Top 23 Ranked

The Definitive Ranking of Daniel Radcliffe Movies

From Young Wizard to Indie Icon

Explore the ultimate guide to Daniel Radcliffe's film career, featuring the Harry Potter series and his most daring independent film performances.

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About Daniel Radcliffe

Daniel Radcliffe

There is a peculiar kind of liberation that comes with being the face of the most successful cinematic franchise in history by the age of eleven. For most actors, such a monumental start would be a gilded cage, a legacy to be resented or outrun. For Daniel Radcliffe, it became a blank check for chaos. While the world watched him age from the wide eyed innocence of The Philosopher's Stone to the battle scarred intensity of Deathly Hallows Part 2, they were witnessing the birth of one of the most fearless, eccentric character actors of his generation. He did not just survive his childhood stardom; he weaponized the financial security it provided to pursue a career that defies every Hollywood convention of leading man behavior.

The transition began almost immediately after the wands were put away. Rather than pivoting to safe romantic comedies or gritty action reboots, he leaned into the macabre and the experimental. He anchored the gothic chills of The Woman in Black with a quiet, mourning gravity that signaled he was ready for adult stakes. Soon after, he immersed himself in the beat poetry era of Kill Your Darlings, proving his intellectual agility. This era marked the end of the boy wizard and the beginning of a man deeply committed to the physical and psychological labor of the craft. Whether he was navigating the verbal sparring of the charming indie rom-com What If or going undercover as a white supremacist in the claustrophobic thriller Imperium, his hunger for range was palpable.

What makes him so magnetic to modern audiences is a total lack of vanity. He seems to possess a magnetic pull toward the bizarre, most famously embodied by his turn as a flatulent corpse in Swiss Army Man. It is a role that would have terrified a less secure performer, yet he leaned into the absurdity with such sincerity that it became a poignant meditation on friendship. This willingness to embrace the strange reached a fever pitch in Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, where he donned the accordion and mustache to deliver an award winning performance that was as much a satire of celebrity biopics as it was a tribute to a comedy icon. He is an actor who treats the surreal with the same reverence most reservists would give a Shakespearean tragedy.

The cultural impact of his career lies in this refusal to be a museum piece. When he returned for the Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts, the affection from the public was rooted in more than just nostalgia. There is a collective respect for how he has curated his life in the spotlight, maintaining a grounded, self deprecating wit that feels entirely authentic in an era of curated personas. He has navigated the treacherous waters of global fame without losing his soul or his curiosity. Today, he represents a unique archetype in the industry: the blockbuster veteran who operates with the soul of an underground theater kid. Audiences don't just show up to see what he does next; they show up to see how far he is willing to go to surprise himself. He has successfully traded the lightning bolt scar for a reputation as one of the most daring and unpredictable forces in contemporary film.

The Complete Rankings

Based on the top picks in drafts on SnakeDrafts

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23
Daniel Radcliffe in Victor Frankenstein (2015)
Victor Frankenstein
2015

Eccentric scientist Victor Von Frankenstein creates a grotesque creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment.

Drama
Science Fiction
1h 50m
Paul McGuigan
James McAvoy, Daniel Radcliffe, Jessica Brown Findlay, Andrew Scott
22
Daniel Radcliffe in The Tailor of Panama (2001)
The Tailor of Panama
2001

A British spy is banished to Panama after having an affair with an ambassador's mistress. Once there he makes connection with a local tailor with a nefarious past and connections to all of the top political and gangster figures in Panama. The tailor also has a wife, who works for the Panamanian president and a huge debt. The mission is to learn what the President intends to do with the Canal.

Drama
Thriller
1h 49m
John Boorman
21
Daniel Radcliffe in Now You See Me 2 (2016)
Now You See Me 2
2016

One year after outwitting the FBI and winning the public’s adulation with their mind-bending spectacles, the Four Horsemen resurface only to find themselves face to face with a new enemy who enlists them to pull off their most dangerous heist yet.

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20
Daniel Radcliffe in The Lost City (2022)
The Lost City
2022

Reclusive author Loretta Sage writes about exotic places in her popular adventure novels that feature a handsome cover model named Alan. While on tour promoting her new book with Alan, Loretta gets kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire who hopes she can lead him to the ancient city's lost treasure that featured in her latest story. Alan, determined to prove he can be a hero in real life and not just on the pages of her books, sets off to rescue her.

