Summary
- Tom Hanks’ underrated films showcase his diverse talent and captivate viewers with unique narratives and characters.
-
Joe Versus the Volcano
,
Road to Perdition
, and
The ‘Burbs
are prime examples of Hanks’ ability in lesser-known projects. - These movies explore themes of personal transformation, morals, and resilience, highlighting Hanks’ versatility and depth as an actor.
Tom Hanks is one of Hollywood’s most beloved and accomplished actors, renowned for his blockbuster hits like Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and Toy Story. His talent for bringing depth and humanity to his characters has earned him a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide. However, despite his fame, some of the best scenes of Tom Hanks’ entire career, have flown under the radar, overshadowed by his more iconic ones. These underrated films showcase his versatility and ability to captivate viewers, even in lesser-known projects.
Tom Hanks’ underrated movies offer a glimpse into his talent. From dramas to comedies, these films highlight his skill at tackling diverse genres and complicated roles. Even if these films didn’t receive the same level of popularity as his more famous works, they deserve more credit for their uniqueness. By delving into these overlooked movies, we can see some of Tom Hanks’ best movies and his contribution to cinema beyond the well-trodden paths of his career.
|
Film |
Release Date |
|---|---|
|
Joe Versus the Volcano |
March 9, 1990 |
|
Road to Perdition |
July 12, 2002 |
|
The ‘Burbs |
February 17, 1989 |
|
The Terminal |
June 18, 2004 |
|
Cloud Atlas |
October 26, 2012 |
|
Radio Flyer |
February 21, 1992 |
|
Larry Crowne |
July 1, 2011 |
|
Cast Away |
December 22, 2000 |
|
Greyhound |
July 10, 2020 |
|
News of the World |
December 25, 2020 |
Related Tom Hanks’ Movie Career Was Forever Changed By This $206 Million Box Office Hit Over 30 Years Ago
Today, Tom Hanks is regarded as an actor capable of any role, and it was his dramatic performance in a 1993 movie that earned him this reputation.
10 Joe Versus the Volcano (1990)
A Classical Hanks Comedy
Joe vs. The Volcano (1990) PGComedyRomance
Joe vs. The Volcano is a romantic comedy directed by John Patrick Shanley, featuring Tom Hanks as Joe Banks, an unhappy office worker diagnosed with a terminal illness. Meg Ryan co-stars in multiple roles, as Joe embarks on a whimsical journey to a South Pacific island to fulfill a bizarre request from an eccentric millionaire. The film explores themes of existentialism and personal transformation through its quirky narrative.
Director John Patrick Shanley Cast Tom Hanks , Meg Ryan , Lloyd Bridges , Robert Stack , Abe Vigoda , Dan Hedaya , Barry McGovern , Ossie Davis Release Date March 9, 1990 Studio(s) Amblin Entertainment Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Writers John Patrick Shanley Runtime 102 Minutes Main Genre Comedy Expand
Joe Versus the Volcano is an underrated gem in Tom Hanks’ repertoire that deserves more recognition. Initially disliked by critics, this quirky comedy has gradually gained a cult following over time. The film presents a narrative that blends romance and adventure with a bit of existentialism. Tom Hanks stars as Joe Banks, an office worker diagnosed with a terminal illness. His trip to a tropical island to sacrifice himself to a volcano is filled with both funny and unexpected moments.
Hanks’s character in Joe Versus the Volcano balances humor and heart. The film’s offbeat charm and surreal storytelling set it apart from more conventional comedies of its time. The film’s creative visuals and strange plot twists showcase Hanks’s ability to handle different roles easily. Over the years, Joe Versus the Volcano has solidified its status as a classic, highlighting both Hanks’s versatility and the film’s bizarre appeal.
9 Road to Perdition (2002)
A Tale Of Morals And Family
Road to Perdition RDramaCrimeThriller Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
2002’s Road to Perdition sees Tom Hanks step into the role of Michael Sullivan, a man raised by an Irish Mob boss who betrays him. Directed by Sam Mendes, Sullivan embarks on a journey to get vengeance on the man who wronged him.
