20 Movie Stars: From Small Screen Roles to Big Screen Stardom

1. The Wolf of Wall Street 2013，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 1604031, ID: 0993846
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Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ is a riveting exploration of excess and debauchery, led by a powerhouse performance from Leonardo DiCaprio. The film is both abashed and shameless, exciting and exhausting, disgusting and illuminating. It’s interesting to note that before his stardom, DiCaprio had a recurring role in the TV show ‘Growing Pains’. This juxtaposition of his early small TV role and his later intense portrayal of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who leads a life of decadence and corruption, is a testament to DiCaprio’s range and growth as an actor. The film, while showcasing the dark side of wealth and greed, is ridiculously fun to watch due to its energetic storytelling and compelling performances.
2. The Hunger Games 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 1012767, ID: 1392170
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The Hunger Games 2012 is a thrilling dystopian film with commendable performances from its cast, who had humble beginnings in smaller TV roles. The film is thought-provoking but misses some opportunities for social criticism. It is a testament to the successful transition of actors from small TV roles to blockbuster films.
3. The Dark Knight 2008，IMDB Rating: 9.0, IMDB Votes: 2900197, ID: 0468569
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The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan, is a masterpiece that transcends its comic book origins to become an engrossing tragedy. The film presents a complex moral puzzle, with Batman being seen as a vigilante by the citizens of Gotham City, and the Joker, played by the late Heath Ledger, posing moral dilemmas for his enemies. Ledger’s performance is particularly noteworthy, drawing inspiration from the character in the silent classic “The Man Who Laughs”. However, there doesn’t seem to be any specific information about the cast having small TV roles before they were famous.
4. The Avengers 2012，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 1469064, ID: 0848228
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The Avengers, a Marvel Cinematic Universe film, is a superhero spectacle that brings together Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Hulk, the Black Widow, and Hawkeye. The film is praised for its balance of celebrity circus, giving each superstar character their due. It’s interesting to note that many of the stars had small TV roles before they became famous. Robert Downey Jr., who plays Iron Man, was a cast member on Saturday Night Live at only 20 years old. Chris Evans, who portrays Captain America, had a small role in a video about bald eagles and America. Scarlett Johansson, who plays the Black Widow, had a role in Home Alone 3. Mark Ruffalo, who plays the Hulk, had a role in a Clearasil commercial. These early roles show the humble beginnings of these stars, adding a layer of depth to their performances in The Avengers. The film is a testament to their growth as actors and their contributions to the superhero genre.
5. The Notebook 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 627750, ID: 0332280
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The Notebook, a romantic drama from 2004, is a film that tugs at the heartstrings. It’s a tale of young love between Allie and Noah, played by Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling. Interestingly, before Gosling became a household name in Hollywood, he was a child actor in Canada, featuring in the children’s horror show ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’. This adds a fascinating layer to his career trajectory, showing how even movie stars start from humble beginnings. The film, despite its mixed reviews, has become a cult classic, with Gosling and McAdams’ performances receiving much praise. As a movie lover, I appreciate the film’s emotional depth and the actors’ journey to stardom.
6. The Devil Wears Prada 2006，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 476279, ID: 0458352
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“The Devil Wears Prada” is a testament to the transformative power of cinema. It’s fascinating to see how actors, like Daniel Sunjata, transition from small TV roles to significant parts in blockbuster films. The movie itself is a delightful comedy-drama, with Meryl Streep’s performance being a standout. It’s a film that’s as much about the fashion industry as it is about personal growth and ambition.
7. The Matrix 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 2074154, ID: 0133093
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The Matrix, a 1999 sci-fi action film, is a revolutionary cinematic experience that redefined the genre with its innovative visual effects and themes of conformity. The film’s impressive visual effects, deep philosophical story, and kung fu action set it apart. However, it’s not just the film’s technical prowess that stands out. The performances of the cast, including Keanu Reeves as Neo, Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus, and Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity, are equally compelling. Before their fame from The Matrix, these actors had smaller roles in TV shows, which helped them hone their craft. This film is a testament to their growth as actors and their ability to bring complex characters to life. Despite its age, The Matrix’s relevance in today’s tech-dependent society is a testament to its brilliance.
8. The Terminator 1984，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 932871, ID: 0088247
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The Terminator, directed by James Cameron, is a sci-fi classic that has stood the test of time. The film’s plot revolves around a cyborg assassin, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who travels from 2029 to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor. Before his iconic role as the Terminator, Schwarzenegger had a series of small TV roles. His mechanical delivery as the Terminator added to the success of the franchise. As a movie lover who appreciates creativity and adventure, I found Schwarzenegger’s transition from small TV roles to a major film star fascinating. His performance in The Terminator is a testament to his versatility and talent. Despite the film’s dark theme, it’s filled with thrilling action sequences and a compelling storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
9. The Silence of the Lambs 1991，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 1564773, ID: 0102926
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The Silence of the Lambs is a masterclass in suspense, horror, and the psychological depth of its characters. The performances of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins are unforgettable, creating a chilling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. While it doesn’t directly relate to the topic of actors starting in small TV roles, it’s a testament to the journey many actors take from humble beginnings to unforgettable performances.
