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A wide range of Mel Gibson movies have been released from 1977 to the present day that cements the 69-year-old actor's illustrious career. From dystopian movies to romance comedies, Gibson has dabbled in a variety of genres over the years. However, he has had the most success with action-hero roles because he can perfectly capture the emotional dilemmas and complexities of the protagonists.
In all the Mel Gibson movies that have been released to date, the actor has continued to develop his acting skills. However, there are certain iconic roles in particular that will remain etched in the minds of movie lovers around the world.
This is the quintessential list of compelling Mel Gibson movies that will surely turn cinephiles into fans if they weren't already.
Disclaimer: This list contains information from various sources.
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Mad Max, Braveheart, and three other engaging Mel Gibson movies that will leave you thoroughly entertained
1) Mad Max (1979)
It wouldn't be an overstatement to say that the Mad Max saga wouldn't be possible without this 1979 Mel Gibson movie. Directed by George Miller, it stars Mel Gibson as "Mad" Max Rockatansky, a police officer who becomes a vigilante in a dystopian Australia that is witnessing a breakdown of civil order.
Even though this Mel Gibson movie was shot on a shoestring budget of A$400,000, it still left the audience mesmerized with impeccable chase sequences and adrenaline-pumping action scenes. Gibson does a great job of portraying Max's hardened personality, which is only natural after coming across all sorts of evil and violence on the job.
At its core, it is a simple revenge-driven narrative, but Miller could captivate the audience till the end with imaginative cinematography, impactful dialogue, and memorable characters. This Mel Gibson movie led to three equally exciting sequels and a spin-off, all of which were well-received by fans of the franchise.
Where to watch: Mad Max can be streamed on Prime Video and Apple TV+.
2) The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)
Adapted from Christopher Koch's novel, this Mel Gibson movie is set in Indonesia. Gibson plays Guy Hamilton, a foreign correspondent who arrives in Jakarta on an assignment. There, he meets the charismatic Jill Bryant, an assistant working at the British embassy, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver. When he comes across news of an attempted coup, he is forced to choose between love and his career.
This moving film by Peter Weir captures what life is like for expatriates and how it is difficult to fully align oneself with a foreign culture and beliefs. Gibson's portrayal of Guy is realistic and believable. He showcases the risks journalists must take on the field and raises important questions about the thin line dividing professional ethos and personal motivations.
Where to watch: The Year of Living Dangerously is available for streaming on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Roku.
3) Lethal Weapon (1987)
Fans of buddy-cop narratives cannot miss out on this action-packed Mel Gibson movie. Directed by Richard Donner, the film stars Gibson in the lead alongside Danny Glover. Both play LAPD detectives, but Gibson's Martin Riggs is compulsive and reckless, while Glover's Roger Murtaugh likes to follow the rules and steer clear of daredevil antics.
Although they are very different people, they undeniably make a good crime-fighting duo even though they constantly bicker. The highlight of this movie is the endearing chemistry between its leads. Every time they are both on screen, the audience can't help but become engrossed in their witty interactions.
This Mel Gibson movie became so popular that it led to three sequels. According to reports, a fifth one is currently in the works.
Where to watch: Lethal Weapon can be viewed on Max and Prime Video.
4) Braveheart (1995)
This Mel Gibson movie proves that the actor isn't only fit to be in front of the camera but also behind it. Interestingly enough, Braveheart doesn't mark Gibson's directorial debut, which is The Man Without a Face (1993). The epic historical drama is inspired by Blind Harry's The Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace.
The film centers around Scottish warrior William Wallace, who rises up against King Edward I of England, responsible for the murder of his wife. In addition to Gibson, Braveheart stars Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan, Catherine McCormack, and Angus Macfadyen.
Even though historical events have been fictionalized in the movie, Braveheart is still able to capture the viewer's attention thanks to its well-written screenplay, which boasts impressive battle scenes and emotionally-driven moments. Gibson plays William with such depth and intensity that it is easy to feel invested in his journey.
Where to watch: Braveheart is available on Disney+ and Prime Video.
5) Get the Gringo (2012)
This Mel Gibson movie by Adrian Grunberg is also known as How I Spent My Summer Vacation. Co-written by Mel Gibson himself, it focuses on an unnamed getaway driver who crashes through the Mexican border. After getting arrested, Mexican police officers put him inside El Pueblito prison, where he meets and befriends a young boy living with his incarcerated mother.
Mel Gibson effortlessly carries the narrative forward. His character isn't a saint, but he has enough redeeming qualities for the audience to want to root for him. This Mel Gibson movie thrives on its solid screenplay brought alive by creative shots, captivating performances, and witty lines. Action fans should particularly keep an eye out for the striking shoot-out scenes.
Where to watch: Get the Gringo is available for streaming on Max, Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
Cinephiles who enjoy watching Mel Gibson movies should add these engaging titles to their 2025 watchlist as they showcase the actor at his best.
