Every Kevin Costner Movie, Ranked Worst To Best

As one of the elite few movie stars in history, Kevin Costnerhas been able to have an impact on the cinema-sphere in every decade he’s been active. His first credit came in 1981, and his work continued to build steadily over time. Kevin Costner’s career experienced the highest highs with box office smash hits, Academy Award wins, and critical acclaim, as well as some career lows that would have been impossible to recover from even for many great actors.

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Other than his undisputed talent and drive, Kevin Costner has a rare type of charm that appeals to all audiences. His performances evoke feelings of strength, vulnerability, safety, and thrills in equal measure, commanding the screen at every turn. He’s been a leading man, a great supporting character, a legacy cameo star, and even a background actor. His list of credits is long, covering multiple genres, and varying levels of quality, but whenever Kevin Coster is involved, there’s a level of class that’s undeniable.

51 Sizzle Beach U.S.A. (1981)

Also Known As Malibu Hot Summer

Malibu Hot Summer

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Costner’s earliest film credit, this silly, raunchy comedy, wasn’t received well by critics or audiences at the time of its initial release (or subsequent 1986 re-release). The actor tried to buy the rights to the film later in his career, as he felt embarrassed about it, but was denied. Few people remember this rare misstep, and with a 2.7 IMDb rating, that’s probably for the best.

50 Night Shift (1982)

Second Ever Movie Credit

Night Shift - Poster - Group of people inside car

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16 8.6/10 Night Shift R

Night Shift is a comedy film directed by Ron Howard, featuring Henry Winkler and Michael Keaton in leading roles. The story follows an uptight morgue worker whose dull life takes an unexpected turn when he partners with a free-spirited new colleague to operate a nighttime prostitution ring out of the morgue. The film, noted for its humorous take on unconventional entrepreneurship, marked a significant departure from mainstream themes in early 1980s cinema.

Director Ron Howard Release Date July 30, 1982 Cast Henry Winkler , Michael Keaton , Shelley Long , Gina Hecht , Pat Corley , Bobby Di Cicco , Nita Talbot , Basil Hoffman , Kevin Costner Runtime 106 Minutes

This screwball comedy boasts an impressive lead cast that includes Michael Keaton, Henry Winkler, and Shelley Long. It was also directed by Ron Howard, and was moderately successful at the time, with the three leads being praised for their chemistry. Kevin Costner played Frat Boy #1, so while not a notable role, he was on his way to building a solid list of credits.

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49 Shadows Run Black (1984)

The Film That Almost Never Was

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Shadows Run Black

Shadows Run Black is a crime thriller centered on a detective investigating a series of murders by the serial killer “The Black Angel.” As the case unfolds, the detective uncovers a pattern in the killings, suggesting they may not be random, intensifying the mystery behind the murderer’s identity.

Director Howard Heard Release Date January 1, 1984 Cast William J. Kulzer , Elizabeth Trosper , Shea Porter , George Engelson , Dianne Hinkler , Kevin Costner , Terry Congie , Barbara Peckinpaugh , Rhonda Gray , Hank Robinson , Brianne Siddall Runtime 88 minutes

This project was shelved for a few years after being made, but due to Costner’s rising star power, the film was finally released. Poorly received and poorly performing financially, this erotic thriller features the actor in a smaller supporting role of the main suspect. It has a 3.1 IMDb rating and 12% on Rotten Tomatoes.

48 Chasing Dreams (1982)

His First Baseball Movie

Chasing Dreams (1989) - Poster

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Chasing Dreams (1989) PG

A young man is stagnating in his family, farm and school life, but after his baseball coach convinces him to start playing, he finds some comfort in the sport and ends up excelling at it, completely changing his outlook on life.

Director Therese Conte , Sean Roche Cast David G. Brown , John Fife , Jim Shane , Claudia Carroll , Matt Clark , Cecilea Bennett , Kelly McCarthy , Lisa Kingston , Don Margolin , Marc Brandes , Dan Waldman , Henry Dunn , Sean Collins , Ken Straus , Terence O’Malley , Arthur Tonna Jr. , David D’Arnal , David Christopher , Elliot Tonna , Kevin Costner , Martin Katz , Brian Bird , Charles Craig , Jim Birge , Jan Rabson , Joey Benson , Patrick Cameron , Doug Cronin , Marilyn Korones , Janet Levy , Chuck Himber , Michael Downing , Simon Barron , Robert Morrison Runtime 94 Minutes Expand

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Kevin Costner is synonymous with sports movies in many ways. Football, golf, and even cycling have all been topics of his movies, but baseball has arguably been the sport he’s been drawn to the most. This is the first foray onto the pitch, and it’s clear that the best is yet to come.

