Kevin Costner started his acting career in 1981 and is still an industry icon and bankable movie and TV series star to this day. The 1990s continued his breakout run from the late 80s, showcasing his ability to portray a wide variety of characters in different genres. The decade saw him evolve from minor roles in smaller productions to the leading star in big-budget films, producing some of the best films of Kevin Costner’s career and a testament to his talent and appreciation for his craft.
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Costner’s ability to encompass his characters fully has led to many iconic roles, including Lt. John Dunbar in the Academy Award-winning Dances with Wolves to the legendary lawman in Wyatt Earp. His work in front of and behind the camera really elevated his skill, both in some of Costner’s best action movies and also in more underrated drama pieces that have formed the basis for his incredible career. Costner’s 90s filmography is a thing to behold, with a wide range of eclectic and critically acclaimed roles that have truly stood the test of time.
13 Message In A Bottle (1999)
As Garrett Blake
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Message in a Bottle PG-13DramaRomance
Message in a Bottle, directed by Luis Mandoki, follows a woman who discovers a heartfelt letter in a bottle and seeks out its author, a widowed shipbuilder. As they develop a deep connection, the shipbuilder grapples with moving past the tragic loss of his wife.
Director Luis Mandoki Release Date February 12, 1999 Studio(s) Bel Air Entertainment , Di Novi Pictures , Tig Productions Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Gerald Di Pego Cast Kevin Costner , Robin Wright , John Savage , Illeana Douglas , Robbie Coltrane , Paul Newman Runtime 131 Minutes Budget $30 Million Main Genre Drama Expand
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Based on Nicholas Sparks’s novel of the same name, Message In A Bottle stars Costner as a quiet, lonely widower who gets drawn into a new love story when a journalist, Theresa (Robin Wright), discovers a message in a bottle he wrote to his deceased wife. Blake is found to be the original author, and Theresa travels to meet him, intrigued by his words, and the two start to kindle a new relationship. It is a film full of romance, chemistry, and sadness as the two new lovers can’t seem to make the timing work.
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Costner showcases his acting ability by playing the understated and quietly intense Garrett, who is caught between his previous life and new love interest. His performance is captivating as you can feel the genuine connection between him and Wright while also the pull of a man still conflicted through grief. Though in some ways formulaic, Costner and Wright’s performance helps solidify the narrative and create a compelling film that stays with you after it finishes.
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12 The Postman (1997)
As The Postman
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The Postman R
In The Postman, Kevin Costner (who also directs) plays a nameless drifter dons a postman’s uniform and bag of mail as he begins a quest to inspire hope to the survivors living in post-apocalyptic America.
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*Availability in US Director Kevin Costner Release Date December 25, 1997 Cast Kevin Costner , Will Patton , Tom Petty , Olivia Williams , Larenz Tate Runtime 177 Mins
Set in a post-apocalyptic, neo-Western version of the USA in 2013, after a series of disasters and plagues, civilization is holding on by a thread. The Postman follows a drifting nomad who finds a USPS uniform and mailbag and uses this new identity to inspire new confidence in American ideals and provide hopes of a restored United States. The film, directed and starring Costner, was thought of as a modern-day fairytale and parable about one man stepping up to provide a ray of resilience and inspiration in a desolate world.
The Postman
is an adaption of David Brin’s 1985 book of the same name.
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Though the film was widely criticized, with reviewers taking shots at the screenplay and runtime, it does feature a solid performance from Costner, who portrays the nomadic wanderer in convincing fashion. Similar to some of his other roles, he plays the gritty outsider with charisma and charm, which helps elevate the story to new heights. His direction is solid, shown throughout the pacing, emotion, and characters. Though it’s not his most popular work, it is still an interesting and worthwhile film in his repertoire
11 Revenge (1990)
As Michael Cochran
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In the romantic thriller Revenge, Costner stars a retiring U.S. Navy aviator who is invited to Mexico by his wealthy friends, who happens to be one of the top crime bosses in the country. The pilot falls for his friend’s wife as she is lonely and unfulfilled in the marriage, and the two engage in a salacious affair. Costner plays his role perfectly in this tense and passionate thriller that is full of twists, suspense, and vengeance.
