All Burt Reynolds Movies, Ranked

This 1972 survival thriller tells the harrowing story of four city men on a canoeing trip in the Georgia wilderness, with Reynolds starring as Lewis Medlock, an experienced outdoorsman. His intense, gritty portrayal of Lewis – a character representing strength and masculinity - became a defining moment in his career, earning him critical acclaim and a long-lasting fan base. Moreover, Reynolds' athletic and charismatic presence greatly contributes to the film's tense atmosphere and its enduring status as a powerful exploration of human nature and adventure gone awry.

In this classic 1977 action-comedy, Burt Reynolds delivers an unforgettable performance as Bo "Bandit" Darville, a charismatic trucker who takes on a high-stakes, cross-country challenge. With his charm, wit, and expert driving skills, Reynolds breathes life into this Southern folk hero, helping to solidify his status as an iconic leading man. This film's commercial success and lasting impact on car chase movies truly showcase Reynolds' ability to captivate audiences and drive box office sales.

As former pro football player turned inmate Paul "Wrecking" Crewe, Reynolds demonstrated his versatility as an actor in this beloved 1974 sports comedy-drama. With a performance that blends athleticism, humor, and humanity, he truly captures the essence of this complex character who is struggling to redeem himself by leading a team of convicts against their prison guards in a high-stakes football game. It is this compelling portrayal that elevates the film to a classic in the genre, further cementing Reynolds' position as one of cinema's most talented stars.

In 1978's Hooper, Reynolds gave a standout turn as Sonny Hooper, a veteran Hollywood stuntman wrestling with the challenges of aging, competition, and the quest for one last, great stunt. His natural charm and humor shine through in this ode to the unsung heroes of the film industry, showcasing his ability to elevate a character study into a heartfelt tribute. Reynolds' relatable and engaging performance underscores the film's message about perseverance and camaraderie, traits that became synonymous with the actor himself.

Reynolds embodied the quintessential Southern outlaw in this 1973 action-drama, where he portrayed Gator McKlusky, a convicted moonshiner on a quest for justice and revenge. The actor's effortless charisma and intense physicality help create a dynamic protagonist who is both an anti-establishment folk hero and a deeply flawed human being. The film's success led to a sequel, Gator, bolstering Reynolds' reputation as one of the era's most bankable stars.

Following up the popularity of 1973's White Lightning, Reynolds not only reprised his role as moonshiner Gator McKlusky in this 1976 sequel but also made his directorial debut. His triumphant return to the character combines grittier dramatic moments with the fast-paced action and humor audiences had come to expect from the star. With Gator, Reynolds reaffirmed his ability to deliver a crowd-pleasing performance while simultaneously proving his skills behind the camera.