Sylvester Stallone Movies: 12 Greatest Films Ranked from Worst to Best

Sylvester Stallone, a name synonymous with Hollywood action legends, has graced the screen for over 50 years, crafting a cinematic legacy filled with unforgettable characters and gripping narratives. From the underdog Rocky Balboa to the indomitable John Rambo, Stallone’s diverse filmography showcases his incredible range and resilience in the film industry. In this article, we delve into the 12 greatest Sylvester Stallone movies, ranked from least to most exceptional, illustrating his remarkable versatility as an actor.

Top 12 Sylvester Stallone Movies you should watch at least one in life

12. Oscar (1991)

• Director: John Landis
• Writers: Michael Barrie, Jim Mulholland, based on the play by Claude Magnier
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Peter Riegert, Tim Curry, Marisa Tomei, Kirk Douglas

In a surprising departure from his typical action roles, Sylvester Stallone ventured into screwball comedy with Oscar (1991). Directed by John Landis, this film sees Stallone in the role of Snaps Provolone, a flashy gangster trying to reform his life and become a legitimate banker. The comedic chaos that ensues when his daughter announces her surprise pregnancy adds a unique flavor to Stallone’s filmography. Despite its box office struggles, Oscar highlights Stallone’s willingness to explore new genres and expand his acting horizons.

11. Cliffhanger (1993)

• Director: Renny Harlin
• Writers: Michael France, Sylvester Stallone
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, John Lithgow, Michael Rooker, Janine Turner

Cliffhanger (1993) features Stallone as Gabe Walker, a former mountain climber who becomes entangled in a high-stakes heist after a plane crash. Directed by Renny Harlin, this action-packed thriller has Stallone confronting criminals who are after $100 million hidden on the plane. With its breathtaking Alpine scenery and intense action sequences, Cliffhanger stands out as a box office hit and a testament to Stallone’s ability to deliver gripping performances in thrilling environments.

10. Nighthawks (1981)

• Director: Bruce Malmuth
• Writer: David Shaber
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Billy Dee Williams, Rutger Hauer, Lindsay Wagner

In Nighthawks (1981), Stallone portrays NYPD detective Deke DeSilva in a gritty, tension-filled thriller. The film follows DeSilva as he hunts down a European terrorist, Wulfgar Reinhardt, played by Rutger Hauer. This movie showcases Stallone’s ability to delve into darker, more complex roles and provides a gripping narrative with its intense action and suspense.

9. The Lords of Flatbush (1974)

• Directors: Martin Davidson, Stephen Verona
• Writers: Martin Davidson, Stephen Verona, Gayle Geckler
• Starring: Perry King, Sylvester Stallone, Henry Winkler, Maria Smith

Stallone’s early work in The Lords of Flatbush (1974) presents him as Stanley Rosiello, a Brooklyn teenager involved in a local gang. This coming-of-age drama explores the struggles of youth and the challenges of street life. Stallone’s performance as Stanley is heartfelt and reveals his potential as a young actor, making this film a notable entry in his early career.

8. Antz (1998)

• Directors: Eric Darnell, Tim Johnson
• Writers: Paul Weitz, Chris Weitz, Todd Alcott
• Voices: Woody Allen, Sharon Stone, Sylvester Stallone, Gene Hackman, Jennifer Lopez

Antz (1998) marks Stallone’s foray into animation, where he voices Corporal Weaver, a valiant soldier ant. The film’s storyline, revolving around the ant’s quest for individuality and heroism, benefits from Stallone’s distinctive voice work. As a part of DreamWorks Animation’s debut, Antz received positive reviews and demonstrated Stallone’s versatility beyond live-action roles.

7. Paradise Alley (1978)

• Director/Writer: Sylvester Stallone
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Armand Assante, Lee Canalito, Anne Archer, Kevin Conway

Stallone’s directorial debut, Paradise Alley (1978), is set in the 1940s professional wrestling scene. Stallone stars as Cosmo Carboni, one of three brothers attempting to escape their impoverished existence through wrestling. The film showcases Stallone’s storytelling passion and his ambition to expand his creative endeavors beyond acting.

6. F.I.S.T. (1978)

• Director: Norman Jewison
• Writers: Joe Eszterhas, Sylvester Stallone
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Rod Steiger, Peter Boyle, Melinda Dillon

In F.I.S.T. (1978), Stallone plays Johnny Kovak, a truck driver who rises to become a union leader during the 1930s. The film explores labor struggles and Kovak’s fight for workers’ rights, showcasing Stallone’s ability to tackle complex, socially-conscious roles. This film stands out as a powerful drama in Stallone’s diverse filmography.

5. Death Race 2000 (1975)

• Director: Paul Bartel
• Writers: Robert Thom, Charles Griffith
• Starring: David Carradine, Simone Griffeth, Sylvester Stallone, Mary Waranov

Death Race 2000 (1975) is a dystopian action-comedy where Stallone plays Machine Gun Joe Viterbo, a flamboyant racer in a brutal cross-country competition. The film’s outrageous premise and Stallone’s over-the-top performance make it a memorable and entertaining entry in his career.

4. First Blood / Rambo Series (1982-2008)

• Directors: Various
• Writers: Various, including Sylvester Stallone
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna

The Rambo series, beginning with First Blood (1982), features Stallone as John Rambo, a troubled Vietnam War veteran. The series explores Rambo’s struggles with society and his quest for justice. Stallone’s portrayal of Rambo has become an iconic symbol of resilience and survival, cementing his status as an action hero.

3. Cop Land (1997)

• Director/Writer: James Mangold
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Harvey Keitel

In Cop Land (1997), Stallone plays Freddy Heflin, an overweight sheriff uncovering corruption in his town’s police force. The film’s critical success and Stallone’s nuanced performance alongside Robert De Niro and Harvey Keitel highlight his ability to deliver powerful, dramatic roles.

2. Rocky Series (1976-2006)

• Director: Various
• Writer: Sylvester Stallone
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Burgess Meredith

The Rocky series is the crowning achievement of Stallone’s career. His portrayal of Rocky Balboa earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay. The series’ success, spanning six films, underscores Stallone’s embodiment of perseverance and determination, making Rocky a cultural icon.

1. Creed (2015)

• Director: Ryan Coogler
• Writers: Ryan Coogler, Aaron Covington
• Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson

At the pinnacle of Stallone’s career is Creed (2015), a remarkable reboot of the Rocky series. Stallone reprises his role as an aging Rocky Balboa, mentoring Adonis Creed, the son of his former rival Apollo Creed. Stallone’s touching performance earned him a Golden Globe Award and his third Academy Award nomination, solidifying his legacy as one of Hollywood’s greats.

Whether you’re revisiting Stallone’s classic roles or exploring his lesser-known films, these Sylvester Stallone movies offer a comprehensive look at his illustrious career. For a deeper dive into Stallone’s filmography and to watch these iconic films, visit FMovies.