Burt Reynolds: His Iconic Films, Ranked & Reviewed
Burt Reynolds, a name synonymous with rugged charm, quick wit, and undeniable charisma, left an indelible mark on Hollywood. For decades, he was one of the most popular stars in the world, captivating audiences with his unique blend of action, comedy, and dramatic prowess. If you've ever wondered about the full scope of his impressive career, particularly his vast filmography, then exploring the comprehensive list of Burt Reynolds movies in order is a journey well worth taking. From his early television appearances to his final poignant roles, Reynolds’s cinematic journey is a testament to a career that spanned over six decades, making him one of the most recognizable actors of all time.
Born on February 11, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, Burt Reynolds evolved from a promising football player to a legendary American actor, director, and producer. His career, which stretched from 1958 to 2021, saw him tackle a diverse range of genres and formats, earning him a place in the pantheon of Hollywood greats. This article delves into his remarkable filmography, highlighting key roles and charting his evolution through the years.
Table of Contents
- The Legend: Burt Reynolds – A Brief Biography
- Personal Data and Biodata
- The Early Years: From TV to the Big Screen (1958-1971)
- The Defining Decade: Burt Reynolds Movies in the 1970s
- The 1980s and Beyond: Comedy, Action, and Drama
- Burt Reynolds Movies in Order: A Comprehensive Look
- Highest Grossing and Most Popular Burt Reynolds Films
- The Final Curtain: Burt Reynolds' Last Roles
- Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Burt Reynolds
The Legend: Burt Reynolds – A Brief Biography
Burt Reynolds was more than just an actor; he was a cultural icon whose persona resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Born Burton Leon Reynolds Jr., his early life was marked by athletic promise, particularly in football, where he excelled as a halfback at Florida State University. A knee injury, however, tragically cut short his athletic dreams, redirecting him towards a different kind of stage. This pivot led him to acting, a decision that would ultimately define his extraordinary life. His rugged good looks, mischievous grin, and self-deprecating humor quickly made him a standout. Reynolds navigated the complexities of Hollywood with a unique blend of machismo and vulnerability, making him approachable and aspirational simultaneously. He was known for performing many of his own stunts, adding to his authentic, tough-guy image, yet he could effortlessly switch to comedic timing or profound dramatic depth. His impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark that continues to inspire and entertain generations.Personal Data and Biodata
Here's a quick look at some key details about Burt Reynolds:| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1936 |
| Place of Birth | Lansing, Michigan, U.S. |
| Date of Death | September 6, 2018 |
| Place of Death | Jupiter, Florida, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 1958–2021 (Posthumous release in 2021) |
| Spouse(s) | Judy Carne (m. 1963; div. 1965) Loni Anderson (m. 1988; div. 1993) |
| Children | Quinton Reynolds (adopted) |
| Notable Roles | Lewis Medlock (Deliverance), Paul Crewe (The Longest Yard), Bo "Bandit" Darville (Smokey and the Bandit), Jack Horner (Boogie Nights) |
The Early Years: From TV to the Big Screen (1958-1971)
Burt Reynolds's career began on television, where he honed his craft and gained early recognition. His roles in popular TV series like "Gunsmoke" and "The Twilight Zone" provided him with a platform to showcase his versatility. He appeared in various guest spots and recurring roles throughout the late 1950s and 1960s, slowly building a reputation as a reliable and charismatic performer. These early experiences were crucial in shaping the actor he would become, allowing him to experiment with different character types and develop his signature on-screen presence. While television gave him a steady income and visibility, Reynolds harbored ambitions for the big screen. His early film roles, though often in supporting capacities or in B-movies, allowed him to transition into cinema. Films like "Navajo Joe" (1966) showcased his rugged appeal in Westerns, a genre that frequently capitalized on his masculine image. These foundational years, while not yet yielding the blockbusters that would define his superstardom, were essential stepping stones in his journey to becoming a leading man.The Defining Decade: Burt Reynolds Movies in the 1970s
The 1970s was the decade that truly cemented Burt Reynolds's status as a major Hollywood star. It was during this period that he starred in some of his most critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, showcasing his range from intense drama to lighthearted action-comedy. The order of his films in this decade reveals a strategic progression from serious actor to global phenomenon.Deliverance (1972): A Critical Triumph
Perhaps no other film in Burt Reynolds's filmography redefined his career as dramatically as "Deliverance" (1972). This gripping thriller, directed by John Boorman, saw Reynolds in a raw and intense performance as Lewis Medlock, a survivalist leading a canoeing trip down the Cahulawassee River. The film, which runs 1 hour and 49 minutes and is rated R, garnered an impressive 80 Metascore, indicating widespread critical acclaim. "Intent on seeing the Cahulawassee River" before it's dammed, the characters face a harrowing ordeal that pushed Reynolds to his physical and emotional limits. His portrayal of Lewis was a stark departure from his earlier, more conventional roles, proving his capabilities as a serious dramatic actor and earning him significant critical attention. "Deliverance" is often cited as one of the best films of the 1970s and a pivotal moment in Reynolds's career.The Longest Yard (1975) and Gator (1976): Sports and Southern Charm
