Denzel Washington has one of the most consistent careers in Hollywood, turning nearly every role into something memorable. Whether it’s Training Day, Malcolm X, or even his action thrillers, he always brings intensity and authenticity that never disappoint. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Aside from the misfire of The Fifth Estate, Benedict Cumberbatch has built one of the most reliable filmographies of his generation. From The Imitation Game and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy to Sherlock and Doctor Strange, he’s proven he can shine in both prestige dramas and blockbusters. | © The Weinstein Company
Jessica Chastain’s career is filled with bold choices, from Zero Dark Thirty and The Help to Crimson Peak and A Most Violent Year. Even in divisive films like The Tree of Life or Interstellar, she brings a presence and commitment that always stand out. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Daniel Day-Lewis built his reputation on quality over quantity, appearing in only 20 films but making nearly all of them critical successes. Even his weaker efforts still earned praise, and his best roles, like My Beautiful Laundrette, There Will Be Blood, and Lincoln, set the standard for modern acting. | © Paramount Pictures
River Phoenix was often called the next James Dean, with a short but powerful career cut tragically short in 1993. From Stand By Me to My Own Private Idaho and Running on Empty, his performances proved he was only beginning to show what he was capable of. | © Fine Line Features
Cillian Murphy has quietly built a filmography full of hits, from 28 Days Later and Inception to The Wind That Shakes the Barley. Fearless in his choices, he’s taken on everything from thrillers to deeply challenging character studies and always delivered. | © Universal Studios
Christian Bale is famous for throwing himself completely into roles, whether it’s dropping drastic weight for The Machinist or bulking up to play Batman. His total commitment has made even his riskier projects memorable and kept his career stacked with standout performances. | © Lionsgate Films
James Dean left behind only three major films, but each one became iconic. Whether playing a troubled son, a restless teen, or an ambitious drifter, he delivered performances that still resonate decades later. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
After Titanic made him a global heartthrob, Leonardo DiCaprio could have coasted on easy leading-man roles. Instead, he proved his range with bold choices like The Beach, Gangs of New York, and The Aviator, building a career defined by risk and acclaim. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Tilda Swinton has taken on everything from indie art films to big-budget blockbusters, and she’s never once phoned it in. Whether it’s Only Lovers Left Alive or The Chronicles of Narnia, her presence makes every project more interesting. | © Sony Pictures Classics
Harry Dean Stanton had a gift for playing weary, soulful characters, and he stuck to what he did best. That consistency meant he never really gave a bad performance, no matter the film. | © Marvel Studios
Cate Blanchett’s filmography is one of the strongest in Hollywood, with only a few misses among more than 50 films. From her Oscar-winning roles in The Aviator and Blue Jasmine to standout turns in everything from Carol to Hanna, she consistently delivers unforgettable performances. | © New Line Cinema
Michael Keaton has a rare ability to make every role feel compelling, no matter what the movie is. Even when the film itself falls short, his energetic performances always shine and keep the audience fully engaged. | © Sony Pictures Entertainment
Carey Mulligan has built a career on smart choices, balancing period dramas with modern thrillers and indie gems. She has worked with some of the best directors in the industry, and her performances always bring depth, no matter the project. | © FilmDistrict
John Cazale’s film career was short but flawless. He appeared in just five movies, and every one was nominated for Best Picture. From The Godfather to The Deer Hunter, he delivered unforgettable performances that left a lasting mark on cinema. | © Paramount Pictures
Some actors build careers on consistency, never turning in a performance that feels out of place. Here are 15 stars, who have managed to avoid bad movies altogether.
