Bill Pullman Movies Ranked by Critics—Rotten Tomatoes Must-Watch Guide
Whether you love action, romance, or sci-fi, these are the Pullman films critics say you shouldn’t miss.
Bill Pullman has been carefully crafting one of the most diverse and durable careers in Hollywood. From blockbusters to indie films, romantic comedies to creepy thrillers, he has done it all: and, importantly, reviewers have taken notice. Having a persona that blends niceness, seriousness, and the right amount of weirdness, Pullman has long had fans. So, what films have stood out all of these years in the eyes of the reviewers?
Using Rotten Tomatoes scores as our arbiter, we’ve compiled the ultimate list ofBill Pullman’s movies—the ultimate investigation of his most reviewed roles. From those who are long-time fans and those discovering him for the first time, these are his penned movies that ranked highest.
Who is Bill Pullman?
Bill Pullman is an American actor, best known for his work in films like Independence Day, While You Were Sleeping, and Spaceballs. His acting career has spanned more than thirty years, and he’s known for evocative everyman appeal, depth of feeling and emotional presence, as well as his reckless but effortless inclusion in both independent and mainstream films.
The Ballad of Lefty Brown (2017)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 80% (Certified Fresh)
Genre: Western
Role: Lefty Brown
In this grizzly Western Pullman is front-and-center as Lefty Brown, a faithful but underestimated sidekick compelled to step out of the shadows when his friend is murdered. The film is a character-driven take on the Western genre, and offers Pullman a unique leading role bursting with nuance and heart.
Critics hailed Pullman’s transformative turn, stating that he shepherded the narrative with a reserved, yet riveting presence and emotional depth, not typically present in modern Westerns.
Spaceballs (1987)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 59%
Genre: Sci-Fi Comedy
Role: Lone Starr
Although Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs received mixed critical feedback at the time of its release, it has aged tremendously well, becoming a cult classic. Pullman’s role as the intergalactic rogue Lone Starr has become quite iconic. The film is a parody of the Star Wars franchise, pulling off the same Han Solo swagger, with a goofy twist.
Ruthless People (1986)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 93% (Certified Fresh)
Genre: Crime Comedy
Role: Earl Mott
As one of Pullman’s earlier roles, Ruthless People is a black comedy, and showcases Pullman’s penchant for eccentric characters. He plays the stupid partner in a kidnapping scheme gone all wrong; no easy feat as he holds his own opposite comedy giants like Danny DeVito.
Lost Highway (1997)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 61%
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Role: Fred Madison
What a treat for Bill Pullman to work with the legendary David Lynch on his surreal psychological thriller entitled Lost Highway. Without giving away too much, Pullman plays a jazz musician who gets drawn into a twisted murder mystery where logic and identity no longer hold meaning.
Independence Day (1996)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 68%
Genre: Sci-Fi/Action
Role: President Thomas J. Whitmore
Let’s face it. There is simply no way any list of Bill Pullman’s best movies could possibly be complete without Independence Day. Pullman’s is full of energy, that historic speech that he gives before the final fight in the movie goes down as one of the greatest, most recognizable movie speeches ever.
Casper (1995)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 51%
Genre: Family/Fantasy
Role: Dr. James Harvey
In Casper, Pullman plays a widowed ghost therapist who is trying to help a friendly ghost “cross over.” Casper is a fusion of heartfelt emotion and gentle humor, and Pullman works to keep the bizarre premise grounded in the reality of his character’s grief and injury.
While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: ★ 81% (Certified Fresh)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Role: Jack Callaghan
While this popular romantic comedy starred Sandra Bullock, Pullman earned the hearts of millions as Jack, the sweet, lovable boy next door, who ends up becoming her true love interest.
Honorable Mentions
These movies may not have made my Top 10 but they deserve a mention:
The Equalizer (2014) – small but memorable appearance with Denzel Washington.
Lake Placid (1999) – campy creature feature that is now a cult classic.
Singles (1992) – Cameron Crowe’s rom-dramedy, with Pullman who made a nice cameo.
Why more recognition for Bill Pullman matters.
Bill Pullman has never chased scandal or the box office, he has focused on creating complicated characters and telling meaningful stories. Whether he has been the lead in a sci-fi epic, a great supporting role in a romantic comedy, or exploring psychological complexity in indie films, he has been earnest in every project he has taken on.
His Rotten Tomatoes scores will tell you that critics appreciate Pullman’s consistency, and he does not get in the way of making good movies compared to many more sensational colleagues in Hollywood’s circles.
Where to Start?
If you are untrained to Pullman, here is a brief list of viewing order based on each genre:
If you love a Rom-Com, While You Were Sleeping
If you are an action junkie, Independence Day
If you are a western fan, The Ballad of Lefty Brown
If you love mind-benders, Lost Highway
If it’s family night, Casper
If you are a cult comedy fan, Spaceballs
FAQs
Is Bill Pullman underrated?
Yes, many critics and fans have called Pullman one of the most underrated actors of his generation. Despite the fact that Pullman’s range and emotional honesty are valued in the industry, awards bodies rarely recognize his nuanced, subtle performances.
What is Bill Pullman’s highest rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes?
Ruthless People has one of the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores, at 93%, showcasing Pullman’s comedic chops early in his career.
Did Bill Pullman win any awards for his roles?
Although he is not an awards-potent performer, Pullman does have acclaim from film festivals and critics circles for stage work and indies like The Ballad of Lefty Brown.