If you consider yourself a fan of actor James Woods, then you are in for a real treat. This week, we are taking a look back at some of his best movies from the good old 1980s. Woods had a busy decade, appearing in several high-profile films that will live forever.
Some of his most notable work from that period includes roles in “Salvador,” and “Once Upon a Time in America” just to name a couple of epic roles. While it’s tough to choose just a few of Woods’ best movies from the 1980s, we have narrowed it down to five that best encompass Woods’ prowess on the silver screen!
The Best 80s James Woods Movies
It’s no secret that James Woods is one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actors. His career is full of riveting roles, and any fan of film will appreciate his body of work. And many of those great roles come from movies from the 1980s.
So what were James Woods best movies from the time? Here are our picks for the best 80s James Woods movies:
1. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
This classic gangster movie is one of Woods’ earliest hits from the 1980s. He plays Maximilian “Max” Bercovicz, a Jewish immigrant who becomes a powerful figure in the New York underworld. The film follows the rise and fall of several different characters over several decades, and Woods gives an impressive performance as the ambitious but flawed Max.
2. Cat’s Eye (1985)
This Stephen King classic 1980s flick is a interesting tale about a stray cat that is linked to three intriguing storylines. James Woods plays Dick Morrison who is a man that is trying to quit smoking. He learns that he will suffer a terrible fate if he tries to cheat during the program, and the film really is unique in the way that the story is told. If you’re a James Woods fan, you’ll definitely appreciate his acting in this film.
3. Salvador (1986)
This political thriller follows a journalist and a photographer in 1980s El Salvador as they take on the violent military dictatorship that controls the nation. Woods plays Richard Boyle, an experienced war correspondent who is drawn into covering the events in El Salvador. The film was directed by Oliver Stone and holds up well to this day – it’s no wonder that it does because Woods gives such an electric performance in it.
4. Against All Odds (1984)
This movie may be a forgotten gem from the 1980s. Despite its somewhat low profile, Against All Odds is still one of Woods’ most impressive works in terms of craftsmanship and performance.
He plays Jeff Travers, a professional football player who has to reassess his life after he catches his girlfriend cheating on him. The film is a gritty drama that also stars Rachel Ward and Jeff Bridges.
5. Cop (1988)
The last flick on our list is Woods’ foray into the world of hard-boiled cop thrillers. In this film, he plays Jack Doyle, a tough New York City detective who is trying to stop the killings of several high-profile figures. The cast also includes Lesley Ann Warren and Charles Durning in supporting roles.
No matter how you slice it, James Woods had a hell of a streak in the 1980s. While he’s continued to be a successful actor in the years since then, it’s hard to deny that his best work was done during that era.
If you’re looking for some good old-fashioned 80s action, then these are the James Woods movies for you! What were the best James Woods movies of the 1980s? Let us know!
