Tom Hanks is a cinematic legend whose career spans over four decadesdelivering unforgettable performances in a wide range of genres—from heartwarming comedies to gripping dramas. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his workthis guide provides a complete list of Tom Hanks’ movies in order of releasealong with insights into his remarkable journey in Hollywood. Let’s dive into the films that have made Tom Hanks a household name!
The Journey of Tom Hanks: From Comedy to Oscar-Winning Performances
Tom Hanks began his career with small roles in the late 1970sbut it was his breakout in Big (1988) that launched him into stardom. Known for his relatable charm and versatilityHanks has portrayed everything from a lovable everyman to historical figuresearning two Academy Awards for Best Actor (Philadelphia and Forrest Gump). His films have grossed billions worldwideand his collaborations with directors like Steven Spielberg and Robert Zemeckis have produced cinematic masterpieces.
This blog post lists every Tom Hanks movie in chronological orderso you can explore his filmographyrevisit classicsor discover hidden gems. Whether you’re drawn to his comedic roots in Splash or his dramatic depth in Saving Private Ryanthere’s something for everyone.
Complete List of Tom Hanks Movies in Order of Release

Below is a comprehensive table of all Tom Hanks moviesordered by release yearincluding his starring and supporting roles in theatrical films. Note that this list excludes TV moviesshort filmsand uncredited cameos unless significant.
|
Year |
Movie Title |
Role |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 |
He Knows You’re Alone |
Elliot |
Supporting role |
| 1984 |
Splash |
Allen Bauer |
Breakthrough role |
| 1984 |
Bachelor Party |
Rick Gassko |
Lead role |
| 1985 |
The Man with One Red Shoe |
Richard Drew |
Lead role |
| 1985 |
Volunteers |
Lawrence Bourne III |
Lead role |
| 1986 |
The Money Pit |
Walter Fielding |
Lead role |
| 1986 |
Nothing in Common |
David Basner |
Lead role |
| 1986 |
Every Time We Say Goodbye |
David Bradley |
Lead role |
| 1987 |
Dragnet |
Pep Streebek |
Lead role |
| 1988 |
Big |
Josh Baskin |
Oscar-nominated role |
| 1988 |
Punchline |
Steven Gold |
Lead role |
| 1989 |
The ‘Burbs |
Ray Peterson |
Lead role |
| 1989 |
Turner & Hooch |
Scott Turner |
Lead role |
| 1990 |
Joe Versus the Volcano |
Joe Banks |
Lead role |
| 1990 |
The Bonfire of the Vanities |
Sherman McCoy |
Lead role |
| 1992 |
A League of Their Own |
Jimmy Dugan |
Supporting role |
| 1993 |
Sleepless in Seattle |
Sam Baldwin |
Lead role |
| 1993 |
Philadelphia |
Andrew Beckett |
Oscar win for Best Actor |
| 1994 |
Forrest Gump |
Forrest Gump |
Oscar win for Best Actor |
| 1995 |
Apollo 13 |
Jim Lovell |
Lead role |
| 1995 |
Toy Story |
Woody (voice) |
Animated film |
| 1996 |
That Thing You Do! |
Mr. White |
Supporting role; also directed |
| 1998 |
Saving Private Ryan |
Captain John Miller |
Lead role |
| 1998 |
You’ve Got Mail |
Joe Fox |
Lead role |
| 1999 |
Toy Story 2 |
Woody (voice) |
Animated film |
| 1999 |
The Green Mile |
Paul Edgecomb |
Lead role |
| 2000 |
Cast Away |
Chuck Noland |
Lead role |
| 2002 |
Road to Perdition |
Michael Sullivan |
Lead role |
| 2002 |
Catch Me If You Can |
Carl Hanratty |
Supporting role |
| 2004 |
The Terminal |
Viktor Navorski |
Lead role |
| 2004 |
The Polar Express |
Multiple Roles (voice) |
Motion capture |
| 2004 |
The Ladykillers |
Professor G.H. Dorr |
Lead role |
| 2006 |
The Da Vinci Code |
Robert Langdon |
Lead role |
| 2007 |
Charlie Wilson’s War |
Charlie Wilson |
Lead role |
| 2008 |
The Great Buck Howard |
Troy Gable |
Supporting role |
| 2009 |
Angels & Demons |
