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Most cinephiles have watched at least one Michael Caine film in their lifetime, if not more. This is hardly surprising as Caine is one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood. Over the span of his illustrious career, the actor has continued to explore different genres. From drama to comedy, he has proved that he has the skills to bring any character alive on-screen, no matter how endearing or complex.
This is exactly why movie-goers around the world were deeply saddened when the 90-year-old veteran actor announced his retirement this month. The news came shortly after the release of the latest Michael Caine film, The Great Escaper.
The versatile actor will certainly be missed, but fans will still be able to remember and celebrate the actor through his past work. Caine leaves behind an impressive body of work, consisting of more than 100 films, that will continue to enthrall old as well as new fans.
The actor had a good track record of picking interesting scripts, but there are a few highly-acclaimed Michael Caine films that rank higher than others in terms of immersive storytelling and quality performances, which everyone should watch.
Alfie, Educating Rita, and 8 other iconic Michael Caine films that fans will remember him by
1) Alfie (1966)
This is one of the first Michael Caine films that helped put the actor on the map. He plays the central protagonist named Alfie, a charming ladies' man who is perpetually chasing his own enjoyment and fun. But, after a turn of events, he is forced to rethink his priorities. Witty and entertaining, this movie, directed by Lewis Gilbert, has all the ingredients to keep the audience hooked, including a stellar performance by Caine.
2) Sleuth (1972)
This is the last movie to be directed by filmmaker Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Caine plays the role of Milo, who is having an affair with the wife of a successful crime fiction author named Andrew Wyke (Laurence Olivier). The two men stage a robbery, but things take a sharp dive when their personal differences clash. Beautifully written dialogue and the palpable tension between the two lead characters make this Michael Caine film extremely enjoyable to watch.
3) The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
Even at the onset of this film, fans knew that the pairing of Michael Caine and Sean Connery on-screen would lead to something spectacular, and the actors surely did not disappoint. The story focuses on two rogue ex-soldiers who set out on an adventurous journey, armed with a cunning plan to rule a kingdom. Directed by John Huston, this Michael Caine film is both exciting and entertaining. Also, the chemistry between the lead actors is top-notch, which helps elevate the narrative.
4) Educating Rita (1983)
Directed by Lewis Gilbert, this Michael Caine film is both hilarious and uplifting. It also helped boost Julie Walters' acting career. In the film, Walters plays a married hairdresser who wants more from her life. She signs up for an Open University course, but her tutor is Frank Bryant (Caine), who seems more interested in drowning his miseries in alcohol. Things start to change as they spend more time together, and both learn valuable lessons from each other.
Intelligent, hopeful, and funny, this film is perfect for cinephiles who enjoy heartfelt stories that are relatable and inspiring.
5) Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
Director Woody Allen is known for his striking portrayal of complex human relationships. This Michael Caine film is no different. The story revolves around three sisters - Hannah (Mia Farrow), Lee (Barbara Hershey), and Holly (Dianne Wiest). Their bonds are strained when Hannah's husband, Elliot (Caine), has an affair with Lee.
This film is a must-watch, not only because of the memorable performances but also for the way it explores aspects related to relationships, such as attraction, loyalty, conflicted feelings, and more.
6) The Quiet American (2002)
This Michael Caine film is based on a famous book written by Graham Greene. Caine plays the role of an English journalist named Thomas Fowler, who is fascinated with a young Vietnamese woman. But when she starts to bond with the charming young American, Alden Pyle (Brendan Fraser), jealousy gets the better of him. What makes this Michael Caine film really engaging is how it puts focus on the central characters while also exploring what led to the Vietnam War.
7) Children of Men (2006)
Another adaptation, this Michael Caine film directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is based on a book by P. D. James. The story takes place in the future, where the world has descended into chaos after years of human infertility. But when one woman gets miraculously pregnant, Theo, a bureaucrat played by Clive Owen, has to do everything it takes to keep her safe. Caine plays Jasper, Theo's friend, who is also his dealer.
Riveting and thrilling, this is a must-watch Michael Caine film for its well-written and thought-provoking narrative.
8) The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan helped reignite the interest in Batman movies by integrating darker elements into the storytelling. This movie, in particular, is one that DC fans hold dear due to the immersive dark narrative and Heath Ledger's stunning portrayal of one of DC's cruelest villains, the Joker.
Caine plays the role of Alfred, Bruce's butler, who is more like a father figure to him. His calm and rational personality helps keep Bruce sane and grounded. Even fans who might not be the biggest superhero fans will enjoy this beautifully-made Michael Caine film.
9) Interstellar (2014)
Another cinematic gem by Christopher Nolan tells the story of ex-NASA pilot Joseph Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), who is tasked with a mission to find an alternative planet for humans after Earth is deemed uninhabitable.
Caine dons the role of Professor John Brand, a high-ranking NASA scientist. His is an important role as he is not only the father of Dr. Amelia Brand (Anne Hathaway), but he is also Cooper's mentor. Striking cinematography, engaging narrative, and memorable performances are just some of the reasons you should watch this Michael Caine film.
10) Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
There is something very interesting about secret organizations, and this Michael Caine film definitely uses that to its advantage. The story revolves around a secret spy organization. Harry Hart, played by Colin Firth, recruits an unlikely candidate to join the Kingsman. While the world sees Gary "Eggsy" Unwin's (Taron Egerton) as a problem, Hart sees potential.
Caine plays Chester King, aka Arthur, who used to head Kingsman before betraying the organization. Caine brought a polished yet mysterious charisma to the character that was appreciated by fans of the film series.
There is no dearth of good Michael Caine films that fans can watch to celebrate the actor's long and successful career, but these titles, in particular, show him as his finest.
