If you’re a movie enthusiast like me, Leonardo DiCaprio is a name that undoubtedly reverberates within your movie-loving soul.
From that unforgettable breakout role in “Titanic” to his killer collaborations with the legendary Martin Scorsese, this guy keeps improving with each passing year.
Over three decades, Leo has graced us with iconic characters and performances that have shaped cinema history.
And with a cumulative box office figure of over $2.5 billion, his movies have left audiences completely astounded.
This feat puts him among the top 50 highest-grossing leading actors of all time.
Ranking Leonardo DiCaprio movies is a tough task because, let’s face it, most of them are incomparable.
Each film holds a special place solely because he graces it with his presence.
To get by that challenge, we decided to go with his top 10 highest-rated, as seen on IMDb.
Prepare for the ultimate cinematic treat with the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
10 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
IMDb: 7.7/10 244K | Popularity: 1234 | Metascore:
Genre: Drama
In the small Midwestern town of Endora, Gilbert Grape is a young man facing a delicate balancing act.
He cares for his mentally-disabled younger brother, Arnie, and his morbidly obese mother. Amidst these challenging responsibilities, Gilbert yearns for his own happiness.
In the remarkable film “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” Leonardo DiCaprio delivers an Oscar-rated performance. He was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, and this role stands out in Academy history among an illustrious lineup.
As Arnie Grape, a character with intellectual disabilities, DiCaprio’s portrayal could have easily aged poorly with hindsight. However, his sensitive and sentimental performance remains timeless.
9 Titanic (1997)
IMDb: 7.9/10 1.2M | Popularity: 131 | Metascore:
Genres: Drama, Romance
In the epic tale of “Titanic,” a seventeen-year-old aristocrat unexpectedly falls in love with a compassionate but financially challenged artist aboard the magnificent and ill-fated R.M.S. Titanic.
DiCaprio’s portrayal of Jack in this epic tale is nothing short of mesmerizing.
“Titanic” surpassed all predictions, reigning as the highest-grossing movie for an astounding 12 years. The film and the actor seemed to be destined for each other.
The romance flick launched DiCaprio into the realm of stardom. With his status as Hollywood’s sweetheart, audiences were irresistibly drawn to his captivating portrayal of Jack on the big screen. His charm in the film is simply jaw-dropping.
However, it’s not solely about his charm. The chemistry between DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, who portrays the captivating Rose, is undeniable.
Their portrayal of a love story amidst the backdrop of a tragic disaster feels remarkably authentic and believable, setting “Titanic” up as one of the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
8 Blood Diamond (2006)
IMDb: 8/10 564K | Popularity: 1728 | Metascore:
Genres: Adventure, Drama, Thriller
In “Blood Diamond,” Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the role of a rugged smuggler named Danny Archer.
Archer, a fisherman, and a syndicate of businessmen engaged in a high-stakes battle for a priceless diamond.
DiCaprio brings this complex character to life on the screen with his signature intensity and magnetic presence. As Archer, he navigates the treacherous world of diamond smuggling amidst the chaos of the Sierra Leone civil war.
DiCaprio’s portrayal showcases his exceptional range and commitment to his craft. No wonder this film stands tall among the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
7 The Revenant (2015)
IMDb: 8/10 828K | Popularity: 721 | Metascore:
Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama
Alejandro G. Inarritu‘s “The Revenant” is a gorgeously filmed yet brutally raw survival adventure.
The movie explores the harsh realities of human behavior and the untamed natural world. You’ll witness the characters’ relentless struggle to survive in harsh conditions and the extreme measures they take to endure.
Be prepared to be spellbound by Inarritu’s expert narrative, complemented by breathtaking scenery and unparalleled cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki.
DiCaprio’s presence fills every frame with intensity, earning him his first Oscar and solidifying his exceptional talent.
“The Revenant” is a testament to DiCaprio’s extraordinary abilities, making it a must-watch in his remarkable filmography.
6 Catch Me If You Can (2002)
IMDb: 8.1/10 1M | Popularity: 436 | Top 250: #174 | Metascore:
Genres: Biography, Crime, Drama
Meet Frank Abagnale Jr, a remarkable young forger who, at the tender age of 21, skillfully impersonates a doctor, lawyer, and pilot.
As Frank’s audacious exploits catch the attention of relentless FBI agent Carl, a game of cat and mouse ensues.
This high-stakes chase will keep you on the edge of your seat as Frank revels in the pursuit and Carl becomes consumed by his quest to apprehend this master of deception.
DiCaprio’s undeniable talent, alongside the incredible performances of the legendary Tom Hanks (Carl Hanratty) and the captivating presence of Christopher Walken (Frank Abagnale), is why this is among the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
5 Shutter Island (2010)
IMDb: 8.2/10 1.4M | Popularity: 215 | Top 250: #142 | Metascore:
Genres: Mystery, Thriller
The 2010 psychological thriller “Shutter Island” takes you on a gripping journey alongside US marshals Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule.
Sent to a remote island asylum to investigate the baffling disappearance of a patient, Teddy finds himself unraveling a shocking truth about the place.
