- 1
Paul Giamatti delivers an exceptional performance in the 2004 comedy-drama film, Sideways. Directed by Alexander Payne, this critically-praised masterpiece centers around Giamatti's character, a struggling writer named Miles Raymond, who embarks on a wine-tasting road trip with his friend Jack (played by Thomas Haden Church). As they traverse the California vineyards, the duo encounters various situations that provoke introspection and growth. Giamatti's nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with personal and professional failures elevates the film into a captivating exploration of midlife crises and self-discovery.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Alexander Payne
In Stephen Belber’s upcoming dramedy The Holdovers—slated for release in 2022—Paul Giamatti stars as Mr. Smithson—an eccentric boarding school teacher on a mission to convince fellow faculty members to embrace progressive change amidst personal turmoil. Based on early buzz surrounding this project, it is poised to become yet another showcase for Giamatti's impressive range as an actor.
- Released: 2023
- Directed by: Alexander Payne
- 3
Steven Spielberg's 1998 war epic Saving Private Ryan offers viewers an intense look at the horrors of WWII while showcasing Paul Giamatti's acting prowess. Playing Sergeant William Hill, he joins an ensemble cast led by Tom Hanks as they embark on a mission to save paratrooper James Ryan (Matt Damon) amid the chaos of D-Day aftermath. Though his role is relatively minor among heavyweights like Hanks and Damon, Giamatti still manages to make his presence felt with an authentic portrayal of courage under fire.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- 4
In 2006, Paul Giamatti captivated audiences as he starred alongside Edward Norton in The Illusionist, a romantic mystery thriller set in late 19th-century Vienna. Directed by Neil Burger and based on Steven Millhauser's short story Eisenheim the Illusionist, Giamatti plays Chief Inspector Uhl, tasked with investigating Eisenheim (Norton), a talented magician whose illusions begin to defy explanation. As Uhl delves deeper into Eisenheim's world, he confronts questions about logic, love, and betrayal—all brought to life through Giamatti's masterful performance.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Neil Burger
- 5
In this gripping crime drama directed by Mike Newell, Paul Giamatti steps into the world of mafia intrigue as FBI technician Jerry Cardozo. Donnie Brasco (1997) stars Johnny Depp and Al Pacino in a true-story adaptation of an undercover operation that exposes deep-seated mob corruption. Giamatti's adept characterization enhances the film's gritty atmosphere, contributing to its status as a revered piece of cinematic history.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Mike Newell
- 6
Ron Howard's 2005 biographical sports drama, Cinderella Man, is set during the Great Depression and follows the captivating journey of boxer James J. Braddock (Russell Crowe). In this inspiring tale of determination and resilience, Paul Giamatti plays Joe Gould, Braddock's devoted manager and friend. Giamatti's exceptional performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor while bolstering the film's emotional resonance.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Ron Howard
- 7
Paul Giamatti delivers another standout performance in Tom McCarthy's 2011 comedy-drama film Win Win. He stars as Mike Flaherty—a struggling lawyer moonlighting as a high school wrestling coach who takes in a troubled teenage athlete Kyle (Alex Shaffer). Navigating both moral dilemmas and personal issues in his own life, Giamatti expertly portrays a man striving for balance amidst chaos in this emotionally engaging story about determination and redemption.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Tom McCarthy
- 8
Private Parts (1997) is a comedic biographical drama that chronicles the life and career of radio personality Howard Stern (played by himself). Paul Giamatti shines as Kenny "Pig Vomit" Rushton—an obnoxious program director who becomes Stern's primary antagonist throughout his rise to fame. Under Betty Thomas' direction, Giamatti perfectly captures the character’s arrogant nature, making him impossible to forget in this entertaining film.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Betty Thomas
- 9
Paul Giamatti's performance as underground comic book writer Harvey Pekar in the 2003 biographical dramedy American Splendor earned him widespread acclaim. Directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, the film seamlessly blends fact and fiction while exploring Pekar's life through his autobiographical comics and Giamatti’s compelling characterization. It stands as a testament to Giamatti's versatility as an actor capable of inhabiting uniquely complex roles.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Shari Springer Berman, Robert Pulcini
- 10
In F. Gary Gray's 1998 action thriller The Negotiator, Paul Giamatti stars as Rudy Timmons—a reclusive computer whiz who becomes embroiled in a high-stakes hostage crisis led by Samuel L. Jackson's Danny Roman. Sharing the screen with powerhouses like Jackson and Kevin Spacey, Giamatti proves he can hold his own amidst an intense backdrop rife with suspenseful twists and turns.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: F. Gary Gray
