Benedict Cumberbatch stands out as one of the preeminent actors of our time. Famously known for his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and his captivating portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, Cumberbatch boasts an extensive filmography filled with critically acclaimed works. If you’re intrigued by his talent, here’s a look at some of the best movies and TV shows featuring Benedict Cumberbatch.
1. Avengers: Infinity War
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 8.4/85%
- Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
- Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle, Tom Holland, Chadwick Boseman, Paul Bettany, Elizabeth Olsen, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Danai Gurira, Letitia Wright, Dave Bautista, Zoe Saldaña, Josh Brolin, Chris Pratt
- Runtime: 149 minutes
The epic ensemble of superheroes in Avengers: Infinity War is unmatched, creating a landmark in the superhero film genre. This film introduced us to Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange, displaying his character’s evolution from arrogance to selflessness. It’s this journey that added a profound emotional element to the storyline, particularly as Strange teams up with iconic heroes like Iron Man and Captain America to combat the formidable Thanos.
2. The Imitation Game
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 8/90%
- Release Date: November 14, 2014
- Director: Morten Tyldum
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, Rory Kinnear, Charles Dance, Mark Strong
- Runtime: 115 minutes
The Imitation Game sees Cumberbatch shine as Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician determined to crack the Nazi Enigma code. His portrayal captures Turing’s emotional depth and intellectual prowess, earning him an Academy Award nomination. This role showcases how Cumberbatch can convey both complexity and fragility, making Turing an unforgettable character.
3. Doctor Strange
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.5/89%
- Release Date: November 4, 2016
- Director: Scott Derrickson
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Michael Stuhlbarg, Benjamin Bratt, Scott Adkins, Mads Mikkelsen, Tilda Swinton
- Runtime: 115 minutes
Doctor Strange brings a fresh narrative as Cumberbatch transitions from an arrogant neurosurgeon to the Mystic Arts’ protector. The film’s imaginative visual effects and exploration of magic set a new standard for superhero films, making it a standout in the MCU.
4. The Power of The Dog
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.8/94%
- Release Date: November 4, 2021
- Director: Jane Campion
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee
- Runtime: 126 minutes
If you haven’t seen The Power of The Dog, you’re missing a pivotal work. This film masterfully unfolds its story, drawing you in with Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Phil Burbank, a complex rancher, showcasing his range as an actor.
5. 12 Years a Slave
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.8/94%
- Release Date: November 8, 2013
- Director: Steve McQueen
- Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Lupita Nyong’o, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, Alfre Woodard
- Runtime: 134 minutes
12 Years a Slave astounded audiences with its raw portrayal of the brutal realities of slavery. Cumberbatch plays William Ford, a complex character whose performance adds depth to this critically acclaimed piece.
6. To the Ends Of the Earth
- IMDb: 7.1
- Release Date: July 6, 2005- July 20, 2005
- Director: David Attwood
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Sam Neill, Jared Harris
- Episode Count: 3
This character-driven drama showcases Cumberbatch as a young aristocrat embarking on a transformative journey. To the Ends of the Earth not only highlights his acting skills but also earned him accolades for his compelling performance.
7. Eric
- IMDb/ Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.9/73%
- Release Date: May 30, 2024
- Director: Abi Morgan
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Gaby Hoffmann, McKinley Belcher III
- Episode Count: 6
Eric follows Vincent Anderson, who turns to his puppet creations in search of his missing son. Cumberbatch’s portrayal of this troubled character garnered significant attention and a fair share of mixed reviews.
8. Sherlock
- IMDb/ Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.9/73%
- Release Date: July 25, 2010- January 15, 2017
- Director: Mark Gatiss, Steven Moffat
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman
- Episode Count: 4 Seasons + 1 Special; 13 Episodes
Cumberbatch’s take on the iconic detective in Sherlock redefined the character for modern audiences. His relationship with Dr. John Watson, portrayed by Martin Freeman, added depth to the narrative, earning Cumberbatch multiple awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor.
9. Good Omens
- IMDb/ Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.9/73%
- Release Date: May 31, 2019- Present
- Director: Neil Gaiman
- Starring: Michael Sheen, David Tennant, Sam Taylor Buck, Jon Hamm
- Episode Count: 2 Seasons; 12 Episodes
Cumberbatch lends his voice to Satan in Good Omens, a delightful fantasy comedy series that explores the friendship between a demon and an angel. The imaginative storytelling and humor have won the hearts of many viewers.
10. Patrick Melrose
- IMDb/ Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 8/90%
- Release Date: May 12, 2018- June 9, 2018
- Director: Edward Berger
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Hugo Weaving
- Episode Count: 5
Patrick Melrose follows a man grappling with childhood trauma as he navigates his turbulent life. Cumberbatch’s performance is described as one of his best, capturing the chaos of the character’s existence.
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