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Over more than six decades, Robert Duvall established himself as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, known for his intense performances, versatility, and commanding screen presence. His career includes more than 100 films across cinema and television, as well as work as a director and producer-giving him one of the most extensive filmographies among Academy Award-winning actors.
Selection of His Best Movies
Below is a curated list of some of his most iconic performances, frequently cited by critics, film historians, and industry rankings:
1. The Godfather (1972)
He portrayed Tom Hagen, the Corleone family’s consigliere. His restrained, strategic performance was essential to the film’s dramatic tone.
2. Apocalypse Now (1979)
As Lieutenant Colonel Kilgore, he delivered one of the most memorable characters in war-film history, famous for the line about loving the smell of napalm in the morning.
3. Tender Mercies (1983)
This drama earned him his only Academy Award thanks to his intimate portrayal of a country singer seeking redemption.
4. The Apostle (1997)
In addition to starring in it, he wrote and directed the film. Critics consider it one of his most personal and spiritual works.
5. True Grit (2010)
In this remake of the classic western, Duvall stood out as the tough Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, proving his screen presence remained powerful decades into his career.
6. The Conversation (1974)
In Francis Ford Coppola’s surveillance thriller, Duvall plays a mysterious corporate figure whose brief appearance adds chilling authority to the film’s paranoid atmosphere.
7. Network (1976)
Though part of an ensemble, his role as a calculating television executive helped sharpen the film’s biting critique of media sensationalism.
8. The Great Santini (1979)
Duvall earned an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of a strict Marine pilot and domineering father, one of his most psychologically layered performances.
9. Lonesome Dove (1989)
In this acclaimed Western miniseries, he played former Texas Ranger Augustus McCrae, a role widely considered one of the finest television performances ever.
10. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
This landmark literary adaptation marked Robert Duvall’s film debut, in which he played the reclusive Boo Radley. Despite having no dialogue, his haunting screen presence made a lasting impression and immediately signaled his potential as a serious dramatic actor.
How Many Movies Did Robert Duvall Make?
- More than 100 films acted in
- Over 170 total screen credits (including series, miniseries, and TV specials)
- Active career span: 1959-2020s
His artistic longevity is one of the qualities most often highlighted by film analysts: few actors have maintained critical relevance and steady work for so long.
Most Important Awards He Won
Throughout his career, Duvall accumulated some of the industry’s most prestigious honors:
- 1 Academy Award – Best Actor (Tender Mercies, 1984 ceremony)
- 4 Golden Globes – film and television
- 1 BAFTA Award – film acting
- 2 Emmy Awards – television productions
He also received multiple lifetime-achievement honors recognizing his contribution to American cinema.