As you delve into the story, Teddy and Chuck navigate the spooky corridors of the institution, their curiosity piqued by the ominous atmosphere surrounding them.
Amidst the unsettling environment, Teddy’s instincts lead him down a twisted path. And as he encounters enigmatic characters and uncovers disturbing clues, doubts begin to gnaw at him.
The remote island setting amplifies the sense of isolation and tension, heightening the suspense with each passing moment.
As Teddy’s investigation deepens, he discovers that not everything is as it seems.
The asylum’s doctors and staff harbor their secrets and Teddy suspects they are involved in a sinister plot far beyond his imagination.
Martin Scorsese directs “Shutter Island,” where Leonardo DiCaprio shines with his exceptional performance. As Teddy Daniels, he mesmerizes, holding your attention and making you feel the intensity.
DiCaprio’s remarkable performance and the masterful storytelling in “Shutter Island” make it undeniably one of the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
4 The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
IMDb: 8.2/10 1.5M | Popularity: 105 | Top 250: #132 | Metascore:
Genres: Biography, Comedy, Crime
Yet another standout collaboration between DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese.
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Jordan Belfort, a charismatic and ambitious stockbroker craving wealth and extravagant living.
Based on a true story, the movie takes you on a wild ride as Jordan rises to dizzying heights of success on Wall Street.
With his relentless drive and persuasive charm, he builds an empire fueled by unscrupulous tactics and a reckless disregard for the law. But, as they say, “The higher you climb, the harder you fall.” Jordan’s empire captures the attention of the authorities, triggering an intense cat-and-mouse game.
The FBI closes in, forcing Jordan to confront the consequences of his actions and the destructive nature of his insatiable greed.
Through the lens of one of the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies, you’ll embark on a thrilling journey of excess and the profound impact it leaves behind.
3 Django Unchained (2012)
IMDb: 8.4/10 1.6M | Popularity: 292 | Top 250: #56 | Metascore:
Genres: Drama, Western
Step into the wild west alongside the clever Django in the 2012 film “Django Unchained.” Played by Jamie Foxx, Django, a freed slave turned bounty hunter, aims to rescue his wife from Candie’s (DiCaprio) clutches.
Together with Dr. King Schultz, they infiltrate Candyland, posing as buyers. Tensions rise, and Django risks everything to save his wife.
This Quentin Tarantino masterpiece showcases DiCaprio’s talent, making it one of his best movies.
Brace yourself for a thrilling adventure, explosive confrontations, and unforgettable performances.
2 The Departed (2006)
IMDb: 8.5/10 1.4M | Popularity: 171 | Top 250: #40 | Metascore:
Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Set in Boston, the story revolves around two men on opposite sides of the law.
You meet Billy Costigan, a young police officer assigned to infiltrate an Irish-American gang led by the ruthless Frank Costello.
Meanwhile, Colin Sullivan, a rising star within the police force, has secretly become a mole for Costello.
As the pressure intensifies, both individuals find themselves caught in a treacherous cat-and-mouse contest. Billy must maintain his cover while trying to gather crucial evidence to bring down Costello and his criminal empire.
At the same time, Colin works tirelessly to protect his double life, always on guard for any signs of suspicion. The lines between loyalty and betrayal blur further when Billy and Colin discover each other’s true identities. As they maneuver through the risky path, their lives connect, and the stakes rise.
Leonardo DiCaprio shines as Billy Costigan, showcasing his versatility and ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity.
1 Inception (2010)
IMDb: 8.8/10 2.4M | Popularity: 103 | Top 250: #14 | Metascore:
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Top of this ranking is the thought-provoking sci-fi masterpiece “Inception,” focused on the skilled thief Dom Cobb — played by Leonardo DiCaprio.
Dom possesses a unique skill – entering people’s dreams and extracting valuable information.
He’s considered the best in the business, sought after by powerful individuals for his unparalleled expertise. But now, he faces an unprecedented challenge—to perform the daring act of “inception,” planting an idea in someone’s mind.
Dom brings together a team of experts, each with unique skills, for this daring mission. As they dive into layers of dreams within dreams, the line between reality and illusion blurs.
They encounter mind-bending challenges, hostile projections, and an enigmatic figure known as Mal, Dom’s deceased wife, who haunts his subconscious.
Christopher Nolan‘s direction in “Inception” transports you through intricate imaginations, offering a visually stunning and exhilarating rollercoaster experience.
Join Dom and his team as they navigate a world where dreams can be manipulated, realities can be altered, and the fate of their mission—and their sanity—hangs in the balance.
Ranking #9 on our best movies of all time list and #4 on our best action movies of all time, “Inception” is a must-watch for any fan of exciting and engaging storytelling.
It’s an excellent way to draw the curtains on our countdown of the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies.
Senior Writer, BuddyTV
Professional SEO writer & editor with 8+ years of print journalism and writing experience across different platforms — blogs, website, eBooks and social media. His writing experience also cuts across industries like IT, fashion, education management, real estate, consulting and entertainment.