Robert Langdon |
Lead role |
| 2010 |
Toy Story 3 |
Woody (voice) |
Animated film |
| 2011 |
Larry Crowne |
Larry Crowne |
Lead role; also directed |
| 2011 |
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close |
Thomas Schell |
Supporting role |
| 2012 |
Cloud Atlas |
Multiple Roles |
Ensemble cast |
| 2013 |
Captain Phillips |
Richard Phillips |
Lead role |
| 2013 |
Saving Mr. Banks |
Walt Disney |
Lead role |
| 2015 |
Bridge of Spies |
James B. Donovan |
Lead role |
| 2016 |
A Hologram for the King |
Alan Clay |
Lead role |
| 2016 |
Sully |
Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger |
Lead role |
| 2016 |
Inferno |
Robert Langdon |
Lead role |
| 2017 |
The Circle |
Eamon Bailey |
Supporting role |
| 2017 |
The Post |
Ben Bradlee |
Lead role |
| 2019 |
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood |
Fred Rogers |
Lead role |
| 2019 |
Toy Story 4 |
Woody (voice) |
Animated film |
| 2020 |
Greyhound |
Ernest Krause |
Lead role; also wrote screenplay |
| 2020 |
News of the World |
Captain Jefferson Kidd |
Lead role |
| 2021 |
Finch |
Finch |
Lead role |
| 2022 |
Pinocchio |
Geppetto |
Live-action Disney film |
| 2022 |
Elvis |
Colonel Tom Parker |
Supporting role |
| 2023 |
Asteroid City |
Stanley Zak |
Supporting role |
| 2023 |
A Man Called Otto |
Otto Anderson |
Lead role |
| 2024 |
Here |
Richard |
Lead role |
Note: Release years are based on wide theatrical releases. Some filmslike direct-to-streaming releases (e.g.Greyhound)are included based on their premiere date.
Why Tom Hanks’ Movies Resonate with Audiences
Tom Hanks’ films are timeless because they blend humorheartand humanity. His ability to portray complex characters with authenticity—whether it’s the naive yet wise Forrest Gump or the courageous Captain Miller—makes his performances unforgettable. Movies like Toy Story and Cast Away showcase his rangefrom voice acting to carrying a film solo. Fans love revisiting his work for its emotional depth and universal themesmaking his filmography a treasure trove for movie lovers.
For those looking to binge-watchstart with early hits like Splash and Big for lighthearted funthen move to heavier dramas like Philadelphia or Saving Private Ryan. His Toy Story series is perfect for family movie nights. Whatever your moodthere’s a Tom Hanks movie for it!
5 FAQs About Tom Hanks’ Movies
1. What was Tom Hanks’ first movie?
Tom Hanks’ first movie was He Knows You’re Alone (1980)a horror film where he played a minor role as Elliot.
2. How many Oscars has Tom Hanks won?
Tom Hanks has won two Academy Awards for Best Actor: one for Philadelphia (1993) and one for Forrest Gump (1994).
3. What is Tom Hanks’ most famous movie?
Forrest Gump (1994) is often considered his most iconic filmthanks to its cultural impact and memorable quotes like “Life is like a box of chocolates.”
4. How many movies has Tom Hanks directed?
Tom Hanks has directed two feature films: That Thing You Do! (1996) and Larry Crowne (2011).
5. Is Tom Hanks still making movies?
Yes! His most recent filmHere (2024)reunites him with director Robert Zemeckisand he continues to take on diverse roles.
Conclusion
Tom Hanks’ filmography is a testament to his extraordinary talent and versatility. From his early comedic roles to his powerful dramatic performanceshe has left an indelible mark on cinema. Whether you’re watching Forrest Gump for the tenth time or discovering A Man Called Otto for the first timehis movies offer something for everyone. Use the table above to plan your next Tom Hanks movie marathon and experience the magic of one of Hollywood’s greatest stars.
What’s your favorite Tom Hanks movie? Let us know in the commentsand happy watching!