These 5 Brendan Fraser Movies Are True Classics

Brendan Fraser‘s career is one of Hollywood’s most remarkable stories. Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, he established himself as one of the industry’s most charismatic leading men, effortlessly bouncing between action blockbusters, broad comedies, heartfelt family films, and thoughtful dramas. Then, after years away from the spotlight, Fraser made an extraordinary comeback (with an Oscar in tow) that reminded audiences of the talent they had almost forgotten.

Of course, what makes Fraser’s filmography so enduring is its remarkable range. He could carry a globe-trotting adventure with effortless charm, throw himself headfirst into an outrageous comedy, or deliver deeply emotional dramatic performances with equal conviction. But most importantly, he carries an unmistakable sincerity to every role he plays, making him impossible not to root for. So, for those wanting to go through a good nostalgia hit, why not check out the best of these Brendan Fraser classics?

5

Bedazzled (2000)

Image via 20th Century Studios

Elliot Richards (Fraser) is a painfully awkward office worker who’s hopelessly in love with his colleague Alison (Frances O’Connor). And after a chance encounter with a charming Devil (Elizabeth Hurley), Elliot agrees to trade seven years of his soul in exchange for seven wishes that he believes will win him the life of his dreams. Unfortunately for him, every wish backfires as they always come with a comical twist.

As one of Fraser’s most underrated comedies, Bedazzled stands out as it showcases his wide range of talents, given that every new wish transforms him into a completely different character. Whether it’s an egotistical basketball star, an impossibly sensitive intellectual, or an overconfident crime boss, Fraser commits wholeheartedly to every moment of absurdity. His fearless comedy and willingness to make himself the butt of the joke make the film an extremely fun watch, while the story’s underlying message about self-worth gives it an unexpected amount of heart. Sure, it may not receive the same recognition as his other hits, but it deserves your attention, especially as it holds tons of 2000s charm.

4

Gods and Monsters (1998)

Image via Lionsgate Films

Set in the fictional final years of filmmaker James Whale‘s (Sir Ian McKellen) life, the retired Frankenstein director finds himself developing an unlikely friendship with his young gardener, Clayton Boone (Fraser). But as Whale’s health deteriorates and painful memories resurface, Boone slowly gains insight into the loneliness, regrets, and extraordinary life of one of Hollywood’s most influential directors.

While McKellen deservedly received praise for his performance, Fraser provides the emotional counterbalance that makes Gods and Monsters such an affecting film. Boone could’ve been the mere “observer”, but Fraser imbues him with compassion, decency, and a quiet complexity that leave audiences hooked as he uncovers the truth behind the revered artist. Frankly, it’s a performance that served as an early indicator of Fraser’s dramatic chops. Elegant, deeply humane, and emotionally devastating, this is a great biopic that people should watch at least once in their life.

3

George of the Jungle (1997)

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After being raised by animals following a childhood plane crash, the lovable but hopelessly naïve George (Fraser) spends his days swinging through the jungle with his animal friends. But his peaceful existence is suddenly disrupted when he rescues San Francisco socialite Ursula Stanhope (Leslie Mann), eventually following her back to civilization where he struggles to adapt to a world that makes even less sense than the jungle.

On paper, George of the Jungle could’ve remained as your typical goofy family comedy. Instead, Fraser’s complete commitment transforms the film into something genuinely delightful (abs aside). Throwing himself into the physical comedy with infectious enthusiasm, he makes sure that George remains endlessly adored and sincere rather than simply ridiculous. His natural earnestness allows every joke to land perfectly as audiences are laughing with George, not at him (at least most of the time). Add in the film’s wonderfully self-aware narrator, clever visual gags, sweet romance, and an irresistible sense of fun, and it’s easy to understand why generations continue to revisit this 90s favorite.

2

School Ties (1992)

Image via Paramount Pictures

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Set in an elite New England prep school in the 1950s, David Greene (Fraser), a gifted football player, earns a scholarship despite coming from a working-class background. Initially welcomed by his wealthy classmates, David’s popularity begins to unravel when they discover the truth behind his faith, exposing the deep-rooted prejudice lurking beneath the school’s polished exterior.

While School Ties is undeniably a sports movie, its lasting impact comes not from a final match victory, but from its thoughtful examination of discrimination, privilege, and moral courage. Fraser anchors the film through one of his most emotionally resonant performances, by playing David not as an untouchable hero, but a character with vulnerability, quiet dignity, and a growing sense of isolation that becomes increasingly heartbreaking as the story unfolds. The film also benefits from an extraordinary young ensemble that features the likes of Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Chris O’Donnell, and Cole Hauser. A true catapult of phenomenal careers.

1

The Mummy (1999)

Image via Universal Pictures

When librarian Evelyn Carnahan (Rachel Weisz) uncovers the location of the lost city of Hamunaptra, she recruits charming adventurer Rick O’Connell (Fraser) to guide an expedition into the Egyptian desert. But their treasure hunt accidentally awakens Imhotep (Arnold Vosloo)—an ancient high priest cursed for centuries—unleashing a supernatural force determined to reclaim his lost love and bring devastation to the modern world.

It’s impossible to talk about Fraser’s career without mentioning The Mummy. For one, Rick O’Connell remains one of the great cinematic blockbuster heroes simply because Fraser effortlessly balances rugged action-star charisma with self-deprecating humor and genuine warmth. He’s believable in a fistfight one minute and delivering a perfectly timed comedic line the next. More importantly, the film itself captures a sense of epic adventure that most modern blockbusters often struggle to replicate. Blending horror, comedy, romance, and action into one endlessly entertaining package, The Mummy has only grown more beloved over the years—and will (hopefully) continue to do so through the long-awaited fourth installment.

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The Mummy

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Release Date

April 16, 1999

Runtime

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124 minutes

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