Director Sam Mendes Cast Tom Hanks , Tyler Hoechlin , Stanley Tucci , Daniel Craig , Jude Law , Jennifer Jason Leigh , Dylan Baker , Paul Newman Release Date July 12, 2002 Studio(s) DreamWorks Distribution Distributor(s) 20th Century , DreamWorks Distribution Writers David Self Runtime 117 minutes Main Genre Crime Expand
Road to Perdition is an underrated Tom Hanks movie that deserves more of the public’s approval for its storytelling and performances. In this film, Hanks takes on the role of Michael Sullivan, a hitman seeking vengeance. Despite being overshadowed by other projects in Hanks’ career, Road to Perdition stands out for its themes of morality and family.
Hanks considers Road to Perdition an important part of his career, and it’s easy to see why. His portrayal of Sullivan is very layered, showing a man torn between his violent profession and his love for his family. The film features strong supporting acting from Paul Newman and Jude Law, adding dimension to the already rich characters. The film’s dark visuals alongside Sam Mendes’ direction create a gripping experience that lingers with viewers long after they finish watching the movie.
8 The ‘Burbs (1989)
Dark Comedy And Suburban Satire
The ‘Burbs (1989) PG-13ComedyMysteryThriller Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
The ‘Burbs is a dark comedy directed by Joe Dante, starring Tom Hanks as Ray Peterson, a suburbanite who grows suspicious of his eccentric new neighbors. As strange events unfold, Peterson and his friends become increasingly convinced that something sinister is happening next door. The film explores themes of paranoia and suburban life with a humorous twist.
Director Joe Dante Cast Tom Hanks , Bruce Dern , Carrie Fisher , Corey Feldman , Rick Ducommun , Wendy Schaal , Henry Gibson , Theodore Gottlieb Release Date February 17, 1989 Writers Dana Olsen Runtime 102 Minutes Main Genre Comedy Expand
The ‘Burbsdeserves more attention for its good use of satire and Hanks’ engaging lines. In this dark comedy, Tom Hanks plays Ray Peterson, a man who becomes suspicious of his new neighbors and convinces his friends to help him investigate them. The film cleverly critiques the paranoia and the absurd situations that can arise even in a seemingly perfect suburban neighborhood, making it a standout in Hanks’s diverse films.
The film’s satirical take on suburban life remains relevant even to this day.
On release, The ‘Burbs was received with mixed reviews. However, it has strongly garnered a following over the years; with many fans appreciating its original blend of comedy and horror. In this movie, Hanks shows his ability to balance humor with a touch of fear as he navigates the bizarre events happening in his neighborhood. The film’s satirical take on suburban life remains relevant even to this day, and its clever dialogue and memorable characters make it a hidden gem worth watching.
7 The Terminal (2004)
Hanks Shines In A Unique Situation
The Terminal PG-13DramaComedyRomance Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
A man from a politically unstable country finds himself stranded at JFK Airport when his homeland undergoes a coup. Unable to enter the United States or return home, he adapts to life within the terminal, forming unique relationships and displaying resilience in the face of bureaucratic obstacles and personal challenges.
Director Steven Spielberg Cast Tom Hanks , Catherine Zeta-Jones , Stanley Tucci , Chi McBride , Diego Luna Release Date June 18, 2004 Writers Andrew Niccol , Sacha Gervasi , Jeff Nathanson Runtime 128 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
As one of the best movies directed by Steven Spielberg, The Terminal tells the story of Viktor Navorski, a man from a fictional Eastern European country who becomes stranded at New York’s JFK Airport when his country undergoes a sudden political conflict. Hanks once again skillfully blends humor and drama, capturing perfectly the life of a man trying to navigate life in an airport. Unfortunately, the movie was met with mixed reviews immediately after its release.
The Terminal explores themes of isolation, resilience, and the kindness of strangers, all delivered through Hanks’s charming acting. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from frustration to hope, allows the audience to get into Viktor’s perspective. While it may not be as loved as some of his other works, The Terminal remains solid proof of Tom Hanks’ skill at bringing depth and authenticity to more unconventional movies.
