Cusack is one of the few actors of his generation who was able to make the transition from teen actor into serious actor, and still be likable and easy to identify with. He started by co-starring with the Brat Packers in movies like “Sixteen Candles,” “Class,” and “Grandview U.S.A,” but thankfully moved on. Let’s hope there aren’t too many more “Must Love Dogs” or “Serendipity”‘s on the way. Here’s our lists of favorite Cusack films from a varied career.
Eric’s List
“Being John Malkovich” (1999) : Cusack doesn’t get enough credit for why this movie is so good. Just cuz Cameron Diaz went and “uglied up” doesn’t mean Cusack didn’t carry the entire film and lead us capably through the really weird bits.
“The Grifters” (1990) : Roy Dillon is one of the most heartbreaking characters Cusack has created, and the Stephen Frears-directed movie is an overlooked, twisted little gem. Like Catherine Keener in “Malkovich,” both Angelica Huston and Annette Bening get Oscar nods while Cusack is ignored. It’s a damn shame.
“Say Anything” (1989) : When people think of Cusack, they think of Lloyd Dobler. Sure, that’s partially because Cameron Crowe’s script is charming as hell, but Cusack is so natural in the role that he just inhabits Lloyd completely.
“High Fidelity” (2000) : Frears directed this one as well, and Cusack and his buddies adapted Nick Hornby’s British novel into a hilarious movie that deals honestly with some hard truths about relationships.
“Bullets Over Broadway” (1994) : Cusack is one of the only actors who appeared as the “Woody Allen character” in a Woody Allen movie without doing an impression. More supporting actress nominations here, while Cusack was ignored again. Dianne Weist even won hers for this, but the fact that Jennifer Tilly has been nominated and Cusack never has is chilling.
“The Thin Red Line” (1998) : Terence Malick’s poetic (translation: slow) World War II drama featuring Cusack in a different kind of role.
“Eight Men Out” (1988) : Cusack stars as Buck Weaver in this sad true story, superbly acted and directed John Sayles.
“Better Off Dead” (1985) : A young Cusack as everykid teenager Lane Meyer in this oft-quoted cult classic, directed by “Savage” Steve Holland.
“True Colors” (1991) : Cusack and James Spader learn of the politics of betrayal in this fine, overlooked drama.
“The Sure Thing (1985) : A charming romantic comedy from director Rob Reiner where Cusack falls for Daphne Zuniga on his way to meet Nicolette Sheridan (from “Desperate Housewives”). And, this movie marks the first time he worked with longtime friend Tim Robbins! Weird.
J.D.’s List
“Say Anything” (1989) : Cameron Crowe is a genius and Cusack makes this 80’s classic what it is.
“High Fidelity” (2000) : While I agree the Nick Hornby novel is better than the film, the film version has elements the book doesn’t–namely Cusack and a stellar cast of supporting actors.
“Eight Men Out” (1988) : One of my all time favorite sports movies. Along with John Mahoney, Cusack stands out in one of the great baseball stories told on film.
“Better off Dead” (1985) : “I want my 2 dollars!” Some of the best bad 80’s film-making.
The Grifters (1990) : Annette Benning and Angelica Huston star in this off-beat drama. Cusack proves he can do darker work and still bring the charm we find so endearing.
“One Crazy Summer” (1986) : Bobcat Goldthwait, Demi Moore, that guy from Animal House and the Twisted Sister videos, and you want to know why this movie kicks ass?…oh yeah, Cusack’s in this one too.
“The Cradle Will Rock” (1999) Cusack is excellent in this ensemble piece directed by Tim Robbins.
“Grosse Point Blank” (1997) : Despite a valiant attempt by Minnie Driver to annoy me out of enjoying this one, Cusack gives another great performance and the story is has some brilliance around the edges.
“Being John Malkovich” (1999) : While the script is missing the humanity and warmth of writer Charlie Kaufman’s later work, nothing like this script and film had been seen before. Cusack is great and again does good stuff against type.
“Identity” : Cusack goes against type in this marginal thriller, I liked the movie mostly because of Cusack and Ray Liotta.
I don’t see ‘Fat Man And Little Boy’on the list.