Revenge
is an adaption of a novella written by Jim Harrison which was published in Esquire magazine in 1979.
Costner’s good looks and natural confidence help further the comparison between himself and the older, cruel mob boss. His chemistry with Miryea (Madeleine Stowe) is palpable throughout, with some steamy, romantic scenes that spice up the plot. Costner shows he is just as at home in a romantic drama as he is in a war-torn apocalypse, and his work was praised for his emotionally charged delivery and darker take on the role.
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10 Tin Cup (1996)
As Roy McAvoy
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Tin Cup (1996) RDramaRomanceComedySports
Tin Cup, directed by Ron Shelton, stars Kevin Costner as Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, a former golf prodigy turned driving range instructor with a self-destructive streak. As he attempts to qualify for the U.S. Open, he becomes romantically entangled with his psychologist, played by Rene Russo, and faces off against his rival, David Simms, portrayed by Don Johnson. The film showcases McAvoy’s journey to reclaim his past glory and personal redemption.
Director Ron Shelton Release Date August 16, 1996 Writers John Norville , Ron Shelton Cast Kevin Costner , Rene Russo , Don Johnson , Cheech Marin , Linda Hart , Dennis Burkley , Rex Linn , Lou Myers , Richard Lineback , George Perez , Mickey Jones , Michael Milhoan , Gary McCord , Craig Stadler , Peter Jacobsen , Jim Nantz Character(s) Roy McAvoy , Dr. Molly Griswold , David Simms , Romeo Posar , Doreen , Earl , Dewey , Clint , Curt , Jose , Turk , Boone , Gary McCord , Craig Stadler , Peter Jacobsen , CBS Announcer Runtime 135 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
In Tin Cup, the plot follows Roy ‘Tin Cup’ McAvoy, portrayed by Costner, a former golf prodigy who refused to stop playing the riskiest shots, which cost him his career on the PGA tour. After running into Dr. Molly Griswold (Rene Russo), who is looking for golf lessons, his attraction reunites his passion for golf as he makes another play to qualify and win the U.S. Open. In a more light-hearted romantic comedy than some of his other romance films, he is able to balance humor and drama expertly.
Kevin Costner trained with American golfer and commentator Gary McCord in order to learn how to play golf convincingly for the film.
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For his role in Tin Cup, Costner received a nomination at the Golden Globes for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. His chemistry with Russo was a highlight of the film, with both showing excellent comedic timing and a genuine connection throughout the film. Costner shows he is more than just a drama or action star as he delivers a hilarious performance while also presenting moments of emotion when discussing his golfing career.
9 The Bodyguard (1992)
As Frank Farmer
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The Bodyguard RActionDramaMusic
The Bodyguard, released in 1992, is a romantic thriller directed by Mick Jackson. Kevin Costner stars as Frank Farmer, a former Secret Service agent, who is hired to protect Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston), a music superstar, from an unknown stalker. The film explores the evolving professional and personal relationship between the bodyguard and his client, set against the backdrop of increasing danger.
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*Availability in US Director Mick Jackson Release Date November 25, 1992 Writers Lawrence Kasdan Cast Kevin Costner , Whitney Houston , Gary Kemp , Bill Cobbs , Ralph Waite , Tomas Arana , Michele Lamar Richards , Mike Star Runtime 129 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
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In one of his more famous works, Costner portrays a former United States Secret Service agent tasked to bodyguard famous actress and singer Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston) from a dangerous and unknown stalker. The gruff and straight-laced bodyguard contrasts with Marron’s free-spirited energy and soon sparks start to fly. The romantic tension and heightened drama of a life at risk make this an iconic film in Costner’s filmography.
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The Bodyguard, with its incredible soundtrack and memorable performances, has become somewhat of a cult classic film over the years. Costner’s performance is one of gentle intensity and stoicism that helped further launch him into superstardom, showing a unique understanding of an understated role. The chemistry between the two leads, a mark of Costner’s style, helped further elevate the film, and it remains one of the standout gems of Costner’s early career.