Following the success of "Deliverance," Reynolds continued to choose roles that resonated with his burgeoning star power. "The Longest Yard" (1975) saw him return to his athletic roots, playing Paul Crewe, a disgraced former NFL quarterback who leads a team of prison inmates in a football game against their guards. This film was a massive commercial success, blending sports action with Reynolds's signature wit and rebellious spirit. It showcased his ability to carry a film with both humor and underlying dramatic tension, further solidifying his appeal to a broad audience. In 1976, Reynolds directed and starred in "Gator," a sequel to his earlier hit "White Lightning" (1973). In "Gator," he reprised his role as Gator McKlusky, a moonshiner and ex-con forced to work with federal agents. This film further established his "good ol' boy" persona, a character type that audiences adored. Both "The Longest Yard" and "Gator" capitalized on Reynolds's rugged charm and his ability to embody the free-spirited, anti-establishment hero, making them significant entries in his 1970s filmography.Smokey and the Bandit (1977): The Blockbuster Era Begins
If "Deliverance" established his acting chops, "Smokey and the Bandit" (1977) launched Burt Reynolds into the stratosphere of global superstardom. This iconic action-comedy, which featured Burt Reynolds as Bo “Bandit” Darville, a legendary truck driver and bootlegger, became a cultural phenomenon. The plot revolved around Bandit's attempt to illegally transport 400 cases of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia, all while being pursued by the determined Sheriff Buford T. Justice (played by the unforgettable Jackie Gleason). "Smokey and the Bandit" was a colossal box office hit, becoming the second-highest-grossing film of 1977, only behind "Star Wars." Its success was largely attributed to the undeniable chemistry between Reynolds and his co-stars, Sally Field and Jackie Gleason, coupled with thrilling car chases and Reynolds's effortless charm. This film, along with its sequels, firmly established Reynolds as a bankable star whose name alone could guarantee box office success. His highest-grossing movies were indeed huge hits at the box office throughout the '70s and '80s, making him one of the most recognizable actors of all time.The 1980s and Beyond: Comedy, Action, and Drama
The 1980s saw Burt Reynolds continue his reign as a box office king, primarily through a string of successful action-comedies. However, he also ventured into other genres, showcasing his range even as his public persona became increasingly defined by his charismatic, often humorous, leading man roles.The Cannonball Run (1981) and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982)
"The Cannonball Run" (1981) was another ensemble action-comedy that capitalized on Reynolds's star power and his knack for working alongside other big names. The film, featuring a cross-country illegal car race, was a massive commercial success, further solidifying his status as a king of the genre. Its lighthearted tone and star-studded cast made it a crowd-pleaser, despite mixed critical reviews. In a slight departure, Reynolds starred in "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" (1982), a musical comedy where he played Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd opposite Dolly Parton. This film showcased his ability to handle musical numbers and a more romantic, albeit still charmingly gruff, role. While not as universally acclaimed as some of his action films, it demonstrated his willingness to explore different avenues and work with diverse talent. Other notable films from this period include "Starting Over" (1979), a romantic comedy that allowed him to explore a more vulnerable side, and "Breaking In" (1989), a crime comedy-drama. The 1980s also saw him in films like "Malone" (1987), where he played Logan McQueen, a veteran, tough cop who likes to see justice done by his own ways. Things go bad after McQueen is framed for murder. Now he has to escape from a maximum security prison and seek, on the deadly streets of a hot and dangerous Miami, for the man who wants him down. This showcases his continued presence in the action genre.Later Career Highlights and Dramatic Turns
As the 1990s approached, Reynolds's box office dominance began to wane, but his acting career was far from over. He continued to work steadily, often taking on character roles that allowed him to flex his dramatic muscles. One of his most acclaimed performances came in "Boogie Nights" (1997), directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. In this film, Reynolds played Jack Horner, a pornographic film director, a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. "Boogie Nights" was a critical triumph and a powerful reminder of Reynolds's immense talent, showcasing his ability to deliver a nuanced and complex performance. This film is often regarded as one of his career-best. Beyond "Boogie Nights," Reynolds continued to appear in a variety of films and TV shows. His later career saw him take on roles in independent films, voice work, and even direct some projects. Films like "Snapshots" (2002) and "Time of the Wolf" (2002) demonstrate his continued dedication to acting. He also appeared in lighter fare such as "A Bunch of Amateurs" (2008). His extensive filmography includes TV series, TV movies, short films, and movie appearances, highlighting his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.Burt Reynolds Movies in Order: A Comprehensive Look
