From rising teen heartthrob to action star and dramatic lead, Chris O’Donnell’s filmography is full of memorable performances.
Chris O’Donnell made a name for himself in the 1990s with a string of high-profile roles that showcased both his boyish charm and dramatic range. While many now know him as G. Callen from NCIS: Los Angeles, his movie career includes some beloved classics and hidden gems. Here are the best Chris O’Donnell films that highlight his talent and enduring appeal:
1. Scent of a Woman (1992)
Role: Charlie Simms
Why It’s Great: O’Donnell held his own alongside Al Pacino in this acclaimed drama. His portrayal of a scholarship student torn between loyalty and ambition earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Pacino won an Oscar, but O’Donnell’s grounded performance was essential to the film’s emotional core.
2. Circle of Friends (1995)
Role: Jack Foley
Why It’s Great: This romantic drama set in 1950s Ireland is a fan favorite for its tenderness and charm. O’Donnell’s chemistry with Minnie Driver helped make this coming-of-age story deeply relatable and quietly powerful.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes (1991)
Role: Buddy Threadgoode
Why It’s Great: Though his screen time is brief, O’Donnell’s tragic and tender performance as the charming Buddy sets the emotional tone for the entire film. His character’s fate ripples through generations in this moving Southern tale.
4. Batman Forever (1995) & Batman & Robin (1997)
Role: Dick Grayson / Robin
Why It’s Great: As Robin, O’Donnell became a pop culture icon. While Batman & Robin is often cited as a campy misfire, Batman Forever was a huge box office success and introduced him to global audiences. His performance brought youthful energy to the caped crusaders.
5. School Ties (1992)
Role: Chris Reese
Why It’s Great: This powerful drama about anti-Semitism and privilege at a prep school featured a young cast of future stars, including Brendan Fraser and Matt Damon. O’Donnell gave a nuanced performance as a conflicted friend caught in the moral crossfire.
6. Men Don’t Leave (1990)
Role: Chris Macauley
Why It’s Great: In his feature film debut, O’Donnell starred opposite Jessica Lange in a touching story about a family grappling with grief. His breakout performance signaled the arrival of a serious young actor with depth beyond his years.
7. Vertical Limit (2000)
Role: Peter Garrett
Why It’s Great: This high-stakes mountain climbing thriller showed O’Donnell as a full-fledged action star. His intense performance, combined with harrowing stunts and emotional stakes, made this an exciting early-2000s adventure hit.
8. The Bachelor (1999)
Role: Jimmie Shannon
Why It’s Great: A lighter entry in his filmography, this romantic comedy had O’Donnell racing against the clock to find a bride and inherit a fortune. While formulaic, the film is charming thanks to his earnest performance and some fun rom-com chaos.
9. The Chamber (1996)
Role: Adam Hall
Why It’s Great: O’Donnell took on a weighty role as a young lawyer fighting to save his white supremacist grandfather from death row. The film tackled tough themes and allowed O’Donnell to flex his dramatic muscle in a more adult role.
Honorable Mentions:
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Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (2008) – A wholesome family film where O’Donnell plays a warm, Depression-era father.
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Kinsey (2004) – A small but notable role in this biographical drama about sex researcher Alfred Kinsey.
Final Word:
Chris O’Donnell’s film career is a testament to his versatility — from romantic leads to superheroes and serious dramatic roles. Whether he was melting hearts in Circle of Friends or scaling mountains in Vertical Limit, O’Donnell brought sincerity and heart to every character he played.
Which of his movies is your favorite?