- 11
In the critically acclaimed 2010 adaptation of Mordecai Richler's novel Barney's Version, Paul Giamatti delivers a tour de force performance as Barney Panofsky—a man whose life unfolds through various relationships and personal missteps over several decades. Directed by Richard J. Lewis, this poignant character study showcases Giamatti at the height of his acting prowess as he brings depth and nuance to one of literature’s most complex protagonists.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Richard J. Lewis
- 12
In Peter Weir’s groundbreaking 1998 sci-fi drama The Truman Show, Paul Giamatti takes on the role of Control Room Director Simeon, working alongside Ed Harris' Christof to manipulate Jim Carrey's Truman Burbank in a fabricated reality television show. Though his screen time is limited, Giamatti’s distinctive portrayal leaves a lasting impression in this thought-provoking critique of media control and personal freedom.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Peter Weir
- 13
Amidst a star-studded cast featuring Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz, Paul Giamatti makes a memorable appearance in P.J. Hogan's romantic comedy My Best Friend's Wedding (1997). As Richard—bellboy-turned-confidante—he offers emotional support to Roberts' Julianne while she struggles with her feelings for her best friend who is about to be married. Even in this small role, Giamatti leaves an indelible impression through his genuine display of empathy.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: P.J. Hogan
- 14
Paul Giamatti takes center stage in Bruce Paltrow's 2000 musical dramedy Duets, starring alongside Gwyneth Paltrow and Huey Lewis as frustrated salesman Todd Woods. Searching for meaning in his mundane life, Todd embarks on a cross-country road trip culminating in a karaoke competition that reinvigorates his passion for living. Giamatti's heartfelt performance imbues the film with an emotional resonance that strikes a chord with viewers.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Bruce Paltrow
- 15
The 1999 biopic Man on the Moon offers audiences an intriguing look into the life of late comedian Andy Kaufman (Jim Carrey). Directed by Milos Forman, Paul Giamatti takes on the role of Bob Zmuda, Kaufman's longtime collaborator and friend. As he navigates the enigmatic world of performance art alongside Carrey’s captivating portrayal of Kaufman, Giamatti embodies Zmuda with a sense of loyalty and admiration that adds depth to this fascinating story.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Milos Forman
- 16
In Don Coscarelli's unique 2002 horror-comedy Bubba Ho-Tep, Paul Giamatti stars as Elvis Presley (Bruce Campbell)’s longtime manager Colonel Tom Parker. Through a series of flashbacks, Giamatti immerses himself into the role, adding intrigue and depth to this offbeat tale about an aging King of Rock ‘n’ Roll battling an ancient Egyptian mummy alongside John F. Kennedy impersonator Jack (Ossie Davis).
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Don Coscarelli
- 17
Directed by John Lee Hancock, Saving Mr. Banks (2013) delves into the making of Disney’s classic Mary Poppins film—particularly highlighting author P.L. Travers’ (Emma Thompson) complex relationship with Walt Disney (Tom Hanks). As Ralph—Travers’ chauffeur—Paul Giamatti delivers a heartwarming portrayal that elevates the narrative through its exploration of friendship and artistic compromise.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: John Lee Hancock
- 18
In 2002’s family comedy Big Fat Liar, Paul Giamatti demonstrates his versatility as an actor by taking on the role of unscrupulous Hollywood producer Marty Wolf. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film follows a young boy (Frankie Muniz) seeking revenge on Wolf for stealing his story idea. With a larger-than-life performance full of comedic flair, Giamatti showcases his ability to inhabit a wide array of characters across various genres.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Shawn Levy
- 19
Paul Giamatti stars as Cleveland Heep—a troubled apartment building superintendent—in M. Night Shyamalan's 2006 fantasy thriller Lady in the Water. When he discovers a mysterious woman named Story (Bryce Dallas Howard) living in his complex’s pool, Heep becomes entwined in an otherworldly battle between good and evil. Giamatti brings vulnerability and determination to his role, anchoring the film amidst its supernatural elements.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: M. Night Shyamalan
The 2013 animated family film Turbo features Paul Giamatti lending his vocal talents to the character Chet—a cautious snail opposite Ryan Reynolds' speed-obsessed title character. As they embark on an adventure-filled journey toward racing glory, Giamatti proves he can captivate younger audiences while still maintaining his distinctive charm.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: David Soren
- 21
Injecting humor into an adrenaline-fueled plot filled with nonstop action sequences, Paul Giamatti stars as ruthless villain Hertz in Michael Davis' 2007 film Shoot 'Em Up. As he relentlessly pursues Clive Owen's skilled gunman throughout the movie, Giamatti creates a menacing yet memorable antagonist that adds depth to the overall experience.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Michael Davis
