by Brad Pitt, a name synonymous with Hollywood royalty, has not only dazzled audiences with his leading roles but has also left an indelible mark in the realm of supporting performances. As a dedicated fan, pinpointing the top five supporting roles of this iconic actor is a challenging yet thrilling task. Join me as we delve into the cinematic treasure trove of Pitt’s career, celebrating the moments when he stole the spotlight while playing second fiddle.
- Cliff Booth in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019)
Let’s kick off our exploration with a recent gem. In Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” Pitt takes on the role of Cliff Booth, the enigmatic stunt double to Leonardo DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton. Pitt’s portrayal earned him his first Academy Award, and rightfully so. With a perfect blend of charisma, physical prowess, and a touch of mystery, Booth becomes more than just a supporting character—he becomes the beating heart of the film.
- J.D. in “Thelma and Louise” (1991)
Traveling back to the early ’90s, we encounter the role that catapulted Pitt to stardom—J.D. in “Thelma and Louise.” Despite limited screen time, Pitt’s portrayal of the charismatic yet dangerous outlaw leaves an enduring impact. J.D.’s arrival marks a turning point in the film, setting the stage for Thelma and Louise’s journey. It’s a testament to Pitt’s magnetic presence that a character with such brevity resonates so strongly.
- Rusty Ryan in “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001) and sequels
In the heist caper “Ocean’s Eleven,” Pitt steps into the shoes of Rusty Ryan, a slick and suave con artist. His chemistry with the ensemble cast, led by George Clooney, adds a layer of charm and humor to the film. The character of Rusty Ryan becomes an integral part of the heist crew, and Pitt’s playful portrayal contributes significantly to the success of the film and its subsequent sequels.
- Tyler Durden in “Fight Club” (1999)
While “Fight Club” technically features Pitt as a co-lead alongside Edward Norton, Tyler Durden’s role is quintessentially supporting in its enigmatic nature. Pitt’s portrayal of the anarchistic soap salesman is nothing short of iconic. His charismatic yet unpredictable presence adds depth to the film, and the character remains a subject of analysis and discussion among cinephiles to this day.
- Billy Beane in “Moneyball” (2011)
In “Moneyball,” Pitt takes on the role of Billy Beane, the real-life Oakland Athletics general manager who revolutionized baseball through statistical analysis. This supporting role showcases Pitt’s versatility as an actor. Shedding his typical on-screen persona, he delivers a grounded and compelling performance that earned critical acclaim and solidified his prowess in dramatic roles.
Conclusion
These five supporting performances represent just a glimpse into the vast tapestry of Brad Pitt’s cinematic journey. As a fan, exploring his filmography is a journey of discovery, and personal preferences may lead you to other remarkable roles like Roy McBride in “Ad Astra” or Floyd Holt in “True Romance.” The beauty of celebrating Pitt’s career lies in the subjective nature of defining the “best.” So, what’s your favorite Brad Pitt supporting role that didn’t make the list? I’m eager to hear about the moments that resonate most with fellow fans!