2:15 
Related The 10 Movies That Defined Tom Hanks’ Career
Tom Hanks is an outstanding actor with an illustrious career behind him, but on his way to the A-list, some significant movies shaped his career.
6 Radio Flyer (1992)
A Heartfelt Story With Hanks’ Touch
Close
A good example of a Tom Hanks movie flying under the radar is Radio Flyer. In this 1992 drama, Hanks narrates the imaginative story of two young brothers who go on a journey to escape their troubled reality. Tom Hanks doesn’t appear on-screen, but his voice still adds a layer of warmth and nostalgia. Besides the film’s relative obscurity, it proves that Hank’s narrative voice can evoke as much emotion and depth as he was on-screen.
Radio Flyer
is often overlooked but features Tom Hanks in a moving supporting role, adding emotional depth to this underappreciated drama.
Radio Flyer is a bold movie that tackles complex themes of childhood trauma in a way that few family films dare to approach. This movie is a reminder of the variety of Hanks’ career and his knack for choosing projects that, while not always mainstream hits, contribute significantly to his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most beloved and accomplished actors.
5 Cloud Atlas (2012)
Hanks In Multiple Roles Across Timelines
Cloud Atlas rAdventureDocumentaryDramaSci-Fi Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
Director Tom Tykwer , Lilly Wachowski , Lana Wachowski Release Date October 26, 2012 Cast Tom Hanks , Halle Berry , Jim Broadbent , Hugo Weaving , Jim Sturgess , Doona Bae Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers David Mitchell , Lana Wachowski , Tom Tykwer , Lilly Wachowski Runtime 172minutes Expand
Cloud Atlas is an ambitious film that sadly flopped at the box office. Directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer, the film weaves together multiple storylines happening across different timelines, with Tom Hanks playing several different characters. His performances ranged from a 19th-century physician to a futuristic clone. Even with the film’s intricate structured narrative, it remains underappreciated, often overshadowed by more straightforward or mainstream films within the genre.
The film’s innovative storytelling, with its interconnected plots spanning centuries, unfortunately, ended up being too complex to appeal to a wider audience. Nonetheless, each of the characters of the movie contributes to the idea of humanity’s interconnectedness and the impact each action has across time. Over time, the film has gained recognition for its ambition and artistic vision, cementing its status as an underrated entry in Hanks’s career.
4 Larry Crowne (2011)
A Heartwarming Tale Of Reinvention
Larry Crowne Comedy Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
Larry Crowne (2011) stars Tom Hanks as a middle-aged man who, after losing his job, enrolls in community college to reinvent himself. Directed by Tom Hanks, the film explores themes of resilience and self-discovery, with Julia Roberts playing his speech professor, Mercedes Tainot. The story focuses on Larry’s journey of personal growth and the relationships he forms along the way.
Director Tom Hanks Cast Tom Hanks , Julia Roberts , Bryan Cranston Release Date July 1, 2011 Runtime 98 Minutes
Starring Tom Hanks as a middle-aged man who, after losing his job, decides to enroll in college, Larry Crowne explores the idea of reinvention and second chances. Hanks makes the audience feel related to Larry Crowne, capturing the essence of a man eager to rediscover his purpose and have a fresh start. The film’s gentle humor and uplifting message offer a different take on personal growth, making it a feel-good watch that resonates with many viewers.
Even with its positive themes and flawless acting from both Hank and Julia Roberts as Larry’s love interest, it did not receive widespread acclaim upon its release. Its focus on personal transformation and the pursuit of happiness often gets overshadowed by more high-profile films. The movie’s arrangement of its themes, combined with Hanks’ and Roberts’ chemistry, make the film a wonderful experience.
