchained (2012)

In Quentin Tarantino's Western, Leonardo DiCaprio played Calvin Candie, a charming yet brutal plantation owner. This was his first villainous role, and he relished it, delivering a truly memorable and chilling performance. It was, basically, a very different side of him that audiences hadn't seen much before, and he absolutely nailed it.

The Great Gatsby (2013)

Leonardo DiCaprio reunited with director Baz Luhrmann for this visually opulent adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel. He played Jay Gatsby, the mysterious millionaire obsessed with his past love. His portrayal captured both the grandeur and the underlying sadness of the character. The film was, you know, a very stylish and grand production.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

This wild biographical black comedy marked Leonardo DiCaprio's fifth collaboration with Martin Scorsese. He starred as Jordan Belfort, a real-life stockbroker who engaged in widespread corruption and fraud. His energetic, no-holds-barred performance earned him another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. It was, very much, a tour de force, showing his incredible comedic timing alongside his dramatic prowess.

Oscar Success and Recent Triumphs

After years of nominations, Leonardo DiCaprio finally achieved his long-awaited Academy Award win, a moment that was celebrated by fans and critics alike. His recent projects continue to show his dedication to compelling storytelling and challenging roles. He's still picking fascinating projects, which is great, and his commitment to quality remains really strong.

The Revenant (2015)

This grueling survival drama, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, saw Leonardo DiCaprio as Hugh Glass, a frontiersman left for dead after a bear attack. His physically demanding and intense performance, you know, finally earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. It was a role that required immense dedication, and the win was, honestly, a moment many had waited for.

Before the Flood (2016)

While not a traditional feature film, this documentary saw Leonardo DiCaprio serving as a narrator and producer, traveling the world to witness the effects of climate change. It was a passion project for him, highlighting his deep commitment to environmental advocacy. This film, in a way, showed a different side of his work, focusing on a cause he cares about very much.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

Leonardo DiCaprio teamed up with Quentin Tarantino again for this comedic drama set in 1969 Los Angeles. He played Rick Dalton, a fading television actor, alongside Brad Pitt as his stunt double. His performance was acclaimed for its blend of humor and pathos, earning him another Academy Award nomination. It was, truly, a fantastic film that captured a specific era.

Don't Look Up (2021)

In this satirical black comedy, Leonardo DiCaprio played Dr. Randall Mindy, an astronomer trying to warn humanity about an approaching comet that will destroy Earth. The film, which also starred Jennifer Lawrence, was a sharp commentary on societal indifference and political ineptitude. His performance was, basically, a great mix of humor and desperation, which was really effective.

Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

Leonardo DiCaprio's latest collaboration with Martin Scorsese is this epic Western crime drama. He plays Ernest Burkhart, a man involved in the murders of Osage Nation members in the 1920s. The film, based on a true story, explores a dark chapter in American history. His performance is, very much, another powerful one, showcasing his continued dedication to complex characters and important stories. It's a significant work, you know, and a testament to his enduring partnership with Scorsese.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leonardo DiCaprio's Movies

What is Leonardo DiCaprio's first movie?

Leonardo DiCaprio's first movie appearance was in "Critters 3," which came out in 1991. It was a direct-to-video creature feature, a pretty humble beginning for such a big star, you know.

What is Leonardo DiCaprio's highest-grossing movie?

His highest-grossing movie by a very wide margin is "Titanic" (1997). That film, you see, earned over $2.2 billion worldwide and was a global sensation. It really put him on the map in a huge way.

How many movies has Leonardo DiCaprio been in?

As of late 2023, Leonardo DiCaprio has appeared in over 30 feature films. This list, you know, covers his acting roles, not including his work as a producer on other projects. He's been quite busy, actually, picking very carefully what he does.

To learn more about Hollywood's biggest stars, check out our site. You can also find out more about the history of cinema and its impact. For more details on Leonardo DiCaprio's filmography and awards, you might want to visit his IMDb page, which is a great resource.