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8 Waterworld (1995)
As Mariner
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Waterworld pg-13Action Sci-Fi
Waterworld follows a lone drifter known as “The Mariner”, played by Kevin Costner, who finds himself in a conflict between a group of survivors seeking a mythical place called “Dryland” and a gang of pirates who want to capture and enslave them. Directed by Kevin Reynolds, the 1995 post-apocalyptic action movie is set in a future where sea levels have risen, covering most of the Earth’s landmass.
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*Availability in US Director Kevin Reynolds Release Date July 28, 1995 Studio(s) Universal Pictures Distributor(s) Universal Pictures Writers Kevin Reynolds Cast Kevin Costner , Jeanne Tripplehorn , Jack Black , Kim Coates , Dennis Hopper Runtime 135minutes Budget $175million Expand
In Waterworld, Costner plays drifter and nameless antihero ‘The Mariner’ who sails around the globe after the polar ice caps melt, submerging nearly all of the land on Earth in water. The film was released with massive hype and knowledge of how far it went over budget, so the audience and critics had a lot of preconceived notions before viewing it. The film was commended for its ambitious scale, intricate sets and scenes, and expansive action sequences.
Waterworld
was the most expensive film ever made at the time of its release.
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Costner’s portrayal of the nomadic sailor helped ensure Waterworld as a firm cult classic that has garnered respect and appreciation as the years went on. His dedication to the physicality and energy of the character was infectious and invaded all other elements of the film. Costner has publicly stated that he is very fond of the film, and his iconic, brooding role of ‘The Mariner,’ combined with the explosive action sequences, make it worth watching on its own.
7 The War (1994)
As Stephen Simmons
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Costner stars as Stephen Simmons, a shell-shocked Vietnam war veteran who is trying to rebuild his and his family’s life after coming back from war and leaving a mental hospital after suffering from night terrors. It follows Stephen as he tries to gain willful employment to help support his family and his struggles with connecting and rebuilding his relationship with his young family after witnessing the brutality of the war.
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The 10 Highest-Grossing Kevin Costner Films Of All Time: |
Amount Grossed: |
|---|---|
|
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) |
$872 million |
|
Man Of Steel (2013) |
$667 million |
|
Dances With Wolves (1990) |
$424 million |
|
The Bodyguard (1992) |
$411 million |
|
Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1991) |
$390 million |
|
Waterworld (1995) |
$264 million |
|
Hidden Figures (2016) |
$229 million |
|
JFK (1991) |
$205 million |
|
Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014) |
$131 million |
|
The Guardian (2006) |
$94 million |
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The film, alongside Costner’s quiet portrayal, explores themes of poverty, trauma, and family dynamics that form the central issues in the narrative. Costner is at his most vulnerable here, playing a struggling veteran who is doing all he can to support his family while harboring and dealing with his own issues. His role is played to perfection with numerous genuine moments of honest reflection and a story that feels relatable to so many. Costner’s chemistry with his son, Stu, played by a young Elijah Wood, is one of the main highlights of an exemplary film.
6 For Love Of The Game (1999)
As Billy Chapel
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10/10 For Love of the Game PG-13SportsDramaRomance
For Love of the Game, directed by Sam Raimi, follows a veteran baseball pitcher nearing the end of his career. As he reflects on his past and personal life, he faces one final opportunity to showcase his skill and reconcile with the woman he loves.
Director Sam Raimi Release Date September 17, 1999 Writers Michael Shaara , Dana Stevens Cast Kevin Costner , Kelly Preston , John C. Reilly , Jena Malone , Brian Cox , J.K. Simmons , Vin Scully , Steve Lyons Runtime 137 Minutes Main Genre Sports Expand
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As an accomplished collegiate baseball player and a man with numerous baseball moves under his belt, Kevin Costner was the perfect star for this sports drama, which follows an aging baseball pitcher in the late stages of his career. As he feels his moment and time passing, he puts in the performance of a lifetime, with a chance at a perfect game, with no bases and no hits. The film shows the pressures of being a professional athlete at the highest level and also how these stars can remain composed in such tense situations.
For Love Of The Game
was based on Michael Shaara’s 1991 novel of the same title.