10. The Godfather 1972，IMDB Rating: 9.2, IMDB Votes: 2034369, ID: 0068646
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The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is a cinematic masterpiece that invites us to consider the Mafia entirely on its own terms. The film is praised for its brilliant storytelling, acting, and cinematography. The movie stars Marlon Brando as Don Vito Corleone, a character who emerges as sympathetic and even admirable. Interestingly, before landing his iconic role in The Godfather, James Caan, who played Sonny Corleone, had auditioned for the role of Michael Corleone. This highlights the fascinating journey of actors who had small TV roles before they became famous. As a movie lover, I find it intriguing to see how these actors evolved in their careers. The Godfather, with its compelling narrative and memorable performances, remains an unforgettable masterpiece in Hollywood.
11. The Big Lebowski 1998，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 866711, ID: 0118715
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“The Big Lebowski” is a delightful maze of eccentric characters and witty dialogue. Its lack of a conventional plot is more than compensated by the charm of Jeff Bridges’ performance as the Dude. The film’s unique style and humor make it a standout, and knowing that many of its stars had humble beginnings in small TV roles adds a touch of realness to its Hollywood sheen. It’s a testament to the journey of actors and a must-watch for any movie lover.
12. The Office 2005，IMDB Rating: 9.0, IMDB Votes: 726985, ID: 0386676
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“The Office” is a brilliant portrayal of the mundane yet humorous aspects of office life. Its unique mockumentary style and well-developed characters make it a must-watch. Notably, it served as a launchpad for many actors, including Amy Adams, who shone even in her small role. This series beautifully intertwines humor and reality, making it a timeless classic.
13. The X Files 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 252655, ID: 0106179
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The X Files, a groundbreaking sci-fi series, not only captivated audiences with its intriguing plot and the undeniable chemistry between its leads, but also served as a launchpad for many actors. Its influence on the sci-fi genre is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire. As a lover of art and design, I appreciate the show’s creative storytelling and compelling visuals. It’s a testament to the power of television as a medium for artistic expression.
14. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air 1990，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 145855, ID: 0098800
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“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” is a testament to the humble beginnings of movie stars. This 90s sitcom, brimming with humor and heart, served as the launchpad for Will Smith’s illustrious career. Smith’s portrayal of a street-smart kid navigating the affluent world of Bel-Air is both hilarious and touching. The show, while a product of its time, remains a timeless classic, reminding us of the journey every artist must undertake. It’s a must-watch for those interested in the early roles of today’s movie stars.
15. The Simpsons 1989，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 439613, ID: 0096697
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The Simpsons, a show that began in 1989, is a testament to the power of television as a stepping stone for actors. Its clever humor and zany antics have made it a beloved fixture in homes worldwide. The show’s evolution in animation quality over the years is a testament to its commitment to artistic expression. It’s fascinating to think of the now-famous faces that may have graced this show in minor roles, underscoring the show’s influence in the industry.
16. The Muppet Show 1976，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 26460, ID: 0074028
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“The Muppet Show” is a timeless classic that beautifully blends comedy, family, and musical elements. Its unique format of featuring a new celebrity guest in each episode provided a platform for many actors who later rose to fame. The show’s creative genius lies in its ability to entertain audiences of all ages while subtly providing a stepping stone for future stars. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable and continues to be felt even today.
17. The Twilight Zone 1959，IMDB Rating: 9.1, IMDB Votes: 94921, ID: 0052520
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The Twilight Zone, a classic TV series from the late 50s and early 60s, is a treasure trove of performances by actors who would later become famous. Its unique blend of drama, fantasy, and horror provided a platform for these actors to showcase their talents in a variety of challenging roles. The imaginative storytelling and suspenseful style of the series not only entertained audiences but also played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of its cast.
18. The Sopranos 1999，IMDB Rating: 9.2, IMDB Votes: 482150, ID: 0141842
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The Sopranos, a riveting blend of dark humor and drama, serves as a launchpad for many actors who later rose to stardom. The series masterfully weaves an intricate tale of family ties and mob life, offering a rich tapestry of characters that allowed the cast to showcase their acting prowess. It’s a testament to the power of television as a stepping stone to greater fame.
19. The Wire 2002，IMDB Rating: 9.3, IMDB Votes: 382888, ID: 0306414
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The Wire, a gritty portrayal of Baltimore’s underbelly, serves as a testament to the journey of many actors who started with small roles on TV before reaching stardom. Its raw depiction of life and compelling narrative make it a must-watch. It’s fascinating to see how the series has been a launchpad for many actors, adding a layer of intrigue to an already captivating series.
20. The Crown 2016，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 259846, ID: 4786824
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The Crown, a visual feast of a series, beautifully captures the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It’s fascinating to consider that some of the talented cast may have cut their teeth in smaller TV roles. This adds a layer of intrigue to the series, making it not just a historical drama, but a testament to the journey of an actor. The Crown is a must-watch, not just for its historical accuracy and production value, but for the potential stars of tomorrow it may be nurturing.