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Rising swiftly through the ranks of contemporary cinema, Josh O’Connor has emerged as one of the most captivating and versatile actors of his generation. Known for his nuanced performances and emotional depth, O’Connor’s choice of roles showcases an impressive range, from intimate indie dramas to prestigious period pieces. His top movies not only reflect his remarkable acting prowess but also highlight the evolution of his craft.
In this article, we explore Josh O’Connor’s top movies, diving deep into the roles that have solidified his standing as a powerhouse talent in modern cinema.
Best performances by Josh O’Connor: A closer look
Josh O’Connor’s career is a testament to his dedication to storytelling and character work. Here’s a detailed look at some of his best performances across acclaimed films.
God’s Own Country (2017)
Plot:
Directed by Francis Lee, God’s Own Country tells the story of Johnny Saxby, a young Yorkshire farmer numbing his loneliness and frustrations with binge drinking and casual sex. When Romanian migrant worker Gheorghe (Alec Secăreanu) arrives for the lambing season, the two men develop a tender and transformative relationship.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor portrays Johnny Saxby with a raw vulnerability, capturing the character’s emotional repression and gradual opening up with breathtaking authenticity.
Critical Reception:
The film was met with universal acclaim, often dubbed “the British Brokeback Mountain.” Critics praised O’Connor’s intensely physical and emotional performance. The Guardian called his portrayal “a revelation.”
Box Office Performance:
Despite being a low-budget independent film, God’s Own Country performed exceptionally well, earning over $2.6 million globally.
Awards and Nominations:
O’Connor received the British Independent Film Award (BIFA) for Best Actor and was nominated for several other prestigious awards, cementing his breakout status.
The Lost Daughter (2021)
Plot:
Directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Lost Daughter is a psychological drama adapted from Elena Ferrante’s novel. It follows Leda (Olivia Colman), a woman confronting her unsettling past while on a beach holiday.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
Though O’Connor’s role as Toni, a minor but impactful character, is brief, his appearance adds texture to the ensemble, showcasing his knack for blending seamlessly into complex narratives.
Critical Reception:
The film garnered widespread acclaim, particularly for its screenplay and performances. Variety praised the “brilliantly cohesive cast” for elevating the emotional tension.
Box Office Performance:
As a Netflix release with a limited theatrical run, traditional box office numbers were modest, but it achieved strong streaming success.
Awards and Nominations:
While O’Connor didn’t receive individual nominations, the film’s ensemble was celebrated, winning multiple awards and earning three Academy Award nominations.
Mothering Sunday (2021)
Plot:
Eva Husson’s Mothering Sunday is a poignant romantic drama based on Graham Swift’s novel. Set in post-World War I England, it chronicles a day in the life of housemaid Jane Fairchild (Odessa Young) as she navigates love and grief.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor plays Paul Sheringham, an aristocratic young man entangled in a forbidden love affair. His portrayal is marked by restrained intensity and a palpable sense of yearning.
Critical Reception:
Critics lauded the film’s intimate storytelling and evocative performances. Screen Daily described O’Connor’s turn as “beautifully melancholic.”
Box Office Performance:
The film had a limited release but found a strong following in the festival circuit.
Awards and Nominations:
Though Mothering Sunday didn’t secure major awards, O’Connor’s performance was highlighted in several year-end lists.
Josh O’Connor’s top-rated movies that captivated audiences
Josh O’Connor’s top-rated films have resonated with audiences worldwide, combining critical acclaim with widespread admiration.
Emma. (2020)
Plot:
Directed by Autumn de Wilde, Emma. is a vibrant adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel. It follows the mischievous and meddlesome Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) as she navigates the complexities of matchmaking in 19th-century England.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor portrays Mr Elton, the bumbling, self-important vicar whose misplaced affections for Emma lead to comic misunderstandings.
Critical Reception:
The film received glowing reviews for its fresh take on Austen’s beloved work. O’Connor’s comedic timing was particularly praised, with The Telegraph noting that he was “delightfully pompous.”