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The film follows the performance and intersperses flashbacks of a long-term relationship Costner’s character, Billy Chapel, has with single mother, Jane (Kelly Preston). Costner seemed destined to play this part as he has the baseball background to make the sports sequences all look realistic, executing the proper technique throughout. His performance as a famous, accomplished pitcher who is now reaching the end of his career and being talked into retirement is a bittersweet combination, and he effortlessly embodies the role.
5 Wyatt Earp (1994)
As Wyatt Earp
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12 7.3/10 Wyatt Earp (1994) PG-13WesternDramaActionAdventure
Wyatt Earp (1994) is a biographical Western film directed by Lawrence Kasdan, starring Kevin Costner as the legendary lawman. The film chronicles Wyatt Earp’s life, focusing on his relationships with his brothers and his role in iconic events such as the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The cast includes Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday and Gene Hackman as Nicholas Earp, providing a comprehensive exploration of Earp’s complex legacy.
Director Lawrence Kasdan Release Date June 24, 1994 Writers Lawrence Kasdan , Dan Gordon Cast Kevin Costner , Dennis Quaid , Gene Hackman , Jeff Fahey , Mark Harmon , Michael Madsen , Catherine O’Hara , Bill Pullman , Isabella Rossellini , Tom Sizemore , JoBeth Williams , Mare Winningham Runtime 190 Minutes Main Genre Western Expand
In this biographical Western drama, Costner portrays the legendary figure Wyatt Earp, who went from Iowa farmboy to feared lawman with the respect of everyone he came in contact with. The film follows his story from his early years and the events leading up to the infamous O.K. Corral gunfight. It features an ensemble cast featuring icons like Gene Hackman, Mark Harmon, Michael Madsen, and Bill Pullman.
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Though a fantastic film in its own right, it was released just six months after the classic film Tombstone, which tells the same story of Wyatt Earp starring Kurt Russell. Following up such an iconic movie with the same storyline hurt it at the box office, and it never reached the same critical acclaim. Wyatt Earp unfairly gets knocked down because of this, but Costner’s performance as the gritty gunslinger is engaging and authentic and deserves to be a more beloved film in Costner’s career.
4 Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1991)
As Robin Hood
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Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) PG-13ActionAdventureDrama
In Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Kevin Costner stars as the legendary English folk hero who returns from the Crusades to find his homeland oppressed by the Sheriff of Nottingham, played by Alan Rickman. Directed by Kevin Reynolds, the film follows Robin Hood as he leads a band of outlaws to fight against injustice and restore peace. The movie also features Morgan Freeman as Azeem and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Maid Marian.
Director Kevin Reynolds Release Date June 14, 1991 Studio(s) Morgan Creek Entertainment , Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Pen Densham , John Watson Cast Kevin Costner , Morgan Freeman , Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio , Christian Slater , Alan Rickman Runtime 143 Minutes Budget 48000000 Main Genre Action Expand
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In this adaption of the classic Robin Hood tale that still holds up over 30 years later, Costner plays the title role in one of his most iconic performances. Robin Hood continues his fight against the unscrupulous and devious Sheriff of Nottingham (Alan Rickman). A film that combines romance, action, and adventure in a brilliant retelling of the legendary story that flows much faster than its 2-hour-and-21-minute runtime suggests.
Though he was criticized for not attempting the English accent (though in hindsight, this probably worked in the film’s favor), his performance was overall critically acclaimed, with an authentic yet larger-than-life portrayal of a character that can be hard to nail. Costner perfectly skirts the line between self-awareness and over-the-top theatrics that make the role what it is, and his chemistry with Rickman and the rest of the cast makes it one of the main highlights of his early filmography.
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3 A Perfect World (1993)
As Robert “Butch” Haynes
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10/10 A Perfect World (1993) PG-13CrimeDramaThriller
A Perfect World stars Kevin Costner as an escaped convict who kidnaps a young boy. As the two form an unlikely bond during their run from the law.