Action
Adventure
1h 52m
Aaron Nee
Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, Daniel Radcliffe, Da'Vine Joy Randolph
19
Daniel Radcliffe in Guns Akimbo (2020)
Guns Akimbo
2020

An ordinary guy suddenly finds himself forced to fight a gladiator-like battle for a dark website that streams the violence for viewers. In order to survive and rescue his kidnapped ex-girlfriend, he must battle Nix, a heavily armed and much more experienced fighter.

Action
Comedy
1h 38m
Jason Lei Howden
Daniel Radcliffe, Samara Weaving, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Ned Dennehy
18
Daniel Radcliffe in Jungle (2017)
Jungle
2017

In 1981, an enthusiastic young adventurer follows his dreams into the Bolivian Amazon jungle with two friends and a guide with a mysterious past. Their journey quickly turns into a terrifying ordeal as the darkest elements of human nature and the deadliest threats of the wilderness lead to an all-out fight for survival.

Adventure
Drama
1h 55m
Greg McLean
Daniel Radcliffe, Alex Russell, Thomas Kretschmann, Joel Jackson
17
Daniel Radcliffe in Horns (2013)
Horns
2013

In the aftermath of his girlfriend's mysterious death, a young man awakens to strange horns sprouting from his temples.

Drama
Fantasy
2h 0m
Alexandre Aja
Daniel Radcliffe, Juno Temple, Max Minghella, Joe Anderson
16
Daniel Radcliffe in Escape from Pretoria (2020)
Escape from Pretoria
2020

South Africa, 1978. Tim Jenkin and Stephen Lee, two white political activists from the African National Congress imprisoned by the apartheid regime, put a plan in motion to escape from the infamous Pretoria Prison.

Drama
History
1h 42m
Francis Annan
Daniel Radcliffe, Daniel Webber, Ian Hart, Mark Leonard Winter
15
Daniel Radcliffe in The Woman in Black (2012)
The Woman in Black
2012

The story follows a young lawyer, Arthur Kipps, who is ordered to travel to a remote village and sort out a recently deceased client’s papers. As he works alone in the client’s isolated house, Kipps begins to uncover tragic secrets, his unease growing when he glimpses a mysterious woman dressed only in black. Receiving only silence from the locals, Kipps is forced to uncover the true identity of the Woman in Black on his own, leading to a desperate race against time when he discovers her true identity.

Drama
Horror
1h 35m
James Watkins
Daniel Radcliffe, Ciarán Hinds, Janet McTeer, Liz White
14
Daniel Radcliffe in What If (2013)
What If
2013

Medical-school dropout Wallace has been repeatedly burned by bad relationships. So while everyone around him, including his roommate Allan, seems to be finding the perfect partner, Wallace decides to put his love life on hold. It is then that he meets Chantry, an animator who lives with her longtime boyfriend Ben. Wallace and Chantry form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. Still, there is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?

Drama
Comedy
1h 38m
Michael Dowse
Daniel Radcliffe, Zoe Kazan, Megan Park, Adam Driver
13
Daniel Radcliffe in Imperium (2016)
Imperium
2016

Nate Foster, a young, idealistic FBI agent, goes undercover to take down a radical white supremacy terrorist group. The bright up-and-coming analyst must confront the challenge of sticking to a new identity while maintaining his real principles as he navigates the dangerous underworld of white supremacy. Inspired by real events.

Crime
Drama
1h 49m
Daniel Ragussis
Daniel Radcliffe, Toni Collette, Tracy Letts, Sam Trammell
12
Daniel Radcliffe in Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts (2022)
Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts
2022

An enchanting making-of story told through all-new in-depth interviews and cast conversations, inviting fans on a magical first-person journey through one of the most beloved film franchises of all time.