Compiling a complete filmography of Burt Reynolds is a monumental task, given his prolific output. The complete list of all 160 Burt Reynolds movies (in order) published spans from 1958 to 2021. This incredible body of work includes a vast array of genres, from action and drama to comedy and thrillers. While a full chronological list of every single film would be extensive, here's a glimpse at some of his key movies, roughly in chronological order, emphasizing the diversity and longevity of his career, and incorporating titles mentioned in the provided data: * **1950s-1960s (Early Roles & TV Transition):** * *Riverboat* (TV series, 1959-1961) * *Alfred Hitchcock Presents* (TV series, 1960) * *The Twilight Zone* (TV series, 1961) * *Gunsmoke* (TV series, 1962-1965) * *Navajo Joe* (1966) * *Fade In* (1968) * *Sam Whiskey* (1969) * **1970s (Rise to Stardom):** * *Deliverance* (1972) * *White Lightning* (1973) * *The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing* (1973) * *The Longest Yard* (1975) * *Gator* (1976) * *Smokey and the Bandit* (1977) * *Starting Over* (1979) * **1980s (Blockbuster King):** * *The Cannonball Run* (1981) * *The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas* (1982) * *Heat* (1986) * *Malone* (1987) * *Breaking In* (1989) * **1990s (Dramatic Resurgence & Continued Work):** * *The Player* (1992) (Cameo) * *Boogie Nights* (1997) * *Mystery, Alaska* (1999) * *Hamlet & Hutch* (2000) * **2000s-2010s (Later Career & Diverse Roles):** * *Snapshots* (2002) * *Time of the Wolf* (2002) * *A Bunch of Amateurs* (2008) * *Not Another Not Another Movie* (2011) * *A Magic Christmas* (2014) * *Apple of My Eye* (2017) (The narrator voice 2017 apple of my eye) * **2020s (Final Roles):** * *Defining Moments* (2021) (His final film role, released posthumously). This list provides a chronological journey through his most notable big-screen appearances, but it's just a snapshot of his incredibly rich and varied filmography. You can browse the complete list of movies and TV shows starring Burt Reynolds, from 1958 to 2021, to find his roles, notes, and voice work in various genres and formats. The order of this Burt Reynolds movies list is often decided by how many votes they receive, so only his most highly rated movies will be at the top when sorted by popularity.Highest Grossing and Most Popular Burt Reynolds Films
Burt Reynolds's highest grossing movies were indeed huge hits at the box office throughout the '70s and '80s. His films often topped the release calendar top 250 movies and most popular movies browse lists of their time. While specific adjusted domestic box office grosses using current movie ticket cost (in millions) would require extensive external data, it's clear that films like "Smokey and the Bandit," "The Longest Yard," and "The Cannonball Run" were financial powerhouses. These films resonated with audiences not just for their action or comedy, but for Reynolds's magnetic screen presence. He had a unique ability to connect with viewers, making them feel like they were in on the joke or part of the adventure. This personal connection contributed significantly to his films' commercial success and his enduring popularity. The way his movies were received by critics and audiences often varied, but his box office appeal was undeniable for a significant period.The Final Curtain: Burt Reynolds' Last Roles
Even in his later years, Burt Reynolds continued to act, demonstrating a lifelong passion for his craft. His final film role was in "Defining Moments," a 2021 Canadian comedy film written and directed by Stephen Wallis. This posthumous release served as a poignant farewell from a legend who had dedicated his life to entertainment. His willingness to take on diverse roles, even as his health declined, speaks volumes about his commitment. From the narrator voice in "Apple of My Eye" (2017) to his appearance in "A Magic Christmas" (2014) and "Not Another Not Another Movie" (2011), Reynolds remained active, gracing the screen with his presence until the very end. These later films, while perhaps not reaching the commercial heights of his 70s blockbusters, allowed fans to continue enjoying his unique talent and charisma.Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds was a true Hollywood icon, a leading man who defied easy categorization. His extensive filmography, spanning over 160 movies and numerous television appearances from 1958 to 2021, showcases a career filled with memorable performances, box office triumphs, and critical acclaim. From the intense drama of "Deliverance" to the rollicking fun of "Smokey and the Bandit" and the poignant depth of "Boogie Nights," the Burt Reynolds movies in order reveal a journey of evolution, resilience, and undeniable star power. He was a master of connecting with audiences, whether through a knowing wink, a daring stunt, or a deeply felt dramatic moment. His highest grossing movies were not just hits; they were cultural touchstones that defined an era of filmmaking. Burt Reynolds left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, and his legacy continues to inspire actors and entertain fans worldwide. What's your favorite Burt Reynolds movie? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive into his filmography, be sure to explore other articles on legendary actors and their iconic careers.
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