47 The Gunrunner (1989)

Another Delayed Release

kevin costner in a house in The Gunrunner

In this melodrama set in the 1920s, Costner gets to show his leading man credentials. The film was made years before its release and was another one to ride the actor’s successful coattails. It received mostly 1 or 2-star reviews and currently holds a 3.9 rating on IMDb and 25% on Rotten Tomatoes.

46 Stacy’s Knights (1983)

Also Known As The Touch

kevin costner walking with a woman in Stacy's Knights (1983)
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There’s a nostalgic charm to this blackjack-themed drama. It’s a pleasant watch if only to see Kevin Costner’s fresh-faced approach to acting, and many delightfully dated film-making techniques. The budget was as low as the expectations, but die-hard Costner fans would appreciate it.

45 The New Daughter (2009)

A Step Into A New Genre

The New Daughter - Poster

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The New Daughter PG-13

The New Daughter is a horror-thriller film directed by Luiso Berdejo. Kevin Costner stars as John James, a single father who relocates to rural South Carolina with his daughter Louisa and son Sam. As Louisa begins to exhibit increasingly strange behavior, John uncovers a series of haunting and mysterious events that suggest the presence of an ancient and malevolent force.

Director Luiso Berdejo Release Date October 7, 2010 Cast Kevin Costner , Ivana Baquero , Samantha Mathis , Gattlin Griffith , Erik Palladino , Noah Taylor Runtime 108 Minutes

A film that relied heavily on Costner’s star power for its otherwise lackluster marketing, this thriller has its moments. Co-starring Samantha Mathis, there are some genuine scares, and the acting is commendable. While it may not be his best material, the audiences can rely on the actor’s talent and experience to ground this otherwise wanting horror. It also massively underperformed at the box office.

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44 3000 Miles to Graceland (2001)

An Elvis Heist Movie

3000 Miles to Graceland (2001) - Poster - Kurt Russel & Kevin Costner

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3000 Miles to Graceland R

3000 Miles to Graceland is a crime thriller film that follows a group of ex-cons who plan to rob a casino during a Elvis Presley impersonator convention. Led by Murphy (Kevin Costner) and Hanson (Kurt Russell), the group’s heist goes awry, and they must evade the authorities and other criminals to get away with the loot.

Director Demian Lichtenstein Release Date February 23, 2001 Cast Kurt Russell , Kevin Costner , Courteney Cox , Christian Slater , Kevin Pollak Runtime 125 Minutes

The premise of this action caper is promising, and the impressive cast should add to its appeal, yet it was one of the most critically panned of Costner’s films. At the time, it received five Golden Razzie nominations, including Worst Picture, and nods for both Kevin Costner and Courtney Cox. It also failed to perform well at the box office. Through a nostalgic lens, some viewers might find the simple storyline and abundance of famous faces pleasant to watch.

43 The Criminal (2016)

Includes A Ryan Reynolds Cameo

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ScreenRant logo 4/10 2/10 Criminal R

Criminal is an action crime drama that follows a recently revived CIA agent who finds his memories implanted into the body of an unpredictable and dangerous convict. In a last-ditch effort to stop a diabolical plot, the dead CIA operative’s memories, secrets, and skills are implanted into the unsettling death-row inmate in the hopes that he will complete the operative’s mission.

Director Ariel Vromen Release Date April 7, 2016 Cast Ryan Reynolds , Michael Pitt , Natalie Burn , Gal Gadot , Alice Eve , Amaury Nolasco , Gary Oldman , Scott Adkins , Antje Traue , Kevin Costner , Tommy Lee Jones , Robert Davi Runtime 113minutes
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With a plot that involves “implanting a CIA agent’s memories into a criminal’s brain,” there are two ways this could go. Unfortunately, despite co-starring the likes of Gary Oldman, Tommy Lee Jones, and Gal Gadot, the film is very predictable and lacks true excitement. The reception was lukewarm, as was the box office performance, and the film failed to make an impact on the awards circuit.

42 American Flyers (1983)

An Almost-Thrilling Ride

American Flyers (1985) - poster

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3/10 American Flyers PG-13

American Flyers is a sports drama directed by John Badham, centering on two brothers, portrayed by Kevin Costner and David Grant, who reconnect and face personal challenges while competing in a grueling bicycle race known as “The Hell of the West.” The film blends elements of family, health struggles, and determination against the backdrop of competitive cycling.

Director John Badham Release Date August 16, 1985 Cast Kevin Costner , David Marshall Grant , Rae Dawn Chong , Alexandra Paul , Janice Rule , Luca Bercovici , Robert Townsend , John Amos , Doi Johnson , John Garber , Jennifer Grey , James Terry , Jessica Nelson Runtime 113 Minutes

One of Costner’s early pictures, this inspiring cycling drama has many heartwarming moments that make it stand the test of time. It centers around both sports and family drama, managing to engage viewers from both sides of the Venn diagram. With a rather warm critical reception, this was one of the films that showed the aspiring actor’s future potential.