Director Clint Eastwood Release Date November 24, 1993 Studio(s) Malpaso Productions , Warner Bros. Pictures Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers John Lee Hancock Cast Kevin Costner , Clint Eastwood , Laura Dern , T.J. Lowther , Keith Szarabajka , Leo Burmester , Bruce McGill , Bradley Whitford , Ray McKinnon , Mary Alice , John M. Jackson , Wayne Dehart , Linda Hart , Cameron Finley , Marco Perella , Margaret Bowman , James Jeter Runtime 138 minutes Budget $30 Million Main Genre Crime Expand
A Perfect World sees Costner portray Robert ‘Butch’ Haynes, an escapee from prison who kidnaps a young boy called Phillip in order to blend in with the society he is trying to hide from. The film is a multi-layered, complicated narrative about the growing relationship between the boy and the convict as they start to develop a bond while they are on the run from a Texas Ranger (Clint Eastwood) who is consumed by bringing Haynes to justice.
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The film’s complex nature is mirrored by the complexity of Costner’s performance. At first, using the boy as a simple tool to help evade the authorities, he quickly learns the boy grew up without a male role model in a sheltered life. Ironically, it is now, as a captive, that he is free to explore some newfound freedom, and Costner perfectly plays the part of the man torn between escaping prison and doing the right thing. It is a beautiful portrayal, and the whole film is one of Costner’s most gripping works for his layered and complicated depiction.
2 JFK (1991)
As Jim Garrison
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JFK RDramaDocumentaryHistoryThriller
Follows the investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy led by New Orleans district attorney Jim Garrison.
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*Availability in US Director Oliver Stone Release Date December 20, 1991 Writers Oliver Stone , Zachary Sklar , Jim Garrison , Jim Marrs Cast Sally Kirkland , Anthony Ramirez , Ray LePere , Steve Reed , Jodie Farber , Columbia Dubose Runtime 189 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
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In one of Kevin Costner’s most underrated movies, he plays a tenacious New Orleans district attorney who follows the evidence and believes there was a conspiracy to assassinate President Kennedy. The film follows Garrison as he looks into the stories and reads reports that he finds marred with inconsistencies and inaccuracies, leading him to reach his own conclusions. The film delves into conspiracies at the highest levels of government in a complex and powerful political thriller.
The film was critically acclaimed from its release, with nominations for Academy Awards in eight categories. Costner’s portrayal was deemed as the pinnacle of the movie, with a gritty and intense portrayal of a man on a mission to expose the conspiracy. His attention to detail with the character and his thoughtful and eloquent delivery of all the evidence is exceptionally well done. Paired with Oliver Stone’s masterful direction, creates a drama that stands apart as one of the best films of the 1990s
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1 Dances With Wolves (1990)
As John J. Dunbar
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19 8.7/10 Dances With Wolves PG-13AdventureDocumentaryDramaRomanceWestern
Dances With Wolves, directed by Kevin Costner, follows Civil War soldier John Dunbar, who is sent to a remote post on the Western frontier. There, he forms an unexpected bond with a Sioux tribe, challenging his own beliefs and understanding of culture and identity.
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*Availability in US Director Kevin Costner Release Date March 30, 1990 Writers Michael Blake Cast Kevin Costner , Mary McDonnell , Graham Greene , Rodney A. Grant , Floyd Westerman , Tantoo Cardinal Runtime 181 minutes Budget $22 million Expand
In a film Costner directed and starred in, Dances with Wolves is the highlight of his career, not just the 1990s, with his expert touch all over every aspect of this film. Costner stars as Lieutenant John J. Dunbar, a Civil War soldier who befriends and makes peace with the local Sioux tribe. In a gripping tale, Dunbar is caught between his Army and his new Lakota friends, and it all comes together to create a monumental, moving, multicultural masterpiece.
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Dances with Wolves all but swept the Academy Awards, with 12 nominations and seven wins, including wins for Best Picture, Best Director (Costner), Best Editing, and Best Cinematography. It has been recognized universally as one of the most significant films of all time, and Costner’s direction and starring role played a massive part in its success. His portrayal as Dunbar is nuanced and sensitive on every level, as he transitions from stranger to family, and it remains an instant classic and Kevin Costner’s most iconic role to this day.
Kevin Costner
Discover the latest news and filmography for Kevin Costner, renowned for Dances with Wolves and Yellowstone.
Birthdate January 18, 1955 Birthplace Lynwood, California, United States Height 6 feet 1 inch Notable Projects Yellowstone , Dances With Wolves , The Untouchables