Documentary
1h 43m
Joe Pearlman
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Bonnie Wright
11
Daniel Radcliffe in Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022)
Weird: The Al Yankovic Story
2022

Exploring every facet of ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic’s life, from his meteoric rise to fame with early hits like ‘Eat It’ and ‘Like a Surgeon’ to his torrid celebrity love affairs and famously depraved lifestyle, this biopic takes audiences on a truly unbelievable journey through Yankovic’s life and career, from gifted child prodigy to the greatest musical legend of all time.

Music
Comedy
1h 48m
Eric Appel
Daniel Radcliffe, Evan Rachel Wood, Rainn Wilson, Toby Huss
10
Daniel Radcliffe in Kill Your Darlings (2013)
Kill Your Darlings
2013

A murder in 1944 draws together the great poets of the beat generation: Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac and William Burroughs.

Drama
Romance
1h 43m
John Krokidas
Daniel Radcliffe, Dane DeHaan, Michael C. Hall, Jack Huston
Why it ranks

Radcliffe disappears into the intellectual fervor of Allen Ginsberg, proving his mettle in a dialogue heavy period piece. He navigates the complexities of queer desire and artistic awakening with a refined sensitivity that solidified his status as a serious dramatic force.

9
Daniel Radcliffe in Swiss Army Man (2016)
Swiss Army Man
2016

Alone on a tiny deserted island, Hank has given up all hope of ever making it home again. But one day everything changes when a dead body washes ashore, and he soon realizes it may be his last opportunity to escape certain death. Armed with his new “friend” and an unusual bag of tricks, the duo go on an epic adventure to bring Hank back to the woman of his dreams.

Comedy
Drama
1h 37m
Daniel Kwan
Paul Dano, Daniel Radcliffe, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Antonia Ribero
Why it ranks

By playing a flatulent corpse, Radcliffe provides a masterclass in physical comedy and absurdist commitment. This fearless, bizarre role successfully dismantled his wizarding image and signaled his bold new trajectory toward indie experimentation.

8

Returning for his fifth year at Hogwarts, Harry is stunned to find that his warnings about the return of Lord Voldemort have been ignored. Left with no choice, Harry takes matters into his own hands, training a small group of motivated students to defend themselves against the Dark Arts.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 18m
David Yates
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Imelda Staunton
Why it ranks

Portraying a character alienated by his peers, Radcliffe captures the hot blooded righteousness of a young man fighting an establishment that refuses to listen. It is a loud, jagged performance that highlights his ability to personify righteous indignation.

7

As Lord Voldemort tightens his grip on both the Muggle and wizarding worlds, Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven. Harry suspects perils may even lie within the castle, but Dumbledore is more intent upon preparing him for the final battle fast approaching. Together they work to find the key to unlock Voldemorts defenses and to this end, Dumbledore recruits his old friend and colleague Horace Slughorn, whom he believes holds crucial information. Even as the decisive showdown looms, romance blossoms for Harry, Ron, Hermione and their classmates. Love is in the air, but danger lies ahead and Hogwarts may never be the same again.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 33m
David Yates
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Jim Broadbent
Why it ranks

Radcliffe leans into the absurdity of the teenage experience, showing off a sophisticated dry wit that many critics previously underestimated. The performance highlights his range, specifically his talent for playing intoxication and comedic timing against a backdrop of impending doom.

6

Harry, Ron and Hermione walk away from their last year at Hogwarts to find and destroy the remaining Horcruxes, putting an end to Voldemort's bid for immortality. But with Harry's beloved Dumbledore dead and Voldemort's unscrupulous Death Eaters on the loose, the world is more dangerous than ever.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 26m
David Yates
Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Toby Jones
Why it ranks

Forced into a grueling three person character study, Radcliffe excels in capturing the psychological toll of isolation. This somber turn proves he can sustain narrative tension through subtle facial expressions and weary body language rather than just spectacle.

5
Daniel Radcliffe in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
2002

Cars fly, trees fight back, and a mysterious house-elf comes to warn Harry Potter at the start of his second year at Hogwarts. Adventure and danger await when bloody writing on a wall announces: The Chamber Of Secrets Has Been Opened. To save Hogwarts will require all of Harry, Ron and Hermione's magical abilities and courage.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 41m
Chris Columbus
Why it ranks

While still working within the confines of a storybook aesthetic, Radcliffe begins to refine his comedic timing and reactive acting. He anchors the intensifying peril with a steadying presence that survives the film's more whimsical detours.