Box Office Performance:
Emma. earned over $26 million worldwide before the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed its box office potential.
Awards and Nominations:
The film was nominated for two Academy Awards (Costume Design and Makeup & Hairstyling), with O’Connor’s scene-stealing performance receiving critical nods.
La Chimera (2023)
Plot:
Directed by Alice Rohrwacher, La Chimera explores the world of tomb raiders in 1980s Tuscany, focusing on a group of archaeologists and dreamers seeking hidden treasures.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor stars as Arthur, a troubled young Englishman whose quest for artefacts mirrors his search for lost love and purpose.
Critical Reception:
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, the film received strong acclaim for its poetic storytelling and O’Connor’s hauntingly beautiful performance. IndieWire praised him as “ethereal and deeply moving.”
Box Office Performance:
As a European arthouse release, box office numbers were modest but respectable within its niche.
Awards and Nominations:
La Chimera was shortlisted for multiple international awards, further boosting O’Connor’s standing in global cinema.
Top movie roles of Josh O’Connor: Showcasing his acting range
Josh O’Connor’s top movie roles highlight his ability to slip into vastly different characters with ease, each time offering a new facet of his acting artistry.
Only You (2018)
Plot:
Directed by Harry Wootliff, Only You is an intimate portrayal of a young couple’s relationship, exploring themes of love, infertility, and resilience.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor plays Jake, a kind-hearted man grappling with the emotional turbulence of trying to start a family. His performance is understated yet deeply affecting.
Critical Reception:
The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of modern relationships. The Guardian hailed O’Connor and co-star Laia Costa’s performances as “achingly authentic.”
Box Office Performance:
Only You had a limited theatrical release but gained strong critical support and a loyal viewership through streaming platforms.
Awards and Nominations:
O’Connor earned a nomination for Best Actor at the BIFAs, underscoring his growing reputation for sensitive portrayals.
The Colour Room (2021)
Plot:
Claire McCarthy’s The Colour Room tells the inspiring true story of Clarice Cliff (Phoebe Dynevor), a pioneering ceramic artist in 1920s England.
Josh O’Connor’s Role:
O’Connor plays Colley Shorter, the progressive factory owner who recognises Clarice’s talent and supports her unconventional ambitions.
Critical Reception:
Though the film received mixed reviews overall, O’Connor’s performance was singled out for its warmth and charm.
Box Office Performance:
Released primarily through Sky Cinema and limited theatres, the film had a modest financial showing.
Awards and Nominations:
While The Colour Room did not receive major awards, O’Connor’s steady and supportive role added depth to the historical narrative.
Why Josh O’Connor’s movies are a must-watch
Across all the top movies of Josh O’Connor, a consistent theme emerges: a profound emotional honesty. Whether portraying conflicted farmers, bumbling vicars, or lovesick aristocrats, O’Connor imbues every character with an authenticity that resonates deeply with audiences.
His ability to seamlessly shift from intense drama to sharp comedy is a testament to his immense range as an actor.
In a 2017 interview, O’Connor remarked, “I’m interested in playing outsiders and people who find it hard to fit in. I think there’s something very beautiful in their struggles.” This philosophy is clearly evident in the rich tapestry of roles he has chosen.
Conclusion: Josh O’Connor’s enduring impact on modern cinema
As we reflect on the top movies of Josh O’Connor, it becomes clear that his body of work stands as a beacon of thoughtful, emotionally resonant storytelling.
His career trajectory — from indie breakthrough to award-winning performances on the international stage — underscores his versatility, sensitivity, and commitment to his craft.
For anyone seeking to experience the best of contemporary acting, watching Josh O’Connor’s films is not just recommended — it is essential.
With upcoming projects and further collaborations with visionary directors on the horizon, Josh O’Connor’s cinematic journey promises to remain a captivating one.
Whether you are discovering his work for the first time or revisiting his finest performances, his films are sure to leave an indelible impression.