Joseph Gordon-Levitt's top 5 roles that show his range
What's the story
Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been one of the most prominent names in the movie industry, thanks to his versatility and dedication to his craft. Over the years, he has taken on various roles that have showcased his range as an actor. From rom-coms to intense thrillers, Gordon-Levitt's performances have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Here are five of his most iconic roles.
Romantic role
'500 Days of Summer' as Tom Hansen
In 500 Days of Summer, Gordon-Levitt plays the role of Tom Hansen, a greeting card writer who falls in love with Summer Finn. The film's narrative follows the complexities of modern relationships through Tom's eyes. His portrayal captures the nuances of love and heartbreak, something many can relate to. The role gave him a chance to flex his comedic timing and emotional depth, greatly contributing to the film's success.
Thrilling performance
'Inception' as Arthur
In Inception, Gordon-Levitt played Arthur, a skilled extractor specializing in dream-sharing technology. His character was a meticulous, composed presence, keeping the team led by Dom Cobb balanced. The movie's complex plot needed the cast to be spot-on, and Gordon-Levitt was, with precision and intensity. His performance only added layers to this mind-bending thriller.
Sci-fi adventure
'Looper' as Joe Simmons
In Looper, Gordon-Levitt plays Joe Simmons, a hitman employed by a crime syndicate who uses time travel to kill people. The movie offers an interesting story in which young Joe faces his older self, portrayed by Bruce Willis. To make this dual role dynamic and believable, he had to undergo a lot of physical and emotional transformation, which he did flawlessly, making this sci-fi adventure even better.
Heroic role
'The Dark Knight Rises' as John Blake
Gordon-Levitt stars as John Blake in The Dark Knight Rises, playing an earnest police officer. He becomes instrumental in Gotham City's fight against crime along with Batman himself, played by Christian Bale. Not only does his character embody hope amidst chaos, but he's also courageous under pressure. And, he does this throughout pivotal moments within this action-packed conclusion to Nolan's trilogy.
Career milestone
'(500) Days of Summer' impact on career
While already established prior, (500) Days of Summer marked a major turning point within the career trajectory, largely due to its critical acclaim, coupled with commercial success. It opened doors, leading towards more diverse opportunities across genres, subsequently solidifying a reputation as a versatile actor capable of handling varied roles effectively.