- 22
Paul Giamatti joins Ben Affleck and Uma Thurman in John Woo’s action-packed sci-fi thriller Paycheck (2003). He plays Shorty—an inventor who assists Affleck's Michael Jennings as he unravels a government conspiracy involving erased memories and futuristic technology. In this high-stakes environment, Giamatti showcases his ability to balance lighthearted humor with dramatic intensity.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: John Woo
- 23
As Richard Garsik—a conniving corporate executive—in Tony Gilroy’s engaging 2009 espionage thriller Duplicity, Paul Giamatti shares the screen with Clive Owen and Julia Roberts while navigating a world of high-stakes double-crossing and deception. His performance is both charismatic and cutthroat, demonstrating once again his ability to excel in diverse roles.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Tony Gilroy
- 24
Paul Giamatti makes his presence known as the lovable taxi driver Scott in Sydney Pollack’s 1995 romantic comedy-drama Sabrina. Sharing the screen with Hollywood heavyweights like Harrison Ford and Julia Ormond, Giamatti’s natural charm enhances this modern retelling of a classic Cinderella story.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Sydney Pollack
- 25
In George Clooney’s political drama The Ides of March (2011), Paul Giamatti expertly portrays campaign manager Tom Duffy—whose Machiavellian tactics threaten to derail Ryan Gosling's Stephen Myers' career aspirations during a heated presidential race. Complemented by an all-star cast including Philip Seymour Hoffman and Evan Rachel Wood, Giamatti’s portrayal brings depth to the complex world of political intrigue.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: George Clooney
- 26
Paul Giamatti has a small yet memorable role in Cameron Crowe's 1992 romantic comedy-drama Singles—a film that chronicles the interconnected lives of various young adults living in Seattle during the grunge era. As Kissing Man, Giamatti shares an intimate moment with Cynthia Stevenson's Woman on Street Corner in a scene that exemplifies his ability to make even minor roles stand out.
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Cameron Crowe
- 27
In Sophie Barthes' thought-provoking 2009 sci-fi drama Cold Souls, Paul Giamatti plays a version of himself—a soul-weary actor who undergoes a procedure to remove his soul, only to find himself searching for it when things go awry. His introspective performance raises existential questions while demonstrating his ability to explore the depths of human emotion.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Sophie Barthes
- 28
In Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini's 2007 dramedy The Nanny Diaries, Paul Giamatti stars as Mr. X—an affluent New Yorker whose marital problems lead to tension in his household. As the patriarch of a dysfunctional family, Giamatti deftly balances humor and drama while grappling with his character’s emotional turmoil.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Shari Springer Berman, Robert Pulcini
- 29
In James Foley’s slick crime thriller Confidence (2003), Paul Giamatti plays Gordo—a seasoned conman involved in a high-stakes heist led by Edward Burns’ Jake Vig. Amidst clever deceptions and surprising twists, Giamatti’s portrayal adds another layer of depth to this stylish ensemble piece.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: James Foley
- 30
Paul Giamatti dons Santa’s suit for David Dobkin's 2007 holiday comedy Fred Claus, where he plays the legendary gift-giver alongside Vince Vaughn as his ne'er-do-well brother Fred. Balancing warmth and wit throughout the film, Giamatti elevates this festive tale to a delightful seasonal treat for audiences of all ages.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: David Dobkin
- 31
As Tim the Gate Guard in Chris Wedge and Carlos Saldanha's 2005 animated adventure Robots, Paul Giamatti lends his distinctive voice to this family-friendly story about an ambitious inventor named Rodney Copperbottom (Ewan McGregor) who sets out to save Robot City from corporate greed and corruption.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Carlos Saldanha, Chris Wedge
- 32
As Ben Bernanke—Chairman of the Federal Reserve—in Curtis Hanson's star-studded 2011 HBO drama Too Big to Fail, Paul Giamatti brings gravitas and intelligence to his portrayal while navigating high-stakes negotiations during the 2008 financial crisis that rocked Wall Street.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Curtis Hanson
- 33
In Adam Shankman’s 2012 musical comedy Rock of Ages, Paul Giamatti plays the conniving music manager Paul Gill. As he navigates the 1980s rock scene with an all-star cast including Tom Cruise and Alec Baldwin, Giamatti showcases his singing chops and penchant for playing despicable characters.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Adam Shankman
- 34
The Goon
Paul Giamatti, Clancy BrownIn Michael Dowse's 2011 sports comedy The Goon, Paul Giamatti lends his vocal talents as Roy—the sadistic brother of Liev Schreiber's veteran enforcer Ross Rhea in this animated adaptation about a bouncer-turned-hockey player (Seann William Scott) who discovers his true calling on the ice.