3 Cast Away (2000)
Exploring Themes Of Isolation And Survival
Cast Away PG-13AdventureDocumentaryDrama Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
Directed by Robert Zemeckis in his second collaboration with Tom Hanks, Cast Away tells the story of FedEx executive Chuck Noland, who strives to survive in a deserted island after a plane crash. The film, which mostly takes place in the uninhabited island, earned Hanks a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Director Robert Zemeckis Cast Paul Sanchez , Lari White , Leonid Citer , David Allen Brooks , Jelena Papovic , Valentina Ananyina Release Date December 22, 2000 Studio(s) 20th Century Distributor(s) 20th Century , DreamWorks Distribution Writers William Broyles Jr. Runtime 143 minutes Expand
Cast Away is one of the best survival movies for its depiction of solitude and survival, yet some of its concepts are sometimes missed. Tom Hanks plays FedEx executive Chuck Noland in the movie, who becomes stuck on an uninhabited island following an aircraft crash. Hanks gives an outstanding performance that perfectly captures the essence of loneliness. Beyond just focusing on survival, the film explores a human’s response to physical and psychological isolation.
The volleyball draws attention to Noland’s emotional journey and demonstrates how solitude may result in introspection and personal growth. The way the movie portrays Noland’s battle with loneliness and his eventual search for purpose and connection strikes a deeper chord, offering a different perceptive on human nature and development.
Related I’d Love To See Tom Hanks In Star Trek, But I’m Glad He’s Not In First Contact
Tom Hanks was linked to the role of Zefram Cochrane in Star Trek: First Contact, but could Hollywood’s nicest man have pulled off the rougher edges?
2 Greyhound (2020)
A Tense World War II Drama
Greyhound (2020) PG-13WarDrama
Director Aaron Schneider Cast Lee Norris , Elisabeth Shue , Devin Druid , Tom Hanks , Maximilian Osinski , Rob Morgan , Grayson Russell , Karl Glusman , Craig Tate , Michael Benz , Tom Brittney , Stephen Graham , Manuel Garcia-Rulfo , Matthew Zuk Release Date July 10, 2020 Studio(s) Apple Distributor(s) Apple Writers Tom Hanks Runtime 91 minutes Expand
Greyhound is a war film that deserves more recognition for its excellently executed enactment of naval combat during World War II. Hanks shines in his role as Captain Krause, a character committed to his crew’s safety amidst the intense pressures of battle. The film’s meticulous attention to historical detail and the tension-filled scenes mark Hanks’ ability to tell a more solid story.
Greyhound
was historically accurate for its use of detailed naval tactics and authentic portrayals of convoy defense against U-boat attacks.
The movie, though well-received by those who watched it, hasn’t received the praise it deserves. Its narrative and focus on the procedural aspects of warfare offer a fresh perspective in a genre often dominated by exaggerated battles. The film’s emphasis on the psychological toll of command is rarely explored in war dramas, making Hanks’ character in this movie reveal a quieter yet powerful side of heroism and leadership, making Greyhound notable yet often underappreciated.
1 News of the World (2020)
Hanks Excels In A Historical Setting
News of the World PG-13WesternAdventureDramaAction Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US
Starring Tom Hanks, News of the World is a 2020 Western film directed by Paul Greengrass. Based on the Paulette Jiles novel of the same name, the film sees a Civil War veteran trying to return a young girl to her only remaining family.
Director Paul Greengrass Cast Tom Hanks , Neil Sandilands , Michael Covino , Fred Hechinger , Helena Zengel Release Date December 25, 2020 Studio(s) Universal Pictures Distributor(s) Universal Pictures Writers Paul Greengrass , Luke Davies Runtime 118 minutes Expand
In News of the World, Hanks takes on the role of Captain Kidd, a Civil War veteran traveling through post-war Texas. The film’s portrayal of a fractured America and Kidd’s evolving relationship with a young girl offers an interesting point of view of redemption and justice in a tumultuous time. The movie delivers the idea of a traditional hero being replaced by a flawed figure, reflecting the shifting values of modern Westerns.
News of the World
deserves more recognition for its heartfelt tale of courage and connection in a divided world.
The film has an intimate style of storytelling that may have led to it being a box office failure. News of the World deserves more recognition for its heartfelt tale of courage and connection in a divided world. Its clever use of minimalistic settings and sparse dialogue make the movie feel complex but sweet. News from the World helps shine some light on the genre’s potential to have more sentimental stories that are still relevant.