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41 Dragonfly (2002)

Seeking His Lost Love Through His Patients’ Experiences

Dragonfly (2002) - Poster

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9/10 Dragonfly

Dragonfly is a supernatural thriller directed by Tom Shadyac, starring Kevin Costner as Dr. Joe Darrow, a grieving doctor who begins to experience eerie occurrences and messages from his deceased wife. As he unravels the mystery, he encounters a series of patients with near-death experiences, leading him on a spiritual journey that challenges his understanding of life and death.

Director Tom Shadyac Release Date February 22, 2002 Cast Kevin Costner , Susanna Thompson , Kathy Bates Runtime 104 minutes

A dark thriller filled to the brim with melancholia and longing, this film sticks firmly to one type of atmosphere. It’s not as nuanced as it would perhaps like to be, and despite co-starring Kathy Bates and Joe Morton, it failed to draw in audiences at the time of release.

Costner’s performance is solid and committed, and while the story might not be full of twists and surprises, it’s still compelling. Especially for fans of this particular genre.

40 Revenge (1990)

A Tale Of Passion And Retribution

kevin costner standing holding a cup in Revenge (1990)
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Co-starring Anthony Quinn and Madeleine Stowe, this action thriller was directed by Tony Scott. This is definitely a genre the actor feels comfortable with, as he gets to combine his innate heroism with dramatic ability. Though not a box office smash hit, or critics’ favorite, Revenge is one of those classic Kevin Costner films that viewers will want to return to.

39 Swing Vote (2008)

A Shot At Political Satire

Swing Vote

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Swing Vote PG-13

A teenager ahead of her time sets off a series of events that leads her alcoholic and irresponsible father to hold the outcome of the US presidential election in his hands. Everything depends on this man’s vote.

Director Joshua Michael Stern Release Date August 1, 2008 Cast Kevin Costner , Madeline Carroll , Paula Patton , Kelsey Grammer , Dennis Hopper , Nathan Lane Runtime 120 minutes

Kevin Costner’s charm and charisma are on full display in this comedy-drama. The supporting cast includes a slew of comedy greats, including Stanley Tucci and Kelsey Grammer, all of whom share some great scenes with the film’s lead.

Kevin Costner’s charm and charisma are on full display in this comedy-drama.

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It doesn’t pretend to be realistic, but the audience needs to suspend quite a lot of disbelief to follow the slightly clunky plot. While it flew slightly under the radar at the time of its release, it still has a lot to say, even today.

38 3 Days to Kill (2014)

Code Names Include Vivi Delay And The Wolf

3 Days to Kill Movie Poster Showing Kevin Costner Holding a Gun

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3 Days to Kill PG-13

3 Days to Kill is a 2014 action thriller directed by McG, featuring Kevin Costner as a CIA agent who is offered an experimental drug that could save his life in exchange for one last mission. Co-starring Amber Heard and Hailee Steinfeld, the film explores the challenges of balancing espionage and personal life while racing against time.

Director McG Release Date February 14, 2014 Cast Kevin Costner , Amber Heard , Hailee Steinfeld , Connie Nielsen , Tómas Lemarquis , Richard Sammel Runtime 117 minutes

This action-thriller may be filled with stereotypes and archetypes, but there are quite a few redeeming factors that will make viewers keen to join the ride. The cast includes Amber Heard, Hailee Steinfeld, and Connie Nielsen, who all play important parts in the story.

3 Days to Kill
scored just 27% on Rotten Tomatoes.

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The premise is a bit far-fetched, but somehow, it makes the viewer root for a positive outcome for the hero. While not an instant classic, the movie certainly has a core audience, especially considering the involvement of both McG and Luc Besson.

37 Fandango (1985)

Tentatively Produced By Steven Spielberg

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Fandango PG

Fandango, directed by Kevin Reynolds, follows five college friends from the University of Texas on a 1971 road trip across the Mexican border. Facing an uncertain future, including the Vietnam War, they embark on this journey as a final adventure before confronting life’s impending challenges.

Director Kevin Reynolds Release Date January 25, 1985 Cast Kevin Costner , Judd Nelson , Sam Robards , Chuck Bush , Brian Cesak , Marvin J. McIntyre , Suzy Amis , Glenne Headly Runtime 91 Minutes

This was the first of Costner’s many future starring roles. A road trip, coming-of-age comedy, it was by no means a big hit when it first came out. Quentin Tarantino admitted to being a huge fan, and he firmly represents the target demographic. Over the years, with Costner’s star rising, the film gained a new audience, and somewhat of a cult status.