- Released: 2013
- 35
Paul Giamatti delivers another noteworthy performance in Michael Hoffman's 2009 historical drama The Last Station—which depicts Russian author Leo Tolstoy (Christopher Plummer) during his final days. As Vladimir Chertkov—Tolstoy's closest advisor—Giamatti brings to life a complex character torn between loyalty and ambition.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Michael Hoffman
- 36
Tim Burton’s 2001 reimagining of Planet of the Apes features Paul Giamatti as Limbo—an opportunistic orangutan who profits from human enslavement in a world where apes rule over mankind. Sharing the screen with Mark Wahlberg and Helena Bonham Carter, Giamatti’s character adds an element of dark humor to this visually stunning adventure.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Tim Burton
- 37
Paul Giamatti adds comedic flair to Raja Gosnell's 2000 action-comedy Big Momma's House, where he plays John—an FBI agent tasked with assisting Martin Lawrence's Malcolm Turner in his mission to capture an escaped convict. As the bumbling sidekick, Giamatti’s character contributes levity amidst the film’s uproarious hijinks.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Raja Gosnell
- 38
In Woody Allen’s darkly humorous tale Deconstructing Harry (1997), Paul Giamatti stars as Professor Abbott—whose life is turned upside down when he discovers he has become a character in a novel written by his former friend Harry Block (Allen). This captivating storyline allows Giamatti to showcase his unique blend of wit, vulnerability, and charm.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Woody Allen
- 39
Playing Kingsley—a shady businessman with ulterior motives—in Todd Phillips' blockbuster sequel The Hangover Part II (2011), Paul Giamatti showcases his ability to adapt to different genres while leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Todd Phillips
- 40Private Life is a 2018 American drama film directed by Tamara Jenkins. An author (Kathryn Hahn) is undergoing multiple fertility therapies to get pregnant, putting her relationship with her husband (Paul Giamatti) on edge.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Tamara Jenkins
- 41
The Hawk Is Dying
Paul Giamatti, Michelle Williams, Michael PittAs George Gatling—a man struggling with grief after losing a loved one—in Julian Goldberger's 2006 drama The Hawk Is Dying, Paul Giamatti delivers an emotionally charged performance that showcases his ability to tackle complex characters and imbue them with raw authenticity.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Julian Goldberger
- 42
In this powerful HBO anthology film released in 2000, Paul Giamatti stars as Ted Hedley—a married man coping with the sudden death of his gay lover during the early years of the AIDS crisis. His poignant performance adds emotional depth to the thought-provoking vignettes exploring different aspects of lesbian experiences throughout history.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Jane Anderson, Martha Coolidge, Anne Heche
- 43
In John Hamburg's quirky 1998 crime-comedy Safe Men, Paul Giamatti plays Big Fat Bernie Gayle—an eccentric underworld kingpin who mistakenly hires Sam Rockwell and Steve Zahn as professional safecrackers for a high-risk job. Giamatti brings both humor and menace to his role, demonstrating once again his chameleonic acting abilities.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: John Hamburg
- 44
As King John in Jonathan English’s brutal medieval action film Ironclad (2011), Paul Giamatti is unrecognizable beneath a crown and royal regalia—ruling over a kingdom betrayed by treachery and violence while defying rebel forces determined to bring him down.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Jonathan English
- 45
Paul Giamatti makes a brief yet impactful appearance in Todd Solondz’s controversial 2001 independent film Storytelling—participating in one of two distinct narratives that provide unflinching examinations of societal taboos and human behavior.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Todd Solondz
- 46
In Jaume Collet-Serra's action-packed adventure film Jungle Cruise (2021), Paul Giamatti brings excitement and intrigue to the role of Nilo—a wealthy Italian entrepreneur who crosses paths with Dwayne Johnson’s fearless riverboat captain and Emily Blunt’s intrepid explorer as they search for an ancient tree with healing powers.