4

When Harry Potter's name emerges from the Goblet of Fire, he becomes a competitor in a grueling battle for glory among three wizarding schools—the Triwizard Tournament. But since Harry never submitted his name for the Tournament, who did? Now Harry must confront a deadly dragon, fierce water demons and an enchanted maze only to find himself in the cruel grasp of He Who Must Not Be Named.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 37m
Mike Newell
Why it ranks

Tasked with depicting the awkward transition into adolescence, Radcliffe effectively balances hormonal frustration with the shock of newfound mortality. This installment marks his first successful foray into high stakes physical acting and genuine grief.

3
Daniel Radcliffe in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
2001

Harry Potter has lived under the stairs at his aunt and uncle's house his whole life. But on his 11th birthday, he learns he's a powerful wizard—with a place waiting for him at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As he learns to harness his newfound powers with the help of the school's kindly headmaster, Harry uncovers the truth about his parents' deaths—and about the villain who's to blame.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 32m
Chris Columbus
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Richard Harris
Why it ranks

The weight of a global phenomenon rested on an eleven year old's shoulders, yet Radcliffe managed the burden with an innate, quiet charisma. His ability to project instant vulnerability gave the entire franchise its essential human heartbeat.

2

Year three at Hogwarts means new fun and challenges as Harry learns the delicate art of approaching a Hippogriff, transforming shape-shifting Boggarts into hilarity and even turning back time. But the term also brings danger: soul-sucking Dementors hover over the school, an ally of the accursed He-Who-Cannot-Be-Named lurks within the castle walls, and fearsome wizard Sirius Black escapes Azkaban. And Harry will confront them all.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 21m
Alfonso Cuarón
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Robbie Coltrane
Why it ranks

Under Alfonso Cuaron's direction, Radcliffe first discovers the moody, angst ridden edges of his most famous persona. It is the pivotal moment where his acting transitions from wide eyed wonder to a sophisticated exploration of paternal longing and internal darkness.

1

Harry, Ron and Hermione continue their quest to vanquish the evil Voldemort once and for all. Just as things begin to look hopeless for the young wizards, Harry discovers a trio of magical objects that endow him with powers to rival Voldemort's formidable skills.

Adventure
Fantasy
2h 10m
David Yates
Why it ranks

Radcliffe sheds every lingering trace of child stardom to carry the heavy emotional carnage of a decade long journey. This finale serves as his definitive transformation into a commanding dramatic lead capable of anchoring a massive blockbuster through sheer grit.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this list and SnakeDrafts

'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' is ranked highest due to its critical acclaim and role as the epic conclusion to the Harry Potter saga, showcasing Daniel Radcliffe's most intense and matured performance as Harry Potter.

In 'Swiss Army Man,' Radcliffe takes on a highly unconventional and surreal role, blending comedy, drama, and fantasy, which marks a significant departure from his traditional heroic character in the Harry Potter series.

The Harry Potter series dominates the top rankings because it not only launched Radcliffe's career but also allowed him to develop his acting over a decade in a globally beloved franchise, demonstrating his range within the fantasy and adventure genres.

'Kill Your Darlings' stands out as it showcases Radcliffe's ability to portray complex, real-life characters, emphasizing his transition into serious drama and thriller genres beyond his fantasy roots.

'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story' reflects Radcliffe's willingness to embrace quirky, comedic roles that contrast his serious and fantasy-driven parts, highlighting his versatility and desire to take creative risks.

Notably absent are some of Radcliffe's other indie and theatrical performances like 'Horns' and 'Now You See Me 2,' which, while popular, didn't rank as high possibly due to less critical acclaim or cultural impact compared to the listed titles.

Post-Harry Potter, Radcliffe's selection of eclectic films like 'Imperium,' 'What If,' and 'Swiss Army Man' demonstrates his commitment to challenging himself and breaking away from typecasting, which has garnered him respect across various film genres.

'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts' is included as it celebrates Radcliffe's enduring legacy within the franchise, offering fans nostalgic insights and underscoring his lasting impact on the Harry Potter phenomenon.
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