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36 Rumor Has It… (2005)

Co-stars Shirley MacClaine And Mark Ruffalo

Rumor Has It... - Poster

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Rumor Has It… PG-13

Rumor Has It… stars Jennifer Aniston as Sarah Huttinger, a woman who discovers her family might have been the inspiration for the book and film The Graduate. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film follows Sarah as she navigates her complicated family history and her current relationship with her fiancé, played by Mark Ruffalo. Kevin Costner and Shirley MacLaine co-star in this romantic comedy-drama.

Director Rob Reiner Release Date December 25, 2005 Cast Jennifer Aniston , Kevin Costner , Shirley MacLaine , Mark Ruffalo , Richard Jenkins , Christopher McDonald Runtime 97 minutes

While predominately a vehicle for Jennifer Aniston’s romantic comedy dominance of the decade, Kevin Costner stands out in this sweet and simple movie. He plays Beau Burroughs, who is said to be the inspiration behind The Graduate.

T he premise is clever but devolves into a typically formulaic rom-com, complete with cheesy one-liners, and uninspired punchlines. It’s still a pleasant watch, and Costner delights as a potential love interest.

35 The Postman (1997)

Winner Of Five Razzie Awards

The Postman Poster

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9/10 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.

Director Kevin Costner Release Date December 25, 1997 Cast Kevin Costner , Will Patton , Tom Petty , Olivia Williams , Larenz Tate Runtime 177 Mins

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A film that was meant to be Costner’s next epic. He produced, directed, and starred in this confused dystopian tale of a lonely drifter who aims to spread hope across a post-apocalyptic world. The film’s quality might be slightly overshadowed by all the negativity it faced when it first came out.

imagery from Dances with Wolves and Robin Hood Prince of Thieves pulling back a bow and arrow Related Every Kevin Costner Movie From The 1990s, Ranked

Kevin Costner dominated the 1990s with some stellar performances in some iconic films like The Bodyguard and Dances With Wolves.

It’s long, slightly self-indulgent, and the story is rather pedestrian, but there are glimmers of good intentions. It’s worth seeing if only to see if it’s as bad as the critics thought in 1997.

34 Message in a Bottle (1999)

First Movie To Be Based On A Novel By Nicholas Sparks

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Message in a Bottle PG-13

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 Cast Kevin Costner , Robin Wright , John Savage , Illeana Douglas , Robbie Coltrane , Paul Newman Runtime 131 Minutes
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Kevin Costner brings a lot of his aura to any romantic lead he plays, which is evident in this emotional tearjerker. He has beautiful chemistry with Robin Wright, and the film is filled with picturesque shots that all add to the romance aspects.

As far as Nicholas Sparks adaptations go, this one is done very well and speaks to its more mature audience. While it might not have a particularly broad appeal, it offers plenty of drama to its intended demographic.

33 The Upside of Anger (2005)

Features A Great Supporting Cast Of Women

The Upside of Anger

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The Upside of Anger R

After her husband runs off with his secretary, Terry Wolfmeyer is left alone to look after her four daughters. Depressed, she starts drinking with her new friend, neighbor and former baseball player Denny. As they grow closer, and her daughters come to depend on him, Terry begins to question their relationship.

Director Mike Binder Release Date January 23, 2005 Cast Joan Allen , Kevin Costner , Erika Christensen , Keri Russell , Alicia Witt , Evan Rachel Wood Runtime 116 minutes

An unexpected departure for the actor, this clever drama focuses on more complex family matters. The script deals with grief, mistrust, and guilt in very nuanced ways, keeping the audience on its toes.

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Co-starring the likes of Joan Allen, Evan Rachel Wood, and Keri Russell, the film features quick-witted acting at its finest. It was well-received by critics and has amassed a base of dedicated viewers over the years.

32 Horizon: An American Saga (2024)

Chapter: 1 Isn’t The Whole Story

Horizon- An American Saga Poster

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ScreenRant logo 7/10 20 8.2/10 Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 R

Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 is a Western film directed by Kevin Costner, and sees him in the starring role. The film explores multiple generations surrounding the expansion of the American West before and after the Civil War. Horizon is the first in a series of four films, all of which were greenlit by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Director Kevin Costner Release Date June 28, 2024 Cast Kevin Costner , Sienna Miller , Sam Worthington , Luke Wilson , Giovanni Ribisi , Thomas Haden Church , Jena Malone , Abbey Lee , Michael Rooker , Danny Huston , Isabelle Fuhrman , Jeff Fahey , Will Patton , Tatanka Means , Ella Hunt , Jamie Campbell Bower Runtime 181 Minutes Expand

This ambitious undertaking is set to include four films in total, written, directed, and starring Kevin Costner. Tackling the history of the United States over 12 years, it’s a true passion project for the star, who has been working on it in one way or another since 1988. It’s clearly where he feels most confident and inspired, even though Horizon: Part 1 bombed at the box office.

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