- Released: 2021
- Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra
- 47
Paul Giamatti’s comedic talents shine through in Peter Hewitt's absurd yet amusing British family movie Thunderpants (2002). As U.S. space agency executive Johnson J. Johnson, he embraces the film's quirky premise about a young boy with extraordinary flatulence as they team up to save astronauts stranded aboard a space station.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Peter Hewitt
- 48
In Rod Holcomb's riveting 2003 docudrama The Pentagon Papers—which portrays Daniel Ellsberg’s (James Spader) courageous decision to leak top-secret government files exposing decades-long deception regarding the Vietnam War—Paul Giamatti provides crucial support as Anthony Russo—a fellow military analyst committed to revealing the truth at great personal risk.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Rod Holcomb
- 49
In Rob Zombie's outrageous 2009 adult-themed animated film The Haunted World of El Superbeasto, Paul Giamatti lends his distinctive voice to the character Dr. Satan—an evil genius with plans for world domination thwarted by a washed-up luchador (voiced by Tom Papa) and his sister Suzi X (Sheri Moon Zombie).
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Mr. Lawrence, Rob Zombie
- 50
As Stan Beals in John A. Davis' heartwarming 2006 animated family film The Ant Bully, Paul Giamatti voices a greedy exterminator who becomes the target of a colony of ants determined to protect their home from his sinister agenda.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: John A. Davis
In Don Coscarelli’s mind-bending 2012 horror-comedy John Dies at the End, Paul Giamatti plays Arnie—a skeptical journalist eager to uncover the truth behind two slackers (Chase Williamson and Rob Mayes) who claim their reality has been altered by a mysterious drug known as Soy Sauce. As the story unravels into ever more bizarre territory, Giamatti grounds it with his signature gravitas and wit.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Don Coscarelli
- 52The lives of Carolyn Ryan (Meryl Streep), a small-town doctor, and her artist husband, Ben (Liam Neeson), are shaken up when their son, Jacob (Edward Furlong), becomes the prime suspect in the death of a local teen girl. While Carolyn is intent on learning the truth about her son's involvement, Ben is willing to protect him at any cost, regardless of his guilt or innocence. When Jacob finally tells his parents what happened, events take a surprising series of turns.
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Barbet Schroeder
- 53Asterix and the Vikings is a 2006 French animated feature film, produced in France and Denmark, and directed by Stefan Fjeldmark and Jesper Møller. The story was adapted from the graphic novel Asterix and the Normans, which was written by René Goscinny and illustrated by Albert Uderzo. The film was written by Stefan Fjeldmark in collaboration with Jean-Luc Gossens, with supplementary dialogue by Philip LaZebnik. The story has seen some changes from the original comic book: for example, the prolonged journey of the heroes back to Norway and the banquet and fight scenes therein. Also, the inclusion of the strong-willed daughter of Timandahaf, Abba, Justforkix's father, Doublehelix and dim-witted son of Crypthograf, Olaf and anachronist references about modern technology such as SMS. The resolution to the Vikings' quest for fear remained the same, but was minimalized to a brief gag in the movie's finale wedding scene. The film also makes use of cover versions of pop songs, such as Get Down on It by Kool and the Gang Survivor's Eye of the Tiger and Super Freak by Rick James.
- Directed by: Stefan Fjeldmark, Jesper Möller
- 54Cosmopolis is a 2012 Canadian drama-thriller film written, produced, and directed by David Cronenberg and starring Robert Pattinson. It is based on the novel of the same name by Don DeLillo. On 25 May 2012, the film premiered in competition for the Palme d'Or at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival, drawing mixed early critical reactions. The film was released in Canada on 8 June 2012, and began a limited release in the United States on 17 August 2012. It is Cronenberg's first foray into script writing since 1999's eXistenZ.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: David Cronenberg
- 55Pretty Bird is a 2008 American comedy film. It competed in the Dramatic Competition at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Paul Schneider
- Fyre Fraud is a 2019 American documentary film directed by Jenner Furst and Julia Willoughby Nason that premiered on Hulu on January 14, 2019. A look at the whistleblowers, victims, and the lack of accountability associated with the promotion and execution of the Fyre Festival.
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: Jenner Furst, Julia Willoughby Nason
- 57The True Story of the Three Little Pigs is a 2008 animated short film directed by Konstantin Bronzit.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Konstantin Bronzit
- 58This docudrama chronicles the life of gossip columnist Walter Winchell (Stanley Tucci). Rising to fame in the mid-1930s, Winchell helps usher in the age of tabloid journalism with his talent for digging up dirt about the rich and powerful. By the 1950s, Winchell has secured his place as America's leader in controversy -- even if his prose comes courtesy of ghostwriter Herman Klurfeld (Paul Giamatti). But the tables turn when Winchell finds himself at the center of a high-profile scandal.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Paul Mazursky
- 59The Amazing Screw-On Head is a 2006 TV film directed by Chris Prynoski.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Chris Prynoski
- 60
The Fan and the Flower
Paul Giamatti- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Bill Plympton